Number 28 Spring 2017

Scotland’s Best Building 2016 Editorial Contents t’s a great pleasure and privilege to join The Glasgow Academy and be able to 3 Saunders Centre scoops UK’s introduce myself to you through this highly regarded and well-loved publication. richest architecture prize I have been given permission from the Rector and Malcolm to write this column I 4 The Glasgow Academy and the and edit this issue of Etcetera. Battle of the Somme It is such an exciting time to be part of a school which is steeped in a rich history and 6 The Glasgow Academy in 1916 has big aims and ambitions for the future. 9 The Legacy of Giving I join the Academy from the UK’s trade association for the pensions industry where, 12 Glasgow Academical Club for the past eight years, I was responsible for client relations, commercial activities and communications with members and stakeholders in Scotland. Prior to that I worked as 18 Westbourne Section a financial journalist with two titles in London. 21 Glasgow’s golfing Olympian I am delighted to be taking on this new challenge and working in the External 22 Professor Ronald Drever - causing Relations team as the new Director of Development. It’s also a particularly exciting more than a ripple in Physics time for my family as my wife and I have enrolled our four-year-old son to begin his 24 Meetings, get-togethers and Academy journey from Prep 1 in August this year. reunions I’ve spent much of my first few weeks getting to know staff, governors, parents and 26 Announcements pupils and I have been made to feel extremely welcome by all. It seems impossible to predict what is going to happen on any given day as no two days have been the same 30 Obituaries since I joined at the beginning of the year. 32 Remembering Ronnie Woods I would like to wish my predecessor, Mark Taylor, all the very best in his new role as 38 Tributes to Ian MacGregor Director of Alumnae Relations and Development at Roedean School in Brighton. 39 Dear Sir… Mark achieved so much in his time at the Academy, most notably the instrumental part he played in the creation of the Saunders Centre. Mark made many friends in this role and hopes to keep in touch and return to Academy events when he can. Do we have your e-mail address? This edition of Etcetera reflects on the Academy’s involvement in the First World War It’s how we communicate best! and, in particular, the Battle of the Somme. It also contains the regular features such as updates, events and reunions and pays special tributes to notable Accies we have lost during 2016. Keeping in touch The External Relations office is situated in 2017 looks set to be a busy year with lots of new pupils joining the Academy after the Colebrooke Terrace. Former pupils are always summer, with many events and activities planned in between. welcome to pop in for a chat and look round I very much hope to meet you soon! the school. Just give us a call to arrange a time. Our address is Colebrooke Terrace, Glasgow Best wishes G12 8HE and you can contact us on 0141 342 5494 or at [email protected] The Glasgow Academical Club 21 Helensburgh Drive, Glasgow G13 1RR [email protected] President: John Mason E-mail: [email protected] Steven Dignall Mark Taylor The Academical Club pavilion is available for functions. Academical Club’s London Section President – Karen Greenshields, 20 Cadogan Place London SW1X 9SA Tel: 020 7235 9012 E-mail: [email protected]

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2 Etcetera Cover photo of the Saunders Centre. Photographer Andrew Lee Saunders Centre scoops UK’s richest architecture prize

Bryan Duncan, Lead Governor of the Sci-Tech Project, reports on the road to success of The Saunders Centre. he Glasgow Academy’s newest vision was considered, compiled and multi-purpose auditorium offering a building has won the Best communicated – the essence of which is: hi-tech performance space for theatrical, TBuilding in Scotland for 2016. The ‘to do more for all our children by advancing musical and public events, enhancing the Saunders Centre was awarded the Royal our sport, arts, science, learning & teaching’. Academy’s relationship with the West End Incorporation of Architects in Scotland’s Any new building was to embody these community around. It offers permanent Andrew Doolan prize, presented by aspirations which in turn led to a wider raked seating, superb acoustics and Scotland’s Culture Secretary Fiona consideration of the campus. Page\ state-of-the-art audio/visual technology, Hyslop at the National Museum of Park were appointed to develop in including 3D Cinema – used as an Scotland in November. conjunction with the school fraternity a important teaching aid with over 300 3D development framework. Following close educational programmes available. The £15m project was part-funded by liaison with Glasgow City Planning, a The ground floor incorporates a teaching a £750,000 donation bequeathed by Lt plan emerged to demolish and replace kitchen and on each upper floor, four Col Francis Saunders, who was Scotland’s the old tenements with a fit-for-purpose general teaching labs, together with a oldest man when he died in 2013.This Science Building. sixth year lab, arranged along a glazed splendid new addition to our campus is break-out. An informal array of seating in Given the prominence of the site and its an elegant and subtle enhancement of these gathering spaces encourages chance proximity to Great Western Road, the the streetscape. Like many things in life, meetings. a decent gestation period (3-5 years), plan developed to deliver a sophisticated Perhaps insignificant on their own but truly a sound financial plan, collaboration building akin to University labs and significant in combination are the great with all stakeholders; and an excellent facilities. Major application status was number of small design details, such as, and highly committed project team, adopted as a methodology (the building is clean Scandinavian-styled interior finishes, have afforded the opportunity to fully only 3500sq.m) given the neighbourhood use of washed oak throughout, large format realise any potential – a building that and local statutory bodies/civic trusts. porcelain tiles, arbo flooring, iguzzini light transforms the way the Academy delivers This was a welcomed step and ensured fittings, skyframe doors leading to the rear education, providing inspiring facilities that best practice consultation occurred. garden space, techcrete polished and etched for generations of students and staff. Page\Park were appointed as scheme architects and the framework was lodged facades, use of krion in bathrooms and a comprehensive signage package including Our history of building has seen at least with the Council. A number of open an alumni gallery spanning 150 years. These four new builds over 20 years. But this evenings and events were held, together all help support a wonderful building. time it had to be different, as for the first with dialogue with all local politicians, time, the Academy was “breaking out” of and consent was granted in summer 2012. As one 14-year-old pupil said: “The new its historical west end campus and into The students and staff played a building has made a massive difference. The the immediate neighbourhood. particularly important role in designing atmosphere helps you study. Everything this building, both through regular works exactly as it should. Definitely worth On the back of opening a new consultations with the Pupil School the money!” Preparatory School building in 2008 Council and through focus groups of If you would like to arrange a visit to and then being able to acquire blocks student volunteers who contributed The Academy and a tour of the Saunders of structurally unsound tenement flats their ideas to Page\Park. Spaciousness, Centre, we would be delighted to see you. on the corner of Colebrooke Street and flexibility, extensive use of glass, and Please get in touch with our External Colebrooke Place (directly opposite the study and social/networking areas Relations team on 0141 342 5494. school’s Main Building), the Board of have governed the front elevation of Governors wished to take stock. A 2020 the building. At its heart is a 175-seat

