Clearly people could learn it at different times via BBC Schools radio broadcasts. A quick check finds it:
Summer 1950 in 'Rhythm and Melody' (at the time published in a single booklet with 'Singing Together')
Autumn 1960 in 'Rhythm and Melody' (first term it was published separately from Singing 'Together')
Spring 1964 'Singing Together'
Autumn 1984 'Singing Together'

Usually listed by BBC as "Bill Bones' Hornpipe" making it a little harder to trace.