ALDENHAMIANA ISSUE 46 October 2018

News from the OA Society Girls at Updates from the School News and Features Business Review Obituaries and tributes

FROM THE EDITOR

When I took on the role of Editor of the OA Review, I had no idea how much I would come to love this position. Writing Aldenhamiana this magazine is a labour of love, but one No.46 October 2018 that I wouldn’t change for the world. Published by The Old Aldenhamian Society Aldenham and its students have so much , , WD6 3AJ UK to offer in so many different ways, and I Email: [email protected] have had the privilege of being in touch Web: www.oldaldenhamian.org with OAs from all over the world this year, and met many new, Tel: +44 (0)1923 858 122 fantastic people at OA events too. Aldenham’s community is one of its main strengths, and I am so lucky to be able to immerse myself in this through this magazine and the OA Society. My job as Editor of this magazine would be infinitely harder if it weren’t for my fantastic team, made up of Hugh Schermuly Contents (M1974-79), who once again has done an amazing job of designing this issue, and who gives off such an aura of grace and calm in everything he does; Sara Price (CR1987-2006) and Lindsey Kelly (neé Hall) (P1985-87), who put up with some 2 From the OA Society hideous errors from me when proofreading articles, and bring fresh, fantastic ideas to the table every issue; and the 2 From the President’s Desk wonderful ladies of the Marketing and Development and OA Office: Ann Saffery, Jackie Wilkie, and Heather Sherman. I 4 OA Day have all the encouragement and support anyone could need from you three ladies, and your hard work does not go 7 Mentoring unnoticed. Thank you all! I would also like to thank James James-Crook (M1968-72), 15 Dates for Your Diary Headmaster James Fowler and the rest of the OA Committee for their support, and particularly thank Richard Peart 16 Girls at Aldenham Feature (SHO1955-60) and Ian Luetchford (P1948-51) for their sharp eyes when proof reading this magazine before it goes to print. Finally, thanks to all of the OAs who agreed to be featured 17 From the School this year, and those who have been in touch with us since the last OA Review was published. Not only have we had some 21 Letter from the Headmaster lovely messages about the articles in the magazine, we have also received some fantastic personal stories. Thank you for 22 Exam results sharing these with us. My thanks also go to Chris Tyson (K1970-73) and his wife, June, son and daughter-in-law of Cyril 26 The Letchmore Trust Art Prizes Tyson (CR1952-87), for donating a large amount of Aldenham memorabilia to me and the OA and Development Office this year. The collection had in it over 30 copies of The Aldenhamian, and information about OAFC and Camp Aldenham too, which 24 News and features we will be using in articles in next year’s OA Review. I hope you enjoy this copy of the OA Review. It has been a 32 OAs & Business Feature delight to write, and we would love to hear from you with your thoughts on Issue 46. You can contact us at oas@aldenham. 43 WWI 100 years On com, or reach me directly at [email protected]. Please get in touch, I love hearing from you! Have a fantastic year, and I look forward to meeting many of 49 Obituaries and tributes you at upcoming OA Society events in the not so distant future. 49 List of Deaths Lydia Chapman 50 Obituaries and tributes Editor, OA Review OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIETY

The President’s Message This year marks the end of the First World War on 11 November, 100 years exactly to the day, with a Service of Remembrance for the Aldenham community being OA Society held at the War Memorial in . pin badge

ne hundred and sixty three Old the OA archives producing so far a list Aldenhamians and members of of over 200 names of those who have OStaff gave their lives for our excelled in their chosen field of tomorrow. Many were very young having expertise.

From the OA Society the OA From either just left Aldenham or graduated This October will mark sixty years from university. Eleven families suffered since the School Chapel was completed the double tragedy of losing two sons. and there are bronze plaques on the Whilst attending Visitation Day in walls commemorating some of those June and meeting students on the cusp OAs and teaching staff who lost their of leaving Aldenham and embarking on lives during WW1. How those their life journey as OAs, I was reminded unfortunate souls must marvel at the of the numerous opportunities that lie progress of both the School and the OA ahead for them. The OA Mentoring Society today. countries around the world. Earlier this scheme comprising over 50 OA mentors, Change is inevitable and, since being year, GDPR proved an ideal opportunity working closely with the School, is there elected as OA President some eighteen to do just that. to help and guide existing students and months ago, I have instigated some I hope you will have noticed the new OAs in their chosen career path. changes including the improvement of subtle changes to this year’s OA Review A dedicated article features in this issue the OA website; moving the OA Annual and I applaud and acknowledge the of the OA Review. Dinner to a Saturday accompanied at the commitment of its Editor, Lydia I offer my thanks to Vice President pre-Dinner reception by a selection of Chapman (P2010-12) and the talents John Edwards (B1946-51) and Hon. live music performed by current of graphic designer, Hugh Schermuly Secretary Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58), students, OAs and members of the (M1974-79) plus their team of proof for their unstinting work in compiling a School; recruiting younger OAs to the readers in producing such an excellent list of notable OAs which has involved Committee and connecting with many and newsworthy edition. painstaking research trawling through of the current 4,700 OAs in over 150 The OA Society’s close and supportive relationship with the School continues and, in line with the ethos of past OA COMMITTEE MEMBERS Presidents, every event involving both the OA Society and the School is James James-Crook President Neil Sutherland OBE DL Vice President approached with the same objectives – Derick Burlingham Johnson Vice President to foster close alumni relations and to John Edwards TD JP Vice President provide mutual support for various John Ashley Cockett Vice President activities. Voluntary subscriptions Ian Luetchford Vice President continue on a regular basis and the David Ronald Male CBE Vice President Peter John Purton OBE Vice President OA Society kitty is largely made up of Richard Wood Vice President subscriptions from both new and Frank Rogers Hon. Secretary existing OAs plus voluntary donations Richard Peart Hon. Treasurer out of which salaries are paid for the Chris Stern OA Dinner running of the OA office; the production Lydia Chapman Editor, OA Review David Hayes Mentoring Scheme of the annual OA Review and its postage Clare Yeabsley née McCarty Committee Member costs, though more OAs are now opting James Fowler Headmaster to receive an electronic version; the Peter William Boorman Headmaster 1974-83 updating of the website and donations Michael Higginbottom JP Headmaster 1983-94 to OA sports clubs. After that, there’s not Stephen Robert Borthwick Headmaster 1994-2000 Richard Harman Headmaster 2000-2006 much left with the balance being invested. Emma Murray Assistant Head, Co-curricular Despite uncertainty in the world, the OA Sixth Form & External Affairs Society’s finances are sound. Ann Saffery Development & OA Manager Over the last 12 months, having Jackie Wilkie Development & OA Assistant attended funerals for a number of OAs, it has made me realise that, as part of the

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OA Society, this can equate to a lifelong connection with Aldenham and we are

Searching for Aldenham From the OA Society a close knit community. I’m sure you all have different memories of the School. Whilst Aldenham is now quite different Treasure from my day fifty years ago as a full time boarder, the essence of the School The Aldenham Archive is a treasure trove of photographs, School remains the same. magazines, historical papers and other memorabilia. I look forward to welcoming many of you at this year’s Annual OA Dinner on ver the last few years the website using a unique member log-in Saturday 10 November at the School. Aldenham Annual Fund and then clicking on the Digital Archive This is always a popular and enjoyable Ocampaign has raised money to tab. Members of the public who enquire event and a great opportunity to catch digitise much of the material that is about family members are given up with other OAs of all ages. currently in cupboards and boxes at the temporary access for personal research. I would like to thank Ann Saffery and School. As a result a digital archive, The digital archive will continue to Jackie Wilkie for their ongoing hard work linked to a fully searchable website, has grow and in time perhaps an Aldenham and to thank the men and women of the been created. This resource is used for School Museum will develop as part of OA Committee for their focused educational purposes as well as research this project, to house original artefacts dedication given on a voluntary basis. and interest from the wider community. and be available for students and I very much look forward to It may be accessed via the OA Society visitors to enjoy. connecting with you either electronically or in person at a forthcoming OA event. As we go to print, I wish to pay tribute to an eminent OA. Field Marshal The Lord Vincent of Coleshill, GBE KCB DSO, Richard Frederick Vincent (SHE1945-50) who sadly passed away on 8 September was one of the most distinguished OAs. After serving with British Army of the Rhine, he served with the Commonwealth Brigade in Malaysia during the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation. He commanded 12th Light Air Defence Regiment in during the Troubles, for which he was awarded the DSO, and later commanded 19th Airportable Brigade. He went on to be Vice-Chief of the 1917 Praeposters. (Seated front centre) Dr A H Cooke (Headmaster 1900-20) Defence Staff in the late 1980s and then Chief of the Defence Staff in the aftermath of the Gulf War. He subsequently became Chair of the Military Committee of NATO in the Is it time to renew your mid-1990s. Created a life peer in the 1996 OA subscription? Birthday Honours, Lord Vincent retired from the House of Lords in 2016. ew membership subscription annum although the Society would Chancellor of Cranfield University; an arrangements were unanimously welcome larger amounts. inspirational Past President of the OA Napproved at the Society’s AGM Society; Emeritus Governor of Aldenham in 2002 to enable the Society to provide If you left School in Summer 1997 School. Details of a Memorial Service will members with an improved service, in or before, you are invited to start be available on the OA website in due particular expansion and improvement paying a voluntary annual course. On behalf of the OA Society, I offer of the OA website. subscription to the Society. my sincere condolences to all his family. All existing Life Members who left With my best wishes the School twenty years ago or more Should you wish to start a voluntary James James-Crook (M1968-72) are invited to pay a voluntary annual annual subscription, please arrange President, OA Society subscription to the Society. either online or by contacting the [email protected] An appropriate sum would be £10 per Development and OA Office.

3 OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIETY OA Day KENNEDY’S AND MARTINEAU’S GAUDY

On Sunday 10th June 2018, over 100 people gathered in the a sermon by OA Reverend Matthew glorious sunshine for the annual OA Day, which this year was a Lawson (K1981-86). Guests sang lustily Kennedy’s and Martineau’s Gaudy, celebrating 25 years since the throughout the service, and were even invited to sing the Aldenham School opening of Martineau’s House, which is now attached to Kennedy’s. Song, which for some brought back

From the OA Society the OA From happy memories, and for others was uests were welcomed with ones. Afterwards, OAs were invited a first time. refreshments in The Wells Centre, to take a look around Kennedy’s and OAs were then invited back to Ghosted by the Headmaster, Martineau’s, before enjoying a Martineau’s, where a drinks reception James Fowler, where they were able to Thanksgiving Service, given by Reverend was held by Housemaster of Kennedy’s reunite with old friends, and make new Jos Perris (CR2017-Present), and Richard Pineo (CR2016-Present), and

Jason Vallint (K1984-89) and Austin Amanda Ingram, Tim Standbrook (K1976-81), Sofia Navelgas & David Ingram (K1976-81) Galvin (CR1970-2006)

Front: Rishi Nimal-Raj (K2004-11), Marcus Selvadurai (K2004-11), Sally & John Gillman (K1969-73) Adam Bloom (K2004-09) & Jo Pineo

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Housemistress of Martineau’s Louise Gall chicken or vegetable curry, served with A wonderful day was enjoyed by all who (CR2004-Present). Here, guests had the homemade accompaniments, including gathered there, and it was so lovely to chance to mingle and chat with OAs of bhajis, pakoras, poppadoms and raita, see such a range of ages in attendance From the OA Society all ages and eras at Aldenham, before followed by strawberries, cream and this year, from Geoffrey Prall (SHE1936- James Fowler and President of the OA shortbread. Guests then moved to the 40), aged 95, to Robert Curati-Alasonatti Society, James James-Crook (M1968-72) Cricket Pavilion, where they were able to (K2003-12), aged 21. We look forward to spoke on the School’s upcoming plans, enjoy coffee, chocolates and scones seeing many of you again next year. and gave updates on the OA Society. whilst watching the annual John Dewes OAs then headed to a delicious lunch of Cricket Match in the summer sunshine.

Liz & Doug Bonn (SHE1964-69), John Edwards TD JP (B1946-51 Matthew Lawson (K1981-86), James Goodwin (K1980-85) & VP OA Society) & Trevor Barton (K1971-75 & Chairman & Graeme Holt (K1981-86) of Governors)

Paul Kendall (K1976-81), Phil Lyndon (K1976-81), Sam Stenton Miranda Kelly (née Stewart) (P1988-90), Clare Yeabsley (née & Chris Cernuschi (K1998-2005) McCarty) (K1988-90) & Tanya Sweeting (née Webb) (K1988-90)

Steve Edwards (K1985-90) & Adrian Timmins (K1986-90) John Dewes Cricket Match

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Regional Lunch, Minchinhampton

43 guests gathered at The Old Lodge, Minchinhampton, near Stroud, for a very enjoyable lunch on Wednesday 25th April 2018.

Sue Hall, Nick Hall (K1962-67), Steve Goodwin (SHE1963-69), Tony Scott (SHE1963-68), Bob he venue was recommended victory by the U15 team winning Kershaw (K1964-67) & Mary Kershaw by Nick Hall (K1962-67), and Schools Football From the OA Society the OA From Twas perfect for the occasion. Association Cup in March of this year; the Set in the heart of Minchinhampton golf team playing in the Independent Clockwise from front left: Diane Hayes, Common, the restaurant had unrivalled Schools Golf Association Match play final Philip Chippindale (SHE1963-66), Emma views of the Cotswolds, overlooking in April; and a recent weekend hosted by Murray (CR2017-Present), David Hayes the five valleys. Aldenham when Sixth Form students (SHO1963-68), Simon Freeman The party started at 12 noon with cared for and entertained a group of (SHO1961-66) & Angela Maynard drinks on arrival, and an hour to meet severely disabled children. He together; for some it was the first time highlighted the excellent outcome of in many years. A tasty three course lunch the latest ISI Inspection, which took was accompanied by much laughter and place in December 2017, and also a interaction between friends, sharing report in the Good Schools Guide which memories and personal stories. describes our current pupils as among The Headmaster addressed the crowd the happiest they have met. and updated them on life at Aldenham After lunch there was still more today. He gave a clear picture of how the convivial chatter before most guests School continues to thrive and provide departed, and some prepared for an an environment that the current overnight stay at the venue. Great Richard Blake (M1949-53) John Edwards (B1946-51 & Vice President, OA Society) students obviously enjoy. The success enjoyment was had by all, and another & Alan Oliver (SHO1944-49) stories he shared included an historic regional luncheon will be held next year.

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Richard Platt Society From the OA Society Members of the Richard Platt Society have all kindly left a gift in their Will to the School.

Peter was only at Aldenham for three enable it to offer academic, cultural and terms and had many wonderful sporting facilities that will attract the memories including an Easter holiday quality of student that is synonymous trip to France in a 1929 Taxi. with Aldenham. The teacher in charge was Geoffrey Bolt (CR1947-65). Peter said about his time If you would like more information at Aldenham: “That was the wildest year please contact the Development of my young life. Thanks Aldenham!” Manager, Ann Saffery Richard Platt himself left orders in his Will Aldenham School, Elstree for the establishment of the School to Hertfordshire A gift was received in July 2018 from acknowledge his own fortune. Whatever WD6 3AJ Peter Shoup (SHE1950-51), via a grant the reason and whatever the gift, a from the British Schools and Universities commitment of this sort will provide the Tel: 01923 851612 Foundation in the USA. As an American, School with a secure Bursaries Fund and Email: [email protected]

The OA Mentoring Review 2018 It has been another busy year in the world of OA Mentoring with several exciting new initiatives in the pipeline.

e have had a very will gladly become involved with talks to use your own work/life experiences to encouraging response from and interactive sessions at the School. help others in their chosen careers or in Wa number of young OAs We are still looking for many more making career decisions. who have volunteered to become young OAs who would be willing to Update your personal profile, mentors and have helped several Sixth become mentors so please do contact including further education and Form students and recent school leavers Ann Saffery in the School Office employment details via the OA website: by giving one to one support as well ([email protected]) if you would like www.oldaldenhamian.org. as careers talks and work experience guidance. We are now working more closely with the School Careers Development Office – Emma Murray (CR2017-Present) and Aysen Tekin (CR2017-Present) – to help create new mentoring opportunities in conjunction with careers development programmes and we have designed an OA Mentoring leaflet which is enclosed with this magazine. The mentor/mentee relationship can be long lasting or brief according to the needs and wishes of the mentee. Mentors will help with basics such as interview techniques and CV drafting and will provide ongoing support and guidance. Simon Frais (P2001-06) & Isaac Okeowo (L20013-17) We cover a wide range of careers and

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OA Annual Dinner 2017 On the 25th November 2017, Aldenham School had the pleasure of welcoming back 85 guests for the annual Old Aldenhamian Society Dinner.

Grace was said by John Edwards The Principal Guest Speaker was (B1949-51). Guests enjoyed the three Headmaster James Fowler, who talked course meal, as judged by the clean of the changes at Aldenham since

From the OA Society the OA From plates and happy faces afterwards. Geoffrey Prall was born in 1922, and he Guests were then invited to wish invited Geoffrey to speak about his Geoffrey Prall a very happy birthday, experience of School, which captivated when he was presented with a gift from all who heard it. Boys, he said, had just the School by then Head Girl Phoebe one bath a week, wore grey woollen Altman (P & R2011-17). socks that needed to be darned

Geoffrey Prall (SHE1936-40) with his birthday cake

his was a very special occasion, particularly for one guest, TGeoffrey Prall (SHE1936-40), who celebrated his 95th birthday on the day of the dinner. He celebrated by bringing a large cake, adorned with the Aldenham School crest, to share Sara and Iain Wilson-Soppitt (P1958-61) with everyone. There was a change to the pre-dinner entertainment this year, with a short concert being held in The Wells Centre, featuring music to please all tastes. Guests were entertained with drinks and music including performances of songs by Queen and Beethoven on the electric guitar, as performed by three current students of the School, as well as singing performances from OAs Alice Erman (P2005-12) and Vicki Garson (P2010-12). The concert ended with a few Christmas songs, which required audience participation, and got everyone into the mood for an evening of fun and enjoyment. The Dining Hall was bedecked in McGill’s colours, at the request of our new President of the OA Society, James John Edwards (B1946-51, Vice President of the OA Society) and Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58, Honorary Secretary of the OA Committee) James-Crook (M1968-72). The School

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regularly, and he didn’t see his father for two years after being dropped at School at the age of just 13. The guests were in From the OA Society awe of Geoffrey’s experiences, and entertained by his story of being selected to play the part of Portia in a School production of The Merchant of Venice, and then bumping into the Master who had given him that part in Australia, when he was in the Navy during the war. Geoffrey finished his speech by commending the Headmaster and the Governors in all that they have done to help make Aldenham School the place it is today. David Hayes (SHO1963-68), Charles Tubbs (SHE1969-73), Neil Sutherland (1966-70) and Lin Sutherland James James-Crook then offered his congratulations to Andrew Rennie (M2006-13), who became Regional Fives Champion, the first OA to have gained this title, as well as thanking members of the OA Golf Society and the newly formed OA Choir for attending in such good numbers. 2017’s OA Dinner was another great success, and the date is set for Saturday 10 November for the 2018 gathering. If you would like to attend then please get in touch with us. We look forward to seeing you there!

Andrew Rennie (M2006-13) with his trophies New OA OA Website Choir Do you like to sing? Did you Coming know that Aldenham has an OA Choir? f you are looking for a sociable, Soon! fun choir experience, with other Imembers of our wider Aldenham fter a discussion in January this community, then why not get in touch year, the OA Society website with the OA Choir at oachoir@outlook. A(www.oldaldenhamian.org) is com. The choir, conducted by ex-Head currently undergoing a revamp, and a of Music at Aldenham School John new website, in keeping with the current Wyatt (CR1994-2016), intends to Aldenham School website, will be perform several times throughout the launched in the coming months. Keep year, singing a range of different music. your eyes peeled! Get in touch today!

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Old Aldenhamian Lodge After leaving Aldenham, Simon Mitchell (K1970-73) embarked upon an electronic engineering apprenticeship and is currently responsible for business development of crowdsourcing business intelligence solutions for mobile operators.

imon joined the Old Aldenhamian Q3: Why did you join? business of the Lodge is undertaken, Lodge in 1999 having seen a small The Lodge meets four times a year and is which includes ceremonies, updates on article in the Aldenhamiana, and, an opportunity to be part of a charitable the members, charitable news and a

From the OA Society the OA From S having been a member of the Lodge for organisation that makes a significant review of initiatives for the good of the 17 years, was appointed Secretary in impact to the community at a local and Lodge and masonic charitable 2018. A keen supporter of the OA national level. The Lodge, being a objectives. Afterwards, we dine at the Society, Simon frequently attends OA member of the Public School Lodges’ RAF Club, Piccadilly with PSLC guests. Society events, including this year’s Council (PSLC) community, affords an OA Day, Kennedy’s Gaudy, reuniting with opportunity to meet sister schools and Q6: How can one find out more about many of his peers from the early 1970s. establish new friendships. the Lodge? There are a number of white table dining Q1: How old is the Old Aldenhamian Q4: Tell me about the PSLC community? events where non-masons who are Lodge (OAL4884)? In 1909, the Standing Committee of the friends, wives, partners and so on are The OAL4884 is the oldest OA society Public School Lodges was founded by especially welcome. This is an group, having been consecrated on the the Lodges of Westminster, opportunity to enjoy a social evening 15th December 1926. It was sponsored Charterhouse, Cheltenham, Sherborne with fine dining and to meet the into Freemasonry by the Old Brightonian and Clifton to promote and disseminate members of the Lodge. More details can Lodge and later on into the Public Public School Freemasonry. be found at www.oldaldenhamian.org/ Schools Lodge Council (PSLC) by the The title of Public School Lodges’ OAFreeMason. Old Tauntonians. Council was adopted in 1936. There are 35 Lodges represented on the Council Q7: What activities are associated Old Aldenhamian Lodge that include sister school names such as with the PSLC? Harrow, Rugby, Stowe, and Uppingham. The highlight of the PSLC year is the The Council has funds at its disposal for PSLC Festival, hosted by a sister school. Benevolent and Scholarship purposes. These events are very well supported and enjoyed by non-members who are Q5: What happens in a typical regular attendees. The PSLC 2018 Festival meeting? was hosted at Clifton College, with a The Lodge meetings are held four times trench warfare theme noting this as the a year in London during which the centenary of the end of the Great War

No. 4884 (Consecrated 15th December 1926) Grand Patron of the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution

Q2: Who is eligible? The Lodge was established primarily for the benefit of Old Aldenhamians – past scholars of Aldenham School – Masters and Governors past and present, and any other persons who have rendered special service to, or are intimately associated with Aldenham School and/ or the Old Aldenhamian Lodge and are Lodge members supported by visitors from Old Rugbian, Old Salopian (Shrewsbury School) and Old Westminster Lodge at our June 2018 meeting recommended by the Lodge committee.