Etcetera 3 The Glasgow Academy and the Battle of the Somme

Simon Wood, Head of History at The Glasgow Academy, reports on the Officer Training Corps, recruitment and the involvement of Academicals in the 17th Highland Light Infantry during the Battle of the Somme.

t seems appropriate, 100 years which was also known as the after the event, to reflect on the Glasgow Highlanders. Over 90 Iinvolvement of The Glasgow Academicals fought in its ranks. Academy in the First World War, However, I am going to look in and particularly of one unit in the detail at a unit which became Battle of the Somme. Context is known as the 17th Battalion important and it is true to say that Highland Light Infantry. In fact the links between the school and this unit’s origins lie in the great the armed forces were strong. The volunteering that took place most obvious way into the army from August 1914. The City was through the Officer Training of Glasgow recruited a number Corps, which we know today as of battalions; the 1st Glasgow, the Combined Cadet Force. By which was mainly drawn from 1914 this had been functioning the Tramway employees of for a number of years. Founded in the city; and the 2nd Glasgow, 1901 according to The Chronicle which was recruited from of October 1901. Its first official former members of the Boy’s parade took place on 27 January Brigade. However, other in 1902. 111 boys enrolled in the city institutions were stirring Corps and undertook drill twice Major John Young, Commander of B company themselves and at a meeting of a week. In the early days of the the Chamber of Commerce Corps, help was provided by members gained the Certificate, although it must Directors, held on 3 September 1914, of what were known as the Volunteer be remembered that this was the highest it was unanimously resolved to form detachments, especially the 1st Volunteer number in Scottish schools. a Glasgow Chamber of Commerce detachment of the Highland Light Battalion, which became known as Infantry. These volunteer detachments Between 1908 and 1914 annual camps ‘The Chamber of Commerce Battalion, were very popular in Scotland before were held at Barry as well as two or three 3rd Glasgow’. This became known as the war and they were a place where Field Days taking place each year. Many the 17th (Service) Battalion Highland the middle and upper classes would do members of the contingent went on to Light Infantry. No time was wasted their soldiering coupled with extensive serve in regular battalions during the First and recruitment began in earnest. ‘A’ socialising. The historian, Trevor Royle, World War. The increased militarisation company was speedily recruited and was talks about this connection in his book of the school can be seen in the numbers composed mainly of Technical College Flowers of the Forest, about Scotland in the Cadet Contingent: in June 1914 students; however, ‘B’ company, enlisted and the Great War. The reorganisation it was 149; by June 1919 348 were in its ranks pupils of the City Schools of the British army with the Haldane members. The number of Cadets who including the High School, Glasgow Reforms, brought in after the lessons took officer commissions grew year on Academy and others. The Commander of the Boer War, these Volunteer units year. By April 1916, 213 ex-members of of B Company was given to Major J R were reorganised in 1908 and became the Contingent had been commissioned Young, an Academical. The battalion the Territorial Army. As a result there while 56 were serving in the ranks. By trained Major John Young, Commander was a change in status and the name of the end of the war, approximately 500 of B company (pictured) at Gailes before the Cadet Corps became the ‘Glasgow members had been commissioned. travelling from Troon to Shropshire Academy Contingent, Officers Training And what of the contribution of and Codford. They arrived in France in Corps; Junior Division’. This change in Academicals to the actual fighting. Well November 1915 moving up to the front status led to the Corps coming under there is too much to tell in many ways. on the 24th of that month. Their first direct War office control. The aim of Academicals joined up in large numbers casualty was sustained on 4 December the Corps was clearly to train cadets and joined numerous units. There is but their first significant action was to a standard that would enable them a book worth of material waiting to a successful trench raid south of the to become officers in the Territorial be researched here, so I am just going small village of Thiepval on 23 April Army or Special Reserve. To this end to concentrate on the influence of 1916. Thirteen prisoners were captured an examination called Certificate A was Academicals and the Highland Light and enemy dug outs were bombed introduced. It was in two parts: one part Infantry. Many Academicals were [or had grenades thrown down them]. practical and the other part written. The Territorial soldiers and members of the The trench raid was led by an Accie: exam was clearly testing. By 1914 only 9th Battalion Highland Light Infantry, Lieutenant A. J. Begg who was awarded 17 Cadets from the Contingent had the Military Cross for his bravery. The

