1 TITLE HERE TITLE Issue No. 159 - Winter 2016 Winter 159 - Issue No. THE SALOPIAN THE

THE SALOPIAN Issue No. 159 - Winter 2016 Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace SW1A 1AA Bowring Room, Shrewsbury School Boathouse Shrewsbury School Venue Henley Cricket Club, Henley St Mary-le-Bow, London WC2V 6AU Shrewsbury School Barber Institute of Fine Arts Birmingham B15 2TS Contact: [email protected] London Westminster Abbey London SW1P 3PA Westminster Lichfield Cathedral Contact: [email protected] Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 9DQ Sloane Terrace, Contact: [email protected] St Paul’s Club, St Paul’s Square Birmingham B3 1QZ

exhibition with talk by OS Desmond Surveyor of the Shawe-Taylor, Queen’s Pictures, drinks. and OS Masonic Lodge Meeting Speech Day Event Henley Royal Regatta gathering A Celebration of Epiphany Service (formerled by Revd Gavin Williams Shrewsbury School Chaplain) with a choir conducted by OS Patrick Craig and Richard Eteson Old Salopian Day a pre-concert drinks reception in the Gallery at the Barber Institute from 6-7pm OS Sports Committee Meeting conducted by Revd Gavin Williams, conducted by Revd Gavin Williams, followed by a tour and then drinks Shrewsbury School Chapel Choir sings Evensong, followed by a reception in Lichfield Cathedral Joint OS/School Concert at Cadogan Hall; high tea to be served in the foyer before 4.30-5.30pm the concert OS Birmingham Dinner Tickets will be available via the website Schools’ Head of the River gathering 9DJ Hammersmith W6 Blue Anchor, Private viewing of the Canaletto

Except where stated email: [email protected] Sporting fixtures at: www.shrewsbury.org.uk/page/os-sport (Click on individual sport) Sporting fixtures at: www.shrewsbury.org.uk/page/os-sport More www.shrewsbury.org.uk/page/os-events Salopian Club website: can be found on the details

Saturday 3 June Saturday 1 July Date Saturday 1 July Wednesday 11 January, 7pm Wednesday Saturday 30 September Wednesday 18 January, 5.30pm Wednesday Thursday 2 February, 7.30pm Meeting Salopian Club Committee London Shrewsbury School in Concert with Wednesday 22 February, 6.00pm Wednesday Thursday 23 February, 5.00pm Abbey Evensong at Westminster Monday 6 March, 5.30pm Monday 6 March, Sunday 12 March, 6.00pm Sunday 12 March, *Thursday 16 March *Thursday 16 March Thursday 23 March Thursday 23 March 24 May, 6.30pm Wednesday All Shrewsbury School parents (including former parents) are and guests of members at the majority of our most welcome to include in all invitations all formerevents. It is our policy parents have contact details. The exception for whom we ‘Old Salopian’ which, for reasonsis any event marked of space, is restricted to Club members only (e.g. Birmingham Dinner). areSupporters or guests at Salopian Club sporting or arts events. always very welcome details areEmails containing further prior to all events, so please make sure sent out up to that we have your date contact details. n SALOPIAN CLUB FORTHCOMING EVENTS FORTHCOMING CLUB SALOPIAN n n OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 95 arrangements could be made. He took over the dreaded After leaving Oldham’s in 1972, Jane and Michael remained on accounts, but finding himself struggling to find enough time the School Site for some years, living in Gorswen. On Michael’s to do them properly and on learning that Jane had become final retirement from teaching, they made their home in proficient, he rather tentatively asked her for help. After a Bayston Hill. Here Jane created a very productive garden: the couple of sessions, he even more tentatively asked her if vegetables, the apples, pears and strawberries were generously she would join him for a cup of tea. It wasn’t long before distributed far and wide. When Michael became increasingly they were engaged. This was the beginning of their lifelong immobile in his later years she would often be found on her partnership of nearly 62 years. kneeler in the vegetable garden, weeding, sowing, planting, They married on 15th April 1953 and their first home was harvesting; happily engrossed, the sitting room doors wide Tregwynt in Port Hill Gardens. In 1959 Michael took Jane, open so that she could hear him if he called or rang the bell. Ruth and Anne - David was not yet born - to Kisumu in In their retirement she also used the old skills from her social Kenya on the edge of Lake Victoria where he been offered a work days to train, and then to work for the church, as a year’s sabbatical as vicar. Jane often talked with pleasure of most effective counsellor. During this time they went regularly their time there. to Jerusalem where Michael took his turn as Chaplain at the Garden Tomb, ministering to the many pilgrims and tourists On returning to Shrewsbury they moved briefly into The who visit. Poplars before starting ten years in charge of Oldham’s Hall in 1962. Running a boys’ boarding house in the 1960s was Jane cared for Michael devotedly during his illness for four extremely hard work for the wives in particular. Jane now long years, determined to keep him at home. After he died, it had three small children to look after and the responsibility was quite remarkable the way Jane began to re-build her life. of a large domestic staff and the feeding of around 60 hungry She re-kindled old village and church friendships; she loved teenage boys during term time. Oldham’s had been designed going with Adrian Struvé to the pensioners’ lunch at Dobbies; by a bachelor and no one could possibly argue with the fact she began to re-plan her garden and think about installing a that whilst it was a handsome and spacious building, it was new kitchen; she had several short trips away. On Christmas an extremely inconvenient family home. However, using her Day she was at Holy Trinity Church, helping with the annual excellent organisational skills and her very good brain, Jane lunch for over a hundred people. made light of this and other inconveniences and supported She was a wise friend and counsellor to a great many Michael tirelessly; the boys were well fed and the children people. In the words of her daughter, Ruth: “Mum never put loved having the school grounds to play in, the swimming a foot wrong: she was an amazing wife, mother, daughter, pool and tennis court on the doorstep and a pony not far grandmother and great-grandmother. She understood and away. Jane and Michael made many good friends during this fulfilled all the roles really well. She knew when to be in the time, both boys and their parents, who stayed in touch for long front leading, when to be beside or behind, supporting.” years afterwards. Catherine Trimby

Peter Williams (SH 1955-59) (having never adapted to computerisation, he purchased a Peter Robert Sinclair Williams was born in 1942 and 16-column analysis cash book which lasted a few months attended Mostyn House School, Parkgate on the Wirral before he employed an assistant with a computer!) to before coming to Shrewsbury in 1955. He shared a happy attending to snagging and complaints. In connection with childhood with his brother Nicko (SH 1954-58). the latter, he once told a customer who complained that they had left a small step between house and conservatory After Shrewsbury, he served articles under Cecil Taylor at over which her husband was prone to trip “you should put Wilson de Zouche and Mackenzie (WZM) in Liverpool, more tonic with his gin”. where he qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1965. There followed a brief spell at Peat Marwick & Mitchell Life at Interglaze removed PRS from the Artists Club, with where he began to develop his own individual style. Years which by that stage he was also somewhat disillusioned, after he left stories abounded, including that of his briefcase saying at one time, “The problem is that there are people which contained little more than the Daily Telegraph and coming in here today who don’t know the difference his lunch which comprised sandwiches and several bottles between a pub and a club”. However he soon found a of beer! new retreat, the Fox & Hounds in Barnston which he then referred to as his ‘Barnston Club’. From Peats he moved at the invitation of his cousin Mike Moon to become a Partner in Blease Lloyd, from whence Whilst PRS was above all a family man, he was also a highly both moved to WZM in 1972. Here practice life suited proficient and able accountant who was doggedly loyal to PRS, who demonstrated great flair in dealing with his his friends. ‘broad church’ of clients and balancing his work with the His family life centred round his home at Northfield, where attractions of the Liverpool Artists Club, Ma Boyles and he was a keen gardener who was proud of the supply several other haunts. He was popular, entertaining, irascible of home-grown vegetables. He was also a practical man and usually fair. and enjoyed making improvements to the property. His By 1992 he had become disillusioned with the direction that favourite intellectual pursuit was the reading of history, his business life was taking. As he said to an old friend and which influenced his thinking on the modern world. His fellow Partner, “when some years ago I became a Chartered views were generally conservative and he greatly enjoyed Accountant, I joined a profession; recently it has come to indulging in debate, conversation being for him something my attention that it has become a trade”. Well, if you can’t of a sporting encounter. It was particularly hard, therefore beat them join them! PRS duly retired from the Partnership than he suffered the loss of his voice, a burden which he and went into secondary glazing. He undertook a number bore stoically, as he did his last illness, in which he was of roles with Interglaze, from being the accountant closely supported by his wife. here is much discussion in the media, following events both at home and abroad, of us having moved into a ‘post-truth’ society, CONTENTS T Academic News 4 even, it has been suggested by one commentator, a ‘post-thought’ Blind Winter 7 society. The argument is that truth, at any rate in matters of politics, El Retiro 7 no longer has much value, nor indeed does rational debate nor, dare Avete 8 I say it, expertise. We have, so the argument goes, moved into a neo- Valete 10 Shrewsbury School and the Machiavellian age where ends justify means, the age of the ‘deal’. Shewsy join forces in Malawi 16 If a Shrewsbury School education is to mean anything, and is to Sponsored Walk for the Shewsy 18 justify its place in a world where privilege, power and money are The Chatri Design Centre 20 The Junior School Play 2016 21 increasingly abused and regarded as passports to a world above the Expectations met in Edinburgh 22 rule of law and common morality, it must be about honesty, common Drama Showcase 23 decency, the search for truth and the value of truth. Fortunately this Cabaret 24 issue of The Salopian contains plenty to convince the reader that these Music News 25 St Cecilia Concerts 27 values continue to lie at the core of a Salopian education. House Singing Competition 2016 28 The front cover image, of the renascent Rovers mountain-biking in Wilfred Owen Memorial Event 29 Skye, provides a suitable image of continuity and permanence to Old Salopians in WWI 30 CCF 32 stand as a metaphor for the Salopian ethos. The inside front cover Rover Expedition: Land, Sea & Skye 38 likewise. But it is in the two essays by Fifth Formers (Year 11), neither Ingram’s Hall Fundraise for Plan UK 41 of them in top sets, part of their IGCSE coursework portfolios, that the Cricket 44 RSSBC 45 clearest sense of enduring values can be seen. And it is all the more Bumps 2016 49 encouraging that they can be seen in the words and thoughts of the Hockey 50 rising generation. Those of us at the other end of life’s see-saw are of RSSH 52 course prone to look for and find evidence of declining, not merely Sports Day 54 Equestrian 55 changing, values. Shooting 55 Jasper Mitchell plainly revels in the words and images he conjures From the Director 56 up to describe his freezing walk to lessons, and then back may have Moser’s Hall Reunion 56 Battlefield Tour to Normandy 57 changed, but the walk and the feelings it engenders have been felt Old Salopian Day 58 by countless generations of Salopians before him and, it is to be News of Old Salopians 59 hoped, an equal number yet to cross the School Site in generations Old Salopian Arts 68 still to come. Old Salopian Arts Events 69 Old Salopians in the Arts News 69 In the second piece, we are transported from frozen Welsh Sabrina 71 borderlands to a sun-filled park in Madrid, the writer’s home city, A Nautical Adventure Remembered 73 about which he writes engagingly in his second language, with images Old Salopian Yacht Club 74 Football 75 just as sharp, perhaps none more so than the charming vignette of the Saracens 76 proposing lover described in the penultimate stanza. Old Salopian Hunt 78 Delight in the moment, the magic of the mundane and the everyday, Old Salopian Golfing Society 80 Old Salopian Women’s Sport 82 these too are enduring values, and the tools to describe and Common Room Appreciations 83 articulate them are as much the proper purpose of education as is Publications 85 the grander business of passing exams and preparing oneself for the Super Cycling Man 86 world of work. Obituaries 88 To end on a less sententious note, nowhere is the juxtaposition of the Editor Richard Hudson new and the enduring more graphically illustrated than in the aerial Churchill’s Hall, Shrewsbury School, Shrewsbury SY3 7AT view of the splendid new astro facility against the backdrop of the 01743 280630 [email protected] South Shropshire Hills on page 51. Assistant Editor Annabel Warburg Obituaries Editor Martin Knox Salopian Club Nick Jenkins (Director) Salopian Club, The Schools, Shrewsbury SY3 7BA 01743 280891 (Director) 01743 280892 (Administrator) mail to: [email protected] Front Cover: So we’ll go some more a-roving. Skye 2016. Photo by Paul Kaye. Design: www.grand-design.eu Inside Front cover: School Chapel. Photo by Kate Bronner. Print: www.lavenhampress.com 4 SCHOOL NEWS

Academic News An Independent Education

wonderfully unique – celebrating the creative arts and to understand the unusual and pioneering endeavour importance of thinking creatively in and encouraging pupils to be cultured, every context. critical leaders in an increasingly Our academic provision is not perfect complicated world. in any sense – no school could make The breadth of our Third Form that boast; and we will continue, as the Curriculum, the range of options year progresses, to refine and reform available at GCSE and A Level and the and to discuss and debate. In the age opportunity to expand horizons beyond of technology and in which constant a narrow examination focus really do connectivity is an essential requirement, help us to encourage pupils to engage we have many questions to ask about in learning for its own sake. Few other the nature of the pupils joining our schools could boast our uptake for the school and the nature of the life upon Extended Project Qualification – or which they will embark when they a variety of proposed projects that leave. But it is this process of discussion, includes a study of the cultural effects this opportunity to engage with these I have always felt it to be one of the of the Ebola virus and a sociological key issues that makes our job such an key perks of the teaching profession study of the lasting impact of the exciting and varied one – and it is our that we experience, during the American Civil Rights movement. We willingness to do it that allows us to course of 12 months, two moments can be equally proud of the uptake of keep a Shrewsbury education proudly for starting afresh: the traditional, our Academic Extension programme – and distinctively independent. resolution-formulating moment on the pupils have filled the Ashton Theatre first of January; and that inspiring and to hear extraordinary lectures themed invigorating moment in September around ‘Persuasion’, covering topics Maurice Walters joined the staff when the School reconstitutes itself such as oratory, economics and as Deputy Head (Academic) in after the long summer break. marketing as well as propaganda in art. September 2016 New Year’s Resolutions tend, in general, At the top end of the School, of course, to be short-lived affairs. Well-intentioned it is also encouraging to see so many but not effectively bolstered by the pupils engaging with that greatest of National Mathematics stamina and will-power needed to see academic challenges: the Oxbridge Success them succeed; but the choices we make application process. But pupils choose professionally in September, of course, to extend their understanding and are far less ephemeral. The approaches broaden their cultural knowledge After a closely fought battle at the we take, the questions we ask and the throughout the School in smaller Regional Final of the Senior Team methods we choose to employ will ways too, by taking part in a range Maths Challenge held at Keele shape not only our experience of the of academic competitions (of which University on 23rd November, year ahead but also the experiences Classical Reading, judged by the much Shrewsbury’s team of David Gao, of nearly eight hundred pupils all at revered John Taylor, was the most Linda Zhao, Angela Liang and Isaac varying, but equally critical phases of recent) or engaging with the weekly Dai finished in joint first place. They their education. micro-magazine SparkPoint. This latter now look forward to competing in Examination results, of course, have publication is designed to offer fast, the National Finals, which will be their role to play. We must engage in bite-sized but stimulating exposure to held at the Royal Horticultural Halls frank and honest scrutiny and ensure a whole host of concepts, ideas and in London on 7th February. that the successes of this year are personalities which fall outside the The four members of the team repeated and amplified – especially bounds of qualification specifications were also among 30 Shrewsbury against a backdrop of national change but which are essential to the broad, School mathematicians from across and uncertainty. Our fantastic GCSE rounded view of the world we aspire all year groups who were awarded grades and strong showing at A Level to inculcate in every Salopian. Gold Certificates in the Senior will not be a prelude to complacency Independence also relates, of course, Maths Challenge paper. A total of and, as they seek to implement new to confidence and creativity and since 145 pupils sat the paper on 8th and challenging curricula, departments joining the School in September, I November, together with thousands will continue to refine approaches and have been astonished by the powerful of others nationwide. In addition processes to ensure that every pupil combination of these two academic to the 30 pupils awarded Gold performs to their potential. virtues in so many pupils in all year Certificates, a further 51 won Silver But we are an Independent School groups. The establishment of a pupil- Certificates and 37 won Bronze. and that word ‘Independent’ has new led Law Society, the fiery and eloquent Isaac Dai scored an outstanding full and important meaning as we struggle speeches offered in the House Debating marks and Angela Liang scored a to digest the regulations, systems and competition, the passion and verve of very impressive 120/125. Both have bureaucracy levelled at us by the the performers in the St Cecilia Concerts now been invited to take part in the governmental machine. Despite these are all evidence of a school culture that British Mathematical Olympiad. constraints we remain, as a school, is keen to embrace, celebrate and value SCHOOL NEWS 5

Exam results We celebrated another excellent set of A Level results this year from our largest ever Upper Sixth group. 80% of the exams were awarded the top A*, A or B grades. As ever, there were many individual success stories, in particular for the 53 pupils who gained at least 3 A grades, 12 of whom gained 3 A* grades or more.

Our Fifth Form pupils achieved one of our GCSE Prizewinners best ever set of GCSE results this year, with a near record 70.8% of the exams awarded an A* or A grade and a record-breaking 43.8% of results achieving the top A* grade. Nine pupils gained 10 straight A*, and 31 pupils gained either A* or A grades in all their subjects. At the beginning of the new academic year, 40 pupils were awarded Honorary Scholarships, Exhibitions and Examination Prizes for achieving outstanding scores. GCSE Honorary Scholars & Exhibitioners

Cambridge Chemistry Challenge 2016 After a busy AS exam schedule, a group of Lower Sixth students entered the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge. They performed extremely well, amassing a total of six gold, eight silver and 14 copper medals. This competition aims to stretch and challenge students interested in chemistry and provides valuable experience for anyone Head of Chemistry Mr Corbett with gold medal winners Guy Morris, Ed Chapman, Lucy Price, considering taking their studies further. Samuel Russell and Andrew Kim

Field Studies Sixth Form Biologists follow the Cambridge Pre-U Biology syllabus, which places great emphasis on the planning and analysis of properly controlled scientific investigations. There can be no more engaging way of developing these skills than collecting one’s own data and working it up under expert guidance. So at the end of September, the Upper Sixth Pre-U biologists travelled to the Field Studies Council’s famous station at Dale Fort in Pembrokeshire to enjoy three days of ‘full immersion’ in coastal marine ecology. Dale Fort is a destination for schools and universities from around the world because it harbours an unusually diverse marine community both at the southern extreme of more polar species and the northerly extreme of more tropical species. Biology field studies Dr Torin Morgan, Head of Biology: “After a series of classroom lessons on sampling methods and on the use of analytical statistics, each new concept supported by a dedicated piece of fieldwork, the pupils chose individual project titles and were let loose on the rocky shore to plan, carry out and analyse their own investigations. This resulted in some truly excellent poster displays and a quick-fire series of spoken presentations by the pupils in front of their peers on the Sunday evening. It was some of the best biology they had ever done and close in feel to university-level science.” The Lower Sixth geographers also visited Wales in September and spent a day studying glaciation in some of the best glacial scenery this side of the Alps. They explored not only the U-shaped Valley Nant Ffrancon but a Ribbon Lake (Llyn Ogwen), a Corrie (Llyn Idwal) and a Roche Moutonnée. Geography field trip 6 SCHOOL NEWS

Classical Speaking let alone agreed upon; under this Competition intriguing cloud of doubt and debate, For hordes of Shrewsbury Classicists, pupils recited works from no fewer the name John Taylor is synonymous than 11 ancient writers, including with the author of a number of Classical Homer, Mimnermus, Aesop, Propertius textbooks, many of whose titles include and Ovid. ‘...... to GCSE’. Over the last decade In his summing up, Dr Taylor and more, scores of Salopians have congratulated the competitors on their learned Ancient Greek and Latin with pace, projection and the sheer variety the help of Dr John Taylor, in paper of the pieces chosen; it made, he form, holding their hand and guiding said, his job easier. He stressed that the way. he was not ‘a purist’, who demanded Intermediate: So it was with great pleasure and not each syllable be stressed precisely, but a little anticipation that 20 pupils from judged performances based on general 1st prize – Frank Mansell (PH); Plato every year group who are currently accuracy and dramatic delivery. Protagoras 321c-322a2 studying Latin or Greek - or both - The laurels were dispersed as follows: 2nd prize – Cosmo Adair (Rt); Horace welcomed Dr Taylor, of Manchester Odes 1.9 vides ut alta University, to adjudicate the fifth annual Senior: Classical Reading Competition, held in Junior: the Haining Family Theatre in Hodgson 1st prize – Krim Sizov (I); Catullus 101 1st prize – Angus Moore (S LVI); Hall on 10th November. ave atque vale Propertius 3.8 1-22 How the ancients actually spoke is a 2nd prize – Bertie Shepherd-Cross (O 2nd prize – David Schofield (O LVI); matter that has never been resolved, III); Archilochos’ elegiacs Ovid Metamorphoses 6.349-381 National Quiz Finalists A committed group of general knowledge enthusiasts meet each week to hone their quizzing skills under the expert tutelage of Dr Oakley, who is famous for having captained Corpus Christi College, Oxford to victory in ‘University Challenge’. Displaying impressive knowledge on subjects ranging from poisons to political leaders and Alaska to aluminium, Caspian Cowan Taylor (Ch UVI), Oliver Bureau (Ch LVI), Alex Sparkes (I IV) and Tom Allen (Ch III) were crowned Schools’ Challenge South Midlands Regional Champions on 16th November. They became the first Shrewsbury team since 2002 to qualify for the National Finals next term.

Bar Mock Trial MUN Shrewsbury has maintained for many years now a reputation as one of the Law Society strongest schools on the Model United There has never been a shortage of Shrewsbury pupils with ambitions to study Nations ‘circuit’, consistently sending law or pursue a career in legal services. But the profession has never before energetic, well-informed and outspoken faced such a period of profound change, the drivers of which are political, delegations to conferences, who work economic and technological. Competition for placements and jobs is increasingly hard to ensure that the countries they fierce. Advice for any young person planning a career in this sector needs, more represent are at the heart of every debate. Shrewsbury’s ‘MUN-ers’ regularly than ever, to be current, realistic and relevant. return from their weekend conferences We are lucky at Shrewsbury School, to have the support and guidance of many with an impressive clutch of individual Old Salopians with distinguished legal careers. In addition to this, we have also and delegation awards. established a partnership with a local law firm who are energetic in their efforts In March 2017, Shrewsbury will host to offer valuable and structured insight event to pupils interested in the law. its own MUN Conference. The event Over the past year, the insights our pupils have benefitted from include: a trip is being organised by Sixth Former to Chester Crown Court to observe the final day of a trial being prosecuted by Ed Plaut and a team of fellow MUN stalwarts, who are looking forward to an Old Salopian barrister Mark Connor (PH 1982-87); a law practice workshop overseeing lively for pupils in the offices of Lanyon Bowdler; work experience placements; and debate on some regular talks and debates. The School’s pupil-led Law Society is captained by of the key global Darcy Smith (MSH UVI). With the support and encouragement of the Careers issues currently Fellow, she worked closely with Holly Edwards, Trainee Solicitor at Lanyon being discussed Bowdler, to organise a Bar Mock Trial competition for the Sixth Form, the final by member states of which took place in the Moser Library on 26th November. of the United Nations. SCHOOL NEWS 7

Blind Winter Shrewsbury School, nine o’clock. The stuffy, damp lamps, slowly being asphyxiated by the wet, repugnant warmth enclosed everyone as I made my way up the settle of broad, pudgy fog that rested on the ground like flight of stairs to the ground floor of the music building. a comatose sloth. The streaks of glossy wood ran along the perimeter of As I stumbled along a familiar, yet a now outlandishly the structure, smooth as the soft, thick music that slid new gravelled road, the agonized mistral howled louder. from the many single block rooms where students were Its numb cry crept into my ears and nose, gripping vibrantly playing their instruments in the sharp, direct me. As I staggered quicker through the growing knoll light that pierced their eyes. of snow, I started to feel short spasms of shiver like a Yet, outside the music building and across the solid, dithered insect wing spread from my head to toe. My brown playing fields, the dew was frozen, the grass stiff fresh breath frozen before I exhaled it into the icy air that as a locked frown. The main building eerily still, its frigid moulded to me like tight clothes. I swayed, damp and windows opaque, the benumbed banister that led the raw in the inclement breeze, its scream like the high- three flights of stairs was untouched at night. Not a single live shift or movement inside its behemothic structure. pitched music I had just been surrounded by. As I broke into a wounded run, my breath felt heavy, an effort to Outside and directly above lingered a mosaic of stars that exhale. From the steep banks I could see the light from littered the sky, now clear as the lights were snuffed. The my house. Its balmy, yellow light shone welcomingly. darkness weaved throughout the stars like sentences, the fiery Almost there, I pulled my rangy coat around me. I dots like grammar. From boarding house to house, the odd scuffled with my gloves. The snow heap had grown in window of light could be seen; one by one they went dark. As they did so, a small, aphotic flake of snow fell on my head as to a crisp sheet that lay everywhere. Perfectly in line and I left the building. It was followed by a steady fall of powder not a single print branded on it. As I spilled over the that stretched the entire campus. It fell like sheet paper, rocking door, I was engulfed by a thermal wave. It ran down the side to side as it descended onto the brown and red autumn icy hairs on my body and loosened my mechanical arms leaves, its weight pressing them causing a mild crackle that and legs. Now inside, the storm settled peacefully and filled the air like applause from a distance. the inconsistent flakes of ice rolled down from the black The path back to my house was ghostly, guided only winter sky. by the languid light that dully poured from the tall steel Jasper Mitchell (S V)

El Retiro In the middle of the city of Madrid, As I eat it, it melts in my mouth, I the violin is soothing, the drum is there is a beautiful park. In this park can taste the sweetness as it fills my aggressive but collectively they make there is a lake, clear like a glass body with joy. I grunt, I sigh, it has an all-embracing aura. The musicians of water. It is outstandingly kept, taken me to a different world and are the people I envy the most, as they symmetrical, prestigious almost, back. It’s simply outstanding. How can have a talent that I would die to have. some might say. As you walk round, something so small, so simple, make This is the reason for which I enjoy the someone so happy? a warm, gentle scent of recently classical melodies of the talented local cooked churros calls your attention. Summer. Best time to go. The beauty orchestras. It is nourishing to the soul. You stop, a ray of the sky’s gentle of going in summer is to experience For me it is almost like a necessity. sunshine hits you, and you take a the magnificent long afternoon deep breath, smile and stroll around walks. So calm. The sunshine is On a sunny spring day, I was walking a bit more. That sound! So peaceful, always happy laying its rays gently through the park and I saw a man so relaxing. People surrounding on your face as you breathe in the proposing to his girlfriend amongst you everywhere, but not like the cool natural air, watching everyone all the blossom trees. Many crowded rest of the city: the gentle talking, with smiles lifting their spirits up. It round as they saw this man go down the laughing, the children running really touches people’s feelings. The on bended knee. We waited as he around, all smiling, the birds chirping calmness can change someone’s mood presented her with a velvet box. She the day away, no negative feelings. like a chameleon changes colour. It looked surprised but slowly a grin My favourite bit about the park? is beautiful – especially the gentle appeared on her face as she said the sunset. The range of striking colours is Churros. As you sit down, you can word we all wanted to hear! “Si!” We priceless. Just breath-taking: red, blue, hear the churros being cooked. So all clapped and cheered as they kissed. perfect! You can smell the sweetness yellow, orange, purple. The colours a mile away covering your mind that bring out the soothing happy The park itself means a whole lot with the thought of it, as if you were vibes. At that point everything and to me and to every other man and in love. You glance to see another everyone has a mellow feeling and woman in Madrid, as we are proud table, to see the delicacy you are you are relaxed. of our city, so precious and so lovely. craving constantly. As they dip it in The charming sound of music plays From the atmosphere, to the delicious the chocolate and it comes out… it is in one part of the park: The big band food, to the generous people, to the a masterpiece! I’m drooling now. As stand. As different orchestras practise spectacular views, Madrid has a lot to the waiter approaches, he places the in there every day, you admire the offer and I am so grateful to be able to indulgence on the table. The scent joyful sounds making you tingle down grow up in such an enchanting place. of the hot chocolate, the churros. your body and ringing in your ear. Amazing. I reach in to take the first Each instrument gives out different bite, Dipped in the chocolate. So soft. moods. The trumpet is happy, Ramzi Masri (SH V) 8 SCHOOL NEWS

AVETE

The Reverend Alex Aldous Maria Laura Fernandez is our joins us as temporary Chaplain Hispanic Fellow for 2016-17 and (for one year), following is from Rosario in Argentina. the retirement of Revd Gary She has been working as a PA Dobbie. He has a Philosophy in Translation for an offshore and Theology degree from software company, as well as Southampton University. Alex other translation positions, and has just left Oakham School has also been teaching English where he was Senior Chaplain. privately. In her spare time, she As well as many years of enjoys hockey and football. experience in school chaplaincy, Alex has been involved with developing Religious Education in his former Diocese and preaching at local churches. Alex enjoys tennis, fives and mountain walking as well as music. His wife, Non, joins him. Emily Higgins joins the Modern Languages Faculty as a teacher Richard Barrett has a MSC of French and Spanish. She has in Theoretical Physics and a just completed her BA Hons in PhD in Electrical Engineering, Modern Languages & Cultures both from the University of (French & Spanish) at the Birmingham, and has recently University of Durham. Emily has completed his PGCE at the employed her language skills University of Cumbria. He was to tutor prep school pupils for previously a Research Fellow Common Entrance and worked and a self-employed private in Paris and Barcelona as part tutor specialising in Maths and of her year abroad. Emily has Physics and he now joins the a love of music and enjoys Physics Faculty. Richard has been accompanying on both guitar and piano. She also has a keen involved in hockey as a National interest in charity work and in personal fitness. league player and coached boys and girls, men and women to a high level for many years.

Oliver Chipperton is our new teacher of History, joining us Katharine Marriott joins us a from St Andrew’s and Rushmoor Graduate Sports Coach (hockey) Schools in Bedford. He has just from the Royal Hospital School, completed his PGCE, having Ipswich. She has a First in Sport gained his MA in Islam and the and Exercise Science from Leeds West (History) from Queen Mary, Beckett University and has been University of London, and before coaching hockey and games in that a BA in History from the various settings. University of Hull. He is a keen swimmer and runner and has coached football at youth level over the years. Oliver was an Officer Cadet at university and enjoys music.

Henry Exham is an Old Salopian (R 1997-02) who joins the Biology Ciaran O’Rooke joins the Faculty from Fettes College English Faculty. He has a BA in Edinburgh, where he was in Modern History and Politics Assistant Head of Biology. He has from Oxford University, as well a BSc in Anatomical Science from as a MA in Conflict, Security Bristol University and has a keen and Development from King’s interest in digital learning, creating College, London. He also has a his own website (mrexham.com) NATO Standardised Language and an iBook on Biology IGCSE. Profile in Pashto. Ciaran was a At Fettes, he coached the 1st XI Reserve Fusilier and worked in Football team and also nurtured a Corporate Intelligence and as a school allotment and established military linguist before choosing a film society. He enjoys music and plays guitar and trumpet. to change career into teaching. He is married to Anna and they have three children, Indigo, He is also a keen sportsman. He is married to Liza and they Felix and Skye. have a baby son, Charlie. SCHOOL NEWS 9

Naomi Pritchard has Alexandra Schmaller joins us taken over from Anna Peak as teacher of German, also from as Housemistress of Mary Sevenoaks School, where she Sidney Hall and also joins the was Head of German. Originally Economics and Business Studies from Germany, she has a BA in Faculties. Whilst completing English Literature & Media Studies two International Economics from the University of Teeside degrees at the University of the and a Postgraduate Diploma in West of England, she was also Education (MFL). Alex is a Sub- an Honorary Midshipman at the lieutenant CCF (Navy), a climbing Bristol University Royal Naval instructor and holds a scuba Unit. She then had a career in diving licence. She has assisted Financial Services, working for with DofE Bronze and Silver. She both multi-nationals and small companies in investments and also enjoys horse riding. pensions, but decided to retrain as a teacher and completed a PGCE. Following several years as an Economics and Business Studies teacher, sports coach and Sixth Form tutor at Kingswood and King Edward’s, Bath, she and her family returned to Shropshire in 2012. Since then, she worked in Emily Stokes joins the Art both pastoral and academic management roles at Adcote Faculty, specialising in 3-D. She School and was Acting Headteacher. She is married to Adam has a BA in Fine Art from the and they have three children, Harry, Faye and Bea. Slade School of Fine Art (UCL) and completed her PGCE in Art & Design at Jesus College, Cambridge. Emily joins us from Solihull School where she was teaching Art and DT. She has previously been a baker and Mark Roberts joins us as teacher freelance graphic designer of Mathematics and Computer before settling on teaching as her Science from Ellesmere College. chosen profession. She is training He has a BSc in Mathematics to be an officer in the CCF. and Computing and a MEd in Lifelong Learning from the Open University. He was a Flight Sergeant and Electronic Engineer in the Royal Air Force and is also a Tom Thorpe joins us as Rugby Union, cricket and football Graduate Sports Coach, coach, has a PADI Advanced Football. Tom completed his Open Water Diver qualification BSc in Sports Coaching at Leeds and has been leader of Duke of Metropolitan University and is Edinburgh Silver groups. currently studying for an MSc in Performance Analysis at Cardiff University. He has been working with Huddersfield Town AFC since September 2014.

Oliver Russell joins us as Head of Geography from Sevenoaks School. He has a BA in Geography from Girton College, Cambridge and a Maurice Walters joins as MPhil in Environmental Science Deputy Head (Academic) from with Quaternary Science from Canford School where he was Churchill College. He is a runner Head of Academic Enrichment. and has coached cross-country He has a BA Hons in Classical to a high level, as well as middle Archaeology & Ancient History distance athletic events, and both from St John’s College, Oxford. boys’ and girls’ hockey. He is His interests include music also a keen mountaineer and, as composition for piano and teacher in charge of the Duke of voice, many sports, video Edinburgh Silver Award at Sevenoaks, led an expedition to production and editing. He is the Himalayas. He is also a choral singer. During the October married to Emily and they have half-term exeat, he married Alexandra Schmaller. two children. 10 SCHOOL NEWS

VALETE

always believed that his subject should be open to all who are genuinely interested in it. This mirrors what he said about his book on the Marches – “I haven’t written it for experts; I’ve written it for interested people who want to find out more”. Andrew has always cared for and cared about his pupils. That compassion has led him to work closely alongside pupils who in many cases have found life, or academic life, tough. It has also led him to develop very firm bonds with some of the top performers in his subject. Earlier in the year, I was privileged to attend a presentation evening in the Science Lecture Theatre when three of his most illustrious former pupils returned. We welcomed back Nick Zoulias, Max Emmerich (a Sidney Gold Medal winner) and William Jones (who Andrew described as the outstanding Natural Historian of his generation). The three of them described their work now as established research scientists, and in doing so paid tribute to their mentor in the Biology Faculty at Shrewsbury. I couldn’t describe Andrew’s contribution to Shrewsbury without mentioning beekeeping. Shrewsbury’s beekeeping society has thrived for 40 years, most recently under Andrew. I know from first hand experience with tutees that there have been Shrewsbury pupils for whom the nurturing atmosphere within the beekeeping his annual speech day exhibitions, by Andrew Allott society was deeply influential on their presentations to prep school children, 1990-2016 personal development and increasing and by the Darwin Fresco on the Andrew joined Shrewsbury School in confidence at Shrewsbury. And it 1990, and took over as Head of Biology staircase which was commissioned in 2009 to celebrate the bicentenary of provided a wonderful contradiction in 2002. One expects any Head of in 2013. Many teachers at Shrewsbury Faculty to be passionate about their Charles Darwin. If you’re not familiar seek out competition. I think it’s fair to subject, but very few have lived their with it, do go in and look. And look say that Andrew does not. So I wonder subject to the same extent as Andrew. out too for the article in the Summer Here is the passionate horticulturalist 2016 Salopian magazine, in which how he felt when one of Shrewsbury’s with his allotment next to the San and Andrew applied his expertise to the national successes that year occurred with his own woodland, author of trees on the site. when Harry Boutflower was selected several Biology text books for the IB Andrew is a man of integrity and for the English national beekeeping alongside an authoritative text on the a man of academic integrity – on team, which competed in a European natural history of the Shropshire and several occasions I have known him competition in Austria. Welsh Marches. Being Head of Biology to go head to head with exam boards, Last year we bade farewell to Andrew’s in Darwin’s old school carries a particularly about the shortcomings and Churchillian son William, who supported prestige, perhaps, but also the pressure unfairness of coursework. At the top the Ashton Theatre and wider school of being in the spotlight. Andrew’s end, though, there have been regular community so superbly with his technical Biology department was endlessly successes in national Biology Olympiad expertise, and less than a year after fascinating with its own natural history competitions, alongside success in leaving school is Studio Manager for BBC museum, alongside a wide range of applications to Oxbridge and to live specimens. medical school. But Sixth Form Biology Radio 5 Live in Salford. We wish Andrew And his pride in his department and has been enjoyed by pupils of a wide and Alison every happiness in retirement. passion for his subject were typified by range of natural abilities, and he has Martin Cropper SCHOOL NEWS 11

Chris Minns of excursions and visits, still with 1984-2016 accommodation in families, but without the return leg. This proved Chris Minns – “Doc Minns” to all popular for a time, but the shift of and sundry – retired in the summer, GCSE exams towards the start of the after almost a hundred terms of Summer Term meant that for the distinguished and versatile service target year, the Vth Form, the Easter to the School. Years before, he had break had become a time for revision gone up to Oxford as a Scholar of and numbers for the trip fell below St Peter’s College, staying on as a a quorum – understandable, but postgraduate student and later Junior regrettable, for there had been a high Dean. It was to be Shrewsbury’s gain degree of “customer satisfaction” with that Chris called time early on life as a the programme offered. The boys and don and ventured into the potentially girls, many of whom were visiting more varied life of a schoolmaster. Germany for the first time, always After a brief stint at the Leys School, found something to interest them – Cambridge, he dropped anchor in when they were not eating. For those Shropshire, a mere forty miles from his of us who went back year after year, beloved home town of Chester, but he treading familiar paths, memories of retained a deep affection for St Peter’s, Hamburg’s Alster Lake in spring or the returning often to its celebrations and, sparkle of the Bavarian Alps live on. to mark its 70th anniversary, compiling They were good days. for which he was ideally suited. a volume of reminiscences collected The modern classroom is fast Introductory talks to new entrants and from the alumni. becoming (or has become) a digital to new staff were part of the brief, but While at the Leys, he was put in playground, a trend which was little in the key work lay in the investigation charge of Athletics, an incongruous evidence in Room L1. Harold Wilson’s of incidents to which the Act was appointment, though it was typical of “society forged in the white heat of the relevant. Compassionate, fair-minded, Chris that he would accept it. Perhaps technological revolution” had passed and above all, a good listener, Chris it was to escape that yoke that he was Chris by, though he did learn such took great trouble over his cases. That soon to return to the Situations Vacant tricks as had become essential to his one can say no more about how he pages – for one last time. Shrewsbury job – no more. Left to himself, he went performed his task is down to his offered a place in the Modern on distributing handwritten notes to regard for confidentiality; suffice to Languages department, with the his faculty team. The down side of note that he remained in post until prospect of in time becoming Head of running a minority subject is that there retirement. German, which he duly did, and for is a constant battle against the forces That Chris was able to undertake such the next twenty-seven years nobody of the “core” curriculum. Chris fought a load (including games) was only thought of replacing him. his corner tenaciously and leaves a made possible by his willingness to German has always been an optional department in good shape. work late into the night and by his subject, which has the advantage that The teaching of German was at the careful planning ahead. He had a strict those who take it on are, or should heart of his academic contribution, order of priorities and an entry in his be, keen, but it calls for a rigorous, but it was not the whole story. Early pocket diary, if not quite as immutable disciplined approach and Chris never in his career he was landed with the as the Law of the Medes and the pretended otherwise. He could, “graveyard slot” of Head of General Persians, was treated as a binding however, bring a light touch to what Studies, a task which called for much commitment, to be over-ridden only in might have been a grind. Morale admin and much goodwill. Chris the most urgent of circumstances. He was high and results rewarding. That brought his customary thoroughness was aware of the need for relaxation, twenty-four students should win to bear, and by a mixture of affability too, and fixtures such as the regular places at Oxford or Cambridge in his and dogged persuasion, kept the dinner hour, the weekly pub night, time was a source of justifiable pride, show on the road. The same could be and visits to Symphony Hall were but he took an equal interest in the said of his stewardship of Third Form “ring-fenced” in the schedule. He progress of every pupil, ensuring that Thursday afternoons, another “what do drove himself hard, all the same, and teaching was tailored to the latest we do with them?” proposition. Maybe most days he could be seen bustling thinking of exam boards. During the it was a mistake to run it so effectively like the White Rabbit from one exam season he gave freely of his time for so long, as it was to be ten years engagement to the next. to provide valuable extra sessions. before he was able to hand it over. Thus far the portrait of Dr Minns the The study of a language is not For most of his time, Chris occupied intellectual, the professional, but there complete without getting to know a flat adjacent to Moser’s and he is more to him, a lot more. He has the people who speak it and the was associated with that House for a sense of humour second to none environment in which it is spoken. almost thirty years as tutor or Assistant and his laugh, hearty and generous, For many years, Shrewsbury had a Housemaster. Serving under four is no whit diminished when the flourishing exchange with a school Housemasters, he gave valued support joke is against himself. His delight in Hamburg, but it came to end and counsel to them all and was a in the ridiculous finds its home in with the retirement from our partner popular figure round the House. the demented chaos of his favourite establishment of our good friend, In 1999, Ted Maidment asked him to sitcom, Fawlty Towers. Hubert Feulbach. Chris turned to take on the responsibility of Children Supporting Chester City (now Augsburg in Bavaria for a different Act Liaison (later Child Protection) reincarnated as Chester FC) may arrangement, involving a programme Officer, an inspired appointment, not count as relaxation, but support 12 SCHOOL NEWS

them he does, in the face of recurring adversity. Neither Educational, too, is conversation with Chris. He is well- their self-inflicted period of exile in Macclesfield nor their informed, but listens to others and does not seek to bankruptcy and banishment to the regional leagues could dominate discussion or to score points. Of how many shake his faith. Tolerant, reasonable, philanthropic, Chris is people can that be said? Yet by question and suggestion, all of these, but not on the day of a “Border Derby” against gently urged, he manages to dissuade one from making Wrexham. Of course, he knows that these things do not sweeping statements or unsupported judgements, teaching really matter. To the outsider, they don’t matter at all, but the by example the value of a moderate, considered stance, heart ever did rule the head and those who have given their neither sitting on the fence nor crudely trampling it down. heart to a football club have no choice but to follow. Not for As he embarks upon the Third Age, Chris is by no means Chris the so-called supporting from the sofa of Liverpool or a spent force. He may permit himself a measure of well- Manchester United; his pilgrimage takes him via the terraces earned self-indulgence, but he will not be idle, for he will of Gateshead, North Ferriby, and Boreham Wood. continue the process of self-improvement, which has been Throughout his career, however, he always put Shrewsbury the study of a life-time. He may even add to his published School football first. Calling on his great knowledge of the oeuvre, which so far consists of a thesis on 19th century game, he ran Junior teams and refereed House matches German fiction, the history of an Oxford College, and the with the same dedication as he brought to everything Chester City Quiz Book. else. Successive masters-in-charge have had reason to be During his time at Shrewsbury, Chris Minns has enriched grateful for his input and dependability. the life of the community and the esteem in which he is Travel, not only with the School, but on private “jaunts”, as held has never been more apparent than at the Modern he liked to call them, has been a major part of his life and Languages Faculty Reunion in May, when linguists past to have had the pleasure of accompanying him on many and present gathered to honour those leaving. It was a occasions has been an education. His skill as a linguist is mellow evening, brimming with affectionate nostalgia and by any standard exceptional, as is his immersion in the as the tributes flowed, there were tears amid the cheers for culture of the country visited and his ability to get on with an inspirational colleague and true friend. people of all ages is a rare gift, making him a popular Martin Knox house guest during our exchange/study visits.

