APRIL 1977 STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Patron THE PRIME WARDEN OF THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF GOLDSMITHS

Governors J. C. MOULT. ESQ., Chairman D. BLANK, ESQ., LL.B., Vice-Chairman ]. H. AVERY, ESQ., M.A. COUNCILLOR MRS. E. A. MOSLEY, LIEUT.-COL. J. A. CHRISTIE-MILLER, O.B.E., J.P. C.B.E., T.D., D.L. PROFESSOR H. H. ROSENBROCK, COUNCILLOR R. G. CROOK, Ph.D., D.Sc., F.I.E.E., M.I.Chem.E. A.C.I.I., F.C.I.B. H. SIDEBOTHAM, ESQ., LL.M. COUNCILLOR E. D. FOULKES, LL.B. MRS. J. P. SINCLAIR THE REV. CANON W. GARLICK, J. S. SOUTHWORTH, ESQ. M.A., B.Sc. THE WORSHIPFUL THE MAYOR W. A. KERSHAW, ESQ. OF STOCKPORT COUNCILLOR T. B. LECK, J.P. WG.-CDR. J. M. GILCHRIST, M.B.E. COUNCILLOR J. G. LEE (Clerk to the Governors) COUNCILLOR J. A. McCARRON, B.A.

Headmaster F. W. SCOTT, M.A.

Second Master D. J. ROBERTS, M.A.

Staff C. R. DALTON, D.L.C., B.A. MRS. S. M. MELLOR, M.A., M.Sc. MRS. A. L. DAVIES, B.A. R. J. NASH, B.A. I. G. DURNALL, B.Sc., F.R.G.S. MRS. S. C. RENSHAW, B.Sc. }. G. GOSLING H. D. ROBINSON, B.A. R. L. HAND, M.Sc. D. SHORT, B.Sc. A. C. HEATH, B.Sc. P. SHUFFLEBOTTOM, B.A. D. HEFFER, B.Sc. A. P. SMITH, B.A. N. G. HENSHALL, M.A. I. T. STANLEY, D.A. W. HERMAN, M.A. J. M. SWALLOW, M.A. K. A. HOLLIN, M.Sc., Ph.D. R. M. TAYLOR, M.A. I. D. HOLLOWS M. G. THATCHER, M.A. P. J. HOLMES, B.A., M.Sc.,Ph.D. J. J. TOWERS, B.A. L. P. KYNASTON A. E. WHITTAKER, M.Sc. D. S. MARTIN, B.A. A. M. WRIGHT, B.Sc. J. MARTIN, B.Sc., Ph.D. MISS S. M. J. VOLK, B.A.

Junior School R. D. H. REEMAN, B.A., Master in Charge MRS. V. C. BOLDING, M.A. MRS. J. ROBINSON, B.A. MRS. D. COLCLOUGH P. ROEBUCK, B.Sc. MRS. M. E. HOAD, B.A. MRS. P. A. SPILLER, B.A.

Bursar: WG.-CDR. J. M. GILCHRIST, M.B.E.

Senior Prefect: J. E. F. BARROW

Vice- Captains: W. R. HARDY, R. J. HOOLEY

Prefects: S. J. ALLEN, M. R. KNOWLES D. R. BATHAM I. MARSHALL D. S. BENGER I. M. RADFORD C. P. BENNETT I. D. RIGG P. M. CROALL S. J. ROBERTS M. J. GREGG A. P. STUBBS R. J. HASZELDINE D. H. W. TURNER M. W. HODGSON D. F. WHITE R. M. HUMBLES J. C. WRIGHT CONTENTS

EDITORIAL DE OMNIBUS REBUS 2

ORIGINAL ARTICLES COUNCILLOR WALTER KNIGHT 5 COUNCILLOR LEONARD SMITH 6 J. H. AVERY 6 DURHAM 1976 7 CORSICA 1976 7 TRAVELS WITHOUT A DONKEY 9 LUDWIGSBURG 1976 10 THE EASTER CRUISE 1976 10 SALCOMBE 1976 10 THE END OF AN ERA - GREECE 1976 11 BEZIERS 1976 12 WASDALE 1976 13

THE SOCIAL SIDE 550 SQAUADRON, A.T.C 14 CHESS CLUB 15 BRIDGE CLUB 15 DEBATING AND LITERARY SOCIETY 16 VENTURERS 16 DRAMATIC SOCIETY 17 LIBRARY REPORT 17 MATHEMATICAL SOCIETY 17 PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY 18 RAILWAY SOCIETY 18 BUSINESS GAME 19 MUSIC 19 WARGAMES SOCIETY 20 SIXTH FORM COMMON ROOM 20

SPORTS AND GAMES RUGBY 21 LACROSSE 24 CRICKET 26 TENNIS 28

ROUND THE HOUSES ARDEN 29 NICHOLSON 30 VERNON 31 WARREN 32

JUNIOR SCHOOL 33

OLD STOPFORDIANS' ASSOCIATION 34 THE STOPFORDIAN Editor: No 121 J. C. WRIGHT February, 1977 EDITORIAL Since the last appearance of this magazine in December 1975 the school has seen many changes. Some of these have come from within, others from without. For the first time the boys we welcome into the first-forms in September are without the benefits of the Direct Grant. The full effects of this situation have yet to make themselves felt, yet we are confident that the school can pass through this difficult period of transition not onfy with its stature undiminished but even with new achievements to its credit. We should regard it not as a time when the validity of our past accomplishments is to be put to the test, but as a time which offers a golden opportunity for the attainment of new ones. The staff has undergone many arrivals and departures. This is, in itself, a healthy sign and shows that the school is still very much an evolving and expanding institution. In the last edition of the Stopfordian we bade farewell to Mr. Johnston, Mr. Morris and Mr. Cassie. In the present edition it is to Mr. Avery, a master whose contribution to the school has been no less immense, that we must say goodbye. We wish Mr. Roberts well in his appointment as second master and extend a cordial welcome to all those members of staff who have come, for the first time, or returned, after long absence, to the school during the last twelve months. Finally, I would like to thank my colleagues on the magazine committee, which, this year, has consisted of Roger Hooley, Mark Knowles, Ian Radford, John Oldham and John Evans. Special thanks are due to Mr. Roberts who has given us invaluable advice and assistance. J.C.W. Page One DE OMNIBUS REBUS

GOVERNORS We regret to announce the deaths of two Governors, Councillor W. C. Knight and Councillor L. Smith. Articles appear below. Canon R. Simpson, formerly Rector of St. Mary's Church, Stockport, and Rural Dean, has retired from the Board and we thank him for his service to the School. We have known him in many capacities, as a parent, as Rector of St. Mary's conducting the Founder's Day service, as staff representative on the Governing Body, and latterly as a co-opted member. We have shared in his joy over his son's work for the Church in Africa. (Robert, 1943/53, gave the Founder's Day address in 1968.) We wish Canon Simpson a continued happy retirement. We welcome to the Board Councillor J. Harvey Cooke, J.P., the Mayor of Stockport, and Councillor E. D. Foulkes, representing the Metropolitan Borough, and Councillor J. G. Lee, representing Cheshire County Council. We welcome back Mr. J. H. Avery, who has been appointed the staff representa- tive in place of Canon W. Garlick, who happily remains on the Board as a co-opted member. The staff are grateful to him for the time and service he has given to them.

STAFF Last summer Mr. Avery retired. An article appears below. Four other masters left in July for other schools. Mr. J. W. Dickenson moved to Sale, Mr. J. Gowan to Ilkley, Mr. K. I. Mathieson to Diss and Mr. M. S. Whalley to Bredbury. At Christmas Mr. I. D. Johnson moved to Hazel Grove. We thank them all for their work at the School and offer them our best wishes for the future. We welcome seven new members of staff. Mr. R. L. Hand of Bristol and Sheffield Universities comes to us from Manchester Grammar School as Head of Physics; Mr. R. M. Taylor of Oxford University, an Old Stopfordian, comes from Leeds Grammar School as Head of English; Mr. J. J. Towers of Durham University, from Bishop Wordsworth's School, Salisbury, is Director of Music; Mrs. S. M. Mellor of Oxford and Liverpool Universities teaches Biology; Mr. R. J. Nash of Cambridge University teaches English; Mr. D. S. Martin of Oxford University comes from Long Eaton Grammar School to teach Geography; Miss S. M. J. Volk of Birmingham University teaches English and History. We also welcome back Mrs. J. Samuelson, who is teaching Geography two afternoons a week. We congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Shufflebottom oh their marriage in the Christmas holiday. We also congratulate Dr. Holmes on the award of the Ph.D. degree of Cambridge University and Mr. Dalton on that of B.A. Of the Open University. Our oldest retired member of staff, Mrs. C. A. Edge, died last May aged ninety-seven. She taught in the Junior Forms of the new School from 1917 to 1933 and saw her son, Leonard, (1915/23), achieve distinction in Mathematics as Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, and Professor at Edinburgh. We also regret to record the deaths of Mrs. Goddard in April and Mrs. Varley in October. Page Two COUNCILLOR WALTER C. KNIGHT J. H. AVERY T. K.Dunham BOYS Paul Gringras of 3A has been awarded a testimonial by the Royal Humane Society for bravery in rescuing his younger brother Clive from drowning in a deep pool in North Wales. Last winter Jackson again played for England at rugby; Holt and Mayall played against Baltimore at lacrosse and Goodson played for the North against the South. In the summer Pagan played for Cheshire at tennis; at cricket Cash played for England Schools, Taylor for the North of England, Torkington, Caro, Reeman and Beesley for various Cheshire teams.

THE FUTURE The School has entered its first year of independence with every sign of strength and confidence. The daily life of the School does not appear to have changed. The Stopfordian Trust has been formed to gather and hold funds initially to finance bursaries, and generous gifts have already been received. Other gifts from industry, charitable trusts and individuals have been made for a variety of purposes. They include a generous grant from the Hallam Trust, which is being used for the purchase of teaching equipment. On July 2nd a Grand Reunion will be held to which we invite all Old Stopfordians. We hope to have the School filled with exhibitions, to produce a play for the occasion, and on the same day to enjoy the O.S. Barbecue. Such a reunion in the year 1977 will, of course, commemorate our 490th anniversary. There are only ten years to the half millenium. The guest at Speech Day on the following Friday, July 8th, will be the Prime Warden elect of the Gold- smith's Company, Mr. Algernon Asprey.

OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE ADMISSIONS 1977 (to date) Congratulations to the boys and masters concerned:

S. A. Parker, Open Scholarship in History (for Law), Emmanuel, Cambridge; J. C. Wright, Open Exhibition in English, Pembroke College, Cambridge; D. S. Benger, Music, St. Catherine's College, Cambridge; W. R. Hardy, Mathematics, Pembroke College, Oxford; A. D. Hearle, Engineering, St. John's College, Cambridge. Page Three UNIVERSITIES 1976

Aston Kirby, R. J.—Chelsea (Applied Pagan, K. M. (Quant. Surveying) Biology) Bangor Tozer, R. D.—Westminster Eyre, C. J. (Zoology) (Medicine) Lowe, S. C. (Forestry) Loughborough Pettengell, G. D. (Agriculture) Jenkins, D. R. (Textiles) Manchester Birmingham Allen, J. S. (Zoology) Citron, P. E. A. (Law) Downie, C. J. C. (Medicine) Coleman, R. J. (Law) Hudson, M. J. (Biochemistry) Croall, S. H. (Biological Science) Johnstone, D. I.—UMIST (Polym. Hayden, P. D. (Law) Science) Kendall, J. D. (Accountancy) Mills, J. N. (Computer Science) Bradford Pattison, M. (Law) Peck, G. J. (Business Studies) Newcastle Stephens, M. D. (European Studies) Seed, C. J. (History) Thoburn, R. F. (Ecpn. & Politics) Nottingham Thomason, D. (Business Studies) Roberts, S. J. (Industrial Economics) Cambridge Ball, J. G.—Christ's (Classics Oxford Exhib.) Goulden, M. J.—Pembroke (P.P.E.) Bolton, I.—Selwyn (Vet. Science) Jones, R.—Pembroke (Biochemistry) Dunn, C. F.—Caius (Law) Longshaw, P. J.—St. Peter's— Harris, J.H.—St. Catharines (History) (English) Holmes, P. J.—Queen's (Law) Le Poidevin, A. D.—Exeter (P.P.E.) Kelly, H. N.—Emmanuel Salford (Engineering) Bennett, S. P. (Mech. Engineering) Lomas, D. J.—Emmanuel (Medicine) Nuttall, P. C. (Geography) Mason, A. C.—Caius Radford, H. M. (Applied Biology) (Medicine, Scholarship) Sheffield Morrell, R. I.—Emmanuel Battrick, J. L. (Economics) (Mathematics) Harrison, T. D. (Social Science) Smith, C. R. B.—Magdalene Hicks, D. J. (Politics) (Engineering) Nixon, A. D. (Accountancy) Stewart, A. F.—Fitzwilliam POLYTECHNICS (Medicine) Stratton, R. J.—Emmanuel (Law, Brighton History Scholarship) Bennett, P. A. (Architecture) Wright, A. G.—Caius (Architecture) Manchester Heriot-Watt (Edinburgh) Brown, M. (Accountancy) Corlett, R. I. (Arch. Landscape) Eccles, S. R. (Printing) Ensor, J. A. (General Arts) Hull Hartley, N. (Business Studies) Mather, J. (French & History) Woodall, N. R. (History) Middlesex Hopkin, R. G. (Finance & Leicester Accountancy) Booth, P. I. D. (Mining Geology) Oxford Liverpool Lee, N. J. (Est. Management) Young, B. R. (Elect. Engineering) Leicester London Kenyon, A. J. (Architecture) Battersby, T. W.—Institute of Archaeology (1977) Liverpool Hill, N. C. W.—U.C.H. (Medicine) Titterton, P. J. (Business Studies) Jackson, P.—St. Mary's (Medicine) Huddersfield Khan, A. A.—Westminster Hill, C. J. (Building) (Medicine) Sadler, P. J. (Arts)

Page Four COUNCILLOR WALTER KNIGHT

I find it very sad to record the death of Councillor Walter Knight, J.P., my colleague on the Board of Governors for many years who died on Christmas Sunday, his 62nd birthday. On behalf of all associated with the School I offer sympathy to Mrs. Knight, her daughters and their families. Councillor Knight's life of service to Stockport has been recorded else- where. Suffice to say he served as Councillor for 30 years, becoming Alderman of the Borough in 1961 and Mayor of the town, in which capacity he laid the foundation stone for the new School Hall in 1968. Latterly he was leader of the Stockport Metropolitan Council. The town of Stockport to which he unselfishly gave so much will be greatly the poorer for his passing. Despite a very active business and political life Walter Knight always remembered his indebtedness to the School for the early character forming and academic training which he received there. He was completely devoted to his Alma Mater and he was always seen with a red carnation in his buttonhole frequently alongside his Old Stopfordian tie. Walter Knight achieved inter- national distinction as a florist, succeeding his father in the family business in Edgeley and became World President of the Interflora organisation travelling widely abroad during his year of office. Business, I believe, could well have prevented Walter Knight from becoming a County Lacrosse player as he had to retire from the game before the war when characteristically displaying considerable promise as a steady and reliable defence player for the Old Stopfordians. He had previously been a member of the School 1st XII. Like Sir Geoffry Christie-Miller before him, he joined the Board of Governors as the nominee of Stockport Borough Council and later became a co-opted Governor. Councillor Knight's intimate knowledge of local govern- ment affairs, coupled with that of Councillor Leonard Smith, whose recent death we also lament, has been of inestimable value to the governing body particularly in the difficult transitional period through which the School is now passing. A man of complete integrity, honesty, sincerity and unswerving loyalty, proud of being an Old Stopfordian who with his singlemindedness of purpose would fight to the bitter end for what he believed to be right, Walter Knight was above all a family man and there must be comfort in that he died at the home of one of his daughters. No one in this life is irreplaceable but Walter Knight must surely have been very close to being just that. J. C. Moult

The Chairman of the Governors has kindly allowed me to add a few words to those he has written about Walter Knight. I wanted to do so, because I suppose not many people could speak of the aspect of his life which he has shared with me as his friend and Vicar. Not many people have crammed so inuch into their lives nor kept their integrity in the rough and tumble of politics and business life as he did, and the reason is that he based his life on the Christian Faith and the practice of his religion. He often said "I need my faith every day, and I need my Church". I feel this is worth saying to the many young men who will read this magazine, and who may perhaps wonder how they can find the power base of their own lives. W. Garlick Page Five COUNCILLOR LEONARD SMITH We were very grieved to learn of the sudden death in hospital of Councillor Leonard Smith on Monday, 27th September. He was first appointed Governor as a representative of Stockport Borough Council, in 1962, and since then gave the School much skilled and loyal service. We knew him in the first place as a parent. His son, Roger, was at the School from 1957 to 1964. As a Councillor and particularly as Chairman of the Education Committee at the time of reorganisation, Councillor Smith gave to the Governing Body the benefit ofhis wide experience in educational matters. He also gave us much help through his professional knowledge of buildings. St. George's Church too and the Cripples' Help Society can tell of his valued and unassuming support and leadership. Such was the life of service of a man who brought up his three children single- handed after his wife's early death and not so long ago gained a B.Sc. degree in Economics in his spare time. We are grateful for all he has done and offer our sympathy to his family in their loss. D.J.R. J. H. AVERY In 1956, Harry and Betty Avery, with their children John and Christine, left their cottage in Llandovery for a mansion in Davenport Crescent and Harry took over the Physics Department of Stockpprt Grammar School in a room somewhere on the top corridor. Mr. Philpot girt up his loins and ran to the presence of financiers and industrialists. "We must build our new Physicist a worthy home," he cried. Almost before we had realised it there was the new Science Block and there Harry ruled unobtrusively until last July. Consider him there, a physicist, a scientist of the best type, who knows what he knows and what he does not know, who knows enough to be humble in his knowledge, whose scientific training has given him over the years a coherent philosophy of life. But the scientist is also the teacher, who understands his pupil and has the gift of lucidity before the class. As a Physics teacher Harry is nationally known. Reflect on the good fortune of the boy who has sat at his feet: he is learning from a first-class physicist who is also a first-class teacher, in the Physics Department which Harry planned, using books that Harry wrote and equipment on which he gave technical advice. It is not surprising that this man, who is now consultant to Heinemann Educational Books and has been prominent in the Physics examining of the Joint Matriculation Board, has turned out some good Physicists. And what shall I say more ? For time will fail me if I tell of St. George's Church. Harry is a most valued Lay Reader of the Church of England and boys who have heard him speak often at the Sixth Form Assembly know the quality of his thought and the integrity of his faith. Time will fail me if I tell of tennis, which he ran for many years, being a powerful exponent of the game, particularly, it is customary to say, a consummate master of the controlled lob. Time will fail me if I tell of chess. It is generally overlooked, because so many masters playing in the staff v. boys annual chess match allow the boys to set out the pieces to find out whether the little ones go in front of the big ones, it is generally overlooked that in the general rout certain units have scored notable victories, regularly units commanded by Harry, though his real game is Bridge. Time will fail me if I tell of the timetable, which Harry carefully constructed summer after summer in the cool peace of the Physics Department while the rest of the School was agitated and sticky. He was often given an impossible task but he always performed it without taking or causing offence, a very considerable achievement. Harry retired last summer with the charm and dignity one would expect, looking forward to a well planned retirement. For he has never allowed the world to dictate his behaviour. He does not try to batter the world, like a blacksmith with a hammer, but, more like a skilful doctor, in the best sense of the word he manipulates life and, where it is out of joint, without cursing he puts it right. The boys, the staff and the governors all wished Harry, Betty and their family well in July. We are delighted that since then Harry has been appointed staff representative on the Governing Body and will be regularly among us. D.J.R. Page Six DURHAM- 1976 29 MARCH — 2 APRIL "Once more unto the breach, gentlemen!" Under the orders of the "Colonel" and his noble assistant Lieutenant Johnson, the crack "G" force (VI Lit (II) and VI Lit (I) divisions) moved into action. The major objective, the eager troops were informed, was to be the northern stronghold of Durham, famous for beer, coal, castle and cathedral. A pincer movement was planned, with one force to suppress Teesside (under the Lt.) whilst the other force took control of Upper and Middle Teesdale. A large hill (above Eston, Teesside) and slag-heap (near Liverton Mines) presented few difficulties for the fresh combatants. No opposition was encountered, even on a sortie to the local dockland. The final manoeuvre was an attack on a small cove (down a steep cliff-path) where an apology for a jetty and a bricked-up tunnel suggested previous occupation. Durham was overrun without resistance—the only resistance encountered during the day had come from the gear-box of the coach. Refreshed by a night's rest and entertainment (darts or table-football) the army split to subdue the restless natives of five unfortunate villages, Heighington, Hett, Tudhoe, Middridge, with respective platoon commanders Parker, Hayden, Lee, Hicks and Thomason. Reports were to be made the next evening. On the Wednesday, the respective divisions took Tyneside (VI-II) and Durham City (VI-I). The indigenous population gasped in awe and terror as the well-drilled body marched up to the Geography building of the University. The "water-bridge" was crossed and the cathedral overrun. The afternoon was spent on manoeuvres in Chopwell Forest. The next day, rdles were reversed, VI-I taking Tyneside. The Tyne has a narrow/wide-floored steep/gentle-sided valley. The "bright-lights" of New- castle have led to the development of a shanty town outside (pigeon lofts and whippet huts) whilst the spoil heaps have miraculously become the river flood- plain. Not since the days of the Emperor Hadrian has Newcastle known such terror. The war-weary troops allowed a force of Norwegians to occupy half the barracks in the name of N.A.T.O. solidarity. The glorious return was the reciprocal of the original offensive, Middle and Upper Teesdale were taken despite driving rain, mist and snow. Thanks go to Hatfield College, the monk in Durham Cathedral and the people of North-East England (for their acquiescence); and Messrs. Durnall and Johnson (a grave loss for "Operation Shropshire") for their lively com- mentary and general assistance. M.R.K.