4 Etcetera ne of the ‘pals’ Battalions which went over the top on the morning of 1 July 1916 was 16th OBattalion The Highland Light Infantry. A number of Glasgow Academicals served in that unit. Three of them - 2Lt RS Brown of St Vincent Street; 2Lt JA Gemmill of Dargarvel Avenue, Dumbreck; and Pte JKP Rankin (home address not listed on the CWGC website) - lost their lives that fateful day. 16 HLI was the Glasgow Boys Brigade Battalion. So I think we may infer that many of the men in that one thousand man Battalion would have known, probably word perfect, the words of the Boys Brigade hymn. Whenever I have accompanied soldiers or cadets on battlefield tours of the Somme, I have stood with them under the huge Thiepval memorial to the missing, and as part of a memorial service read out the words of that hymn. The Thiepval memorial is very close to where they went over the top. As the words echo around the memorial, I imagine that those words went through the minds of some of those men as they waited for the whistles to blow. I also imagine that the words went through the minds of some of the survivors. By the time the Battalion came out of the line on the evening of 3 July, their casualties totalled 20 officers and 534 other ranks.

Revd Alen McCulloch (1980) Retired Army Chaplain

Boys Brigade Hymn 1 Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, The names of those who fell and those whose bodies cannot be found are carved onto the facings of the memorial. Among them are Academicals like William Mercer Alexander who when the clouds unfold their wings of strife? died on 1 July 1916 attacking at Thiepval. When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain, will your anchor drift, or firm remain? first major action the unit was involved in was the first day of the Somme. [Refrain:] This was the first time the 17th HLI were to go ‘over the top’. I calculate at We have an anchor that keeps the soul least 44 Academicals fought in the 17th HLI. Of this group, 22 died with 11 steadfast and sure while the billows roll; falling on the 1 July 1916. Therefore Academicals are involved on the day fastened to the Rock which cannot move, when the British army suffered the highest number of casualties it has ever grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love! suffered on one day. The 17th HLI were attacking just south of Thiepval and we know a lot about the attack from the battalion history. They took 2 Will your anchor hold in the straits of fear, their first trench, the Leipzig trench, easily enough but found the next when the breakers roar and the reef is near? target tougher to take. When advancing against the Hindenburg trench, While the surges rave, and the wild winds blow, by 8:15 all company officers were dead or injured. B and D companies shall the angry waves then your bark o’erflow? had effectively been annihilated; by 9 o’clock the Battalion casualties [Refrain] amounted to 22 officers and over 400 other ranks. Throughout the day they underwent horrific bombardment and two determined counter 3 Will your anchor hold in the floods of death, attacks but they held their own and were relieved by the Manchesters in when the waters cold chill your latest breath? the afternoon and evening. The Battalion history correctly points out that, On the rising tide you can never fail, ‘The 17th HLI was the only Battalion which reached and occupied and while your anchor holds within the veil. held the enemies’ trenches from La Boiselle northwards’. The author of the [Refrain] Sherlock Holmes stories, who lost his son in the war, Arthur Conan Doyle, writing of the Somme himself said: “In the desperate circumstances it might 4 Will your eyes behold through the morning light well be considered a remarkable result that a stretch of the Leipzig Redoubt the city of gold and the harbour bright? should be won and permanently held by the Highlanders, especially by the Will you anchor safe by the heavenly shore, 17th Highland Light Infantry.” Subsequently the unit served at Beaumont when life’s storms are past for evermore? Hamel before moving north to Ypres and the battle of Passchendaele. [Refrain] Eventually the 17th was broken up in 1918 and its men distributed among other HLI units. The huge sacrifice of men during the Battle of the Priscilla J. Owens Somme is commemorated in the massive memorial, designed by Edward Lutyens at Thiepval today.