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Women Freemasons (OWF), that are for women only. Much like the WI and the

Honorary From the OA Society Round Table, the United Grand Lodge of (UGLE) has chosen to keep membership in line with tradition and OAs personal choice by our membership This year the OA Society made five staff noting the by-laws of the Old members of Aldenham Honorary OAs. Aldenhamian Lodge fall under the Charlotte Martin (CR2012-18), Head of constitution of the UGLE. Drama; Flora Richards, teacher of Religious Studies; Alexis Shead, Head of Q10: What positive impact has Science; Alex Smith (CR2012-18); and Freemasonry had on society? Kate Watts (CR1992-2017), who was We are one of the biggest charitable guest speaker during the Chapel Service givers in the country, contributing over at last year’s OA Day. Kate, who retired £33 million every year to charitable last year, and her husband David Watts causes. Kindness has always been a core (CR1991-2017), have both spent a principle of Freemasonry. Individuals significant portion of their careers at give time and money to help others, Aldenham. whether locally, nationally or globally. It may be realising a dream for a child, caring for older people, volunteering on a local community project, making OAL4884 Worshipful Master Ash Gorecia donations to other UK charities or (P1998-2004) and Mrs Gorecia upon responding to an international disaster arrival at Clifton School for the PSLC2018 appeal. As well as our central charity, the Festival paying their respects to Field Masonic Charitable Foundation, Marshal Haig. additional support is constantly given to thousands of local and national charities and Field Marshal Douglas Haig, who through individual members, Lodges was an old boy of Clifton. During chapel, and Provinces. Beneficiaries are there was a rousing speech by an effectively split between Masonic and eminent WW1 historian who spoke non-Masonic charities. about the public schools CCF contribution to the front line officer Q11: What are your plans for the corps, leading their men over the top OAL4884? Platt having a strong sense of duty and We are fortunate to have a healthy age service imbued in them from their time and demographic spread in the Lodge at the school. and are looking to promote more visitor Revisited: activity between our meetings in Q8: What takes place between supporting sister PSLC schools just as 40s and meetings? we benefit from their support at our In short a lot of preparation for the next meetings. I am delighted with our 50s meeting but also supporting meetings at membership who represent the School local provincial Lodges and sister schools. with honours within the PSLC Calling OAs at Aldenham I have always been a keen student of history community and the strong committee during the 1940s and 1950s! so was delighted to attend a meeting at teamwork without which we could not Cholmeley Lodge (Highgate School), function. There has been a reported who dine in the Great Hall at St Barts surge in new joiners within the PSLC ollowing on from the success of Hospital, and Westminster Lodge, who sister school community and the Old the first edition of Platt Revisited dine in a room annexed to Westminster Aldenhamian Lodge would be delighted F20s and 30s, the OA Society has Abbey, where Edward III and his eldest to receive enquiries related to agreed to run a second edition: Platt son, the Black Prince, held court. membership, masons looking to visit and Revisited 40s and 50s. white table events to include guests that If you would like to have your School Q9: Are women allowed to join are not masons. anecdotes and memories recorded in Freemasonry? this edition, please get in touch with the Yes – there are two Grand Lodges, Simon Mitchell (K1970-73) OA Society: [email protected]. We The Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Old Aldenhamian Lodge 4884, Secretary look forward to hearing your favourite Freemasons (HFAF) and The Order of Email: [email protected] stories from School!

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Old Aldenhamian Golfing Society

HALFORD HEWITT 2018 (M1989-94) who re-joined the squad had swung and they lost at the 17th. So Thursday 5th April 2018 after a few years’ absence. once again, just managed (1st Round) v Berkhamsted at Royal Cinque James Sturridge and Stephen Kendall to beat us but we certainly gave them a Ports, Deal had a comfortable win but our 3rd and real fright. Next time, I feel sure we will Result: Lost 1½ – 3½ 4th pairs came up against some stern get our revenge! Team: opposition and eventually had to accept JT Surridge & SMR Kendall Won a negative win. Our 5th pair, Shon Friday 6th April 2018 WJ Kirby & DM Andrews Halved Williams (M1975-80) and Adam (Plate 1st Round) – OAGS v Felsted at BP Thrussell & JNB Wells Lost Thrussell (B1992-97), were 3 up after 9 Princes, Sandwich

From the OA Society the OA From JMB Clemow & OE Baker Lost holes and were odds on favourites for a Result: Lost ½ – 2½ SGO Williams & AJ Thrussell Lost win so it seemed that overall victory Team: would depend on the outcome of a JT Surridge & NJM Corbett Lost This year, we were again drawn against superb match involving our 2nd pair, DM Andrews & O Baker Halved Berkhamsted, our arch Hertfordshire Dan Andrews (B2000-07) and Will Kirby SGO Williams & AJ Thrussell Lost rivals. Despite being without Robert (L2006-11). It was extremely close with Alter (B1988-91), David Rawlinson Berkhamsted going 1 up and Aldenham It is always difficult having to pick oneself (B1988-93) , Joel Bloomfield (SH&L1987- then getting it back to all square with up from the disappointment of the 92) and Jon Stott (L1994-99), we still had some fantastic golf, particularly at the previous day’s defeat. We came up an impressive team with two new 14th and 17th holes. All the OA against a good Felsted side in the 1st members. Oli Baker (K2011-16) , who spectators – including OAGS President round of the Plate – they reached the only recently left Aldenham, is a talented Ian Wilson-Soppitt (P1958-61) and OAS quarter finals and were knocked out by golfer and we also welcomed Stephen President, James James-Crook (M1968- Edinburgh Accies. Well done everyone, Kendall (K1978-81) who left school a 72) – watched Dan and Will halve the Aldenham was well represented. little earlier than Oli but is also a great 18th and 19th holes. However, after golfer and won his first ever match in the driving from the 20th tee, news began to Halford Hewitt. A big welcome to them come in that Shon and Adam had not and to Jason Clemow (K1985-90), Jamie been able to hold on to their lead and, as Ian Eggleden Wells (M1990-95) and Nick Corbett so often happens in golf, the pendulum Hon Secretary OAGS April 2018 OA Golf Tour to France

n October 2017, the OAGS competed in France, playing the two Icourses in Omaha Beach and Caen. The team, consisting of 11 OA golfers including 85 year-old Robert Buckley (P1946-50), played at Hayling Island before setting off for France from Portsmouth for their 22nd Tour since the first OAGS Tour was arranged by Bob Coombes (SHE1944-47) in 1995. The team performed exceedingly well, with Neil Melvill (K1965-70) and Mark Weatherhead (M1954-57) winning the Prevost Salver on the final day of the competition, with a score of 37 points. Congratulations to all who took part.

The OAGS enjoying dinner in France during the tour

12 OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIETY

THE GL MELLIN couldn’t get the second point we needed. The Peter Burles Plate (Over 65s) TOURNAMENT 2018 It was a wonderful week and we did 12 July 1st Round v Loretto at West Hill It could have been us! really well. My thanks to the players for all Result: Won 1½ – ½ From the OA Society This was a year when we might have their sterling efforts in maintaining and Team: reached the Final of all 3 age categories enhancing the reputation of our great RJ Morris & ND Melvill Halved but somehow the final putts just would School. PJ Easby & IR Eggleden Won 3&2 not fall in the hole. Hanc Aldenham! Roger Cooke (B1952-56) and Jeremy Ian Eggleden 13 July Semi Final v Felsted at West Hill Irwin (SHO1954-58), as defending Hon Secretary OAGS Result: Lost ½ – 1½ champions of the Bunny Millard Salver Team: (for players over age 75), reached the Here are the individual results. RJ Morris & ND Melvill Lost 1 down final again. They took the match against The Bunny Millard Salver (Over 75s) PJ Easby & IR Eggleden Halved Downside to the 18th hole but just 12 July at West Hill missed out on what would have been Result: Qualified 2nd for Semi-Final with The GL Mellin Salver (Over 55s) another famous victory. 24 points 13 July 1st Round v Lancing at West Hill In the Peter Burles Salver (for players Team: RRWB Cooke & JJ Irwin Result: Won 2 – 1 over age 65) we reached the Semi Final Team: of the Plate competition and narrowly 13 July Semi-Final v Felsted at West Hill RD Hall & I Dowdeswell Lost lost to Felsted with both matches going Result: Won 2 – 1 JDL Yule & PH Yule Won to the 18th hole. In fact, all 6 matches SC Lewis & I Wilson-Soppitt Won went to the 18th apart from one which 14 July Final v Downside at West Hill (at 21st hole) we won at the 16th hole. Result: Lost 1 down In the Mellin Salver (for players over 13 July 2nd Round v Haileybury at West Hill age 55) we won a memorable 1st Round The Peter Burles Salver (Over 65s) Result: Lost 1 – 2 match against Lancing with Steve Lewis 12 July 1st Round v Lancing at West Hill Team: (B1970-75) and Ian Wilson-Soppitt Result: Lost ½ – 1½ RD Hall & I Dowdeswell Lost (P1958-61), our President, winning at the Team: JDL Yule & PH Yule Won 21st hole. We had to face Haileybury in the RJ Morris & ND Melvill Halved SC Lewis & FC Simeons Lost 2nd Round and although the Yule brothers, PJ Easby & IR Eggleden Lost 1 down Paul Yule (SHE1969-74) and John Yule (SHE1966-71), won their match (after winning in the 1st Round as well), we just The Aldeburgh Mini-Tour 2018

hanks to Nick Holt’s (B1955-59) foursome matches set off. To nobody’s Here are the individual results. efficient organisation, not to astonishment, there were winners Tmention his local influence as a and losers (see below) but Paul Yule and Tuesday member of Aldeburgh Golf Club, nine Neil Melvill were the only players to win PH Yule + CJ Thwaites OA golfers met on a glorious sunny on both days so many congratulations beat Tuesday at noon. After a light(ish) to them. I Wilson-Soppitt + PV Bailey lunch, two foursome matches set off We finished our mini-tour with a to face the challenge of the linksy two-course lunch in the beautifully ND Melvill + RJ Buckley Aldeburgh course with its rather refurbished clubhouse. This gave us the beat unfriendly gorse but with lovely views strength to face the journey home to DWS Hayes + IR Eggleden of the Alde river estuary. various parts of the country such as We all met up in the evening at the Worcestershire, Norfolk and London or Wednesday Wentworth Hotel where we dined well around the M25 to Hertfordshire, PH Yule + IR Eggleden and set about severely depleting their Middlesex, Surrey and Sussex. Everyone beat stock of Chablis before retiring to a agreed that it had been a first class Tour. I Wilson-Soppitt + RJ Buckley comfortable B&B owned by another Thanks to Nick and Hanc Aldenham! Aldeburgh member. ND Melvill + NO Holt Wednesday morning was cooler beat with a fresh sea breeze – welcomed by DWS Hayes + CJ Thwaites some but not by those with a slice, Ian Eggleden controlled or otherwise – and two more Hon Secretary OAGS

13 OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIETY

Old Aldenhamian Football Club Both the OAFC teams have been very inconsistent this year. The first team epitomised this towards the end of the season with some great results against very strong opposition like Old Harrovians, but equally have shown some incredibly lacklustre displays, like the match against Old Bradfieldians.

he 1st team did finish strongly A hard earned 1-1 draw against Old Thanks to the OAFC Committee, who

From the OA Society the OA From though with a double header Salopians in south west London, with work hard to make sure the club Tvictory over Old Wellingtonians a 49-year-old Nick Baker (K1982-87) functions and runs well to enable the and six points to end the season in a temporarily coming out of retirement OA footballers to play their matches respectable middle of the table position. to play centre forward, was a particular every week. A special thanks to Patrick The next challenge for Sam Kaye highlight. Two victories over Old Harding (L1997-2002), who, on top of (P2001-08) will be how he can take the Sennockians towards the end of the being the Vice Chairman on the OAFC team from being a mid-table team to season meant the 2nd team ended Committee, also serves as the Arthurian challenging for promotion at the top. the season on a high. League Committee Secretary. In his first (and last) season as 2nd Recruitment has been good again I’d like to take this opportunity to say team captain, Will Collier (P & B2003-10) and a large thank you has to go to thanks once again to the Headmaster, led the 2nd team well. Last season, Sam Pennycook (CR2009-Present) for the OA Society and the school Division 3 was arguably the toughest in his fantastic support liaising between groundsmen for all the vital support they the Arthurian League and, after a very the OAFC and the schoolboys, even give the club through the season. It is rocky start where the team didn’t win a acting as a taxi service for them in greatly appreciated by all the members game up until November, the 2nd team one match in West London! I am of the OAFC. then went eight games unbeaten. delighted that Sam has agreed to They went from being probable become School Liaison Officer for the Martyn Berg relegation candidates to surviving OAFC and I am sure he will be a valuable Chairman and simultaneously relegating Old asset to the schoolboys and the club Old Aldenhamian Football Club Haberdashers, which was a nice bonus. in this role. Est. 1905

OLD ALDENHAMIAN FOOTBALL RESULTS

The Arthurian League 28-Apr-18 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Wellingtonians 1 21-Apr-18 Division 1 Old Wellingtonians 0 Old Aldenhamians I 1 07-Apr-18 Division 1 Old Bradfieldians 7 Old Aldenhamians I 1 10-Mar-18 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Harrovians 1 03-Feb-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 3 Old Brentwoods 7 27-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Reptonians 6 Old Aldenhamians I 1 20-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Bradfieldians 8 13-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Malvernians 2 Old Aldenhamians I 2 06-Jan-18 Division 1 Old Cholmeleians 5 Old Aldenhamians I 0 02-Dec-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 4 Old Berkhamstedians 3 25-Nov-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 2 Old Cholmeleians 2 18-Nov-17 Division 1 Old Berkhamstedians 3 Old Aldenhamians I 0 04-Nov-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 3 Old Malvernians 1 07-Oct-17 Division 1 Old Harrovians 7 Old Aldenhamians I 0 23-Sep-17 Division 1 Old Brentwoods 7 Old Aldenhamians I 1 09-Sep-17 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 4 Old Reptonians 1

14 OA REVIEW | FROM THE OA SOCIETY

Fives: Heath Tournament From the OA Society

n Sunday 10th June, OA Day, But the Heath Tournament is not easy semi-final win, and they continued their the Fives Heath Tournament to win. The draw is random, and the hard hitting attacking game. The match Otook place at Aldenham School, players are unlikely to be paired with could have run away from Emily and with many familiar faces taking part. The players that they have regularly Graham, giving a disappointingly starting lineup included 10 Aldenhamians partnered. The need to adapt to and fit one-sided final, but they dug in and and 14 invited guest players. with the strengths and weaknesses of managed to slowly claw their way back At 2pm the courts were full, the sun your partner is vital and all in 25 into contention with a combination of shining, and the BBQ already in place. competitive minutes. consistently good cutting and return of The general bonhomie was palpable and By the second round, the favourites cut to reach 8-8. The next point proved everyone was ready for an afternoon of had fallen away at a surprising rate, and vital and after Jack hit a back court shot exercise and friendly competition. The moving into contention were Emily just out, Emily and Graham moved into traditional format was retained: each pair Scones and Graham Pulsford (M1971- the lead for the first time. From this played three matches of 25 minutes 75), Andrew Rennie (M2006-13) and moment, their concentration never using normal game scoring, and the pair Jack Travers (CR2015-Present), and wavered, and they kept the rallies going with the most points in total over the Karren Hird and Carl Rennie. and the pressure on their opponents. 25 minutes was the winner. The two The best of the semi-finals saw the Emily’s all court game proved to be unbeaten pairs then contested a annual ‘Battle of the Brothers’, with Karren impressively consistent with few – if any 25-minute final as the BBQ warmed up. Hird and Carl Rennie against the hard- – unforced errors and the Highgate/ In an open draw, the ‘top four’ players hitting Andrew Rennie and Jack Travers. Aldenham pair had opened a 5-point were kept apart, and this produced The latter pair took an early lead and the winning margin at the final whistle. some intriguing parings. Initial bookies sheer power of their play was enough to The James Fredenham Trophy was favourites were Rubel Mallik (B1996- secure a four-point win over their tiring aptly presented by James Fredenham 2003) and Michael MacGeogh, and in opponents and a well-earned victory. to the winners, who were delighted, close second would be the winner of the The final between Andrew Rennie but exhausted. This year’s winners’ shirt first-round tussle between Nirval Patel and Jack Travers, and Emily Scones and was mid blue. (P1991-92) and Paul Kendall (K1976-81), Graham Pulsford was watched by all Our thanks to the School for and Chris Austin and Neil Margerison. competitors and swelled by OAs preparing the courts and arranging the Charlotta Cooley and Darshan Patel attending OA Day, who warmly BBQ equipment, and to Andrew Fraser (R&K2006-12), Gareth Hoskins and Tim applauded some high-quality play by (Bursar 1994-2016) for his work as Pemberton, and Karren Hird and Carl both pairs. It was clear from the start that Tournament Scribe! Rennie (M2003-10) were all in with a Andrew and Jack were not going to realistic chance of winning. change tactics after their excellent Written by Graham Pulsford (M1971-75)

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 80th Anniversary of Chapel Consecration – Monday 15th October 2018 House Music – Thursday 18th October 2018 OA Annual Dinner 2018 (by ticket only) – Saturday 10th November 2018 Carol Service – Tuesday 11th December 2018, 3pm, at Abbey A Level Certificate Presentation Evening – Monday 17th December 2018 OA Society AGM – Wednesday 13th March 2019 Regional Lunch Stratford-Upon-Avon – April/May 2019, date TBC OA Day 2019 – Sunday 9th June 2019 Visitation Day 2019 – Saturday 22nd June 2019 Eros to Eros Run and ASPA Ball – Friday 28th June 2019 Regional Lunch West Sussex – Autumn 2019, date TBC

15 OA REVIEW | GIRLS AT ALDENHAM The Girls To celebrate 2018 as ‘Year of the Woman’, and mark Riding’s becoming a girls’ day House, we asked some our female OAs about their favourite memories from their time at Aldenham, and what life lessons they’ve taken forward with them from their schooldays. Girls at Aldenham Girls at

Back L-R: Caroline Frith (neé Spragg) (B1982-84) and Jo Scott (neé Thallon) (B1982-84) Front L-R: Sarah Jane Costello (neé Woodrow) (B1982-84), Kate Murphy (neé Sales) (B1982-84) and Nancy Jouneau (neé Rowe) (B1982-84)

Masume Hidayatullah (P1980-82) ‘Aldenham was a very peaceful place when I joined, not too competitive, gently encouraging pupils to develop lasting interests and excel in their efforts. My favourite member of staff was John McAllister (CR1967-2005) for his relentless Mural painted by Kate Murphy (neé Sales) (B1982-84) in 1984 on the girls’ study block in confidence in my ability to excel in Beevor’s. Picture taken in 1998. history, my favourite subject. My brief L-R: Kate Murphy (neé Sales) (B1982-84), Jo Scott (neé Thallon) (B1982-84) and Sarah Jane Costello (neé Woodrow) (B1982-84) time at Aldenham is fondly remembered; community service, inspirational teachers, being immersed in great literature, I was useless at Biology, but made me hugely encouraging and gave me a real London theatre evenings and wintry laugh lots. I have lots of funny memories love for the game – I was very sad to walks over the fields all stand out and set of Aldenham, and the long term gain of hear when he died in 2012. the foundation for most of what I love now.’ being there has been fabulous. I’ve gone on to be happy, and you can’t get better Miranda Kelly (neé Stewart) (P1988-90) Jo Scott (neé Thallon) (B1982-84) than that!’ ‘When I attended Aldenham there hadn’t ‘Aldenham was great, lovely fun when I yet been very many girls through the was there, but there were very few girls. Lindsey Kelly (neé Hall) (P1985-87) door, so, at first, we were viewed as a I made amazing friendships, and the ‘Aldenham was a small school when I slightly strange species by some of the experience made up a percentage of the was there, which felt very personal, with boys, who avoided us as much as they person I am today. I wasn’t very only around 30 girls across the Sixth could! Others, though, were quick to academic, but my favourite member of Form. Girls were very definitely a welcome us and make friends, visiting staff, Austin Galvin (CR1970-76) knew minority and still very much of a novelty our studies and helping us to settle into for the boys but there were some great and understand Aldenham life. I have so friendships formed and I think a lot of many lovely memories of Aldenham Kate Murphy (neé Sales) (B1982-84) the boys felt quite protective of the girls. from the people I met in those two My favourite memories were the long fun-filled years (and still keep in touch evenings in the summer, and the time I with): going on Duke of Edinburgh spent in the House and roaming around expeditions to Aviemore (the Happy the grounds. David MacGregor Haggis); a Biology field trip to Slapton (CR1982-1999), who taught English, Sands (where we had a massive water was my favourite teacher. He was fight); spent “revising” beside inspirational – his lessons rarely stuck to the cricket pitch; and not forgetting the text in hand but he talked a lot about the conveyor-belt toast machine, and life, and managed to make even Chaucer being the first ever girl to compete relevant. I also took up squash whilst at in the inter-house cross country … school with John McAllister, who was I could go on!

16 OA REVIEW | GIRLS AT ALDENHAM

Miranda Kelly (neé Stewart) (P1988-90) Girls atGirls Aldenham

‘Once, during a Chemistry lesson our teacher Ken Barnard (CR1956-1991), who had one numb hand, inadvertently put it L-R back: Jo Marsh (K1988-90), Anna Keach (K1988-90), ???, Melita Armitage (neé near a Bunsen burner. I’ll never forget the Douthwaite-Hodges), Kirsten ‘Gussie’ O’Halloran (B1988-90), Jennifer Christie (B1988-90), smell of burning hair and skin which ???, Hannah Vivian (neé Boughton) (P1989-90) L-R front: Gretchen Le Boutellier (B1989-90), Justine Kwaan (P1988-90), Nicola Cox soon filled the room forcing one student (P1988-90), Lucy Bennett (K1988-90), Lizzy Gascoyne (neé Handford) (K1988-90), Corrina to utter the immortal lines, “Mr Barnard, Giles (neé Griffin) (P1988-90), Clare Yeabsley (neé McCarty) (K1988-90) watch out! Your hand’s on fire!” Another time, during Biology our teacher, Austin Aldenham that I heard about and window was open. Unfortunately on her Galvin, who always brought his dog into applied for a GAP year post in way up she miscounted the number of class, watched us all do dissections on Switzerland, working as a Lab Technician bedrooms and she climbed in the rats. Halfway through he sent us out for and House Tutor. After university, I chose window of Maccy our Housemaster who break and left his dog alone in the room. to go into TEFL teaching and travel was in bed with his wife. They thought When we got back there were no longer extensively.’ she was a burglar. The resulting any rats’ innards out on the side where commotion woke the whole school up we’d left them, but just a sick dog staring Kat Tucker (B1992-94) and got me in a whole heap of trouble. guiltily at us! ‘There were eight girls in total when I Maccy even recalled this story as one of ‘Looking back at that school girl from joined Aldenham, split between Beevor’s, his favourites on his retirement speech. where I am now, I can see that Aldenham Kennedy’s and Paull’s. We were all quite not only gave me more confidence and close but individual, and I have so many Kimberley Swift (neé Stewart-Mole) independence but was a nurturing memories of friendship and fun. One of (K1995-97) environment that got the best out of me. my favourite trips ever was going on the ’Aldenham was for pupils from 11 years In fact, it was from a chemistry lesson at gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition in of age upwards when I joined, and had a Scotland. Since then I fell in love with smattering of girls in the Sixth Form. The Scotland and escaping to the Highlands girls were split between Beevor’s and is still one of my favourite things. I Kennedy’s – Stephanie Ottey (B1995-97) remember our feeble efforts at putting a and I were the only two girls in lacrosse team together – we could only play 7 a side and everyone had to play! L-R: Stephanie Ottey (B1995-97), Sarah One of the best things about Collins (B1995-97), Tina Lui (B1995-97), Aldenham was the amazing staff Annabelle Browne (B1995-97), and Kimberley members. I had so many teachers I loved Swift (neé Stewart-Mole) (K1995-97) and who I felt genuinely appreciated me and encouraged us to develop our character. John McAllister or Maccy was my Housemaster at Beevor’s and he really was like a second father to me. You L-R back: Tanya Sweeting (neé Webb) never forget a good teacher. (K1988-90), Melita Armitage (neé There was the famous time that me Douthwaite-Hodges), Kirsten ‘Gussy’ and another girl left our boarding house O’Halloran (B 1988-90), Jennifer Christie one night and then couldn’t get back in. (B1988-90) L-R front: Miranda Kelly (neé Stewart) My partner in crime decided she could (P1988-90), Hannah Vivian (neé Boughton scale the drainpipe to the top floor of (P1989-90), Justine Kwaan (P1988-90) Beevor’s House where our bedroom

17 OA REVIEW | GIRLS AT ALDENHAM

Paull’s House Girls 2005

Natasha Klimt (P2007-11) and Charlotte Spillman (P2007-11)

Girls at Aldenham Girls at I have so many wonderful memories at Aldenham, I really do still miss it. It was an amazing place. House Music was always memorable, House Dinners, School Plays, Drama lessons; I wouldn’t have missed a moment of it for the world in all honesty.