CORSICA - EASTER 1976 It all started one bright, cool Sunday morning, as we all left Stockport station on another journey to Corsica. Remarkably, the journey went exactly according to plan as far as Marseilles, where we spent the day, and a two hour delay did not diminish our astonishment at the breathtaking beauty of the Corsican mountains. A familiar, but ominous sight greeted us on our first morning on the island. The sky was filled with dark cloud, which was rushing overhead as fast as the wind could carry it, but even the most pessimistic of us had stopped predicting that a storm would blow up by lunchtime. At 1 o'clock, the sky had cleared, the wind had dropped and the sun was beginning to shine brightly. We set out from Calvi in one of M. Mariani's coaches to a picturesque little village called Speloneato half-way up the side of a mountain; after demand- ing early opening of the village shop to stock up with cheap wine and chocolate and other essentials forgotten at Calvi, we set off on the first day's walk along a goat track almost completely overgrown with brambles. Scratched and sore, we eventually arrived at our first campsite in a lovely remote grove of chestnut trees. We devoured masses of food to prepare us for the most testing climb the next day: Telegraph Hill. Page Seven Joe arose bright and early the following morning, and by banging on his enamel plate with manic fervour, drew everyone's attention to the fact that it was a lovely morning for walking. It was not long before murmurs of dissension arose; for low cloud was sweeping over the surrounding peaks and down into the valley where we were encamped. We departed with wind blowing, rain falling, and thunder and lightning venting their rage on us. The weather gradually worsened until it was virtually impossible to see more than a few feet ahead. After a short wait on the summit for the party to reunite, we started on the downward trek with even the most jovial spirits dampened. The column of orange and blue cagoules greeted Capello with the same joy as that with which a parched desert traveller greets an oasis. Shelter in a garage and fresh bread from M. Casanova's bakery cheered us up somewhat. Apparently our planned route was blocked with snow and more was on the way. A phone call was made to M. Mariani, our saviour on many past trips, and he arranged transport to Francardo, where there was a village hall which we had used more than once before. However, any delusions of grandeur we may have entertained, were shattered by the gentle "plop" of raindrops as they fell from the roof onto the sleeping area the following morning. After spending three nights in our leaking shelter, we moved on the thirteen and a half miles to Calacuccia. This long walk took us up the Scala de Santa Regina, one of Corsica's most spectacular offerings. This huge gorge is bordered on all sides by sheer rock faces, and is split down the middle by a raging torrent of water. Finding a place to camp here always proved difficult, but, eventually, we spent a cold, but dry night on the local football pitch. In complete contrast to the previous mornings, we were awoken by the resonant clang of the Church bell. Whilst going about our morning's business, we learnt that once again, our route was blocked by snow. Immediate reactions to "Call M. Mariani" were frustrated, it was Sunday and he could not come. Finally a rather avaricious minibus-driver was found to take us from Calacuccia to the Col de Vergio— about 5,000 feet above sea level. From there we walked through the forest to Evisa. After spending a much warmer night at Evisa, we set off for the remote Bois de Lonca, where, in the words of our leader, we might be able to see the wild boars if we did not "twitter" so much. The next day dawned fine, and we started off from the wood heading for Serriera: however, in the afternoon the clouds burst and marble-sized hailstones fell from the heavens. Within minutes, the stream, alongside which we had walked, was a foaming torrent, and the paths and roads gradually submerged as the water ran down from the hillsides. After one of the soggiest nights any of us had ever experienced, this next morning was a pleasant surprise, and bright sunshine speeded the walkers to where Mme. Pieragi greeted us with a pan of steaming hot coffee. As usual, a friendly local gave us a place to camp, but the permanent residents of the field were a little less amiable. Two irate donkeys showed their intense annoyance by eating the bread and scattering the tent pegs. An apparent cessation of hostilities was rudely interrupted on the second night, when a rucksack was emptied, an enamel mug crushed, and one camper forced to spend half the night in a tree, after four great hooves had destroyed his tent. It had already been decided not to go on to Girolata, the scene of last year's flood, and so it was back to Calvi, where we met up with three of the crazier members of the party who had walked the whole distance along the coast road. It remained only to spend four enjoyable nights in Calvi to round off the holiday. Whether there will be another Corsica trip or not is open to question, but our thanks must, as always, go to Mr. Stanley for his dedicated organisation and encouragement, and to his trusty henchmen Dr. Martin and Mr. Mathieson. M.R.U. Page Eight TRAVELS WITHOUT A DONKEY About twelve years ago two third form friends of mine, Phil Turner and Peter Boardman, took pity on me and came back from the top of "Telegraph Hill" to take my rucksack while I struggled breathless up that notorious track. I was slightly ashamed of it then but in more recent years I have learned to accept, and even to encourage it. It is a sad moment when one realises that without such help one could not scale the hills at all. That is the moment when a man must stop pretending to be a mountain goat and accept with a good grace that he is not as energetic as he used to be. My first journey with a group of S.G.S. boys was in 1952 to the Pyrenees. There were half-a-dozen of us. We took £10 each with us and came home when it was finished a fortnight later. During the 1950's we went variously to the Pyrenees and the Dolomites, to Venice and the Dalmation coast, to Granada and to Benidorm—before the package tour operators had heard of it. Then in the early sixties we settled down to the pattern of Corsica at Easter and Greece in the summer every two or three years. Together we have been to many famous places and discovered for ourselves many beautiful un- known places. For myself, often travelling over the same routes, it has always had the quality of new discovery as each generation of boys has donned boots and rucksacks and set out for the wild. The beauty of places is not dependent only on the physical quality of places, but also on the humanity of the people who live in them and who welcome us to join them or rescue us from the consequences of storm or sickness. We have found many friends. Perhaps the most memorable was Jean Teillet— "Jean de Girolat". A man of charm and wit, a cook of lavish traditional Corsican meals, when he died half the delight of Girolata died with him. It never seemed to have the old warmth again. Year after year, M. et Mme. Dubris gave us a camp site to start and finish pur journeys at Calvi. I do not know how many times I wrote to them, translated into immaculate French by Mr. A. P. Smith, asking them to buy eighty bagettes from the boulangerie against our coming. And on our way through the hills there is the family Casanova at Olmi-Capella, who not only supplied us with bread and all the other necessities of life, but dried our clothes on the ovens when we were wet and plied us with bowls of coffee when we were cold. They were the people who organised the evacuation to Bastia of our only bad casualty in Corsica when Tony Fell broke his leg. On our usual route through the White Mountains of Crete and along that fabulous south coast we have made many friends. There was the old man at Lakkoi who, disgusted at our clumsy effort at cutting a melon, pulled put a dirty old knife, wiped it on the seat of his trousers, and insisted on cutting it for us. Then he fished put a crumpled bit of paper from his wallet and showed it to us. It was the certificate from General Alexander thanking him for helping escaped British prisoners during the war. There was Andreas Daskalogianos at Lontro, descendant of a hero of the resistance against the Turks a hundred-and- fifty years ago. Further along the coast, there is the inn at Rodakinon where they had a picture of Bobby Charlton in the window and took two hours to produce a plate of chips. There is Zacharias the guide in the ruins of Phestos who beguiled several parties with his tales of the Minoans in his rather broken English. Earlier travellers will remember that most famous and entertaining of guides, Domenicos Venetikos. A thousand memories crowd in, but there is no room for them here. Nothing I have done has given me more pleasure and satisfaction than these journeys. Among boys who have travelled with me and those who later came to help, among the masters who have helped, and among the people we have met in faraway places, I have a great company of friends and I am grateful for them. John Stanley Page Nine LUDWIGSBURG - 1976 This year witnessed the revival of the German Exchange, when Mr. and Mrs. Herman organised a group of S.G.S. boys and Priestnall girls plus two additions from the Convent. After many months of hard work and preparation, we set off for Ludwigs- burg, near Stuttgart in South Germany. When we left Manchester, it was cold and wet, but after a moderately riotous journey, we arrived in Stuttgart in blazing sunshine, which stayed with us for the whole fortnight. We were greeted by the Otto-Hahn-Gymnasium contingent and one very distraught Fraulein Munch. As happens on these occasions, our German proved inadequate but most of us managed some form of conversation in a mixture of English, French and German. On the last day, we lost the traditional football match 5—0. In the middle of the excellent summer, they chose the day the weather broke to arrive in Manchester, but we did manage a few days of fine weather and it was really very enjoyable. On reflection, I think that we all appreciate what a daunting task it is to supply two weeks of entertainment, but with the help of Mr. and Mrs. Herman, we managed very well. So when our visitors had to return to Ludwigsburg, we were sorry to see them go. A number are returning next summer. We enjoyed it and trust our partners did. We would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Herman for being such good hosts and everyone who helped make the Exchange such a great success. I hope Ludwigsburg '76 will be the first of many fruitful and enjoyable exchanges. N.J.B.

SALCOMBE 1976 The usual Whitsuntide sailing week at Salcombe was once again under- taken by a party of 30 boys accompanied by Mr. Dalton and Mr. Shufflebottom. On this occasion transport was by rail instead of the usual "Selnec" coach. It proved to be both swifter and more relaxing for all concerned. The weather was unusually kind to us this time and proved ideal for sailing, sunbathing and numerous other activities associated with a holiday by the sea. One particularly pleasant distraction for our second formers was the presence of one young lady who must have thought she had arrived in paradise with 30 young men at her beck and call. During the course of the week more R.Y.A. seamanship certificates were gained, some in fine style and others the hard way, numerous boys fell into or out of boats and one or two almost drove their patient instructors to distraction. We must thank our hosts, the I.C.C. for once again providing us with such splendid hospitality and wish them luck in their venture with "Egremont" the new floating headquarters. Finally, I would like to thank Mr. Shufnebottom for his quiet, good humoured assistance during the week. In particular I would like to pay tribute to his organisational ability in holding a game of football, in a field full of thistles, situated on a one-in-five slope, without losing the ball! C.R.D. THE EASTER CRUISE 1976 On a murky day before Easter we set off for Salcombe and, having picked up Ian Rigg en route our party was complete: Mr. Dalton, Robert Hardy, John Pickles, Ian Barnes, Richard Dayies and Ian Rigg. We reached Salcombe in very good time and were soon ferried aboard ship. Besides the crew of four and us there were two Americans on board. Our boat was a fifty ton Gaff Schooner, 72 feet in length, called Hoshi and when all her sails were up she really sped through the water. Once being settled we spent the night on board and early the next day we set off under very noisy engine power, aligning the compass and being put Page Ten through the sail drill and sail handling. In a fickle wind, the afternoon was spent sailing to Plymouth where we stayed the night. The wind forced us to go to the Scillies not to the Channel Islands. The next day was spent sailing to Newlyn and here we only just managed to get into the harbour before the lock gates shut. With a reasonable wind and amid a lot of boat movement we set sail and dropped anchor in St. Mary's harbour in the Scillies where we spent the night and morning during which we had a good look round the Island. That afternoon when we went to Tresco Island, the wind was increasing gradually. On Tresco certain of our party met Sir Harold Wilson and a few hours were spent looking round the small island. It was decided to make our way home to Salcombe; the wind was strong enough and we were to sail over- night. So off we went and the weather grew worse with the wind gusting to gale force seven at times. During the night sails were ripped and the cabin at the front of Hoshi was awash and sea-sickness took its toll. By sunrise the wind abated and the engine was switched on, to improve our slowing headway, throughout the day. At about 8.00 p.m. we dropped anchor in Falmouth and a good meal and sleep were had by all. In the morning the sails had to be repaired and we wandered round the port visiting the R.Y.A. institute among other things. Rested, we left the following evening with the wind dropping and by morning the engine had to be started yet again in order to reach Salcombe in time. We arrived at about midday just in time to collect the car, say our good-byes, and be whisked off towards Stockport; a good time being had by all. The food on board had been excellent and credit is due to the "trainee" cook on board. All the crew had been split into watches of three hours duration and in this cruise each watch had two to three people who spent four hours on watch and eight hours off. There were duties of cleaning up, polishing and scrubbing to be handed round. The whole cruise was an experience never to be forgotten and everybody had a marvellous time on this "Onedin line" type cruise. W.R.H.