Etcetera 5 The Glasgow Academy in 1916

uring the school year of 1916/17, 710 boys attended The Glasgow ‘We owe it to those who have given their lives DAcademy aged between 6 and 17 years old. The overriding impact on the for us - the flower of our youth, the hope way of life of the school was the impact and promise of the future - that their supreme of the First World War. Yet school life sacrifice shall not be in vain went on and we can see this particularly .’ through the school magazine: Glasgow Academy Chronicle. The war was ever present but school life went on; classes were taught and sporting fixtures fulfilled. Plays were undertaken with the major school production that year being The Mock Trial. This play imagined the theft of Cleopatra’s needle by Julius Caesar, who was subsequently murdered by Caius Cassius, who was then put on trial (pictured). Witnesses included Pompey, Ptolemy, Alexander the Great, Brutus and Cicero. This Classical Extravaganza was well received with even the dress of the unfortunate boy, a certain J M Mackay who had to be Cleopatra, complimented as being “excellent”. The Academy had a thriving debating society and photographic club at that time as well as a keen Rambling Association undertaking walks to Lennox town, over the Kelvin and to ‘The Temple, who became Rector after the tie, so that sartorially, as in all other ways, Whangie’. The photographic club did a long-serving Donald Morrison. Temple he set us a fine example. A great friend of series of stimulating talks, demonstrations was Rector between 1899 and 1932. He the Academy boys, he was most unwilling and exhibitions throughout the year. was the son of a Scottish Episcopalian to believe that any of them had done wrong, There was a strong representation in Clergyman, born in Strathtay Perthshire and where there was doubt the boy always sport with many regular winter fixtures and educated at Glenalmond College, got the benefit of it. Boys of course had to be playing rugby association football. The Fettes then Pembroke College reprimanded, but he reprimanded them most Academy had a good first XV at the time Cambridge. He was appointed Rector gently, almost jokingly, as when he would say, with only two losses that season and a of The Glasgow Academy at the ripe old ‘Up on the form, Herriot, up on the form’. thumping win of 57 points to nil over age of 31. One boy was told he was, ‘An imp, a gnome, a sprite, a goblin’, by nature good-tempered, he Stewart’s College. The Second XV did The school seems to have been his life in was seldom angry or harsh.’ not fare so well, though there was a keen more ways than one. His portrait used to internal competition between the school hang on the upper gallery, facing the War The war intruded on school life in houses of that time: North, West, South Memorial that enshrined the names of a number of ways. The boys raised and Hill. There was an extensive summer the Academicals who gave lives for their considerable money for a variety of games programme with cricket, tennis, country in the First World War. Most of war-related causes ranging from the swimming and athletics. The cricket team the men named on that wall would have Scottish Women’s Hospital to Belgian was not bad, winning notable victories been taught by him. He knew his boys Relief to the Red Cross and Prisoners of over Glasgow University, Morrison’s and and they did not forget him. A rather War. Most money raised went to help in Royal High School, but there was no wonderful description of him was left by the production of warm woollen mittens hiding from the commentary written Andrew Robertson, master between 1898 and an ‘Academy Ladies Work-Party’ had in The Chronicle after one particularly and 1934. become expert knitters and seamstresses bad defeat against Glenalmond when by 1916, with the school producing ‘Dr Temple was a man of great natural dignity, the school scored 15 runs against so-called ‘Fearnought’ gloves for the navy. but he certainly assumed no grand airs, and Glenalmond’s 71. The commentary read Under the watchful eye of the head of was, indeed, very modest and unpretentious. that‘terribly bad running between wickets Prep, the formidable Miss MacCallum, He was invariably well groomed, in a lounge made this defeat worse than it might have the school had produced 3,908 pairs by suit of clerical grey, which in some mysterious been, but the batting was also extremely feeble.’ June of 1916. The school received letters way always seemed to be brand new, with a thanking them for the efforts from no less The Rector in 1916 was Edwin white shirt, stiff white collar and a dark bow

6 Etcetera a person than Admiral Sir John Jellicoe, died during that battle, with 13 dying team before the war. On his death who wrote from his ship, HMS Iron on the first day of the battle. Of these Laird left a gift of £20 to the Glasgow Duke, that year, ‘thank you for your letter 12 were from either the 16th or 17th Academy which was to be banked and of 21 March, enclosing examples of gauntlets Highland Light Infantry. The lists of used in the following manner. ‘Out of the made by the ladies of the Glasgow Academy Deaths on service in The Chronicle of above sum a Cricket Bat is to be presented to Working Party, which have been sent to the October 1916 are truly awful to read: 46 the boy who scores 100 or more runs in one crews of Destroyers and other small craft, The names as well as those of their grieving innings while playing for the 1st XI, no boy gloves are excellently made and very suitable parents are listed. to get more than one bat per season.’ We still for use in the fleet, will you please assure the follow this tradition today, though the The school made great efforts to track ladies who have worked so hard for the comfort lucky winner now gets £100 to buy a down Accies who were serving in the of the men of the fleet that their kindness is new bat. This is followed by this quote, forces and the Academical Club, though very greatly appreciated.’ ‘Besides the above bequest, made by one who many activities were stopped, took an was thinking of the happy years he has spent There were strong connections between active interest, noting that at least 1,000 at the Academy and in the cricket field, his the school and the armed forces. In 1916 old Academy boys were serving in His parents and brothers desire to found a prize in the so called effectives in the Officer Majesty’s forces by 1916. Great pride was his memory, to be competed for at the Annual Training Corps numbered 139. In 1909 taken in the War Honours that were won Sports, and to be known as the Arthur D there were only 56. These boys could by ex-pupils and they make an impressive Laird Prize. The exact details of this have not expect commissions in the British armed read, ranging from the Victoria Cross to yet been fixed, but we take the opportunity of forces and so they did. These were in the Distinguished Service Cross to being acknowledging with gratitude both the bequest predominantly Scottish units though mentioned in despatches. All was placed and the prize.’ The prize was created and there were a smattering of Academicals in in the front pages of The Chronicle. was first presented in 1921 for the winner the Australian and New Zealand Corps I finish on the following note: while there of the 100 yards race at school sports day. showing the sinews of Empire / work and was commitment to the forces and to It is still in use today. the military in action. war there was still time for compassion In 1916 The Chronicle noted that, ‘We It is no surprise to find essays in The and ordinary life at school. The Academy owe it to those who have given their lives for Chronicle from Accies who served prize giving continued as normal, as did us - the flower of our youth, the hope and and fought in the war. During the sports day, which included the splendidly promise of the future - that their supreme course of 1916 there were thoughts named Place ‘Kick’ Open event, won by sacrifice shall not be in vain.’ I can think of from those Accies who participated CWL Duncan in 1916. Yet even in 1916 no better words and it is to the credit of in Gallipoli, the Battle of Jutland [one there was an appreciation that the past that generation that they are remembered Accie was surgeon-probationer on HMS and the future were interlinked. One in the fine institution that is The Glasgow Sparrowhawk]and even those who small way that exists today is the fact that Academy. experienced the Easter Rising in Dublin. in 1916 Lieutenant A. D. Laird of the 17th What is surprising is the remarkably frank HLI died on the first day of the Battle Simon Wood and honest accounts that are given. For of the Somme. He was an Accie and ex example here is a short piece from one school captain in 1906-7 and skipper of account on life on the Western Front; the Glasgow Academicals 1st XV Rugby ‘It’s a great life out here, mud and more mud everywhere. We have done two spells in the fire trenches and already feel like seasoned veterans, but, of course, in reality we have any amount of experiences to learn and hardships to undergo. When we go up to the trenches we are laden so that we can hardly stagger along. All goes well for a few yards and then the guide goes splash into liquid mush and water up to his knees, and we follow of course, we all follow, slipping and stumbling, splashed with mud and water and to the accompaniment of shells humming over, or the ping of a bullet as it strikes the parapet of the trench.’ However, nothing was going to anticipate the huge loss of life and impact of the Battle of the Somme on the school. By the end of the year The Chronicle was recognising that, ‘In the great struggle the Academy has again suffered keenly’ and the casualty lists recorded in The Chronicle grow longer as the year progresses. These lists were dominated by casualties from the Battle of the Somme. 56 Academicals