Lara Alsadoun (P2004-11) I was one of the first girls to enter into Paull’s House Photo 2009 Aldenham’s Year 7 group in Martineau’s House back then, so I guess it might have been slightly intimidating at first. Nevertheless everything grows on you quite quickly. The new friends you make and the memories that follow; the endless events: fireworks night, House Music competitions and so on. These just continue and grow greater every year you progress. Additionally, you were never really bored. There was always somewhere to be, as well as so many extra activities to be apart of. Whether it was music, sciences, sports or just some down time to sit on the field during summer and just enjoy the company. Kennedy’s, which probably caused skills for the big bad world is that of Having said this I ended up staying till Housemaster Austin Galvin no end banter. Being around so many boys all Sixth Form! of stress. the time means I have a fine-tuned sense My favourite memories are of the of humour and the ability to laugh at House Play when I proudly took the title myself. As a teacher myself now, I can tell role in Put Your Clothes On, Clarisse, you that is very important! directed by the fabulous Will Phelps (CR1994-98). Stephanie and I were day Natasha Klimt (P2007-11) girls in the Lower Sixth, but if we wanted ‘I accept that I’m very biased about to stay the house caretaker would let us Aldenham because I became incredibly use his spare room – not that we didn’t attached to it, but it really was a occasionally kip in our study (sorry, sir!) In wonderful place to be. I remember being those days we also had a bar in the Sixth excited to go into school, primarily Form Common Room and if you wanted because of the sense of community that help with prep you would often be I felt almost immediately upon joining offered a beer by one of the more the School. I never thought I would L-R: Ioanna Charalambous (P2004-11), Lara relaxed tutors as you discussed the finer stand a chance of getting the position Alsadoun (P2004-11), Torie Cox (P2009-11), points of your philosophical discourse. of Head Girl – this was the first time that Anna Caro, Jeannine Bringmann (P2009-10), Tabea Pottiez (P2009-11), Holly Compton Being an Aldenham girl taught me to the Head Pupil role was being shared (P2009-11), Sophie Radon (P2009-11), Luise stand up for myself and really have a go between a Head Boy and a Head Girl – Röessel (P2009-10), Lydia Mills (P2009-11) at anything I wanted to. One of the key but I applied. (photo courtesy of Lydia Mills)

18 OA REVIEW | GIRLS AT ALDENHAM

Being at Aldenham taught me to be many ways, and to be able to go back independent and explore as many and help impact a current student’s

aspects of being a student without any studies through the Mentoring Scheme atGirls Aldenham regrets. Whether it was through activities is such a privilege, and to write this or just spending time with friends. I felt magazine is such a joy. I have met so that once Aldenham was over I was many incredible people – fellow ready to leave and move on. Sounds students, teachers previous and current, quite ironic, but what can I say, I was able OAs – through Aldenham, and words to enjoy every moment I had, all the ups Abigail Turner (P2009-11) and Lara can’t and won’t do justice to what it Alsadoun (P2004-11) and downs of school life. means to me to be a part of this community. something I have carried with me in my attitude every day since. I also felt like Celina Messner (P2010-11) if I didn't get the highest grades that My favourite memories are the ones I wasn't a complete failure, because I would have declared as mundane Aldenham is about much more than that back in the day. However, I value them if you want it to be. It gave me that space today as unique and extraordinary to the and nurturing to be able to develop in boarding experience I had at Aldenham. areas that weren't just academic. I dearly The bus rides to hockey games on the Abigail Turner (P2009-11) and Sophie loved my time at Aldenham, and weekend with the excitement of the Radon (P2009-11) wouldn't have changed it for the world. approaching game in the air are a valued memory of mine. The nervous chatter Abigail Turner (P2009-11) Lydia Chapman (P2010-12) and giggles always grew louder as we ‘Aldenham is a world unto itself, with ‘Aldenham was a big part of my life approached the opposing team’s school lovely school grounds and a rich when I was doing my A Levels, and I’m and the team spirit became especially schedule to keep everyone busy. I got to lucky enough to include it as a huge part apparent. Having to return home with actually engage in activities I liked aside of my life now. I was a weekly boarder, defeats almost all the time did not spoil from attending lessons which certainly going home only at weekends to my the good mood we were in. The fun and made it more interesting. I made some Saturday job, and then back on a Sunday friendships counted more and helped to dear, lifelong friends at Aldenham. My night for another week. Boarding gave get over the defeat. I also appreciated favourite memories range from singing me the best space for getting all the the efforts of trying to make the with the choir at Ypres, having heaps of work I had done, as well as the fantastic boarding experience as homelike as fun on the bumper cars at the Leaver’s social aspect of getting to spend your possible. From pampering evenings, to Ball, and all the events like House Music, free time socialising with your friends. chats during prep time and movie nights. Les Philosophes Society and seasonal Not many people get the chance to Being so well looked-after leaves little concerts. work closely in such an amazing place time for missing home. All of these One of the most amazing experiences on a really personal level, and I am moments made Aldenham my home that resulted from attending Aldenham hugely grateful to be able to pop in away from home. was being able to complete the Duke of and out of School every other week. My experience as a boarder at Edinburgh Gold Award. When I think Aldenham has changed my life in so Aldenham helped me grow into the back to the trip I am thankful to Anne Morgan (CR1986-Present) and David Chorley (CR2007-14) for dedicating the L-R Jessica Dudack (P2007-12), Jodie Chun (P2008-12), Annabel Mizel (P2008-12), Alice Erman (P2005-12), Jessica Oommen (P2005-12), Evie Noorali (P2008-12), Lydia Chapman time to help us complete it. As a result of (P2010-12), Amelia Stanbury (P2010-12). (Photo courtesy of Jessica Dudack) the expedition and award I got to meet Prince Philip – and have a quick chat – at my award ceremony. I sincerely doubt something like that would have happened without Aldenham. Aldenham taught me a lot. As much as I loved my time there I'm not going to pretend it was easy. I went through some difficulties which impacted on my studying and performance. However, the School did everything they could to adjust and give me some extra help which I would have failed without. That patience and understanding is

19 OA REVIEW | GIRLS AT ALDENHAM

and English students. I think the English Director of Music. When I first came to education system is great because you Aldenham I was shy and awkward. John have such a range of subjects and was the one who took me in for a voice languages to choose from. The thing I test and persuaded me to join the choir. miss most about Aldenham is playing John was the one who encouraged me tennis in the mornings, as it became to learn new instruments and develop my routine.’ my singing. John was the one who introduced me to so much beautiful Osnat Katz (P2007-14) music. John was the one who, through ‘When I was at Aldenham it was a fairly music, always supported me and tight-knit school – the class sizes were helped me to discover something that

Girls at Aldenham Girls at fairly small, only about 20 people changed my life. Alisha Baharani (P2012-14), Eleanor maximum (and in my final year I was the I spent seven years at Aldenham Lusher (P2012-14) and Lucy Carne only student taking Latin A-Level – I had and that's not a trivial amount of time. (P2007-14) a class just for me and it was great). I think the most important lesson I When I first came to Aldenham in Year 7, learned was never to pass up an person I am today. Being only 15 years there were about 60 of us altogether and opportunity to learn something new. old and living away from my family and they made a huge fuss about how there You might not be good at it instantly – friends was a big step out of my comfort were 19 girls. I was actually quite and that's okay. You might not enjoy it – zone, although I probably wasn’t even shocked by this at first because my and that's okay too. But most of the time aware of what exactly a comfort zone primary school had nearly equal numbers you learn a great deal and meet some was. Aldenham gave me the right of girls and boys. Because of this, the incredible people. amount of guidance and freedom to girls all stuck together in one big group take on responsibility and test my own for the first few years – after we went to Lucy Carne (P2007-14) personal limits. Returning to Germany, Paull's House we were still close, but we ‘When I attended Aldenham it was big it became apparent, in comparison to split off into our own groups more. on tradition and a massive part of School my peers, that I had developed a higher My favourite memories of Aldenham life was centred around the House Shield level of sovereignty, as well as the are almost all music-related! The House and Brewers Cup; because of this, it necessary self-reflection. Looking back at Music Competition was always incredibly meant that we all took part in such a my 15 year old self, I am surprised by the tense and leading (and winning) the Part variety of things like, drama, sports and foresight I had through the opportunity Song competition when I was in Year 12 music. My two favourite memories are of acting autonomously, as long as was definitely a high point. We also used winning House Music and the next year I did not take advantage of it and acted to go on choir tours every few years – conducting House Music. It was so responsibly with it. Academically I singing and making memories with rewarding to watch all our hard work pay improved a lot due to my time at friends was wonderful, especially when off and to have fun while doing it. The Aldenham, simply by developing an we would break out into song just about most important thing Aldenham taught intrinsic motivation. Being exposed to everywhere. me is that you should turn nerves into the level of self-determination helped My favourite teacher was far and excitement and to put yourself out there me focus on what was important to away John Wyatt (CR1994-2016), the and try new things.’ myself and taught me that a good educational performance was a part of that. Paull’s House Photo 2017 On a less serious note, I also really miss Aldenham’s very British tea times in between classes in the morning and the amazing English breakfast teas, as well as the cookies. They never tasted as good as they did in the common room of Paull’s House.

Raika Miyama (P2010-13) ‘I was a full time boarder at Aldenham, and my favourite memories of Aldenham are definitely spending time in my boarding House, Paull’s, with my friends at the weekend. I really liked boarding school as I could focus on my studies, but also spend time with other foreign

20 From the School The impactThe of the Aldenham will be as you I am sure Therefore and included defeating on on College Eton and included defeating The a sunlit afternoon the semi-finals. in ground final was held at Burton Albion’s in a 4-1 victoryand resulted against was team The Cheadle Hulme School. splendidly supported pupils, many by OAs. and governors staff, parents, ago, two years introduced Attributes, had amongst pupils and staff is have Attributes: These especially pleasing. Co-operation;Aspiration; Courage; Curiosity; Independence; Respect the personal describe our vision for believe We of our pupils. development that they encompass the characteristics a the framework for that provide successful experience at the School and meet the challenges of equip them to us. when they leave life these two read as I was to delighted splendidly affirmative comments in the Inspection report: courteous are and supportivePupils to an excellent each other and have on the impact of their behaviour awareness upon others the school as confident, leave Pupils people young and compassionate mature Attributes’ as guiding with the ‘Aldenham and principles to help lead successful fulfilling lives. is a veryThis which good position from planning now are We forward. move to the next phase of the Aldenham storyfor plan which I look with a new strategic of you sharingforward to with many I thank all the next the over year. Society their members of the OA for with the in and involvement interest and look the last year School over in the of you meeting many forward to next months. twelve

Letter from the from Letter Headmaster be the School Aldenham is going to year, This been with just under 600 ever it’s largest 18. 11 to pupils aged from 21 FROM THE SCHOOL THE FROM |

his is a significant increase and and increase his is a significant of our success is a direct result in seeking an extension of It’s a joy to see the way in which the in which the see the way to a joy It’s has been plenty celebrate to There I was delighted that the ISI that the ISI I was delighted Over months we the last twelve This summer the boarding facilities in in facilities summer the boarding This the from also benefitted have Paull’s and that Beevor’s major upgrade now in 2016, so we enjoyed McGill’s facilities of real boarding have the campus. across excellence the so much hope to School gives pupils in their academic and other almost a quarter Last year endeavours. of our GCSE students gained 9 or more which is a tremendous A*/A grades non the effectively given achievement of the cohortselective nature here. not the last year, at the School over least the sporting of achievements our U13 County Cricket Champions; netball who VII for our First experienced season; their best ever Champions; our U14 National Futsal who squad, and our Under 15 Football National first ever the School’s won achievement is a tremendous This title. pupil numbers through a planning a planning pupil numbers through I can however last year. agreement though that, even you assure be possibly Aldenham is going to of the than double the size more it will be joined, school which you as Aldenham recognisable absolutely and that the ethos of the School will be continued. us last inspection visited who team inspection day a three December for judged the educational quality we across ‘Excellent’ our pupils as offer the board. managed the transition of have a House to day a boys’ from Riding’s girls are House and the day girls’ thriving in their new environment. T OA REVIEW OA

I was able to embrace boarding within within embrace boarding I was able to activities, and evening attend School, like a part feel really of the community. and school, Aldenham is a lovely each and everydevelops pupil that the extraattends; curricular and social and fantastic, are aspects life of school being an Aldenham Girl made me realise House system The what a community is. making you pulls people together, really honoured I feel partfeel family. of a big school.’ such a lovely attended have to Georgie Yeabsley (P2009-16) Yeabsley Georgie had a huge impact life. on my ‘Aldenham and I shy 7, I felt Year When arriving in my especially with had little confidence, me to Aldenham allowed academics. as a person, leading and develop express and move A Levels, my achieve me to university at Durham.onto Living onsite as me, was an amazing experience for Sarah Dean (P2014-16) and Georgie Dean (P2014-16) and Georgie Sarah Yeabsley Esther Wedenig (P2012-16), Anya Gibbins (P2012-16), Anya Wedenig Esther (CR2008- (P2009-16), Emily Gratton (P2009-16), Yeabsley Georgie Present), (P2016) Sasha Narozhnaya OA REVIEW | FROM THE SCHOOL

Aldenham Golf Team Success

L-R: Archie Norton, Arran Kanth and Lewis Slade

ongratulations to the Aldenham School Golf Team of Arran Kanth C(M2014-Present), Lewis Slade Exam results (L2016-Present) and Archie Norton (K2013-18), who beat St Albans School, n the 16th August, pupils from will begin his medical studies St Columbus School, and The Perse

From the School From Year 13 gathered in the School at Leicester. School in the regional finals to advance Olibrary to receive their A Level On the 23 August, the Y11s also to the finals of the ISGA Schools results, which enabled over 80% of the gathered to receive their GCSE results. Matchplay Tournament. The ISGA students to be admitted immediately With exam structures and assessments Tournament is the largest Independent to their universities of choice. having recently changed, there were Schools Golf Competition in the UK. It was good results across the board plenty of nerves that morning, but the The boys went on to compete in the again, with over 46% of the grades at results were once again fantastic, with finals on the 29th and 30th April 2018 in A*/A/B grade. This year’s top results over 92% of pupils achieving a Level 4 St. Mellion, Cornwall, and were included last year’s Head Girl, Phoebe or higher. supported by OA David Keeling (M1948- Altman (A*A*A*) who has a place at James Fowler commented: ‘I am 53), who was delighted to see Arran, Bristol to read English and Classics; Jodie glad that the hard work of the boys a fellow McGillian. They came in 17th Hall-McAteer (A*A*A*) will go to and girls has been recognised and the overall, a fantastic achievement. Nottingham to read History after a gap dedication of their teachers has been Well done, boys! year to pursue her international show so well rewarded.’ jumping career; and Shiv Menon (AAB) Congratulations to all!

John Rayfield (CR2016-Present) and Mike Yeabsley (CR2008-Present) and David Keeling (M1948-53) and Arran Michael Forsyth (K2013-18) Charlotte Yeabsley (P2011-18) Kanth (M2014-Present)

22 From the School 23 FROM THE SCHOOL THE FROM |

OA REVIEW OA

t was another record breaking year breaking year t was another record Annual Fund the Aldenham for an amazing which generated A new online giving facilityA new online giving was set As a result of this important a result As ANNUAL FUND 2017/18 AND OTHERANNUALCHARITY FUND2017/18 FUNDRAISING The sound system in the Chapel was was in the Chapel sound system The clarity more during providing upgraded, by was much appreciated This services. that gathered congregations the large and Day OA including at special events new electricThe organ, Day. Visitation a single donation from funded by From the selected charity. to for search virginmoneygiving.com much was raised see how Aldenham to various campaigns. through up this year and attracted several and attracted several up this year the Aldenham Annual Fund donations to and other charity run campaigns Money Virgin the year. throughout this for Giving was chosen as the vehicle and means system profit’ for ‘not as it is a will go that all the money generated , was delivered John Apthorp, was delivered (P1949-53) in the January used, and has been well practice and at concerts,for with one student performing on it at the annual Theatre Beck music competition. a from benefitted have productions wonderful new lighting desk and in planned to the things we addition to provide been able to have we buy, additional equipment, including a kitspecial team who are students for in Madrid football in the playing new season. fundraising activity another major bursary a deserving to will be awarded continue their to student, enabling them Sixth the time at Aldenham into Form. £57,000! We are all very grateful to those all very those to are grateful We £57,000! campaign. this regular who contributed to Other new facilities new Other A brand new coach park was opened in June 2018, next to Kennedy’s House. House. in June 2018, next Kennedy’s to has been an essential addition to This space more parents Aldenham, giving in the car park. I OA REVIEW | FROM THE SCHOOL

Farewell to David Boothby (CR1985-90 & 1991-2018)

People often say to me ‘You must have seen a lot of changes in your time at Aldenham’, and in many ways that is true.

hen I started in 1985, there school where the promise of soon-to-be- were six boarding houses vacated boarding houses proved too Wwith a few day boys in what tempting. I was later asked to return, was then School House, classes six days a when the decision was taken to create week, and Chapel on a Sunday morning two new day Houses at Aldenham, and unless you had a double exeat, which the Housemaster of one of these secured allowed you to leave on Saturday another job at a different school. I spent evening. There were 350 pupils in four very happy years as the first School, and 40 in the Common Room; if Housemaster of Riding’s. a member of staff’s wife had a baby, then From Riding’s, I went to Beevor’s. In the whole School had a ‘remedy’ (a half); the late 1980s and early 90s, the School and girls had only just been introduced. was in dire financial trouble, and having When they first arrived, the boarding been saved by the sale of the Stanley of the characteristics that has marked houses had not been fully prepared for Spencer paintings, the School then Aldenham out as different to some local girls, and they were attached to Houses, sought to increase pupil numbers, and competitors, and which has appealed to

From the School From but placed with staff families. so it was that I became Housemaster of so many, and is always mentioned by the I started as a Tutor in Paull’s, where Beevor’s, and was given responsibility for Inspectors and visitors to Aldenham. the Housemaster was also Head of the first ever pupil from mainland China. I have been fortunate enough to have English and Senior Master. There was no Looking at the School now, it is clearly served in all the Senior Houses bar senior management then, just a Senior in excellent health: the Prep School, St. McGill’s, working with legendary Master and five other Housemasters. My Hilda’s and Martineau’s are all very full, Schoolmasters and Mistresses. They all flat was at the top of the back stairs, just along with the Senior Houses, and for had very different styles, but were all down from the girls’ wing, and my front the first time we are in a position to be united by a passion for their work and a door was opposite the girls’ shower that bit more selective with our intake. commitment to see their charges thrive room, so leaving my flat at any time was Of course, we have always – rightly – and grow. Similarly, in the Maths fraught with danger! been proud of our broad intake and the department, I’ve worked with some Having discovered that my real work we do with all abilities of pupils. fantastic colleagues, and been lucky interest lay in the pastoral side of the job, That willingness and ability to get the to have had wonderful Heads I left after five years at Aldenham to a best out of pupils of varying ability is one of Department. So, back to the initial question about change: yes, the School has changed in many ways; but also at heart it has not. It is still a welcoming and accepting community that strives to get the best out of every pupil. I continue to be surrounded by committed and supportive colleagues and friends who, amidst the long hours of hard work and daily stresses and strains, remain cheerful and positive. The School has always thrived on goodwill, going the extra mile, and that, to my mind, must be protected at all costs. Aldenham is a very special place. As James Fowler wrote to my son after his stint as School Captain: ‘Aldenham is in your blood’, and that is true for all the David Boothby with Catherine Fulford (CR2014-Present) Boothbys; I suspect it always will be.