Duncan Kirkby Radbrook, with Ted Maidment ‘sure players on to county level outside 1986-2016 that the Kirkbys will do Radbrook school. Above all he spent hours and hours on the games field coaching Duncan joined Shrewsbury School proud’. That proved very much to be the case. During a long and and refereeing in every imaginable to teach Biology in 1986 from distinguished period of 15 years weather. He was a brilliant coach: in Framlingham School after a short Radbrook was a happy and successful the 18 years I’ve witnessed his teams stint researching for the BBC. What place with Duncan giving his heart I’ve never once seen a DK side lose the the school thought it was getting and soul to the boys in his charge. scrummaging battle. was ‘a very enthusiastic all round Radbrook boys were typically schoolmaster’. This indeed proved to Until recently, I’ve never thought of characterful and confident, respectful be the case. Duncan as even close to being old and ambitious to do their best both enough to retire – he’s always looked Things started to happen for Duncan academically and on the broader stage. youthful despite the beard. Before his in 1989, the year in which he became Under Duncan, Radbrook footballers knee op, he always had a spring in his Master in Charge of Rugby, a position won First House five times. Silverware step – and he’s never lost the smile, that he held for 27 years up to and was nice and a sign of a house the belly laugh, twinkle in the eye or including this year. In the same year he going well, but Duncan gave his all knowing look. We’ll miss all of that had his first of many appraisals – yes, for each and every one of the boys and remember it warmly. We’ll miss we did them back then – and when in his house and DK’s Barmy Army his energy, his shrewd counsel and his asked for an analysis of his results, loved him in return and he became a friendship and support at school. Duncan briefly mentioned what was housemastering legend in their eyes. going on in Biology and went into Stuart Cowper I duly arrived and was welcomed into quite detailed explanations of how each the rugby coaching fold and enjoyed rugby team had done the previous year! many seasons working with Duncan. In spite of this, Ian Lacey, his Head I couldn’t praise Duncan’s dedication of Department, described him as and commitment highly enough as ‘a first-rate loyal member of staff – Master in Charge. Duncan organised totally dedicated’ and gave him some memorable tours to Canada, Ireland, wonderful advice for the future: ‘I hope Spain and Dorset; he spent equally he will try to cultivate interests outside long hours battling rugby’s corner school, including women.’ Duncan in numerous sports reviews (always took this sage advice and was married in good faith on behalf of the boys by 1993 to Nikki – in time for his next and what he saw to be the school’s appraisal. Duncan’s ambitions in his best interests for recruitment), was 1994 appraisal were ‘to continue with diplomatic when needed with spats rugby for as long as possible’ and a ‘to with Malvern and King’s Chester gain a housemastership’. regarding over exuberant post-match As if by magic a year later in 1995 celebrations, fostered valuable links Duncan took over as housemaster in with feeder prep schools, brought SCHOOL NEWS 13

open their doors to me and, following in between – including the occasional that lunch, I felt a hundred times more gripe about a less-than-proactive comfortable about the new school I Sixth Former! was about to move to. Matthew, Mel, Matthew’s contribution to the George and Vera were charming, funny broader school community has and compassionate company and I been wide-ranging and thorough; have very much enjoyed getting to never one to seek the limelight, he know them all in the months since. does all that he does for the primary It says much about Matthew’s caring benefit of the pupils. Matthew has nature that he was so welcoming of me spearheaded Senior and Junior in a strange new town that I wasn’t yet Debating and devoted huge reserves sure how to pronounce... of time and energy this year to the In the classroom, Matthew is a first EPQ programme. He is a passionate rate practitioner who commands advocate of independent research and the respect and adoration of his has imparted upon our pupils crucial charges. You need only witness the advice in this area. He contributed rapport between him and this year’s extensively to the academic extension Pre-U historians, many of whom programme of school life – notably the have developed a life-long passion school’s Bastille Society lecture series Matthew Clark for the subject thanks to Matthew’s and has attracted heavy hitting historical 2012-16 inspirational teaching. Indeed, some names to benefit our pupils beyond the have developed unhealthy obsessions classroom. Further, he has committed My abiding memory of Matthew will with Mao Zedong as a result of always be of a first rate historian, himself wholeheartedly to the spiritual Matthew’s China course! It goes without life of school and brought a sense of colleague and friend with a keen sense saying that to observe him in action is a of humour and a genuine warmth humility and calm to this vital aspect hugely positive experience – academic of school life.’ about him no matter the circumstance rigour, a calm atmosphere and a sense or situation. of purpose prevail at all times. I shall Matthew leaves us to take up a well I first got to know Matthew and his miss the rapport we’ve developed in deserved position as Head of History delightful family when they invited me and around Hodgson Hall – from chats at Our Lady’s, Abingdon. to lunch last summer. They were the about Mid-Tudor historiography to first of the Shrewsbury community to Trappist Belgian beers and everything Harry Mackridge

Paul Vicars and friendly greeting – I think it went ideal colleague. I have always known, 2001-16 something along the lines of ‘Oh b****r, whatever the situation, that Paul will do it’s the grim reaper …what the hell has Paul arrived in 2001 armed with the what he thinks is right understanding happened now?’ two key ingredients for success in that what is right isn’t always what is our Geography Faculty: a set of golf Paul has shown evidence of both good popular. He’s a colleague with honesty, clubs and newly-sharpened coloured and less impressive decision making integrity and someone whom I have pencils. In those early days Paul during his time here. His poor decision relied upon and trusted implicitly – put himself about a bit taking on making was clearly evidenced when he no matter what. Paul and Vikki will aspects of school life such as hockey decided to buy the house immediately be greatly missed and I do hope you next door to Port Hill Stores. His coaching, rugby coaching with Graham realise you have great friends here and evenings would therefore be regularly Barnes and me and the Challenge of that you will stay in touch. Management. It wasn’t long before his punctuated by boys (Grove obviously - pastoral prowess was identified and not Severn Hill) making illicit trips past Mike Tonks he was asked along with Kait Weston his living room window to the shop. to help me set up the School Council. I also remember a particular Saturday Promotion then followed to the role night in that House when a Moserite of Assistant Housemaster in Port Hill unwisely decided to pay attention to a before he answered the call to take local girl. Her boyfriend found out and up the reins in Severn Hill in 2006. brought half of the Priory Year 11 with Following Headmaster Mark Turner’s him. As a result swarms of Salopians cabinet reshuffle Paul joined the SLT sought refuge in Paul and Vikki’s house in 2012 as Deputy Head (Pastoral) a while waiting for the police to arrive. challenging and constantly developing On a more personal note, it was a role which he performed with complete delight for myself and Carla to witness, professionalism. from a discrete distance I might add, as Even with the best run Houses there the romance between Paul and Vikki is occasionally the need for the Second blossomed. We both remember with Master to call in of an evening. I went fondness their wedding in St Chad’s through a little patch of having to and in the years that followed the call into Severn Hill to discuss one or emergence of clan Vicars with Jack, two issues with Paul and what was Sam and Polly. especially lovely for me was the fact In closing I would sum up by saying that I always received such a warm that in so many ways Paul has been an 14 SCHOOL NEWS

Rob Morris charges, and the boys in Severn 2006-16 Hill where he tutored for much of Born and brought up in West his time at Shrewsbury, that he will London, Rob worked in a number of principally be remembered, the schools including Merchant Taylors’ boundary between fact and fiction Northwood and Manchester Grammar often deliberately blurred, with an School before joining the Shrewsbury instinctive feel for the sensational School Geography Faculty in 2006. always to the fore. During his ten years at Shrewsbury A prolific author, Rob wrote School Rob made a very significant Geography text books and articles for contribution, as a teacher with a number of educational publishers the rare quality of being able to and combined his job at Shrewsbury be simultaneously entertaining with the role of a senior examiner for and informative, as a dedicated Edexcel. He was also a chairman of football and cricket coach, referee the local branch of the Geographical and umpire, and as a sports Association and tireless in organising statistician and correspondent, with GA lectures at the school from which his prodigious knowledge and generations of geographers benefited the world of Geography in which enthusiasm for all matters sporting over the years. he will continue to be involved as a curriculum designer and examiner. ideally suiting him to this role. A substantial figure in every sense, But it is as a raconteur of rare Rob will be much missed as he distinction that many of his leaves Shrewsbury, but not, it seems Richard Hudson

As a tutor in Churchill’s her sense of poise and control communicated itself to a hallful of boys in the middle of House Dix on the occasion that the young son of the Housemaster commenced his trombone practice in the adjacent room during a protracted period of (planned) silence. Such was her success in maintaining the yoga- like dix that it concluded in good form against the intrusive cacophony of nearly unrecognisable intervals, and her wonderful sense of humour emerged in the aftermath with the re-telling of the story. Churchill’s also benefited from her considerable skills as a choreographer: the gyrations and movements built in to Oliver!, West Side Story and Cabaret were well-drilled and very effective. However it would be the Edinburgh production of Jekyll! that Sara would cite as one of the Sara Hankin considerable skill to bear in fulfilling highlights of her time at Shrewsbury: 1990-2016 that new role. Sara has been a great the demand for her input ran from the Employed to teach modern languages innovator and trailblazer throughout overall planning through the minutiae in 1990, Sara has been described as a her time here. of logistics, back stage and on to the model colleague by members of the A few narratives serve to illustrate boards themselves, and the input bore department; that she has the ability to some of the characteristics which have the all hallmarks of a competent and teach at any level in the school in any made Sara so indispensible. Her love of dedicated professional. of three languages with consummate language took her on a school trip to Sara’s empathy with others made success (and strings of A* grades) is Russia with (now retired) Peter Holgate, her very easy to work with in any no longer a surprise – that’s just Sara. shortly after perestroika and glasnost circumstance. When, as Deputy Head, A dedicated tutor in Churchill’s and opened up that possibility. Their nerves she organised an INSET on Emotional were sorely tested when they were then Ridgemount, she was appointed Intelligence it was like a breath of fresh effectively kidnapped, separated from as the first female Housemaster (her air; the person behind the job title was the students and taken to an unknown choice of term) in Porthill and then in always visible; her innate friendliness the very first girls’ house, Mary Sidney destination, yet with unflappable has been almost tangible. Hall, posts which she filled with great calm they were successfully reunited skill. When a vacancy occurred in the after being indulged in some local We wish Sara and Peter a very happy Senior Leadership team for a Deputy hospitality; their hosts’ generosity was retirement in whichever direction it Head (Staffing) she filled it, leaving a exceeded only in the bizarre nature of takes them. hard act to follow, and bringing all her its organisation! Philip Lapage SCHOOL NEWS 15

Steve Adams qualities of all great physics teachers, a listened. Heads of Faculties are used 1999-2016 deep understanding of how the bits fit to exchanging ideas within the Rugby together, without assuming anything, Group – a group of 20 schools like I first met Steve in 1995 when I arrived and without ever hiding behind the Shrewsbury. In science, there is also the to teach at Westminster School, and maths. He was excited about physics: 59 club – a body that stretches across Steve was already established as Head one double period, in one of his famous of Physics. I moved to Shrewsbury in the whole country and includes the “side tracks”, he explained the entire major heads of science from the Rugby 1997 and Steve followed in 1999 as standard model of modern physics. I Head of Physics and Head of Science. Group, Eton Group and beyond. Steve do attribute much of the success I had is a member of this – perhaps no great His teaching experience at Westminster in physics to his guidance, his teaching, and before that at Manchester Grammar surprise there – but for the past 7 years yes, but also the opportunities he gave he has been chairman, marking him School marked him down as a us (IYPT, Olympiad papers) and more, heavyweight when he arrived. down among his peers as perhaps the belief in our abilities.” most respected head of science of all. One of the things that we like to David continues: “Perhaps the most Intellectual and academic powerhouse feel characterises Shrewsbury is an personal thing I can offer is to say that independence and individuality – a yes, but also all-round school teacher. Steve did and does have a deep spiritual One of the best of all classroom confidence to explore one’s own connection to physics and to education, passions. Steve, along with Tim practitioners, Tutor in Moser’s, Sixth and a love of his students. In my second Form Tutor, tennis coach, staff footballer. Whitehead, were the two Heads of year at university I wrote and directed To everything he has brought an energy Faculties who argued the case for a play titled “The Two Cultures”. It was and a youthful enthusiasm. It seems Shrewsbury embarking on Pre-U courses a passionate cry to artists and scientists ridiculous that Steve is retiring. But there from the very beginning. His experience – put aside your differences! – focus we are. Time to travel and to enjoy his both in the exam world and the broader on the beauty in your work! Steve was property in Brittany, time to write and science community gave Jeremy one of the first people to see the script. Goulding, then headmaster, and me Even now I think he is the only person to deliver training on behalf of the exam the confidence to follow their instincts. to have understood the struggle inside boards. But also marriage to Alison There is no doubt that Shrewsbury has me that gave birth to it – because he at the end of the year. Steve and Ali benefited from the stretch involved in experiences it too.” have been the most generous of hosts Pre-U, and it is telling that we now see to scientists and even the occasional In his 17 years as Head of Science, almost half our subjects being assessed mathematician over many years, laying Steve has been at the very forefront of in this way. But Steve did not only on numerous parties at their home our academic provision, and I was very with music provided by our physics introduce Pre-U Physics, but also Global grateful for his input to the Academic technician, Al Doyle. We wish Steve Perspectives, a Critical Thinking course, Committee. Steve spoke with authority and Ali every happiness, and to Steve – and also GCSE Astronomy and here and with a command of the wider one sees the breadth of his academic implications of any decision, and he thank you, and good luck. interests. When the English Faculty ran had the complete respect of those who Martin Cropper a staff competition as part of National Poetry Day a couple of years ago, who won? Steve. Beyond syllabuses, nobody has done more than Steve to provide stretch outside the curriculum. In the same way that Pre-U was an example of thinking outside the box, so too was the IYPT, Here was a competition with an international reach, preparing 17 university level problems over the preceding year and resulting in a series of Physics fights – debating high level Physics with international opponents. And not content with taking part, Steve and John Balcombe volunteered Shrewsbury to host the event in 2014. In anticipation, Steve said “Think London 2012 – well, maybe on not quite a such a large scale, but we hope it will have the same feel-good factor.” There is no doubt that some of Shrewsbury’s very best brains of the past decade – pupils like Philip Legner and David Kell – have benefited hugely from the IYPT. It is telling that David, who I remember as perhaps the cleverest mathematician I have taught here, should go on to get a 1st in Physics and Philosophy at Oxford – that has the Steve Adams stamp all over it. Indeed, I emailed David last week to say that I would be speaking today – David sent through the following thoughts: “For his teaching style, Steve had the 16 SCHOOL NEWS

Shrewsbury School and the Shewsy join forces in Malawi

During the summer, a team of 24 Shrewsbury School pupils, staff members and young people from the Shewsy travelled to Mtunthama in Malawi, where they worked together as volunteers for the Shropshire-based charity Medic Malawi.

his was the third trip from We never know what jobs will be most unloaded and logged all 25 suitcases of TShrewsbury to the Medic Malawi helpful until we arrive at the Medic medical donations that we’d brought, project, which includes a hospital, an Malawi project. This time it was painting took on football (and Fives) teams, and orphanage, a nutrition centre and the the Pharmacy extension walls, ready for hosted a British children’s party to finish Shrewsbury School Eye Clinic, which the official opening at the end of the the week. was opened in 2014. It was the first joint same week; all the school textbooks In doing these activities, alongside trip with the Shewsy and it proved to from the old stock room needed moving Malawian teenagers of their own be the most successful one yet, as Mrs to the new library (the teachers were age, friendships were formed and keen for us to do this, rather than the Drew describes: experiences exchanged. A deeper pupils, as they knew we wouldn’t be understanding of those who have few “There was a positive, ‘can do’ attitude tempted to take a precious textbook things, and fewer choices, but who from all the young people. They home with us); and the eye surgery have a strong sense of the importance only needed to be told something patients were each to be interviewed of community, has resulted. This year, once – important when an elephant is before their operations. that meeting of cultures continued ‘out approaching at close range – and looked Those who were planning careers of hours’ too, and it was fascinating for ways that they could actively help in medicine were offered a precious to watch friendships, (and sparring each other, the staff, and those they met. invitation by the hospital clinicians to partners!) emerge naturally from a shadow them in their busy working day. group of young people from Liverpool, As ever, we worked in teams to Shrewsbury and beyond. help wash, change and feed babies; The 24 who went had raised a weighed and fed malnourished children, phenomenal amount of money SCHOOL NEWS 17

could see a group of patients being led into the Shrewsbury Eye Clinic. Some had two eye patches; most had one. A definite highlight of the whole trip was to see these patients have their bandages removed. Some patients just smiled, some appeared confused, one elderly man got up and started to dance, another yelled ‘I can see!’ I noticed a few misty eyes (including my own), when all the patients broke out into a celebratory gospel song to give thanks and praise. Smiles all round when all the patients received a pair of sunglasses – donated by the ‘Spirit of Shankly’ Liverpool Supporters’ Club. We asked what the beforehand – £25,000 – and some of the staple food, maize flour, bought words of the song meant and were media interest; and it was fun to be with our money before the prices go up. told, by the nurse who couldn’t resist dancing along while she gave out the able to collect a shopping list from the It was a great privilege to sit on the floor Orphanage and go to the local market to of the Shrewsbury School Eye Clinic eye drops, that someone had made it up see just how far 100,000 Kwacha (£100) while 20 patients had their eye patches on the spot, and it went ‘This is what we wanted, this is indeed what would go. It covered 11 pairs of boys’ removed. In the words of that day’s we wanted’.” trousers, 18 pairs of shoes and much official diarist, Julie Fitzpatrick, Youth more. We were there to see the food Worker at the Shewsy: shopping arrive too: six months’ worth “Early start – breakfast at 7am – so we Lesley Drew 18 SCHOOL NEWS

Sponsored Walk for the Shewsy raises over £80,000

undraising goes on all the time at Shrewsbury School challenging target, all in aid of those who live in challenging Ffor ‘the Shewsy’ (Shrewsbury House), the youth club in circumstances. We walked for a better future for others, and Everton, Liverpool that was set up by Shrewsbury masters in we’ve made a big difference.” 1903 and provides a vital lifeline for many young people in one of the poorest wards in Europe. But once every five years, the whole School heads out into the South Shropshire hills to take part in a 20-mile sponsored walk, in an effort to raise enough money to give a major boost to the Club’s coffers. The last walk in 2011 raised £50,000. This year, an ambitious target of £70,000 was set, and charity volunteers in every House were charged with encouraging their fellow pupils to do as much as they possibly could to try and reach that goal. We are delighted to report that at the time of going to press on this magazine, we had raised more than £80,000. Dave Brereton, Senior Youth Worker at the Shewsy, was uncharacteristically lost for words when he was told the final total. When he had recovered himself somewhat, he expressed on behalf of the staff and young people their huge delight and enormous gratitude: “This is an astonishing amount of money raised and far exceeds our wildest expectations. The generosity and dedication of Shrewsbury School pupils, staff and supporters will enable us to continue to offer engaging and challenging opportunities for club members. This funding is a lifeline for the young people of Everton. Club members and staff have been completely overwhelmed by the amount raised and this has given all at the club a massive boost to morale and to what we are able to plan for the immediate future.” In her email to all pupils and staff announcing the grand total, the School’s Charities Coordinator Mrs Drew, who had herself worked tirelessly to help chivvy everyone along, paid tribute to the whole School and the effort they had put in: “Well done to absolutely everyone, and especially to Mr David for organising the Walk: a challenging walk, and a SCHOOL NEWS 19

L-R: Tristan Lywood, Lesley Drew, Rob Hartwell, Max Morris, Dave Brereton, Mark Turner (Headmaster), Fergus David, Sergey Vartanov, Nick David 20 SCHOOL NEWS

The Chatri Design Centre

he metamorphosis of the Lyle creative and innovative endeavour – by any teacher for use with their class. TBuilding into a state-of-the-art and on a more public stage.” We also have a smaller WiFi-only centre for Design and Technology, “There are three multi-media design teaching room, where GCSE and A Information Technology and studios and a multi-material workshop Level students can concentrate on their Computing began as soon as its that includes Computer-Aided Design studies, utilising their own devices former inhabitants – Geography, software modelling, a CNC milling where appropriate, either for note- Philosophy and Theology – moved machine and lathe, laser-cutting and taking or coursework. We are also very out at the end of the Summer high quality 3D printing facilities. fortunate in having a new generation Term 2015 to take up new and These wonderful spaces mean that of giant touch-screen displays at the happy residence in Hodgson Hall. fundamentally traditional research, front of each classroom to present By the start of the new academic drafting, sketching and material material to pupils. year in September 2016, the full fabrication are happily residing transformation had taken place and “The new building acts as a alongside cutting-edge technologies.” the Chatri Design Centre was open springboard to re-invigorate and and ready for business. Head of ICT and Computing Paul stimulate interest in the subject. This Kaye is equally delighted with the year we have launched a new coding The building is named after the lead new facilities: “We have two full-sized activity in Societies Hour and the high benefactor, Chatri Sophonpanich, and computer rooms which are to be used take-up, particularly amongst younger the Shrewsbury School Foundation within the Faculty or can be booked pupils, has been very encouraging.” were delighted to welcome both his son, Chali and wife, Celia, who travelled from Thailand to perform the official Opening Ceremony on 1st October, Old Salopian Day. After speeches by the Headmaster and former Chairman of Governors, Richard Burbidge, guests were able to enjoy looking round the building and admire the exhibition space, workshops and classrooms; staff were only too happy to answer questions. “We are delighted that we can now deliver Design & Technology in a building that reflects the cutting-edge nature of our subject,” said Kevin Lloyd, Head of Design & Technology. “Pupils are taking full advantage of the new working environment, and with an exhibition space right at the centre of the School Site, it gives us the opportunity to celebrate their SCHOOL NEWS 21

Picture Perfect: A Portrait of Dorian Gray The Junior School Play 2016 “Youth is the only thing worth having,” declares the eponymous Dorian Gray in Oscar Wilde’s 1890 novel, brought to the Ashton Theatre stage under Helen Brown’s direction for this year’s Junior Play.

s relevant today as it was when Awritten, we are thrust into the murky world of an individual’s relentless pursuit for eternal youth and his obsessions with beauty and aesthetic perfection. These are weighty themes to be dealing with, but this young cast of Third and Fourth Formers were superb in delivering a memorable and haunting performance. Even before the play began the audience were confronted with a sense of the Uncanny, the pre-show set on closer inspection revealing many of the cast members frozen still behind the apertures of large-scale picture frames with the whole stage one vast gallery of paintings. Erin Leatherbarrow’s set design subtly recreated the Victorian setting, with Gothic undertones of velvet curtains, maudlin portraits and hidden staircases. Under the Svengali-like spell of Toby Pattinson’s hedonistic aristocrat Lord Wotton, the young Dorian Gray (played with typical poise by Freddy Williams) enters into a battle with Stripped down to the etchings on its Clark to the actress Sybil Vane, her mortality, selling his soul in exchange canvas, this is of course a play that tragic demise sensitively portrayed by for perpetual youth. It will be his paints a portrait of moral abandonment. Eve Hartley. Sybil’s brother James (Elliot portrait that ages instead, recording The dream-like descent into this inferno Crossley in fine form) seeks vengeance, in horrifying detail the sins of his of desire was captured masterfully in but ultimately it is Gray himself who libertine life of debauchery and self- the play in the dream-like sequences takes the knife in hand and destroys interest. The artist of this portrait – Basil under a thick smokescreen that himself by slashing the portrait and in Hallward – is very much the voice of submerged the characters into a so doing restoring the painting to its reason and morality in the play, his subterranean London redolent of a former glory. abhorrence and despair given gravitas JMW Turner landscape. With echoes Freddy Williams deserves considerable by Koby Ferdinand Okpala. Likewise, of the physical theatre practitioners plaudits for tackling such a complex Harry Remnant’s butler-cum-narrator Frantic Assembly, these balletic role and both he and the cast can be Francis provided a counterpoint to the sequences were mesmerising in their very proud of a first-rate production spiralling descent of the increasingly depiction of Gray’s descent, and the that provided a wonderful final wild anti-hero Dorian Gray. cast demonstrated their considerable brushstroke to what has been an wide-ranging skills in being able to exceptional year of drama. Shrewsbury cope with the technical challenges of School’s Director of Drama Helen this choreography. Brown once again delivered a masterpiece with A Picture of Dorian

Gray and she can add this to an This was certainly a strong and highly increasingly impressive gallery of work able cast, from Abi Watkinson’s that has been typified by a combination dignified depiction of the long-suffering of attention to detail and invention. Lady Wotton to the triumvirate of Peter Middleton Charlotte Roberts, Charlie Tonks and Lizzie Ware who, fans in hand, provided a scathing commentary on London high society, the original ‘gossip girls’ perhaps. Many fall victim to the juggernaut that Dorian Gray becomes, from the brilliant doctor Alan Campbell played by Aaron 22 SCHOOL NEWS

Expectations met in Edinburgh

he Edinburgh Fringe Festival is offering from the award-winning A level results. I have rarely worked TEurope’s biggest arts event; every writing partnership of John Moore and with a company who cared so much August, thousands of performers Peter Fanning. We first performed the for each other: it was a pleasure and a descend upon the city, transforming show in November at the Ashton, but privilege to direct them. every pub, coffee shop and street we knew that it would need a radical I think that their sense of camaraderie corner into a theatre. It is the most rewrite to transform it into a touring spilled off the stage: although critics extraordinarily vibrant, exciting, diverse production. In Shrewsbury, we had singled out ‘Antonia Wordie’s soaring cultural experience – at any point of the luxuries of a complex set, multiple bell-like soprano’ and Luke Lloyd Jones’ the day or night you can be watching costume changes and a permanent ‘hauntingly Byronic portrayal of Pip’, a stand-up comic, an a capella group, sound and lighting rig – in Edinburgh, for me, the greatest strength of the a production of Shakespeare or a we had fifteen minutes before the show production was the ensemble. All of juggling unicyclist. Shrewsbury has to get into the theatre, build our set and been taking shows up to the Fringe for perform all the necessary sound checks twenty five years: this year’s production before opening the doors to a paying of Great Expectations was the latest audience. It was frenetic, terrifying – and the greatest buzz imaginable. The fact that the whole thing was possible is tribute to the amazing professionalism and talent of the cast, crew and band, all of whom had given up three weeks of their holiday to rehearse and perform the show. The cast came from every year group of the school and nine different houses, but as soon as they moved into The the actors were on stage all of the time, Grove to start rehearsals, they became with the principals sinking back into a tight-knit and incredibly supportive the chorus between scenes. Whether family. Many of the memories that delivering Sian Archer’s ‘inventive will stay with me have little to do choreography’, belting out four-part with what happened on stage: Angus harmonies or simply watching the story and James’ expressions of genuine unfold, they were totally committed wonder when they learned how to use and focused to the success of the piece a washing machine; Alfie’s incredible as a whole. mashed potato; the power summit in The band are the unsung heroes of the kitchen at 6am on the morning of every musical – hidden away in the SCHOOL NEWS 23 balcony, they get all of the stress and their moment in the limelight. In the little of the glory. During the hottest troglodyte world of techies, Alex week on record, they battled soaring Davies, Will James, James Brown and temperatures, technical mishaps and Will Allott are giants: no matter what rogue key changes to play on – and to is asked of them, at what volume persuade Dougie Major to remain at or with what little notice, it will be least partially clad. Vicky Kirk, Henry delivered. The sight of Alex running Newbould, Andrew Chan, Steffan through the streets of Edinburgh, quite Williams, Harry Sargeant, Dougie literally carrying the set on his back, is Major and Jonty Robinson – under the a beautiful thing. direction, of course, of John Moore Finally, enormous thanks are due to – made up what the British Theatre Toby Percival and Lauren Temple, Guide called ‘a splendid orchestra, who kept us all fed, safe and happy, which performed with skill and providing the cast with nutella and the immense proficiency’. director with gin. Without them, we The technical crew, too, deserve would never have made it up the M6.

Drama Showcase

he termly Drama and Dance showcases are designed supported by stalwarts of the Drama Department, with strong Tto give students a chance to perform outside the formal performances from Rider Hartley, Freddy Williams, Niamh structure of school and house plays. Over the past few Thomas and Katie Edwards. The finale – a mash-up of all the years, they have produced some of the most engaging and best bits from ‘Les Miserables’, directed by Dan Powell – was entertaining performances the School has seen, and this a reminder that the School’s tradition of musical theatre is in October’s event proved no exception. The programme was safe hands. (If more evidence were needed, please see my hugely varied, demonstrating the breadth of theatrical styles review of ‘Great Expectations’ above.) Salopians are exploring. However, this term, it was the dancers who really stole As the first showcase of the year, this evening introduced the show. In particular, Niamh Thomas’ beautiful, self- the school audience to our newest crop of Drama Scholars. choreographed performance to Hozier’s ‘Work Song’ In the Third Form, we welcome Phoebe Morris, Imogen demonstrated extraordinary musicality and depth of feeling, Morgan and Orlando Williams. Phoebe performed a piece whilst Angel Chan may be the first student to have brought from ‘As You Like It’ with great verve and humour, whilst hip hop to the Ashton Theatre. Both girls will be performing Orlando gave us a beautifully lyrical rendition of ‘Under Milk as Kit Kat dancers in November’s school production of Wood’. Imogen was taken under the wing of Eleanor Niblett, Kander and Ebb’s ‘Cabaret’, which looks set to be a really with whom she performed an extract from Tony Kushner’s exciting performance. Next term, dance will be taking centre masterpiece, ‘Angels in America.’ stage at the showcase, so dust off those pointe shoes and break out your jazz hands! Our new Sixth Form scholar, Nina Churchill, then gave us an extremely powerful piece based on verbatim material from the Stamford ‘Emily Doe’ trial. These newcomers were ably Helen Brown 24 SCHOOL NEWS

Cabaret Senior School Musical

While individual performances were mesmerising, the true strength of the piece lay in its ensemble work. Wonderful movement, slick set- changes and fantastic singing held the audience captivated from start to finish. The musicians of the band also deserve a very special mention – the music was not only technically accurate, but also delivered with enormous expression and pathos. The standard of the instrumental performances was all the more astonishing for the youth of some of the players in the band – Jonty Gould and Phoebe Morris making their musical theatre debut while only in the Third Form, and Archie Cabaret is one of the more challenging end of the production was astonishing Eyres single-handedly negotiating the works in the musical theatre canon for its technical accuracy and poignancy challenges of the lead trumpet line – charting, as it does, the inexorable – allowed the cast to exude energy and whilst still only a Fourth Former. Also decline of Berlin into a world of Nazi enthusiasm. worthy of particular note was the ideology, prejudice and intolerance. Outside of the club, however, life was quality of percussion provided by the Far from the conventional fripperies a very different story. The unfolding very talented Joe Dodd on the kit – so associated with the genre, its themes romance between Clifford – an many of Cabaret’s numbers demand are dark and its messages are profound aspiring, but failing novelist played with that strongly pronounced beat to drive and it would be easy to assume that to real gravity and sensitivity by James them along and he provided it with mount any production of this complex Fearn – and one-time Kit-Kat dancer absolute panache. play would be a challenge too great for and serial man-eater Sally (brought The set, designed and constructed by a group of Salopians at the end of an to life on stage by Jessie Inglis-Jones) Willem James and Alex Davies, bore intensely busy Michaelmas Term. This – was presented as touchingly and out the message of the play superbly was a challenge, however, to which tragically naïve. These compelling well, enhanced by the skilful use of Helen Brown’s cast and crew rose performances were further enhanced lighting effects controlled by Michelle magnificently. by wonderfully mature vocals from Lam, Tom Brennan, Max Wilkie and From the moment the house opened, both and Jessie’s heart-rending version Freddy Lawson. As bricks hurtled the audience were welcomed into of the well-known Maybe This Time through windows and lovers were torn the world of the seedy Kit-Kat Club will remain with me for some time. apart, the giant grotesque letters of the in a grimy corner of 1930s Berlin. As the play unfolds, the characters word Cabaret, illuminated by dozens Red lampshades dangling from of individual bulbs, were a visual respond to the growth of radicalism the ceiling, bistro tables and chairs reinforcement of Sally Bowles’ defiant and racism in various ways – from with their characteristic telephones question ‘What’s politics got to do with the ruthless pragmatism of Nina and enthusiastic greetings from cast us?’ As the world deteriorated around Churchill’s Fräulein Kost (whose shady members transported us immediately to them the performers of the Kit-Kat club business practices brought well-timed that other time and place. The club was danced on in denial of the truth until, comic lightness in the play’s bleaker presided over, of course, by The M.C., horrifically, it was too late. moments) to the blind subservience of played with expert humour by the witty This was certainly a production which and expressive Ben Higgins. Acting Toby Pattinson’s Ernst Ludvig whose ironic and symbolic bow at the play’s will live on long in the Shrewsbury as a bridge between the action of the memory – a spellbinding spectacular play and the audience, he epitomised final denouement would have sent a chill down anyone’s spine. with a pertinent message for all who the ethic of the epoch and skilfully live in interesting times. embodied an attitude of wilful political Wonderful tenderness and deep Maurice Walters ignorance and obsession with the sadness characterised the hugely pursuit of pleasure. intelligent performances of Robin As John Moore’s band dazzled Huber and Angus Kincaid (Fräulein the audience with a wonderfully Schneider and Herr Shultz) whose ill- professional sound (managed with fated passion was kindled beautifully precision by Willem James), the cast and then brought to its conclusion with of Kit-Kat Girls and Boys assembled despairing finality. Robin’s performance in set-piece after set-piece – luring the of So What? was a remarkable feat – audience into a world of hedonistic conveying all at once the vulnerability decadence. Sian Archer’s ingenious of her character’s widowhood and the choreography – rehearsed to perfection feistiness and strength she had been by dance captain Niamh Thomas, forced to develop through years of whose own dance solo towards the living alone. SCHOOL NEWS 25

Music

The Summer Term now traditionally concludes with Salopian Week, a feast of the arts, with something for virtually everyone on offer. At a time when many schools have shut up shop in terms of performance, Shrewsbury presses the accelerator pedal and goes for it. Notwithstanding the fact that many of the pupils must be exhausted from exams and in need of the summer holidays, or in some cases are simply de-mob happy in the final few days of their school careers, what our pupils achieve in that last week of term is truly wonderful.