Etcetera 7 Commentary We are all Flourishing

think my article on the connection ompiled from the almost daily between Glasgow Academy and the letters home and a diary written IHighland Light Infantry (City of Cin the immediate aftermath of the Glasgow Regiment) was indeed timely, First World War, We are all Flourishing is a fortiori as not only following Hugh a remarkable first-hand account of one Barrow’s two articles in previous editions man’s service during 1914-19. Former and now sandwiched between the two Pupil Walter Coats (1901-1905) was Cameronian-biased ones of Simon Wood an officer with the 9th Highland Light and Jimmy Murray (Etcetera No. 27). Infantry (Glasgow Highlanders) - one of the first territorial battalions dispatched In fact I think Simon Wood’s article to the Western Front. Anticipation vindicates my claim of more Accies builds from mobilisation in August having been in the Highland Light 1914, through intensive training in and Infantry (HLI) than in the Cameronians around Dunfermline, up to eventual (Scottish Rifles). What I have to concede, embarkation for France the following however, is that most of the talented Accie November. Sent into action, Walter rugby players of the era seem to have describes winter days and nights in gravitated towards the Cams. At least in open trenches equipped with kilts and the 2nd World War the HLI could claim ordinary-issue footwear. As battalion responsibilities. This part of his account the great Herbert Waddell who served machine gun officer, he participated in also sheds new light on the mid-level with distinction in the 11th HLI. the Battles of Neuve-Chapelle, Loos command administration of the British and Arras; the Third Battle of Ypres and Expeditionary Force and the consequent Finally, in his article Simon Wood the Somme - notably at High Wood daily challenges that, more often than mentions the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th in July 1916, where the Highlanders not, affected the life-or-death situations HLI. The 8th HLI, unlike the 8th were almost wiped out, losing over 800 encountered on the battlefield. While Cameronians, had an undistinguished men killed, wounded and missing. In Walter’s life was still fraught with personal war. Not having enough volunteers to between the big battles and line-holding danger and narrow escapes, his kindness serve abroad it never left British shores. in less active sectors, we hear tales of and consideration to officers and men, The battalion he perhaps ought to have ordinary trench routine, training, sudden love of family and dry sense of humour mentioned was the 9th HLI (Glasgow movements, billeting expeditions, billets continue to shine through. Walter’s story Highlanders) who as I remarked in and interactions with the local populace. is illustrated with an impressive array of my previous article were detached Walter’s story is also one of amusing images and maps. Compiled and edited from 157 (HLI) Brigade in November anecdotes, descriptions of wartime by his great-nephew, Jan Chojecki 1914 and sent to France where they entertainments and humorous verse that - and co-edited by military historian fought valorously till the Armistice. On reflects how morale was maintained in Michael LoCicero - We are all Flourishing mobilization and subsequently when times of unrelenting terror and occasional is a comprehensive and moving work frequently reinforced over the next boredom. offering new and unique insights into life four years of grim attrition warfare the In 1917, torn between battalion loyalty at the sharp end of conflict and on the Glasgow Highlanders were strongly and a promise to his family to take on Home front. officered by Glasgow Accies. ‘safer’ employment, Walter is transferred For more details of the book, please visit to 100th Infantry Brigade Staff - his Colin Winter (1962) www.helion.co.uk subsequent experience providing rare late The Royal Highland Fusiliers insights into a staff captain’s life and

8 Etcetera The Legacy of Giving

Generations of deserving Academy pupils have benefited from the generosity of former pupils and others whose gifts have made it possible for them to receive a first-class education. Such gifts are a very important source of income to the school; they allow The Academy to invest in new facilities and to provide bursary support to families who need help with fees. A bequest for any amount, large or small, can have a real impact on our future development and success, and can be a lasting contribution to the education of future generations, memorialising in perpetuity – should you wish – your name or that of a loved one. Gifts made to bodies with charitable status such as The Glasgow Academicals’ War Memorial Trust are tax exempt. A legacy gift can take the form of cash, stocks, shares or property and making a bequest to The Academy could reduce the tax paid on your estate. We will ensure your gift is used for the purposes which you specify.