24 From the School James Fowler Headmaster The “This is a very everyone:congratulated work reflection of the of everycreditable teaching both one of the school staff, in which the the way and support staff, for what is offered to pupils respond them, and of course the support the for School the parents.” by 25 FROM THE SCHOOL THE FROM |

The School also held its annual SchoolThe also held its annual boarding and early years’ provision. It provision. and early years’ boarding the inspectors to was also a chance for consider the quality of the educational the pupils throughout for provision School in terms of academic and personal inspection The spent team development. in the School and also looked days atthree a questionnaire to responses the parents’ of the process. at the beginning about a past pupil, aged only 18, who aged only 18, who about a past pupil, WW1, of within a year had died in School. leaving service in on Remembrance Sunday with a good Heath, Letchmore pupils and staff of current attendance School The as OAs. as well members, in Brass Ensemble led the congregation Andy and Senior School Principal hymns, , and Prep (CR2009-Present) Williams and Senior and Girls School Head Boys laid wreaths. OA REVIEW OA

Revd Revd

ldenham is delighted to have have to ldenham is delighted the rating been awarded of ‘Excellent’, the highest the highest ‘Excellent’, of Mr Stewart Al (CR2017-Present) ast year’s service, which took ast year’s place on the 14th November not only on the 2017, focused

This process firstly checked process on the This

A Aldenham School Inspection School Aldenham the Independent by In School visited 2018, Aldenham was March inspectionSchools Inspectorate (ISI), who conducted a formal of Schools. both the Senior and Prep

Every year Aldenham marks Armistice Day with a service with the whole school community Day in the marks Aldenham Armistice Every for year of internationalism Altar as a symbol of the on the placed flags are national 55 where School Chapel, colours. along with the CCF the school, Remembrance Day Remembrance the importance of peace and unity School The the world. throughout community of the 288 was reminded pupils and staff who died in former conflicts and science of the 20th century, teacher poem that he had written a moving read the occasion. The especially for sacrifice of our armed forces but also but also forces sacrifice of our armed spoke 2005-Present) (CR Green Philip compliance of the School with all to aspects in relation of regulation including independent schools, possible outcome, with full compliance with full compliance possible outcome, in every standard. L OA REVIEW | FROM THE SCHOOL

Letchmore Trust Art Prizes

ongratulations to this year’s of work this year was extremely Letchmore Trust Art Prize high, and James James-Crook Cwinners: Phoebe Altman (M1968-72) spent considerable (P&R2011-18), who won the Senior Prize; time viewing the artwork on display Adetoun Thompson (P2013-Present), and choosing the winners backed up by winner of the Intermediate Prize; and Hugh Schermuly (M1974-78), Chairman Edie Sunman (R2016-Present), who won of the Letchmore Trust. Junior prize winner Edie Sunman’s inside, the Junior Prize. As always, the standard outside duck From the School From

James James-Crook with Phoebe Altman’s senior winning artwork

Adetoun Thompson’s intermediate prize-winning art

26 From the School

Will you you Will he traditional end of term race he traditional end of term race place as took Eros to Eros from the usual and raised £570 for Several runners this year were 2018 2018 were Several runners this year Paul winner once again was Paul The The Richfield family The and hot on his heels this year was was and hot on his heels this year Regular Ross Murray. parent current participantOA (M1977-82) Phillips Alan Richfield (SHE1977- Paul was joined by 82) who accompanied his son, Luke Richfield (R&K2011-18). It was quite and mum, Anne a family affair as wife Richfield race. ran the OAs. now and hence are leavers race nextbe back to or try year beat to Friday the date: Save record? own your 28 June 2019. , which , which Wait Can’t We chosen charity, schools in India. for toilets provides & 2003-07) Cheetham (CR1996-99 Eros to to Eros run Eros T Time (hr:m:s) Time 1:28:02 1:35:09 1:50:39 1:51:14 1:55:54 1:58:31 2:03:20 2:05:46 2:06:13 2:07:32 2:07:57 2:10:15 2:10:50 2:11:36 2:11:36 2:12:55 2:14:30 2:14:40 2:14:40 2:16:24 2:18:24 2:20:21 2:28:00 2:29:36 2:30:36 2:31:28 2:37:43 2:42:52 2:42:52 2:44:57 2:45:32 2:49:11 2:49:11 2:51:27 2:51:44 DNF 27 FROM THE SCHOOL THE FROM |

Year OA Parent 10 Staff 11 10 11 9 Parent 13 Parent Staff Parent Friend OA OA 9 11 13 12 12 Staff 12 11 Staff 11 10 Staff 12 12 Staff 12 Parent & Parent OA 12 OA Staff OA REVIEW OA

Cheetham, Paul Ross Murray, HarveyDodd, Sam Dawe, James Kennedy, Edward Fraser, MylesMcleod, Alexander Fraser, Scott Fraser, Anthony Jacovides, Stephen Hampstead, Buckland, Matt Jonathan Francis, Tom Hartley, Alan Phillips, Lily Zentner, Theo Theodorou, AzaanIqbal, Luke Richfield, Joe Stein, Lowri Jones, Chris Page, HenryJohnston, Jack Gibbins, Hauserman, Harry Carl Bell, KatieChambers, SashaMacDonald, Debbie Okeowo, Elizabeth Reid, Hana Hashiba Charlton, Anne Richfield, Paul Richfield, Bachmann, Thierry Rupert Alexander, Vann Sam Pennycook, Name

he boys played fantastically, fantastically, played he boys securing a 4-1 win against their able to opposition, and were

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 Position THE RESULTS THE celebrate with current staff and OAs OAs and staff with current celebrate to alike, all of whom had travelled support them in the final. on their the boys to Congratulations thank you and fantastic achievement, everyoneto who supported them! On 15th March 2018, Aldenham’s U15 boys football squad travelled to the Pirelli Stadium, Burton Stadium, the Pirelli to squad travelled football U15 boys 2018, Aldenham’s On 15th March the final against Cheadle Hulme in competed they in the Midlands, where ground football Albion’s part as Association. of the Independent Schools Football Cup, Investec the for U15 ISFA Investec Cup Final Investec ISFA U15 T OA REVIEW | NEWS AND FEATURES News and features Duke of Edinburgh Mat Award Baroudi

Four OAs – Greg Sheen (B2006-13), James Harmer (K2012-17), (B1974-77) Joel Amoa (L2015-17) and Kiran Horwood (B2012-17) – received their certificates for completing Gold in the Duke of Edinburgh Mat Baroudi (B1974-77) who lives in Las Vegas, travelled to meet up with two of Award Scheme. his contemporaries. Firstly, he met with Andy Archer (B1974-79) in Mallorca; and he four boys were invited to and six months of skill-based activities, then with Robert Ian Cox (B1974-77). Buckingham Palace, and were an expedition lasting four days and It’s lovely to see friendships that have Tpresented their awards by three nights, and also a residential spanned four decades still going strong! Prince Edward. placement, spending a working The Award Scheme requires week away from home working on participants to do 12 months of a shared activity. volunteering, 12 months of physical Congratulations to all of you!

Mat with Robert Cox

News and Features News Left to right: Kiran Horwood (B2012-17), Joel Amoa (L2015-17) and Greg Sheen (B2006-13)

James Harmer (K2012-17) with his mother Mat and Andy Archer

28 OA REVIEW | NEWS AND FEATURES

Paull’s House Reunion

n 17th October 2017, Aldenham School hosted a Oprivate event in the Whitbread Room, a Paull’s House 60 Year Reunion. Attendees were: Chris Draper (P1957- 62) and his wife Pat, Gill and Alex Titcombe (P1957-62), Jayne and Micki Hidayatullah (P1957-61), Melanie and Bill Fone (P1957-62), Margaret and David Smith (P1956-61) and Peter Phillips (P1957-61). Whilst visiting, the OAs enjoyed a performance by current pupils in Paull’s House, who performed their Part Song for the House Music Competition, which proved to be good luck, as the girls took the victory for Part Song that evening. Alex Titcombe (P1957-62) giving a speech

L-R: Zoe Weil (P2013-Present), Jolie Sharpe (P2012-Present), Margaret Smith, David Smith (P1956-61), Gill Titcombe, Alex Titcombe (P1957-62), Jayne Hidayatallah, Micki Hidayatallah (P1957-61), President of the OA Society James James-Crook (M1968-72), Peter Phillips (P1957-61), Chris Draper (P1957-62), Pat Draper, Melanie Fone, Bill Fone (P1957-62), and Development and OA Manager Ann Saffery. News and Features

Joe Hawes – Edward Oatley MBE Dean of Edward Oatley MBE (P1958-62) has been recognised by the Community and Edmundsbury Voluntary Awards, receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award The Reverend Canon Joe Hawes for over 25 years dedication to sports (SHO1978-83) has been announced as development. Edward, who is also the the new Dean of Edmundsbury by the Chairman of the Sevenoaks Sports Church of England. Joe, who was Council, was presented his award in 2017 formerly the Vicar of All Saint’s in Fulham, by former judge has been recognised for increasing the Len Goodman. Edward is still a keen number of families and youth cyclist, having done 10 charity cycle rides worshipping at the London parish over all around the world, and also a the 15 years he was Vicar there, and swimmer. Congratulations Edward! because of this achievement, has been awarded the position of Dean of Edmundsbury which he took up in the Edward Oatley, pictured with Janet summer of 2018. Oatley Congratulations Joe!

29 OA REVIEW | NEWS AND FEATURES

The Fleming Boys In April 2018, the OA and Development Office received a letter from Christopher Horne, an old Etonian, looking for information regarding Fleming Boys.

hristopher, who is Secretary Manager Ann Saffery said: ‘In my second if I was a Fleming Boy or not as I had of the Eton Fleming Boys, year at in Hemel never heard the term before. However, Ccontacted Aldenham to try Hempstead, I was asked to go to I did go to Aldenham as a result of and gain information from boys who to sit some papers, though I a county bursary. I have always attended School for a book he is trying had no idea of the objective. It later understood that in 1947 when I was to produce about their experiences at transpired that I was one of eight chosen 12 there was a Labour Council in school, and what they went on to do. that year in Hertfordshire to go to a public Hertford who introduced the scheme This has led to some very interesting school. It was simply described to my whereby boys from state schools could discoveries, including how the Fleming parents as a Hertfordshire bursary, but compete for places at public school. Boys came to be. the award (the title Fleming was never At the time I was at Alleyne’s Grammar During the Second World War, mentioned to me) enabled me to have a School in , who alerted my Winston Churchill gave his blessing to a good education, and I doubt whether I parents to this opportunity, and I duly scheme under the charge of the Scottish would have ended up at Cambridge if I sat my examination in Hertford County Judge, Lord David Fleming, enabling had not had the opportunity.’ Hall. There were 14 places available at talented boys and girls from state Jim Jacques (M1948-52) wrote: ‘It was various public schools within schools to attend public schools. The arranged for me to sit an entrance exam Hertfordshire and I was successful in scheme was seen as an experiment in organised by Hertfordshire County obtaining the eleventh. We knew social mobility and ran for 30 years, with Council Education Committee and then nothing about Aldenham, it was simply the number of pupils quite small, fewer be interviewed by a panel of a blind choice.’ than 300. One of the counties involved in Headmasters at St Albans School. I was Whilst there are probably more pupils the Fleming scheme was Hertfordshire, asked why I wanted to go to Aldenham, who attended Aldenham who were part and it has since come to light that and replied that it was because one of of the scheme, trying to identify which Aldenham School was one of the public my best friends, Edward Eastwood boys were Fleming Boys has proven schools chosen to take Fleming Boys, (SHE1947-52) was already there. I was difficult so far, and our investigation into alongside Eton, Harrow and Haileybury. accepted into McGill’s in September 1948.’ the scheme continues. If you think you Dr. Peter Reynolds (SH1949-55), Professor John Fletcher (P1948-54) could be a Fleming Boy, please do get in writing to Development and OA also wrote to Ann, saying: ‘I do not know touch with us at [email protected]. Further Success for Matt Wallace

ur rising golf star Matt Wallace

News and Features News (L2002-08) has won his second OEuropean Tour event, beating Andrew ‘Beef’ Johnston in a playoff. He nearly won at the 72nd hole when he hit a huge second shot over the water to the 18th green, but then three-putted so playoff with Beef ensued. However Matt scored a birdie, leaving him with two shots for a fantastic win over Johnston. Since his win at the Indian Open, Matt has gone on to win the BMW International Golf competition in Munich, his second European tour victory of 2018. Most recently, Matt won the Made In Denmark European Tour, and is currently under consideration to be included in the European team for the Ryder Cup. Congratulations Matt! Photo taken with Matt’s permission from his Twitter page: @mattsjwallace

30 OA REVIEW | NEWS AND FEATURES

Hinduism GCSE

OA Indra Sikdar (SH1985-1990) was awarded his GCSE in Hinduism this year, a subject he studied in adulthood. To his surprise and delight, the certificate was presented to him by Michael Wilcockson (CR1982-86), who also taught Indra when he attended School. Congratulations, Indra! Bruce Lizzie Spyrou Wins Miss Partridge Buckinghamshire Title

Lizzie Spyrou (P2008-12) has been awarded the title of Miss Buckinghamshire at the Miss Home Counties beauty pageant content.

izzie – who entered her first pageant aged 17, having seen Lan advertisement about entering beauty pageants on the Miss England website – was also awarded the Miss News and Features Charity title, having raised over £5,750 to date for Beauty With A Purpose, which helps raise money for disadvantaged children. All of the money raised by the UK goes to children within the UK. When asked what made her want to ongratulations to Professor enter into the world of beauty pageants, Emeritus Bruce Partridge Lizzie told us: ‘I thought it would be a C(B1957-58) who has been really good opportunity to try something presented with the Group Achievement new, get out of my comfort zone, and Award by the Royal Astronomical Society, grow my confidence.’ along with the Gruber Prize in It has taken Lizzie five years to win her Cosmology, a title that honours first title. She said: ‘It’s taken some tough individuals in the fields of Cosmology, losses and a lot of hard work, but I knew Genetics, Neuroscience, Justice and that if I pushed myself hard enough and Women’s Rights. Bruce, who was part didn’t give up, one day it would all pay off.’ of the European Space Agency’s Planck In July 2018, Lizzie competed in the Mission team, was also awarded the first half Miss England competition, Emmons Prize for excellence in teaching travelling to Resorts World in Birmingham by the Astronomical Society of the and competing in the sports, beautiful Pacific in the autumn of 2017. hair and publicity rounds. The competition Bruce is based at Haverford College then concluded in September at Kelham in Pennsylvania, and has most recently Hall, Nottinghamshire, where Lizzie spent time conducting experiences at missed out on the Miss England Title; the high altitude in the Andes. Many full results have yet to be announced. congratulations, Bruce! Congratulations Lizzie!

31 OA REVIEW | OAS AND BUSINESS

OAs and Business Following the positive feedback of last year’s Arts Review, we take a look at a different career section, and OAs who have set up and run their own successful businesses, including mobile apps, charitable foundations and even a 150-year-old family-run milling company.

Alan Grieve CBE who had been at the Hall who would The Jerwood Foundation give me Articles. I rather panicked about getting called to the Bar as I wasn’t sure Alan Grieve CBE (SHE1940-45) arrived at that I could support myself and was Aldenham in the summer term of 1940, reluctant to ask my father to do so.’ in June. He was placed in the home of Despite his worries, Alan got an Classics Master Cecil Stott (CR1924-67) interview with Slaughter and May – still in Letchmore Heath, something not considered one of the most prestigious uncommon at the time, and vividly law firms in the world – where he was remembers palliasses being placed on involved in commercial work, including Foundation, and Jerwood Gallery, all of the floor of School House, and the pupils merging companies, takeovers and Stock which are united in their commitment to having to sleep there because everyone Exchange listings. Alan told us: ‘I enjoyed supporting, nurturing and rewarding was scared that Aldenham would be the work enormously and it was quite excellence and dedication in the visual bombed, or worse, invaded by Hitler’s army. clearly the best possible training as an and performing arts. Since 1991, After leaving School, Alan went to assistant solicitor, I could ever have had.’ Jerwood has channelled over £100 study at Trinity Hall, Cambridge, full However, due to slow progression with million in capital and revenue funding in knowing that he could be called to war the firm, Alan decided to move on, and support of the arts in the UK. Alan said: at any point, and may not have the joined Platers and Stampers, whose name ‘The purpose of the Jerwood Collection opportunity to complete a full degree. Alan quickly changed to The Prestige of Modern and Contemporary British art As it happened, however, the war ended Group. There, Alan took the position of is to give public access to a privately- in Europe and Japan in 1945, and Alan the company’s legal officer, and personal owned collection and, through thoughtful gained a First in the Law Qualifying exam. assistant to the Chairman. display and interpretation, enhance Alan said: ‘My senior tutor at Trinity Hall, Since then, Alan has served on many people’s understanding and enjoyment Charles Crawley, was very congratulatory private companies across a number of of 20th and 21st century British art.’ and said that normally they would award sectors, including publishers, wine Amongst his greatest achievements a scholarship for a First, but in my case, merchants, retail fashion, wood floor in his career, Alan notes the Jerwood they thought it might have been a fluke!’ manufacturers, public relations, and, Collection of Modern British and Despite this, Alan was allowed to go on most famously, a Pearl Merchant, in the Contemporary Art, saving the Royal to take the Law Tripos, and gained a name of Jerwood. Alan told us: ‘I Court Theatre from liquidation and second First. established Jerwood Foundation for enabling them to complete their

OAs and Business OAs When asked why he studied law, Alan John Jerwood in 1977 and at that time building with a major grant from told us: ‘I think the easiest answer for me its principal benefactions were in the Jerwood, and establishing the Jerwood is that my father wanted me to take the fields of education and music, with Charitable Foundation, which makes civil service exam and try and enter the humanity at the heart of the activities revenue grants within the arts field for Diplomatic Corps – where I would not and initiatives. Following John Jerwood’s young, emerging artists. have had the necessary patience to death in 1991, the concept of a broad When asked what he is proudest of prosper – and the chaplain at Aldenham education was extended to embrace Alan said: ‘I hope there has always been a The Rev Dr Andrews (CR1940-45) had particularly the arts and cultural heritage. great concern for humanity and thinking given me the alternative in the simple The Foundation’s remit was subsequently about others. The ethos of celebrity, words of “Why not read Law?” As the idea refined to support, nurture and reward public relations and manipulation of appealed to me I did just that.’ excellence and commitment in the communications is not something I have After completing his degree, Alan had visual and performing arts in the UK, wanted to chase.’ several interviews to his Articles, and was with a particular focus on emerging and Alan received a CBE in 2003 for his called to the Bar. He said: ‘I was again early-career artists.’ services to the Arts, and continues to serve fortunate to have the support of a senior Today, the Jerwood is a family of on the board of the Jerwood Foundation. Fellow at the Hall who was willing to registered charities and not-for-profit To find out more about the Jerwood facilitate my being called to the Bar and organisations: the Jerwood Foundation, Foundation, you can visit their website at at the same time a practising solicitor Jerwood Space, Jerwood Charitable www.jerwood.org.

32 OA REVIEW | OAS AND BUSINESS

chance to take luxury holidays to exotic was extremely lucky to live in a city as locations including Barbados, South diverse and exciting as London, but, Africa and Dubai. even as a Londoner, I found it extremely Chris told us: ‘The company was hard to find what to do every day, even doing fantastically in the UK until the though there are hundreds of different referendum vote for Brexit. After that, the restaurants, bars and activities. This was pound crashed, and subsequently so did how City Surfer was born. Soho Square my business. You need a positive Media was founded on the fact that cashflow in order to get anywhere, and thousands of businesses across the businesses that don’t make money are planet haven’t adapted to the times they doomed to fail. It’s a sad lesson, but one live in: every business in this day and age that you need to learn if you want to needs social media to thrive. Simply put, start your own business.’ it is by far the cheapest means of This setback didn’t stop Chris, marketing available, and we just took however, as he went on to set up two advantage of what businesses need.’ Chris Roach more companies. The first, City Surfer Looking to the future, Chris is City Surfer and Soho Square Media is a free mobile application that helps continuing to work on growing his people discover the best restaurants, companies, building strong teams, and Following his time at Aldenham School, bars and activities in their local area; putting plans in to ensure his companies Chris Roach (B2006-09) went on to the second, Soho Square Media, is a have longevity. On a personal note, complete a degree at Regent’s University, boutique digital marketing agency, however, Chris told us that his main goal studying Global Business Management. helping companies to run social media is to make the Forbes ’30 Under 30’ list, It was during this time studying that campaigns, and has clients around the which notes 600 of the brightest young Chris developed a passion for world, in London, New York and entrepreneurs. We hope to see you on entrepreneurship, which he channelled Barbados. there soon, Chris! into his first company, While We Are When asked what compelled him to Chris’s City Surfer app is available for Young, a project he started alongside start up these two successful companies, download from the App Store and also working full-time. While We Are Young is Chris told us: ‘My inspiration for both Google Play, and you can learn more a tour operator, targeting the student companies came from looking at what about Soho Square Media here: demographic, giving students the was missing in the market. I realised I www.sohosquaremedia.com. OAs and Business Chris Stern Started in 1989, Stern Consultancy is Stern Consultancy Limited an independent catering consultancy, providing advice predominantly to After leaving Aldenham, Chris Stern clients who employ catering contractors, (P1973-78) studied for a degree in helping them develop a catering Hotel and Catering at the University of strategy and select and manage their Surrey. Throughout his time at university, caterer to get the best value. Clients of he had holiday jobs and work experience Stern Consultancy include: Microsoft, in the industry, including a year in Bentley, Porsche, American Express, industry spent at a boutique hotel, and University of the Arts London, BNP in the USA for one summer for BUNAC, Paribas, and Aldenham School, focusing a company that runs summer camps, on adding value to their catering and offers volunteer and paid work contract by driving quality up and experiences abroad. cost down. After university, Chris went on to work When asked what inspired him to set for a couple of contract caterers, working up the company, Chris told us: ‘Few his way up in organisations for the first others were offering the service that five years of his career. Chris told us: ‘I Stern Consultancy offers at the time we became increasingly frustrated that set up the company, so to an extent we regularly asked to judge various awards clients often failed to understand how to invented the market. Thirty years on, as well as for my opinion to be published manage us and get the best out of us. It others have copied our idea, but we still in articles both directly within my seemed logical to sell them my services, seem to be making a decent living and industry and in the wider business to guide them through getting a better love the variety of projects we work on.’ community. We see our business as a deal and improved service for a fee.’ This When asked what his greatest lifestyle choice: we could probably earn was when Chris decided to start his own achievement is so far, Chris said: ‘I enjoy a more slaving away for a large catering company, offering such a service. strong reputation in our industry and am company; however, we actually earn

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more than enough for a terrific lifestyle support my lifestyle aspirations, and and passion. You also have to be ethical and enjoy the variety of projects and therefore I’m bringing in younger people and moral above and beyond the clients for whom we work. There are few so that I can eventually slow down and expectation of others. It will underpin jobs that would give you access to work in a more focused way fewer days your long term future.’ everything from the Bentley and Airbus a week.’ One of Chris’s next projects is to use factories, through to business Finally, when asked what his advice his role within the catering industry to boardrooms in some of the world’s most would be to a young entrepreneur, Chris help the OA Committee organise the spectacular buildings, working on a wide said: ‘It’s critical to do something you Annual OA Dinner, set for Saturday 10th variety of projects with some really both believe in and love. I’ve seen people November. This is no mean feat, but we interesting clients.’ attempt to set up businesses in a are sure it’s safe in Chris’s hands! On his plans for the next stage of his dispassionate way, copying others as career, Chris told us: ‘At 58, I need to be they think it’s an easy way to make focusing on the next 10-15 years of my money. This simply doesn’t work. The To find out more about Stern Consultancy, career. I need the business to be able to best ideas are original, and require belief visit www.sternconsultants.co.uk.