THE END OF AN ERA - GREECE '76 One hot sunny day last June, 25 boys, one old boy and someone to whom the whole idea seemed to be second nature left drought-ridden Britain to seek the sun. This was to be the last chapter of a story reaching back well over a decade since John Stanley began his expeditions to Greece, in 1963. Every two or three years, boys of the school have had the marvellous opportunity of a visit to Greece and its islands rich in history. This year's expedition began very smoothly, all connections "spot-on", down to Euston, on to Dover and across the Channel (with everyone spending to excess, leading to later pains of regret as I'm sure our banker, Robin, will bear out). The couchette journey to Milan, provided a first taste of Euro-cooking which proved to be exceptionally good considering the chefs were being rocked along at 70 m.p.h. Impatience to move on combined with a grey, sticky day to make our stay in Milan one to forget. Spirits soon picked up again, however, with the raU journey to Brindisi and thence to Partas via M.V. Georgios. Two days thirst having been thoroughly quenched, we settled down to the comforts of the deck while two people, mentioning no names, pulled over the blankets of rather desirable first class cabins. An evening arrival in Patras and we were on our way to Olympia, the site of the first ever Olympic games. Greek driving having just been sampled, the trip to Athens (via the motor- way rather than over the Arcadian Mountains) proved to be no great disappoint- ment. Off to Crete at last and we felt as though the holiday had really begun. Now, however, things began to go wrong, and with a vengeance. The disasters included one missing hire-car, a parking ticket, and paying the bus company twice. The afternoon was taken up with our first walk down the spectacular gorge of Samaria, ending with one huge simultaneous splash at Ag Roumeli at the bottom. Page Eleven Overall, our stay in Crete was composed of a long east-bound trek along the south coast, starting at Lutro with its wonderful swimming off the rocks and small islands. After two days slow-frying, we moved on to Plakeas via Khpra, Sfakia and the ancient Venetian castle of Frango-Castello. Here our highly-respected leader had chosen a somewhat suspect camp-site amongst the thistles. The hot, dusty trail continued to Phaestos, via the rising jet-set resort of Ag Galini. Phaestos, the site of the once-great palace of the Minoan civilisation, saw our first rain. John Stanley said it had never rained on him in Crete, and was so proud of this excellent record that he refused to take a step outside until the rain ceased. Our last stop on the island was at Knossos, a partly reconstructed site where a modern interpretation of the ancient city provided something more substantial to pore over. The next island of the tour, Mykonos, was notable in that it was there that for the first time in Greek history an S.G.S. party camped in a nudist colony. The shame of it—what would the governors have thought ? Raised eyebrows apart, the brilliant white stones of Delos and the famous Avenue of Lions provided the attraction. The Peloponese marked the last walking part of the holiday, starting at Mycenae with the Lion Gate and the treasury of Atreus. Walking through the hills via the Arguire Heraian, Ligourian and Ag Trias we came to what must surely be the most spectacular of the ancient sites, the almost undamaged amphitheatre of Epidauros. Our final week and it was time to play the tourist in Athens with visits to the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, the temple of Athene Nike and the Erechtheum. Finally, our last fling, Delphi, then it was time to come home. Over a month had passed, but Edgeley station was still there to welcome back home the last 25 unshaven, sunburnt, bankrupt boys of S.G.S. to sample the many delights of John Stanley's Greek expedition. Many thanks are due to John for this, as for every other expedition. J.E.F.B.

SUMMER EXCHANGE TO BEZIERS 1976

Last summer I went on the French exchange to Beziers, and lived with a French family for nearly three weeks. It was a very enjoyable holiday spent in blazing sunshine and excellent weather. I spent much of the time swimming and sun-bathing at Valras Plage, a very pleasant seaside resort, where there is plenty to entertain the visitor both in the daytime and in the evening. As a very cool and welcome contrast, I spent a^week in the mountains near to Beziers, where the scenery is breathtaking. Beziers itself, is quite a large town in the south of France, in the wine producing area of Languedoc. The town is domi- nated by a magnificent cathedral, built on the highest point of the city. The "Feria" of Beziers is a famous festival in the first two weeks of August, and although I was only able to see the opening event it was very entertaining. A highlight of my visit was a trip to the medieval fortified town of Carcassonne, a true monument to the Middle Ages. The food was, to say the least, excellent, although very different from that to which I am accustomed. The people were very helpful and patient during my lengthy struggles with the language. After my return to England with my penfriend we spent a very enjoyable three weeks touring the local places of interest. It was a most enjoyable and highly interesting holiday that I would recommend to anyone, however good or bad his French. A.G.D. Page Twelve WASDALE '76 For the fifth time the lakeland village of Strands was invaded by the Wasdale Camp. The hot dry summer had even reached this notoriously wet area of the British Isles and for most of the three weeks we had excellent walking conditions. This year, due to the extremely high cost of nationalised transport, two minibuses were hired for ferrying supplies and boys up to camp. The first of the vans, leaving early on Speech Day, deprived the occupants, including Mr. Johnson, of witnessing the celebrated occasion. The second arrived safely later in the day. The first week passed without much incident; however, the near perfect weather was spoilt on the last day by a torrential downpour. Intrepid as ever, Mr. Henshall and several others ventured on, after the rest of the party had returned disconsolately to base. The van, not the most popular form of transport at any time, did nothing to enhance its reputation, as it delayed the arrival of the second week party by three hours. Fortunately, food supplies were on hand and, with a little help from the A.A., it crept into camp at dusk to be greeted by Mr. and Mrs. Scott who had arrived for the weekend. The Scafells were chosen for the first walk and the parties led by Jim Swallow and Vaughan Wilcox and accompanied by Peter Holmes and Mr. Scott, had a very successful walking day. Many similar days followed—it was from these hikes that several people returned damper than might have been expected in the fine Wasdale weather. These mysterious events abruptly ceased when one member of the party, returning after a walk over Gable, turned his ankle. After a gallant rescue and several days convalescing, he was out walking again. Arriving for the third week were Mr. Dalton and Mr. Kynaston, whose wives, together with Mr. Leary, continued the same high standards of cooking set by Mr. Whalley and Phill Eddy. On this change-over day, the drains became blocked, but, after some dirty work on the part of several volunteers, Mr. Swallow, the churchwarden, and some local farmers, the problem was soon resolved. The week saw two memorable walks. The first—a camp-badge-qualifying walk—ventured far beyond the valley, with three new leaders, Roger Hopley, Tony Stubbs, David Johnstone, returning in triumph. The second—in aid of the St. George's bells' fund—covered afi peaks visible from the camp, and several others; the party comprising the three walkers already mentioned plus Mr. Swallow, walked twenty-eight miles and climbed ten thousand feet. Thanks are due to Mr. Swallow, the leaders, and all those old hands who returned to help. We all hope "77 will be just as successful a year. J.M.N.

Page Thirteen THE SOCIAL SIDE

S.G.S. - A.T.C. 550 SQUADRON

1976 was a rather mixed year for the squadron. At the end of the first term, we went on camp to R.A.F. Lossiemouth with fourteen of our cadets and the remainder of the places being filled by members of 550 Squadron. It was a well organised camp up in the then colder dry north of Scotland, the programme was very interesting, including flights in Chipmunk trainers and shooting on the range, plus for the very lucky few, eight hour flights in Shackleton airborne early warning planes. (One such person was Sgt. Dentith). In the summer term, the squadron took part in the wing athletics competition, but only Fit. Sgt. Batham and Cadet Sinclair won and went on to represent the wing at R.A.F. Gosforth. During the summer holidays, Sgt. Chandley took a flying scholarship and continued with his flying to get his private pilot's licence. Sgt. Downes went on an annual camp to Malta and Fit. Sgt. Batham won a free four week trip to America under the International Air Cadet Exchange Scheme. In the winter term, the Squadron won two of the three E.C.S.M. wing swimming trophies, and Fit. Sgt. Batham and Cadet Smith represented the wing and Cadet Smith, the region as well. The wing rugby team included Sinclair, Cpls. Wood, Brookes, with Fit. Sgt. Batham also representing the north west region. The squadron is, as usual, looking for new members and anybody who is interested would be most welcome to join. Fit. Sgt. Batham Page Fourteen THE CHESS CLUB

President: Mr. W. Herman Vice-President: Mr. A. C. Heath Secretary: I. M. Radford Captain: C. P. Cherrett The Chess Club, like the proverbial old (soldier, never dies, and, as the school's most travelled society battles into its 489th year, the onerous task of recording its recent history falls once more on the reluctant secretary. Last year was unremarkable in the results the teams produced: Seniors—Played 8 Won 4 Drawn 0 Position 5th/10 Under 14s—Played 7 Won 6 Drawn 1 Position 2nd/10 Under 13s—Played 9 Won 4 Drawn 1 Position 6th/ll However, these statistics do not tell the whole story. While the Senior team once again established themselves as Utterly average, the Under 14s— ably led by Mellor—may justly feel robbed of the League Championship, which they failed to retain simply because they were unable to play all their matches. The Under 13s made a promising start in the Cheshire League, but lack of sufficient coaching to reinforce the obvious enthusiasm precipitated their downfall on several occasions. This year the prospects for the 3 teams, led by Messrs. Cherrett, Mellor and Smith seem bright: once again the Under 14s seem poised to flatten any teams with pretensions to the Stockport League Championship; the Senior squad has been helped by the arrival of our latest secret weapon, the un- assuming maestro Hughes, while the hordes who throng the Monday meetings ensure a strong team for the Under 13s. Once again our thanks must go to Mrs. O'Donnell and Mr. Gosling for the teas and the transport respectively and to the redoubtable Mr. Herman without whose encouragement this latest chapter in the illustrious annals of the Chess Club could not have been written. I.M.R.

BRIDGE CLUB President: Mr. D. Heffer Secretary: J. C. Wright Captain: M. George This year has been one of moderate success. Once again we were able to enter two teams in the Manchester Schools' Bridge League. Assembling an "A" and "B" team proved less difficult than finding opponents; although, I am pleased to say, the difficulties we encountered in arranging fixtures were due rather to apathy on our competitors' parts than to lack of interest on our own. The "A" team lost 5—1 to Manchester Grammar School, drew 3—3 against King's Macclesfield, and vanquished Cheadle Hulme School 6—0. The "B" team swept to an unexpected 6—0 victory over Manchester Grammar School "B" team (they failed to turn up!), and a "scratch" team conquered King's Macclesfield "B" team 4—2. During the early part of the season, we enjoyed many lively club meetings, although recently we have been forced to abandon these Tuesday sessions in order to play League games. After Christmas we plan to enter teams for two major events: the Oxford and the Daily Mail Schools' competitions. The eagerly-awaited staff versus school match will also take place. Special thanks are due to Mr. Heffer and Mrs. Davis for all the work they have put in on behalf of the Bridge Club. J.C.W. Page Fifteen DEBATING AND LITERARY SOCIETY President: Mr. A. P. Smith Chairman: C. P. A. Bennett Secretary: P. G. Burrows Assistant Secretary: J. C. Wright Treasurer: D. Turner Usher: J. E. F. Barrow 1st Year Sixth Representative: Connor 5th Year Representative: Burgess Last year, due to a surfeit of meetings, audiences dwindled, accordingly. This year, the committee has chosen to place emphasis on the quality rather than the quantity of the debates. This policy has enjoyed considerable success. Despite a start very late in the term, and some electioneering difficulties, our first audience numbered an encouraging seventy-five. This figure rose quickly to ninety, for a debate on the motion "This house believes in euthanasia", during the course of which the audience were privileged to hear a brilliant maiden speech by Stephen Truett in which he succeeded in demolishing the arguments of Mark Knowles who was speaking in favour of the motion. Our last meeting was attended by a capacity audience of one hundred and thirty, all of whom were enthralled by the valiant attempts of staff and school to speak for only one minute on the most obscure subjects imaginable. This meeting proved to be an education for many who learnt much from Rupert Battersby's eloquent and erudite dissertation on "Red and green hydraulic brake fluid". The "Man of the Debate", however, proved to be Mr. Taylor, who contrived to speak for a record two and a half minutes on "Dobbin the mule's hair style". This year the Society entered two teams in the English Speaking Competition. Unfortunately despite a very compelling speech by Ian Radford, chaired by Mannion, and thanked by Croall, they narrowly failed to qualify. Congratulations, however, are due to John Evans (chairman), Phillip Burrows (vote-of-thanks) and speaker Chris Bennett who came first in their heat and qualified for the Manchester finals. Finally, we would like to thank Mr. Scott, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Smith and Mr. Taylor for their support and assistance; also the speakers at our meetings; our supporters at the speaking competitions; and our usher for effectively keeping order. This year the Society has had a happy atmosphere; humour, as well as wisdom, has arisen from almost all the debates, and we hope this will continue in the future. C.P.A.B.

