It is with great sadness that we announce the recent death of former Withington Head of Music, Mrs Christine Barrat, known during her time here as Mrs Manning.

Mrs Barrat began teaching at Withington with her good friend Mrs Sybil Morton in 1968. She cherished musical life at the School and her skilful teaching fostered hundreds of musically talented pupils. Her expectations were high, but her gentle approach enabled her pupils to meet the standards she set. Christine was always at ease dealing with every level of musical ability, from the Junior School to Senior School Orchestra. Mrs Barrat retired in 1992, and it was reported in the School Newsletter at the time that she masterminded many musical events at Withington.

Christine was an active member of the Withington Onwards Retired Teachers Association, and attended many former staff reunions and events after she left Withington, including Founders’ Day. She will be sorely missed by her family, friends and colleagues.

Mrs Barrat passed away on 7th March. Our deepest sympathies go to Sasha Johnson-Manning, Christine’s daughter and current Withington Governor, and the rest of Mrs Barrat’s family.

For information about Christine’s funeral, on Thursday 23rd March, please contact the Development Office on 0161 249 3494 or development@wgs.org. We will include a formal obituary for Mrs Barrat in the next edition of our Withington Onwards magazine, which will be published later this year.