Hashim Syed external resources that help individuals York Community Consulting with weekly training sessions on CV writing, interview techniques and Hashim Syed (R2009-13) attended problem solving. Aldenham for four years, staying to do In his first year working for YCC, Hash his GCSEs. After completing these, he led an award-winning marketing and and his family relocated to The Hague, fundraising project with a local charity, in the Netherlands, where his father and in his second year took on the was working at the time. Hash took his position of External Relations Officer, A Levels at The British School in the and also founded the York Consulting Netherlands, but has fond memories of Conference, a one-day event with the his time at Aldenham, telling us: ‘I cherish purpose of giving students an insight my time at Aldenham as the school’s into consulting, financial services, law, community gave me a platform to technology and non-profit sectors. In his explore who I am as a person. The House third year, Hash was selected to be the System was the gateway through which CEO of YCC. He told us: ‘As CEO, I could I got involved with sport such as Hockey, continue the work to champion the House Music, and academic ideas of fellow students, and drive and ultimately people that I’m engaged competitions such as The Business positive change for both students, our with. At Aldenham, I was able to do this Challenge, allowing me to champion my clients and the wider York Community. through sports and being a House strengths and work on my weaknesses.’ Together, we delivered social impact to Captain in Year 11. In the Netherlands, After finishing his A Levels, Hash went over 30 projects, oversaw a 600 ‘likes’ I was rewarded with the role of Student on to study Philosophy, Politics and reach on our Facebook page, hosted a Leader, and I sought out YCC as I could Economics at the University of York, conference for 137 students, introduced sense that it was the start of something

OAs and Business OAs where, whilst studying, he sought out a automation and technology to our special in which I was keen to be a role within the relaunch of a non-profit process, and improved the user driving force. My takeaway lesson is to student-run social impact consultancy, experience for all our members. I’m seize all fantastic opportunities out there, York Community Consulting (YCC). The delighted that from this, over three years and give it your all, as it will give back to aim of YCC is to deliver a genuine social of hard work, YCC won the “Committee you so much more. I was never certain impact and advance the employability of The Year Award” at our Student Union’s on a consulting career, all I knew was opportunities for students, which is award ceremony.’ that I enjoyed working with people.’ achieved by working with members of Since then, Hash has gone on to work When asked what his upcoming the community, including local charities, for J. P Morgan, and will be starting a plans are, Hash said that he would like to start-ups, and larger organisations such graduate scheme with Facebook in pursue an MBA in the US at some point, as Virgin Trains East Coast and First Bus September 2018. He has also been but his main goal is to ‘be happy in my on 10 week strategy consulting projects. featured on educational video site TED, personal life and professionally These projects are all delivered by where he gave a TEDx talk on ‘Unlocking challenged, and I would like the creative students, enabling them to gain work Your Inner Leader.’ When asked what has space to bring positive change.’ experience. YCC has partnered with spurred him on to be successful Hash For more information on York major professional firms – such as EY, told us: ‘Ever since Aldenham, I’ve had an Community Consulting visit www. BCG, PwC and Google – who act as insatiable desire to deliver positive yorkcommunityconsulting.co.uk. You mentors on the projects, and other change to the societies, communities can also watch Hash’s TEDx on YouTube.

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he worked on all aspects of the business, (SHO1943-46), whom David took over including the technical side, sales, from as Managing Director in May 1990, marketing and production. and his son, James Wright (R2004-08), Founded by George Reynolds Wright who is the company’s Production in 1867, G. R. Wright and Sons has had Director. James, following in his father’s over 150 years of experience, and is footsteps, also attended the Swiss School based in Ponders End Mills, Enfield. of Milling, graduating in 2013. Through the years, the mill has run on The business also makes a range of water, steam power and electricity, and Wright’s branded bread and cake mixes in 1920 the company constructed a new for home baking, available in all 90 foot silo, which stood as the tallest supermarkets. David told us: ‘I am so David and James Wright, with building in Enfield district for some time. proud of the team here. Many have been Simon Clack (left) In the 1950s, Wright’s remodelled their here for a very long time, and stuck with mill, increasing the capacity of the new me through thick and thin. We also have David Wright plant by 50%, resulting in production of a great resurgence of young staff, who, G. R. Wright and Sons 12 280lb sacks of flour per hour, as well like James, are proving to be the “roots as increasing storage space, constructing and shoots” for the future.’ After leaving Aldenham, David Wright a new silo on the riverside that had Since 2017, when Wright’s turned 150 (SHO1976-81) went to work as an capacity for 800 tonnes of wheat. years old, the company has been in the apprentice and trainee miller in Yorkshire Today, G. R Wright and Sons is a sixth process of building a new milling site in and the Midlands, and then went on to generation family-run multi-award Harlow, and OA Simon Clack (K1964-69), attend the Swiss School of Milling in St winning milling company, producing is working as Development Director on Gallen. It was here that David learnt the 2,000 tonnes of flour a week to a high the project. technical side of milling, something that quality for bakeries, wholesalers, shops, enabled him to work for Simons milling industrial food factories, and major To find out more information about engineers upon his return to England. retailers. Of the six generations of Wright’s, you can go to their website, After a short stint at Simons, David Wright’s, four have attended Aldenham: www.wrightsbaking.co.uk, where you returned to his family run milling David, his grandfather George Wright will also be able to find online recipes for business: G. R. Wright and Sons, where (M1915-16), his father Kenneth Wright cakes, bakes, desserts and breads.

(LBC) also in advertising, working as an year, she appeared as a guest interviewer OAs and Business account executive. Here, Karren worked in The Apprentice, grilling the final five mainly with publisher David Sullivan, contestants on their business plans and owner of the Daily Sport and Sunday CVs, a role she fulfilled again in Season 5 Sport tabloid newspapers. of the The Apprentice. On August 30th Having worked with Karren for six 2009, was announced as months, and been utterly impressed Lord ’s aide, replacing with her, David Sullivan offered her a job Margaret Mountford. She has fulfilled the at Sport Newspapers, where she was role every series since. promoted to the role of Director by the In January 2010, Karren Brady was age of just 20. Whilst at Sport appointed the position of Vice Chairman Newspapers, Karren saw an of West Ham United. Writing in her advertisement for the sale of column for The Sun newspaper: ‘To West Birmingham Football Club in the Ham fans I’ll make a single pledge – while Financial Times. She persuaded Sullivan we are on the board, we will hang in the to buy the club, suggesting that she run Tower of London before your club again Baroness Karren Brady it. Sullivan agreed, and Karren Brady goes through the financial turmoil which of Knightsbridge CBE became the Managing Director of so nearly brought it down.’ Karren has (B1985-87) Birmingham F. C. in March 1993, aged 23. since been responsible for negotiating Vice Chairman of West Ham United In March 2007, Karren Brady appeared the move of the club from the Boleyn on Comic Relief Does The Apprentice as a Ground (often referred to as Upton Park) After leaving Aldenham, Karren Brady contestant, leading the girls’ team in East London, to the Olympic Stadium (B1985-87) chose not to attend comprised of comedienne Jo Brand, in Stratford, which was finalised in 2016. university, and instead began work as a singer Cheryl Cole, actress Maureen Other business involvements of trainee at the advertising agency Saatchi Lipmann, and fashion expert Trinny Karren’s include having a seat on the and Saatchi. A year later, she moved to Woodall, to victory, and raising over board of Sport England, chairman of the London Broadcasting Company £750,000 for Comic Relief. The following Kerrang! magazine, a non-executive

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director of , from which she Baroness Brady has long been known for Business from Birmingham University in resigned to join Syco, the jointly owned championing women in business, and 2010, and awarded CEO of the Year at entertainment company of Simon has won numerous inspiration awards the Football Business Awards in 2012. Cowell and Sony. Karren is also an for her work. She has been named on Since then, Karren has received a CBE for Ambassador for Well Being for Women The Sunday Telegraph’s ‘100 Most services to entrepreneurship and women and Barclays Lifeskills, a campaign aimed Powerful Women in Britain’ list, as well in business in the 2014 New Years at young people, providing essential as the Evening Standard’s list of ‘London’s Honours List, and was elevated to career advice and experience, as well as 1000 Most Influential People 2010.’ She Baroness Brady of Knightsbridge in August a Patron of the Life After Stroke Awards. was given an honorary doctorate in 2014, serving in the House of Lords.

Matt Goodfield over 80 restaurants across London. When asked what his long term goals SideDish Media and KGM Media When asked what inspired him to set up are, Matt said: ‘By 2022, we want to be SideDish Media, Matt said: ‘I noticed that working with 500 restaurants across the After leaving Aldenham, Matt Goodfield a lot of restaurant owners really struggle UK, looking at possible expansion into (L2004-11) had several jobs, including with the marketing side of their business. other countries, and possibly entering as a runner on a studio film set and as a They’re great at cooking and customer the hotel market too. We want to television assistant in London. Matt said: service, but when it comes to online dominate the UK market and make a ‘I was mainly just testing the water to see they didn’t know where to start. This is name for ourselves.’ what it was I was truly passionate about. where we saw the opportunity for us Matt is delighted to have recently Once I found entrepreneurship I never and we love what we do.’ started working with The Hilton Hotel looked back and I truly love what I do KGM Media is a similar agency, set in Glasgow, and various other hotel day to day.’ up after SideDish Media, focusing on chains. He told us: ‘We have a lot Matt now owns and runs two helping accountants and financial planned for the future. We are constantly companies: SideDish Media and KGM advisors to get more clients online. The working towards our vision with Media, both marketing agencies. company is still in the its early stages, these companies, so we will keep SideDish Media helps companies in the and Matt hopes to have 20 companies executing every day to support our food and beverage industry, helping to on his books by the end of 2018. Matt long term goals.’ target new customers through online told us: ‘I saw that accountants were advertising. The company was started heavily reliant on referrals to grow their To find out more about SideDish Media two years ago, and since then, Matt has business and this can be a problem, and KGM Media, go to: grown the business to a team of seven as if they do not have any for a few www.sidedishmedia.co.uk and full time employees, and is working with months they will have no new business!’ www.kgmmedia.com.

Matthew Lawson Escape Yachting and Thatched Cottage Hotel

Inspired by his grandmother, who was

OAs and Business OAs a Headmistress at a village school, Matthew Lawson (K1981-86) spent a year teaching in Sussex after leaving Aldenham, before going to St Andrews University to read Theology. After graduating four years later, Matthew spent a year working in London, before moving to Oxfordshire to start training to become a priest. He was ordained in the Church of England in 1994, and served for a time in a parish in Bedford, before returning to education as a school chaplain, and Head of Religious Studies in Surrey, and then Sussex. After 15 years as a teacher, Matthew took a career break in 2015. Matthew has also served in the position of Lieutenant Matthew Lawson (left) with his business partner Commander in the Royal Navy.

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Having enjoyed sailing both in the UK take over the Thatched Cottage Hotel, a UK, in the areas of Bournemouth, Poole, and overseas since he was a teenager, 400-year-old historic property in the and Christchurch. Matthew decided he wanted to start a centre of the New Forest, just minutes When asked what his proudest business that would help share his from Lymington, where Escape achievement is, Matthew told us: ‘It’s the passion for sailing with those who would Yachting’s sailing base is. Matthew said: simple pleasure of a guest review that otherwise not be able to go sailing. ‘We worked hard to build up the hotel’s thanks and praises the little things. That Matthew told us: ‘Alongside my business reputation, as it was closed for two years brings great pleasure, and demonstrates partner, David, we set up Escape under the previous owners. Now, the that all our hard work looking after our Yachting to take people sailing on luxury Thatched Cottage Hotel offers cottage guests is recognised and rewarded.’ The yachts in the UK and the Caribbean, rooms, as well as luxury garden rooms Thatched Cottage Hotel also boasts a although the business has now and suites, combining modern essentials Five Star TripAdvisor Certificate of expanded to include, Croatia, Canada, with historic charm.’ The hotel also has a Excellence, and won the Brilliance in and anywhere else you can sail.’ The tea room and stunning garden, and the Business Award for Outstanding company offers guests skippered charter New Forest’s only gin bar, with a selection Customer Service. days out and holidays, and Escape of over 300 different types of craft gin. Matthew, who celebrated his 50th Yachting organises everything for their When not at Escape Yachting, or the birthday this year, has now set up a guests, looked after by a professional Thatched Cottage Hotel, Matthew is 10-year plan for his career. ‘I plan to retire skipper. ‘Great hospitality is about working as Chairman of the New Forest at 60,’ he told us, ‘with one or two more responding to your guests requirements Business Partnership, representing 8,000 hospitality businesses up my sleeve. and exceeding their expectations. We businesses in the New Forest, and Then I plan to enjoy the bliss of focus on first class guest service and offering support and training, as well as relaxation and the opportunity to travel enjoy sharing our enthusiasm with raising concerns with local and regional as a guest, rather than a host!’ others,’ Matthew told us. authorities. Matthew is also part of the In 2016, shortly after setting up Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), and To find out more about Matthew’s Escape Yachting, Matthew and his works nationally representing a vast businesses, visit: www.escapeyachting. business parter had the opportunity to number of small business owners in the com and www.thatchedcottage.co.uk

Nigel Dupont Dupont Production Limited

Nigel Dupont (SHO1980-83) has spent OAs and Business the last 20 years working in the television industry, with the last few years spent working as a freelance cameraman and Director of Photography. He launched his own company, Dupont Productions Limited, and shoots on location around the world, working in some of the last year he filmed a Panorama harshest environments going, including Documentary in the Falkland Islands the desert, jungle, up mountains, and in about the conflict in 1982. Nigel said: severe cold weather. ‘I was at Aldenham when Argentina Nigel said: ‘I shoot on location, mainly invaded the Falklands, and I remember documentaries, however I also shoot it very well.’ corporate videos, and offshore for the Oil When asked what project he is and Gas Industry on oil rigs in the Gulf proudest of, Nigel said: ‘I worked on a and the North Sea. I’ve been lucky programme called Beyond Boundaries – enough to have travelled the world. I’ve Across The Andes where we spent four been to some amazing places and met weeks filming seven disabled teenagers some incredible people.’ as they walked across the Andes in Nigel’s TV camera career started with Ecuador. They were amazing, and a real him shooting programmes including inspiration to me, then and now.’ Blind Date, Scrapheap Challenge, Wheeler After eight weeks spent in Colorado Dealers, River Cottage and Robot Wars, last year, Nigel went on to shoot Gold and since then, Nigel has spent time Rush for the Discovery Channel in the working for National Geographic and the Yukon, Canada, a location so remote that Discovery Channel, on programmes he only had access to wifi for two hours including Nasa’s Unexplained Files, and every other Sunday.

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and has also conducted large amounts More recently, in 2011, Tim developed a of research into the origins of brewing, range of Starker Beer in Malaysia, the first which he continues to do to this day. unfiltered and unpasteurised beers in During his time as a Product the region. In the same year, Tim partook Development Manager for Courage, in the Round The World Clipper between 1986 and 1996, Tim was in Thermopylae, a tour that took 14 charge of developing new products from different samples of Russian beer from original brief to finished commercial St. Petersburg to London, and tasted product, including finished packaging. them between and after transfer to note During this time, the products Tim the effects of travelling on the product, developed included the well-known including flavour and stability. This event Fosters Ice, Carlton and John Smith low received media coverage in both the UK Tim O’Rourke alcohol beers, and AKA, one of the first and Russia, and included a presentation The Brilliant Beer Company beers to use Champagne yeast. to the Parliamentary Beer Committee, In 1995, Tim set up his business, the and delegates from the Russian Embassy, After leaving Aldenham in 1969, Tim Brilliant Beer Company, designed to help including the Ambassador, his Excellency O’Rourke (P1964-69) went on to study candidates across the world prepare for Vladimirovich Yakovenko. at Stirling University, where he gained an their professional exams for the IBD. To Over the years, Tim has also provided Honours Degree in biology and date, Tim has helped educate over 4,000 training and worked as a consultant for chemistry. Following on from his studies, students in 17 countries across five various international brewing in 1972 Tim moved into the brewing continents, and has provided over 40 companies, including Heineken, industry, where he has remained for the years of continuous training towards IBD Kronenbourg and Coors, as well as last 45 years. exams. Having provided such an setting up the Interbrewery Regatta in Over the years, Tim has become a incredible service for so long, Tim told us: 1998, an event that involves 22 brewing Master Brewer, and has served on several ‘I’m 67 now, and feel it’s time I give up and Allied companies competing in an regulation committees, including the direct teaching. But I intend to continue annual sailing Regatta and Fellowship, Publications, Education and Training writing and carrying out research into which is still running today and gains Committee, and the Research and the origins of brewing.’ national media coverage. Development Committee. He has also In 2003, Tim helped to co-found the When asked what advice Tim would served as the Chairman of the UK Beer Academy, having produced and give to young entrepreneurs, he told us: Southern Section of the Institute of delivered ‘The Appreciation of Beer Course’. ‘Choose something that you can do, be Brewing and Distilling (IBD). Tim is a The Beer Academy delivers courses flexible – the market is always changing prolific writer on the topic of brewing, – many of them written and produced – and find yourself a good partner.’ and has been featured in books, by Tim – where people are taught about To find out more about Tim’s career, magazines and educational literature, beer tasting, paring and beer styles. head over to www.brilliantbeer.com.

Tony Laurenson 18 months and 27 venues (my Mum still Global Infusion Group has the list), I was a chef!’ After time spent working in the

OAs and Business OAs After leaving Aldenham at 16, Tony Merchant Navy, as a chef at Searcy’s, and Laurenson (M1971-75) decided to learn as chef and manager at a wine bar, Tony a trade rather than continue and had a conversation with friends, which complete A Levels. He enrolled in led to the topic of catering for musicians catering college, where he trained and when they went on tour. Tony told us: earned an Ordinary National Diploma ‘Most bands were either spending a (OND) (the equivalent of 2 A Levels), and small fortune eating out or cheaply then went into hotel and catering unhealthily every night, or, worse still, operations management. Whilst still at not eating at all. That conversation college, Tony was recruited as a Trainee prompted me to join one of the few tour Manager by a contract catering catering companies that were around at company, Bateman Catering (now part of the time.’ This is where the idea for Tony’s the Compass Group), where he worked company Eat To The Beat was born. He top artists and bands were soon enticed as a commis chef in industrial kitchens. said: ‘I saw an opportunity, and from my by delicious food, the friendly and Tony said: ‘I got to see a lot of venues and parents’ garage I started the company. professional approach and ultra-efficient kitchens, along with working with Our very first tour was with Joe Jackson logistics services.’ different chefs and management styles back in 1984, and we also toured with In 1988, following the success of Eat in a relatively short space of time. After Iron Maiden later in the same year. Other To The Beat, and many positive

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comments, Tony launched a corporate of our clients include Coldplay, Michael I am married to Bonnie May; how proud hospitality division of the company, McIntyre, the BBC, the , can a man be!’ called Chevalier Catering. Tony said: ‘By 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics and many Looking to the future, Tony’s plans are 1991, just three years later, Eat To The more. We are proud of every successful focused mainly on growth and Beat and Chevalier had blossomed such event and happy client!’ development both in the UK and that we decided to cover them with an GIG has also won numerous awards, overseas. Tony told us: ‘We’re also about overarching group name: Global Infusion including The Buckinghamshire to sign a deal that will see us create a Group.’ Since then, due to growth and Company of the Year, The Queen’s bespoke new headquarters, allowing us diversity, companies both here in the UK Business Award for Enterprise in to consolidate the UK businesses which and around the world have been International Trade in both 2014 and are currently operating out of two sites founded and added to the Global 2017, and was also named the UK’s in Chesham and . The two sites Infusion Group, including Bonnie May fastest growing independent foodservice have served the Global Infusion Group Food and Events, the sister company of company in Hospitality Magazine. team well for the past few years but as Eat To The Beat, and e2b, which focuses However, above all, Tony is proudest of with many old industrial sites the on brand logistics. There is also GIG Inc, his family: ‘I am the proud father of three facilities, height and access are no longer which operates in the US, and GIG Asia in sons and a daughter, my oldest two sons fit for purpose, so, as we enter a new China, as well as a presence in the work in our e2b Logistics division, my chapter, the time is right to consolidate Middle East. oldest son Matt is second in command and relocate once again. There are also When asked what he is proudest of to of this company. My youngest son is more global sporting events on the date, Tony told us: ‘We’ve hosted events currently selling wine in Sydney, Australia horizon. The future is looking like it’s all over the world, from Buckingham and our daughter Harriet May (P2013- going to be busy and fun!’ Palace and 10 Downing Street in London, 15) is at University doing Hospitality and To find out more about Tony’s various to the Dubai World Trade Centre, Great Events Management, and yes in the companies, visit: Wall of China and Hollywood Bowl. Some holidays she works for us! And best of all www.globalinfusiongroup.com.

getting ripped off by high street prices. launched in September 2018. We’re also There are millions of students out there going to be opening half of the platform who are struggling financially, and it’s to the public, but only on the buying getting in the way of their social life. side, so now anyone can request a task They may not have time, or want to get to be completed, but only students can

tied down to a part-time job, meaning accept the job.’ The boys will also be OAs and Business they aren’t preparing themselves for the launching the app in two more UK cities real world.’ This was where the idea for this year, but have long term plans to UniDosh began. launch it across the nation, and even into UniDosh is a student marketplace the United States. ‘The goal is to have app which provides a platform for UniDosh in every university across the buying and selling services between UK as the go-to place to earn money, students, allowing them to hire out their which would put us in good stead to skills and outsource tasks, such as DJing take it to America. With their close-knit Oliver Jacobs and Joe Black at parties, cleaning, cooking, and college campuses, we think US students UniDosh anything and everything else they want would pick up our idea pretty quickly.’ to do. Oliver said: ‘the majority of As to the future, Joe and Oliver still After leaving Aldenham, both Oliver students have a skill that they can offer, have plans of their own. ‘I still want to Jacobs (L2007-14) and Joe Black and with UniDosh they can not only earn qualify as an architect,’ Oliver said to us, (K2009-14) spent some time travelling some income by providing a service, but ‘and do my Masters. It’s something I’ve before heading to university. Oliver went also manage the process from start to wanted to do since I was young. But if all to Europe and Joe to Africa, where he finish, including marketing, controlling goes to plan, maybe some multi-million spent a year as a ranger at a safari park, their prices, and managing bookings. pound rival will buy us out. I wouldn’t after deferring his place at Manchester. Our app puts the students in control, mind that either; then I could do my After their travels, Oliver started his and lets them be their own boss.’ Masters without another student loan!’ degree in architecture at Nottingham Whilst UniDosh is still a fairly new If you want to learn more about Trent, whilst Joe attended Manchester company, having been launched in UniDosh, you can go to the website at University, where he studied animal Freshers’ Week at Manchester University www.unidosh.com, and also find them behaviour and ethnology. in September 2017, Joe and Oliver have on Facebook and Instagram. You can also Whilst at university, Oliver and Joe big plans for the future. ‘We’ve got lots get in touch with the boys directly: had a lightbulb moment. Oliver told us: coming up,’ the boys told us, ‘including a [email protected] and joseph@ ‘We were students, and sick and tired of complete re-design of the app, to be unidosh.com.