THE VENTURERS SOCIETY Hon. Secretary: D. H. Watt Hon. Treasurer: N. Ferguson-Lee This years Venturers Society visits have mainly been confined to the Stockport and Manchester area, visits further afield being made almost prohibitive by the cost of hiring a coach. However, arranging trips this year has been made easier by the smaller number of the members of the Venturer's Society; twenty as opposed to last year's forty. Visits have been made to Stockport Town Hall, John Needham's Iron Foundry, Stockport, Stockport Museum, the Crown Courts, Manchester and the Central Reference Library Manchester, amongst others. Thanks must go to those who have so readily given of their time in allowing the Society to visit their establishments. Our thanks must also go to Mr. Durnall for his advice and assistance. D.H.W. Page Sixteen DRAMATIC SOCIETY When Mr. and Mrs. Johnson left the school many people wondered if we would be able to maintain the same high standards in our school plays after their departure as during their presence. Fortunately, the dynamic Mr. Mathieson stepped forward to breathe new life into the society, and, during the six years for which he was with us, we were able to move away from the more traditional type of school play and towards more ambitious productions like "The Fire Raisers" and "Romulus the Great". Mr. Mathieson also organised the masters' plays, setting a fine example of a true actor whose only limita- tions were those provided by the stage itself, and the facilities available in a school hall. His own performances were powerful and impressive, for he always succeeded in grasping and retaining the audience's attention by the force of his stage-presence and polished technique. To be directed by Mr. Mathieson was a great experience, and, on behalf of all those who enjoyed the privilege, I should like to thank him for the bound- less determination and energy he put in on our behalf. Now the English department has been taken over by Mr. Robin Taylor, an old boy who served his acting apprenticeship under Mr. and Mrs. Johnson. Mr. Taylor will be directing a play in the summer term to coincide with the Grand Reunion of the School, in this its 490th year. In this difficult task, we old seasoned thespians would like to wish him the best of luck. C.P.A.B. LIBRARY REPORT . . __ Librarian: Miss S. K. Hollis Senior Librarian: D. R. Batham Assistant Librarians: H. Ramsbottom, M. Newton, C. Holliday, J. Wright, I. Radford, R. Battersby. Junior Librarians: S. Ramsey, I. Dootson, G. Sidlow, G. Batham. The library has enjoyed one of its most successful campaigns for many a year, with approximately 4,500 books being borrowed per term. At the beginning of the Whitsun term we welcomed seven new librarians who have settled down well and are now working with a will. The library has made a special effort to appeal to the younger members of the school by enlarging the Fiction section and especially that devoted to Science Fiction which we have found to be particularly popular with the first and second forms. To conclude, I would like to thank the team who, together with Miss Hollis and Mr. Henshall, have made this year the success it was. D.B. S.G.S. MATHEMATICAL SOCIETY Last year's appeal for new members (5th and 6th formers only, please) failed to produce any genuinely-interested recruits. This is a sad state of affairs! Not many schools have the opportunity of unhindered first-hand computing experience, and we trust that the lack of volunteers stems from ignorance of the society's activities rather than from apathy. If no-one comes forward during the next few months, this will be the first year with no junior members to carry on after the "old-timers" depart for university, and could quite possibly mean the end of the society—a great tragedy for all concerned.

Page Seventeen Unless something dramatic happens very soon, Agatha's days are numbered. Although a few integrators still work occasionally, she is in a bad state of repair. Renovation seems out of the question, as this would take weeks of full-time effort, replacement of obsolete components, and demands unavailable informa- tion about her innards. We are awaiting suggestions as to her future. On a brighter note, we now have access (at U.M.I.S.T.) to a larger digital computer (a PDP-11), magnetic tapes, and a video display unit, and at last we are using the highly sophisticated Fortran programming language. Visits to U.M.I.S.T. usually take place every Wednesday after school, and we are completely unhindered in our work there. There must be someone with an interest in computing—will they please contact one of us as soon as possible! I.M. PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY President: Mr. Short Secretaries: P. C. Dickie, T. Dunham Treasurer: B. Bartindale Committee: C. John, P. Keeley, G. Beaumont After a reasonably successful exhibition of prints and transparencies last term the society was rejuvenated by the introduction of new committee members. Due to the poor state of the darkroom and its equipment, it has been decided to replace several items, particularly the dryer and enlarger. With this in mind, our meetings for this term have been concerned with the establish- ment and progress of the "Darkroom Fund". This is coming from two sources— subscription from members and the sale of obsolete chemistry equipment. We must thank Mrs. Shilton and Mr. Short for their efforts in this direction. We are hoping to organise a competition before Easter (open to all the school) and we trust that those members who joined in September, along with older members, and any other enthusiastic amateur will help to support us in this venture. Lack of knowledge need not deter anyone from joining. We will be only too pleased to welcome and help any newcomers. P.C.D, RAILWAY SOCIETY This year has been one of the most depressing years ever recorded in the annals of this infamous society. Trips have been well organised and most trains have been going where we thought they were. Some have even come within half an hour of their appointed times. Even meetings have failed to turn into riots. Sadly the old breed of railway society member (i.e. potential anarchist) is on the way out. There is but a flicker of hope; the two masters who were responsible for the success of the end of term exhibition have both left—presumably in disgrace. We also have memories of leaving a train late at night some- where in the wilds of rural Cheshire, due to someone's misreading of the timetable. Our criminal record this year consists of trips to: Brighton, Didcot, Manchester Signalling School and Torbay, coercing gullible first formers to patronise the same. We have also perpetrated the criminal folly of having 2 quizzes and caused the return of our most famous member, Ben Armishaw, for a talk on the Isle of Man Railway. All in all a very worrying year. G.R.S. I.M.R. Page Eighteen SCHOOL BUSINESS GAME The new board met in September 1976. As usual it consisted of a large proportion of new first year sixth formers, guided by supposedly seasoned second year sixth formers who really knew little more about the game. The first heat consists of four schools competing as companies over seven periods. The "company" with the most profit at the end of the period wins the game. Stockport Grammar School, Limited Company, launched straight into the spirit of the thing with a loss of 65,000 pounds, but with reassuring words from financial advisors Mr. Swallow and Mr. Heath, the company was soon making a healthy profit. Suggested policies came thick and fast and apart from one or two minor points the discussion was constructive. Unfortunately, the large profit made was only enough to secure third place. Our thanks go to the I.M.F. who organised the game and to Mr. Swallow and Mr. Heath for the many helpful suggestions offered. A thoroughly stimu- lating tune was had by all. P.G.B.

MUSIC This year we welcome a new music master, Mr. Jackson Towers, who joins us from Bishop Wordsworth's School. He replaces Mr. James Dickenson, who now teaches at Sale Grammar School and plays the harpsichord for the Manchester Camerata Orchestra. At last year's Founder's Day service, the choir rose to an exciting perform- ance of Stamford's rousing "Te Deum". A different sort of choral concert was given by a mixed choir of 6th formers from Stockport Grammar School and Stockport Convent who performed two rock-musicals, "Jesus Christ, Superstar" and "Godspell". The choir was accompanied by a group consisting of Jim Ensor (guitar), Neil Burgess (bass), Mike Stephens (drums), whilst David Benger, who trained the choir and organised the concert, played piano. The concert was a great success and thanks are due to Sister Elizabeth, for the loan of her 6th formers, and to Andrew Tomms, who organised the amplifying system. The last concert of the year was given by the school orchestra. Again there was a large number of individual performances; among which Peter Longshaw's recorder-, Robert Hoogi's violin- and David Benger's piano-solos were out- standing, whilst Simon Lambourne and Timothy Kendal provided one of those highly enjoyable piano-duets, which have become a regular feature of school concerts. Mr. Robinson resumed his r61e as resident conductor to lead the orchestra through one of their most memorable concerts of recent years. This year's Carol Service was a memorable one. Mr. Towers' organisation and presentation were outstanding, especially in view of the short space of time he has had to get to know his choir. We also extend our thanks to Mr. English, St. George's organist, who accompanied the choir during the service. Mr Towers has also injected vitality into the School's instrumental music, by encouraging all boys (including those of the Junior School) to learn an in- strument. Besides adding to the numbers of people teaching violin and piano, he has also found excellent musicians to teach flute, clarinet, brass and guitar, whilst he himself teaches organ. D.B. Page Nineteen WARGAMES SOCIETY President: Mr. Henshall Chairman: C. Scott Secretary: A. Nicholson Treasurer: M. Gilbertson Lower School Rep.: B. Bolton World War II Rep.:T. Swinscoe Napoleonic Rep.: N. Rains The Society's activities last year reached a climax with the exhibition on Speech Day, which achieved the distinction of a mention by Mr. Winston Churchill M.P. This year began with a well-attended A.G.M. and the announcement by the new committee of imminent reforms. Two new sets of standardised rules subsequently flowed from the presses and the members seem to be actually using them. A new league system has also been introduced, to eliminate the vagueness of our previous competition, and is going very well. Attendances have been constantly high at around fifty. So we look forward to what promises to be one of our best years so far. A.J.N.

SIXTH FORM COMMON ROOM Chairman: J. Barrow Treasurer: S. Roberts A. Hearle A. Stubbs R. Hooley M. Morris "list year reps. R. Dentith M. Copp / D. Turner We started the year with no financial problems, having plenty of money in the bank from last year. The football table has been used sensibly by most people, though one or two insist on playing during lessons. The dart board has been out of use for a few weeks but has now been replaced. Dr. Martin has given us a lot of help in the running of the common room and in organising the Xmas dance (Dec. 19th); our thanks go to him. The record player has been giving us some mechanical trouble, but should be fixed soon and is being used sensibly by everyone. Otherwise the term has gone quietly j I hope the rest of the year will be equally peaceful. S.J.R.

Page Twenty uvwts

RUGBY FIRST XV

The 1st XV's playing record can be divided exactly into halves. Played 22; won 11, lost 11. This total number of fixtures includes all matches played in the Manchester Schools Cup and on the short tour of Oxford and Cambridge. The team was strengthened by the return of Jackson for a third year in the sixth, and Hicks who came out of "retirement" to play again. This second row combination (which was also the Cheshire Schools' second row and nearly became the N.W. Counties second row), won us much good ball throughput the season .and helped a "good-looking" threequarter line to run in many tries. Perhaps the find of the season, although he didn't add much to the threequarters "good looks", was Battrick, who proved to be a powerful runner, once he had caught the ball. As always Johnstone was solid in defence at full back and caused many problems to the opposition with his "Kamikaze" tackling. Our run in the Manchester Schools Cup took us to the quarter finals where we lost to Cardinal Langley School, the eventual winners, after leading for most of the game. After Christmas the 1st XV went on a short tour to Oxford and Cambridge playing Pembroke College, Oxford, Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, and Hills Road Sixth Form College. The university colleges proved to be too strong for us but in the final game the school managed a victory against more realistic opposition.

Page Twenty-one In both Oxford and Cambridge we were well looked after by old boys Nigel Pullan and Martin Little, and our thanks must go to them for their help with the organisation of fixtures and accommodation. My own thanks go to Alistair Stewart, who captained the 1st XV last season and helped so much with the administration of the team both on and off the field. On the representative side, Paul Jackson and Doug Hicks both played for Cheshire Schools as second row forwards and both were subsequently selected for the N.W. Counties Squad to play the Japanese Schools. Paul was to play and Doug was substitute. Paul Jackson went on to represent England Schools at U.I9 level for the second successive year. The school owes a great debt to such players as these whose unselfish hard work, both on the field and in training, has set such a good example to younger players. We wish them well in the future. C.R.D.

SECOND XV During the 1974-75 season the 2nd XV enjoyed some considerable success, so, in September '75, we went out onto the rugby pitch under the leadership of Mr. Sadler, hoping to equal the previous season's high standards. Unfortunately, the new members from the sixth form did not suitably fill the gap left by the 2nd year sixth. After a few matches we realised that we were not going to have a good season though, if my memory serves me correctly, we did win the odd game. We went to the Isle of Man with the 1st XV and enjoyed ourselves im- mensely, except for the 90 mins. on Sunday morning when once again we were defeated. Now Mr. Mathiespn, our trainer, has left the school; and I hope this season's sport has left him with some enjoyable memories of S.G.S. rugby. Personally, I enjoyed the season and Mr. Sadler's jokes at every scrum and line out, as I hope the rest of the team did. S.J.R.