This year it actually started on the Saturday before Salopian Week with a wonderful evening of operatic extracts performed by members of the Shrewsbury School Community Choir joined by some of our fine young solo singers in the Alington Hall. Special mention should be made of Loren Kell, who when not leading the orchestra as a violinist, was simply outstanding in her two years at the School as a solo soprano on many occasions. This performance was no exception, as she entranced her audience singing the role of Santuzza in the Easter Hymn from Cavalleria rusticana, Dido’s lament from Dido and Aeneas and much more. She was joined by other young singers who teamed up with the adult chorus in a wonderfully moving performance of the finale from Bernstein’s opera Candide. Loren Kell (Eurydice) and Alfred Mitchell (Jupiter) in ‘Orpheus in the Underworld’, April 2016

The final Monday of the Summer Term depth. It is good to know, though, concert of current and Old Salopians saw a moving Leavers’ Concert. This that the work of the Salopian Club’s in London’s magnificent Cadogan Hall is always a special occasion, as we Arts network should hopefully make in March 2017 – the first of many such bid farewell to yet another talented it easier to keep in touch with these events, we hope. group of senior musicians. Every year talented young performers in later life, The Wednesday evening of Salopian as a teacher it gets harder to do so, and to build those precious bridges Week is given over to an evening of and indeed this was among the finest between them and the School if they Popular Music, and this event always year groups of musicians that we can wish to do so. We are very much reveals some amazing depths of talent in the field of contemporary rock and remember, with genuine strength in looking forward to our first combined pop. This year was no exception, and Rob Shone and his team did a terrific job at putting on a varied programme of bands and solo singers who dazzled an audience of parents, pupils and staff. It is terrific that Shrewsbury can embrace and nurture so diverse a musical world for the pupils to inhabit as they wish. The innovation of a large marquee in which to house events during Salopian Week, culminating of course with Speech Day itself, and the overnight transformation of the marquee from concert venue into the more formal arrangement for 1500 parents, staff, pupils, Governors, Headmaster and guest of honour, is remarkably achieved. But what happens the evening before is no less remarkable, as pupils perform a concert which traditionally begins at 8.30 pm and Ursule Tanjanskaite rarely finishes before 11.00 pm. 26 SCHOOL NEWS

This year there were some wonderful highlights, including Ursule Taujanskaite’s superb solo flute performance of Hungarian Fantasy by Franz Doppler, Henry Newbould’s lively account of the last movement of a Weber Bassoon Concerto with Orchestra, Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, film music from Gladiator, extracts from Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld, sung by some of the cast from the production earlier in the term, this time with orchestra and including the wonderful overture with its famous CanCan. Then to round off the evening, some Last Night of the Proms favourites, concluding with an orchestral version of the School song, lustily accompanied by some enthusiastic singing from the hundreds of parents and friends who had come to picnic, party and soak up the atmosphere of this special event.

And so the year ended. Or did it? Not Kevin Jim yet, for the Edinburgh Fringe loomed inspiring places – recent venues have which included the Noble A minor large in the minds of this particular included St George’s Chapel, Windsor canticles and an anthem composed by writer and the pupils who made up the and The Queen’s College, Oxford. In Alex Mason himself, which has rapidly cast of Great Expectations, destined for the third week of the Michaelmas Term, become a choir favourite. a remarkable week’s run at this year’s it was the turn of the ‘other place’ Other musical highlights from the Edinburgh Festival (as described on as 65 Salopians processed into the term have included the House Singing page 22). magnificent and intimate perpendicular Competition (see page 28) and the choir of Jesus College, Cambridge, the The Michaelmas Term began, as ever, St Cecilia Concerts, which are reviewed College that Thomas Cranmer, author with the excitement of welcoming a opposite by James Fraser-Andrews. of the 16th century Service of Evensong whole host of fresh musical talent to At the time of going to press, we itself, attended, investing the occasion were embarking on the first of four Shrewsbury, revealed to the wider with special significance. school community for the first time in performances of ‘Cabaret’, this year’s Director of Chapel Music Alex Mason the New Entrants’ Concert. This year Senior School Musical – sold out before had confessed on the eve of the the programme was longer and more the opening night – and preparing for trip that with so many of the singers varied than ever and the standard the first of the three Carol Services a having only recently joined the School, week later. was exceptionally high, with some it was uncomfortably, early in the really outstanding performances. As None of this could ever happen, though, term to be showing off the Choir in the audience will testify, the next few without the efforts of the dedicated such a prestigious venue. But his instrumental and vocal teachers at years of music at Shrewsbury look apprehensions proved unfounded as, very bright indeed. Shrewsbury and the staff who make up aided by the extraordinarily limpid the Music Faculty at Shrewsbury. Our The Chapel Choir has become acoustic of the chapel, they sang their Secretary Karen Wilding, who retired at accustomed to singing evensong in hearts out in a selection of music the end of October, has given ten years wonderful service to the Shrewsbury community and to literally hundreds of Salopian musicians. She leaves with our very best wishes for a happy and relaxing retirement in France with her husband Keith. Also key in the whole process of our concerts and performances at Shrewsbury is our Events Manager Juliet Young, whose tireless efforts have ensured the smooth running of so many events this year, along with General Services Manager Philip Walker and many other support staff at the School, not least Alex Davies, our tireless Theatre Technician, whom we welcomed back to Shrewsbury earlier on in 2016.

Rob Shone John Moore, Director of Music SCHOOL NEWS 27

St Cecilia Concerts

hat passion cannot Music raise maturity beyond his young years; the evening, with inviting tone and Wand quell?’ asked John Dryden Gabrieli’s Canzon Duodecimi Toni, diction held in fine balance. The elegiac in his Song for St Cecilia in 1687. which followed, admitted no let-up in cadences of Autumn Leaves were Shrewsbury’s musicians posed the same tight, confident ensemble playing – and particularly well-judged and fitting for a question with artfulness, musicality, none was given. performance on Remembrance Sunday. energy, and evident delight. In what is Liszt’s concerto is a complex piece Amid the exciting extremities of surely just one of the musical highlights with islands of chamber-like intimacy Poulenc’s sound world in the Gloria, of the term, this year’s St Cecilia’s existing alongside imposing cathedrals Old Salopian Lauren Kell (EDH 2014- Concerts engaged with a programme of sound within its broad sweep. John 16) provided a still point in the eye of full of ambition, impact and intriguing Moore’s baton coaxed performances a well-controlled storm – as the Agnus echoes across centuries of music- of impressive dexterity from his Dei demonstrated, hers is a voice that making. Rabble-rousing between young performers to bring out these embraces an affecting fragility without Shakespeare’s Falstaff and Prince Hal contrasting textures in moments of real ever allowing its core strength to sag; made good boisterous company with connection with the piano. Impressive how wonderful to hear her again. Henry VIII’s own chart-busting song; poise and technique at the keyboard Behind Miss Kell, the combined forces Gabrieli’s agile brass polyphony of won Arthur Yu deserving acclaim. of Shrewsbury School Chapel Choir the High Renaissance supplied even His bravura octaves which closed the and the School’s Community Choir greater lustre to the well-drilled glow finale’s concluding firework display provided all the melodic muscle and of Poulenc’s by-turns salacious and brought the audience to its feet, but vivacious, unerring sense of rhythm ferocious Gloria; two giants of the his duet with Henry Mayhew (PH LVI) that the piece demands. Austro-Hungarian Empire struck us on clarinet in the lush opening of the back into our seats as Haydn’s London second movement was just as musically The evening closed with Gallimaufry, Symphony stepped sumptuously into achieved, and one of the night’s a musical exploration of Shakespeare’s the wake of Liszt’s first piano concerto, unforgettable moments. Henry IV Parts 1 and 2, by Guy so dazzlingly negotiated through the This authentic feel for elegance was Woolfenden, who died this year. At artistry of pianist Arthur Yu (SH UVI). never far from the surface of the London the end of such a tumultuous evening, The thread to all this was fluent and Symphony in a conception that fizzed it was testament to the youthful thoughtful musicianship, the hallmark with fervour and impishness: whenever energies of the musicians of the Wind of Salopian performances. No more John Moore gave full throttle to some Orchestra (and those of conductor so than in the evening’s opener, Cai accomplished string playing, ably led Maria McKenzie) that they injected Isfryn’s arrangement of Branwen, a by Marvin Hui (M UVI), it was never such freshness and vigour into this sensuous meditation on the Welsh breathless but remained in touch and in quirky and inventive mini-opera of a goddess of love. With its slow-moving keeping with its overall stately design. suite - there was even a spot for Mr cascade of ruminative colours, soloist Dympna Nightingale’s Chamber Choir Besterman’s refereeing whistle. Now Frank Coughlan (SH IV) captured provided a deliciously smooth a that’s co-curricular. its beguiling essence with a tuneful cappella entrée to the choral part of James Fraser-Andrews 28 SCHOOL NEWS

House Singing Competition 2016

The first half of the Michaelmas Term finished in rousing style with the House Singing Competition.

It was generally agreed among adjudicators and audience alike that the standard of both music and entertainment was as high as ever this year and that it was very evenly spread across all the Houses. Particular highlights included Rigg’s Hall winning not only the Most Improved House award but also the Unison Cup (the first time they have enjoyed this level of achievement for many years), a final swan song from the men of Moser’s Hall, including their Housemaster and Tutors, and a joyous and radiantly colourful end to the evening from Mary Sidney Hall, winners of this years’ Unison trophy.

Entertainment Cup: Oldham’s Hall Unison Cup and Most Improved House trophy: Rigg’s Hall

Overall Trophy and Best Arrangement: Mary Sidney Hall SCHOOL NEWS 29

Wilfred Owen Memorial Event James Fraser-Andrews, a member of the Shrewsbury School English Faculty, is working with the Friends of St Chad’s Church to organise a centenary memorial commemorating Wilfred Owen’s arrival on the Western Front in January 1917.

As Shrewsbury’s church bells rang out to celebrate the that uphold the original sense of the word – works that Armistice on 11th November 1918, a postman delivered a represent the passage from apprenticeship to genuine telegram to Monkmoor Road for Tom and Susan Owen. It mastery of his craft. contained the news that their eldest son, Wilfred, was dead, One hundred years on, Owen’s experiences will be killed in action seven days before. Wilfred Owen’s poetry explored from illuminating angles in a day involving both was not yet known outside his own narrow circle of the town and Shrewsbury School. The morning will see literary confidantes, but after his death his literary fame a tour of Shrewsbury’s links to its most famous son led began to grow. Benjamin Britten’s settings of his poetry in by Helen McPhail, former chairman of the Wilfred Owen his War Requiem in 1962 eventually established Owen’s Association, while the afternoon is devoted to lectures centrality in our understanding of what Owen himself in St Chad’s by leading academics who will investigate identified as ‘the pity of war’. the significance for Owen of the years 1917 and beyond. Owen first arrived in France on 1st January 1917. Nearly a Owen’s most recent biographer Guy Cuthbertson begins, century later, on Saturday 28th January 2017, Shrewsbury followed by Dr Adrian Barlow, of Cambridge University, pupils will be at the heart of an intimate commemoration who will talk on Owen’s influence in the work of later of this baptism of fire for the Great War’s best-known writers. Army psychiatrist Dr Martin Deahl will also be poet. Organised in aid of The Friends of St Chad’s, the day detailing the contemporary struggle to treat post-traumatic will be an opportunity to explore how a momentous year stress disorder, as shellshock is now known. In the still shapes our culture today. It was the year the 23-year- evening, St Chad’s plays host to an evening recital of old subaltern encountered his first bitter taste of trench words and chamber music that celebrates the works of warfare, his withdrawal from the front after suffering Owen and other poets, given by pupils of the School. shellshock, and, as he convalesced in hospital alongside At the centre of the programme will be new settings of his Sassoon, the creative surge that resulted in poems such as poetry by Salopian student composers. Dan Powell (Ch) ‘Anthem for Doomed Youth’ and others which have since is one of them. “The poem I chose to set to song is ‘The made him a household name. Described in letters home Letter’,” he says. “The story is told through the language as his ‘Purgatorio’, 1917 was the year saw Owen inscribe of the letter itself, as it is written, which I put to a voice an authentic voice of witness into the poetic masterpieces singing in a legato style, in order to convey the sadness and feeling behind the words. The other side is the speech of the trenches, which are symbolised by brackets in the poem, which I felt should be spoken by a second person to convey the way in which soldiers lied in their letters to make their loved ones feel better. It is such a powerful and emotional story.” Helen McPhail welcomes the School’s involvement in the celebrations of Owen’s achievement. “This was the crucial period in Owen’s short life, when he found his true voice and spoke in ways and words that resonate as a poet of the front line and of humanity,” she says. “In that short time he saw action and suffered profoundly from shell- shock; and in his recovery joined the small group of poets of that war whose work is still read, loved and studied, as both literature and reportage. Without this experience, to quote one of his best-known biographers, ‘some of the finest war poems in the English language might never have been written’.”

Baptism of Fire: Wilfred Owen’s War in 1917. Tickets available by post from St Chad’s Office, 1 St Chad’s Terrace Shrewsbury SY1 1JX, or on the door. Cheques should be made payable to: The Friends of St Chad’s Shrewsbury. Also available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/stchadsshrewsbury (box office: 0333 666 3366) although a booking fee applies.

James Fraser-Andrews 30 SCHOOL NEWS

Old Salopians in World War I

As part of this year’s Service of Remembrance for the Third, Fourth and Fifth Forms, which was held on Remembrance Sunday in the Alington Hall before the whole school Act of Remembrance at the Sidney Memorial, the photos on these pages were displayed as a representative from each House read the accompanying description.

The photo shows the Day Boys team leg and shoulder badly damaged”. in 1911. I left school in 1912 and went Unfortunately the wounds didn’t heal to Cambridge, but when war started and I died on 12th November 1918, I joined the Rifle Brigade – I decided the day after the end of the war was to leave Cambridge before I got my declared. I was 19. My parents gave degree. When I got to the front I money for the school boathouse to be discovered Sergeant Philip Heacock built – my name is still on it - and my Baynes, from School House, and when sister’s great-grandson is now in the we realised our common background Upper Sixth in Oldham’s. we often went out on patrol together. I remember one night we dived on to our faces in the mud when German flares went up, howling with laughter at what our friends at school would think Churchill’s Hall of us if they saw us like that! I wrote I am Private Norman Hammill and I to school saying we’d both be back to see them after the war. Actually, I was was in Churchill’s. I was in the 1st XI awarded the Military Cross for coolness football for two years and I left school and gallantry in the face of an attack in in 1899. Initially I became a farmer force by Germans, but died three days in British Columbia, but when war later – Baynes died the same day in the broke out I enlisted with the Victoria same action. Little Lloyd-y in the photo Fusiliers, and was sent to the front in Ridgemount also got the MC, but he survived the April 1915. I was ordered straight up to I am Private Cyril Adolphus Stuart and war. The Salopian wrote about me after the trenches. I was killed by shrapnel I was a Praepostor in Ridgemount. I was killed: it called me fearless and I am in the back row on the far left in on the afternoon of Tuesday 18th May very resourceful, one of the cheeriest – I’d been there less than three weeks. the photo. I really enjoyed running; of Old Salopians. I died in Belgium, 6th I won 48 cups during my time at One of the corporals wrote about me: July 1915. I was 22. he said I was a splendid soldier, keen school, became Senior Whip and and always ready for hard work. I was ‘killed’ in the chief Cross Country race 25 when I died. against Aldershot. I left in 1914 for medical college, but when war started about 50 of us Salopians all decided to join up in the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry – we all marched across the site from the school gates to the barracks in Port Hill to join up. When I died another Salopian wrote about me; he said I was a man to be admired very much, because I was was one of those few people who can be an important person and still be decent and nice to everyone great or small. I died of wounds in France in August 1915. I was 20

Moser’s Hall Oldham’s Hall I am Lieutenant John Edwin Pugh, and I am Captain Frank Shirley Nalder. I was in Moser’s. I rowed in the 1st VIII, I was good friends with Cyril Stuart. Initially I was in School House, but and left school in 1916; I went straight Day Boys when JB Oldham opened his new to Hendon and trained to become an House, he needed a Head of House I am Second Lieutenant Bernard aviator in the Royal Air Force. I couldn’t for his first year, and asked me, so I Gibbs and I was in Day Boys. I’m on wait to get to France, and eventually transferred across. I was also Choregus the left in this photo. They called me flew in to combat. However I was in the Chapel Choir. I left in 1914. I had the greatest gymnast of my time – I shot down near Charleroi. I wrote to secured a place at Oxford so that when Captained the Gym team and we won my friends at school, saying “I am still the war was over I could continue my the Public Schools Gymnastic Contests. alive but one lung pierced, also right studies, and I also joined the King’s SCHOOL NEWS 31

Shropshire Light Infantry. After training Severn Hill I was sent to Salonika in Greece. I am Second Lieutenant John Basil However I caught malaria and had to Palling Simms and I was in Chance’s come back for 18 months, but then returned to Greece in June 1918, where which is now Severn Hill. I am in the I was killed in action in September that middle in the photo – this was on year. I was 23. In this postors’ photo Field Day in 1913. I left in 1916 and I from which this picture is taken, of the began service in the Northumberland 14 of us, 2 got the MC, and there were Fusiliers and was sent to France. 7 who died. However after a short leave in May, 1918, I joined the RAF as an observer, intending to get my ‘wings’ as a pilot as soon as possible. But I was shot Rigg’s Hall down by five enemy scouts above I am Lieutenant William Stewart France in June 1918. I was 19. Mitchell Ruxton and I was in Rigg’s. I am the one in the middle of this photo. I used to really look up to Bernard Gibbs when he was captain of Gymnasium, and I was proud to get the same position in 1914. I left in 1915 and went to Sandhurst before joining the Border Regiment, and was sent to France within a few months. I was soon wounded and had to come back to recover, and then I went out again, in January 1917. I won the MC in September 1917, but they finally got me in April 1918. I was 21.

Ingram’s Hall I am Second Lieutenant William Quintus Newsom Richardson. I loved being in Ingram’s but I couldn’t wait to join the Royal Flying Corps. I left school in 1917 and quickly obtained my commission as an Officer. A few weeks later I was killed in an accident whilst on a practice flight in the United Kingdom. I was 19.

School House I am Private Wilfrid George Vint and I am the cox of the crew in the photo, taken in 1900. Actually I got a coxing record by steering the 1st VIII to victory against Bedford, the only rivals in existence in those days, in five consecutive years. I was in School House and got a place to Oxford where I continued coxing for my college – Merton bumped up six times. After Oxford I became a solicitor with the Great Northern Railway Company and joined my father’s firm in Bradford in 1912. But then I enlisted in the Duke of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment at the start of war, and was killed in action in France in December 1916. I was 31.

Members of Staff I am Captain Evelyn Herbert Lightfoot Southwell, and I was a Classics teacher. I was educated at Eton and Oxford and took a first, and got two blues in the Boat Race. I was appointed to teach at Shrewsbury by Headmaster Alington, and to coach the First VIII. I volunteered for service in the Rifle Brigade and went to France; I was in the trenches for almost two years, and many of the letters I wrote have been published, although that is not why I wrote them, of course! I frequently wrote to my good friend Malcolm White, another teacher, although tragically he was killed earlier this year on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Six other Old Salopians were killed that day too. On one day during the Battle of the Somme, in September 1916, I was at the front of an advancing group from the battalion and we took cover in a shell hole, but a sniper got me and that was that. 32 SCHOOL NEWS

CCF

Pringle Trophy The two-day competition is held each year at the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre in Lympstone, Devon and aims to bring together all the Royal Marine Detachments in the country. It is a gruelling competition: the teams are treated as if they are in their 28th week of recruit training. Having won the Pringle Trophy last year, Shrewsbury’s young squad (which included four Fifth Formers) were determined to do their utmost to the defend their title and put in intensive hours of additional training during the weeks leading up to the competition. After a difficult start in the first stance, they bounced back to win the Observation and Camouflaged and Concealment stances. By the end of day 1, they were in second place overall and knew they had to pull out a huge score to be in with a chance of coming first. The squad, led by Will Hayward (R), did well in Drill the next day and won the Endurance Course by a clear minute. But it wasn’t quite enough to beat King’s College Taunton, and the squad finished as very commendable runners- up by 40 points out of 1100.

Cadet Military Skills Competition

Sgt Jack Lock (I UVI) reports: ‘The competition began well: we were one of only two teams not to drop a single point in their initial Inspection. Over the course of the first morning, we went from stand to stand with good performances overall. We had particular success in the first aid scenario in which the section “set the bar for the day”, the navigation stand in which we broke the record of points scored, and the observation stand. After a brief lunch, we moved on to the toughest and most physically demanding stands. Despite a slightly less successful TIBUA (training in built up areas) scenario, we were praised for our “quickest time and best coordination” in the casualty extraction and came one point away from first in the section in defence stand. This was a great effort for a stand added at the last minute that Shrewsbury seemingly alone had not trained for. After our second night in a bunker, Sunday brought on the L-R: Sgt Jack Lock, Cpl Dan Powell (Ch UVI), Cpl Rory McKirdy (PH UVI), March and Shoot element of the competition: a gruelling Cpl Harry Russell (O UVI), LCpl Chad Usher (S V), LCpl Tim Lovick (Ch speed march followed immediately by a 25m snap shoot. V), LCpl Eric Myint-Maung (Ch V), LCpl Arthur Gell (Rt V) and Cdt Pran Poshyanonda (S V) We unknowingly set the fastest time of the day by a “substantial amount” and performed well in the following DCCT shoot and observation lane. Immediately after this The weekend following the Pringle Trophy, it was the turn was a quick brunch and the final parade, in which it was of the School’s CCF Army section to show what they were announced that we had come second in the Skills Stands and made of, as they competed against more than 20 teams in had won the March and Shoot. We had also won enough the Cadet Military Skills Competition, held over three days at points to win the competition overall – the first time a team Swynnerton Camp near Stafford. from Shrewsbury has ever done so.’ SCHOOL NEWS 33

CCF Summer Camp This year’s CCF Summer Camp was blessed with sunshine and dry weather. An action-packed week of training and activities ended with the Shrewsbury contingent winning Best Shot and Fastest Team on the Gun Run, coming second in the Tug Of War (despite the lack of burly Sixth Formers compared with other teams) and, most importantly, winning Best Contingent overall.

Gliding Camp

The Summer Gliding Camp at the through the week, as illustrated by I should add!) for what would be Midlands Gliding Club on the Long Tom’s account: my sixth solo flight and my first in a Mynd, open to members of the RAF, ‘Having gone solo in October, but single seater. The take-off was rather was also a resounding success. deprived of flying since due to poor lively as it took me a while to get Three aspiring Fourth Form aviators weather and School commitments, to grips with the lighter and more (Ali Davies, Ben Holehouse and I came to the Camp with two aims: responsive aircraft but soon I was Jack Li) were joined by seasoned to re-solo and to convert to one of looking down on the airfield from gliders from the Fifth Form and the Club’s single-seat gliders. a little over 1000ft, increasing to Upper Sixth (Tom Brennan and Mil Monday and Tuesday primarily 1500ft as I found a thermal. Minutes Luangamornlert, Ed Jones and Alfie consisted of blowing away the of peaceful soaring passed, but Yeoward). cobwebs and polishing up on my eventually I felt it was time to return Ed, having just left school, now has flying. Wednesday morning brought to Earth. After an excellent landing, a regular place on the duty rota for emergency situations to practise winch-launching gliders at the Club. dealing with and by lunchtime that which all pilots will claim if nobody He stayed on after the Camp to day Mr Fowler was happy to allow saw it, I was surprised to find I winch for a high-profile competition. me to fly the two-seater alone. Other had been aloft for over 30 minutes, Alfie will be continuing his gliding than having to quickly reconsider unintentionally completing one of training during his gap year, with a where I would land due to an errant the requirements for my Bronze view to achieving his Bronze Award Land Rover, all went smoothly. Award! It was a fantastic flight by the end of the summer. I soon found myself waiting at the and will stick with me as the most All pilots made excellent progress launch point (not without nerves, memorable moment of the Camp.’

Mil Luangamornlert inspecting his glider Alfie Yeoward about to fly solo 34 SCHOOL NEWS

Rovers Expedition: Land, Sea and Skye The seed of an idea for the first summer expedition of the newly relaunched Rovers – an expedition to the Isle of Skye combining walking, sailing and mountain biking – was first mooted a couple of years ago. Having gradually taken shape through a series of extensive meetings, research and bookings, it became a glorious reality in July.

Speed, bonnie boat… jenny did not teach the crew as much were our fault!) necessitated taking the Seven pupils joined three members of as the skipper would have wished. turbulent Corryvrechan under jenny staff to sail from Largs, near Glasgow, However, the stunning scenery as they alone before ferry-gliding to Crinan to to Skye. Experiencing every kind of sailed past the Mull of Kintyre, the pick up a visitor’s mooring under sail. Scottish weather en route except snow Sound of Islay, Iona, Fingal’s Cave and Once repaired, the journey continued or sleet failed to dampen spirits, and on to Loch Moidart and Portree more through the Crinan Canal (of necessity), a combination of endless cups of tea, than made up for that. on via the hauntingly beautiful Kyles of ample wholesome meals and strong The return trip via Sandaig Bay (of Bute in the light misty rain (gusting to personalities who gelled very well into ‘Ring of Bright Water’ fame) with a force 6) back to Largs. 410 miles and a single crew meant that it was a great different crew and a small diversion to ten days had flown past, seemingly experience for everyone involved. see the puffins on Treshinsh Islands effortlessly. Well done to all the crew, The 48-foot boat was tautly maintained was equally wonderful, until a nearly and thanks to Jonathan Walton for his (well, up to a point: read on), though simultaneous breakage of the main bonhomie and joint-leadership. roller furling-in the main as well as the track and an engine failure (neither SCHOOL NEWS 35

Walking striking Black Cuillins and skirted the hosting a cake sale that day! Refreshed edge of the more rounded Red Cuillins.’ somewhat, we climbed the road up The walkers did not want to be the glen and took the trail past Loch out-done on the weather front and Clair and Loch Coulin into a barren experienced a vast amount of rain Mountain Biking and remote place. At another bothy we and mist throughout their five days of The bikes travelled overland to Skye chose the more challenging option and walking. The weather could not bring on a trailer and awaited their riders climbed/walked upwards to a point their spirits down, however, and they at the bunkhouse, some of whom where we took on as much energy gel were lifted each day by completing a arrived by sea from Largs, while others as we could stomach and descended classic Skye walk. The Old Man of Storr had already been part of the group the roughest trail yet – a fitting finale to provided a spooky and misty back- who had been exploring the island this 50km absolute classic. drop for a day of micro-navigation. on foot through rain and Scotch mist. Each day provided different scenery One more travelled up independently, Special thanks must go to everyone and fantastic learning opportunities for arriving a day before the first ride. involved in the planning and running of this trip: Matt Craig (Gateway Outdoors) all, staff included. A small snippet from One of the five spectacular days’ riding for providing extensive knowledge of Tom Jackson’s diary gives the flavour: is described by Morton Moss. the area, planning and leading walks, ‘Having had a previous day of ‘so ‘Day 4, the big one: Our destination supporting on the Mountain Biking close, yet so far’, by falling just short was the Torridon Mountains – and providing the group with endless of the great summit that overlooked legendary terrain spoken about in one-liners and Shropshire humour; Talisker Bay, we woke up to an air of hushed tones amongst the mountain Johnathon Walton for invaluable excitement and mild anxiety; sensations bike cognoscenti. Weather conditions knowledge of sailing routes, fettling that were also accompanied by a that day were perfect. Starting with and preparing the boat, attending all lingering smell of wet, damp clothes a warm-up spin along the road on the planning meetings and spending and ‘sweet’ smelling socks. We then the Lochcarron side, we turned north many hours on board ‘skippering’ walked up through damp, humid air to and headed upwards past a bothy, and providing tuition to students; one of Mark’s delightful breakfasts. We higher and higher, sometimes riding, Mark Johnson for the spectacular food enjoyed a cooked selection that fuelled sometimes carrying our bikes. An hour throughout the expedition; Col. David, us for the coming adventures. later we were lying on the ground, Mr Kaye and Mr Lapage for all their Equipping ourselves with gaiters and recovering at the head of the pass effort and ideas during the planning waterproofs and seizing plentiful at Bealach na Lice. Things turned stage and for taking time to lead the supplies of sandwiches, biscuits and from a suffer-fest to the sublime. A different elements of the trips. mars bars, we climbed into the minibus narrow, flowing trail led past Loch an 2017 sees the return of the Rovers and prepared to embark. After a set Eoin out onto a plateau of undulating Junior Expedition to North Wales and of final checks and grabbing those bedrock with the most fantastic views a 12-day multi-activity expedition to essential final supplies, we departed across to vast flanks of Liathach. The the French Pyrenees. Trips are open our scenic bunkhouse just outside trail descended along boulder-strewn to members and non-members. The Portnalong. We headed along to the gullies; technical, yet very satisfying Rovers have also moved into the end of Carbost Bay and began our for the downhill specialists among us. 21st Century and can be followed on journey inland winding down towards At the bottom: bad luck - a bee had Twitter (shrewsrovers@). Sligachan, which has now been somehow managed to fly into Morton’s officially renamed by the Rovers as mouth and sting his tongue! Good ‘Slicy Chicken’. We caught sight of the luck - the village hall in Torridon was Will Reynolds 36 SCHOOL NEWS

Ingram’s Hall fundraise for Plan UK

In recent years the gentlemen of Ingram’s Hall have supported the education of a boy from a poor region in northern Brazil via the charity Plan UK. Inspired to participate actively, give more and in turn learn from the experience, some committed Ingramites and their Housemaster embarked on a year of fundraising activities.

he fundraising effort started with in an area where children live in Tfilm nights, cake sales, a charity car extreme conditions. With a spirit of wash, the sale of old football boots and adventure and commitment to fundraise the chance to purchase canvas prints for a worthy cause, Cosmo Barratt during a photo exhibition. However, and Thomas Scott Bell undertook a this was merely the warm-up for the sponsored sky dive in September. main events! I proposed to take on the Team Ingram’s raised over £7,200 challenge of a Latin American trek in for the charity, funds that make a summer 2016 and in turn invited the genuine difference to projects that gentlemen of Ingram’s Hall to initiate tackle child poverty. Plan UK is part of their own ambitious charity challenges. Plan International, one of the world’s ensures free and equal access for girls leading global children’s charities and boys to education, including during working on safe education, disaster emergencies. relief and girls’ rights across Asia, Africa and Latin America. The year of Laura Coffin, Community Fundraising fundraising has been an exceptional Assistant for Plan International UK way for pupils to engage with these says: “Mr Wright and his students issues. Education really is the most at Shrewsbury School have made a influential factor in determining phenomenal effort to support Plan children’s life opportunities, it is the key International UK. Their support will to helping communities to evolve, and provide invaluable assistance to is quite often a child’s only way out of some of the world’s poorest children. poverty. Last year, Plan International Thank you to all at Ingram’s Hall, James Fearn, Jack Lock, Henry Lai UK supported 107,072 girls and 85,360 and congratulations on your fantastic and Guy Nicholson set an impressive boys with primary school scholarships achievements.” precedent for their Housemaster, taking and provided educational supplies to On behalf of the Ingram’s fundraising on the gruelling Three Peaks challenge 44,020 pre-school centres and 50,301 team we would like to offer sincere in May half term, when they climbed primary schools. The charity actively gratitude to all friends and families who Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon targets children who have never have offered sponsorship. in 24 hours. Then in July, I trekked and been to school or who have dropped camped in the Peruvian Andes while out, offering them the chance of an visiting remote school communities education. Plan International UK Mike Wright SCHOOL NEWS 37

Cricket

TOTAL SCHOOL MATCHES PLAYED 117 WON 86 LOST 28 DREW 2 TIED 1

This was not our most successful year but there were still a great number of highlights and performances that kept us bobbing along at the top of the schools’ cricket pyramid. Our senior playing record stands up well when measured against our rival schools, and there were many dominant performances, great wins and some great runs of form. Unfortunately, at the business end of the season, when we had three goals in our sights (HMC T20, Silk Trophy and U17s’ National Cup) the 1st XI season became a little disjointed and ultimately suffered due to poor availability. Nevertheless, what became very apparent through the summer was the skill and collective nature of the U17 group, made up of players from every year group, as they progressed to the final of the U17s’ Cup. Our junior teams were very consistent and they gained the successes that our seniors had worked so hard for. The unbeaten U14s won the County Cup and qualified for the Lord’s Taverners’ next season, while the U15s won the Junior Silk, overcoming Marlborough, Uppingham and Eton College. The U15 Girls won the U15 County Cup and were losing quarter-finalists (to the eventual winners) in the School Sports Magazine U15s’ Tournament. The growing number of girls opting into cricket has very quickly produced some excellent results and as we look forward to three full years of girls (approximately 44 girls) playing cricket in 2017, I have no doubt that they will only add to the School’s growing reputation and continue to take advantage of our excellent facilities and coaching. Unbeaten teams in 2016 were 3rd XI, U15B, U14A and U14 Girls.

The full report, including statistics, can be found at www.shrewsbury.org.uk/news/cricket-reports

Shrewsbury School 1st XI & U17 XI ALL MATCHES Played: 32 Won: 22 Lost: 8 Tied: 1 Drawn: 1 Abandoned: 7 50/40 over Matches Played: 19 Won: 11 Lost: 6 Tied: 1 Drawn: 1 Abandoned: 6 T20 Matches Played: 7 Won: 6 Lost: 1 Abandoned: 1 U17 Cup Played: 5 Won: 4 Lost: 1

Pre-Season Festival (Shrewsbury) It rained and rained, and rained some more, so we called it off.