39 OA REVIEW | NEWS AND FEATURES

Simon Worrell – Book Published

In June 2018, OA Simon Worrall (K1964-69) — writing under the name S. C. Worrall – had his debut novel published: The Very White of Love. The story tells of his mother, Nancy, and her fiancé Martin Preston, following their whirlwind romance which travels from England to the battlefields of France.

hen asked what his in May 1940, just before Dunkirk. It was a Simon is currently working on a sequel inspiration for the novel was, gift to a writer: a beautiful love story, with to The Very White of Love, following WSimon told us: ‘This novel has a powerful World War Two setting.’ Nancy’s story through the war, and also a deeply personal inspiration. As I was Having read through the letters, telling his father’s story. sorting through my mother’s effects after Simon set about writing the fictional The Very White of Love is currently her death in 2005, I discovered in the background to these letters, which available in hardback, e-book and audio bottom of her wardrobe a chocolate box culminated in his debut novel. Since book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/ full of love letters, tied in tight knots, publishing his book, Simon has also been Very-White-Love-S-Worrall/ between my mother and her fiancé, featured in magazine, dp/0008217491. Martin Preston, the nephew of the poet speaking about his family in an article Robert Graves, who died in Hazebrouck entitled ‘Secret Love’. Rupert Vann Alexander – BBC Interview

In March 2018, Rupert Vann Alexander (M2009-11) was interviewed on the BBC, discussing a segment the show hosted on childhood obesity and his weight loss.

News and Features News upert told the OA Review: ‘The and particularly enjoyed learning about message of how to lose weight nutrition and how to train properly. After Rsafely, and to be fit, is something graduating from university with a degree I’m very keen on promoting.’ in Philosophy, Rupert’s friends and family When asked what started him on his recommended he look into a career in weight loss journey, Rupert said: ‘I’d personal training, which he pursued, and always been overweight, but towards he is now a qualified trainer. the end of my time at School and in my Since then, Rupert’s philosophy on first year at university, I started to gain training and weight loss has become a weight at a rapid rate. I was heading message he wants to share. ‘I’d love to his sights on opening up his own facility. home one weekend, and I could see my create something that can work He told us: ‘I’m also a qualified Strength reflection in the mirror at the train nationwide. Schools need to be and Conditional Coach, so would like to station. I couldn’t believe the size of my implementing weight training in all their work with high level athletes. In January face. I spent about three hours just sports. Stronger bones, stronger muscles, 2018, I coached three lifters at a pulling at my face in disbelief. After that, fitter school children – there are no powerlifting competition, and we took I resolved to make a change.’ negative consequences.’ two 1st place finishes and a regional Having trained hard for several Rupert will be continuing to work record. I’d like to continue doing things months, Rupert started to see results, hard at his health and fitness, and has set like that.’

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Soren West and the Appalachian Trail

At 75, Soren West (B1959-60) In 2017 and hroughout his hike, Soren posts regularly in his blog at is one of only 30 people over was accompanied by his beloved dog, hikersojo.com. Soren said: ‘I have stories the age of 70 to complete the Theo, a Golden Retriever. Soren said: that it will take me a lifetime to tell.’ Soren ‘Theo was amazing on the trail. He also took some 23,000 photos on the 2,190-mile trek that is the carried saddlebags and stuck to the path. trail, which he has since spent a long formidable Appalachian Trail. He never barked at other animals, time sorting. including the 13 bears we saw, dozens of ‘The AT made its way into my heart a oing through 14 states, and deer and a fawn two feet in front of us. long time ago,’ Soren told us. ‘My biggest having severe hazards and He simply followed me or led the way, achievement was to say “yes” to its call Gdangers along the way, content to be hiking with the one who upon my life, no matter the difficulties of including bears, venomous snakes, fed him and loves him.’ getting ready or walking the miles for poison ivy and extreme weather to name Having completed his almost ancient 250 days. My “yes” has made all the only a few, the Appalachian Trail is no goal, Soren now travels the United States difference.’ mean feat for any hiker, let alone one speaking about his experiences and Congratulations Soren and Theo! who is well above the average age of people who complete the Trail. Soren, who was born in Manhattan, New York, and attended Aldenham for one year on an exchange programme, has always dreamed of completing the Trail. He told us: ‘It was hiking 67 miles in the White Mountains of New Hampshire at age 12 in 1953 that planted the idea of a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. I hiked about 40 miles of the AT in New Jersey in 2004, but the time had come for the thru-hike that had been brewing for over 60 years.’ News and Features Beevor’s Reunion: Garrick Club

n 23rd October 2017, a group of OAs met at the Garrick Club in OLondon for a reunion. The group, all of whom entered into Beevor’s House in 1946, met at the Club courtesy of James Evans (B1946-51), who has been a member of the Garrick for over 50 years. Those present alongside James were James’ wife, Jette, Charles Thom (B1946-49), Angus Newton (B1946-50), Tom Williams (B1946-49) and John Edwards (B1946-51). Peter Purton (B1946-51) was also due to attend but was unable to do so. During the lunch, the group made a toast to the former members of the group, including the late John Woodrow (B1946-51), whose wife Daphne was in attendance, and the late Derek Oram (B1946-51) and Chris Arkell (B1946-52 & CR1962-93).

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Olly Football’s Rising Chamberlain Music Success Star he last year has been an ongratulations are in order to incredible one for OA singer- OA Xavier Amaechi (L2012-17), Tsongwriter Olly Chamberlain Cwho signed his first professional (L2004-09). Having spent time living and football contract with Arsenal in January performing in London, Olly has been 2018. Xavier, who had previously been featured on BBC Music Introducing, a training with Arsenal’s Academy, and also platform dedicated to supporting and played for England U16s in Brazil in 2016, discovering new, unsigned UK artists, signed the contract on his 17th birthday. and went on to play both Reading and Another OA, James Olayinka (K2014-17) Festivals in summer 2017. is also currently playing for the U18s, Bridgette Tetteh, of BBC Music having also been in the Arsenal Youth Introducing Berkshire, said of Olly: ‘He’s squad. We look forward to seeing more an incredible wordsmith and an amazing of you on the pitch, lads! guitarist, who started out impressing students with his soul sound whilst studying at Reading University. Olly and his band are definitely not a group to miss.’ Congratulations, Olly! Jonathan Clark OA Day Sunday 9th June 2019

All OAs welcome.

The focus of OA Day 2019 will be a School House Gaudy, hosted by Grant Cornock (CR2009-Present), Housemaster of Leeman’s House (School House Evens), and Lowri Jones (CR2010-Present), News and Features News Housemistress of Riding’s House (School House Odds).

Personal invitations will be sent early next year to OAs who were in School House Evens and Odds, or Leeman’s and Riding’s, and to all current and former staff who have been associated with these Houses.

The John Dewes Cricket Match has been scheduled to be played on OA Day, and a full programme of activities will be announced nearer the time. Many congratulations to Jonathan Clark (B1970-75), who has been appointed You are welcome to attend all day. Please register your intention President of the Chartered Insurance to come by email to [email protected], or you can contact us Institute, becoming the 108th President via phone on 01923 851612/4. in the Institute’s history.

42 OA REVIEW | LEST WE FORGET Lest we forget To mark the centenary of the end of the Great War, we take a final look at the sacrifices made by Aldenham School Masters and Boys for their country.

William Worsley Ashcroft (SH1892-95) for the strength and gallantry he been moved sooner. received his Cricket colours at Aldenham displayed whilst on the battlefield. Rowland Bourner never recovered in 1895. After leaving School, he went to In December 1917, Francis Bewsher from the injuries sustained in November work for Fuller, Moon and Fuller estate was chosen as Reconnaissance Officer to 1917, and died on the 28th March 1918, agents in Croydon. his Brigadier-General, a post he held until aged 27. He is buried in the Wimcreux In July 1915, Ashcroft received his his death on 18th April 1918, when he Communal Cemetery. commission to the Royal Irish Rifles, and suffered a gunshot wound to the head. was sent to France in October. The In the July 1918 edition of The Shortly after leaving Aldenham, in following year, he was transferred to the Aldenhamian, the following is noted as September 1915, Alan Robert Sinclair Machine Gun Corps, and in 1917, having been written by the Brigadier Campbell (P1913-14) went to Canada, Ashcroft was given his own company. General: ‘I cannot tell you how sorry I am where he enlisted in a cyclist corps. He After several days of fighting at the at the death of my Reconnaissance remained there in training camp until beginning of the German offensive in March, Officer. I don’t think I have ever had a the spring of 1917, when he was sent Ashcroft was put second in command of more promising officer. He was very to the Western Front. his battalion and given his majority. keen and very efficient, and would have Campbell was invalided home for a Major William Ashcroft died on April gone a long way if he had lived. He was a short time, having been involved in a gas 12th 1918, when he was leading his very good boy in every way. I can only attack at Passchendaele. Once he had battalion to a counter-attack during the say that I share your sorrow for a very recovered, he was sent into the Northern offensive, after his own Colonel charming boy who paid the price Signalling Corps and the Lewis Gunners. was killed. most gallantly.’ On 2nd September 1918, it was In the July 1918 edition of The Bewsher’s Commanding Officer wrote reported that Alan Campbell was Aldenhamian, William Ashcroft’s C.O of him: ‘Poor “Billy” Bewsher is a very wounded and missing near Arras. No wrote: ‘He was not only a great friend of great loss indeed; he was most popular further trace was found of him, although mine, but of every officer of the Division right throughout the Division, and there is a commemoration to him in the Lest we forget that knew him, and all ranks looked up though he had not been with us very Vimy Memorial. to him, respected and loved him. long, had endeared himself to everybody I could never have wished to have a who was privileged to know him. On Hugh Jerold Hammond (SH1905-08) finer gentleman, sportsman or soldier very many occasions of the hard fighting was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. H. H. with me, and his loss to the army is of the last month he had shown great Hammond. After leaving Aldenham, he indeed heavy. gallantry and devotion to duty.’ moved to London, and at the start of Major William Ashcroft left behind Francis Bewsher was 19 years old the First World War, was a student at the him a son and a daughter, and was when he died. Institute of Actuaries. mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s last In 1914, he was commissioned to the despatch. After leaving Aldenham, Rowland Royal Warwicks, and was promoted to Moody Nicholson Bourner (B1903-07), Lieutenant a year later. Francis Alexander Bewsher (M1913-15) youngest son of Arthur Charles Bourner In 1916, during the battle of the was a member of the School gym team, of Kent, became the secretary to Somme, Hammond was mortally and in September 1915, in his final year Thrutchley and Co. Ltd., of Manchester, wounded. It is noted in the July 1918 at Aldenham, was appointed Captain of London and Liverpool. He joined the edition of The Aldenhamian that McGill’s (then known as Gilbert’s House). Inns of Court OTC in September 1916, Hammond’s Commanding Officer wrote In August 1916, having been an and received his commission the of him: ‘He was always so cheerful under officer at , Bewsher was following summer, being sent to the whatever the circumstances, and you gazetted to the Royal Field Artillery, but front in August 1917. will, I am sure, realise what that means to was not sent to France until September Bourner was seriously wounded at us out here, and I shall never forget him 1917, owing to his age. Passchendaele on 10th November 1917, as long as I live. He was a splendid officer, Bewsher spent time fighting at Ypres and was only moved to Wimcreux and was always so reliable that I never and the battle of Cambrai, and received hospital from the casualty clearing felt at all worried if he was looking after a card of congratulation from the station some three weeks later, on 2nd my company for me.’ General commanding the division, December, as he had been too ill to have Hammond was 26 years old.

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William Ashcroft Francis Brewsher Reginald Howell Paul Johnston

Alfred Jones Homersham (M1904-09) and served with them in Egypt and then appointed to Temporary Inspector of the became an apprentice at Brown and Gallipoli, where he was wounded in Works, and given the rank of Lieutenant Sons, Brighton after leaving School, and August 1915. He was sent home, and after and sent immediately to France. on completing his time there, joined his he recovered, gazetted to the Herefordshire In July 1916, Philip returned to father in the business of Jones and Regiment in December 1915. England, and transferred to the Royal Homersham in Kingston. He was noted In early 1917, Howell was promoted to Flying Corps, and was sent back to as a keen rugby player and rower; he Lieutenant, and attached to the second France in November of the same year, played for the Hampstead Wanderers battalion of the 5th Gloucester Regiment, receiving the Military Cross in 1917. rugby club, and also was part of the with whom he was sent to France. In May 1917, Lavarack was promoted winning crew for the Dean College Cup Little is known of the rest of Howell’s to Flight Commander, and he flew for Fours at the Kingston Borough Regatta. service, other than that he died on the continuously until October, when he was When war broke out, Homersham 30th May 1918. His parents were unaware appointed Liaison Officer to the 9th enlisted in the second 25th London of his death until October of the same Brigade. He was recalled to England to Regiment, and he acted as a despatch year; the last postcard his mother take command of the 120th Active rider for several months before being received was dated the 2nd May 1918. Service Squadron, and was set to take his transferred to the first battalion in Howell’s parents received a letter squadron to France when he was killed October 1915, and sent to India. He was from his Colonel after his death, part of in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne in a flying later sent to Egypt, where he gained his which read: ‘I had only taken over the accident on the 15th May 1918. wings, and then ultimately to France, battalion a short time, but during the Lavarack is buried in Newcastle, at the where he was quickly promoted to period I knew your son I found him a St Andrew’s and Jesmond Cemetery. He Lieutenant. most capable and efficient officer, and left his wife, Lillian, and a son. Alfred Homersham was killed in his conduct during the battle was of the action whilst rescuing a pilot who was most gallant description.’ Lionel Francis Derek Lutyens (SH1909-11) being attacked by enemy aircraft. He Reginald Howell is buried in the received his commission to the 10th

Lest we forget we Lest gave his life so that his fellow officer Niederzwehren Cemetery in Kassel. Battalion Royal Fusilliers in November could return safely to our lines. He was 26. 1914, having enlisted in August. He was Paul Hedley Johnston (SH1911-15) was made Bombing Officer shortly Reginald Howell (B1906-10) was the gazetted to the EFA in the autumn of afterwards, and went to France with his only son of Thomas and Sophia Howell. 1916. In the summer of 1917, Johnston regiment in July 1915, where he fought In his final year at Aldenham, Howell was wounded in France, but later in the battles of Boiselle and Poziere. represented the School in the Public returned to battle. He was promoted to In September 1916, Lutyens Schools Lightweight Boxing Competition, Lieutenant in February 1918, and transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, and where he reached the semi-final round. returned to the Western Front, where he was an observer with the 11th squadron, The following year, he reached the finals was killed by a shell a few days later. as well as an aerial fighter, taking out a of the Middleweights Competition at the number of enemy fighters. Annual Meeting of the Belsize Club, a Major Philip James Vaughn Lavarack Four months later, Lionel returned to competition he won in 1912. (B1903-06) was a noted athlete during England, where he got his wings in June At the outbreak of war, Howell was his time at School, and in 1906 won the 1917, and joined an experimental working for a chartered accountant Bonsor Challenge Cup for coming first in squadron in Farnborough as a pilot in company. Owing to an eyesight problem, the 100, 300 and 400 yards races. August. He remained there until his which meant he had difficulty enlisting, At the start of the War, Lavarack was death on the 8th May 1918. Howell joined the London Mounted working in the Valuation Department at Lionel Lutyens’ Commanding Officer Brigade Field Ambulance in August 1914, Inland Revenue. In December 1914, he was wrote of him: ‘Derek had the highest

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Lionel Lutyens Joseph Rostern Gervase Walker admiration for the ideals for which he his commission in the following Dusseldorf. In September 1915, worked, and ultimately gave his life. The February. he enlisted in the King’s Own Royal experiment in question was far from a In June 1917, John gained his wings, Lancaster Regiment, and was given pleasant one, but he faced it with perfect and was posted to 61 Squadron at his commission to the Manchester equanimity, practically asking that the Rochford in October for the duties of Regiment in January 1916. job might be allotted to him.’ home defence and night flying. He went Rostern went to the front in March on to join Squadron 60 in France. 1917, and was killed in action on the Lionel Gallway Lutyens (SH1902-03) John MacVicker was reported missing 28th March 1918. Rostern’s Captain received his commission in 1911 with on the 22nd July 1918, and is believed to wrote of him: ‘He died as any soldier the EFA, and took part in various battles have been killed on or around that date. would wish to die, fighting to the last, during the War, including Mons and He is commemorated in the Sauchy- selling his life dearly; how proud we are Passchendaele. Cauchy Communal Cemetery, Pas de of him! I feel sure that the heroic and In 1915, Lutyens became a Battery Calais, France. Of his death, Macvicker’s splendid bravery he has shown must Commander, and later an acting Major, patrol officer said: ‘From what I can glean help us all.’ receiving the Military Cross in from boys who were in the scrap, he got A fellow officer wrote of him: ‘He was recognition of his bravery when he on the tail of one Hun, when another got one of the most sturdy and brave heroes fought 60 days and nights continuously on his, and he was last seen fighting like we have had in the battalion. Few of the at the Battle of the Somme. the “boy” man he was to the last. My great stories that one reads could touch the Lest we forget Lionel Lutyens is noted as having regret is that I was not there. Dear old story of his fidelity and bravery if it could been home for Christmas in 1917, but boy, his absence came as a great blow, be written, and you have every reason to returned to France to take command of but ‘twas softened by the knowledge be proud of his magnificent behaviour a brigade in the absence of his Colonel. that he had got his Hun, and was when the vital question came to be He was killed in action, having been hit fighting against odds, and though we answered. The men loved him, and speak by a shell on his way back from an are sorrowful, we are proud, for he was a in glowing language of his wonderful observing station, on the 6th January “man”. I cannot tell you how I cared for him. leadership and undaunted courage.’ 1918. He was 28. He was, proved again and again when It is noted in the July 1918 leading my patrol, a boy without fear, William Leslie Smith (M1906-10) Aldenhamian, that Lutyens’ Colonel full of enthusiasm, and a splendid pal.’ received his School colours in football in wrote to Mrs. Lutyens, saying: ‘Even you, Another comrade wrote: ‘I always 1908, and was working for wheat brokers his mother, can have little idea how looked on him as my best friend there, the Harris Brothers before he was sent splendid he was as a soldier and a man.’ and with another fellow who is still with to war. 61 at Rochford, we formed a trio who In 1913, Smith joined the Artists, and John Edward Churchill MacVicker always went about together. Jack is the received his commission in the (P1913-15) was a noted sportsman most beautiful character I have ever Worcestershire Regiment in 1915, and whilst at School, and was given his been lucky enough to meet, was sent to France. He was promoted to School football colours in 1913, and his extraordinarily cheerful and happy, a the position of Lieutenant in August of cricket colours a year later. He became a magnificent pilot, and full of pluck, he the same year, became acting Captain in Lance-Corporal in the Officer Preparatory was indeed just as near my ideal of a July 1917, and was awarded the Military Course (OPC) in September 1914. man as it is possible to get.’ Cross in 1918. After leaving School, MacVicker On the 13th April 1918, William Smith served in the London OPC, and was After School, Joseph Norman Rostern was reported wounded and missing in transferred to the Royal Flying Corps (P1907-11) went to London University, Ypres, and was presumed killed on that cadet school in October 1916, receiving but completed his studies at Tours and date. He is commemorated in the

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Ploegsteert Memorial in Belgium. After leaving Aldenham in 1913, Gale In December 1940, despite not having Smith’s superior, Major Donaldson, entered immediately into the British held a field position for some time, wrote of him: ‘He and I were much Army, joining the Royal Artillery. He Richard Gale took command of the 5th together in the Battalion, and I mourn his wanted to proceed to Royal Military Battalion of the Leicestershire Regiment, loss as a real friend. If he had got Academy in Woolwich, but did not have a part of the Territorial Army, in the through, it was my intention to the qualifications or physical strength position of Lieutenant Colonel. In the recommend him again. But he has been requirements to gain entry, so instead summer of 1942, Gale was given called on for the supreme sacrifice, and he followed his father into a career in insurance. command of the 1st Parachute Brigade met his end like an English gentleman.’ Determined to become a British Army by General Sir Alan Brooke. Nine months Officer, Gale took to studying and regular later, Gale’s brigade was chosen to take In April 1915, Gervase Maplecroft Walker physical training classes to improve his part in the Bruneval Raid – also known (P1912-14) was gazetted to the chances of getting into the Army. as Operation Biting – a raid on a German Leicestershire Regiment, and was promoted Gale was 18 when the First World War radar station in France, the aim of which to the position of Lieutenant in January broke out in August 1914, and was still was to seize enemy equipment. The raid 1917. In the same year, He was mentioned deemed to be below physical and was successful, with no loss of life, in Sir Douglas Haig’s despatches. medical standards to sign up. After much although a few casualties. On April 15th 1918, Walker was put in hard work, Richard Gale finally gained After the success of commanding the charge of a company in the front entry to Royal Military College, 1st Parachutes, and the training and trenches during particularly ferocious Sandhurst, in the summer of 1915. organising of officers he achieved, Gale fighting. The trench was hit by a shell, He was later commissioned to the held a post in the War Office, as Deputy causing Walker to be partially buried by Worcestershire Regiment in December Director of Staff Duties, and was then the rubble. He was being dug out by his 1915 in the position of Second quickly promoted to Director of Air. The comrades when a second shell hit and Lieutenant. Gale immediately signed up aim of this position was to devise a policy killed him. He was 21. for a training course on machine guns; he between the Army and the RAF on how was accepted and sent to the Machine to utilise airborne forces, as well as come Brodie Wyatt Wilson (B1907-12), eldest Gun Training Centre in Grantham. Upon up with solutions to aircraft shortages. son of the Reverend H. B. Wilson, was a his arrival, he discovered that he had not On September 5th 1943, Gale and the Junior and Senior Platt Scholar at School. been accepted to a training course, but, in rest of his division were sent home, three After leaving Aldenham, he went to fact, accepted into the Machine Gun Corps months after they went to the Front. The Keble College, Oxford, and on the (MGC), and was posted with them to the division had sustained considerable outbreak of war, joined the 18th Royal Western Front in the summer of 1916. casualties, and soldiers – Gale included Fusiliers, with whom he was sent to During his time at the Front, Richard – were returned to get rest and France in October 1915. Gale fought in the battles of the Somme recuperation. In December, Gale was In December of the same year, Wilson and Ypres Salient, as well as the capture appointed to the First Allied Airborne was wounded and sent home, returning of Wyteschaete and the Passchendaele Army, and became deputy to the to France in July 1916, and again was offensive. He was promoted to the rank American commander, Lieutenant wounded and sent home in October. In of Lieutenant on the 1st July 1917, but General Lewis H. Brereton. April 1917, upon returning to health, was sent home to England shortly after, In May 1943, Gale was once more Wilson received a commission to the having been suffering from mental and promoted, this time to the rank of acting

Lest we forget we Lest 19th London Regiment, and by the end physical exhaustion. He returned to Major General, and took charge of the of the year, had joined the RAF. France in January 1918, and went on to 6th Airborne Division, which a year later In April 1918, Brodie Wilson was sent be awarded the Military Cross during the took part in Operation Tonga, the British to France as an observer. He died on the Spring Offensive for his bravery. Gale was codename for the airborne Normandy 23rd September 1918, when his machine promoted to Captain towards the end of Landings in June 1944. This was the first gun was shot down, and he went to the First World War, and continued to British airborne division deployed into rescue a comrade who was in trouble. fight at the Front until the end of the war battle through aerial means alone, and He was 25. on the 11th November 1918. Gale was tasked with formulating plans When the war ended, Gale was sent and tactics for the operation. Gale and Survivors to India, volunteering to join the 12th his battalion also took part in the D-Day General Sir Richard ‘Windy’ Gale Battalion MGC in 1919. He remained in landings, with Gale himself landing in (SH1911-13) was born in London, but India until January 1936, having had Normandy via glider on the morning of spent the early years of his life in further training at India’s Machine Gun the 6th June 1944, his battalion having Australia and New Zealand, as his father Training School, and also going to Staff been part of Operation Deadstick, went out there to work for an insurance College in Quetta, where he graduated codename for the capture of the broker. They returned in England in 1906, as a Staff Officer in 1933. Upon his return Bénouville canal bridge, which was a when Gale was sent to the Merchant home to England, Gale was promoted to success. Gale was awarded with the Taylors’ School, and to Aldenham for the position of Major, and went to work Distinguished Service Order in August higher education. for the War Office. 1944 for his part in the Normandy