UNDER 15 XV Played Won Drawn Lost For Against 14 9 0 5 345 158 The colts had a most encouraging season and played some excellent open rugby. After a string of resounding victories they lost narrowly to King's Macclesfield and then went down 6—3 to a very powerful Sale team. This second game was a great credit to the team where they showed both skill and maturity beyond their years. The match had been dubbed "the showdown at O.K. Corral" by the Manchester Pink and both sieds lived up to expectations. After Christmas the team lost a little of its potency and failed badly against indifferent opposition. However, these setbacks were quickly forgotten as the "sevens squad" trained hard in their bid to win the Cheshire Schools seven a side competition at Sale. The team improved immensely as the competition developed. In the early rounds they put the record straight with King's Mace, and also defeated such notables as Wilmslow and Cardinal Langley on their way to the final against Wirral G.S. The team played exceptionally well but eventually went down 14—10. The game unfortunately hinging on a dubious try (the corner flag being broken and the touch judge not up with play). My congratulations to all the boys who represented the U.I5. I have not singled out any individuals for special mention because I felt that this side were in fact a true team in every sense of the word. The following boys represented the school: S. Burgess (Capt.), P. Turner, K. Hodson, S. Truett, D. Morgan, T. Dunham, D. Dargan, C. Buckley, A. Caro, M. Holt, N. Garfitt, A. Peck, R. Davis, M. Burgess, D. Adshead, M. Unwin, G. Wilkins, N. Sinclair. Page Twenty-two UNDER 14 XV Played Won Lost For Against 17 7 10 241 375 The season started very well—of the teams played, ours was the smallest in build—however, things looked promising; losing in a close game against William Hulme and then stringing together six wins. Unfortunately, this was followed by six heavy defeats. Mr. Dalton re-shaped our outlook and we began to recover. The season finished badly, though, so we look to this season, hoping things can only get better. Four players were ever-present in a squad of 24—Buchanan, Burns, Joel and Sinclair. N.S.

UNDER 13 XV Played Won Lost For Against 16 9 7 410 189 The season began badly with defeats in four successive games. A con- vincing victory over M.G.S. marked a turning point in our fortunes. The team began to click and the long cold practices began to take effect. Memorable victories included a hard, frosty game at Sir John Deanes and a close win away to St. Ambrose. The forwards played a hard working, aggressive game, running well with the ball and learning the arts of ruck and maul. Improved handling and penetra- tion by the threes built up a number of big scores. The side as a whole gave of their best throughout the season and maintained enthusiasm and good spirit. The team has promise and depending on application next season should mature to become an effective unit. We were grateful for the support of those parents who followed the team during the season. I.D.J. A.D.T.R.

UNDER 12 XV The under 12's had a successful season. They began with little experience and only one player of above-average size and ability. Nevertheless, they quickly developed into a keen team, learning the basic skills of the game through hard work and practice. By the end of the season they had won a number of notable victories, and in the final tally of scores, they had won one more game than they had lost. PJ.H.

Page Twenty-three LACROSSE FIRST X

Captain: G. Peck

This was probably the most successful lacrosse season in the school's history for the first team. We played more matches than ever before, over thirty , and of these we only lost five—three of these to Manchester Polytechnic, whose team included many Cheshire under-19 players. Our season was highlighted by the winning of the Stockport Cup for only the second time and we beat Mellor "B" 16—8 in the final of this knock-out competition. On the way to this, in the semi-final, we defeated old rivals Cheadle Hulme School in a good game. The last programmed fixture of the season was the Urmston 6-a-side. We qualified for the final and at about 7.30 p.m. beat the other finalists relatively easily. There were twenty-four other teams in this competition and it is the first time that we have won this trophy. Our team was dominated by the scoring ability of H. Radford and G. Peck and brilliant goal-keeping of P. Bennett. It was a fantastic season and all the more credit is due to our team at a time when we did not have a full time lacrosse coach. Our congratulations go to P. Bennett and H. Radford who both played for Cheshire's under-19 team. W.R.H. SECOND X Results: v Old Waconians B Won 12—2 v Cheadle C Won 14—9 v Poynton A Lost 20—1 v Old Hulmeians B (1st round, David Beesley Cup) Won 15—3 v Urmston B Lost 13—4 v Stockport C Lost 12—5 v Poynton A Lost 19—3 v William Hulme's G.S. Won 18—4 This year's 2nd XII is potentially a much stronger team than usual. There are few weaknesses in the team and it is capable of playing lacrosse of a very good standard. It has gained some very convincing victories, but, as is always the case with our second teams, it often has to face club teams of greater skill, weight and experience. Also, for one reason and another, it is not always possible to field a side at full strength. Still, we look forward confidently to more successes in the second half of the season. UNDER 15 XII Captain: J. Beesley The team had a very disappointing season, losing many games which it was quite capable of winning. In the J. A. Barber Cup at the beginning of the season the team was beaten by Stockport Juniors 2—1 in the semi-final. An early exit was made in the Junior and Schools Cup. There seemed to be a lack of team spirit and determination to win. As long as they were in front they could play excellent lacrosse but as soon as the opposition hit back there was little resistance. The lack of success is all the more surprising when one considers the number of players who represented the county at the end of the season; J. Beesley (v-capt.) P. Kydonieus and A. Goodson played for Cheshire against Lancashire, with C. Powell and K. S. Douglas as reserves. A. Goodson went on to play in goal for the North against the South of England. A.C.H. Page Twenty-four UNDER 14 XII Captain: M. L. Mellor The team has tried hard to maintain a good performance this season, but has not found the going as easy as last season, winning barely half of its matches. This is mainly due to the fact that most of our opposition has been under-15 sides. Unfortunately, our lacrosse programme has been marred by a period of bad weather and a few of our fixtures have been cancelled, especially around Christmas. Despite all this, the team's morale is very high and we hope to do much better next season against more suitable opponents. M.L.M.

UNDER 13 XII Captain: M. L. Mellor We had an excellent season last year winning all but four of our fixtures. The highlight of the season was beating our formidable opponents William Hulme's in the semi-final of the Centurion Trophy at home, 9—6; most of our goals were scored by R. Powell. Unfortunately, we were beaten 6—4 in the final by Wilmslow, after being forced to play extra time. We were very lucky last season having to cancel none of our fixtures. The teams main problems seemed to be picking up the ball, and clearing the ball quickly from defence to midfield, but generally we played well through- out the whole of last season having little difficulty in beating most teams. M.L.M.

UNDER 12 XII Some forty boys in the first forms are now committed to lacrosse and amongst them are some very promising players. Two games were played before Christmas, one being against an older team, Norbury Juniors, which we lost 6—4, against Wilmslow Grammar School we won 8—4. The spring term includes five more matches so that by the end it should be possible to know the under-13 team for next year which will have a long hard season ahead of them, including another attempt to win the elusive "Centurion" Trophy. The position in this competition is that we have been in the final four times but failed to win the trophy. The team, well captained by G. R. Phillips (IB), is very keen and shows distinct promise. An enthusiastic group of parents accompanied us, and we thank them both for their support and transport. Played Won Drawn Lost 21 — 1 J.G.G. Page Twenty-five CRICKET

FIRST XI The first XI had a moderately successful season winning five of their ten matches and losing two. The team was a mixture of youth and experience, the major batsmen being the older boys, whilst the main bowlers were the younger members of the side. Nevertheless Gary Cash managed to weld them into a useful team during the course of the year. The long hot summer provided many good batting wickets, and our thanks must go to the groundsmen for their useful preparation. The wickets, on some occasions, were so helpful to batsmen that the school was denied victory, being unable to bowl pur opponents out. As in previous seasons, Cash was the most consistent batsman, scoring a magnificent 123, not out, in the match with Bangor College. He was ably assisted by Torkington, in his first season with the 1st XI; by Thomason, who made his runs in an outstanding and spectacular manner; and finally by Harrison, who scored his first fifty for the school in his last match, against the Old Stopfprdians. Our principal bowler, Holt, after an erratic start began to bowl with pace and accuracy. He was well supported by Hardy, Harrison, R. and N. Kelly and Thomason. Hilditch was the 1st XI's only wicket keeper and kept well to all. Two boys represented Cheshire Schools at under-19 level. Cash for the third successive season, this time as captain and Torkington, who played as an opening batsman. Gary Cash went on after his County games to represent England in matches against Scotland and Wales. At junior level, Caro and Taylor represented Cheshire under-15s and Taylor was selected for the North of England XI, whilst at under-13s Reeman, King and Beesley all played for Cheshire with Reeman as captain. The general situation of cricket within the school is very healthy indeed due partly to excellent playing areas and talented individuals, but mainly to the coaching and interest of a number of masters who give up their time in the evening and on Saturdays for the benefit of the teams. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them all very much. Finally, a very important group of people must be thanked by the whole school. The Ladies Committee have continued to provide our own, and visiting teams, with delicious teas, the quantity and quality of which may well have contributed to some of our more impressive victories. Ladies, thank you very much! C.R.D Page Twenty-six SECOND XI Captain: R. Fidler Vice-Captain: J. E. F. Barrow Played Won Lost Drawn 7232 It is always difficult to pick an unchanged 2nd XI and this means that the team becomes unsettled. However, taking this into consideration, and the fact that the best of the previous season's Colts went to the 1st XI the results and individual performances were quite satisfactory. The highest score with the bat was Fidler's 64 not out against Marple Hall. McLeod bowled well, his best performance being 5 for 13 against King's Macclesfield. T. Taylor from the Colts had 6 for 10 in a dramatic one wicket win against King William's College I.O.M. and Bateson took 5 for 8 against Cheadle Hulme School. In the field H. Radford was outstanding, taking some superb catches. In two seasons with the 2nd XI he has never dropped one. As last year's 1st XI was a young side, the 2nd XI should be able to draw upon the stronger members from the Colts and a good season is in prospect. Many thanks to the captain and vice-captain for all their help and to the players and to Mr. Simpson and the other parents who helped to provide such excellent teas. J.G.G.

UNDER 15 XI Captain: T. Taylor Played Won Drawn Tied Lost 14 10 1 12 After early defeats by William Hulme's and King's Chester and a very forgettable tie against Sir John Deane's, the season appeared to promise little for the under-15s. However, everyone worked hard on the basics of the game and when the wickets got harder (some say when Burgess returned!) the batsmen began to give the bowlers good scores to bowl at. Humphreys started to hit the ball cleanly, Fuller forced his way into the side and batted well, and Marsland answered the critics of his bowling by becoming a batsman! The bowling was done almost exclusively by Caro, Oakes and Taylor who all bowled consistently well (King's Chester excluded!) making it extremely difficult for the opposition to score. This tight bowling proved to be the basis of success in the Dewes Cup. Six wicket victories over both Poynton H.S. and Altrincham G.S. were followed by a 54 run victory over Hyde G.S. in the quarter final. Penketh H.S. looked comfortable finalists having reached 40 for 2 in reply to a disappointing 73 from the school. However, throughout the season there had been a tremendous team spirit, particularly apparent in the very high standard of fielding. First Oakes, diving full length at square leg, and then Fuller, full length at mid-off, took catches which turned the game, although it required a hat-trick of stump- ings by Burgess off Taylor to clinch victory by 21 runs. The final was played against Wirral G.S. on a hot day at Crewe C.C. On a perfect wicket Carroll (40) and Mountain (29) added 46 for the fourth wicket and the whole team batted sensibly without resorting to wild hitting. Typical of the assurance of the batting was the way in which Taylor and Oakes took 15 off the last of the 35 overs including two fours through the covers (almost as memorable as Chapman's straight four against Marple G.S.!). The total of 142 for 8 proved too much for Wirral who could score only 20 off the first 16 overs. Oakes, bowling unchanged (16 overs 1 for 34), and Caro (14 overs 6 for 35) reduced Wirral to 107 all out. Sir Hubert Dewes presented the Cup to the School for the first time. A thoroughly successful and rewarding season was rounded off by the selection of Caro and Taylor to play for Cheshire under-15's. Taylor went on to represent the North of England. A.C.H. Page Twenty-seven UNDER 14 XI A very successful season was helped by the glorious weather and the team's great enthusiasm. We had a very strong squad, which enabled us to put out a good side even when several notables went missing. On the batting side, P. Carroll was the most successful (93 v Kings Macclesfleld) and there were other useful contribu- tions from Sinclair, Burns and Reeman. The bowlers were excellent this year. A. King who has the makings of an excellent left arm over, fast bowler, was amply supported at the other end by Ramsbottom. Reeman and Hutchinson, the spin bowlers, enjoyed some excellent results and there was always a great deal of varied talent pushing for places. As the season progressed, several players emerged as having enough enthusiasm and ability to win the first team places for the rest of the season. Notably, A. Wood and K. Mitton. The overall approach was excellent and the side has the makings of an excellent cricketing squad which should do very well next season in the Dewes Cup. UNDER 13 XI The team had a mixed season but there was no disguising the undoubted talent they possessed. After storming through the early rounds of the Stockport Schools Trophy we found to our consternation that other schools had failed to play their matches and the competition was scrapped. All the boys performed creditably and it became quite a problem nominating players for the Cheshire trials. We must congratulate A. Reeman on captaining the Cheshire under-13 team and also King and Beesley who were also selected. Mention must also be made of Spiller who developed as a sound opening bat; of Woodhead, alively wicketkeeper, and Clarke, a genuine hitter—a rare breed at this age! The team was selected from the following boys. Reeman, Beesley, King, Clarke, Spiller, Birch, Woodhead, Wickremeratne, Crowther, Mellor, Poyser, Davis, Markham, Dunham and Ross.

