For many years the prizes have been presented by clergymen, noble lords, and university officials. This year the School broke fresh ground and invited Mr. John Coatman, C.I.E., M.A., North Regional Director of the B.B.C., to perform the ceremony.

The Chairman of the Governors, presiding, discussed the new Education Bill and its probable effects upon our old-established grammar schools. The Headmaster also referred to the White Paper and its far-reaching proposals, and expressed the hope that the valuable traditions of our grammar schools would not be lightly cast aside.

Mr. Coatman, in a genial but forceful address, spoke of the contribution made to the mother-country by the countries of the Empire. He outlined the opportunities of service which would offer themselves after the war. He hoped that the boys of Prescot Grammar School would realise the possibilities of such service and its value to the Empire and the world. Meanwhile they would have to fit themselves for such work, as there was no place in the world for the man who was second-rate, no matter whether he was scientist, doctor, or administrator.