46 OA REVIEW | LEST WE FORGET

Landings and D-Day, and in particular for During the First World War, Pickthorn was but was shot and wounded by Australian his part in Operation Tonga. appointed to the rank of Lieutenant troops behind the British Lines. The In the final months of the Second (temporarily) on the 1st June 1916, and captive was Prince Friedrich Karl of World War, Gale commanded the Ist later that month was appointed to the Prussia, who later died from the wounds Airborne Corps, and was promoted to position of an observer. he sustained. Major General in early January 1945, and Four days into his new position, on On the 26th April 1917, Charles was held the position of acting Lieutenant the 29th June 1916, Charles Pickthorn awarded the Military Cross, for his General from the 24th May. Shortly after was in-flight when his pilot, Lieutenant devotion and gallantry whilst attacking VE Day, Gale was sent to India, where the Vaisey, lost consciousness after being hostile aircraft. He was promoted on the Japanese were still fighting, taking over badly wounded in flight combat. 1st July to the position of Lieutenant in command of the 6th Airborne division Pickthorn, whilst sending a message in the Army Service Corps, and six months once again, where he remained until the morse code to his superiors requesting later, on 8th January 1918, was appointed end of the war. medical aid, managed to fly and land the as a flight commander, becoming a After the war, Richard Gale went on to plane single-handedly back to base. For temporary major on the 30th April. hold posts in Egypt and Palestine, but this incredible feat, Pickthorn was In the final month of the war, came back to England to hold the post of mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s despatches. Pickthorn took over command of the No. Deputy Supreme Allied Commander for After this, Charles Pickthorn retrained 84 Squadron. The day before the end of Europe for NATO. He retired after two as a pilot, and on 31st October 1916, was the First World War, Pickthorn destroyed years in the position, in 1960. Gale held appointed to the position of flight officer, a Fokker D.VII whilst flying a Royal Aircraft various ceremonial posts, including being posted in No. 32 Squadron, and Factory SE.5a. The plane remains in a being aide-de camp (general) to Queen flying the DH.2 single seat fighter plane. flyable condition, and is currently located Elizabeth II from 1954-57, and Colonel- Pickthorn had his first aerial victory on at the Old Warden Aerodrome, as part of Commandant of the Parachute Regiment. the 27th January 1917, when he – along the Shuttleworth Collection. Sir Richard Gale died in July 1982 in with Captain James Robb, and After the War, Pickthorn went on to Kingston on Thames. There is a bust of Lieutenants Frank Billinge and H. D. Davis be placed in Germany and Chile, and him located at School. – helped destroy a Type C reconnaissance was elected as a member of the Royal aircraft in the area of Courcelles, in Aero Club, taking part in various races Flying Ace Major Charles Edward Murray Pas-de-Calais, France. A month later, between instructors, and also a 14 mile Pickthorn (M1910-11) was born in Ilford, Pickthorn took out a Type D aircraft over speed flying course in 1928, which Essex, and was the younger brother of Bucquoy, and on the 6th March, Pickthorn won. He also founded the Sir Kenneth William Murray Pickthorn destroyed an Albatros D.I, being Brooklands School of Flying with Captain. (M1904-10), who was an academic wounded in the process. H. D. Davies, whom he met during his and politician. Pickthorn was promoted to the time in the War. He served as a flying Lest we forget After leaving School in 1911, position of flight commander with the instructor at Brooklands, and represented Pickthorn was commissioned as a second temporary rank of Captain on the 21st Brooklands at the King’s Cup Race in 1930. Lieutenant in the Army Service Corps on March 1917. On that same day, he forced Charles Pickthorn died on 3rd March 8th February 1915, and was confirmed in down another Albatros D.I. The pilot tried 1938, in Orford, Suffolk, after a long and this rank in March 1916. to evade being captured by the allies, illustrious career. © National Library of Scotland Library © National

The arrival of allied troops in a village was cause for great excitement. Once troops entered a village they were often housed with local families. This was a welcome opportunity for rest and a diversion for the locals.

47 OA REVIEW | NEWS AND FEATURES

School visits

Owen Collier (B2012-14) returned to School to give an informative talk to Sixth Form students on a career in finance. Owen is now employed on the graduate training programme at Bank of Dr Nick Schindler (K1998-2005) came America, and his talk was greatly enjoyed back to School to speak to a selection by those who attended. of students who showed an interest in having careers in the field of medicine. Nick spent an afternoon fielding questions, and discussing his job at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Stephen Wright and Lydia Chapman with Andy Williams (CR2009-Present)

Head Boy and Head Girl 2011-12 Stephen Wright (K2007-12) and Lydia Chapman (P2010-12) were reunited at Aldenham in November 2017. Stephen Carl Failmezger (M1982-83) and Simon came in to speak to Sixth Formers about Clark (M1979-84) also came back to visit, a potential career in engineering, and and take a look around McGill’s House. Lydia was at Aldenham to meet her new

News and Features News mentee, as part of the OA Society Mentoring Scheme.

Charlotte Spillman (P2007-11) returned Chairman of the OAFC, Martyn Berg to Aldenham to give a talk to the Sixth (B1989-94) also dropped into School Kwang Choi (R2006-10) – known to Form on working in marketing in March with his family for an interview with most at School as Joshua – also returned 2018, fielding questions and giving an James Fowler. His daughter is looking to to Aldenham, dropping in on a visit to informative insight into her career. move to Aldenham School. the UK from his home in South Korea.

48 OA REVIEW | OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES

Obituaries and Tributes Deaths House and dates at the School Died G Alexander SHO1950-54 21 December 2017 D C R Allen P1945-48 Date Unknown J G Bayly SH1930-1932 1980 J D B Brow SHO1944-47 14 October 2017 J Carey-Brander M1945-49 1 December 2017 R F Chadney SHE1940-42 30 May 2018 P J Croft K1962-66 7 April 2018 B P Davies SHO1947-50 9 August 2017 A J Dickinson SHE1957-52 3 July 2018 C J Dodson B1948-53 7 May 2018 J M Down M1968-71 5 March 2018 P C Dredge SHE1941-44 7 May 2017 M J Falkner-Lee P1940-44 29 May 2018 N E L Foxell B1945-49 23 July 2018 P W Gomersall SHE1942-44 26 August 2017 G E Gowlett B1940-43 July 2014 A E Grosset SHE1944-48 16 April 2018 W J Gusterson M1955-59 2 September 2017 O H Harlow P1975-79 1 January 2018 S N Hatcher SHO1945-49 22 July 2012 A B K Hawkins M1954-59 28 December 2017 M R C Higgens SHO1955-59 28 January 2018 B M Hunt SHO1951-55 4 September 2017 R F Inness SHO1932-35 Approx 2007 C J Kershaw SHO1948-53 25 May 2018 J A Laird SHO1981-84 24 January 2018 J R Leech P1941-46 20 November 2015 C G W Lodge P1940-43 Date Unknown P G Mattinson M1956-60 4 March 2018 P B Mellor B1961-64 5 June 2018 W M T Miller SHO1941-45 19 April 2005 R M Morgan SHO1948-52 4 June 2018 R C S Nathan B1970-75 22 May 2017 C E Nicholson B1938-40 11 November 2017 M E H Ost M1951-55 24 October 2017 D R Pickett K1977-76 13 June 2018 A R Pike P1959-64 2 May 2018 D G Reading P1945-50 24 March 2017 A J Reeve SHO1956-61 26 July 2018 M R Rowe SHO1952-57 21 November 2017 O F Shafqat B1965-68 2 August 2016 J R Shaw M1938-41 8 March 2018 Obituaries and TributesObituaries D R Shorter SHO1934-38 24 October 2016 D P A Smith P1960-65 8 December 2017 M J L Tubbs M1941-43 28 October 2017 S C Varrall SHO1965-69 31 January 2018 P Vincent P1936-40 25 July 2018 R F Vincent SHE1945-50 8 September 2018 G B Vine B1951-57 22 August 2018 R M Welton SHO1940-44 23 May 2018 K D Williamson SHO1948-52 2 May 2018 D J Winton K1968-71 18 April 2018 R J Wolfe B1966-68 9 August 2018 R T Woor SHO1948-51 17 April 2017 R L Wynne-Jones SHE1939-44 2 October 2017

49 Obituaries and Tributes pulse of the school, knew what was pulse oftheschool, knew help ifrequired. Hehadhis fingeronthe would always beavailable to adviseor not goingto interfere too much,but me thatIwasthere to doajob;hewas madeitimplicitlyclear toway Chris Iso appreciated the Department. Aldenham to teach intheLanguages nobadthing.act, where stood they and how should they exactly knew they school sanctions; culprits, ratherthanjustusegeneral express hispersonaldispleasure to the wasready Chris tosportsmanship, behaviour or level of work, notably failedto achieve acertain the Common Andifstudents Room. ratherthansimplysitin or tennis courts at lunch-timewithstudentsonthefives He would happilyspend30minutes forand concern academicstandards. withattention tofriendliness detail it ispossibleto combinegenuine demonstrated to allthatinteaching the schoolmeantsomuchto him.He andthat had theirbestinterests atheart, thatChris usually necessary,knew asthey has not?–butthismannerwasnot forcefully to hisstudents–whichteacher common sense. as expense ofwhatwasknown health andsafety measures, atthe abouttheinvasionconcern ofrecent Iguesshemay have fact, feltIn nolittle imposedregulations.lean onexternally ratherthansimplyown moralprinciples stand onhisown feet, two andfollow his Master,School amanstrong enoughto I remember asareally Chris dedicated (CR1990-2006)David Gooderick by many people. on everybody. Iamsure hewillbemissed manandhadagreat influence kind very amazing memberofstaffwhowasalso a time atAldenhamandhewasan wasthere throughout Arkell myChris to hearsuchsadnews. sorry I amvery David Hayes (SHO1963-68) . the lastissueofOAReview Following onfrom madein thetributes Chris ArkellTributes I remember when in1990Ijoined may occasionallyhaveChris spoken

OA REVIEW a bottleofwine. Hewasoneofthefew four ofusbefore lunchwhere we drank meetingsfor departmental held weekly and was alsomy Head ofDepartment Jenny to were me. Chris kind extremely Aldenham andlived inandChris Kennedy’s in1983at whenIarrived I wasanAssistant House Tutor in (CR1983-86) Alison Wilcockson (néeHopkinson) appreciatively. Agreat loss. andrecall them kindnesses his wholecareer. ofhispersonal Iknow whichspannedvirtually contribution matters, avast extra-curricular pastorally, andinother inGames so muchto Aldenham:academically, which waswidelyappreciated. Hegave ironic andoften person, withasharp wit was aconstructive, helpfulandkindly passing. Heepitomised dedication. He saddenedto hearofChris’sI wasvery Catherine Moorehead (CR1982-99) heard thenews. to have sorry with you, Chris, andvery top Pleased ofpriorities. to have worked exemplified by Chris, willstillbeatthe fundamentalvalues,those like certain of technology andbureaucracy. Ihope has moved muchmore into therealms of opinion. distance andrespectdifferences how his to keep going on,butalsoknew Chris Arkell withcurrent HeadofBeevor’s Pennycook Sam (CR2009-Present) The years have goneby, education

| OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES 50

having lost thebattleto save thetree. whoputanRIPnoticeonit it wasChris oak wascutdown intheschoolgrounds, gardener.knowledgeable When anold andanother sideto him,thekeen before Aldenhamandsaw we left he retired from beingaHousemaster house andlovely garden in when andJennyvisited intheirown Chris andIstillquoteas aMaster) that. We Wilcockson (CR1982-86) (alsoatAldenham you willbealright’. husbandMichael My atmosphere withpupilsof ‘follow meand saying thatyou aimto create an Ialways rememberedsupportive. him honestand and would bevery in teaching whenyou firststart was like older masters whoremembered whatit Arkell whichstays withyou forArkell ever. where Ihave beenlivingfor over 35years. professional inFrance, steps working me inmore thangoodstead for my first grounding inthelanguagewhichstood at Aldenham. Hegave meanexcellent who taughtmeFrench for several years Arkell ofChris goodmemory I have avery (B1965-1968) Simon Wesley as ateacher. respect from my three years atAldenham him withagreat dealofaffection and cultured andintelligent. Iremember but fair, andgentlemanly, always kind strict of oldfashionedschoolmaster: For meherepresents thebesttype It is the gift of a teacher like Chris Chris ofateacher isthegift like It

OA REVIEW | OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES

James Evans (B1946-51) Michael King (SHE1960-65) Tim Collings (SHE1963-66) Sorry indeed to hear of Chris Arkell’s It is very sad indeed to hear of the death I remember him well. He taught me death. He was pretty well an exact of Chris Arkell. In all my association with French, my second lesson at Aldenham contemporary of mine in Beevor’s House him he displayed wisdom, charm and on my first full day, Saturday 19th January and later at Cambridge, where he was integrity – even in the face of great 1963 in, what was then called, the new at Selwyn College. Although I was at provocation. Always a delight to be in the block, Mr. David Robertson’s (CR1950- another College (St. Catharine’s), we met company of such a talented and erudite 85) room. I recall a kindly man who up quite a lot there, as often as not for a man who was such a wonderful servant clearly knew what it was like to be away game of squash. Friends will, I am sure, to the school, the Common Room and at school for the first time. remember him with much affection for the OA Society. I will remember him with his kind and gentle nature. the greatest fondness. CCF Review Aldenham School’s Officer Training Corps (OTC) – or Combined Cadet Force (CCF) as it is now known – was set up in 1908, although the Rifle Range at School was built six years earlier, in 1902.

The CCF was made up of Army, Navy and his service record implies. Besides all the Air Force contingents and now is just achievements mentioned he also ran the Army and Air Force, and throughout its CCF (Army Section) on Fridays at the presence at Aldenham has had weekly School and was involved in many CCF training sessions and frequent trips around the UK. I was just 14 when inspections held in the School Quad. I was encouraged to join a week’s CCF Mike Johnson (SHO1964-69) recalls of walking and climbing trip to the his time as a naval cadet: ‘I learnt to shoot, Cairngorms in the summer holidays. tie knots, use charts, fold bell bottoms, On Midsummer’s Day, while climbing march, and to polish brass, blanco belts Ben Macdui, the weather turned to snow and gaiters. I also gained an appreciation and freezing winds and Chris used his he first Commanding Officer of the English countryside and sea, which calm and leadership skills to lead the of the OTC was Colonel John I have passed on to my three sons.’ Aldenham troop safely back to our TWadmore (CR1902-23), who was Chris Arkell (B1946-52 and CR1962- camp - however another school group noted as having ‘combined a keen love 1993), who passed away last year, was was not so fortunate and spent several of discipline with an experienced and heavily involved in the CCF throughout hours on the slopes with most of them exhaustive knowledge of all practical his time at Aldenham, serving as suffering from exposure and work’, as well as being a ‘methodical’ Commanding Officer from 1967-72. eventually being rescued by the man. To date, Aldenham’s CCF has had Speaking of his memories of Chris Arkell, emergency services.’ a total of 20 Commanding Officers, Paul Willoughby (SHO1961-65) recalled: Mike Johnson (SHO1964-69) also including Godfrey Mead (SH1905-10 ‘Chris was a Lieutenant in the CCF and recalled: ‘Chris joined up with Kenneth & CR1914-44), second Housemaster of probably looked forward to the end of Barnard (CR1956-1991) and Keith

Paull’s, current CO Lee Flindall (CR2008- Friday afternoon’s drill practice as much Wheeler (CR1963-69) to take a group of and TributesObituaries Present) and Major Geoffrey Crawshaw as we did – we were both quite unsuited CCF volunteers for two weeks in April to (CR1947-74), who remains the longest- to military life! In 1963 I spent a week Snowdonia where every day we would serving CO in Aldenham’s history, under canvas with the CCF in Thetford, set off to the song “Climb Every spending a total of nine years in the Norfolk, and Chris was one of the two position during the 1950s, giving up the officers in charge of us – the other was post only when he retired from the CCF. Arthur Hearnden (CR1959-67). That was Whilst Aldenham’s CCF is credited real ‘Boys Own’ fun, firing live ammunition with being over 100 years old, it didn’t with a Bren gun on the ranges, throwing become formally known as the CCF until Thunder Flashes in the night exercises 1948, when the Combined Cadet Force and tackling him to the ground as a was founded nationally in the UK. This supposed enemy agent.’ occurred when Hugh Kirkwood Dick Hall (K1969-74) said of Chris: ‘He (CR1946-72) was Commanding Officer. was one of the totally committed OAs as

51 Obituaries and Tributes Molly told us: Molly ‘James Fowler Ihad knew Flight Lieutenant intheRAFsection. itwasreinstated,after asa andserved joinedtheCCFMolly around sixmonths former OA Manager. &Development (Staff 2001-11), Barton the helpofMolly enthusiastic response from staff, andwith Headmaster 17 years later in2006, by current disbanded in1991,butwasrelaunched these days, butitwasthen!’ from Aldenhamwould notbeallowed lyingontents in thebackoflorry andaLandRover.Bedford lorry Travelling equipment andfood along witha at thefoot of Tryfan. We were given the orbivvying whilst campinginBeddgelert Mountain” from ofMusic, theSound Aldenham School’s CCF was James Fowler following an OA REVIEW training activities.’ inadventurous part aircraft andto take flying inhelicopters andsmalltraining experience to also many opportunities andofficers. airmen serving There were aboutallthetradesavailable tolearnt discovered whatlife intheRAFand islike cadets the stations where once again camps, staying atRAF annual long week weapon useandcare. Ialsoorganised and offieldcraft allaspects learnt to Army trainingcampswhere cadets with theRAFandArmy sections,usually the CCF, in life of andcombinedfieldtrips aspects thevarious stations to experience flying,trips field tomoreday termly RAF to thecadets RAFstationsto trips take organising numerous trips, incudingday CCF. Iagreed andbecameinvolved in if Iwould beinterested inassistingthe for ten me years andasked Naval Service) inthe served WRNS (Women’s Royal

| OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES 52 for thephotos usedinthisarticle. Here’sInspection. to many more years! passedtheBiennialwhen they inspected, mostrecently2017, inOctober are stilltrainingtogether ten years on. local schoolQueens’, schools andthetwo School’s CCF with went into partnership the bridge!’ and Iwasableto getoutfrom under in theminibusagainsothatitlowered and getthecadetsto comeandsit nottoo far) I hadto walkback(luckily minibus Igotstuckunderthebridge. much lighter andtherefore higher their destinationandreturning witha however having dropped thecadetsat minibus easilypassedunderthebridge, a smallbridge. Dueto theload equipment whenourroad took usunder ground fullofcadetsandalltheir itacrossI wasdriving anarmy training getting aminibusstuckunderbridge. mostmemorableanecdote was‘My was ofhertimeintheCCF, said: Molly whatherfondestWhen asked memory A special thank you to Mike Johnson A specialthankyou to Mike The CCF continuesto beregularly November 2008,AldenhamIn

OA REVIEW | OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES

Alan Dickinson Stephen

Alan James Dickinson (SHE1947-52) Samaritans and also served for 20 years was born and brought up in Cheshire, as the charity’s North West Regional Nicholas and followed his elder brother, Treasurer. For a time, until ill health Ian Dickinson (SHE1947-49) at a time caused retirement, he was a Trustee Hatcher when there was a regional connection and then Chairman of the national through George Riding (Headmaster charity Migraine Action. He also worked Stephen Hatcher (SH1945-49), loving 1933-49), also from the north. Alan in mental health as a member of a husband and father, besotted played football and hockey for the panel reviewing cases of patients grandfather... A journalist by trade, but School, and continued with sport detained compulsorily. always happiest in the garden with his when he went up to Selwyn College, Alan was married to Dorothy for roses, following England in the Test, or Cambridge, where he was Captain 58 years. They had three children, and settled in his Parker Knoll, Cabernet in of college hockey. for the greater part lived in Sandiway, hand, while Callas soared around him. At Selwyn, Alan read law and was Cheshire, where for some years Alan was Six years already, but always in our hearts. subsequently called to the bar. His career a member of the Deanery and Diocesan was spent mainly with the Manchester Synods and the Parochial Church Council. Ship Canal Company, where he became He always spoke of Aldenham with Company Secretary. In voluntary work, great pride and affection, and much Warden Alan was the Director of a branch of enjoyed OA reunions. Thomas Anthony Michael Miller

Warden Thomas Miller (SH1945-49) Hawkins Tubbs passed away on the 19th April 2005, Michael Tubbs (M1941-43) left following a period of poor health. He Aldenham and served in the Royal lived most of his adult life in Walton on Artillery in the Middle East during his Thames, Surrey, and was married to my National Service. He then joined the mother, Francoise, until his death. He family jewellery business, Jay & attended Cambridge University, where I Attenborough, in the West End until the believe he read English and Spanish, and firm wound up in the early 1960s. where I hear he was heavily involved in He then took the old Satchells jewellery the Cambridge Footlights. Warden also business in the Oakway in . joined the RAF for a brief time, where he He ended his working life in office work provided Physical Training services. It was, and accounts. almost certainly, during this time that he He had married my mother, Brenda in discovered his passion for aircraft. His 1949, but that ended in divorce in 1979. knowledge was phenomenal, and we He then married Pamela Steele, née have kept a large selection of the model Anthony Hawkins (M1954-59) passed Brown, and they lived in and aircraft that he painstakingly created. away peacefully on 28th December 2017 then the New Forest. Pam died of During his career, Warden held posts at home with his family and animals. He ovarian cancer in 2002 and Dad in advertising and copywriting, and and TributesObituaries had many fond memories of sport from continued to live down there. latterly he published a book entitled Poor his school days at Aldenham. Before His health began to fail in the last Tom. He had a wonderful way with the taking over the family business, The couple of years and he moved into a rest English Language. London Permanent, he worked at C&G home in October 2016. He suffered a Warden and his brother, Peter Lamont Building Society/Lloyds Bank. He also stroke in October 2017, and died ten Miller (SHO1945-49), remained very volunteered at Gloucestershire Wildlife days later. close, and we have kept many of the Trust, as well as being an active member Michael is survived by his sons, letters that they wrote to their parents of the village community in Apperley, Charles Tubbs (SHE1969-1973) and whilst they were at School. Peter, who Gloucestershire. James Tubbs (SHE1970-74). went on to teach biology at Oxford He was a beloved husband to Jackie; University, died on 24th March 1996. devoted father to Andrew, Sally, Anna Written by James Tubbs. and Elizabeth; and Bampi to Amanda, Written by Sophie Parker, daughter of Matthew, Ben, Freya and Luke. Warden Thomas Miller.