16th April Shrewsbury v Malvern College (HOME) MATCH CANCELLED

17th April Shrewsbury v Warwickshire Cricket Board (HOME) WON by 9 wickets Warwickshire CB 90 all out (D. Lloyd 5 for 20, T. Brunskill 2 for 2) Shrewsbury School 92 for 1 (G. Hargrave 24no, G. Newton 38)

20th April Shrewsbury v Shropshire CB Development XI (HOME) WON by 52 runs Shrewsbury School 210 for 6 (H. Adair 106no) Shropshire Dev XI 158 for 7 (D. Lloyd 2 for 22)

23rd April Shrewsbury v Sedbergh (AWAY) WON by 6 wickets Sedbergh 197 all out Shrewsbury 200 for 4 (G. Newton 49, H. Adair 64no)

24th April Shrewsbury v M.C.C (HOME) LOST by 44 runs M.C.C. 255 for 8 (D. Lloyd 3 for 28) Shrewsbury School 211 all out

27th April Shrewsbury v Free Foresters (HOME) LOST by 6 wickets Shrewsbury School 182 for 4 (G. Newton 78no) Free Foresters 183 for 4

30th April Bromsgrove v Shrewsbury (HOME) LOST by 7 wickets Shrewsbury School 143 all out (D. Lloyd 43) Bromsgrove 147 for 3

4th May Shrewsbury v Wrekin College (AWAY) WON by 8 wickets Wrekin College 139 all out (D. Lloyd 4 for 14, G. Panayi 2 for 16, P. Jacob 2 for 25) Shrewsbury School 142 for 2 (G. Garrett 58, H. Adair 54no)

7th May Shrewsbury v Repton School (HOME) WON by 4 wickets Repton School 173 all out (C. Cooke 4 for 38) Shrewsbury School 174 for 6 (G. Panayi 3 for 28, G. Newton 3 for 36) 38 SCHOOL NEWS

14th May Shrewsbury v Sedbergh (HOME) WON by 5 wickets Sedbergh 183 all out (G. Panayi 3 for 28, G. Newton 3 for 36) Shrewsbury 184 for 5 (J. Crawley 60no, D. Humes 37no)

18th May Shrewsbury v Birkenhead School (HOME) MATCH ABANDONED Birkenhead School 138 for 7 (G. Garrett 4 for 18, G. Newton 3 for 16) Shrewsbury School 30 for 0

25th May Shrewsbury School v Myerscough Old Trafford WON by 3 wickets Myerscough Old Trafford 106 all out (J. Malyon 2 for 12) Shrewsbury School 112 for 7 (T. Breese 26no)

27th May Shrewsbury School v Shrewsbury Saracens (HOME) WON by 28 runs Shrewsbury School 207 for 9 (H. Adair 65, J. Crawley 64) Shrewsbury Saracens 179 all out (C. Cooke 3 for 24)

11th June Shrewsbury v Malvern College (AWAY) MATCH TIED Malvern College 135 for 4 Shrewsbury School 135 for 9

18th June Shrewsbury v Manchester Grammar School (HOME) WON by 174 runs Shrewsbury School 221 for 3 (J. Crawley 54no, G. Panayi 95no) Manchester Grammar School 47 all out (G. Garrett 4 for 11, D. Lloyd 5 for 7)

25th June Shrewsbury v Greys High, Port Elizabeth, South Africa (HOME) LOST by 6 wickets Shrewsbury School 224 for 7 (G. Newton 47, J. Crawley 46) Greys High School 226 for 4

29th & 30th June Shrewsbury v Uppingham School (AWAY) MATCH CANCELLED

SILK TROPHY

4th July Shrewsbury School v Oundle (at ETON) LOST by 9 runs Oundle 170 all out (G. Newton 2 for 23, G. Garrett 2 for 11) Shrewsbury School 161 all out

5th July Shrewsbury School v St Albans, Pretoria, South Africa (at ETON) WON by 4 wickets St Albans 115 all out (D. Lloyd 3 for 24) Shrewsbury School 119 for 6

6th July Shrewsbury School v Eton College (at ETON) LOST by 155 runs Eton College 314 for 7 (P. Jacob 3 for 49) Shrewsbury School 159 all out (G. Hargrave 46)

HMC T20

8th May Shrewsbury School v Wolverhampton Grammar School (HOME) WON by 62 runs Shrewsbury School 138 for 4 Wolverhampton Grammar School 76 for 6 (D. Lloyd 4 for 14)

8th May Shrewsbury School v Ellesmere College (HOME) WON by 55 runs Shrewsbury School 117 for 8 (G. Garrett 20no) Ellesmere College 62 for 8

18th May Shrewsbury School v Bablake School (HOME) WON by 116 runs Shrewsbury 187 for 3 (H. Adair 103no) Bablake 71 all out (D. Lloyd 2 for 11, G. Panayi 2 for 6, T. Brunskill 3 for 9)

10th June Shrewsbury School v Worcester RGS (HOME) WON by 5 wickets Worcester RGS 92 for 6 (D. Lloyd 3 for 10) Shrewsbury School 93 for 3 (D. Humes 36no)

26th June Shrewsbury School v Felsted (HOME) LOST BY 8 wickets Shrewsbury School 116 for 9 (G. Panayi 33) Felsted 117 for 2 SCHOOL NEWS 39

T20

17th April Shrewsbury v Warwickshire CB XI T20 (HOME) WON by 30 runs Shrewsbury School 120 for 5 (D. Lloyd 64) Warwickshire CB 90 all out (C. Cooke 2 for 24, P. Jacob 2 for 17, T. Brunskill 2 for 8, C. Byrne 2 for 6)

8th June Shrewsbury School v Myerscough Preston T20 (HOME) WON by 7 wickets Myerscough Preston 92 for 9 (C. Cooke 3 for 10, G. Garrett 2 for 21) Shrewsbury School 93 for 3 (D. Humes 36no)

U17 XI National Cup 1st Round Bye

2nd Round 12th May Shrewsbury School v Ellesmere College (AWAY) WON BY 3 wickets Ellesmere College 103 all out (P. Jacob 2 for 17, T. Brunskill 2 for 21 A. Garrett 2 for 14, P. Clark 4 for 21) Shrewsbury School 107 for 7

3rd Round 26th May Shrewsbury School v St Mary’s GS (HOME) WON BY 8 wickets Queen Mary’s 93 all out (A Garrett 4 for 19, P. Clark 2 for 7, P. Jacob 2 for 2) Shrewsbury School 94 for 2

Quarter Final 22nd June Shrewsbury School v Bromsgrove School (HOME) WON by 83 runs Shrewsbury 160 for 4 (G. Garrett 64, G. Newton 45) Bromsgrove 77 all out (G. Newton 3 for 15, P. Jacob 3 for 16)

Semi Final 2nd September Shrewsbury School v Sedbergh (AWAY) WON BY 8 wickets Sedbergh 113 all out (T. Brunskill 5 for 28, A. Garrett 3 for 16) Shrewsbury School 114 for 2 (G. Hargrave 61no)

Final 7th September Shrewsbury School v Millfield (Cumnor CC) LOST by 155 runs Millfield 228 for 7 (G. Newton 3 for 28) Shrewsbury School 138 all out

1st XI 2016 40 SCHOOL NEWS

1st XI Player Reports

George Panayi (Ch) (Captain) Early organisation has often meant his to this he also needs to develop his in the season, following some flat preparation has been found wanting. communication skills if he is to benefit performances, we discussed his role At his best he is a terrific opening himself and others around him. in the team, but from that point on bowler but we have not always George Hargrave (Rb) suffered from George grew into his role as Captain seen his best consistently enough. knee problems throughout the greater and led the team with growing Nevertheless, Charlie has played a part of our season and he was sorely confidence. He contributed well with strong hand in helping us achieve well missed. His quality batting was never both bat and ball and although we in recent years (two Silk Trophies) replaced and we struggled at the were all delighted that he signed and, if he were so inclined, he could top of the order until he made a late professional terms with Warwickshire continue to develop his skills at club reappearance in June. His excellent CCC in June, we also thought it was a level and beyond. innings in the U17 National semi-final cruel blow to him, his family and his Henry Newbould (Ch) has over the win over Sedbergh reminded us all of team mates, that he was denied the past two season played a number of 1st what we had missed. I hope that he right to see out his outstanding school XI matches and served the team well. can come through the winter unscathed career by playing in the last three His appetite and commitment can never and offer up some more delightful weeks of term. His unavailability hit be questioned but focus on technique innings next season as we seek, once our confidence and momentum hard. would be required to further improve again, to compete all the way through He has the best school record any his wicket keeping and batting. His the season until the finale at Oundle. player could wish for or achieve (3 work in the team during April and May Patrick Jacob (PH) had a fantastic Silk Trophies and two HMC T20 wins) was much appreciated and enjoyed by season as he developed greater and we are sure he will soon feature all involved. in Warwickshire’s 1st XI. I hope he consistency in his bowling. His stats Max Parsonage (S) showed glimpses continues to be a great ambassador for speak volumes for how he progressed of his true ability as a fine athletic the School. but he knows, as I do, that there is fielder, medium pace bowler and still much more to come. His fielding dangerous batsman. With better offered unorthodox reliability and availability he would surely have had a a great number of fine catches. real impact on our short game season. With some focused and thoughtful It was a great pity we did not see more preparation he could, and should, work of him last summer. harder at his batting this winter/Lent Tom Breese (PH) made a belated, in order to give the team more depth but very welcome, return to the team and security. He has a bright mind and after a long period of injury and good athletic ability; these qualities, unavailability. His physical strength and together with his appreciation of game mature characteristics greatly helped play, should help bring the team more the side in late June and early July, as success next season. the season drew to a close. His batting George Garrett (Ch) moved slowly and bowling qualities were useful in but steadily into form as he sought to a difficult period for the team, as was recover fully from a rather troubling his top quality aggressive fielding (a back injury. His bowling action, which constant feature of his school career). is smooth and solid, brought some He tried his best and gave us one or excellent returns this years but with two gems to savour. further strength and conditioning Harry Adair (Rt) proved his this winter I look forward, with potential during the early part of the real anticipation, to seeing George Dan Lloyd (PH) had the most summer with a number of exciting spearhead the bowling attack in 2017. outstanding season. He progressed and commanding innings. His early In addition, his responsible batting his batting to such a point that we departure to work with Northampton showed signs of expanding, as he trusted him, occasionally, to open CCC left the team’s batting more made some telling contributions the innings. His contribution to our exposed as the business end of the across all formats of the game. Hitting season was massive and he will be summer arrived. sixes would not be his stand-out sorely missed next year. His stats George Newton (SH) had a fantastic skill to date but after witnessing his speak volumes about his accurate and first season. As an opening batsman he development this season, I am sure tenacious bowling. During his two progressed and as a seamer he offered that it will be soon. years at Shrewsbury School he has not regular wickets. Clearly he has some Tom Brunskill (S) had a good season only helped us to maintain a very high very solid foundations upon which to and produced some fantastic spells profile but greatly added to the joy of build but will need to work hard during of bowling when conditions favoured our players. Never one to hold back, the winter to sharpen his technique him. As he seeks to progress, he will his enthusiasm and character will take and make both his batting and bowling need to spend the winter working on him a long way and ensure that he has more comprehensive. Next season will his bowling ‘drive’ and ‘length’ and a long and happy career. bring more pressure upon his strong thereby improve his control. He is Charlie Cooke (R) has, over the past shoulders as he seeks to increase undoubtedly the very best athlete in the three seasons, produced some excellent his bowling pace and develop his present squad and I look forward to and telling performances but his poor batting wagon wheel range. Further seeing him dominate as a fielder next SCHOOL NEWS 41 year, but more importantly as our lead show all us his true quality from time form, he never cemented his batting spin-bowler. His batting also promises to time. Greater consistency will come with the disciplined required at 1st XI much and, here again, some focused and after a season of rejuvenation I standard. His keeping is very good, out of season work and concentration am excited about his prospects next competitive and full of natural ability, will do much to make the squad more year. He has achieved much to date combining well with his batting skills. resilient. and with extra agility and flexibility, His bowling has promise too, as he Jamie Crawley (Rt) steadily increased Jamie will add a new dimension to his proved in the U17 final. He is as the pressure on his body as he sought game. A more dynamic model will also talented a player as we have seen in to gain the confidence he required, after further enhance his chances of travelling the team and I am sure, given better an injury-hit Fourth Form, to take a full the full length along the pathway to shot selection and a greater focus on tilt at batting in the most responsible professionalism. long-term delivery rather than short- positions in the team. Whilst his form Dan Humes (I) arrived in the 1st XI term impact, he will be our stand-out was not as he would have wished on the back of some excellent form batter in the next three seasons. throughout the school season, he did and whilst he offered hints of that Andy Barnard

2nd XI Played: 8 Won: 5 Drawn: 1 Lost: 2 The 2nd XI enjoyed a terrific season while Max Parsonage came back from Grammar School was as soft as any under the captaincy of Anthony Koch missing last season through injury, to I have seen for years, although this de Gooreynd, with five wins out of take 3 for 19 in the same game. certainly made for an interesting game. eight matches played. Unfortunately Following a draw against perennial We bowled well and restricted the several fixtures were victims of the competitors the XL Club, the 2nd home side to 94-9 from their 35 overs weather and another five matches XI then won their next two games with Joe Thevathasen picking up 4 could not be completed or even against Denstone (by six wickets) for 20 in seven overs. In response contested in some cases. As ever, the and Repton (by five wickets). Josh Shrewsbury were in trouble at 25 for exodus of players for exams made Malyon scored 65* against Denstone, 6 until George Pearce (36*) and Josh consistent selection impossible and, while a superlative century from Malyon (37*) steadied the innings and in all, 21 players represented the team. Max Parsonage (101*) won the game saw the team home. However it is worth mentioning that against Repton after Pat Jacob had In the final game, we welcomed a Dan Orchard and Will Street played picked up three wickets. Unfortunately strong Saracens team to Shrewsbury in every match, while Matt White, however, Ross Orchard, who had on the penultimate day of term. The Josh Malyon, George Pearce and Joe been our most effective bowler to this Saracens started well putting on 68 Thevathasen played in all but one point, picked up a back injury in the for the first wicket before slumping match. We were fortunate to have the Denstone game and was unable to to 113 for 6 and then recovering to services of Mr Neil Salvi to help with bowl again all season. 217 all out in 38 overs. Unfortunately the coaching and the quality of the A skeleton crew made the journey the 2nd XI lost wickets regularly and fielding definitely benefitted from this, to Sedbergh, who have been our couldn’t impose themselves on the with the boys looking sharp in the field toughest opponents in recent years. visitors, eventually collapsing, losing in every game. Unfortunately, our bowling weaknesses the last four wickets on 116. It was The season started strongly with were exposed and the home side a disappointing way to finish what convincing wins against the Grange managed to reach 240 in their 40 overs. had been an enjoyable and successful School 1st XI (by nine wickets) and Josh Malyon led the reply with 60, but season. However, with many Lower Millfield (by eight wickets). Stand out we were always behind the run rate Sixth pupils taking leading roles in performances early on included 78* and fell 64 runs short of the target. the team, there will be plenty of for Dan Humes to take the game away There was a prolonged hiatus before competition for places in the senior from Millfield, and a great innings of our next game, due to exeat and poor sides next year. 63* from Dan Orchard against Grange, weather, and the pitch at Manchester Matthew Barrett

U16A XI Played: 6 Won: 3 Lost: 3 A most enjoyable season with a hard- a memorable century against Wrekin, teams, especially our Indian tourists, working and able group of boys. and Naveen Hari and Matthew Clay, who struggled to play him. The team They played 6 matches (losing 2 to who all played key innings in tough fielded very well as a unit and there the weather) and won 3 and lost 3. situations. Jonah Greetham, Zack were some excellent run-outs and Lysander Adair, Jamie Crawley, Tom Nicholas and Henry Weekes all catches. Angus Moore proved to be a Brunskill and George Garrett all played worked very hard on their techniques very decent wicket-keeper who kept a full season in the 1st XI, so we did and made excellent progress. tidily and had some key scalps during not benefit from their experience. But Leading wicket-taker was Lucien the season. nonetheless, it gave others who had Whitworth with 9 in 4 games and It is hoped that this group of players previously been fringe A team players other bowlers who performed well will continue to train hard and enjoy in the U15s a chance to step up and were Rob Ford and Ed Stapleton, their cricket as a number of them show what they could do. The side was who bowled with pace and hostility should go on to play at a good level in well captained by Jordan Zaza who had at times. Naveen Hari bowled some the Sixth Form and beyond. a good season with the bat, averaging useful leg-spin and picked up 5 wickets 45. Other notable batting performances and Jack Humphreys’ left-arm seam came from Ed Stapleton, who scored proved a difficult proposition for some Will Hughes 42 SCHOOL NEWS

U15A XI Played: 21 Won: 17 Lost: 4

The 2016 season can only be described to be the same person, Dan Humes – Marcus Cope 17 at 9, and Arthur Garrett as an incredible transformation. Having to the 1st XI. In addition, appendicitis picked up 15 at 11. endured what can kindly be described was to deprive us of our replacement Whilst we recorded an impressive 17 as a “difficult” introduction to cricket captain and most consistent batsman, victories, we lost only 4 games over at Shrewsbury as an U14A team, Ludo Litchfield, for the latter part of the course of the season. Three of when they won only four matches all the season. Our Third Formers were, these were to very strong sides when year, there was an obvious need for as is always the case, only able to join we were not at full strength, and one improvement. Given that there are us when they were not representing contained plenty of lessons to be learnt! no shortcuts to success, we quickly their own age group; so, by and large, Of the 17 that we won, five or six were established as a group that commitment the squad was very similar to the very close, which was hugely pleasing. was required. The squad bought into previous year. The ability to come out on top in tight this ethos from the word go and did Whilst the playing record speaks for encounters is a habit, and one which not waver all year. Early morning itself, it does not do justice to the level this group worked hard to develop. strength and conditioning sessions of development shown by the vast We finished as T20 County Champions, were hugely beneficial, and while there majority of the squad. With the bat, eventually losing at the Midlands Finals were initial reservations, they became a our previously frail order transformed Day stage, one of the only occasions crucial part of our progression, bringing into one where contributions could where none of our batsmen stepped up discipline and mental toughness as well to the plate. as advances in flexibility, core strength, come from number 1 to 11. A special power, stamina, and injury prevention. mention for Toby Pegge and Felix The biggest success of the season was Throughout the course of the season, Kenyon Smith, who worked tirelessly in undoubtedly the team’s triumph at we suffered only one injury, keeping the indoor school, and were rewarded the end of season Junior Silk Trophy, the bowler in question out for two with crucial match-winning knocks at after three fine wins against Eton, days. You could not ask for a more the business end of the season. Ludo Marlborough, and Uppingham saw us powerful or convincing testimonial. Litchfield recorded 274 runs at an crowned as champions. Despite being average of almost 55, Dan Humes hit shorn once again of our two stars in One-to-one coaching sessions during 367 runs with a strike rate of 137, while Dan Humes and Ludo Litchfield, and lunchtimes were attended almost daily Archie Turner led the run scoring charts facing two sides who had not tasted from October, as well as twice-weekly with 468 at 36. Eleven players recorded defeat all season, we produced some batting workshops (the side’s Achilles a batting average in double figures, truly excellent cricket and were worthy heel during the previous campaign). winners of the prestigious tournament. We were able to supplement the squad which underlines the importance of our Two pieces of silverware were just with several new faces from the Third pre-season batting sessions. reward for the squad’s exertions Form, with the three most prominent With the ball, Dan Davies was ever over the year. To the class of 2016: being Archie Turner, Peter Clark and present in spearheading our attack, congratulations. You truly did your best. Arthur Garrett. This was offset by the finishing as the leading wicket-taker loss of our captain, wicket-keeper and with 21 victims at an average of 17 best batsman – all of whom happened apiece. Peter Clark took 18 at 11, Adam Shantry

U15 Junior Silk Trophy Winners 2016 SCHOOL NEWS 43

U14A XI Played: 11 Won: 10 Lost: 0 Abandoned: 1

The Under 14A squad enjoyed strong batting unit out for 94. We then Our batting was largely dominated by a cricket season where the main proceeded to knock them off for the four players. Jack Goodall, after a slow emphasis was placed on player and loss of 1 wicket. This result was the start, batted beautifully as the season team development. The boys benefited springboard for the season and gave progressed. He scored two 50s during from a winter in the nets with our the boys belief in what we were trying the season and both of these came in resident cricket professionals Paul to achieve as a team. the County Cup. His 60 not out and 59 Pridgeon and Adam Shantry and We had a team of very good all- against Adams in the final allowed us Cricket Sports Graduate Gwen Davies. rounders and our bowling was to post winning totals. Luke Bourne- This was invaluable in identifying Arton topped the averages with an potential players early as well as particularly impressive. Almost every player bowled at some stage of the impressive average of 50. His 200 runs getting the boys into the groove ready came in 184 balls. Both Peter and for the start of the season. We played season. Peter Clark took 13 wickets at an average of 7.62, Harry Sutherland Arthur made solid contributions with 11 matches winning 10; the only game the bat. They scored nearly 400 runs lost was a very close 1-wicket defeat took 11 at 11.64 and Arthur Garrett between them and gave us a real solid to Denstone College, when three of took 9 at an average of 10.22. In look to our top three. our starting XI were playing up in the particular, the two left-armers, Clark U17 team. and Garrett, bowled beautifully in The group were a pleasure to work with all season. They turned up for The boys played particularly well tandem all season and were rewarded seasons with an enthusiasm and a in the Shropshire County Cup, and with promotion to both the U15 desire to learn and improve. I am sure this win puts them into the Lord’s and U17 teams, where they both Taverners competition next year. performed with a level of maturity. if they apply this same philosophy next Possibly the most impressive victory These two allowed us to control year under the experienced guidance was against an extremely strong games, and their economy rates of of Paul Pigeon, they will continue to Millfield side. It was a good toss to 2.61 and 2.36 restricted teams all flourish. win and we bowled beautifully a very season in the middle overs. Steve Wilderspin

Shrewsbury School U15 Girls XI Played: 6 Won: 4 Lost: 2

“Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work hard.” A very able Fourth Form, with lots of drive and determination This is one of my favourite quotes, and it certainly describes to improve in all aspects of cricket, made it a pleasure to the girls’ cricket teams this season. From squad lunchtime coach this year group. They were also a great influence on sessions to 4:1s, 3:1s, 2:1s and 1:1s, plus early morning the Third Form, who also worked tirelessly alongside these strength and conditioning sessions led by Lauren Walker, the older girls. Due to some fantastic enthusiasm and hard graft, girls worked non-stop from January until July. some of the Third Form girls were rewarded by being invited The 2016 season started early, with an indoor competition in to play up a year. Issy Wong, Lara Ockleston, Amelie Davies February. This was a chance for the girls to show what they and Georgia Kannreuther were consistent members of the had learnt and how much they had developed in a month, U15 squad and provided great strength to our starting XI. before we started competing outside. We enjoyed some Additional appearances from the Third Form included Laura early success by getting through the qualifiers fairly easily Elliott, Annabel Naylor and Mollie Matthews. at Mary Webb School. The girls managed to progress to the Given that the majority of the girls were beginners at the start regional finals, where we came up against Moreton Hall. of the Lent Term, an impressive four games won out of six Unfortunately, the girls came off second best, narrowly losing marks this as a great ‘stepping stone’ season. Emma Graham by 13 runs. After beating Idsall and Bridgnorth Endowed in had a fantastic season, scoring 71 runs in just 4 innings and the last two games, the girls finished an un-deserved third. taking 11 wickets. The most notable performance from Emma Although the girls were understandably disappointed, they was managing to drag us across the line in a very tense game played some great cricket and showed what they were really against Moreton Hall in the School Sports Magazine Cup. capable of. Moreton had knocked us out the previous year, so coming Aggression isn’t a strong suit for most girls, especially at out of a stressful situation and digging in to get us the victory this age, therefore countless hours were spent on being showed some real character, and there was no doubt about more attacking with the bat. Although there is still room who should be awarded player of the season. Issy Wong for improvement in this area, the difference compared with managed to find some form towards the business end of the how they were in January is huge. A particular mention season, scoring a very organised 68 not out against Malvern should go to Katie Oswald, as her transformation with the and taking some crucial wickets to end on 8 for the season. bat is incredible and I can’t wait to see what the next season Beating Moreton Hall in the School Sport Magazine Cup holds for her. The team had strong athletic individuals meant that Shrewsbury School made history by achieving a which meant the girls picked up new ideas and techniques quarter-final position. Unfortunately, we came off second best very quickly. against Horizon Community College in another tense finish. 44 SCHOOL NEWS

It has to be said that the girls’ work ethic and determination It was a great triumph for the girls to come away from the throughout the season was second to none and they ‘Chance to Compete’ Shropshire Festival as champions, thoroughly deserved to go on and win the competition. picking up our only silverware of the season, this time Personally, the biggest success of the season was watching beating Moreton Hall and Bridgnorth Endowed quite how much the girls developed both as cricketers and as a comfortably; yet again a testament to how far they had all team. They really were a tight-knit unit, with disappointments come as a group. only driving them on further. Gwen Davies

Shropshire U15 County Winners

U14 Girls XI Played: 4 Won: 4

The U14s enjoyed an unbeaten season, being captain by taking the top spot of for Shropshire County trials. This is a beating Moreton Hall twice, Prestfelde the batting averages, being leading run- credit to all the hard work the girls put and Packwood. This was an incredible scorer with a total of 42 runs. into their training that started back in achievement for these girls as for all The girls have been recognised for January. four games they were without their star all their hard work. Issy Wong has The 2016 season was a ‘stepping stone’ players, which called for inexperienced been selected for the Loughborough for the girls and a taste of what is to individuals to step up. They certainly come. It has shown that with hard proved they were worthy. Laura Elliott Lightning Development Squad and work, determination and true grit the enjoyed some success with the bat invited to the England Women girls could go far. I am already looking and ball, scoring 30 runs and taking 5 Development Fast Bowlers Camp. wickets in 3 games. Mollie Matthews Sophia Breese, Amelie Davies, forward to the 2017 season, with the took on the role of captaincy while Emma Graham, Lizzie Ware, Katie vast amount of potential and talent Issy Wong was away representing the Oswald, Lara Ockleston and Georgia already on show. U15s. Mollie thrived on the role of Kannreuther have been nominated Gwen Davies SCHOOL NEWS 45

RSSBC

J16s racing at the Shrewsbury Regatta Preparation for the Summer racing season got underway over the Easter holidays with three training camps at different venues. On 31st March, 48 Seniors and J16s arrived at the stunning Lac du Causse near Brive, France for a week-long rowing camp on the 2000m rowing course. It provided the ideal location to get valuable mileage covered on the multi-lane course in preparation for the Summer Regattas. There was a great camaraderie among the touring party, which was a tremendous credit to the boys and girls who worked hard on and off the water with an excellent team ethic.

wenty-one Fourth Formers The first regatta of the season saw five T embarked on their first Easter crews from the J15 and J16 squads Training Camp at Pangbourne College enjoy a tremendous day’s racing at the in Berkshire. With the addition of the national Junior Inter-Regional Regatta J15 girls’ squad this year, the tone for (JIRR), where they were competing the camp was set from the off, with against the fastest boats from 11 other some lively singing in the minibuses. regions. The best performance of the The camp allowed the rowers to day came from the J15 Coxed Quad, experience rowing in a variety of who won gold in their event. The J15 Coxed Quad with their gold medals at JIRR different boats. Whilst the boys spent quad of Ali Davies, Ben Holehouse, Edgbaston Reservoir at the Birmingham most of the week in small boats, the Adam Pattenden and Ed Hart, coxed Regatta. All J14 athletes raced in girls took the opportunity to try their by Immy Rooney, put together a hand at sweep rowing in an eight for tremendous race in the final. At the quads and octuples through the day. the first time. halfway mark they were around two In the afternoon the J14 Boys’ and Girls’ Octuples took home medals, The J14 camp took place at the more seconds and almost a boat length both beating St Edward’s School, familiar surroundings of the School, down on the fast-starting Henley crew. Oxford on the line. The boys had an where the pupils arrived back fresh- However, they clawed this deficit back extremely exciting race, just being on faced from their various holiday to lead the pack going into the last 500 the right side of a three-foot margin. experiences and were all eager to metres. They then extended their lead There were also wins for the J15 return to the water and push on from to overturn their narrow loss in the Boys’ Quad, the J15 Boys’ Double their success at The Scullery in the Lent heats and win the event by one and a and the J15 Girls’ Quad. Term. With the J14 boys having come half seconds. The J16 coxed four of Ed third at the National event and the girls Lewis, Artem Stopnevich, Max Craik, The first May Bank Holiday weekend finishing sixth, both squads were aware Bryce Rutter and Tomas Shiels also put saw the 1st VIII race in J18A Eights’ that a medal could be well within on an impressive performance to event at the Wallingford Regatta. The their grasp come the Summer Term. win silver. event included a competitive field of The camp proved to be a fantastic While the selected West Midlands 18 crews entered, including all bar one experience for all with a mix of team crews were picking up medals at the of the top ten crews from the Schools’ building, skill development and a few JIRR at Nottingham, the J14A and Head. The 1st VIII raced well in their complementary blisters. B crews were battling it out in the heat, coming in second to St Paul’s 46 SCHOOL NEWS

with a quick start and good cruising pace but struggled to make the most of their speed and had to settle for third place. The 1st VIII raced in the J18 VIIIs’ event. The crew performed strongly, leading the field from start to finish and posting the second fastest time of the day overall. Eighteen crews were selected to compete at the National Schools’ Regatta which was held on Dorney Lake for the first time. The Friday saw four J14 crews and two J15 crews racing in quads and octuples. The warm, calm conditions made for fantastic racing along the marquee-lined 1000m course. With spectators cheering on the close racing for the whole length of the course, it was a great experience for the junior boys and girls racing at the London 2012 Olympic venue. Matt Rowe at the Munich Regatta All six crews put in some excellent School and qualifying for the final with families and Old Salopians on the performances in the highly competitive the third fastest time. In the final the banks of the Severn. formats. The highlight of the afternoon was watching the J14A boys and girls Eton crew rowed impressively to take The Boat Club took five eights and both making the A final, putting them the win from St Paul’s and Radley, the Girls’ 1st Quad to compete at the in the top six in the country. It was with the 1st VIII having to settle for a Nottingham City Regatta. With only the first time we have had a girls’ crew commendable fourth place. one junior category available to race, in the A final at the Regatta and were The second weekend in May saw only the J15As, J16As & Bs and 2nd VIII delighted with the girls’ fifth place one rower miss out on racing on home all entered the IM3 8s category. The water as Matthew Rowe put on a Great first two from each heat of six would Britain vest for the first time to compete proceed to the final. The J15As and at the Munich Regatta. On the Saturday J16As both put in strong performances he narrowly missed out on a medal in against senior opposition to come the Coxless Pair. On Sunday he and his third in their heats and the J16Bs pair’s partner were joined by two other came in fifth out of six. The 2nd VIII boys and made sure of a medal by led their heat from start to finish to winning gold in impressive fashion by progress to the final. In the final the ten seconds. 2nd VIII produced their best row of The Boat Club celebrated its 150th the season and opened up a length on Anniversary in fine style at the the opposition in the first 500 metres, J16s with their bronze medals at the National Shrewsbury Regatta. An armada of which they continued to extend down Schools’ Regatta boats took to the water, with over 100 the course to win by an impressive crews in a variety of boat classes racing margin of five seconds. The Girls’ 1st finish. The boys went one better, across the two days and wins in 44 Quad got their first race this year on a coming in fourth in the final, which different events. A jovial atmosphere multi-lane course in the WJ18 4X event included entries from 26 different was enjoyed by hundreds of pupils, and showed some encouraging signs schools. On Saturday the older crews got a chance to compete, with most following a similar format of time trials, semi-finals and finals over the full 2000 metre course. Once again all crews were competitive on the national stage, with many crews making the A final and placing in the top six. The highlights were the J16Bs winning bronze medals in their event, along with three other crews getting frustratingly close to medals in fourth place, with outstanding rows from the J15As and Bs and the 3rd VIII.The 1st VIII had to settle for winning the B final ahead of Abingdon and King’s Chester, having narrowly missed out on a place in the A final after a slow start in their J14 Girls’ Octuple at the Shrewsbury Regatta semi-final. SCHOOL NEWS 47

Shiplake. The crew consisted of Tomas Shiels, Matthew Rowe, Harry Lane Fox, Gavin O’Dwyer, Barney Fox, Rory McKirdy, Freddie Bonthrone, Paddy George and Henry Thomas. The Marlow Regatta and Henley Women’s Regatta took place on 18th June. The 1st VIII, 2nd VIII and J15 VIIIs returned to Dorney Lake for their last multi-lane race of the season. All three eights showed some good speed. The 1st VIII came fourth in IM1 VIIIs, having gone out hard to turn over St Paul’s off the start but been unable to hold their speed in the closing stages. The 2nd VIII and J15s raced well

Girls’ 1st 4X against various senior crews in their categories and put in a strong showing. On Sunday the Senior Girls got seeded semi-finals and finals. The The girls’ 1st Quad performed well their chance to race in the 1st Quad crews included top crews from around in the time trial at Henley Women’s and came 12th in the time trial. the country including senior clubs and to qualify for the knockout stages. Unfortunately injury struck in the universities. The 1st VIII produced an Unfortunately they drew a strong semi-final and the girls were unable to impressive and powerful performance Nottingham Rowing Club crew who compete in the B final. The 1st VIII split to record an excellent ninth place finish out-powered them in the first round. into two fours, with the coxless four in the time trial and earn a spot in the In the final weekend of the term the putting on a daring attempt to place in A/B semi final. The crew were also the J15 and J16 squads competed in their the medals, only to get caught in the only IM2 eligible crew to make the top last race of the year at Ironbridge dying stages and having to settle for 14 and therefore won their event. In Regatta. On a testing, meandering sixth. The coxed four were third in the the semi-final, the crew were matched course the squads fielded multiple B final. A coxless four from the J16As up against the only other junior crew crews in various boat categories, came an impressive fifth in their final. to make the A/B semi-finals from from singles up to eights, often racing Over the summer half term the 1st VIII Shiplake College who came fourth against much older and experienced enjoyed a productive training camp on in the A final at National Schools. In rowers. On the Saturday, over 1000 the Henley Reach followed by some both the semi-final and respective B metres, the J16 boys raced well to beat great racing at the Metropolitan Regatta final, both school crews traded blows a men’s crew from City of Oxford in on Sunday 5th June. stroke for stroke down the entire IM2 eights. Tessa Scott-Bell made the The crew were entered into the 2000m course. In both races decisive final in J15 girls’ singles and the J15 Challenge Eights event which saw and impressive final pushes from the boys won the J15 single, quad and 60 eights taking part in a time trial, 1st VIII saw them get the better of novice eights categories.

1st VIII at the Metropolitan Regatta 48 SCHOOL NEWS

had got the better of the crew at National Schools and the race was tipped to be one of the closest of the day with Winchester favourites. Fortunately the 1st VIII didn’t pay much attention to the pundits and put on a clinical display by leading from start to finish with an impressive performance. The prize of their success was a second round tie against the favourites Eton College. Unfortunately on this account there were no surprises and despite a valiant effort from the crew they couldn’t match the power of the Eton crew that went on to win the event overall. The Boat Club were delighted to have six pupils selected for international representation over the summer holidays. Matthew Rowe (SH LVI) was selected for the GB Rowing Team men’s coxed four at the World Junior Rowing Championships in Rotterdam at the end of August. Paddy George (M UVI) and Barney Fox (PH LVI) were both selected to race in the GB men’s eight at the Coupe de la Jeunesse, which was held in Poznan, Poland at the end of July. In a thrilling weekend of competition, the crew won double gold. Their win contributed to an outstanding team performance by the GB Rowing Team Juniors, who claimed overall victory in the Coupe de la Jeunesse and recorded the biggest winning margin ever. J14 boys training Alys Howells, Tomas Shiels and Gavin O’Dwyer were all selected to represent On the Sunday, the J15 boys returned events over the course of the day. Wales at the Home Countries Regatta to race in the sprint regatta over 500 The Henley Royal Regatta draw saw that was held in Cardiff. metres, winning the J15 quads, J15 the 1st VIII drawn against Winchester Athol Hundermark doubles, IM3 eights and IM2 eights College in the first round. Winchester

Barney Fox and Paddy George with the G8 Men’s eight at the Coupe de la Jeunesse SCHOOL NEWS 49

Bumps 2016

they are at their most tired at the end of a long school year. One in particular deserves a special mention: Dr Chris Minns retires this year. He may be better known as Head of German, a Tutor in Moser’s Hall or as a football referee; but he has also served on the Impartial Committee of the Bumping Races for (we think) over 25 years, and for a number of years as its Chairman. The Impartial Committee exists to adjudicate on disputed bumps which cannot be n Old Salopian Day (1st October) Queen Elizabeth II - to be awarded to resolved by the umpires alone. They a group of friends met to name the highest placed girls’ crew in the O fastidiously apply the rules fairly and a new double scull ‘Bill Grant’ (SH Bumping Races. even equitably. Over the years they have 1961-65) in memory of their recently Grove I made sure of being the first been called upon to make a number deceased friend. It was an incredibly winners of this prize by successfully of controversial decisions that have touching occasion. Amongst their completing a long-distance bump on angered numerous Housemasters - but reminiscing came the affection they Oldham’s II a few feet before the finish Chris has remained calm in the face of had for their time competing in the line. Radbrook II finished as the most adversity. He will certainly be missed Bumping Races, and of the time that successful crew of the year, bumping in Bill told an unfancied crew he was every race. next year when we celebrate the 150th coaching that they would win blades – anniversary of the Bumping Races – On Friday in Division 1, Churchill’s I plans are afoot to commemorate the they did. It also seems that these races bumped Moser’s I in the first race to occasion; watch this space! have generally remained unchanged give them the opportunity to challenge over the years. They are still fiercely Rigg’s I to be Head of the River. In the Rob Wilson competitive, great fun and memorable second race Churchill’s thought they occasions. This year was no different. had got their long-hoped for bump, but We entered the final day of the it was disallowed as Churchill’s were Bumping Races this year in a familiar judged to be in the safety lane - setting position. Rigg’s Hall were top of up what promised to be an epic finals all three divisions (positions they day as Rigg’s looked to extend their have almost made their own during record seven years at the top and send Peter Middleton’s five-year tenure as outgoing Housemaster PJM off in style. Housemaster - for three of the last four As we waited for the Sabrina river years they have won all three divisions; cruiser to pass, the anticipation built. in 2013 they “only” won two divisions). Further down the Division, Ridgemount Amongst the girls’ crews, The Grove sat bumped Ingram’s and Severn Hill in prime position with both their boats. bumped Oldham’s; but the battle for In Division 3 Oldham’s III and The the Headship was what the crowds Grove II finished as the biggest movers, wanted to watch. Coming past the both two places higher than their Boathouse Churchill’s were closing fast, positions at the start of the week. At the and just past the pontoons it happened: top of the Division, Churchill’s III were Churchill’s bumped Riggs’s. So ended chasing Rigg’s III but were unable to Rigg’s run of seven in a row, which overhaul them, with Rigg’s III rowing will take some beating. There was no over to finish Head of Division 3. The fairytale ending for PJM, but 13 first Grove II already had a boys’ crew place finishes out of a potential 15 is between themselves and their nearest phenomenal - particularly for a runner! challenger Emma Darwin II, but made Churchill’s celebrated finishing Head of sure of their win by bumping School the River for the first time since 2005 - House III. and they did so in style, including a dip Division 2 had a familiar look. Rigg’s II in the Severn for Housemaster Richard sat first ahead of Churchill’s II, and The Hudson. Churchill’s also took home Grove I were ahead of Emma Darwin the Leadbitter Cup (the overall House I. Again Rigg’s were too strong for the rowing prize) with 199 points (second boys from Churchill’s, and Rigg’s took placed Port Hill had 140 points, only 10 the Headship. The Grove and Emma points ahead of 7th placed Oldham’s) - Darwin were challenging for the new could this be the beginning of an era of Elizabeth Cup donated by the President rowing dominance for Churchill’s? of Sabrina Club, Miles Preston (DB Many thanks to all the staff who make 1963-68) - named on the occasion the running of the Bumping Races of the 90th birthday of Her Majesty possible. They work tirelessly when 50 SCHOOL NEWS

Hockey

It has been an exciting term for girls’ hockey, with the opening of a new astro facility in September. The official opening ceremony was performed by GB hockey player and double Olympian Simon Mantell, who then stayed on at the School to watch the inaugural Invitational Sevens’ Tournament.

The new facility means that we have of an ’Elite Development Squad’, We welcomed 11 schools on site for the been able to schedule more matches which allows players identified with U14 County Hockey Tournament on than ever before for our four girls’ potential to pursue their hockey to a 7th October. We got off to a solid start hockey teams, including block fixtures higher level via a structured strength with a 1-0 victory over Meole Brace against Moreton Hall, Christ College and conditioning programme and elite School. Our next game was a great Brecon and Denstone. It has been coaching sessions. battle against Moreton Hall. After end good to see so many pupils enjoying On 26th September, we hosted to end hockey and chances on both the new astro, not just those involved the U16 Schools’ County Hockey sides, we managed to break through in teams but a number of people Championships, which nine schools to win 1-0. From here, we went having a go at hockey for the first entered. We won all our pool matches: from strength to strength, remaining time. And we have also been working Shrewsbury High School 2-0, Lacon unbeaten and recording victories over closely with the Shropshire Hockey Childe 5-0, Meole Brace 2-0 and Shrewsbury High School and Ellesmere Association and England Hockey to Thomas Telford 2-0. We went on to College. The team went on to represent ensure that the hockey family within beat Ellesmere College in the semi-final Shropshire at the Midlands Zone on the wider community benefits from but lost 1-0 to Moreton Hall in the final. 14th November. our new facility. Nevertheless, the team progressed to Nicola Bradburne This year also sees the implementation the Midlands Regional Zone.