TENNIS

Results: P W L D 1st VI 10 8 2 0 2nd,, 8 4 3 1 Once again the 1st VI had a very successful season, losing narrowly to Stockport School early in the term, but from then on winning all but one of their matches. The first pair, Pagan and Johnstone, hardly dropped a set all season, and they received able support from Hopkin, Morrell and Flay. The 2nd VI also did well, with some good players coming up to replace those who have left. Colours were awarded to Pagan (Captain), Johnstone, Hopkin and Morrell. D.H. Page Twenty-eight JL+

ARDEN HOUSE

Captain: S. Roberts Vice-Captain; I. Radford Lacrosse Representative: P. Eddy This year we lost the strong second year sixth we had last year and, unfortunately, the senior events this term showed this as we lost all our rugby and lacrosse matches. The inter- mediates however, made up for this with the 3rd and 4th form rugby players winning all their matches and the lacrosse players winning two of theirs. Looking back to last year, we won the tennis again and came second in the swimming. We also won the athletics standards which gave us hopes of winning Sports day for the second year on the run; unfortunately, luck was against us. We came last. On the cricket pitch, we came overall third equal. The intermediates won all their matches, the seniors and juniors came third and fourth respectively. Again the sports staff appeared to forget about the basket-ball trophy until the end of term when it was fitted in one evening; we won one of our matches, coming third overall. With all these results and the results from earlier in the year, we came second to Warren in the Fallows Shield. My thanks go to Paul Jackson for all he did for the house last year when he wasn't playing for England. (Will this be the last time he's mentioned in the Stopfordiarif) Thanks also go to the rest of last year's committee, this year's committee and Messrs. Roberts, Hollows and Heffer for all they have done to keep the house running smoothly. S.R. Page Twenty-nine NICHOLSON HOUSE

House Captain: D. H. W. Turner Vice-Captain: R. Kociuruba Committee: W. R. Hardy, S. Mayall, I. R. Burns The last year has, for Nicholson house, been one of mixed fortunes. By the end of the summer v 1 term we had done particularly well in the cricket \ / at senior and junior levels; in the senior level we X. 'it '4> '4 / won all three matches, despite having only 10 men in one of them. Our intermediate team, however, was not quite as successful in com- petition against some strong teams. We finished the term by winning the Fallows Shield and looked all set to start off in September from where we left off in July. The rugby and lacrosse season began well. On the senior rugby scene, we won our matches against Arden and Warren, but unfortunately lost a very close match against the powerful Vernon team. The intermediates also put on a very impressive display in their matches, winning two and losing one. The effort expended by both teams was highly commendable, and with injuries dogging us I feel the results were highly respectable. Our lacrosse, however, was not so successful. It is difficult to say exactly what went wrong, but the results were generally poor, and we can but hope for a considerable improvement. We finished 1976 on a disastrous note by losing five matches out of five in one week. The academic activities of the house, however, improved our chances of winning the Brown Cup. Sports Day followed the pattern of previous years, and I am hoping for a considerable improvement this year. We finished third, but I can say that this mediocre result was due to no lack of effort, as we were represented by a full team in every event; alas, the same cannot be said for the Standards Cup, where we finished fourth. Notable performances have been given this year on the rugby and lacrosse fields, although some disappointing results have left us depending on the juniors to regain the pride of the best of the four houses, in the matches in the spring term. In conclusion, I would like to thank the committee members for all the work which they have put in to ensure a full team in almost every match—this is a great credit both to them and to the rest of the house. I would also like to express our appreciation of the constant help and support of Messrs. Gosling, Heath and Wright, and our congratulations to the new school captain Julian Barrow, a stalwart of the Nicholson teams. D.H.W.T.

Page Thirty VERNON HOUSE

House Captain: R. S. Hooley Committee: R. J. Haszeledine, A. Holt, R. Stewart, C. White The 1975/76 school year has not been what one could call successful for Vernon House. However, what we lacked in match-winning performances we made up for in effort and enthusiasm. The senior rugby team lost all three of their matches by not-too-slender margins. At lacrosse, the seniors achieved a single victory, against Warren, in a close game. The intermediates at rugby fared a little better than the seniors, winning once, but losing to Arden and to Nicholson. Not surprisingly, the lacrosse team with a rugby-playing majority lost all three games. The junior teams, their bubbling enthusiasm a joy to watch, did little to improve the standard of our result; losing all three matches convincingly at rugby and winning only a single lacrosse match. As the Easter holidays approached so did the swimming gala—not one of our strongest events. Unfortunately we finished in fourth place. We returned for the summer term, feeling that we could only get better and with enthusiasm increasing, we prepared ourselves for the encounters on the cricket square. The juniors were the most successful team, with two victories against Arden and Nicholson both by nine wickets. Good performances came from Cowie, Clark and Wickremeratne. The intermediates reached the final of their knock-out competition but lost narrowly to Warren in a thrilling game. The seniors were again, almost by habit, a very disappointing side, losing both their games. At athletics it looked as though we might achieve our only glory of the season. Unfortunately we could not recapture the Standards Cup, a possession of ours for so many years. However on Sports Day, the tables were turned, it looked for a long time as though we were going to win but finally we finished a gallant second to Warren. Dargan and Garfitt performed well, and shared the intermediate Victor Ludorum. At the end of the term we, at last, gained the victory for which we had been waiting—in the basketball competition. The team gave a superb per- formance on a hot June day and so we looked forward in earnest to September. This year, our hard graft from last year paid off, and the results have improved tremendously, the seniors remaining unbeaten. Who knows, this year we may even win the swimming gala! It only remains for me to wish the best of luck to Messrs. Mathieson and Whalley in their new schools and thank them for their humour, time and effort in Vernon affairs. Thanks go to the committee for their willingness to produce complete teams and to Messrs. Martin, Taylor and Robinson for their tireless support for anything concerned with Vernon House. R.J.H.

Page Thirty-one WARREN HOUSE

House Captain: D. R. Batham Vice-Captain: M. R. Knowles Committee: J. Pickles, C. Peck As usual, this year has been one of mixed fortunes for our glorious house. Last summerj principally through the efforts, of Gary Cash and Tim Harrison, the senior cricket gained two victories (the loss against Nicholson being brought on by Gary's absence through illness). The intermediates had similar fortunes. In the athletics, following tradition, it was success all the way. As the morning of Sport's Day dawned, the Warren Camp was fired with the expectation of glories to come. Sure enough, through the efforts of Geoff Peck in particular, we won or shared in every trophy in- cluding all three "Victor Ludorums" (Geoff Peck, and Andy Peck respectively in senior, intermediate and junior). On a high note, three quarters of a very successful committee departed, (Geoff, Gary and Tim), to be replaced by the present committee and Vice- Captain. Don Batham was duly promoted to the rarified atmosphere of his present post. The rugby season opened more successfully than in previous years. Arden were defeated (by the outstanding efforts of John Pickles), Ross Dentith also closed his "highly successful rugby career" with a "JJ" type burst to score in the corner from John's pass, and both Nicholson and Vernon were pushed very close. The senior lacrosse suffered as players, who shall remain nameless, were conspicuous by their absence. Credit is due to the fifth-formers who replaced them at very short notice. Dubious refereeing led to a mixed bag of results. The intermediate rugby promised much, but achieved little despite the spec- tacular efforts of Marcus Joel. In contrast the lacrosse team defies description. Their skill and speed overwhelmed opponents. Their string of victories led to a house aggregate of six and a hah7 successes from 12 attempts. During half-term, the swimming gala was cancelled. Rumour has it that this was a conspiracy by the house masters in charge of other teams, since Warren's superiority in this event is almost legendary. At this stage, mention must be made of Mr. Johnson, who has left these hallowed cloisters to seek his fortune in pastures new. During his time with the house, he has been very active especially with his unique cries of encourage- ment such as "Oh, my God, tackle him lad!" He follows such notables as Mr. Coulson and Mr. Leary into the annals with equal credit to his name. In conclusion, I would like to refer to the new spirit of optimism that pervades the present house proceedings. Under Don's excellent leadership, we seem to have broken the habit of heavy defeats. 1977 Will, it is to be hoped, see fresh success on the junior front. The future is assured under the leadership of John Pickles and Chris Peck, despite the latter's modesty in the matter of reading the lesson. D.R.B. M.R.K.

Page Thirty-two In the last edition of the magazine we had just opened the new school. Now, we are half-way through our second year in it, and have settled down happily. The library has grown rapidly and attracts an encouraging number of boys. Happily, the teaching staff remains unchanged and we have a welcome addition in Mrs. Cundliffe who has come to take Music. We have seen the benefits of her work both in a concert during the summer and at the Qarol Concert. Last Easter, we visited Paris with a party of twenty-six boys escorted by Mrs. Robinson who organised the trip with her usual efficiency aided and abetted by Mrs. Spiller and Mr. Reeman. The sight of Concorde on the runway at Charles de Gaule airport started the trip off on the right note and everyone enjoyed an exciting and exhausting tour. At the end of May J.T. paid their annual visit to Wasdale where, once again, we had the pleasure of renewing our links with Mr. and Mrs. Johnson. The weather was mixed and a very stormy first night gave the new campers rather a rough start. However, they survived and went on to enjoy their stay. The long, hot summer allowed us to make full use of out-of-door activities both on the cricket field and on the tennis courts. The infants found the patio outside their rooms a great asset. Sport continues to flourish. The cricket team lost to Ryleys twice and to Pownall Hall but defeated King's Macclesfield twice. They tended to bowl rather better than they batted, but they should provide the nucleus of senior school cricket in the future. The under 10's in their only match proved far too strong for King's Macclesfield, when an astonishing spell of bowling by Richard Jones, who completed a hat-trick, undermined the opposition. Nicholson House enjoyed a most successful year, winning the cricket, football and tennis competitions but Warren won the athletic sports. R.D.H.R.