Ian Carswell Hood Kelvin Foundation A very significant gift from the estate of All members of our community Want to make a difference to The Ian Carswell Hood (1947), specifically who pledge or make a legacy Glasgow Academy? earmarked for a significant project, has gift to The Academy are invited The Academy recruits new Governors on an ensured work will begin on creating a new to join our Kelvin Foundation. ongoing basis and we are seeking expressions of first-class nursery on the site of the former The Foundation meets for lunch interest from those who can make a difference. Newlands Bowling Club. The Glasgow with the Rector each Autumn New Governors are elected to the Board at the Academy Newlands Nursery will open in Term when members are Annual General Meeting each November. August 2017 with thanks to the generosity updated on school successes, of Ian in remembering his old school. plans and developments. If you As a Governor, you will play a pivotal role in helping the Chairman and the Senior Leadership Ian attended The Academy from 1935 until would like to learn more about Team set the strategic direction of The Academy. 1947. He joined the Army under national the Kelvin Foundation, please service in 1948 and was commissioned as contact Steven Dignall on 0141 Your role will be to ensure the education a 2nd Lieutenant in 1949. He left the Army 342 5494 or via S.Dignall@tga. provided is of the highest quality and resources in 1950 and joined his father’s firm John org.uk are used most effectively. We strive to nurture Hood and Co which dealt in non-ferrous Named Bursary funds our young people, enabling them to develop metal. A number of former pupils confidence and a spirit of ‘can do, will do’. We Ian was a very active sportsman and have made or pledged legacy have high expectations and encourage our pupils played badminton for Glasgow and also gifts to enable a deserving and to work hard and to be the very best they can be. won the Scottish tennis club championship talented youngster to benefit You don’t need to be an expert in education. You while playing for Titwood tennis club. He from a Glasgow Academy will have an enquiring mind and a commitment married his wife Shirley in 1955 and set education. A six-figure sum is to helping us maintain and improve the high up home in Newton Mearns, Glasgow and required to establish a new standards of all aspects of The Academy. You will although Ian dedicated himself to building memorial Bursary fund in your receive training and support to help you in this and expanding the business he still found name – or in the name of a role. time to pursue sporting interests with loved one. If you would like We are keen to ensure our Board reflects the Shirley and enjoyed gardening and dog to learn more about giving walking. a young person the chance diversity of The Glasgow Academy community. We want to hear from people with a diverse Ian and Shirley were both very keen salmon to benefit from an Academy range of skills, backgrounds and knowledge who anglers and travelled to Sutherland to fish education through a legacy are keen to make a difference. loch Dionard and to Perthshire to fish the gift, please get in touch and we river Tay, and also enjoyed many weekends will be happy to discuss your Your commitment would involve attendance at in the house they had built in Gatehouse of wishes in confidence. up to six board meetings a year. You will be a Fleet. Sadly in 1995 Shirley died of cancer Every gift to The member of one of the Board’s sub-committees after a short illness. Ian continued to fish Academy makes a and take part in the wider Academy life. for many years at the river Tay with fellow difference Please note this role is non remunerated. Glasgow Accies Kenneth Munro, Alistair If you are interested in being considered for the Stirret, Alistair Headrick and Duncan Stang Every gift is sincerely who all enjoyed many successful trips. Ian appreciated. You don’t have Board of Governors, please send your supporting lived independently in his house in Newton to leave a huge sum to make statement setting out your interest and suitability Mearns before admitting himself to the a big impact on the quality of for this role in the first instance by Friday 28 April Accord hospice, Paisley where he died six our facilities or the reach of our 2017 to: Bursary fund. Gifts soon add up days later after fighting a long battle with Thomas W Gemmill to ensure that, collectively, we cancer. Secretary to the Board can make a massive difference The Glasgow Academy, Colebrooke Street, Ian’s memory will also live on through the to the quality of the education Saunders Centre with one of the Chemistry provided at Kelvinbridge, Glasgow G12 8HE, Labs on the third floor named after him. Milngavie and Dairsie.

Etcetera 9 Travel nostalgia!