U16 Team U14 Team SCHOOL NEWS 51 52 SCHOOL NEWS

RSSH Third Form Race New record is set for girls’ running at Shrewsbury The next time the runners came into view for most of us was at the home straight, as the course pops out from behind the Moser Library and Art Building to come round the front of Chapel and snake round to the finish at Main School Building. At this point, it was clear that Oscar had extended his lead somewhat, and he crossed the finish line in an impressive 8:16 (interestingly, this was exactly the same winning time as both last year’s winner, Sam Western, and the 2011 winner, Oscar Dickins). The next runner to come into view was quite a surprise to many, and was undoubtedly the story of the day – Francesca Harris had managed to pull away from the other boys in that trailing pack and she crossed the line Oscar Hamilton-Russell and Francesca Harris in an astonishing 8:25. Not only does he first Saturday of the Michalemas Given that it comes near the end of a this smash the previous girls’ record set Tterm gave our new Third Form their terrifically busy first week at the School by Lilian Wilcox last year, but it is also first ever opportunity to represent their – the Third Form barely get to pause to the fastest time ever run by a girl of any House in sport as they lined up for the draw breath in the opening fortnight of age over this course - even beating the annual Third Form Race around the this term – the energy and enthusiasm record set by last year’s Huntswoman, historic ‘Benjy’ route, a one-and-a-half on display in this race was a fantastic Olivia Papaioannou. mile figure-of-eight course around the sight to behold. As the runners darted Fred Jones managed to hold off the School site. As they darted off across out of view down Oldham’s Gap just opposition to cross the line next, in a Central on an overcast but pleasantly before the halfway point in the race, good time of 8:36, just ahead of Timothy mild afternoon, they joined the ranks the pace was being impressively set by Clarkson-Webb (O) in 8:43 who took of thousands of Salopians who have Riggite Oscar Hamilton-Russell (behind bronze in the boys’ race. Second in trodden this path in years gone by. our hare, our Huntsman Freddie Huxley- the girls’ race was Lucy Lees (EDH), Not only was it a first for them, but Fielding, who was having to work rather in a strong time of 10:02. The strength it was a first for me too, as Master in harder than he had perhaps anticipated) in depth of both boys’ and girls’ races Charge of the Hunt, having taken over who had built up a small gap ahead was really exciting, with some excellent the mantle this year following the end of of three runners – Orlando Williams performances right down the field. the Hunt’s dauntingly successful period (Rt), Fred Jones (Rb) and leading girl, The House team gold was won under Mr Middleton. The prospect of Francesca Harris (EDH). Around a confidently by Emma Darwin Hall in seeing what sort of talent we’ve got kilometre in at this point, just about the the girls’ race, 12 points ahead of Mary coming into the School this year was a whole field was still managing to keep Sidney Hall in second and The Grove in tremendous source of excitement to me, up a decent pace and the combination third. The boys’ House race was won by and the race certainly did not disappoint of crowd support and the prospect of Severn Hill, ahead of last year’s winners in bringing to my attention some a descent to the River Severn may have Rigg’s in second, with Radbrook taking individuals of tremendous potential. helped to buoy spirits here. third position. SCHOOL NEWS 53

The Tucks breaking performance. Freddie has been in lightning form recently despite a slight In the days and weeks leading up to the niggle in his knee, and it was great to annual Tucks race, we waited anxiously see him go one better than his second for the traditional downpour that place in last year’s race and take the would make running through Tuck’s field its usual muddy, sticky mess. This Hector Rose Bowl for 2016. year it was not to be, and conditions Not far behind Freddie was fellow greeting the runners as they assembled Riggite Will Hayward, who crossed the in Meole Brace playing fields were line in 18:33, wearing his trademark nigh on perfect for cross-country: cool expression of grit and pain. Next across temperatures, no real wind to speak of, the line was the 2014 winner, Charlie dry overhead and underfoot. Tait-Harris. In many ways, this year’s The race got away cleanly with the first run was even more impressive from wave of runners getting through onto him than that victory, since he had Church Road without incident. Harry suffered a bad injury in a 1st XI football Remnant made a very strong charge match only the day before. That he ran and was in the lead out of the field, but at all is testament to his bravery and Freddie Huxley-Fielding most of the Hunt favourites seemed to determination, but his performance to wait until all the times and positions have managed a decent start and were (18:46) under these circumstances shows were collated, but with Severn Hill and not too far down the pack. Second, third what a huge talent he is in this sport. Rigg’s getting so many of their boys (five and fourth wave were then loosed at Fourth place was taken by Fifth Former and four, respectively) inside the top two-minute intervals. As the fourth wave Harry Remnant (Ch) in 18:53, someone 20 positions, it was fairly obvious that it got underway, Colonel David’s dog who is currently dividing his time very would be between these two. could contain his excitement no longer successfully between running and rugby, Once the results were in, Rigg’s were and escaped his handler’s clutches and definitely one to look out for in announced as the overall victors, taking to embark on a mad, suicidal dash, the next couple of years in both sports. the Mallett Cup from last year’s winners charging into the fray as it veered round Scott Hatton (S) came through in 19:16, Severn Hill by just 19 points. The the gap in the fence. That he made it out and sixth place was taken by Cameron strength in depth of Rigg’s just made the other side still alive is nothing short Anwyl, also of Severn Hill, in 19:36. In the difference in the end, with their 7th of miraculous. arguably the performance of the day, and 8th counters coming through in There were some nervous, quiet few seventh place was claimed by Port Hill’s 26th and 31st place, while Severn Hill’s minutes after this fourth and final wave Sam Western, a Fourth Former, in 19:57. came through in 38th and 39th. A great Among the girls, it was no surprise battle though, and with several of Severn to see Francesca Harris (EDH) cross Hill’s best runners in the Lower Sixth or the line first. But what perhaps was below, this rivalry is set to continue into surprising was just how far up the next year. field of boys she finished, taking 26th Among the girls’ Houses the race position overall. Her time of 21:04 is was also close, with Emma Darwin frankly remarkable and shows how claiming victory over Mary Sidney by much promise she has as a runner. only 18 points. One to watch! Overall, this was a great way to end the In second in 23:54 came Lilian Wilcox first half term of the year (the House (EDH), herself only a Fourth Former, while Singing Competition that evening Huntswoman Immie Evans of The Grove notwithstanding). The competitive was not far behind, taking third in 24:12. atmosphere at the front of the race was India Eaton (EDH LVI) finished a cracking balanced nicely by a real sense of fun run in 24:36 to claim 4th, while just behind and enthusiasm further down the pack, disappeared down Church Road, as her, Georgie Nicholas (MSH), another and there were some terrific individual we waited for the first finisher to round Third Former, took 5th place in 24:40. achievements right through the field. the gap in the hedge and dash for the The results of the team competition had Ian Haworth finish line. George Mallett’s record time of 17:20 came and went, though this is perhaps best explained by the course being probably slightly longer this year. The main path through Tucks field has got straighter and straighter over the last few years and in order to take it back to its original distance of 3.1 miles, groundsmen were asked to place the gates closer to the Rea Brook, which made the course perhaps close to a minute longer than last year’s. Nevertheless, as the clock ticked past 18 minutes, Freddie Huxley-Fielding (R) rounded the field and claimed a fully deserved (and widely predicted) victory in a time of 18:16. Given the slight variance of course length, this perhaps represents something close to a record- 54 SCHOOL NEWS

Sports Day 2016 SCHOOL NEWS 55

Equestrian

Shrewsbury equestrians enjoyed a very busy and productive October half term, with a fruitful trip to the National Schools Equestrian Association NSEA Championships held at Addington Manor, Buckinghamshire and individual wins at the NSEA Somerset and Avon County Qualifiers and at the Aldon International Horse Trials.

per team are required, eight teams qualified for the final and Shrewsbury finished in a very good sixth place. On 29th and 30th October, Charlotte Hollinshead (G III) represented Shrewsbury School as an individual in the NSEA Somerset and Avon County Qualifiers held at the KSEC Centre. Riding her pony Crystal, she came second in the 95cm class and then won the 1 metre – the highest class of the day. t the NSEA Championships at The following day, Mimi Ashworth and Meanwhile, Thomas Tulloch (Rt UVI) AAddington Manor, Shrewsbury’s Paddy Barlow were joined by Scott enjoyed an excellent win at Aldon 90cm Show Jumping team of Tristan Walker (SH LVI) and Lily Freeman- International Horse Trials in the CIC Lywood (Rt UVI), Mimi Ashworth Attwood (EDH IV), winner of the (International Novice) class, riding Bally (EDH V), Paddy Barlow (R IV) and U16 Championship title at the British Blackjack, a young horse he has been Oscar Hamilton-Russell (R III) posted Showjumping National Championships producing this year. Having already four double clears in the first round to in August, to make up the 1m Show achieved great success with Team finish an excellent fifth out of 44 teams. Jumping team. Out of 33 teams starting, GB in international Pony Eventing This qualified them for the evening Shrewsbury were the only team to Championships over the last couple of final where they were unlucky and achieve four double clears in the first years, this is Thomas’ first international eventually finished in eighth place. round. However, as only three scores win at senior level.

Shooting ollowing an intensive training things about shooting is that it is a Fweekend with the GB Under-19 completely gender-neutral sport. It is Rifle Squad at the National Shooting one of the only sports at Shrewsbury Centre, Bisley in October, Hattie where girls and boys can compete on a Bramwell (EDH LVI) has been selected level playing field.” for the GB team which will compete in “Some people don’t even realise there South Africa next Easter. At the age of is a shooting range here at school,” just 16, Hattie is the youngest member she says. “There are training sessions of the GB U19 team. each Wednesday evening and during Over the summer, Hattie competed Societies Hour on a Monday, and our with the UK Cadet Rifle Team on their coach, Tom Rylands (Ch 1973-77) is Channel Islands tour. She finished as coach to the GB Under-25s Team. He’ll the second placed U18 in the Grand also be travelling out to South Africa Aggregate (the combined total of all next Easter at the same time as the the shooting scores from across the GB U19 tour, to compete as part of week) and as winner of the Gallican the main GB Team. We’re really lucky Trophy, the top U18 shooter at 500 yards. In this year’s Ashburton that he brings with him a Scatt training Shield (the national schools shooting machine for the Shrewsbury Shooting competition staged at Bisley each Team to use each week, which is an July), where Hattie competed as part Olympic-standard piece of equipment.” of Sedbergh School’s team, she was Numbers taking part in the sport are not only the top Under-16 for the increasing at the School and include whole week of the competition but Hattie’s two younger brothers, Arthur also the top individual shooter. and George. Having entered a team Having now moved to Shrewsbury of four for the national schools for the Sixth Form, Hattie is keen to competition in previous years, help raise the profile of shooting at Shrewsbury’s Shooting Club hope to Hattie Bramwell with the Gallican Trophy she Shrewsbury. “One of the really fantastic enter a full team of eight next July. won on the UK Cadet Rifle Team Tour in August 56 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

FROM THE DIRECTOR Arte, libro, remo, folle Gloriam petamus

The Salopian Club has been doing its best to live up to the 12th March (a unique chance for OS players to dust off their exhortation of the Carmen Salopiense. The oar (“remus”) has musical instruments). If you would like to participate, please been much in evidence this year with the celebrations of the get in touch with us. 150th Anniversary of the Royal Shrewsbury School Boat Club, But lest we should appear too London-centric, the ever culminating in a recent dinner on the Thames that no-one popular Birmingham dinner is planned for Thursday 16th is ever likely to forget. This year also saw the first Sabrina March and the equally renowned Sabrina Club reception at Club eight ever to qualify for the Henley Royal Regatta. Henley for Saturday 1st July. And remember the final two We also wish the very best of fortune to all our more land lines of the Carmen: based sports teams during their winter seasons, mostly with “Et per ultimos Britannos the ball (“follis”). Nomen celebretur.” The Arts Committee continues to expand its programme, So when two or three Salopians are gathered together in this starting with an Old Salopian Art Exhibition in October country or in the far-flung reaches of the world, let us know and now planning a winter series of events in London – an and we may be able to contact more Salopians than you Epiphany Service with an Old Salopian choir at St Mary le think to join the party. Bow on Wednesday 11th January, attendance at Evensong at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 23rd February, and a joint Floreat Salopia. OS/School orchestral concert in Cadogan Hall on Sunday Nick Jenkins

Moser’s Hall Reunion We were delighted to welcome some 200 former and current members of Moser’s Hall and their families to a reunion on 26th June. The weather was kind enough to allow for much mingling and catching up to be done, speeches to be made and lunch to be enjoyed before a gentle drizzle started to fall later in the afternoon. The back lawn of Moser’s was transformed with white hospitality tents and red and black bunting and was filled with Moserites of every generation. The honour of being the oldest Moserite present went to Michael Andrews (1940-44), who attended with his son Nic (1970-75). All five living housemasters were able to attend and speeches were made by Robin Moulsdale (I 1942-46 and Moser’s Housemaster 1962-76) and by Dr Paul Pattenden (Housemaster 2010-current). OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 57

Salopian Club Battlefield Tour to Normandy 15-19 September 2016 D-Day 1944 and the Battle for Normandy were strongly influenced by Salopians. 21st Army Group, the invading land force, had been trained in Britain under the eye of General Sir Bernard Paget (Ch 1901-05) before Montgomery took over operational command, while command of the British Second Army on the beaches and beyond fell to Lieutenant-General Sir Miles Dempsey (I 1911-14). Many other Salopians also took part in the operation, with some paying the ultimate price.

tour of this nature. At different times it was fascinating, amusing, and yet poignant. No tour would be complete without visits to the immaculately kept Commonwealth Graves. From our party, Mark Howells (SH 1973-1978) was able to visit the grave of his uncle in a quiet corner of Secqueville-en- Bassin, while our party as a whole laid a wreath in the Bayeux Cemetry to all Salopians who fell in the Battle for

Under the expert guidance of OS Engineers in the party were able to military historian, Peter Caddick-Adams view the extraordinary feat of the (Ch 1974-1978), a party of 20 intrepid Mulberry Harbour at Arromanches, Salopians and their wives set out for film buffs were reminded of the the Salopian Club Battlefield Tour from opening scenes of “Saving Private Victoria Embankment for the overnight Ryan” on Omaha Beach, and gourmets Normandy. On the Bayeux Memorial crossing from Portsmouth, calling en enjoyed a series of excellent dinners the inscription reads: “Nos a Gulielmo route at the Map Room at Southwick in Caen in remarkably friendly and victi victoris patriam liberavimus – We Park, the advance command post of cohesive company. who were conquered by William have the Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Any interested Salopian should not freed the land of our conqueror”. Let us Expeditionary Force. Our approach hesitate to embark on a battlefield hope – never again. to Normandy in the half light of an overcast dawn gave us some inkling of what faced that armada of warships and small boats on June 6th, 1944.

Prior to the sea-borne invasion, airborne troops had dropped, by glider and parachute, to seize vital bridges over the Caen Canal and so we enjoyed a welcome breakfast in Benouville at the Café Gondree, still run by Arlette Gondree, then a child in 1944 in the first building in France to be liberated. Thereafter we followed the campaign from Sword Beach to a series of British attempts to break through an outnumbered but highly skilled adversary – Operations Perch, Epsom, and Goodwood – but the consequences (whether intended or not by Monty) were to hold down vital German formations, thus allowing the Americans finally to break out further west. 58 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Old Salopian Day

Old Salopian Day 2016 on 1st October had a somewhat different and exhibitions, including a display in the Moser library feel to that of previous years, as we moved to a new format on the origins and history of football at the School and a centred on a celebration black tie dinner for anniversary year science display in the Craig Building. The highlight was groups. There were plenty of activities during the day also and undoubtedly the Old Salopian Art Exhibition, which featured these were open to all OS, ensuring that there was something some wonderful pieces and was organised principally by Max for everyone. Baccanello (Rt 2001-06). Unfortunately the weather was uncharacteristically wet and Unperturbed by the rain, the OS footballers, who had managed dreary, almost unheard of over Shrewsbury of course, but this to put together an impressive five teams to take on the School, didn’t seem to dampen spirits and we had excellent turnout won all but one of their matches before tucking into match for the lunch time drinks reception and the grand opening of tea in Quod. Unfortunately the weather led to a rather soggy the Chatri Design Centre. experience for our returning netballers, who retired to MSH a The School buildings around Quod had put together displays little earlier than planned for drinks and nibbles.

a soldier, historian, sportsman, and Salopian as well as devoted family man was recounted by his fellow Salopian and Green Jacket, Colonel Johnny Schute (M 1974-78), supported by contributions from two of Christopher’s Salopian contemporaries, Roger Musson (Rt 1955-60) and Richard Barber (SH 1955-60). A memorable evening of dinner and Lieutenant General speeches was rounded off by a raffle Sir Christopher Wallace organised by Tony Blacoe (Rt 1956-61) Memorial Dinner in aid of the UCL Amyloidosis Research Fund (combating the disease which No fewer than 50 Salopians and guests Christopher endured so courageously) attended a dinner held at the East India and Shrewsbury House, Liverpool, and Club on 27th October in memory of the thereafter by a hearty rendition of the late Lieutenant General Sir Christopher Carmen. Christopher would have been Wallace (Rt 1956-60). The Guest of delighted that a dinner, of which he Honour was Christopher’s wife, Delicia, had been one of the originators, had and Christopher’s remarkable life as finally come to fruition.

Hong Kong Dinner Every year, Shrewsbury School takes part in the ‘Top Schools Weekend’ organised by education consultants Academic Asia, when representatives from schools across the UK travel to Hong Kong to interview prospective students for admission in the next academic year. Shrewsbury’s Admissions team were hugely grateful to many Old Salopians living in Hong Kong and to the Friends of Shrewsbury School Hong Kong for their wonderful support throughout the three-day event. On 17th September, after a long day of interviews, the Shrewsbury delegation hosted a dinner with FSSHK members, parent helpers and Old Salopian helpers at the Craigengower Cricket Club for a ‘get to know each other’ session. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 59

News of Old Salopians

1940-59 Fourth Centenary year and the Queen David Mitchell (Rt 1947-52) thought with Prince Philip came to mark our that we might enjoy the following celebrations on 24th October 1952. Brian Fawcett (DB 1943-47) notified amusing story: “My father, Alfred Norval A rather lovely book “Portrait of us that the marriage took place on Mitchell (SH 1920-25) was always Shrewsbury School” was printed and 22nd October 2016 of Isabelle Louise known as Alf until he met my mother published in 1953 by Wilding & Son Hancock and Andrew Young. Isabelle at Henley in 1928, when he introduced Ltd., portraying the life of the School is the granddaughter of Brian and himself as Norval. The name passed from the grant of our charter to that his wife Marie Thérèse Fawcett and as a middle name to me, my first memorable visit of our Queen. Most is a qualified professional Registrar, son, Alistair Norval and my grandson of the photographs in the publication serving both at Gloucester and Bristol Bradley Norval. Family tradition said are by Adolph Morath, but there were NHS in Emergency Medicine and the name came up in a 19th century several other sources, including the now training as Consultant. Another play in the lines: Shrewsbury Chronicle. This photograph of their granddaughters, Stephanie is one of theirs, which was not included Wilson, graduated this year with BSc “My name is Norval, on the Grampian in the book, but with others was made 1st Class Hons in Music Performance Hills available to the pupils. I am the very and Creative Technology at Bristol My father feeds his flocks,...... ” small boy, front left! University of West England No one knew any real details until, The photograph means a great deal for after some research, I found the source me, not simply because of its context, of the lines: a verse play by John but because both my continuing love Home called ‘Douglas’, first produced of music and the development of in Edinburgh in 1756. When I shared my Christian faith stemmed from my this story with my grandson, he experience in the Chapel Choir, the immediately decided that he too was kindness and leadership of John Stainer going to be called Norval in future. He and the two Chaplains - Furnival and is now working on this project, though Tupper. Now, whenever I hear the whether it will take hold with his Stanford Te Deum, I think back with mother is a question! immense joy to the many times I sang that glorious treble solo, and my heart Robert Butler (S 1952-56) sent us a leaps with thanks to John Stainer. He photograph and the following thoughts: very patiently taught me to start to “This photo may be of little interest to play the organ in my last year. I am current Salopians, but it is very dear to still an enthusiastic but very careless me! I came to Shrewsbury in Lent 1952 amateur organist, and have played in as the youngest and smallest boy in the the churches we attended in Brussels, School. For that first term I was looked Maison Lafitte and Cheshire, and even after by Arnold Hagger and his wife, in Uruguay on a Trade Mission with Margaret, very kindly in their ‘waiting’ John Gummer years ago. I still, at 78, house, before going into Severn Hill play from time to time in our parish Hugh Quick (O 1943-48) wrote to in the Summer Term. When I arrived church of St Dunstan in Cranbrook, say, “I am 86 now and live comfortably at Shrewsbury, John Stainer was the and in one or two of the nearby village in a lovely village in Somerset and am Director of Music and he immediately churches, since finding an Organist very fortunate to feel well and even put me into the Chapel Choir. At the has become so difficult for them more fortunate to continue more than beginning of the Michaelmas term I nowadays.” 50 years of happiness with my wife. became a leading treble. This was the While I am aware that old age is a time of great stress for many people, younger folk should remember that it isn’t always so, and that it can be most enjoyable.”

Hugh Bown (SH 1944-1948) sent us details of a book that he has re- published, which was written by his father and first published in 1928. ‘Was it Yesterday?’ is about an artillery officer in WW1 and both editions have received good reviews. All proceeds will go to the Royal British Legion and to the Oxford College to which Hugh’s father won a top scholarship in 1912. Details are on www.yesterday1914.co.uk 60 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Nick Carey (I 1952-57) contributed interest to find underground pipes on 41 years. He was a Director of the the following: “Some of my memories estates and more recently the location National Study Center for Trauma and of Shrewsbury are lost in the mists of of a septic tank. I also found ley lines Emergency Medical Systems and did time, but I do remember that I was so that a client could plant a new clinical work at the Shock Trauma completely hopeless at games and orchard on them. The trees had to be Center. He wrote to say: was no more than average in the planted on the crossing point in both classroom, so it was not easy to be directions. My greatest success was to part of the mainstream at school. But dowse to find a mobile phone I had I made a number of good friends and, lost in a wood on a slope covering most importantly, was introduced by about an acre. I found it on the third Christopher Steel to Wagner’s operas. sweep. After I fully retired I joined the Rather surprisingly, I found I was British Society of Dowsers and attend quite good at Chemistry and so, after their annual conferences. four happy years at Trinity College Dublin (TCD), I went to King’s College, Dr R. O. Law (Ch 1954-59) recently “I sailboat race and scull regularly on Cambridge to do a PhD in Inorganic retired from a Senior Lectureship in Cell the Chesapeake Bay. I joined other Chemistry. This was followed up as Physiology & Pharmacology at Leicester 1960 1st VIII members in rowing a NATO fellow in Canada and the University. He is the author of over 100 over the Henley course last year. I Netherlands. By this time I had married scientific papers and has attended many am currently working on establishing Helen, the best thing I ever did as she worldwide conferences on biomedical yet another record for the 1960 and is everything I am not (thoughtful, science. During the latter part of the 1961 crews by seeing if they can generous and sharp). We have two 20th century, he sat for many years be persuaded to make one more sons, both in Television. on the Management Committee of the appearance in front of the roaring I then joined ICI and spent 23 Squash Rackets Association. crowds in 2020 (60th Anniversary of splendid years on the commercial the win. Surely no one would want to side, negotiating various kinds of attempt to beat that!)” 1960-69 arrangements across the world. I Colin has been married to Cristina for ended up as MD of Petrochemicals 37 and they have two children, one of on Teesside. I left in 1993 to become John Gilbert (R 1956-60) wrote to whom is about to receive a PhD, and Director-General of City and Guilds, say “My wife, myself and school friend he lives looking at beautiful dawns a move that enabled me to renew my Francis Grundy (also Riggs 1956-60) nearly every day from his porch. links with the City Livery Companies visited Shrewsbury for OS Day and and introduced me to the world of had a really wonderful time. Although Further Education. After I retired, I it poured with rain most of Saturday, David Egerton-Smith (M 1956-61) became National Chairman of the this did not dim our enjoyment. After has led this team of five fit 70-year-old Alzheimers Society and a founding drinks and lunch we attended the professionals, with David Kempton member of a new Livery Company, opening of the magnificent Chatri (M 1954-59) managing the logistics, The Worshipful Company of Educators. building - how I wish it had been there walking 3,300 km over the last 16 in my time! We also made our first visit years, on Europe’s ancient pilgrim to the new Boathouse and went round routes. These include the Comino to George Seager Berry (Rt 1954-58) Rigg’s, stirring many memories. Sunday Santiago Compostela, the Francigena to After reading forestry at Edinburgh, was a beautiful sunny day and after Rome and the St Francis Way through I later joined a firm of Chartered chapel we were able to tour the school Umbrian mountains to Assisi. (David Surveyors in Totnes, South Devon, grounds and discover much that was Kempton on left, David Egerton-Smith where one of the other partners is new to us. A great weekend!” second from left.) Paul Wiseman (S 1963-68), managing woods mainly in South Devon. I’m now fully retired and very busy being involved in a local church and currently co-chairman of the second oldest tennis and croquet club in England. I much enjoy my weekly Exercises For You, Zumba and Pilates. When time allows, I indulge in my hobbies of dowsing and cooking, especially Indian meals. I became interested in dowsing by chance about 45 years ago when taking a practical exam in farm buildings. One of the invigilators asked another if he would like to try to find an underground water pipe using L rods. I watched and was fascinated when the rods reacted and crossed so I bought a Colin Mackenzie (S 1955-60) has dowsing set of L rods which I still use, been made a Professor Emeritus at Rodney Baker-Bates (M 1957-62) pendulums and plastic V rod. the University of Maryland School of turned 72 in April 2016 but continues Many years later I became more Medicine in Baltimore USA, where his board career as Chairman of Willis interested in dowsing and used my he worked as a physician for the last Ltd (insurance broker), G’s Group OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 61

Holdings & Fram Farmers Ltd (a major Peter Milewski (I 1959-64) went but the memory of it causes me to East Anglian farming businesses); on to study Medicine at Cambridge reflect that there is probably a greater and Push Energy (a major alternative and Oxford, eventually obtaining a connection between school life in the energy supplier). He also retains his Mastership in Surgery at the University mid-1960s and today than a current trusteeship of the Royal National of Cambridge, having done research pupil might think. Pension Fund for Nurses. on surgical nutrition in sepsis. His surgical training was mainly in Bristol Kim Marshall (S 1961-65) continues and Manchester but he managed a David Bailey (I 1958-63) is pleased to to consult and present on how schools brief interlude getting his so-called advise that his fictional biography: “The can do a better job supervising and ‘BTA badge’. That used to mean ‘Been English Woman and C.G. Jung” has evaluating teachers. For recent articles, to America’ but in his case it was been accepted for publication by the see www.marshallmemo.com (click ‘Been to Ascension Island’, resulting publishers Austin Macauley. He says: Kim’s Published Writing). He has also in interesting encounters with GCHQ released a (free) 15-page summary “The book is the story of my Great spies, RAF toughies and turtles. Peter of Jared Diamond’s Pullitzer Prize- Aunt, Ruth Bailey, who is mentioned in became a “country” general surgeon at winning book, ‘Guns, Germs, and Steel’ many books about Jung. She met him Withybush Hospital in Pembrokeshire, - an explanation of why the Western by chance as he went out on an African specialising in colo-rectal surgery and Europeans took over the world (also expedition in 1925. They impressed introducing keyhole surgery to the available on Kim’s website). In other each other and he invited her to join his area. After retirement in 2010, Peter’s news, Kim is a two-time grandfather, expedition to study native customs and main pleasures have consisted of and says that the experience is dreams on Mount Elgon in Uganda. She seeing his four children get married and wonderful! also accompanied them homewards produce beautiful grandchildren, going through the Sudanese desert and down caravanning with his wife Julie and two the Nile to Cairo. She became a friend dogs, and playing bridge. of the whole Jung family for the next 40 years and, after Emma Jung’s death, Ruth looked after Jung for six years Christopher Pearson (M 1960-65) until his death in 1961. She met most wrote to say: “Looking round Moser’s at of his eminent professional colleagues the boys’ house ‘wake’ this last summer and was instrumental in helping him prompted me to think that, to any also regularly to meet eminent people current pupil, the ideas and regimens from outside the narrow world of which governed us in the School in psychoanalysis, for example Laurens the 1960s would seem unimaginably van der Post, Hugo Charteris and different. However, it also prompted Wolfgang Pauli. me to recall a little experiment, of It is a story I have long wanted to tell, which I was part in my last term, the not least because my father took us Michaelmas Term of 1965, which at the all on holiday to Switzerland in 1957, time seemed radical but which looks primarily to see Ruth who invited us now to have been an example of the over for an afternoon to meet Jung. start of a long evolutionary process that Shamefully, at the age of 12, I was as has taken place over the intervening impressed by the chocolate cakes as by years. It involved the superannuation of six boys from their respective the eminent psychoanalyst!” Robert Parry (SH 1962-67) and Ian houses, in which each of us had Moreton (SH 1962-67) completed five long years, and August 2016 marked the 50th Roderick Livingston (Ch 1958-63) placing us for one term in spacious Anniversary of four Salopians rowing wrote to say: “I have been elected accommodation at the back of across the English Channel from Chairman, for a term of four years, Kingsland House in order to work for Folkestone to Bolougne. They were of the Council of Military Education Oxbridge entrance under the overall, and still are the youngest crew to have Committees of the Universities of the but deliberately not overarching, achieved this. Ian and Robert met up UK, which represents the interests supervision of a senior master (in at Henley in July to remember the of Universities in negotiations with practice the then Director of Music). anniversary. You can read the full story Defence and the Armed Forces over We were thereby granted considerable under the Sabrina pages. policy development in officer training, freedoms. No longer subject to House the University Service Units and the responsibilities, we could use the time Reserve Forces.” as we chose: to work or not to work; Kevin Stower (Rt 1962-67) says to explore some of the freedoms and that our email arrived at a time when excitements of life beyond school; in he happens to have been thinking Robin Leggate (S 1959-64) officially short to become trial undergraduates. quite a bit about his friends and retired from the stage in 2011 and has Three of us made it to Oxbridge (two contemporaries and wondering since much enjoyed the good life in Oxford, one Cambridge) and three what they did with their lives, what Suffolk and particularly on Thorpeness didn’t. I rather doubt this result made they achieved, what joys they have Golf Course. He is, though, going to any difference to our future careers experienced, what disasters have make one last appearance at Covent either way, but I have always been befallen them. He went on to say that Garden in July 2017, singing the role of immensely grateful for the ideas and for a host of reasons, related to his Emperor Altoum in eight performances opportunities this last term provided. own family circumstances at the time, of Turandot. I don’t know whether the formula he did not particularly enjoy his time was repeated (it may well have been), at Shrewsbury, but recognises that it 62 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

taught him a great deal in preparing Technology Innovator Awards. They for life, and that ultimately it is people Andrew Clark (M 1963-68) thought recently launched a new service to rather than institutions that matter. we may like to mention that he is help enterprises raise funds for growth. He enjoys reading this section of the Chairman of Warwick Racecourse and The service is aimed at early stage and magazine and would like to touch base any Old Salopians interested in horse existing high growth companies who again with some of his contemporaries. racing would be most welcome to are considering crowdfunding. For We are very happy to pass on emails join him for lunch and an afternoon’s more information contact Clive Bonny and letters if you would like to get racing. Last April he helped to organise at [email protected] supported by back in touch with Kevin, although an Old Salopian day at the races, with greengrowthplatform@brighton.ac.uk he did say “I imagine that some will help from Tim Cox (Ch 1969-73) and be extremely disappointed that I have they are planning to repeat it again resurfaced again!”. this season. Anyone interested can John Burton (Ch 1969-71) sent contact him via this email address: us this update: “I left Shrewsbury Peter Moore Dutton (SH 1963-67) [email protected]. before entering the Sixth Form and wrote to tell us: “On 14th September started working on the family farm in Shropshire. Aged 21, I decided that I married Mrs Val Riley, who lived in Dick France (I 1964-69) wrote to farming wasn’t for me and moved to Malpas and I have known for three say: “I just retired in July and wish I Liverpool where my then girlfriend and a half years. We were married had done it earlier! Birds flown the (and now wife) was at university. My in Tushingham Church and had a nest and now building a new house only ‘real qualification’ other than the reception at my home, Tushingham in Woore, North Shropshire, which O levels I obtained at Shrewsbury was Hall. John Richards OBE, DL (M 1957- was a big mistake as not laid a brick a shotgun licence. This conveniently 62) was my best man.” yet after three years. But hopefully it happened to be the requirement, will be started by the publication date on the Job Centre advertisement, for of this magazine. I self-published a driving a zebra-striped Landrover book called ‘The Witch Biker’s Ride around the lion enclosure at the local through the Balance Sheet’ for teaching Safari Park (and presumably shooting students of business and accounting any large feline that might happen to an introduction to accounting with fancy lunching on a punter). So armed humour. Is that even possible with (no pun intended) with ‘a licence the subject matter? It was written as a to kill’ I became a game warden at novel and has gone down really well Knowsley Safari Park. with first year University students and young entrepreneurs but it needs a My subsequent career included publisher with guts to move it on. becoming the Dog Warden for the City I completed lay reader training last of Liverpool during the day, driver for autumn, so very pleased to hear from the out of hours doctors’ deputising anyone who has also done the same or service at night and in between just if you knew me at school, although studying for my A Levels, in one year, I appreciate that might be a deterrent. at night school. If any current pupils (contact: [email protected]). are reading this, I can confirm that I also thought it would be good to Shrewsbury School is probably the have at least one entry in The Salopian easier route (trust me). Martin Webb (Rt 1964-68) says: before my obituary, which I hope is not I then qualified at Liverpool Polytechnic “I actually retired this year officially, imminent!” as an Environmental Health officer although I decided to take early working for Liverpool City Council. After moving first to the Wirral and retirement 18 months ago with a Hutch Smith (R 1968-69) mentioned then Dorset, I left local government payout! Now, 65, I can enjoy a busier that he recently reconnected with a after 20 years or so, taking a year life with my son (33) and daughter great friend from Shrewsbury, Simon out to travel overland from the UK (36) and their respective children and Marrian (SH 1965-69), and they enjoyed to Nepal. I then started a business my grandsons (aged 1 and 4). There their exchange of fond memories from running trekking tours in Nepal. After are three generations in this photo of a mere 50 years ago! “the Webbs” buying my grandson’s first the attacks of September 11, 2001 I shoes! I hope it is of some interest to looked for a new venture and started fellow Ridgemount friends from 1964 1970-79 a business producing customised cook to 1968! books. I also took up photography firstly as an amateur and subsequently Clive Bonny (M 1966-71) is the doing some professional work. I won Managing Director of Strategic the Renaissance Photography Prize in Management Partners, an independent 2008 and my images have been widely consultancy providing strategic published. planning advice, training, coaching and Six years ago my wife and I gave support to large and small organisations up running on the ‘hamster wheel’ across a wide range of sectors to and moved to a smallholding in provide proven process improvements. Carmarthenshire. We both enjoy They were recently named the ‘Most walking in rural Wales in the summer Advanced Independent Consultancy and travelling elsewhere in the winter - Brighton & Hove’ at the 2016 where we can often be found be found OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 63 trekking in the Himalayas, driving the the left is Richard Purdey (M 1955-58) length of India or doing something John Hooker (O 1970-75) wrote and on the right is Nigel Beaumont (I similarly inappropriate for old folks to say: “I founded a new consulting 1968-71). James Purdey is a gunmaker. like us. Somewhere along the way we company a year ago with a Danish His company was founded in 1814 and gained two children.” colleague called Camilla Brenchley, produces some of the finest shotguns and we specialise in creating high and rifles in the world. Nigel Sharp (M 1967-72) has performance cultures in organisations. been working the past five years We are differentiated by the fact that Paul Manser (DB 1974-79) is currently as a freelance marine journalist and we understand clearly the important travelling and sent us this photograph photographer, and has had articles elements that go to make up an from the mountains of Vietnam. published in a dozen different nautical organisation’s culture and how they magazines. He has also had three create a climate, or what it feels like books published: Dunkirk Little Ships; to work there, and how that in turn Troubled Waters: Leisure Boating and feeds into performance. Most industrial the Second World War; A History of leaders and managers believe that St Mawes Sailing Club, which are all Organisational Culture significantly available from Amberley Publishing and affects performance, but they do (www.amberley-books.com). not know how the linkages work. Once the linkages are clear, significant improvements can be made surprisingly Paul Blackburn (M 1967-72) quickly. Our company is called Norscat. emigrated to Canada in 1988. He You can read more at www.norscat.com.” 1980-89 worked in consulting for a global systems integrator and spent time in Peter Hughes (Staff 1956-80) Australia, US and Canada. He now Charles Manby (DB 1971-75) remains We would like to offer our lives in Alberta (near Jasper National at Goldman Sachs in an advisory congratulations to Peter and his Park, see photo) and is married to capacity and has recently chaired the wife Iris on their Diamond Wedding Josemee who he met while working £100m campaign for Cancer Research Anniversary. According to Peter, their in Seychelles. They have two boys, UK to help build The Francis Crick marriage was quite a whirlwind: 2nd Thomas and Daniel. Institute. In 2017, he and Nicky are sailing from Antigua to Auckland in a Sept 1956 – demobbed; 8th Sept – late Gap Year. married; 20th Sept. 0.75am – first lesson.

