The Anne Ward Prize

The Anne Ward prize of £250 is to be presented annually to a BGS student who has a place at university to study History to help them buy books or other materials as needed.

This prize is given in memory of Anne Ward by BGS alumna Judith Higgin, Anne's god daughter and the daughter of Jean Higgin, nee Wilkinson, whose friendship with Anne lasted more than 75 years until Anne's death, aged 88, in May 2025. 

Anne Ward (5.12.36 – 31.5.25) studied at Bury Grammar School from 1947 to 1954, graduated from the University of Reading and had a successful career working in museums across the north of England. Her first role at Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle, County Durham, saw her assisting the director Dr Frank Atkinson in collecting original items for the foundation of award-winning Beamish Museum. Originally from Prestwich, Anne lived most of her life in Shipley, Yorkshire, and was latterly Keeper at Bolling Hall, Bradford, with a particular interest in historical clothing, textiles and embroidery. A Soroptimist and churchgoer, Anne was passionate about social justice and the power of education. Her schooldays shaped her life. She kept in contact with BGS head Miss Perigo and was a loving and beloved godmother to the daughters of two schoolfriends. 

We are hugely grateful for all legacy donations which help to support the life of the School.