53 Obituaries and Tributes Oliver Harlow younger brothers Patrick andDerek washisparents’It intention thathis Shaw (M1934-39)toMichael Aldenham. St Faith’s, hefollowed hiselderbrother andafter 1924inCambridge inApril born ShawJohn Roderick (M1938-41)was John Roderick Shaw especially on the Norfolk Broads.especially onthe Norfolk hair-raising stories. Healsoloved sailing, and potholing, aboutwhichhetold suchasskydiving, caving activities tried including hisbeloved Terry Pratchett. He and Dragons, aswell asfantasyliterature, taste for fantasygames, suchasDungeons Whilst atuniversity, Oliver developed a study Physics andElectronics Engineering. when hewent to to UMIST inManchester on. when itwasturned house. The wholehousethrummed of placeinhisbedroom atourparents’ soithadpride computer whenheleft, Monopoly. gaveThe School Oliver the it andthenreprogrammed itto play soOliver,work, agedabout16,repaired domestic chestfreezer. The Elliottdidnot computer, whichwasthesize ofa Club, where hada1960sElliott903 they intheComputerat AldenhamSchool Oliver Harlow (P1974-79)found hisniche Oliver’s courseinlife set wasclearly OA REVIEW

principal interestprincipal inclassicalmusic, and, asoccasionedby his and Norfolk, again to in1999. Thelma Mills in 1996,sohesubsequentlymarried motherdied 1954 andSimonin1957.My in and shebore sons, himtwo Martin position. career, retiring from aseniormanagerial he spenttherest ofhisprofessional hereturned to thebankwhereService, After beingreleased Majesty’s from His 1942 until1947,largely Africa. inSouth War intheRAFfrom where heserved interrupted by theSecond Bank, World he continuedto play into the1950s. association football, which andhockey cricket, principally enjoyed sports, healsowell astheacademicsubjects andas not outstandingschoolcertificate admission heachieved anadequate if World War prevented this. hisown By family circumstances theSecond during should dulyfollow himbutachange in beloved Elliott903followed himto the Computer, basedatBletchley Park. His volunteer for The of National Museum would have understood. also because, quite honestly, noneofus becauseofitsclassified nature, butpartly muchabouthiswork, Oliver never spoke and lotsofothercomplicated electronics. more clever thingswithresistors, diodes, inasimilarfield, work new ever doing foundproject wascancelled, butquickly upsetwhentheNimrod He wasvery ontop-secret defence projects.working to be at the cutting edge of development, Early Airborne Warning System. Heloved ontheGEC/Marconi Nimrod working to himthroughout hismany illnesses. together. Many were agreat support in touch and regularly went onholiday whilstatuniversity,friends whokept group of He developed aclose-knit John Shaw John lived inKent, Wiltshire, in1953 Ottewill Kathleen He married He commencedacareer withLloyd’s His passion forHis computers ledhimto Oliver’s was university firstjobafter

| OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES 54

Garth Harlow (P1971-76) Garth (P1967-72), Written by Oliver’s brothers, Harlow Roger was ignored. logic. Anything thatdidnotinterest him down andsaw itwithastripped prism, through attheworld aspecialHe looked viewed life differently to mostpeople. with “Nerd GradeIII”.’ who wore overalls proudly emblazoned popular andhighlyvaluedvolunteer … digits), himasa whichdescribes ‘very posted alovely to tribute 011y(speltwith museum. The museum’s website has May 2018 Shaw,Written by Martin Glasgow, and agranddaughter. by hissecondwife,survived sons, two the onesallotted to me. choose your well parents, with Ididvery that you don’t to have theopportunity and agentleman,itismatter offact with fondness. Hewasbothagentleman piecewillremember himread thisshort atAldenhamwhomaycontemporaries today. Ihopethatany ofhis provide aneducationfor theyouth of manner inwhichithasdeveloped to to have beenattheschool, andthe upto hisdeath;hewasbothproudright andtheOA Aldenham School Society peacefully inhissleep. pleasure. Hediedin Wymondham, allied interests from whichhetook much andotherof Recorded Societies Music played asignificant role inthe Federation Aldenham Oliver withthecomputer from He willbesorely missed. Oliver always trod hisown path,and His first wife pre-deceased him,heis firstwifeHis pre-deceased He retained agreat interest In Clive Harlow (P1969-73)

and

OA REVIEW | OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES

Dale Winton Dale Winton (K&SHE1968-71) was born in London on 22nd May 1955; his father, Gary, was a furniture maker, and his mother, Shirley – known as Sheree Winton – was a film and television actress, best known for The Dentist In The Chair, Rhubarb, and her appearances alongside comedians Frankie Howerd and Spike Milligan.

n his early life, Winton attended a radio station broadcasting to factories pitted against each other in general Orley Farm Prep School, and then across Britain. Afterwards, he went on to knowledge questions to win a potential Iwent to Aldenham. His parents join Radio Trent in Nottingham in 1977, prize of £100,000. divorced when he was still young, and as well as working for Radio Danube in Winton’s other television credits his father died when he was 13. Winton Yugoslavia, and Chiltern Radio in Luton. include The Other Half, which aired from mentioned his time at Aldenham in his In 1986, Winton first appeared on our 1997-2002; the first series of BBC’s Hole in autobiography, My Story, and gave special screens on Pet Watch, which aired on a the Wall; and Come Fly With Me, alongside mention to his French teacher Cyril Tyson Sunday evening, and was co-hosted by good friends and Matt (CR1952-87). Bruce Fogle, and on Lifestyle Channel, ITV Lucas. Winton also has a credit in Danny Winton’s mother remarried whilst Dale and Channel 4. Boyle’s 1996 film Trainspotting, in which was still at School, but had a breakdown 1993 saw the launch of the UK version he played an irritating gameshow host. shortly after he left. He spoke out about of Supermarket Sweep, perhaps Winton’s Dale Winton’s most recent show – Sheree’s struggle with depression, which most famous television show. Based on Dale Winton’s Florida Fly Drive – aired in resulted in her suicide when Winton was the American format, originally aired in February 2018, with three more episodes 21. Winton himself went on to struggle the 1960s, the show saw contestants following in the summer of 2018. Winton with depression throughout his life, and running around a studio supermarket, died on 18th April, before the rest of the spoke openly about this on the chat answering riddles and questions about series had been broadcast. His death is show Loose Women in 2016. products, and piling items into their thought to have been natural causes. After leaving Aldenham in 1971 – trolleys in order to win a cash price of When news of Dale Winton’s death determined to start a career in show £2,000. It ran for seven years, until 2001, broke, celebrities flocked to social business – Dale held several short-term and was briefly relaunched in 2007. media in tribute to him, including Ben jobs, including selling apartments Shortly after the first run of Supermarket Fogle, son of Bruce Fogle, comedian overseas, whilst working in London as a Sweep, Winton became the host of The Jack Whitehall, and Nell McAndrew, DJ. In 1974, he was given his own radio National Lottery: In It To Win It, which who featured alongside Winton in the show on the United Biscuits Network, ran until 2016, and saw contestants BBC 3 mockumentary Dale’s Wedding. Peter Croft

central to his life. Her near-blindness was liability. He then spent his time smoking no barrier to both of them pursuing high- and drinking at home with his asthmatic flying careers and enjoying travel and wife and children. Towards the end of his home life together. However, a glittering life, as the effects of tobacco and alcohol

start in life isn’t enough, and his honest began to show, he cut down on both, and TributesObituaries approach to admitting and overcoming but too late to save his relationships with mistakes gradually gave way to the latent his children, his now-dead wife, their arrogance that bedeviled his character. health, or his own. When Jenny retired to care for their He leaves behind sad thoughts of what Peter Croft (K1962-66) achieved children the pressures of supporting might have been. A good life doesn’t scholarships at Aldenham and then Christ three dependents, and of not fulfilling come only from early brilliance, but from Church, Oxford. Despite this glittering childhood dreams of greater success, good luck, hard work and attention even start in life, he still had low points in his contributed to a descent into alcoholism to small things. A good relationship career, but his ability and youthful that defined the rest of his life. Despite similarly comes not just from mutual love willingness to learn led him eventually his continued money-making at his job, and brilliance. Peter never knew this, but to settle in a good job in private equity. his erratic behaviour and neglect of rules his life can still be a lesson for others. A shy and often antisocial man, his wife, and requirements, such as paperwork Jenny, whom he met at Oxford, was and internal meetings, made him a Written by Quentin Croft.

55 Obituaries and Tributes O he oncetold us, undertheM25! buried Clubwhichisnow, Hockey the Hawkes as forfor andcontinuedto play hockey Kings Cambridge. andhockey Heplayed cricket theharbour.emplacement overlooking inabattery stationed inHongKong asa2ndLieutenant. Hewas serving Written by David’s sister, JuliaMurray. devotion to hisfamilyandfriends. robust senseofhumourandsteadfast ever poorer healththoughretaining a coast for thelastfifteen years, battling illness.serious Helived onthesouth before returning to a Englandafter spent mostofhiscareer inBelgium David Patrick Alister Smith(P1960-65) Alister Smith David Patrick David Garnar Reading (P1945-50) In 1951 he went to Kings College, 1951hewent to Kings In Royal Artillery inanti-aircraft, Royal Artillery withthe did hisnationalservice n leaving Aldenhamourfather OA REVIEW B Michael Ost memories asachildandyoungmemories man; would reminisce abouthissporting Lords Test eachyear Match where he death in2017. untilhiscontinued to onhisfarm work herd ofAyrshirestrong dairy cows. He Hailsham, where hebuiltupaseventy movedthey to Broomwood Farm, near andin1963 did notputhimofffarming removed.and hadto have akidney This in farm Wadhurst where hecontracted TB our mother, Beryl. They boughttheirfirst vocation, farming, whichhemet during onhistrue before the City embarking cost of£50 perperson. miles, over ofseven weeks aperiod ata ‘Theodora’, covering adistanceof5,500 Istanbul inausedbread vancalled to onatrip and three embarked friends in1954,heOn finishingat Cambridge for was many years. 2013, Michael In Tigers football, where hewassecretary and, cluband mostofall, thecricket life,community thechurch, pubs, quizzes threw himselfintowhere Mike Drayton,and hisfamilymoved to Market London. were at The HallSchool, Hampstead, Charlotte, andhisfinal ten years teaching daughters,They hadtwo and Lucy hiswifemet andmarried Anne, in1977. were atPerrott where inSomerset, he Hill happiest teaching years coach.His cricket and hewasalsoadedicated football and Classics were hismainlove andsubjects, teacher training college. Latinand Aldenham School, before goingonto attended Holme Leigh, LeighThorn and Ost.HeJohn Ost(M1922-28)andRosa We spentmany happy days atthe On hisreturn, hespentsometimein Shortly after hisretirement, after Michael Shortly (M1951-55) wastheeldestsonof November Ost 1937,Michael inDerbyshire onthe13thorn

| OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES 56 granddaughter. Written by Faye Standen-Clowes, David’s son, Nigel. and waspredeceased by hisother grandchildren, sixgreat grandchildren nine sons RichardandMartin, by hisdaughter Judith, He issurvived his finalwishandpassed away athome. illness, hewasgranted2012. After ashort our motherathomeuntilherdeathin bought aticket! upatthegate andjusthe turned London Olympicsof1948to which atthe andweightlifting the hockey Football Clubat The Valley andwatching Surrey at Athletic andCharlton The Oval Miller,Keith supporting playing cricket, watching Bradmanandhisreal Don hero, Written by Anne Ost. Ost. Written by Anne and willbegreatly missed. lives ofsomany, inmany different ways, hastouched the of theirGrandpa.Mike oftheirmemories spoke andSeth, Harvey 17th November, grandsons, andhistwo ontheMichael’s services memorial brother, Patrick, at ledthetributes following godson, afall. His Tony, andhis 2017inhospital on 24thOctober sadly thisnever happened, andhedied but birthday; hisactual justafter party to forward an80thbirthday and looking onbravely,carried remaining athome, Ost Pavilion. Club, whichwasrenamed theMichael Presidenta life-long ofthe Tigers Football football,community andwaslater made Palace for to hisoutstandingcontribution honoured by theFA atBuckingham He wasaloving husband, for caring When diagnosed withcancer, Michael

OA REVIEW | OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES

Christopher John Kershaw

him from taking up his place at Marketing – which kept them busy Cambridge that term. Young men of Kit’s and happily at Morley Hall for the generation were destined to do National next 21 years. Service, and universities would not keep In the autumn of 1996, after many places open, so he ended up doing his happy times and three weddings, Leila engineering diploma at Enfield Technical and Kit sold Morley Hall and decided to College. set about selling the company. Leila In 1957, Kit was called up and joined wanted to retire to the west country, and REME, and after initial training was sent in July 1997 they moved to Lawell House out to Hong Kong to keep the peace in in Chudleigh, Devon, where they found a the northern territories. His mother big project needing a lot of work, which became desperately ill in the summer kept Kit happily occupied for the next ten of 1958, and he was flown home as an years. That house sold extremely well and emergency in January 1959 when she the couple then moved to Teignmouth in died. His beloved father had died in the the autumn 2007. They also had a little autumn of 1954 when Kit was in hospital house as an alternative project in after his accident. northern Tuscany, and spent many Christopher John (Kit) Kershaw (SH1948- After National Service, and now an happy times there, with Kit harnessing 53) was born on the 20th October 1934, orphan. Kit teamed up with an old friend water from a spring, laying floors, fitting the second child and only son of John in a similar position and they shared his a kitchen and, of course, a stove, and Brian Kershaw and Constance Nora (neé mother’s house together, until it was sold putting in his third swimming pool Spratt), commonly known as Toby, the when they moved into a nice flat in Mill (including those at Morley Hall name under which she wrote a children’s Hill Broadway. He was now working for and Lawell). newspaper. Metal Box, and he and Tom, a very keen Soon after Leila and Kit moved to As a five year old, Kit spent a year at Thespian, decided to attend an audition Buddleford, Kit’s dementia began to North London Collegiate School, where for an upcoming amateur production. become apparent and his decline started his sister Jennifer was a pupil, but it was The play was Spring 1600 by Emlyn seriously in 2013. The biggest blow to his suggested to his parents that he would Williams, and starred a girl called Leila life was being refused a driving license. be better off at an all boys school when O’Donohoe. Kit and Leila married in His determination to go off on his own – he unwisely climbed the large cedar tree August 1961. he loved walking – and frequently getting and a drainpipe and terrified the As Leila was a Catholic, Kit decided to lost, made his family realise that he would Headmistress! He then spent his convert to Catholicism, having never be safer in a good care home. Fortunately formative years at Belmont School in Mill been confirmed in the Anglican Church. his spell in the army qualified him for a Hill, and was evacuated during the war to However, he always retained an affection British Legion home, of which there are St Bees in Cumberland, where the boys for Anglicanism and particularly for the only six in the country, and the nearest were allowed to roam free and swim in a services he had taken part in at School. one to us was nearly 50 miles away, near freezing cold lake, well away from the Leila and Kit had five children, all Minehead. He moved into Dunkirk bombs dropping on war-torn London. daughters; sadly the much wanted son Memorial House in January 2017 and it In the autumn of 1948, Kit was remained elusive! Kit got involved in was and is far better than anything else accepted by Aldenham School and spent selling big machinery for the production we could have found. Of course, five very happy years there, ending up as of plastics and travelled widely in this deprivation of liberty was the worst

Head of House. He enjoyed Eton Fives, country and on the continent as part of problem for a man who did everything and TributesObituaries squash, and was a good goalie for the his job. Kit and Leila had been living in alone and could turn his hand to hockey team. He also got involved in , near Ware, since 1963 and in anything. However, he settled in well, and school plays, often playing female parts 1975 moved to a very large house, was always the first to join in any – possibly something to do with his good Morley Hall, which had enormous entertainment. After a serious looks! He was always more interested in heating problems and lots of fallen elm deterioration in his health in April 2018, science and maths than English and trees. Fortunately in November 1975, Leila moved Kit to a good care home languages (his spelling was appalling) Leila discovered a friend who had a wood nearby, but, no longer able to move or and he got a maths scholarship and a stove, and they ordered three for function on his own, it was obvious that place at St Catharine’s, Cambridge, to Christmas. This purchase led to their he had lost the will to live. He died study mechanical engineering. being asked if they would like to sell the peacefully, after a short bout of bronchial Unfortunately, a serious motorbike stoves from our house. In no time, they pneumonia on 25th May 2018. accident in the autumn of 1954 put him were selling more than we could handle, in hospital for several weeks, preventing and started their own company – Morley Written by Leila Kershaw.

57 Obituaries and Tributes with: keen to make thebestof thingsand to make with: keen and absolutely doted onthem. She hadalways wanted grandchildren, grandchildren followed: Elsa,AlexandJosh. were in1953and1959,three born children,Anthea. Hertwo SusiandDave, staff!recruiting kitchen breakfast, dueto frequent difficulties in 60boiledeggsforhad to make theboys’ toReady helpinany way, Antheaoften appointed Housemaster ofBeevor’s. enjoy Florence, Venice, andCapri. Rome inItaly,honeymoon travelling by trainto summer holidays, had their they ‘proper’ parrot inthehouse! Then, intheschool’s reminisced apet aboutbecauseshekept withaladyAntheaoften Road, Radlett, went straightinto Aldenhamschoollife. andthenAnthea started, term the spring fit inacoupleofdays’ before honeymoon Holy Trinity, Brompton. They managedto were 1951they at married on 6thJanuary ledto engagement,andromance quickly holidays. theAldenhamSchool during brother-in-law, Hugh,wasvisitingthem in who waskilled World War II;andher husband wasHugh’s brother, Tristram, children, down atSandbanks. Betty’s first andhiswife withtheirfiveReading Betty that summerhelpingtheBishopof old school, Benenden,shewasspending 21st birthday. Through from acontact her began insummer1950,justbefore her involvement withAldenhamSchool of Paull’s Housefrom 1976to 1981. school asaMaster’s wife, andalsoasMatron wife, sheremained involved withthe Following hertimeasaHousemaster’s teach mathsatAldenhamuntil1972. 1951 to 1956,andwhocontinuedto Anthea Kirkwood through withAldenham School. herconnections muchvaluedshemadeover thefriends talkedabouthowShe often shevery theyears been inpoorhealthfor sometime. Butshewas determined to remain positive until theend. We diedon20thJuly2017.Anthea are that was Anthea 87 andhad sadto Kirkwood report A Anthea wasalways goodfunto be Family to were andfriends important Hughwas the1951autumnterm, In Mornington At lodgedin first,they Anthea andHughfell inlove. Their 1929,Anthea’s on21stOctober Born Housemaster ofBeevor’s from (CR1946-72) , Kirkwood to Hugh nthea wasmarried OA REVIEW when her first raspberries would be when herfirstraspberries ready. needed to water herrunnerbeans, and flowering, whethershe might start outfor whenherIrisUnguicularis looking became more interested ingardening: and helpedto getherthrough. Shealso grandchildren were adelightfuldistraction towas determined stay positive: her Anne for for herwork Save The Children. medalby Princessawarded along-service cardand Christmas sales. Antheawas for thecharity, withstallsatlocalfetes, branch raisedmany thousandsofpounds Treasurer. theyears, Over theRadlett Save The Children, assisted by Hughas branchof theRadlett helpedstart friends with Aldenham. community, whilestillmaintainingties involved ofthelocal withotheraspects for 60years. Here, Antheabecamemore thatwasto beAnthea’sin Radlett home family moved from Beevor’s to thehouse Anthea’s the illnessand miscarriage, chairs orsofasfor andfamily. friends to wedding dresses orupholstering curtains tooften befound anything sewing from for herchildren andgrandchildren, andwas cakes people. Sheloved birthday to bake was helpingothersandbeingwithother in herspare time, whatshereally enjoyed Although shecontinuedto play thepiano good stead for herrole withinBeevor’s. a prep schoolwhenshe19,stood herin followed by atimeasAssistant Matron at at Harcombe College, nearLyme Regis, during the during War asateenager. Cornwall, whenshewasevacuated there swimming intheseaallyear round in may have remindedactivity herof unheated swimmingpools. This latter Masters’ children to swiminAldenham’s pitch inthecold,hockey orteaching standing onthesideofanAldenham attitude wasinfectious, whetheritwas help othersdothesame. Herpositive When her husband died in 1994, Anthea When herhusbanddiedin1994,Anthea 1971,Antheaandafew closeIn 1957,prompted,In by we suspect, Her early HomeEconomics trainingHer early

| OBITUARIES AND TRIBUTES 58

a littleice-cream. with raspberries her own home-grown the endshewasableto enjoy afew of always ready to helpothers. until Right not leaving anyone onadown note, and side, onthebright looking role-model: somany ways,In Anthea wasagreat and Josh. August2017 and Josh. andClaire,Dave SusiandRob, Alex,Elsa herinany way.supported Anthea,andwhohelped who knew Children and Watford Peace Hospice. donations are welcomed for Save The ofAnthea, memory 10th August 2017. In on Church, was heldatChrist Radlett, to celebrate Anthea’sto it.Aservice life would ratherpeoplewore colours bright ratherthanasombre funeral, and service future. Shesaidshewanted acelebration life, to focus andwanted everyone onthe to besad. Shesaidthatshehadalovely there. after to belooked Watford Peace Hospice. Shewassoglad cared team for at by thewonderful weeks ofbeinglovingly andprofessionally threebed, andafter inalotofdiscomfort, confined to six monthsofbeingvirtually Written by Mattinson Jennifer and many were stories told! sohighlyoftheSchool always spoke brother enjoyed histimeatAldenhamwith Hehad attack. and diedofaheart COPD andbreathing problems for awhile age of75.Hehadbeensuffering with 60) diedon4thMarch thisyear atthe husbandPeterMy (M1956- Mattinson Mattinson Peter Anthea diedon20thJuly2017,after Many thanksto allofyou reading this Anthea saidthatshedidn’t wantanyone Christopher (M1953-57)and

Editor Lydia Chapman Designer Hugh Schermuly, Schermuly Design Co. Ltd www.schermulydesign.co.uk Photography Ann Saffery, Heather Sherman, Jackie Wilkie Printed in the UK by Park Communications Ltd. OA ANNUAL DINNER 2018 Saturday 10th November at Aldenham School 6:15pm Drinks Reception in The Apthorp Room of The Wells Centre with entertainment 7:30-11:00pm Dinner in the Dining Hall Principle Guest Speaker: James Fowler (Headmaster) Tickets: £50 PER PERSON (OA Society and guest) £40 per person for those 25 or under on the day of the Dinner £55 per person for Non-members of the OA Society The OA Society will subsidise members and their partner Price will include pre-dinner drinks, wine with dinner and coffee with mints There will be a cash bar for additional wine and soft drinks as required. Wine £10 per bottle. To reserve your individual seat or a full table, please contact [email protected], or call 01923 851614. Please also make us aware of any dietary requirements prior to the evening.