Simon Gillis (SH 1972-77) captained the team that won the ‘Gold Cup’, John Healey (Ch 1975-80) is Britain’s premier bridge event. He was Professor of Forest Sciences at Bangor part of an international team, which University and Chair of the Professional he says made it a lot of fun. He went and Educational Standards Committee on to say: “I am Scottish, Zia Pakistani of the Institute of Chartered Foresters. (UK passport but plays for USA), Tom More details at https://www.bangor. Hanlon Irish, Espen Erichsen, once ac.uk/senrgy/staff/healey.php.en Giles Wood (O 1969-74) is an Norwegian but now British playing occasional writer and painter and now for England, and Boye Brogeland broadcaster. He is a contributor to and Espen Lindqvist both Norwegian Channel Four’s Gogglebox. Much to the playing for Norway. Boye is particularly Will Sillar (O 1977-81) wrote to say: frustration of his Spectator agony aunt noteworthy as he is the man who has “After ten years in Cheshire we’ve seen wife Mary Killen (not to be confused cleaned up the game from cheating. the light and moved to Shropshire; with Mary Kenny), his writings and (Google Boye Brogeland for plenty we now live near Longden at the paintings have a rarity value. A of articles)”. foot of the Long Mynd. We had long self-proclaimed natural philosopher, thought of living here, and it seemed he lives in rural Wiltshire on a one- a natural time to move: daughter acre plot surrounded by intensively Adelaide started at The Grove in farmed prairies and is in the process of September, making it three generations rewilding his own land. of Salopian Sillars since 1954. It’s been great to get to know the School again 40 years on; much has changed, but it’s still unnerving to meet Mark Turner in the same office where Eric Anderson interviewed me in February 1977. Since Shrewsbury days, I’ve been to university twice and been a teacher, an engineer, a management consultant, entrepreneur and now James Horne (S 1972-78) is currently property investor. I’m currently Chair Chairman of James Purdey & Sons of Governors at Terra Nova (something Limited and his two predecessors are in of a wrench as a Moor Park boy) and the picture with him. They are all Old nosing gently back into life in and Salopians. James is in the centre. On around Shrewsbury.” 64 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

“I have just successfully concluded the UK housing crisis by promoting Ben Wright (S 1980-81) tells us: “I MBA course which I studied on a strategic land for open market and am in my twelfth year of my third full-time basis at the University of affordable housing, schools and other career, and my twelfth year at The Wolverhampton with students from associated infrastructure. I am the Lawrenceville School in Lawrenceville, all around the world. I will also be Strategic Land Director and have a team New Jersey, where I serve as a Master seeking a CMI L7 Diploma in Strategic of engineers and planning consultants of Math, the Housemaster of Cleve Management and Leadership as a working on large complex brownfield House, and the Director of Rowing and result of my work. These qualifications and greenfield projects.” More info can Boys’ Rowing Coach. I spent ten years complement a number of professional be found at www.imland.co.uk and on active duty as a US Marine Officer and managerial qualifications I already recent Telegraph article http://www. (1985-94 and 2004-05), and ten years in have, including being a Chartered telegraph.co.uk/business/2016/09/22/ business (‘94-’04). I am happily married Surveyor. Prior to that, I was leading im-properties-launches-134bn-land- to my wife of 17 years, Rebecca, and the property services of a North Wales division-for-hard-to-build-sit/ we have four children, Sarah (26), County Council which has had a major schools building programme and James (24), George (13), and Marion Robert Smith (I 1984-89) wrote to say: regeneration initiatives.” (10). I see Mark Yale (S 1976-81) once “I am married to my wonderful wife, or twice a year.” Lucie, and have three more beautiful Matthew Kimpton-Smith (O 1980- girls in my life – daughters Izzie (11) Warwick Hawkins MBE (S 1978-83) 85) and Jody Wainwright (O 1990- and Elllie (9), and Cocker Spaniel, has completed a 28-year civil service 95) took part in a charity cycle ride Cookie (2 and a bit). I trained as an career and founded his own social across South Africa, which raised £190k accountant many years ago and am enterprise, Faith in Society, designed to between 14 riders. Jodie also thought currently CFO at Neptune Investment build bridges between faith groups and people might want to know that Management. All of the above keeping civil society. Matthew has had a serious heart attack, me fairly busy but finding time to ride but is now recovering. a bike quite a lot in my spare time too, doing sportives and tours to the Alps Robin Trimby (Staff 1958-83) and Pyrenees.” volunteers at Powys Castle once a week Simon Frew (PH 1982-87) moved to and is a Governor at the local primary Cyprus in August 2016 to take on a role school. He only recently finished as a Bank Consultant living in the Hilton 1990-99 managing Shropshire County Cricket’s in Nicosia. Read www.sifrew.com to learn what that is like. U21 Development Squad. Robin’s Anthony Bowen (Staff 1967-90) tells wife, Catherine, has recently published us: “On 26th November I shall become a novel inspired by her courtroom Andrew Auster (Director of Music (I hope) a Doctor of Philosophy of and Independent Monitoring Board 1982-89) wrote in to say: “It has been the University of Cambridge. This experiences. Her heroine, ‘Josie’, is a a great pleasure working closely with degree has been awarded me for respectable middle class woman who, Alister Bartholomew at Shrewsbury in published work on the ancient Greek in a state of panic, commits a serious the 1980s coaching rugby sides ... and playwright Aeschylus: specifically, for motoring offence whilst trying to protect more recently in founding two schools two works, one a commentary on herself and ends up in prison. (‘Josie’ is in Kazakhstan. In 2008 Haileybury Choephori (Libation-bearers) written available on Amazon). Almaty opened and in September during a sabbatical term granted 2011 Haileybury Astana opened. I me by the School in 1986 and the Robin’s son Patrick Trimby (O 1985- was honoured to be the Founding other, more substantial, an edition 90) has been working at the University Headmaster of both schools, whilst with introduction, translation and of Sydney for the last few years but is Alister, having been Project Director, commentary on Supplices (Suppliant returning to the UK for his wife to take became Chairman of Governors. Alister Women) published in 2013. As a career up a post at Leeds University. Patrick is is currently Acting Headmaster in Astana move it is a little late (I’m still teaching internationally renowned for his work whilst the School seeks to appoint and writing, however). But it’s fun.” in Microscopy. another Head. In recent years Alister has also been the Chief Executive Officer for the five Rob Yorke (R 1980-84), a rural Tenby International Schools in Malaysia. Johnny Pitt (S 1985-90) Sent us a chartered surveyor and commentator, For almost the last three years I have picture of what he looks like nearly 25 is busy hosting talks and conversations had the privilege of being the Campus years later… and gave us the following around environmental matters focussed Principal of Tenby in Kuala Lumpur, update: on the UK countryside as it adapts to which has over 2,000 pupils from the “Life is good, increasing age aside! I life outside the EU. 2016 was his fifth age of 3 to 18 years. I am now back in have two wonderful boys, Josh (9) and year of proposing and chairing debates the family home in Cheltenham, and Jonty (7), and live in West London. at Hay Literary Festival with more to submitting, for the fourth time in just Both boys are keen sportsmen. My come at other events. over a year, an application for the Aston main business, Launch PR, an ideas-led www.robyorke.co.uk Villa Manager’s position ... Floreat Alister PR agency I founded in 2001. We’re ...Floreat Salopia ...and Up the Villa! now one of the UK’s leading mid-size Charlie Adlard (Rb 1979-84) independent PR agencies, with clients See Arts Round-up on page 68. ranging from businesses like BP to Jonathan Dyke (SH 1984-89) tells eBay. More can be found at us: “I have been busy setting up a new www.launchpr.co.uk. Anthony Bamford (Rb 1980-85) says: venture called IM Land to help solve Last year, I also founded a new venture OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 65 and business called The Creative son, Jan, are dividing our time between no less) call Muddy Boots. We have Shootout (www.creativeshootout) Krakow and the Seychelles. (Picture supplied Waitrose and Ocado for the which is fast becoming one of the most taken on our beach in the Seychelles last five years and are now opening talked about creative awards in the below.) Running one business in the our own meat shops in London. UK (a bit like the X Factor, but for the West Midlands and another in South All the products are made by us at creative industry). Poland from the Seychelles is not easy... our little factory in Leyton.” (http:// but it’s doing wonders for my tan and muddybootsfoods.co.uk/) golf handicap! Matthew Howse (R 1993-98) is a Nick Lucas (R 1992-97) writes: “Only partner at Arthur Cox Solicitors in one bit of news but the best ever. I Belfast, and has two young children, became a father at the start of the year Joseph (4) and Annabel (2). to a little girl called Eveleigh Mesagno- Lucas. Born in L.A. on 3rd January 2016 Philip Morris (SH 1993-98) says: at 6.43 a.m. weighing 6 lbs 12.”

James Heaven (I 1986-91) was married to Deborah Horton on 8th July 2016 at Holy Trinity Church, Salcombe, Devon. Between them, they have five wonderful children from previous marriages, and have decided that that is quite enough. They plan is to live happily ever after by the sea in Salcombe. “My family actually have a long history with Shrewsbury School. My dad (Peter Morris) taught there from the early ‘80s and was housemaster of Churchill’s for more than a decade. My sisters and I lived on-site for more than 15 years, firstly in MaryCourt which the Schutzer-Weissmans later moved into, then Churchill’s, then Tudor Court. My mum is still a part-time relief matron in the School (Marilyn Morris). I studied Japanese and Spanish at Francois Boissiere (I 1991-94) Cardiff University and went on to study writes to announce the birth of his son and live in both Tokyo and Northern Frederick Henryk Boissiere on 5th June Japan, returning to UK to do a Masters 2016 in Edinburgh. in Japanese at Sheffield. I worked in video games for a number of years and Jody Wainwright (O 1990-95) - am now working for Apple. I married see Matthew Kimpton-Smith my wife Joanne in March 2015 and our (O 1980-85) baby boy, Finley Thomas Morris, was born in September. Richard Horton (S 1991-96) said: “I live in the Bahamas and we Jeremy Gladwin (Staff 1981-99) are bracing ourselves for Hurricane writes: “I am the Headmaster of Matthew right now. I hope to get a Phil Wood (M 1992-97), Treasurer of Bishop’s Stortford College and was at chance to send more later!” the Sabrina Club, married Katherine the HMC Conference at Stratford upon Holloway on 17th September 2016 in Avon where I found myself as the Granada, Spain. former teacher at Shrewsbury of three Richard Shropshire (I 1991-97) wrote current HMC Heads: Mark Lascelles (SH to say: Phil’s a big geeky Star Wars 1982-87), David Craig (Ch 1980-85) and fan and his first dance involved him Chris Hutchinson (O 1979-84). dressed as Darth Vader and Kathryn dressed as a Storm Trooper, surrounded Matthew Barnard (S 1994-97) tells us: by a professional troupe of Storm “Life has changed quite considerably Trooper dancers (the professional over the past few years. My wife and Storm Trooper dancers were in the final I now have a one and a half year old of Britain’s Got Talent). daughter who is both wonderful and Tom Leach (Ch 1991-96) wrote to exhausting. We spend our time trying say: “Since 29th February, I have been Roland Ballard (Rt 1993-98) says: to savour and survive her. engaged to my fiancée, Paulina Remi- “I run a meat company with my We have a beautiful home on the Michalska. We and our seven-year-old wife Miranda (an Old Mortionian shore of a lake in Michigan and spend 66 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

much of our time either in or on the traverses rough terrain in the mountains water. I work at Ford Motor Company, above Vancouver, and the inaugural David Simpson (I 1997-2002) See having recently graduated from the Whistler Alpine Meadows race which Arts Round-up on page 68. University of Michigan Ross School boasted over 3,400m of elevation of Business. Lunch breaks are spent gain. Neither was as tough as ‘the running through the sprawling yet Tucks’ in my memory. In the winter Peter Edmonds (Rb 1998-2002) manicured Ford grounds or fixing / Tracie and I are avid backcountry ski married Georgia Mann on 22nd restoring whichever old car (classic?) I tourers, exploring the Coast Range of October 22nd at Holy Ghost Church, have limped to work that day. All being BC and the northern Cascades at every Basingstoke. They went to the Maldives well next year, I’ll be back for the Old opportunity we get. We’re saving up for for their honeymoon. Salopian race again and look forward some land to the north to build a small to catching up with old friends.” cabin on, and have no plans to leave British Columbia at all.” Tim Montgomery (Rb 1998-99) started out at KPMG in Leeds and then made the big move over to be with his girlfriend, Amy, in Toronto where they now live with their miniature schnauzer called Difa. He has recently been promoted to a Senior Manager at KPMG. He got down on one knee and is due to get married in Mexico in 2017.

2000-2016 Nick Birkett (S 1998-2003) says: “Having established and run a chain of William Hepworth (R 1995-2000) burrito bars in London called Poncho 8 wrote to say: “My wife Marie and I had a (www.poncho8.com), I have recently baby daughter, Lily Josephine Hepworth, opened a new restaurant in London born on 2nd March this year”. called Mr Bao (www.mrbao.co.uk). Only a few months since opening Dan Biggins (PH 1996-01) – see we’ve been included in the Waitrose Steve Biggins (Staff 2009-15) Good Food Guide and have been described by Timeout as the “Lightest, Henry Clive (Rt 1997-2002) recently Fluffiest Buns in London”. Ed Cunynghame (S 1996-2001) completed a nine-year commission with has relocated to Kenya and has met the Army Air Corps and has just joined up with Ed Hewitt (Rt 1998-03). He Aldi on their graduate management is working with a big veg, herb and scheme with the aim of becoming an flower grower, exporting produce back Area Manager. He currently lives in to Europe. He is playing cricket out Twickenham with his wife Melissa and there and is always keen to meet up two cocker spaniels. with any fellow Salopian expats. Ollie Maitland (I 1997-2002) Aidan Whytock (SH 1996-2001) and his wife, Katia, have had a See Arts Round-up on page 68. baby girl, Iva Alice Maitland on 21st August 2016 and are now moving Andrew Lyness (Rb 1996-2002) says: to Forest Gate, E7 in London. He is “After many years earning my doctorate also advancing his career in the tech and teaching university classes in the industry with the acqusition of Byng by US, I’m now living in North Vancouver, pan-European tech company, Inviqa. British Columbia. In September I He is heading up their Innovation married Tracie, a local Canadian, at a Practice there. camping wedding near Ucluelet on the remote west coast of Vancouver Island. Lots of friends and family made very long journeys for the occasion, including two Old Salopians who managed to see bears, orcas, and catch themselves a wild salmon for dinner. Last year I took up mountain running again, having not run competitively since my cross-country days in the RSSH back in 2001. This summer I finished two 50km races, the notorious ‘North Shore Knee Knacker’ which OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 67

David Fraser (1999-2004) has worked that year too. I have graduated this at Help for Heroes for four years and is September with a First Class degree and Head of Communications. distinctions in nearly all of my exams and have now accepted a place to Rob Leigh-Bramwell (R 1999-2004) study at the Doctoral Training Centre in now runs a new family business and Oxford on the Systems Biology course. they have invented a new type of It is a prestigious placement funded by Weather Clock which went on sale this the EPSRC and I am very happy to be year. It’s a sort of re-invented barometer staying in Oxford at St John’s.” and is to be stocked in Liberty. website: www.bramwellbrown.com Mark Lawley (S 2008-13) has graduated with First Class honours from Joshua Sasse (G 2001-04) has become Jesus College, Oxford, in Psychology engaged to Kylie Minogue. and Linguistics.

Ben Alderson (I 2000-05) married his Rob Cross (S 2008-13) See Arts wife Charlotte in July 2016. The civil Round-up on page 68. ceremony took place near Charlotte’s family home in Aigle, Switzerland Steve Biggins (Staff 2009-15) retired with the blessing of the marriage Tristan Bland (G 2006-11) and as Head of Football 18 months ago taking place in Morville, Shropshire. Helena Smye (MSH 2009-11) are but still runs the School U14s’ football Ben and Charlotte were thrilled to be both delighted to announce their recent programme and coaches the School surrounded by friends and family and engagement. The wedding will take U14As. This has been a particularly a small army of Old Salopians on their place in June 2018 at St Mary’s Church, big day, before heading off to Italy on Selly Oak, Birmingham. bumper year, with 101 boys signing up their honeymoon. for football during Foundation Fortnight. Steve’s son Dan Biggins (PH 1996- Stefan Hindmarsh (Ch 2006-11) 2001) is now the Deputy Headmaster Arthur Ford (G 2001-06) married writes: “Having spent five years as a at Adams’ Grammar School in Lucy Luo at Chiswick House and student all over the North East and Newport and has three girls, all under Gardens on 9th July 2016. The best Highlands of Scotland, I am graduating four years old. man and three ushers were Old in June with an MBChB degree in Salopians. Lucy is an account handler Medicine from the University of Steve’s daughter Becki studied Jazz for a maritime insurance firm, while Aberdeen. From August, I will be at Leeds College of Music and after Arthur is training to become a teacher working as a junior doctor based in and working for a time at the School with of German and French. around the city of Glasgow with the John Moore took her PGCE. She is now view to eventually becoming a General a full time professional singer and gave Practitioner.” a concert at Shrewsbury School on 5th November. She was also one of the guest judges of this year’s House Singing Marianne Shawe-Taylor (MSH 2009- Competition. Becki has one son, Archie 11) tells us: On the 23rd April 2017 I (19 months) and another on the way. will be running the London Marathon in aid of Worldwide Cancer Research. Any donation you could spare, no Lettie Tay (MSH 2013-15) matter how large or small, would be Congratulations to Lettie on being hugely appreciated. https://www. one of the winning pair in the justgiving.com/fundraising/BigMaz University Shield at the British Rowing Championships. Guy Leslie (R 2007-12) was called up to play for Colombia Oscar Dickins (R 2000-15) has National Men’s Team in the South been selected as a participant on American Championship in October. International Citizen Service, a Frank Collings (SH 2005-10) writes: Unfortunately they lost to Argentina programme that brings young people “I am currently building a business in the first round, although Guy from different countries together to that designs noise cancellation devices scored the highest number of runs fight poverty. In January, he will be for households under flightpaths. for Colombia and also took his first travelling to West Kenya and will These will be used in the Heathrow/ international wicket. Colombia then be spending three months living Hounslow area and we are currently lost to Peru in their second match and with a local family and involved raising around £400k to pay for didn’t progress. in a community work project run engineers and software developers. by Balloon Ventures. As part of his The company that I started was lucky Anna Olerinyova (MSH 2011-13) fundraising for the trip, Oscar ran enough to be part of Entrepreneur tells us: “I started at St John’s College, the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge in First, a start-up incubator and business Oxford reading Biomedical Sciences in October with two other Salopians accelerator.” 2013 and was awarded the Gibbs Prize (see OS Hunt report on page 77). (for highest marks achieved in exams) 68 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Old Salopian Arts

Old Salopian Open Art Exhibition

The Old Salopian Art Exhibition, which ran from 1st – 15th October 2016 in the Art Building at the Schools, was full of Salopian talent. The private viewing was a lively affair and well attended and a number of the guests at Old Salopian Day benefited from the opportunity to view the work whilst they were visiting. The artists donated a proportion of their sales to the Art Bursary fund, to enable talented students of the future to benefit from the experience of studying at Shrewsbury.

The exhibition was organised by Max the curator of the Sitwell collections, Darryl Walker (DB 1964-68) studied Baccanello (Rt 2001-06), a London museum and galleries at Renishaw Hall. Fine Art Painting at Canterbury College based artist focused on the human and of Art and later won the David Murray Val Pitchford, wife of Old Salopian figurative arts and by Jamie Monro Prize for landscape held at the Royal (John Pitchford DB 1948-54), (Ch 1975-79), also London based and Academy. His tutor was Ian Dury, later combining his passion for oil painting worked in design for many years before of Ian Dury and the Blockheads. Darryl with his work as head chef in a popular achieving her ultimate aim to become has travelled extensively and always City restaurant. tries to capture in paint the people and Max was classically trained at Charles places he sees. Cecil Studios in Florence, where he Kit Oates (PH 2000-05) is a London studied the human anatomy and based portrait and documentary found his inspiration drawing from life photographer, with a special interest models. His dynamic and powerful in outliers and groups disenfranchised figure drawings capture both a classical from mainstream society. Kit’s work has and contemporary feel and his work been published in The Guardian, The has been widely exhibited throughout Observer, FT magazine and The Sunday the UK, Europe and America. Telegraph. Jamie is an artist whose paintings Jose Hamilton Reid (Rt 2005-10) explore the influence of humanity on based his pieces on original and the world. He attended Chelsea School previously unseen negatives from the of Art before gaining a First in English Collection of William Hamilton Reid, his Literature at Warwick University and Great Grandfather. many of his canvasses both index the literature he read during his studies and Georgina Walton (MSH 2008-10) is reflect the rural idyll he has lived and based in London working as a Visual travelled in. Designer for Harrods as well as a Other exhibitors were: freelance practising artist. She works in a range of different media, focusing on Timothy Morgan-Owen (I 1974-79), a full time painter, after extensive study composition, structure and architecture. a freelance artist of portraits, landscapes with Robin Child. She now works daily and heraldry, who was for eleven years in her Malvern studio. Exhibitors’ names appear in red type. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 69

Old Salopian Arts EVENTS – Dates for your Diary

Wednesday 11th January 2017 at 7.00 pm. A Celebration of Epiphany at St Mary-le-Bow in the City of London. With a choir Conducted by Patrick Craig (Ch 1982-87) and Richard Eteson (G 1989-93), the service will be led by The Revd Gavin Williams , former Chaplain at Shrewsbury School and will consist of music and readings on the subject of Epiphany. The choir will be made up of Old Salopians, both professional and amateur, and there will be a gathering in a local hostelry after the service. Patrick Craig is a member of the Tallis Scholars and St Paul’s Cathedral Choir and Richard Eteson is a former member of the Swingle Singers, a freelance tenor and sings regularly in London churches (The Temple Church, St Bride’s Fleet Street), consort groups (The Brabant Ensemble / Tonus Peregrinus) and session choirs (London Voices / The Heritage Orchestra).

Thursday 23rd February 2017 – Evensong at Westminster Abbey at 5.00 pm, to be followed by a tour of the Abbey. This event is organised by The Revd Gavin Williams , former member of staff and currently Chaplain at Westminster School. After the tour there will be a drinks reception in the Camden Room in Little Dean’s Yard from 7.00-8.00 pm. Numbers are limited. Please contact Janet Scholes ([email protected]) to book your place. Sunday 12th March 2017 – Cadogan Hall, London – A joint concert between Shrewsbury School Symphony Orchestra and Old Salopians. John Moore, Alex Mason and Fergus Macleod (Rt 2001-06) will conduct an exciting programme of orchestral and choral work. Further details will follow in the New Year. Old Salopians wishing to join the orchestra and choir are warmly welcome and should contact Henry Southern (henry. [email protected]) 24th May 2017 at 6.30pm – A Private View of Canaletto paintings and a talk by Desmond Shawe Taylor (I 1968-73), Surveyor of the Queen’s Pictures at the Queen’s Gallery Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1A.

Salopian families, guests and friends are warmly invited to these events. Please contact Janet Scholes ([email protected]) if you are planning to attend.

Old Salopians in the Arts NEWS

has pursued his ‘true love’, which was taking shape that will reach out to new to become a cartoonist, specifically for audiences and raise the profile and the comic books. Charlie said: understanding of the importance of “After becoming a professional in comics for education, inspiration and the early nineties I worked on many literacy.” [primarily US] comics - books such Charlie will hold the post for two years, as The X-Files, X-Men, Superman, starting February 2017. Batman, Mars Attacks etc... but my career/life changed markedly back in 2004 when I started work on a book with writer Robert Kirkman called The Walking Dead. Since then the book has spawned an international hit TV show and game and become a world wide phenomenon. I’m currently working on issue 162 and it’s still going strong.” Julie Tait, director of the Lakes festival, said the laureateship was “a really It has been a busy time for many of our vital role for the comics art form. The OS who are involved in the Arts and a comics laureate isn’t just a title; we number have been in contact to let us already have a programme of events know of recent successes. Charlie Adlard (Rb 1979-84) has just been awarded the post of Comics Laureate. After leaving the School Charlie went on to Maidstone Art College and took a BA in film studies. But since then he 70 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

For the last three years, Rob Cross (S 2008-13) has sung with Semi-Toned, the University of Exeter’s all male a cappella group. From November to December 2016, BBC 2 broadcast ‘The Choir: Gareth Malone’s Best in Britain’. The show was a search to find Britain’s most entertaining amateur choir, and from almost a thousand groups that applied, Rob’s a cappella group Semi-Toned were crowned as winners. Missed the show? Check them out on Spotify and Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/semitoned/?fref=ts

Aidan Whytock (SH 1996-2001) has just directed a feature film that is currently in cinemas in South Africa. He also won the overall Mercedes Benz Award at the Mercedes Benz International Fashion David Simpson (I 1997-2002) is a Comedy Producer Film Festival, for his working for Tiger Aspect Productions. He recently produced film The Choice. a radio series called Big Country written by comedian Patrick The Mercedes-Benz Kielty and starring Conleth Hill from Game of Thrones, and Award is presented Pauline McLynn from Father Ted. He was also Executive “in recognition of Producer this year on Man Like Mobeen, a new comedy an uncompromising for BBC 3, and won the Broadcast Digital Award this year pursuit of quality, for Best Scripted Online Short for Spencer Jones’ Christmas, passionate design which aired on Sky Arts on Christmas Day last year. and creative David is second from right in the photo above. innovation.”

Simon Edmondson (SH 1969-73) is a very successful contemporary artist, who has exhibited across Europe and the United States. He studied for his degree in Fine Arts, before taking an MA in Painting at Chelsea College of Art and then an M.F.A in Painting at Syracuse University in New York. He wrote to tell us about his recent exhibitions: “I have spent my entire life painting and at Shrewsbury was taught by John Alford, whose work I still admire.” OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 71

Sabrina

150th Anniversary of Royal of the Mike Partridge and Steve winning their event at Marlow Regatta, Shrewsbury School Boat Club Fox crews. Mike, who now lives in now, of course, held at Dorney Lake. The celebration of the 150th Australia, was over and it proved to There they got into the final and, Anniversary of the RSSBC got off to a be a great opportunity to gather his after lying in fourth position at half tremendous start with the party that and Steve’s crews together. About 75 way they managed to row down all was held at the School Boat House people attended and a good time was the opposition and win by about two on the 7th May. As this article goes to had by all. thirds of a length. This crew has been press there are less than two weeks Sabrina rowing an inspiration. to go before the celebration dinner 2016 will go down in the annals as The big question is what will happen on board the Silver Sturgeon takes one of the most significant in Sabrina’s next to the Shrewsbury based squad. place. As it transpires, 150 people have rowing history. The VIII which Sadly, their excellent and supportive signed up for the dinner, which has originally formed in the autumn of coach, Paul Manser has gone on a a certain symmetry. It is anticipated 2014, having just failed to qualify to well-deserved sabbatical and not all that everyone who comes will have a compete at Henley in 2015, succeeded the crew has returned to row for the memorable evening. This event will be in doing so this year. They got to row new season. Phil Wood has been the reported in due course. in the Thames Cup. This is a first for main organiser of the crew and is in As well as these one-off celebratory the Club and should not be under- the process of trying to set things up events, there was the usual party on rated bearing in mind the quality of for 2017. Henley Saturday. This was attended the crews taking part in this event. Anyone who lives in the Shrewsbury by about 200 Sabrina members and Although the crew was beaten in the area who would like to join this their partners. This party has been held first round by an under twenty-three squad should get in touch with Phil for many years but seems to get more crew from China, they rowed very well whose email address is philip.wood@ popular as the years go by. If you plan and deserved huge congratulations. It to come to Henley on the Saturday next would not be a surprise to see some stantonralph.co.uk. year, do come to the party if you don’t of the Chinese crew taking part in the Our president, Miles Preston is looking already plan to do so. It is a marvellous Tokyo Olympics in four years’ time. into the possibility of having a small opportunity to meet up with people The average height of the crew (theirs Sabrina squad based in London. On you may not have seen for ages. not ours!) was six foot three and their 8th October, he met with Ian Morton There was also a row past by the average weight fifteen stone. Their and Peter Hunter at The Blue Boat pub victorious 1961 Princess Elizabeth crew stroke was fifteen stone twelve. on Fulham Reach near Hammersmith during the tea interval on Although qualifying for Henley was Bridge. A possible base for the squad Henley Saturday. the chief objective of the crew for the has been found in the form of the On Henley Friday there was a reunion season, their greatest achievement was newly constituted Fulham Reach Boat Club. There are excellent facilities available there and a large selection of practically new boats. Other Sabrina members have expressed interest in this project including Charles Lowe, Sir Stephen Wright, Andrew Eddy, Jonny Moulsdale and Victor Temple. If this is something that might interest you, please email Miles at miles. [email protected]. While it may not be easy to achieve, Sabrina and the School benefit from having people rowing regularly for the Club, whether based in 1961 crew Shrewsbury or elsewhere. Support of RSSBC Sabrina does everything it can to provide moral and financial support to RSSBC. The members of the Club want to help the School have all the success possible. As well as attending head of the river races and regattas in which School and Sabrina crews are taking part -which members are encouraged to do as they provide enormous psychological support- this year, thanks to the generosity of Neil and Andrew Racz, two pairs have been bought for the School squad. On top of that, thanks to the donations made to Miles Preston’s Vogalonga appeal and friends of the late Bill Grant, a double scull was bought for the girls squad ( which was named Bill Grant at a ceremony on the 1st October) and in January a new Empacher VIII will be delivered to the School paid for by Jonathan Beeston. Bearing in mind the cost of these boats, this represents nearly £70,000 which has been donated to RSSBC this year. This will not be repeated in the coming year but efforts are now turning to building up the new RSSBC Scholarships. This scheme is being masterminded by the Club’s captain, Nick Randall, working with the Foundation and the School. If you are interested in helping Nick to raise the funds needed, please email him at [email protected]. 72 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Bill Grant Boat Naming Ceremony For eleven years, a group of us who rowed together from School House, plus an honorary Churchillian, have been supporting the 1st VIII on the Thursday of Henley Royal Regatta. Everyone contributes to a picnic under the old oak in Green’s Field, which has become a happy family event. When Bill (“Henley isn’t Henley without Pimms!”) died early in 2015, we agreed that opening a charitable account in his name would be a way to plan for a fitting memorial and to establish a running fund. Miles Preston’s Volalonga appeal to buy a new Hudson for the Girls’ Squad was something that we knew would have his enthusiastic support and our contribution was recognised by the double scull being named ‘Bill Grant’. And it was wonderful that Dr Jenny Grant and their daughter, Catherine, were there to do the honours for the beautifully prepared boat and to hear tributes from Charlie Bloom, Tony Lorrimer and Jamie Elwin on the Boat House terrace before the Sabrina Club AGM on 1st October.

Blast from the past

This photo is of the 1st VIII in 1968, the first year RSSBC participated in the Tideway head of the river race. As can be seen from the number on Cox Michael Kerr’s vest, they started 314 in the order. It was a good showing and they achieved the 31st fastest time - not bad for a tail end start. Others in the boat are: Charles Wright (S 63-68) (bow); Michael Farmer (Ch 63-68, (2); Miles Preston (DB 63-68) (3); Douglas Thompson (O 67-68) (4); Charles Lowe (M 63-68) (5); Christopher Buckley (I 64- 68) (6); Andrew Eddy (O 64-68) (7) and Martin Sandford (SH 63-68) (Stroke).

The boat is a wooden 3-sectional 8 built by Gerry Sturgess at the School’s boathouse workshop. The oars were also wooden, not the carbon fiber of today. We used to tow the boats to the regattas with the ‘Tallywagon’, an ‘older’ van, and sometimes the trailer would sway forcing the driver to brake! Roger Blomfield was of course our coach and I think we all learnt much about rowing from him as well as life overall. Doug Gerwin and Mike Farmer are now deceased. The rest of us are in touch with each other and most meet at Henley each year. Miles Preston - in the 3 seat - is the current President of Sabrina. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 73

50 YEARS AGO – A NAUTICAL ADVENTURE REMEMBERED On the morning of the 24th August 1966, soon after England last won the World Cup, a racing coastal four set off from the beach at Folkestone, heading in the direction of France.

In the boat: Bow Ian Morton (SH 62-67), 2 Troupe (King’s Canterbury), 3 John Richards (SH 61-66), Stroke Robert Parry (SH 62-67), Cox Alan Painter (R 62-66)

he crew was made up of three neither England nor France can be On their arrival they were presented Toarsmen and a cox from seen. They had not quite beaten the with a prize; a cheque for £100 from a Shrewsbury School together with a record time set by a crew from the representative of Sir Billy Butlin, who fifth member from The King’s School Folkestone Rowing Club a few years had rashly bet them that they would Canterbury. The boat had been earlier, but they were the youngest never complete the crossing. In 1966, borrowed from the Folkestone Rowing crew to make the crossing and 50 years this was enough money to cover their Club and the crew had spent the later that record still stands. They were expenses, including the cost of the previous week practising the transition greeted by a small crowd including the trawler. But unfortunately news of this from rowing on a river to rowing on Mayor of Boulogne and the local press. the sea. Most of that time had been prize came to the notice of the ARA, spent safely rowing parallel to who wrote to all members of the beach including a rather the crew telling them that they chaotic appearance at the were no longer eligible to row Hastings Regatta. But now in amateur competitions. They they were heading out into had accepted a financial reward the English Channel which, for rowing and their status was on that particular morning, therefore professional. The ARA looked an oasis of calm. did finally relent after proof was Five hours and 3 minutes provided that the cash prize had later the boat finally entered only covered expenses. Boulogne Harbour. The crew were wet, cold and totally For Ian Morton (SH), Robert Parry exhausted, but relieved to be (SH), John Richards (SH), Alan still afloat. The weather had Painter (R) and Robin Troup from worsened as they approached Canterbury it was a foolhardy France and the cox Alan achievement 50 years ago, that will Painter had spent the last hour Crew photo beforehand Left to right: Robert Parry, Robin Troupe, never be forgotten and will never Alan Painter, Ian Morton, John Richards frantically baling out water with be repeated. Coastal fours are The Mayor arranged a meal at a local a soup can. They had been rowing no longer allowed to enter Boulogne restaurant, before they loaded the boat non-stop for 31 miles since leaving Harbour and the Folkestone Rowing Folkestone and had survived being onto the trawler which had guided them Club from where they set off, has long almost sunk by the wash from a cross across the channel. The return journey been demolished. But Floreat Salopia, channel ferry and rowing through a to Folkestone was less strenuous, but a perilous passage in the middle of the little choppy, particularly after too much with a little help from Canterbury! channel where the tides meet and celebratory champagne. Robert Parry (SH 1962-67) 74 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Old Salopian Yacht Club

Once again the Yacht Club entered a crew for the annual Boarding Schools Sailing Association Arrow Trophy Regatta in Cowes in early October. Our largely young crew of recent leavers had a weekend of extreme variety in the weather from gale force winds and driving rain to no wind and bright sunshine. Through it all the youthful Salopian team bonded effectively but did not trouble the scorers with too many of our results.

he weekend started with a dinner produced hard driving rain and very As always we are very grateful to Tcruise to Cowes on Friday night reduced visibility; ski goggles would the Salopian Club for their generous that left time for a bonding session in have been useful if you wanted to sponsorship and are keen to hear the Pier View pub on arrival and set the look upwind - 38 knots wind speed from any Salopians who would like to tone for the weekend. was the top gust noted on the wind join next year’s crew, whatever their Saturday was forecast to be wet and instruments. experience. Drop a line to the Yacht then windy and it lived up to that Saturday night’s dinner was as enjoyable Club Secretary, Will Collins promise, but there was very little wind as ever and several crew members ([email protected]) for more details. first thing so the crew was able to get managed to keep going to the small out and hoist the kite and try a gybe or hours, upholding Salopian traditions two. The first race took nearly two hours at the after party - no names no pack to complete and whilst the Salopian drill but the first time we had seen Crew photo crew struggled a bit to get going upwind jägerbombs at the Arrow dinner table. Left to right as follows: they gained some places downwind and Sunday was forecast to be light. The 1. Eddie Gibbons (O 03-08) ended up 17th out of 24. first race started at 10.00 in a decent 2. George Edwards (S 04-09) The wind then built quite dramatically Force 3 with full rigs and the crew before the second race, which made for had a good race. By the time of the 3. Millie Dean (MSH 13-15) a very dramatic start and uncomfortable last race, though, the wind had started 4. Timothy Becker (R 77-82) upwind legs, constantly overpowered. to die and during the race it dropped 5. Hugo Morgan (R 10-15) Our crew played safe and came 16th to nothing and was very shifty so by 6. Matthias Borstell (I 05-07) but Winchester (who had won four about noon the crew was on the way out of the last seven Arrows) were back to Portsmouth having enjoyed 7. George Hall (SH 05-10) dismasted and at least three other a great weekend and determined to 8. Johnny Moulsdale (Ch 69-74) boats did not finish for various reasons compete even more strongly next year. 9. Tim Minn (S 74-79) including injuries requiring medical Despite the, at times, challenging 10. Plus James Pitt assistance. conditions our crew had a thoroughly The third and final race started in enjoyable weekend and are already taking the photo (S 79-84) the most horrendous squall which looking forward to next year’s event. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 75

Football

The two Old Salopian sides have made a stuttering start to their respective Arthurian League campaigns. The 2nd XI are set for another challenging season in the competitive 3rd Division, whilst the heady heights of the Arthur Dunn Cup final earlier this year are a distant memory for the 1st XI who have been on the end of a couple of unexpected results during their first five league fixtures. Much like the 3rd Division, the Premier Division gets stronger and more competitive every year, so the side will look to improve in all departments and launch their assault on the top/middle part of the table.