udget airlines and their cheap fares have transformed travel Bopportunities to Europe and beyond. Mainland Europe involves 1-2 hours flying time from most UK airports. Some 50 or so years ago air travel was a luxury – and travelling to Europe was a bit more complicated - see below. It was April 1962 when, armed with my British Visitor’s Passport (cost 10/6 or £0.525!!), and simple suitcase I joined with a party of other 11 – 12-year-old Academy boys at Central Station to travel by overnight train to London. This was a school trip to Paris and the Loire under the supervision of Mr and Mrs Morty. Fond farewells from anxious parents and we were off - not much sleep I recall in the four-berth compartments, too much chatting and excitement. After arrival at Euston the next morning we were transported somewhere for breakfast (perhaps a Lyons Corner House) and then to London Victoria for plans to go to the top of the Arc de we headed back to UK reality. the next leg – a train to Dover then the Triomphe had to be cancelled; French cross-channel ferry to Calais. A somewhat army soldiers were stationed there. The It would be interesting to hear of any turbulent crossing on the SS Invicta Champs Elysees, the Louvre and the memories from others who recall that (Clyde built and a survivor of Dunkirk) Sacré Coeur at Montmartre featured in trip. Looking back it really was quite followed - I recall just managing to avoid our tour but not the Eiffel Tower. We an undertaking and a responsibility the sea-sickness that seemed to affect so travelled on the Metro – which was a bit for the Blacks to ensure the safety and many other passengers. different from the Glasgow Subway that wellbeing of their young charges - which they managed impeccably. In Next was a train to Paris – austere we were familiar with! On the Sunday of those days I imagine there was a much carriages pulled by a steam engine to our visit we attended a church service in more pragmatic approach to risk and Amiens, then a change to a fast electric the Scottish Church in Paris. travel – and probably not too many risk locomotive that sped us on to Paris - all We were then transported to tours assessment and health and safety forms to very exciting for those of us interested by coach for two or three days where complete. in trains! It must have been a very tired we visited chateaux at Chambord and appearing group of children that was Chenonceaux - so much of the history Perhaps most importantly the adventure presented to the hotel that evening. of these places would have gone over our provided us all with a sense of adventure and an exposure to another culture - It was a tall, thin hotel with a mixture of young heads at the time but the image stimulating interest in things French normal and French-style toilets (which of their architecture has stayed with for some or all those who went. My caused much comment amongst us!) - no me over the years. The helical staircase experience of that trip undoubtedly en suite bathrooms in these days and we at Chambord and the grandeur of contributed to my ongoing Francophiliia. slept four to a room, I think. From our Chenonceaux built out over the river - I bedroom window we looked down on still even have a half-decent print of the In driving to Southwest France this year I the street where there were numerous latter taken then with my Brownie 127 took the chance to re-visit the Chateaux quite old-fashioned looking green and camera (more nostalgia!). of Chenonceaux and Chambord this year cream buses with open rear platforms. After that it was back to Paris briefly. A with my wife. It made me reflect on that Much to our childish amusement on the day or two more enjoying croissants and 1962 trip and prompted me to draft this side of these buses were adverts for an jam for breakfast then the return journey brief memoir of the trip. orange drink called Pschittt! Opposite the involving the train journeys and the ferry Arriving in Paris by a direct 1-2 hour hotel was a café with a pinball machine – again with a lively crossing. These were flight seems a rather dull way of travelling and we somehow managed to get to play the early days of the then new-fangled in comparison. on it with our (old) francs and centimes. transistor radio and we heard from At that time there were terrorist problems someone on the ferry that Scotland were Alastair Smith in France from Algerian separatists – so beating England 2-0 at Hampden Park as Sway, Hampshire, 1955-1967

10 Etcetera Chief Petty Officer Frankie Parkes: setting the record straight? Hoskins Dear Etcetera intoned Frankie. “Was that increment or ention of the above named in the I was a bit taken aback by John Macnab’s excrement?” whispered my pal Davey, last edition of Etcetera brought recollections of Frankie Parkes. John making sure Frankie didn’t overhear. Mback a vivid memory. appears to have been several years later That dapper wee man was quite an than me in his Accie career, and maybe In July 1958 the RN Section of the authoritarian - what Chic Varley would Frankie had mislaid his matador cloak School CCF held its annual training have called a martinet. He had the rare (ermm, teacher’s plain black issue gown) ability (in those days) of being able to camp at HMS Drake the Royal Navy by the time The Macnab passed his control a class without resorting to shore base at Plymouth. During one of way. He must have been approaching corporal punishment, using just the lash the morning sessions I was a Leading retirement in any case; 30 years separated of his sarcasm. Any schoolboy chatter was Sailor in charge of six cadets attending a my dad’s time from my time at The nipped in the bud: “Cut the cackle and lecture on navigation buoys given by a Academy but we shared at least three get on with the work!” regular RN Lieutenant. Also in the class teachers: Baggy, the dread Geordie were about 10 regular leading seamen. Preston, and Frankie - who mysteriously I remember idiosyncrasies too: as I recall, Every time he asked the class a question it was dubbed ‘Freddie’ in my dad’s day. Frankie wasn’t averse to using the sleeve was always an Academy boy who had his of his gown to dust the blackboard if no I remember a former school pal hand up first and regularly he provided duster were to hand. I also found that my suggesting Frankie as a good case for old school scarf had become a rag in his the correct answer. reminiscences. He was certainly an classroom, for cleaning up ink stains. I could sense some tension arising and impressive Maths teacher, in that (like Yours eventually the Lieutenant called out: in teaching a jazz riff) he slowed down “Who is in charge of these cadets?” the unfamiliar first moves of differential Graeme Orr (1965) calculus. “To x take a small increment dx” I called out: “I am, sir!” “How is it that these boys know all these answers?” a couple of years ago as well as one ‘Jock’ from Peter Brodie when I had made “We are taught by a Chief Petty Officer I was delighted to receive the latest a donation to The Academy Bursary who comes into the school on Monday edition of Etcetera with many lovely Fund. afternoons from the local RNVR unit,” appreciations of those who had known Greetings and all good wishes especially I replied. ‘Jock’ over the years when he had to any friends who may remember me. “Who is he?” he demanded. been in Glasgow Academy. In fact I had wondered about the possibility of Henry Murray Humphreys “Chief Petty Officer Hoskins,” I replied. a memorial service of thanksgiving in (1955-1959) “Hoskins, Hoskins, are you sure?” the school after learning that the family members had requested for a private P.S. Whereas I find it difficult to recall “Yes, sir. That is his name, I am certain,” funeral. So I was delighted to learn from a lot of the Milton poetry in Baggy I said. the Etcetera that you held a memorial/ Aston’s English lessons - which I found thanksgiving at the end of June. to be a bit remote from real life at the There was an audible gasp from the time - I still remember Jock Carruthers’ regular sailors. “Do you know that he This is an event I would have loved pantomime songs which he got the to attend but it’s too far to travel from was the Chief Gunnery Instructor at audience to sing, as they were very Kenya where I have duties to attend in Chatham, the equivalent to a Regimental relevant to life as I knew it. Sergeant Major in the Guards and a strict the University. However I know that disciplinarian?” he replied. many friends took part in a memorable Two verses of the pantomime songs are: occasion. This information rapidly went round the Tweet tweet tweet go the birdies in the trees, shore base and for the rest of the week the I particularly appreciated the happy And flip flop flip goes the bunny. Buzz buzz buzz go the busy little bees, Academy Cadets were given a bit more memories of ‘Jock’ from Roy Chapman, who was Rector from 1975 to 1982 And the butterflies are fluttering in my respect. and from my old class mate Peter tummy. The following summer Major Carruthers Larkman, who went on to combine the mentioned that the Naval Section’s drill duties of school captain and RSM in Squeak squeak squeak we have got a little was a bit sloppy. This didn’t go down the corps in his final year (1960-61) at mouse, well with CPO Hoskins and we soon the school. Miaow miaow miaow we’ve got a kitten. Woof woof woof there’s a doggy in the house, learned on the parade ground what strict I am happy to see that Graham And they all chase each other round the disciplinarian really meant. Ah, happy Scott was one of the speakers at the kitchen. days! memorial. I recall receiving a very nice letter of appreciation from Graham Henry Murray Humphreys (1955-59) Alasdair Graham