Page Thirty-three OLD STOPFORDIANS' ASSOCIATION President: John Birtles, 20 Mayfield Road, Bramhall. Secretary: Reg Hardie, 4 Milverton Drive, Bramhall.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

November, 1976 I am most grateful and indeed honoured, for the opportunity of being elected President of the Old Boy's Association, and I sincerely hope that this year will further strengthen the ties with the school especially during these early days of independent status with its new challenges, and where our future as an association depends on the success of creating a strong independent school. I look forward with confidence to the full support which I am sure all Old Stopfordians will give in many ways. The sporting sections of the association continue to form a strong and lively part of the Old Boys. My first official function was the 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner Dance of the Lacrosse Club, where I was delighted to be reassociated with so many former players, who, in some cases, had travelled some distance to be present on this historic occasion. It was at this function that Mrs. E. Boyle presented the Junior House Lacrosse Trophy to the school in memory of her late husband David Boyle who was one of the early members of the club and had given a great deal of his time over the years to the association and the school. I have watched a few games this season which proved most successful and I predict a very successful season. The Football Club continues to thrive although their playing strength is causing some concern. I hope they will be able to find the strength and inspira- tion to win through ensuring a successful season. The Golfing Society continues to show great interest in the game at school, and indeed promoting enjoyment amongst themselves on various local courses. I was most disappointed to miss the London dinner this year, which was again organised so ably by Mr. Goddard. Our ties with the Old Stoconians continue to grow and I enjoyed their recent dinner where I was guest of their President Brian Wainwright. Changes of address are always a constant concern amongst our records, and we are making a determined effort, so please let Richard Reeman have the details of changes. I am grateful to him for taking on this difficult task but so necessary prior to our grand Old Boy's reunion next July. After the resounding success of the Ball last January when we returned to the Town Hall, we have rebooked again for Friday January 7th 1977. Tickets are on sale now so I do ask for the fullest support from all Old Boys near and far, parents and their friends to make this evening a resounding success. Looking forward to your continued support and wishing you all best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Yours sincerely John D. P. Birtles Page Thirty-four ftSJ'ftfift*

THE CHOIR IN ST. GEORGE'S J. J. Man SCHOOL v. W. S. JOHNSTON'S XV D. Short OLD STOPFORDIANS' A.F.C. December, 1976 This season the Soccer Club is running only three teams in the Lancashire and Cheshire Amateur Football League due to the fact that several older players have retired and of the younger players, seven or eight have moved on to University and thus cannot play on a regular basis. On the field the three teams have experienced mixed fortune. The First XI, again captained by Eric Parker, have so far played 10 league matches, having won 2, drawn 3 and lost 5. In the Cheshire Saturday Cup Competition they lost by 4 goals to nil in the first round to Barnton, a Mid-Cheshire League team from Northwich and in the Stockport Senior Cup they also went out in the first round by 2 goals to 1 against Stalybridge team West Hill Old Boys. We shall shortly be missing the regular appearance of Alike Brannen on the First team as he has been moved by his Company to Newcastle-on-Tyne. Mike has played regularly on the First XI for some years and has also helped out in a lot of hard work on behalf of the club. Although we shall miss him we wish him well in his new home. The Second XI have not yet been able to form a consistent side due to first team calls and this unfortunately shows in the results as they have lost 8 of the 9 matches played so far. The Third XI have played seven games and won three of them. It is unfortunate that Captain, Steve Bailey, was injured in the first match of the season and is still out of action two months later. We hope that he will soon be back with us. The third team have been able to welcome several boys from school this season and we assume that Richard Flay, Duncan White, Mark Wardle and Tim Taylor are enjoying the game. We still have some boys with us who played last season, namely Mike Berry, Andrew Bowker (surely a first team player of the future) and Adam Caro. We hope that we may be able to persuade more boys to join the club to ensure that it continues, particularly when, on the first Saturday of the season, out of 22 players on the First and Second teams, 5 were 40 years of age or over! Once again we are grateful for the facilities provided both at school and at Dialstone Lane and our thanks are due to all concerned. G. D. Smith, "Deben", Brooklands Drive, Goostrey, Cheshire.

OLD STOPFORDIANS' LACROSSE CLUB November, 1976 On the 22nd May 1976 the Club celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a ten-a-side tournament in the afternoon between three teams of Old Stopfordians past and present, under 27,27 to 33 and over 33 and a School team followed by a Dinner Dance in the evening at the Belgrade Hotel, Stockport where the high- light was the presentation on behalf of the Club by Mrs. Boyle of the Junior House Lacrosse Trophy to the School in memory of her husband David Boyle, a great servant of the Club and of Lacrosse over the years. The Club is still thriving, running teams in the 1st, 3rd and 7th Divisions of the League. At the present time the 1st Team is high in its division having lost only two games so far and in view of an average age of 24 has plenty of potential for the future. The A and B Teams are not producing such good results and unfortunately the average age here is somewhat higher. We are pleased to welcome to the Club this season Hugh Radford and Geoff Peck who joined us straight from School and are currently playing on the 1st Team, and Tony Cheslett from Durham University who is performing with great enthusiasm. On the social side we enjoyed a successful weekend tour playing Oxford University and Hampstead where as usual we were hospitably entertained. We held a Disco Buffet Dance at the Pinewood Hotel on the 12th November which was enjoyed by those who attended but the numbers could have been greater; it is intended to hold a similar event next year but the venue may be changed. Page Thirty-five The prospect of our own Club House seems to be fading but the facilities we presently enjoy are more than adequate comprising changing and training facilities at the School, playing pitch at Dialstone Lane and for the B Team at Cheadle, supplemented by the friendly atmosphere of the Dog and Partridge Hotel, Buxton Road for Team selection meetings and after match sustenance. However, additional players are desperately required as the present playing strength is only 32; anyone interested in playing even the occasional game should contact the writer without delay. David Withington OLD STOPFORDIANS' GOLFING SOCIETY President: R. D. H. Reeman, 11 Patch Lane, Bramhall, Cheshire. Captain: Alan Bailey, 24 South Parade, Bramhall, Cheshire. Secretary: Charles E. Speight, 189 Moor Lane, Woodford, Cheshire. We had another enjoyable year's golf—playing three matches against other clubs, one against School and our own Oppida Cup Competition which was held at Marple where the winner, on his home ground was Walter Bourne. The Inchley Bowl was held at Bramhall and this was won by Rob Fulton. The three club matches were against Davenport, Hazel Grove and Marple. The results were immaterial as each visit was enjoyed by all "win or lose", as was the dinner which followed on each occasion. In local golfing circles, Old Stopfordians have been well represented this year as we number amongst our members Walter Bourne, Captain of Marple, Harry Hinchcock, Captain of Stockport, Arthur Wood, Captain of Davenport and, in addition, John Burgess has been Captain of the National Westminster Bank Golfing Society. We have been pleased with the support we have had from our members this year and hope that it will continue next season. New members will also be very welcome. NEWS OF OLD STOPFORDIANS P. D. Boardman (1956-68), his most recent achievement has been the ascent of the West wall of Changbang in the Indian Himalayas. He and Mr. Joe Tasker, a Manchester teacher, spent forty days alone on this 22,500 foot mountain, including three nights trapped by a storm in hammocks pinned to the 5,000 foot rock and ice wall. H. M. H. Carr (1965-73), is now taking an honours course in Pathology at Manchester. R. M. Case (1949-61), has been appointed Reader in Physiology in the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. He has been in the Department for several years, first as Lecturer, then as Senior Lecturer. In pursuance of his special line of research, diseases of the pancreas, Dr. Case has travelled quite widely. In 1970-71 he had a year in Aarhus University, Denmark, and at present is spending a year in the University of Sydney, Australia. D. R. Eyre (1949-62), has been appointed Assistant Professor in Bio- chemistry at Harvard Medical School. A. D. Filby (1968^-75), spent his first year with the Royal Corps of Naval Constructors partly training on shore and partly at sea with R.N. minesweepers and frigates. He is now at University College, London. R. N. Haszeldine (1935-12), has been appointed Principal of U.M.I.S.T. J. C. Moult, (1928-34), has been appointed Honorary Solicitor to the Stockport Chamber of Commerce and Industry. C. J. Seed (1963-^76), has been commissioned into the Royal Regiment of Artillery as a University Cadet, to read History at Newcastle University. C. Watson (196 -7 ), is spending a year of his Edinburgh History course studying at the University of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia. J. M. A. Whitehouse (1951-59), has been appointed to the Chair of Medical Oncology at Southampton University. F. C. Williams (1921-29), Professor of Electrical Engineering at Manchester University, was knighted in the Birthday Honours List. Page Thirty-six DEATHS P. K. Clucas (1918-23), on 12th January, 1977. Philip Clucas was a friendly, prominent member of the O.S. Lacrosse Club. N. Henshaw (1919-28), on 1st September, 1976. S. Langton (1918-25), on 31st October, 1976. N. H. Park (1940-47), October, 1976. J. Thorp (1913-20), on 24th March, 1976. LONDON O.S. DINNER The London Old Stopfordian Dinner was held on October 15th. Mr. L. S. Goddard was in the chair and Mr. J. D. Hemsley, the O.S. President, and the Headmaster were the guests. Present were: G. P. Andrew (1955-66) Rev. C. H. Lee (1927-35) A. S. Baxendale (1934-42) Capt. H. L. Lee (1932-40) G. D. Birtles (1935-43) Prof. J. R. E. Mills (1930-39) P. R. Bowden (1946-51) G. Mitchell (1930-37) J. S. Clarke (1942-51) K. L. Morgan (1933-39) A. Creighton (1933-10) P. W. Norcross (1947-52) W. F. G. Crozier (1928-35) D. Pugh (1956-68) R. B. Faulkner (1929-32) C. Rakestraw (1919-23) R. Garrett (1922-28) R. F. Riding (1947-59) F. G. Gledhill (1930-36) D. W. Rogers (1949-61) M. E. Goddard (1935-44) R. H. Sharp (1949-56) D. R. Grimes (1933-41) R. E. Smart (1919-28) J. Hitchenor (1927-36) J. H. Wilkinson (1938-49) The Dinner next year will be on Friday, October 21st. Mr. L. S. Goddard, the Secretary, has changed his address to 1, Kennedy Court, California Lane, Bushey, Watford, WD2 1ER. UNIVERSITY RESULTS 1976 Aberdeen: R. F. Povey—B.Sc. Designated Mathematics Aberystwith: J. L. Jepson—B.Sc. Botany/Zoology II (ii) Bradford: H. A. Giddings—B.A. Business Studies Cambridge: S. H. Challah—Part II—Medical Sciences II (i) M. M. Critchlow—History Part I—II (ii) A. Garrett—Part I—Natural Sciences—I P. C. Hallworth—Geography Part I—II (ii) J. A. Holt—B.A.—Law—II (ii) A. F. Jones—B.A.—History—II (ii) G. P. May—B.A.—Law—II (ii) D. J. Nicholson—Economics Part I—II (ii) M. G. Panter—B.A.—History Part II—III M. Renger—Law Part I—II (i) J. R. Street—Law Part I—II (i) R. A. Swann—M.B., B.Ch. Durham: A. B. Cheslett—B.Sc.—Mathematics—III T. J. Hancock—B.Sc.—Zoology—II (i) Edinburgh: R. M. Freeman—M.B., Ch.B. Glasgow: J. Buchan—B.D.S. Hull: A. R. Cartwright—B.A.—Politics and Modern History—II (ii) London: D. R. Harrop—Kings College Hospital—B.D.S. Nottingham: P. M. Yates—B.Sc.—Mathematics—III Oxford: R. Higson—B.A.—Mathematics—I G. A. Marsden—B.A.—History—I Salford: T. J. Pagan—B.Sc.—Environmental Science—II (i) Sheffield: I. S. Andrew—B.Sc.—Engineering—II (ii) M. J. Roche—LL.B.—Law—II (ii) R. P. Smith—B.A.—German—II (i) Page Thirty-seven DEANPRINT LTD., Cheadle Heath Works, Stockport SK3 OPR Copyright The contents of this magazine are the copyright of the Headmaster, Stockport Grammar School (February, 1977) and must not be reproduced without written consent.