This season’s Arthur Dunn Cup run started with a and around London and our home ground is in Barnes. convincing 5-0 win over the Old Eastbournians on 29th If you are interested in playing for the Club, please contact October up at school and on Senior, which these days Richard McGarry ([email protected]) or George has to be in the best condition it has ever been. The side Blakemore ([email protected]). was in an unsympathetic mood to make the opposition’s journey to SY3 a misery. Goals from League skipper Oliver Heywood (2), Adam Parker, Roy Chaterjee and Charlie Pilkington completed the rout. It is likely that the next round will be played before Christmas and the side hopes for another home draw to give them the best possible chance on their march to the Final once again. As usual the social calendar continues to be a central part of the Club with the Christmas drinks taking place on 17th December. Social Secretary Hawkin is in the final stages of confirming the lucky venue – an email to the Club will be sent in due course. The ever-growing End of Season Dinner will be held on Friday 12th May 2017, again at the Warrington Hotel in Maida Vale. If you would like to attend either of these events, then please do let us know. As ever the Club is looking for new recruits. We have two teams playing on a weekly basis (September to April) in

OSFC Tour Review – certainly raised their game to match The Club’s coveted tour awards Prague Summer 2016 their surroundings and put in a were a hotly contested affair. performance that would surely The winner of Player of the Tour match any seen in recent times on went to 2nd XI Skipper George In a small pub just West of foreign soil, eventually running out Blakemore, whose calmness and Moorgate, London, in the summer of 6-0 victors. time on the ball was only matched 2014 an idea was mooted to bring The touring party celebrated by his ability to prop up whichever back the long lost treasure of touring emphatically that night and awoke on bar he came across. Al Hutchinson, to the Old Salopian Football Club. the Sunday morning keen to ensure winner of the 2015 TC Award, Two years later that tradition is now they rotated their full squad for the presented George Wade-Smith with well and truly knitted into the fabric second game in two days. Once the distinction this year. Although of every Salopian footballer’s social again the facilities provided by their it could have been awarded to a and sporting summer calendar. Czech opponents were of the highest number of candidates, George’s With the memories of the Club’s calibre – with Union Jack flags ability to find space and lose his Berlin Tour of 2015 now fading draped over the goal posts; a live man (in his case for over 26 hours) as quickly as George Blakemore’s scoreboard with full match clock; and was rightly recognised by the hairline, it was decided that the next they even had the surreal experience touring party. foreign destination for the Salops of singing the national anthem before It was also a great opportunity to should be Prague – “the city of a kick-off. With the heat as gruelling welcome some new members to hundred spires”. a foe as the opposition, the team the club – both Gus Watson and After a first evening getting squandered a litany of chances and Wills Briggs certainly impressing acclimatised to the local culture, the possession, to be undone by the throughout the duration of the Salops awoke on Saturday morning fitter and better rested Czechs, going Tour. So keen was young Will to to a rather stifling 32-degree wall down 3-1. Nevertheless, the team catch his new Captain’s eye, he of heat. After slapping on the ensured that the result didn’t weigh decided to take an early morning factor 50 sunscreen, the touring them down for too long, with the 10km jog, even if it meant returning party were revitalised upon arrival culmination of the culture tour being back to the hotel a phone, wallet at the first football ground – a a boat ride down the ancient Vltava and fitbit lighter (the fitbit is still pristine grass carpet, fresh from River that evening. A 5am flight back telling his computer he is doing a 20-minute soaking from the in- to London the following morning over 10,000 steps a day in Prague). built pitch sprinklers. The Salops was, remarkably, attended by all. 76 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Saracens

The Cricketer Cup 2016 the middle order with their identikit efforts of the XI selected very little went Hopefully in years to come the Saracens repertoire of non-turning off-spin right – it was just “one of those days”. will look back at the 2016 Cricketer (following in the footsteps of tens of In summary, therefore, this was a Cup as no more than a bump in the fine Salopian off-spinners before them). disappointing year. We continue to be road. After an extremely promising The rain, which had been circling all picking from a strong group of players, start away at Felsted, we crashed out day, eventually arrived after 34 overs, and the nucleus of the side should be of the competition on a damp Sunday by which point the Robins were 155-6 around for a number of years to come. evening in Dulwich in extremely and sunk. The key to prolonged success in this frustrating circumstances to the great It was therefore in good heart that competition is of course consistency, disappointment of all involved. we made the trip to Dulwich for our and that is something we continue to The performance at Felsted in the first 2nd round fixture against the Old strive for, both in performance and in round was one of the most complete Alleynians, surprise winners against selection. I hope 2017 will be the year performances by a Saracens side in the Eton Ramblers in a shortened in which we can marry both together, recent times. Despite having assembled game in round 1. Unfortunately, that as I believe the rewards will follow. a strong side, our opening fixture bore good heart did not last long. On this Finally, I would like to thank all Old all the hallmarks of a banana-skin. occasion we won the toss and batted, Salopians who continue to support Following Felsted’s failure to find an and despite losing Brydon to the first the Saracens, home and away. It truly XI to travel to Shrewsbury a few years ball of the game, and Ben Williams is appreciated, by me and the other ago, they have completely changed cheaply in the second over, the Saracens players. We hope to repay that support their approach to the competition, and, recovered well through Chapman (31) with another Cricketer Cup win before replete with recent sports scholars, and the captain (37) on a wicket that too long! including relations of Essex legends was visibly disintegrating and taking Tom Cox Nasser Hussain and Paul Grayson, and dramatic spin. However, a mid-innings encouraged by former England batsman collapse, prompted by a number of Shrewsbury Saracens v Jason Gallian (now master-in-charge somewhat unfortunate dismissals, Shrewsbury School 1st XI of cricket at the school), clearly meant which with hindsight suggested that business. They had also moved heaven this was not to be our day, meant that The Saracens turned out in their annual and earth, despite the apocalyptic the Saracens were ultimately pleased fixture against the School with many old conditions that had descended on the to reach 203 from 35 overs thanks to boys making their debuts. Having lost south east during the preceding week, the efforts of George Lewis (39) and the toss in a reduced game of 40 overs, to get the fixture on, which was greatly Will Mason (25*) down the order. In we were put in the field. The Saracens appreciated. However, it did mean the circumstances, we felt this was put a bit of early pressure on the School that the Saracens were greeted with a likely to be enough, particularly given by picking up a few early wickets somewhat green pitch, and some very the spin-focussed balance of our attack through Charlie White. Harry Adair (65) overcast conditions on which to bat and the crumbling wicket. However, and Jamie Crawley (64) batted very when we inevitably lost the toss. No cricket is a funny game, and sometimes nicely and put on a good partnership matter; after a brief boundary-laden the gods are against you! As we took to get the school to an over par score cameo from Jack Brydon (‘twas ever to the field it began to lightly rain. of 207-9. Charlie White was the pick of thus), Ben Chapman and Ed Pollock This soon became a significant issue. the bowlers with 3-34 from his 8 overs, set about the bowling as if batting at The ball became hard to grip for our well supported by the economical Joe Cheltenham College in August. In a spinners, and began to slide on rather Carrasco (1-29). remarkable record-breaking 242 run than spinning. All of a sudden, the With a team overloaded with batsmen, stand for the third wicket, the two unavailability of all but one of our usual the Saracens really fancied chasing this left-handers put on a masterclass for battery of front-line seamers became down and looked as if we were going to the doughty Saracens supporters who more of a problem, and even more so with Ollie Westbury (75) and Will Cook had travelled to watch. Ben carried when he pulled up lame in his run-up (29) going very well to get us to 105-2 his bat to reach his second Cricketer through the damp outfield! In the light and requiring a run a ball for victory. Cup hundred, finishing on 123*in a of the short straight boundaries, and the Sadly, a trademark Saracens middle superb innings that comprised fifteen lack of seam options, the score posted order collapse ensued and we ended up withering boundaries and one huge six suddenly appeared inadequate, and we falling 20 runs short with George Panayi that removed a number of tiles from the knew we were in a game. In the end, and George Newton the pick of the roof of the pavilion; and his innings was despite the keen efforts of Will Mason School bowlers. at least matched by Ed’s, who, scoring (2-44), pressed unexpectedly into service Saracens XI: freely all around the wicket, raced to 131 with the ball, and a typically spirited Ollie Westbury, Bertie Milligan- from 113 balls, including thirteen 4s and performance in the field, we were left Manby, Will Cook, Joe Carrasco, Jamie three 6s, before being dismissed shortly to rue an early dropped catch, as one Humes, Charlie White, Freddie Adair, before the end of the innings. Thanks to of the Dulwich openers ran amok, Ollie Brown, Charlie Robinson, Jonty the outstanding efforts of those two, and smashing his way to a magnificent Newbould, George Lewis some clean hitting from Alasdair Pollock, century, which included at least 8 big George Lewis the Saracens posted a massive 329-4 straight sixes, leading the Alleynians from 50 overs. to victory by 3 wickets with 7 balls to This was always likely to prove too spare. It was in truth an innings that Shrewsbury Saracens vs many for Felsted, and so it proved. deserved to win any game. However, School 2nd XI Despite an initial assault on Alasdair that did not negate the huge sense of As a break with tradition over the past Pollock’s opening spell, the Robins were disappointment felt by all involved at the few years of the Saracens fixture against held in check by a superb display of circumstances surrounding the defeat, the School, this year the teams were seam bowling from Mike Barnard at the which was compounded when Dulwich welcomed at the Schools with blue other end (0-14 from 7 overs), which were bowled out for 67 in the following skies. A stronger 2nd XI team than built the platform for the Lewis brothers, round away at Malvern. On reflection previous years meant the game was to George and Henry, to run through it was a day where notwithstanding the be highly competitive. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 77

As tradition, the Saracens batted first Jamie Humes, Harry Flowers, Freddie Bowling first the Saracens reduced on flat looking pitch. The Saracens Earlam, Charlie Kidson and James the Stragglers to 135 all out. Kidson, started well, with both Jamie Bird Aston. This was combined with the Earlam and Mason were outstanding and Will Mason taking advantage of key ingredient of ‘senior pros’, who with the ball but were backed up by a excellent batting conditions. However, between them boast an extraordinary rejuvenated fielding effort. We were able the School soon started making inroads wealth of tour experience. to chase this down with minimal fuss and it wasn’t long before the wicket of As is tradition the first game of tour and the day was ours. Bird fell, followed swiftly by Mason. was on the Monday with the first of The usual layout of the Thursday is a The Saracens middle order failed to 2 consecutive one day games against round robin T20 tournament between make any significant contribution to North Devon CC. The tour got off to the Saracens, the Brasenose Strollers and the scoreboard and the game was a shaky start when the Saracens lost North Devon. Due to bad weather the finely poised at 120-5. However, a few three early wickets on a magnificent day was reduced and it was decided dropped catches saw the Saracens build pitch, to a very strong North Devon CC that we would play the Strollers for the up some momentum. Notable efforts side, boasting Craig & Jamie Overton with the bat were made by Henry right to play North Devon in the final. (Somerset CCC) and two South African The picturesque Instow cricket ground Blofield (64) and Steve Barnard (26*) pros. However, Steve Barnard and had not been a happy hunting ground batting at 8 and 10 respectively. A score George Lewis seemed to steady the all week and sadly that trend continued. of 237 was made and we had a good ship for the Saracens, before the latter The Strollers hit an impressive 195-7 in game on our hands. fell just short of 50. Steve, however, 20 overs. The Saracens were off to a Charlie White and Paddy Lynch-Staunton had other ideas, and went on to score a magnificent 106, to take the Saracens good start but once again struggled in opened the bowling, consistently the middle overs and fell 30 short. achieving good line and length, leaving to an under par 229. A couple of early the School struggling to get the runs wickets from Will Mason gave the The Saracens Tour continues to go ticking. Things were looking ominous. Saracens hope, but North Devon’s two from strength to strength and is now However, it was the spells of Blofield South African overseas players played becoming well known as a genuinely and Matthew Gregson where the real brilliantly, to carry them to victory with enjoyable, if not unique, week in the damage was dealt and the game was over 10 overs to spare, and several calendar year. Long may that continue. put beyond reach for the School, with wickets in hand. Although it was a Please get in touch for details on the Gregson taking 3-14. An honourable disappointing start to the tour, there 2017 tour next August. mention must also go here to James were some positives to be taken out of The Tourists of 2016 were: Barlow and James Ashton, who bowled it, notably Steve’s knock, and a good Ben Chapman (Rt 95-00), Tom Chapman consistently without reward. fielding display from all. (SH 87-92), Richard Mackay (S 95-00), The Saracens fielded first on the second The School were all out for 131, Rob Hillman (M 94-99), Nick Graham, day. Morale was somewhat low at the however the game was tighter than the Henry Lewis (I 07-12), Steve Barnard (Rb start of the day - we were staring down score suggests. All in all, the game was 09-11), George Thomason (G 06-11), played in excellent spirit with both sides the barrel of bowling on a flat track against an immense batting line up. Will Mason (S 07-12), James Kidson (O enjoying a few beers after the game. We 03-08), Charlie Kidson (G 09-14), Sam look forward to next year’s rematch. Sadly, things went to forecast and North Devon powered to 345-6 in 50 with Welti (I 07-12), James Aston (R 07-12), The Saracens XI: Jamie Bird, James Craig Overton blasting a fine century. George Lewis (I 10-15), Harry Flowers (I Barlow, George Thomason, George He followed it up with a brisk opening 10-13), Jamie Humes (I 10-15), Freddie Lewis, Steve Barnard, Paddy Lynch- spell fuelled by a score to settle with Earlam (Rt 10-15). Staunton, James Ashton, Charles Kidson, Will Mason from the previous year. Henry Lewis Jamie Hulmes, Charlie White, Mason however got the Saracens off to Will Mason a flyer and we were 95-1 off 12 overs. A George Thomason collapse in the middle order meant that despite the partnership between Henry Saracens Tour to Devon 2016 Lewis (88) and George Thomason (39) the Saracens fell short by 28 runs. The annual cricket tour to North Devon was yet again an overwhelming success. In keeping with trends from the Buoyed by the secretary’s grand arrival, previous few years, we were delighted Wednesday’s 30 over game against the to welcome back a strong group of Somerset Stragglers at the beautiful recent leavers and that was bolstered venue of the Valley of Rocks, Lynton, Freddie Earlam (Rt 10-15) bowling at the Brasenose by debutant tourists; James Kidson, was our best performance of the week. Strollers

The Valley of the Rocks Ground, Lynton and Lynmouth Cricket Club 78 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

The Old Salopian Hunt

The end of another School year has passed and goodbyes are said to friends of The Hunt, as they progress to the next exciting phase of life and I hope that they will one day use their membership of our club to visit one of the runs either as a participant or a spectator.

When members of the Old Salopian Hunt gather each year on The Drum in front of the Main School Building, there is a great hum of chatter between old and new friends, including the boys, girls and staff, as we all prepare for the Run which has brought us back together annually for over 60 years. I am sure it will be no different on Saturday 3rd December 2016 and, as usual, those who attend will say how much they enjoyed their visit. Some will also consider coming to the Annual Alumni Race in Roehampton, on Saturday 17th December, where over two dozen Schools’ Alumni run over Oliver O’Callaghan-Brown (R 1981-86), Richard and Lucie Tait-Harris Wimbledon Common, getting muddy and sweaty in a good old-fashioned cross-country race and where age is no barrier – as I can testify ! As the representative of the OSH, I continue to do my duty, not only interacting with The Hunt, but also following the progress of the RSSH and associated activities. In April I was honoured to be present at the Knole Run Dinner menu Knole Run Victory Dinner, celebrating The Hunt’s success in this National Competition held in Sevenoaks back on 16th January 2016, where a testing course and daunting rivals made for the most exciting of races that I have witnessed. With the present strong squad of Hunt athletes already training hard, the 43rd Knole Run will be an event in January not to be missed. Ben, Annabelle and Hugo Remnant Joint-Huntsman Ben Remnant and Peter Middleton On Sunday 19th June, a large ‘Team Shrewsbury’ once again completed the 2016 Shrewsbury Half-Marathon, with many of them raising money for the Restart Centre in Gilgil, Kenya. There were boys and girls of The Hunt, parents, Old Salopians, friends and staff with wives, all wearing out the streets of Shrewsbury Town, with a lap of Ashton Road thrown into the course, as well as a countryside ‘jog’ out to Berwick and back! An amazing 1,340 runners completed the course, with Peter Middleton finishing 2nd in an impressive time of 1 hour 16 minutes and 10 seconds. Before the run began, some of the Team – Josh Wong, Olivia Papaoiannou, Susannah Watts, Luke Lloyd-Jones, Martha Pownall and Half Marathon 2016 Alfred Mitchell posed for a photo. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 79

expand on this recollection, then do get in touch with me on [email protected] or on the OSH Facebook page. There is some news from members of the Old Salopian Hunt. George Mallett (176th Huntsman for the 2011- 12 season) has spent six weeks, from August, in Iten, Kenya, clocking up hundreds of kilometres in training (have a look at George’s very interesting training blog ‘An Itenian Challenge’) and as I write, he is due to compete in his first marathon in Istanbul on Sunday 13th November. Then he will be back to prepare for the 2017 London Marathon on Sunday 23rd April. The present Senior Whip, Will Hayward (R), joined last season’s Joint Huntsmen, Ben Remnant and Oscar Dickins,

OSH Merchandise on their attempt at the Welsh Peaks 24-Hour Challenge, on Friday 28th At this point, I should reiterate the White), running in front of the Queen’s October (see photo below). They ran fact that many photos of activities can Terrace and going on to win Junior a total of 28km in 7 hours 59 minutes, be found on the Old Salopian Hunt Paperchases on Friday 11th December ascending 4,920 feet, taking on Mount Facebook page, where additional in 1970. It is just possible to make out Snowdon, then Cadair Idris and finally comments and input is always Willie Jones, Master-in-Charge of the welcome. The OSH pages on the RSSH, with clipboard, standing on Pen-Y-Fan. This was all to fundraise School website are also worth checking the Terrace and Richard Raven, then for the ‘Balloon Ventures’ charity, for information and reports regarding Housemaster of Severn Hill, with his which encourages individuals, in some events and also our OSH merchandise. wife Liz and dog, along with others of the poorest parts of the world, Go to www.shrewsbury.org.uk/page/ encouraging the runners. You can just to set up business and involve local os-hunt and explore! make out the top of the path that zig- communities to the benefit of them all. As mentioned before, the project zagged down the School Bank, which As a volunteer, Oscar has been selected to digitise The Hunt records is now many will remember was a popular by the International Citizen Service to gathering momentum and it is hoped training test for not only The Hunt but go, in January, to West Kenya for three the Boat Club to run up. Sadly, the that I will soon be able to report on months, to help with a community the progress of this job. This will School Bank is overgrown and the path work project run by Balloon ICS. protect some 8,000 pages and pieces is in a deplorable state now, having of written history from around 1830 had no maintenance for many years. Peter Birch (Huntsman 1970-71, onwards, including the ‘Huntsman’ If Simon or his friends would like to Dayboys 1966-71) and ‘Hound Books, in which 182 Huntsmen have written.

Here is a 46-year-old memory that I have dug out of from the album of grainy black and white photos. It shows Simon Cowpe of Headroom (House Colours Magenta & White), which was one half of School House along with Doctors (Colours Black & 80 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Old Salopian Golfing Society

A year ago, readers of these columns surely recall the excruciating pain of losing by one point in the annual match against Old Malvernians at Blackwell. I bring you, dear reader, glad tidings that will soothe.

This year, OSGS defeated the old with a Sunday in the summer. once and for all. Having defeated foe at Blackwell on 9th October and Disturbingly, only nine players Lancing 3-0 on the first morning, we won the Tony Duerr Tankard; the ‘tipped up’ on 26th June. We had were fired up for the match against final score was 6-4. The OSGS team two 2-balls off the white tees Loretto whom we narrowly beat in (with points won) was as follows: contesting the Storey Putter and then last year’s final. With a 3 - 0 win over Mike Thelwall Jones (2): James two 3-balls, playing stableford for the the Scots, we headed to our annual Pollock (2): Chris Bullock (1.5): Tommy Hall Cup. dinner in fine spirits. We played Angus Pollock (Captain) (1.5): Ben The course as usual provided a Haileybury in the semi-finals and Oswald (1): Martin Cars (1): Charlie stern test, with the lush fairways whilst Allan Wright and I were given Stockbridge (1): James Skelton (1): preventing much run on the ball but a half, despite being 2 down with 2 Bill Russell (1): Charles Hill (0). the firm and speedy greens deceiving to play, we won convincingly in the Battle will be resumed on Sunday most. Mark Ferguson started off other pairs to record an impressive 8th October 2017. Shrewsbury lead boldly with two birdies but a 7 on victory. We faced strong Oundle the series 13-3. the short 7th slowed him down, just pairings in the final but again a little: meanwhile Anthony Smith Anthony Smith and Andy Pollock gave a Presidential masterclass (unbeaten in over 20 Mellin matches) Royal Wimbledon: in accuracy and deft short-game, and James Shaw and William Painter reaching the turn in level par, with were soon ahead in their matches In the Schools Putting competition birdie 2s on the 4th and 7th. Mike and never looked in trouble. The less on 3rd June, OSGS came 3rd on Thelwall-Jones and Will Painter said about the other pair the better! our qualifying day with 32 pts. failed to keep pace. In the end, the This was our best ever score. We (Hon Sec adds: Whilst both Titans Fergmonster, (aka Mark Ferguson, needed two wins from our last two are too modest to allow this in print, father of Barnaby E. T. Ferguson) encounters, one against a strong it is worth noting that Will Painter and the President tied on 78 gross, Lancing side (one of theirs had a and James Shaw have only been with Anthony cursing his untidy 7 100% record in seven matches) but beaten once in six years playing down the last with a lip-out putt and sadly, fell short. We were three together. That mishap was in the losing the back-9 countback to his points short of reaching the Final. final against Oundle four years ago. young rival, who took the Storey Simon Shepherd organised the OSGS Their current winning run is 12, Putter for the first time. four that included Ben Chesters, Will reckoning 23 wins out of 24 matches. Hawksley and Alex Stewart. Meanwhile the Stableford battle was A final fanfare: Will & James have being keenly contested with Charles played in 5 Winning Mellin Teams Swan starting brightly with 7 points together). Little Aston: after 2 holes but by the 18th, holder We performed well in the Peter Jonathan Mitchell just lost out to Rob Burles Salver reaching the semi- Heroically, yet again, with Bennett for the Tommy Hall Cup on finals, only to lose on the 19th. the patience of Job, David a last-6 countback, both scoring 33 The McMullan brothers, Peter and Warmington raised a happy band pts, with Charles Swan on 31 and Malcom, and Michael Brabner and of ten Salopians, including three D’Arcy Swan and Charles Mitchell 27. Stephen Shaw played consistently newcomers, to play in the Public Nearest the pin winners (7th) - Schools Meeting on 22nd June. We well and were unlucky to lose. Tim Anthony Smith and Rob Bennett. came 5th with a score of 100 points Lewis and John Parker appeared for Long drive winners (18th) – Rob against Wrekin’s winning 110 (3 pairs Shrewsbury in the Bunny Millard Bennett (again) and Will Painter counting). Salver (over 75s). Distressingly, (only one on the fairway!). they failed to reproduce last year’s astounding form and did not Our lions were as follows: qualify for the four pair knockout Anthony Smith & Charles Hill - 33 pts The G L ‘Susie’ Mellin and competition. Richard Bevan &Neil Crawford - 37 other Salvers at West Hill: It was marvellous to see Anthony (second best in the morning and Peter Worth, Captain of our Mellin Parsons, Vice-President OSGS should have won the best gross but teams, reports: and past winner of many Halford didn’t hole out from a foot at 4th…) I am delighted to record our third Hewitts and Mellins, back running Martin Cars & Charles Tustain – 30 win in a row in the G L ‘Susie’ Mellin the competitions, with the assistance of his charming wife Fenella, David Oldham & Jonathan Hope - 28 Salver and our fourth win in the last five years. Over time, we have who captivated if not vanquished Andrew Hulme & Steve Pritchard – 25 developed a very strong squad and the hearts of many of the elderly there was much talk in the locker competitors. Together they represent Trentham: room, not quite á la Donald J Trump, Shrewsbury cum laude. For our 56th visit, we experimented about bringing down Shrewsbury The whole event is a delight to play, OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 81 largely thanks to Anthony and the Reptonians at Worplesdon on 15th which provides another option in the wonderful welcome from all at West August, we secured a draw this plans for next year’s Halford Hewitt. Hill Golf Club who allow us the year. John Parker, Nick Renton, freedom of the club over three days. Simon Shepherd, John Godby, Leigh Whittingham, Patrick Carr The Campion Trophy Final At Hadley Wood: and Charles Shaw took part. Robin 2016 at Royal Birkdale: OSGS Match versus Old Humble was sorely missed. Anthony Smith, President of OSGS Cholmeleians on 22nd July. Worplesdon (again): writes: Thanks to the efficiency of OSGS non-playing Captain Simon David Umpleby to whom our thanks Shepherd (O 1977-82) writes: I am On 9th September, Rob Cutler (38 go for organising this year ‘Campion’, pleased to report both morning pts, playing off 8 handicap) ran off the final took place on 16th and afternoon wins by 2 & 1: we with the Tony Duerr Silver Salver. October. First of all, the match was now stand 3 – 1 in the series, in The runner-up was Frank Higham our favour. The OSGS braves were: (35 pts, off 9). Once again, Nick played in initially squally rain which David Umpleby & William Hawksley: Oldham & Julian Sterck, Stephen turned to bright blue sky. Bunkers John Bolton & John Parker: Frank Shaw, John Bolton & Peter Thwaites featured frequently in the match, Higham & Mark Summers. adorned our company, alongside but in the end the result came down newcomers James Skelton and to who holed (and who missed) the . Richard Boys-Stones. Nick Oldham critical putts. is keen to organise an evening The Alwoodley: meeting with supper next year at This meeting reminds one of the his home club of Royal Mid-Surrey, Congratulations go to Will Painter, Prayer Book – “When two or three aimed at those working in London. who won on the last green in are gathered together…” (The prayer Watch this space. the closest final to date. Simon of St Chrysostom to be precise). Prior Shepherd will be rueing missed to this year’s pilgrimage, the Club opportunities in both of the last had hosted over 110 members of the Blackwell: two holes, while Will commendably Ladies’ MacKenzie Society, attracting Winner of the Todwick Tankard: got ‘up and down’ at both 16 and players from Australia, Argentina, Charles Hill (36 pts), with Charles 17 from greenside bunkers. Also Canada, Chile, USA; in short, from all Tustain, runner-up (34 pts), and in thanks go to Mike Hadden for corners of the globe, for such is the third place, our illustrious President, his ‘preparatory’ work. The only lure of this great course. In bathos, Anthony Smith (30 pts). There also possible downside was that, due to OSGS mustered five players this year ran Rod Spiby (28 pts), Trevor unforeseen happenings elsewhere on 7th August. Michael Brabner (all Williams (26 pts), John Pulsford in all sorts of directions, there were the way from Hoylake) took first (20 pts). prize with 32 points, secured with only three people at the final. The a magnificent 3 wood to the heart And some there be who have no two protagonists and myself. The of the 18th green (446 yards). Peter memorial – Hon Sec, who managed golf played (bunkers apart) deserved Ambler, Neil Crawford, John Smith nine holes. a bigger gallery. Our thanks go to (President, The Alwoodley) and Charles Hill (again) hammered the the Council of The Royal Birkdale Geoff Thomas (Winner of last year’s longest drive. Oliver Eaton struck Golf Club for generously allowing Campion Trophy) made up the select an effortless 8 iron at the 3rd hole the Society to play the final on their assembly and it was a joy to have (145 yards) to within six inches of magnificent Links. Hazel Crawford with us at lunch. the flag for Nearest the Pin prize. Next year we return to Worfield, near Bridgnorth, where the open- These reports manifest the commitment of OSGS to provide Little Aston (again) for the handedness of Oliver Eaton is Repternbury Cup beyond words. members with the pleasure of great golf in great company on great On 7th August, in the second year championship courses. At the AGM of this Triangular match, OSGS came at Blackwell on 25th September, behind Repton (306 pts) and Malvern Grafton Morrish Finals at a proposal from Peter Worth was (308). Our 295 points were amassed Hunstanton & Brancaster: unanimously agreed whereby by Anthony Smith, Mark Schofield It is disappointing to report that we Salopians up to the age of 28 years (Master in charge of Golf), Charles fell to Solihull (previous winners of will receive very attractive discounts Hill, Ian Carter (guest of Charles Hill) this highly competitive tournament) and Charles Tustain (organiser of in the first round. The pairings of to encourage them to join OSGS and OSGS). Simon Shepherd & William Painter play in meetings – details to follow and Richard Roberts and Alex but those interested, who have read Stewart lost their matches, while thus far, should spread the gospel Worplesdon: Angus Pollock and Andy Pollock and apply to: (Captain) were all square going up OSGS Match versus Old Reptonians 17, when they took a half. In the on 13th August. Plate Stableford at Brancaster, OSGS Tim Lewis – Honorary Secretary – Jonathan Russell, non-playing finished 6th out of 32 teams, top four Salopian Golfing Society Captain, reports that after last qualifying. Alex Stewart and Angus [email protected] year’s whitewash of the Old Pollock played very well indeed Tel: 01491 641651 82 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Old Salopian Women’s Sport

On Saturday 1st October the Old Girls took on the School’s 1st VII in the annual OS Day netball match. With the torrential rainfall and both teams battling against the conditions, it made for an interesting match. Our netballing skills a little rusty, the Old Girls were off to a slow start and couldn’t keep up with some impeccable shooting from the Shrewsbury side. With some fumbled balls and some lucky interceptions, the OS Girls managed to claw back some goals to close the gap before the court became waterlogged and the match had to be called off at 5-4 to The School. Big congratulations to the current pupils; the girls never fail to put out a brilliant side. A huge thank you again to our opposition for turning out and playing in such awful conditions. It was a real shame that the match had to be called off. However we are all looking forward to yet another competitive rematch at next year’s Old Salopian Day. The appalling weather didn’t dampen our spirits though and it was lovely to go back to MSH after the abandoning of the game for drinks and canapes provided by The School. I am pleased to confirm that a number of Old Salopian Ladies have signed up to a netball league in South West London with Go Mammoth. The league is due to start in late November and will hopefully enable us to gel together as a team of all ages and enable us to take part in some competitive sport again. If anyone is keen to join in, please do contact Elle Gurden (elle.gurden@ mondrian.com). You can never have too many!

Old Salopian Masonic Lodge The Old Salopian Lodge continues Foundation. Through this, we are Old Salopian Lodge Events to meet four times per year: three committed to supporting a Rowing Tuesday 28th February 2017 - Old times in London and once at the Scholarship for the next six years. Salopian Lodge meeting, at the Schools. The position of Worshipful We are affiliated to the Public City University Club, 50 Cornhill, Master is currently held by David Schools Lodges Council (www. London EC3V 3PD, commencing at Westwood (Ph 1978-83). Members pslc.net) and are a member Lodge 5.00 pm, followed by Lodge dinner. cover an age range of over 40 years, of the United Grand Lodge of For further details, please contact so it is an excellent way not only of England (www.ugle.org.uk - www. the Lodge Secretary, Chris Williams maintaining a link with the Schools, londonmasons.org.uk). (R 1978-83) on 07956 964937 or but also of meeting different Membership is open not only to old [email protected] generations of Old Salopians boys of the School, but also fathers Saturday 3rd June 2017 - Old in a friendly and harmonious setting. of Old Salopians. It is a rule of the Salopian Lodge visit to the Schools. Our summer 2017 meeting at the Grand Lodge that membership of Schools is scheduled for Saturday this organisation is male only. Venue - Clubroom of the School 3rd June 2017 in the Clubroom London meetings are at the City Boathouse. of the School Boathouse. A short University Club, 50 Cornhill, Lodge meeting at 11.15 am. meeting, followed by a long lunch. London, in February, September, Family buffet lunch, open to all, Meeting at 11.15 am, followed by a and November. The next one including children, commencing buffet lunch, open to all, including is scheduled for Tuesday 28th with drinks at 12.30 pm. children, commencing with drinks February 2017, commencing at Lunch £25 for adults, £15 for under at 12.30 pm. Please book via the 5.00 pm, and followed by a dinner. 18s, under 10s free. Secretary below - further details are Attendance is Masons only. on the Events page of the Salopian For further information, please For further details, please contact Club website. contact the Lodge Secretary, the Lodge Secretary, Chris Williams As part of our charitable activities, Chris Williams (R 1978-83) on 07956 964937 or we operate a Lodge Bursary Fund, (R 1978-83) on 07956 964937 or [email protected] which is held as part of the Salopian [email protected] OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 83

Common Room Appreciations

David Gee is currently compiling a record of the contributions made to the School by each of his colleagues who were members of the Common Room in 1950 and in the years which have subsequently elapsed. Drawing on all the material already available, but widely dispersed, piecemeal and often unattributable, in the former Salopian, in the Salopian Newsletters, the current Salopian, and in biographies, memoirs and more ephemeral publications, he has edited and collated it, combining it with his own original writing and personal memories, aiming to produce an easily accessible, rounded and comprehensive appreciation of each individual in turn. David believes that many of these colleagues have exercised a profound, benign and inspirational effect upon the School and the current quality of its life and that they richly deserve to be commemorated in this way. It is his firm conviction that it is the personal chemistry between the members of the Common Room, and the tradition which they inherit and transmit, which creates the distinctive ethos and engenders the affection which so many Salopians recognise and feel for their school. It is intended to publish one of these appreciations in the Salopian Magazine from time to time, for readers who may be interested in the project; and the first of these is of Russell Hope Simpson, (Master 1924-1965), which follows:

Russell Hope-Simpson a range of topics which encompassed the doings both of Master 1924-1965 Julius Caesar and of Tippoo Sahib. He liked to recount that, in the days of First Lesson, he had only overslept M.A., late Scholar of The Queen’s College, Oxford. once, and he used to quote an outstanding example of tact, Form Master. History and Classics. Senior Master exemplified in the words of the School House boy, who 1960-1964. Housemaster of School House 1933-1948. was also a member of his form, who tapped on Russell’s Rowing Coach RSSBC. Died 26nd January 1990. bedroom door just before eight o’clock one morning. “Shall we get on with our Caesar, sir?” the boy enquired! Hope-Simpson is a ‘double-barrelled’ surname, and A Lower School Form is potentially the most boisterous although Russell was his Christian name I never heard and demanding kind of Salopian audience, and once more anyone use it. By all his colleagues he was known as, it was a tribute both to Russell’s stamina and his standards and was called ‘Juggins’ and that was the name by which that, when in his last year on the staff he finally had to the boys too referred to him in his later years, though in confess to his form on one occasion that he felt positively his earlier years they had called him ‘The Beau’. Russell ill, the boys at first believed that it was the inadequate was one of that increasingly rare breed of men, (Michael quality of their translation that had made him so. Charlesworth identifies thirteen such individuals since the Russell was a truly formidable rowing coach. At School School moved to Kingsland in 1882), who have served level he occasionally coached the 2nd VIII, but it was as full-time members of the teaching staff for a full forty with the 3rd VIII that he returned, year after year, from years or more. After schooldays at Rugby, Russell was Pangbourne with a victorious crew; year after year, as a awarded a scholarship at The Queen’s College, Oxford, House Coach, he submitted, with happy resignation, to where he read Mods and Greats. He was appointed to being carried up the school bank, as his Headroom crew the staff by Bob Sawyer in 1924 and immediately joined went Head of the River, yet again, on the last night of the Headmaster as Tutor in School House. In 1933, Bumpers. Rival coaches found him an invincibly subtle when Hardy, succeeding Bob Sawyer, decided that the tactician in the nerve-racking procedure of starting Senior Headmaster should no longer be a Housemaster also, Challenge Oars crews from their fixed stations in a fast- Russell became Housemaster of School House in his running February stream. When complimented on the own right. He served his full tenure of fifteen years, and repeated success of his crews, he would occasionally indeed returned temporarily to take charge of the House permit himself one comment, uttered in a cheerful growl, after the sudden and tragic death of his successor, Tom “Well, I suppose they weren’t all that slow!” His coaching Taylor, in 1952. To discharge that exacting responsibility so contained an element of sheer magic. A member of one successfully and for so long reveals Russell’s much envied of his crews, who on Russell’s last night in the School and respected stamina. Twenty-four years in School House presented him with a covered silver dish in which the is a record which has not since been equalled and it is Airedale puppy, which was to be the companion of his very unlikely that it ever will be. retirement, had been briefly concealed, wrote, many In the classroom, Russell was a leading member of the years afterwards, “I have a watercolour of the School and (now extinct) band of Lower School Form Masters; he Boathouse, and I never look at it without recollecting expounded to his young audience, in judicious amalgam, the long trudge up the school bank, with dear Juggins, 84 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

usually wearing an old raincoat, pushing his old, old bike the complexities of a sentence of Caesar, which had and with his battered aluminium megaphone. He would defeated me, when as a House Tutor, I had tried to recollect past glories on the river and tell of those he had help a junior Churchillian with his Top Schools: and coached who went on to gain rowing blues or better. the occasion when, in one of his productions for a With Juggins, technique always counted for more than School House Sing-Song (the Salopian slang expression brute strength. “Let the boat run”, he would shout and for the occasion was a Slay), he cast me in the role “hold the oar as though you are shaking hands with the of henchman to a villain, played by David Main, who frailest old aunt.” It was entirely appropriate that Russell had in his power a damsel in distress, played by Peter was elected to serve as President of the Sabrina Club. Gladstone. I was to make my entry by being pushed He was a magnificent gardener: the construction of the through one of the shelves of the serving lift which then Masters’ Garden will be his permanent memorial, and ran between the basement and the Hall. I protested, he spent long hours there in the summer evenings, with mildly but truthfully, that at the time I was receiving Moses (Peter Gladstone’s dog) in attendance, before treatment for an injured back. Russell conceded, kindly returning home to attend to his other enthusiasm, but firmly, “Well, push him through gently.” photography. On one occasion he was persuaded to As Senior Master, Russell was a wise adviser and loyal appear in the Masters’ end-of-term revue. All the producer supporter of Jack Peterson, and he served a few extra required him to do was to walk slowly across the stage, years on the staff in order to provide support and clad in gardening kit, wearing wellington boots and continuity as the succession passed to Donald Wright. pushing a wheelbarrow. The riotous enthusiasm with Like other senior members of the Common Room, Russell which his appearance was greeted by the whole school could easily be lured into reminiscences . provoked an unforgettable smile of tolerant bewilderment. We loved to manoeuvre him into telling his famous story In his latter years on the staff he was the doyen of The of the unthinkable decision of the adjudicator of the New House, (now the Sanatorium), which then housed House Music competition at which, his eagerly awaited a colony of bachelor masters. He presided over that and invariable punch-line ran: ‘the whole school gasped’. ménage with a similar tolerance both of Peter Gladstone’s Russell had his prejudices, too. One example was his badger as a temporary fellow-resident , of the insistent reaction to the news that one of his contemporaries, a exhortations of a temporary master, who use to approach bachelor in his late ‘fifties, who was on leave of absence him daily with the porridge saucepan, urging him to ‘have to receive medical treatment in a Swiss sanatorium, had some more oats, Hope’ , and of the sometimes boisterous announced his engagement to a fellow patient. “Well”, banter and behaviour of his younger colleagues. However, Russell remarked, “I knew he was ill, but I didn’t know he could also be firm. “Take that thing off”, he ordered that he was that ill.” Though his tone could sometimes when, flushed with triumph, I incautiously placed my first be gruff and his comments sharp they deceived no-one; trophy as a rowing coach on the New House breakfast both colleagues and pupils quickly came to recognize his table: it was a phrase he used again when he saw me characteristic and inherent kindness, which gained their wearing a woolly bobble-hat as we passed each other respect and affection. on our bicycles while coaching on a snowy February Russell was a remarkably versatile man, though he veiled afternoon. Fellow residents well remember a heavy step his varied skills under an attractive cloak of modesty. on the stair about half-past-ten in the evening which Classicist, Historian, Housemaster, Senior Master, rowing presaged an invitation to strong tea and rich cake; while coach, photographer, a gardener of genius, prison visitor, in the mornings they remember a certain tendency of producer of plays. In his long retirement in Windermere, his to monopolise both the baths, by slowly running Russell found many friends and established a fine the water for the cold bath he invariably took, in the reputation in horticultural circles, an achievement which one, while the photographic prints he had developed was signalled by the numerous company which attended in the small hours of the night floated in the other. his funeral in Lancaster, where tribute was paid to him as We shuddered in vicarious shock as he plunged every ‘a kindly Christian gentleman’. Shortly before his death morning into that cold bath! Russell himself commented that it had been a good life. I remember the triumph with which he would unravel He spoke more truly than he either meant or knew.

Last night of the Bumping Races, late 1940s OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 85

PUBLICATIONS

Oliver Clutton-Brock (R 1958-63) (Cricket, Hockey and Athletics: the half It all began in 1899 with William Snow, (editor) and Geoffrey Fallows (R mile) and a classical scholar of Pembroke known as ‘Pa’ who excelled at the 1955-60) (author) College, Oxford. In his day, EPH was classics and loved his sport. In every The Craig: Preparatory School in the one of the fastest bowlers in England, for way, he is revealed as the Founder of Warwickshire, who, batting for Oxford The Craig. His grandson Christopher Lake District 1899-1966 struck a six off the Cambridge bowling Hewetson (R 1951-56) writes of their Review by Tim Lewis (The Craig School, on to the tennis court, which then lay to relationship in a moving and evocative Windermere 1944-50; Rigg’s Hall 1950- the left of the pavilion at Lord’s. contribution. From ‘Pa’, he learnt a 55), whose brothers Christopher, Anthony Aside from the remarkable all-round love of poetry. Pa’s prospectus of 1902 and Stephen were educated at The Craig. sportsman, EPH had special gifts as should have been at the forefront of The Craig School prepared boys for a teacher of Maths and as a reader of Kenneth Baker’s mind when he devised Public Schools from 1899 to 1966, stirring books for boys from such authors the National Curriculum 86 years later. under three headmasters, William Snow, as Buchan and Rider Haggard. He ‘Pa’ Snow defined education at The founder, his son Tom and his son-in-law bestrode our world like a colossus. And Craig as the awakening of interest, the Edward Hewetson or EPH as he was he assembled around him teachers of widening of the intellect and, above all, known, (Ch 1915-21). devotion to their subjects. the strengthening of character. In 2005, nearly 40 years after The Craig The book recalls John Kitchin, son For those who loved their preparatory had closed, around 100 former pupils of AEK and a nephew of EPH, who schools or who seek to capture the life of with the Hewetson family assembled taught the Classics, reflecting his love of a preparatory school that prepared boys from across the kingdom at The Hydro Virgil and Homer and as a Golf Blue, for Common Entrance to Public Schools Hotel, Windermere. This was testimony John struck golf balls into Red Tarn on up to the mid-Sixties, Geoffrey Fallows (R to the affection bred for the school Helvellyn. 1955-60), his wife Jo and his collaborator at the finish Oliver Clutton-Brock (R 1958- and the Hewetson family within living Nicknames of members of staff were 63) have served up a gem. memory. From this reunion was born a affectionate and to the point. John Packett wishful thought that a story of The Craig had a nose like a parrot. He was ‘Beaky’. If anyone is interested in purchasing a should be written. The eccentric music teacher was Ray copy of the book, please contact Oliver And the lot fell upon Geoffrey Fallows Jeans who founded a scouts group. Clutton-Brock at 9 Spin Hill, Market (R 1955-60), to sift through school He took the scouts on summer camps, Lavington, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 4NR, records and local press cuttings and inaugurating such skills as fire-lighting. or by email at oliver.cluttonbrock@ to appeal to old boys to record their We admired him as ‘Jazz Jeans’. Salopians btinternet.com. The price of the book is memories of The Craig. Geoffrey’s will remember Captain Frankie Barnes, £20, to include p&p with cheques made painstaking research and the response and ‘Juggins’ Hope-Simpson who taught payable to Oliver Clutton-Brock. that he obtained from the family, pupils, at The Craig in their retirements from Tim Lewis masters and matrons, dating back to Shrewsbury. 1934, have produced a fascinating Singular, secondly, for the ‘locus’ of The collection of memories and a legion of Craig, just as Ronald Knox wrote of the reminiscent photographs as an account site at Kingsland – vividly described by of life at a singular preparatory school. Diana, the second of the three daughters Singular on so many counts: firstly, the of Edward and Mary Hewetson: the personalities of the family leadership house, her childhood home, the playing that was enduring; secondly the eight- fields, the woods of adventure and acre site overlooking Lake Windermere excitement and the stream or beck that with the panoply of the Lakeland fells ran through the site from School Knott beyond, alluring expeditions to the hills, Tarn, which the School Run traced. to the summit of Helvellyn to see the And singular, thirdly, to the commitment sunrise, led by EPH. of the family, of whom there was none None fitted better than EPH, ‘a giant more dedicated to ‘Craig boys’ than of a man’, with three blues at Oxford Mary Hewetson.

Tony Black (O 1950-55) David Williams-Thomas (R 1953-58) A World History of Ancient Political Thought The Dynasty Builder Oxford University Press (2nd paperback edition) Brown Dog Books From the Preface: “Why do we need a worldwide study of ancient David Williams-Thomas ran Royal Brierley political thought? We need it because it will increase our understanding Crystal in Stourbridge throughout his working of the political ways of all civilizations, our own and others. It will life and his book traces the history of the firm reveal something of the storehouse of ethical and political ideas that has and family from 1846 to 1998 using public, been, and still is, available to such peculiarly social beings as ourselves. private and family archives as well as personal Confucius and Plato, Aristotle and Kautilya may still speak to us. But memories. It is based on the diaries of David’s before we can understand what they say, we have to understand why they great-great grandfather, Samuel Cox Williams, wrote and the problems they faced.” who was one of the principle protagonists in Also in the Preface, Tony Black acknowledges the influence of two masters the Victorian handmade glass and founded at Shrewsbury: “I was taught at Shrewsbury by two outstanding geniuses in Stevens & Williams in 1846, building it their profession: Jimmy Street, who made me love Greek and Latin poetry; into arguably the most important art glass and Anthony Chevenix-Trench, who introduced me to Aeschylus (whose manufacturer in the world, which later became words have strengthened me in difficult hours).” Royal Brierley Crystal. 86 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Super Cycling Man

Q and A interview with Will Hodson (Rt 1990-95) who is currently on an epic adventure cycling across every continent on the planet, including Antarctica.

been hospitable, keen to have a laugh and help out when they can. One day last week in China I was given food and drink four times in a day by different people - one truck driver even pulled over on the hard shoulder of a busy road to give me the snacks he was munching during his long journey! The kindness of strangers is really mind- blowing, but I find it very reassuring that it’s something every single country has in common.

As if that wasn’t enough, he is also honest, it’s pretty fun for me as well, as pedalling every single mile of the way everyone recognises Superman around in a superhero costume! the world and it’s great to make people The following questions were all laugh…especially border guards. emailed in by children who are following Will’s super cycling journey Where have you been so far? around the world via a live map and Since I left London on 31st May 2015, blogs on his website. I have cycled over 20,000 kilometres and have wiggled my across Europe Isn’t it dangerous to cycle round Why are you wearing a superhero and am now roughly half way across the world? costume on your bike? Asia. I have cycled across 20 countries Everyone’s perception of risk is Good question! And one that I also ask so far, in the following order: England, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, different. Personally I don’t feel any myself on pretty well a daily basis. Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, more in danger on the road in a The main reason is because it’s a great Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Macedonia, foreign country than when I was living, way to get young children interested in Greece, Turkey, Georgia, Russia, working and commuting in London. following my cycling adventure around Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan The scariest moment for me so far on the planet. I used to be a primary and Kyrgyzstan. my round the world bike ride was school teacher and I’m visiting primary when I got stuck going up in a lift schools all over the world during my in Istanbul! Those were possibly the Where are you now? world cycle. I’ve visited 40 schools longest two minutes of my life! now in 20 different countries and the At the moment I am making my way children find it absolutely hilarious that across China and am in a city called there is a guy cycling around the world Jiayuguan. I took a day off the bike Can you fly in the sky? in a superhero costume. If I’m being today and went for a walk along the Only if I take a plane! One of the first westernmost part of the Great Wall things I say when I visit schools around of China. It wasn’t very relaxing as it the world is that I’m very definitely was pretty steep in parts, but it was not a real superhero, but that I also an amazing experience. If you want passionately believe that everyone to follow my adventure live and as can be a hero by having the courage it happens, I have a GPS tracker that to go for your dreams, not giving up updates my exact location on a world and being kind to others - preferably map every 10 minutes on my website. all three!

What is the favourite place you have Where do you sleep? been to? I’m on a pretty tight budget so I try and I have enjoyed every single country I sleep for free whenever I can. I am have been so far. Sure, the quality of carrying a tent with me and I also use scenery and the food has varied from two websites called warmshowers.org country to country, but it’s the local and couchsurfing.com which put me in people that really make the journey contact with helpful people all over the interesting for me. In every single world who want to put people up for country I have been to, people have the night. Sometimes I have even been OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 87 spontaneously invited into someone’e house after just saying hello or having a cup of tea. It really is incredible how many kind people there are out there! Every now and again I treat myself to a night in a cheap hotel. As I write this, I am in a hotel in China. I have just had a shower with my tent and given it its first clean in a year (long overdue!), I have strung up my hand- washed clothes on a piece of string across the room to let them dry and am consuming all the free tea and biscuits I can get my hands on. I feel like I’m definitely getting my money’s worth!

Why are you cycling for charity? to cycle across Antarctica very soon, My father has Parkinson’s so I want so I will be following her adventures to raise as much money as possible closely. I have around four years before to support the work of the charity I will be cycling there, so I have plenty Parkinson’s UK. I am aiming to of time to get ready for it! raise £100,000 for them and several Do you stop for food? other charities. So far, people have Where do you go next? been unbelievably generous and the YES! A lot! I’m burning through a lot of I am currently cycling east across China fundraising total currently stands at just calories cycling around 100 kilometres as quickly as I can to get down into over £14,000! each day on a bicycle that is carrying sightly warmer South East Asia to avoid around 50kg of bags. I am carrying the worst of the winter. It’s already a small camping stove so I can make What will you do when you getting pretty cold here in China with porridge for breakfast in the morning get home? temperatures around 1 or 2 degrees and noodles in the evening. During That seems like a long way off in during the day time and well below the day I will stop once or twice for the future! I might not be back home freezing at night. I’m wearing ski a big meal wherever I can find food, until 2020! At the moment I plan to gloves, a balaclava and walking boots generally restaurants in service stations have several part-time jobs rather than to combat the cold. I’ve also got some or in small towns. There is also a whole one full-time job, as I have learned ski goggles with me if things get really lot of snacking in between these meals that variety keeps me happy. I would bad, but I haven’t had to use those to keep the calories going in: bananas, love to split my time between being yet…and I hope I don’t have to! cake, nuts, bread rolls and peanut a primary school teacher, a cycle If you have a child (or if even you butter, apples…anything I can get my instructor and I would love to write a don’t!) and you have a question for hands on! series of children’s books based on the Will about his round the world bike adventures of SuperCyclingMan around ride, you can send him an email with Do you miss your family and the world. your question via his website: http:// friends? supercyclingman.com/#ask Will is also posting regular diary Yes, but the internet helps me keep in entries and photos on Facebook: touch. I try and video call my parents https://www.facebook.com/ and my sister back in the UK whenever supercyclingmanfacebookpage/ I can find WiFi. That really helps. In some of the countries good WiFi has If you would like to donate to help been hard to find, but in China, where I towards Will’s fundraising goal of am now, places are pretty easy to find. £100,000 for Parkinson’s UK and several other charities, you can donate online to his Virgin Money Giving page: http:// Do you learn lots of languages? uk.virginmoneygiving.com/giving/ and I try and learn at least four words in search for Will Hodson under ‘Make a every country I travel through: “hello”, How will you cycle in Antarctica? donation’. “thank you”, “please” and “goodbye”. Good question! And I don’t have all the And finally, if you have any contacts Conversations tend to be basic and answers to this one…yet. One thing I in the countries where Will is heading repetitive, but can often become quite do know is that cycling in Antarctica next (China, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, funny too, especially if you have to is possible, as there was a bike race to Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, mime out a chicken laying an egg if you the South Pole several years ago that South Korea, Japan, Australia and want to eat an egg. This has happened was won by an amazing woman called New Zealand), particularly in schools, many times and I can do a pretty good Maria Leijerstram. Another woman please contact Will direct at hello@ chicken impression now I think! called Kate Leeming is also aiming supercylingman.com 88 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

OBITUARIES

J M G Andrews SH 1940-45 I S McMullan S 1981-86 F K Cassels I 1933-37 Revd Canon D M Main (Staff 1952-73) J F H Cadman SH 1947-52 Dr WS Morton-Smith S 1966-67 M E Caney Staff 1983-99 K Naziq SH 1968-70 M A Carr JHT 1941-44 D C Neill O 1973-77 P R Cockroft DB 1944-47 R J Painter JHT 1933-37 B L Coppock I 1949-52 T J Price G 2009-14 R R Evans Ch 1950-55 A W S Ratcliff DB 1948-49 H Gibson I 1940-44 C M Rodier I 1957-61 H P Gough SH 1933-38 M C Sharp S 1951-56 M Hagger wife of A J Hagger (Staff 1946-74) K Thomas S 1943-47 J C Horrocks R 1940-44 S G M Thompson SH 1951-54 J F Howe O 1944-48 J M H Tilbury M 1945-50 J R Kirby Rt 1936-41 J Tupper wife of The Rev M H Tupper (Staff 1948-79) M P Lewis DB 1944-46 J A Vachell S 1958-62 J Mackinnon Staff 1955 and 1972 M D Whitworth SH 1939-43

posting until the day I left the Army in 1983 that Elizabeth sacrificed her more promising career to follow me round the world. There followed a period of hard times for Elizabeth as, at the end of the Staff College course, I was posted unaccompanied to Northern Ireland for two years. Then, thankfully, in 1976 we were back on the roller-coaster of moves together; a short stay in both Germany and Catterick before going out to Hong Kong, which she loved. The role and importance of officers’ wives in the Army were always underrated. When the soldiers went away, it was the responsibility of the Officers’ wives to look after all the wives and families left behind. Not an easy task, but one that Elizabeth had a natural instinct for and found very rewarding. After leaving the Army, I received an invitation from Simon Langdale, the Headmaster, to fill a post at Shrewsbury School. This was in June 1983. Elizabeth, after spells teaching part-time at the Shrewsbury Girls High School, the Sixth Form College and the College of Art and Technology was Elizabeth (Liz) Caney (Staff 1983-99) offered a post in the Mathematics Department at Shrewsbury The following eulogy was given by Liz’s husband, Stephen: School. We had moved to Atcham and the quality of life was Elizabeth – for so she always was known to her sisters, Sue something we had not experienced before; a settled home and Kath, and to me – had a very happy family life mainly and Elizabeth fully back in a career that she loved. Not only in Llandaff but also in the family farm in Carmarthenshire. that, but a routine started for Elizabeth; first, it was swimming She was very proud to be Welsh and always wore her at 6.30 in the morning with three colleagues at the School daffodil every St David’s Day. She was educated at Howells which, on retirement, continued with gym, swimming, pilates, School, Llandaff and then at the University College of Wales, spinning every morning at Bannatynes and gaining another Aberystwyth where she read Pure and Applied Mathematics group of very close friends. and was then awarded the Sir Garrod Thomas Scholarship Elizabeth, now in full-time teaching at Shrewsbury, became to proceed to post graduate study in Statistics. At University a House Tutor and was given a number of boys to whom and thereafter she was Liz to all her many friends. We met she was a personal Tutor. They all loved her and, more at University in October 1958: my first term but Elizabeth’s important, she loved them and was interested in them, second year, and we have been together ever since. Our 50th their interests, their families: everything about them. Later wedding anniversary was celebrated in 2013, in the gardens I became Second Master. This meant that in term time of Magdalen College, Oxford. we moved into the Second Master’s house in Kennedy After university, Elizabeth moved to London and worked for Road, Kingsland. Elizabeth had always been a wonderful British Insulated Calendar Cables, now called Balfour Beatty, home entertainer, throughout our time in the Army and in their research department. By chance, I was posted to at Shrewsbury School. It was a tacit arrangement that the Chelsea Barracks, so we lived in London for two years. Headmaster would entertain the great and the good outside After our time in London, I was posted to Malaya for four the School and that we would entertain the Staff and the years, first with the Gurkhas and then the King’s Shropshire School Prefects. She also loved entertaining our tutees. Light Infantry. Simon was born in 1966 in the British Military Elizabeth loved all this and so did all who came to our Hospital in Penang, now Penang University. It was from this houses, as is evident in over 250 letters that I have received. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 89

It was a most wonderful period in our lives and we always drive those in need to and from the surgery; Treasurer of hugely acknowledged our good fortune. the Forum on Homelessness under Bishop Ronnie Bowlby But the greatest love of her life were her children, Simon and, of course, most of all, continuing to teach at home in and Sarah. She nurtured them from babyhood through the kitchen and in the School Houses, individually, both girls school to University. She was, in her distinctive quiet way, and boys from Shrewsbury, Rugby, Harrow, Stowe, Repton, so proud of their achievements. So proud that both achieved Moreton Hall, Uppingham and many other schools…..and good degrees, and Doctorates. She was quietly proud too her excitement when the results came out. Excitement for the when Simon became a Fellow and Tutor at Magdalen boys and girls; not for herself. College, Oxford and Sarah a Lecturer at Bristol University As all the letters say: Elizabeth was intelligent, interesting, Veterinary School and her subsequent careers in the same interested, caring, elegant (the shoes, the handbags, the field in Edinburgh. She and I were both thrilled when Simon sunglasses on her head as a hairband whether daytime or married his College friend, Joanna, in their College, Merton, midnight), never saying anything unkind about anyone. She and married by my brother, Robert. And we were equally loved life. She particularly loved Fridays as the routine was thrilled when Sarah married Brendan here in this, Elizabeth’s always the same. There would be a bottle of champagne in favourite church. Her children, her wider family and her the fridge and at half past six in the evening, we would open grandchildren were all at the centre of her love. it and drink a couple of glasses to remember the good life She had other interests: singing in a Shrewsbury choir; that we had been so lucky to enjoy together. Every Friday! appointed by the Lord-Lieutenant to be on the Magistrates’ What a wonderful life she had. And what a wonderful life she Selection Panel, which she did for nine years; Chair of the gave us. All of us. Mytton Oak Surgery Good Neighbours which arranged to

Hugh Gough (SH 1933-38) Hugh was always proud to have been educated at Shrewsbury School and was grateful for the firm foundation it gave him. Indeed, his interests in Latin and Greek (for which he won a school prize) together with choral church music and running went on to inspire much of his leisure-time pursuits as he grew to adulthood. On leaving School House, he was destined to go to Oxford but the outbreak of World War II put an end to this ambition, and so after the war years he became an Articled Clerk and then a Solicitor, practising in Mold, North Wales where he also undertook the role of Under Sherriff for some 40 years. In 1954 he married Linda Smith, a local musician, and they had one daughter, Clare, who continued the family tradition and became a music teacher. Following Linda’s sudden death in 2003, Hugh moved south to live with Clare in Reading, where he was affectionately known to all her friends as The Butler! It was with great courage and a firm Christian faith that at the age of 83, he went on to make a new life, without any self-pity and only the happiest of memories of what he always called a ‘marriage made in heaven’. He died peacefully at the age of 95, strengthened by the Rites of the Catholic Church.

Margaret Hagger – before colour supplements and TV programmes made that normal. Margaret also contributed to school life by assisting In February we received the sad news of the death of with the production of plays and by passing on her knowledge Margaret Hagger at the age of 101, widow of Arnold Hagger, of canoeing, in which sport she was an expert judge. a former Second Master. In her later years, she not only looked after Arnold through a Sina Margaret Leith-Ross was born on 7th January 1915, the long illness, but also acted as parent to her grandson, Allistair. second child of Sir Frederick Leith-Ross, a Treasury civil She carried out these responsibilities with a maximum of care servant, and Prudence Leith-Ross. She was educated for a and a minimum of fuss. She was well into her sixties when time in a French school, where she acquire a command of she became secretary to the Music School, the first to hold the language and a taste for all things French which never that position, bringing to the role a blend of brisk efficiency left her. She went up to Oxford to read French Literature and dry humour. and there she met Arnold Hagger, who was preparing to become a teacher. The war intervened, however, and Arnold In retirement, she continued to live independently for many joined the Royal Air Force, which resulted in a fairly nomadic more years in the house in Canonbury, before ending her lifestyle for the couple. days in residential care. In the nature of things, it cannot be expected that a centenarian’s funeral will be attended by After the war, Arnold took up a position teaching Maths at contemporaries, but in her long life Margaret had touched the Shrewsbury, where he and Margaret were to remain (when lives of many and her generosity and her indomitable spirit not in France) for the rest of their lives. It was a feature of the were recognised by a large congregation in the Crematorium Hagger household that they entertained regularly, performing Chapel, gathered to express their gratitude and their a particular service by inviting new members of staff to admiration. dine with established colleagues. Francophile that she was, Margaret introduced a French flavour to her excellent cooking 90 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

John Horrocks (R 1940-44) John Horrocks was born in Southport in May 1926, the youngest of three brothers. His father owned a very successful colour printing business with his uncle. At Shrewsbury, John enjoyed all sports, especially diving. He would dive competitively, collecting plates from the bottom of the pool. After serving in the Royal Navy, and having been stationed in Sydney and Brisbane during World War II, he realised that for reasons of health he could not live in England. He met Sheila at her sister’s 21st birthday. They were married in 1953 and moved to Australia almost immediately. They lived for a short while in Fairlight and then found land in Seaforth and built their home there, overlooking the water. They had four children, Mark, Jeremy, Sue and Tim. After working in the textile industry, John was introduced to the Insurance industry by his neighbour and found that this was his calling. He had a very successful business as an Insurance agent with National Mutual. He and Sheila loved to travel and visited most parts of the globe. John retired at 61 with a calling to change the monetary system. He spent the next 29 years trying to convince governments of his economic reform. In 2011, due to Sheila’s motor neurone disease, they sold their house and moved to Neutral Bay, where Sheila sadly passed away in 2014. They had nine grandchildren. Adam, Mitchell, Jasmine, Ellen, Juliet, Zoe, Isaac, Levi and Emersyn. John was 90 on 14th May 2016, which he celebrated with all his family. He died suddenly due to a fall on Friday 12th August.

Jeremy Howe (O 1944-48) received into the Roman Catholic Church. He married Virginia in London in August 1953. Jeremy Howe was born in Blackheath, London on 9th December 1929, the son of a vicar, Lionel, and an After graduating, Jeremy joined the British Colonial Service. accomplished pianist and organist, Marjorie, who had He was asked if he wanted to work in “a hot and wet studied at the Royal College of Music. Before arriving at country” or a “hot and dry country”. He chose The Gambia Shrewsbury in 1944, he was for five years a chorister at in West Africa. His first year was spent studying law at King’s College, where he developed his great lifelong love London University and learning the Mandinka language. of music. His memoirs tell of piano duets and Sunday tea Until Gambia’s independence a decade later, Jeremy parties with Harold Darke (famed for his setting of ‘In served there as an Assistant Commissioner and Secretary the Bleak Midwinter’), as well as singing in a boarded-up for Local Government, carrying out a wide range of duties chapel from which the precious stained glass had been including those of a magistrate. When independence removed because of the danger of bombs. came, Gambia needed its own national anthem, and for this Jeremy skilfully adapted a local folk tune into an Jeremy followed both his brother, David who had left by anthem of hymn-like quality with harmonic simplicity. that time to join the army and his father, Lionel, who left Virginia wrote the words, and the anthem remains in use the school in 1908. He began learning to play the tenor to this day. Jeremy’s personal success in The Gambia was horn and played in the School band. He later progressed undoubtedly due to his overriding sense of equality and to the baritone tuba and finally the euphonium which, he fairness, irrespective of race or creed. said, “had the best parts in the many marches which we In 1964, Jeremy left the Colonial Service and returned to played”. At the same time he began to learn the French the UK. Like numerous other ex-Colonial Service staff, horn and acquired his first instrument, which he bought he decided to enter the field of university administration. for £20 with money he had raised by selling a cello which His family settled in Birmingham, and Jeremy took an he had been left in the will of a distant cousin. The band administrative position at its university in the Science and played to a high standard and when the Shropshire Light Engineering Faculty. Soon Jeremy was promoted to a more Infantry’s own band was felt to be not up scratch, they senior administrative post at the university’s Dental School, were invited to play at one of their special parades. They and subsequently he took charge of the administration of would also lead the School OTC Corps on Field Days, the university’s Medical School, working closely with NHS when they would march from the School to the railway personnel at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. station playing marches as they went, which he described as “quite demanding but a great experience”. In December 1974, with much experience gained at Birmingham University’s Medical School, Jeremy took Jeremy rowed, played football and cricket and got his up a position at Cambridge University as Secretary to its colours in cross-country running. He particularly enjoyed embryonic School of Clinical Medicine, his first task being fives and was in the first rowing eight for a time. He sang to administer its start-up. Whilst returning to Cambridge in the choir throughout his time at Shrewsbury and in his was an exciting prospect, university administration at last year he became Choregus. He described his academic Cambridge proved to be quite different from that to which record as “undistinguished”, but it was still sufficient to Jeremy had previously been accustomed. He rose to the secure him a place at Cambridge University. challenge with typical determination and, as the new Following a stint with the Royal Artillery, where he Clinical School got going and its building at the Hills Road became a 2nd Lieutenant for 18 months, he returned to Addenbrooke’s site was completed, Jeremy settled more Cambridge in October 1950 as a History undergraduate comfortably into the Cambridge scene. His final career and Choral Scholar at St John’s College. At St John’s, his move took place when he was appointed Cambridge academic studies went well, his knowledge and love of University’s Deputy Treasurer, a post which he held until music blossomed, he fell in love with Virginia Frith (then his retirement in December 1990. Jeremy nevertheless a postgraduate at Newnham College studying Classical always regarded his work to establish the Clinical School Archaeology), and he made the important decision to be as his greatest and most lasting career achievement. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 91

After retirement, as a fellow of Hughes Hall, Jeremy assisted the college to gain full collegiate status within the University of Cambridge. He also served for over 20 years as the Treasurer of the Cambridge University Catholic Association, the registered charity responsible for the upkeep and development of Fisher House, Cambridge University’s Catholic Chaplaincy. Jeremy is survived by his widow, Virginia, and five children as well as many friends and colleagues who knew him as a kind and gentle person, a person who could always be trusted and someone who was unfailingly caring, polite, loyal and scrupulously honest – throughout a long, varied and outstanding career in public service as well as in his private life.

John Kirby (Rt 1936-41) John Kirby was born in Middlesbrough in 1922. Although the Kirby family was well established in the rapidly expanding town, John’s mother owned a property in Aysgarth; Cornlee. It was this connection that resulted in him meeting the girl who would become his wife. John attended the Craig preparatory school in Windermere before following in the footsteps of his brother Peter to Shrewsbury, where he achieved the Oxford and Cambridge Joint Board School Certificate with seven ‘credits’. After spending two years at King’s College Newcastle studying electrical engineering, he received his call-up papers for war. However, a quirk of fate found him attending the enlistment office with a group of miners intent on escaping the harsh conditions of the iron stone mines to spend their war years in the coal mines of Durham. A recruiting sergeant barked the order “Right you lot, get in this queue” so John followed instructions and to his surprise found himself spending the rest of the war working underground as a ‘Bevin Boy’, firstly as an electrician at Weetslade Colliery and then for Dorman Long at Dean & Chapter Colliery as the Junior Assistant to the Chief Electrical Engineer. This post took him all around the mines of the Durham coalfield. Following the war he returned to university to complete his degree and qualified in 1948 with a BSc in Electrical Engineering, but the war years had provided some valuable hands-on experience which would serve him well throughout his career. 92 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

It was this period which gave him a deep respect for the Central Films for ‘Woman in Black’, Pinewood Studios, plus ‘working man’. many, many others. His work career started at Teesside Bridge and Engineering in Middlesbrough, where he put his practical skills to good Together with Marian, he produced a series of cassettes of use in the fabricating shop. He gained further practical bird sound which sold many thousands of copies. These are experience in patternmaking and general foundry work at still some of the highest quality recordings of bird sound ever Westinghouse Brake & Signal Company in Chippenham made, a testament to John’s determination to be the best in before moving back to the north-east to take employment his field. with the British Electricity Authority in Darlington. In the early 60s he was the compere of a BBC radio wildlife In 1953, John and Marian moved to Middlesbrough, where he programme called ‘Sound’ which was broadcast on the commenced a long career with Dorman Long which would Home Service on Sunday every two weeks. He was the last until his retirement in 1980. Vice President of ECHO, a French-based international Although John was a keen botanist, he had a great love bio-acoustic institute, and he supplied and maintained the for wildlife and in particular birds. He was inspired by recording equipment in the Osprey nest at the RSPB’s Loch Ludovic Koch, a pioneer of bird sound recording. John Garten Reserve. was a perfectionist and it was this attribute that led him to Norway played a major part in his life. His first trip was made become one of the leading wildlife sound recordists of his in 1936 with his parents. He returned to the Flam Valley with day. He manufactured his first tape recorder from an old his older sister Mary in 1938 for ‘winter sports’ where they gramophone and with this made his first sound recording of stayed at the Vatnahalsen Hotel at the head of the valley. a cuckoo in his garden in Darlington in March 1951. He went He continued to visit Norway on a regular basis with Marian on to make the first ever recording of a Whooper Swan. His and continued to go back to Flam and the Vatnahalsen Hotel sound recording took him all round the UK and in particular where they had established some close friends in the local to Shetland and its sea birds. It was this connection which community. After Marian died he made five more trips to would see his son Matthew marry a Shetland lass, and his Norway on his own, with his son Matthew acting as tour granddaughters have Norse blood running in their veins. operator arranging all the flights and transfers. He was always Television and film companies were hungry for natural sound warmly received by the owners and staff at Vatnahalsen and to add to the reality of their work and John’s recordings was treated like royalty. became in heavy demand. He and Marian built up close In his 80s he mastered the use of a laptop, although it did relationships with many production teams to provide high present certain ‘frustrations’, and at the age of 86 he mastered quality bird sound for many film companies including: the use of the mobile phone. He was a prolific photographer Thames Television, Channel 4, Anglia Television and their and mastered the use of digital photography. It was a cruel ‘Survival’ series, The BBC, for their ‘Natural World’ series, fate that a person so deeply involved in sound recording was The RSPB, London Weekend Television, Central Television, to suffer from hearing loss in his later years. But the mobile for the ‘Nature Watch’ series with Bill Oddie, EMI Studios in phone provided the answer, Texting, another skill learned in the making of ‘Local Hero’, Yorkshire TV for ‘Emmerdale’, later life. With this he was able to keep in touch with family Granada TV for ‘Sherlock Holmes: Hound of the Baskervilles’, wherever they were.

Malcolm Lewis (DB 1944-46) Malcolm Lewis was born and initially educated in Coventry. He moved to Betws y Coed in 1940 to escape the heavy bombing in his home city. Gaining a place at Shrewsbury in 1943, he spent two happy years at the school as a day boy before returning to the family home in Coventry in 1945 to achieve matriculation. His whole working life was spent in pensions and superannuation, despite having a gained a place to read law. He married in 1963 and remained in Coventry until his death. He was particularly involved in three institutions: the local Golf Club, of which he was a member for 50 years; the Coventry Philharmonic Choir (60 years), through which he met his wife; and the local Baptist church, of which he was variously Deacon, Secretary, Treasurer and Lay Preacher.

Jock Mackinnon (Staff 1955 and 1972) Jock Alexander Mackinnon was one of the exclusive group During his two terms at Shrewsbury he taught History and of colleagues who were appointed to the Shrewsbury staff English, and his son Richard became a member of Day Boys, more than once. An Australian, of Scottish descent, he was where he remained while his father moved on for a final born in 1928 and having taken his B.A. degree at Sydney term at Rugby. As a result of a flying visit to Australia for University, subsequently matched by a similar degree at Clare an interview, Jock was appointed Headmaster of Pulteney College, Cambridge, he came to Shrewsbury in 1955 for a Grammar School, Adelaide and he took up the appointment brief sojourn of six months, to become the Form Master of immediately after his return. the History Remove. After ten years in Adelaide he was invited by the Bishop of Returning to Australia, he taught at Cranbrook School and Canberra to build a new Anglican School. He developed Guildford Grammar School and subsequently became Radford Grammar School and was Headmaster for the Headmaster of Illawarra School, New South Wales. Deciding, first five years there. This was his crowning achievement. in 1972, that he needed a change, he sailed again for the He subsequently became heavily involved in government UK, this time with his wife Elizabeth and their four children, committees for educational administration and in voluntary without any firm prospect of a job: but in a period of just work; and he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in over a year in England, he taught at Banbury Comprehensive recognition of all these services. He died in July 2016. School, at Shrewsbury and at Rugby. OLD SALOPIAN NEWS 93

homework each night. It was thanks to this, Rob says, that he got into Cambridge. (And thanks to Khalid also, some years later, that Rob met his wife, Lindsay, a cousin of John Ryle, who Khalid invited as a blind date for Rob at an Old Salopian dinner.) Khalid was awarded a scholarship to Trinity College, Oxford. Here, in 1974, he graduated in Engineering Science and Economics. That year, he and John Ryle travelled overland in a black VW Beetle from Oxford to Muzaffargarh, through Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan along the so-called ‘Hippie Trail’; it was the last year it was possible to make such a journey. Khalid spent a decade working as a civil engineer on large- scale projects in the UK, the Middle East and Africa. Later he switched careers and became an investment banker, working for Wood McKenzie, Kleinwort Benson and UBS in the UK. He was also a founding director of AKD Securities in Pakistan Khalid Nazir (SH 1968-70) where he helped execute the first reverse acquisition and Khalid Nazir was born on 27th May 1952 in Alipur, Pakistan, first hostile acquisition on the Karachi Stock Exchange. He the eldest of seven children. His father was an accountant in went on to become the Head of Investment Banking for Abu government service and his mother worked as a seamstress. Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB). He was raised in Muzaffargarh, in the heart of the Punjab, In his mid-fifties, he changed careers again, working in the where water buffalo were a more familiar sight than cars. energy sector on projects in Pakistan and the Middle East. There was no electricity in the house; Khalid’s curiosity and Finally, unable to sit idle during his retirement, he started a desire to learn led him to study after dark by the light of a consultancy firm in Dubai. street lamp outside. In 1988, Khalid married Celia Brown in Edinburgh. They His uncle sent him to Lawrence College, in the foothills of had three daughters, Sara, Ayesha and Mariya. The children the Himalayas – an elite school on the English public school were raised in Pakistan and Bahrain and – after their parents model. From Lawrence College, Khalid won a scholarship to separated in the 1990s – in the UAE, where Khalid lived Shrewsbury, arriving in 1968 at the age of 16. It was the first for the remainder of his life with his children. Despite his time he had left Pakistan. demanding career, he was completely dedicated to his family, He loved England – except for the cold weather and the to his children, his parents and his siblings. In Muzaffagarh he unfamiliar food. A patriarchal upbringing meant that he had built them a magnificent home, calling it ‘Lalazar’, the garden never boiled a kettle. In fact, he maintained, he had never of flowers. even set foot in a kitchen. In Shrewsbury he worked out how Khalid was an honest, generous, lively, loyal and kind- to prepare food working on first principles, using a borrowed hearted person. His positive outlook and unfaltering sense of stove with recipe book in hand. He took to cookery with humour, his inquisitive nature and seemingly endless store confidence and style. John Ryle (DB 1966-70) and Rob of knowledge made his company a constant pleasure. He Wylie (SH 1966-70) were among the beneficiaries, sharing passed away on 17th September in Edinburgh, where his the kheema, daal and naan that Khalid prepared in John’s sister Sheena and her husband Michael looked after him for mother’s kitchen. the last months of his life, surrounded by his siblings and his Rob was Khalid’s room-mate in School House during children. Meri abadi pe koi na roi were his parting words to their A-level years; both were in the science stream. In the them. Don’t cry; I am free. months leading up to exams they tested each other on their John Ryle and Rob Wylie

Albert (‘Bertie’) Ratcliff (DB 1948-49) George wrote to the War Office for permission for his family Bertie Ratcliff was born on 12th November 1931 at the Military to visit their grandparents in Jersey soon after Liberation. This Hospital, Catterick. His parents were William and Helen was granted and Bertie, Valerie and their mother were on the Davies, née Le Claire. Bertie’s father was a sergeant in the East second aircraft to land in Jersey following the Occupation. (The Surrey Regiment and died aged 27 when Bertie was 13 months first to land carried Harley Street surgeons, directed to inspect old. Bertie and his mother went to live in Exeter. An aunt the German’s underground hospital). There was no airfield and offered to adopt Bertie as she and her husband were about to they landed on the sands. leave for Canada, but Helen refused; she would manage on Bertie was a very caring person, an ardent bibliophile who her own – and so she did. could be seen daily in Tunbridge Wells bookshops. Sadly, Six years later, Helen married George Ratcliff, who was an Bertie suffered several unexplained falls; in retrospect excellent step-father, treating Bertie as his own. George these were signs of his decline. He always retained fond subsequently sent him to Shrewsbury School and thence to memories of Shrewsbury; in his final months when he was the RMA, Sandhurst. However, army life was not for Bertie and quite weak, he rallied strongly when shown photographs of he chose to become a civilian again, obtaining a post with the school and town. Thames Water Board in London. In due course, he married Yvonne; they had a son, Grant, and lived in East Grinstead. At his funeral, Bertie’s grandson, William Davies Ratcliff read Following their divorce, he then moved to Tunbridge Wells. Psalm 23. Bertie’s brother-in-law, Peter Summerton, recalled his Bertie had a sister, Valerie, whom he taught to ride her bicycle, love for both Shropshire and Shrewsbury, reading the much play cricket – and to row on the River Severn. loved Poem 40 from A E Housman’s ‘A Shropshire Lad.’ 94 OLD SALOPIAN NEWS

Nicholas Ridley (DB 1954-59) In 1979, Ridley was again serving in Northern Ireland, when the IRA ambushed a convoy of soldiers near Warrenpoint. Brigadier Nicholas Ridley had a distinguished career in the The attack left 18 dead, including his Commanding Officer in Army, most notably in Northern Ireland, where he displayed a second explosion. Ridley was appointed to take over and great courage in the most dangerous circumstances. He was was widely praised for his leadership in a tense situation. born on 25th March 1941 at Quetta (now in Pakistan) into a military family, his father having been an officer in the Central After the Falklands War, he was garrison commander in Port Indian Horse and his mother the daughter of a general. Stanley, tasked with restoring the battle-scarred community to His maternal grandfather was also a general. He attended normality. Already MBE, he was advanced to OBE in 1983. Shrewsbury from 1954, entering as a Music Scholar. His final posting was as deputy commandant at the Royal He was commissioned from Sandhurst in 1962 and was first Military College of Science at Shrivenham, after which he posted to the Far East, where he saw active service in Brunei, made a successful career in charitable fundraising, including Borneo and Sarawak. After a spell in Berlin as an Intelligence for the Highlander Regimental Museum at Inverness. Officer, he was sent to Northern Ireland, where he was based Music Scholar that he was, he carried his interest into service in the notorious ‘Bandit Country’ of South Armagh. Shortly life. He encouraged regimental piping and the singing of after his arrival, he had his first experience of the ever-present Gaelic, and as guest of honour at a regimental function, he danger, when a bomb exploded as his patrol was passing. sang ‘March of the Cameron Men’ accompanied on a Celtic One of his men was killed in the attack. Soon after that harp which had belonged to his grandfather. incident, Ridley led a successful – and extremely hazardous – His wife, Sue, predeceased him, as did one of his daughters. expedition to capture three terrorists. He is survived by a daughter and a son.

Keith Thomas (S 1943-47) Keith Thomas entered Shrewsbury in 1943, where he took This enabled him to form his own company, which had great interest in all sport. After leaving school, he went always been his dream. Keith Thomas Ltd was formed in directly into the Army to do his National Service. Amongst 1980 and ran successfully until 2001, when it was sold to other things he spent many hours shooting on Salisbury Plain. one of its suppliers. Keith then went to Keble College, Oxford to study languages, When Keith formed the company, his was of the opinion He was made a Golf Blue in his first term. He represented that it was possible to have a place where employees looked the University Golf Team throughout his time there, spending forward to their working day, without politics and back- summer vacations in France and Italy with his team. stabbing. He achieved that and instilled confidence and self- Much of his youth was spent on Borth and Ynslas Golf worth into all his staff. Courses, where he was later made an honorary life member. Keith met his wife Judith at Venus Packaging and they had a He became a Welsh Amateur International in 1951 and the wonderful life together with their two daughters, Alexandra Danish Andrew Open Champion in 1953. and Abigail. Both the girls inherited their father’s genes and After university, Keith moved to Nottinghamshire to join became successful business and sports women. After 43 years Venus Packaging Ltd, enjoying the exciting growth of in Malvern, Keith and Judith moved to Surrey to be nearer polythene and polypropylene products. He was made Sales the girls and their families. Director and, after several years, moved to Malvern to join Keith was passionately proud of his school. He was a true a small company, Sander Packaging Lit. He spent 11 years gentleman and a fine and principled man. He lived for those there, helping to build it up and then sold his share. he loved, and those he loved will always remember.

Jane Tupper Her father had been appointed housemaster of Churchill’s Hall when he returned from service in the war, and then they On Port Hill Road in Shrewsbury there is a house that used to moved into School House in 1948. When she returned to be known as Closefield. It is now lived in by David Gee and Shrewsbury during her university holidays, her father would more prosaically known by its number, 43. It was, then, a very often ask for her help with the boys’ end of term accounts – small house and was bought for Tom Bradshaw and Mary a chore that he disliked, even though he taught maths and Taylor when they married in late August 1929. Jane Tupper physics. Jane, on the other hand, was extremely numerate and was born there in January 1931, Mark followed shortly after willing to help. and when Marianne made her appearance a few years later the house was deemed too small so the family moved to Clinton She left London University with a good degree and became in Kennedy Road and subsequently Bryn Derwen also on what was then called an ‘almoner’ in Manchester. She used to Kennedy Road. talk of the time she worked in a children’s home where she said the children were kept in pyjamas all day to stop them Shrewsbury School grounds were a paradise for staff children from running away. This experience must have had quite an when Jane was a child. She happily, and safely, roamed the influence on her thinking; she retained a very strong social site after school and during the holidays, enjoying the freedom conscience for the rest of her life, always aware of the needs and the companionship of lots of other similar aged children. of the under-privileged, always concerned that as a society we She went to Shrewsbury High School and then as a boarder didn’t do enough for those who had so little. to Howells School, Denbigh, which she enjoyed hugely. She was naturally gregarious and made friends easily; she was also After her father’s untimely death in 1952, just a month after the clever and won a place at Bedford College, London University death of King George VI, Michael Tupper, a young assistant to read Sociology. chaplain, was asked to help run School House until permanent