Etcetera 11 Glasgow Academical Club

Accies Rugby 150th Anniversary… A Double Celebration

Two ‘Seniors’ cutting the cake planned 150th Anniversary Dinner in April. What joy and euphoria for all involved, however, we should not forget the many 1st XV players and captains who, in the years since 1997 following the formation of Glasgow Hawks, committed Team of 1870 themselves to playing many seasons in the lower leagues in the hope of returning Last season saw Accies 1st XV win the Academical as well as a past Accies Accies rugby to the National Leagues. West Div 1 League and a return to Rugby Captain, and also a teacher at rugby’s National Leagues after a 19 year The Academy, was assisted by past Club The 2015-16 Anniversary season absence, and how fitting it was to have captains Tony Smith and Ross Chassels started with a celebration lunch in the happened in the club’s 150th Anniversary for the last two seasons. Victory in the Clubhouse before the first match of the season. final match of the season took place at season, against Kilmarnock RFC with Allan Glens and secured the league title SRU President Eddie Crozier as guest of Club coach, Andrew Jackson, an just two weeks prior to the long-time Honour.

2016 team and trophy

12 Etcetera Far left: SRU President Eddie Crozier refereeing

SRU presentation to Robin McNaught

Sponsors There have been many generous Rugby sponsors over the years but we would Senior past rugby captain Colin Guthrie He also attended the ‘150th’ Dinner, particularly wish to acknowledge at this (1955) and Senior past Academical Club when 240 players past and present time the outstanding generosity for the President Andrew Howie (1977) joined enjoyed a special night, organised by 150th season of the family of late Past Eddie Crozier in cutting the cake. Gordon Wilson and Donald Reid. Rugby President Brian Gibson, who kindly Chairman Robin McNaught, on behalf President Crozier, a long-time referee and donated, in Brian’s memory, a new of the club, accepted a gift, from Eddie good friend of Accies, was a constant help electronic score-board, as well as a set of Crozier, of an engraved silver salver and support to the Club throughout his new posts and pads for the 1st XV pitch. courtesy of the SRU. year in office and even took an active part We are also hugely indebted to another in the Celebration Day on 23 April by That day there was also a fun over 35’s Academical, John Watson OBE, who refereeing the 1st XV match against West match, refereed by a regular at New generously donated to the publishing of Scotland and fellow Founder Clubs. Anniesland and SRU official, William costs of the ‘150th’ Rugby History He is likely to be the first SRU President Malone, from Oban. Both referees can booklet, due out shortly, and who has also to have refereed a match during his term be seen in the centre of each photo, with committed to sponsoring the club for of office. their respective match teams. this season to promote the Marie Curie Charity of which he is already a generous Grand Match Teams benefactor.

Golden Oldies Teams

Etcetera 13 John Beattie leading The Celebration Matches out the teams John Beattie has been a wonderful ambassador for Accies rugby over many years, as well as for Scottish rugby, and all Academicals were so proud and pleased when he was elected Academical Club President for the Club’s special 150th landmark year. The exposure he gave the Young Johnny Beattie Club on TV during the Calcutta Cup match at Twickenham was outstanding. He was Many representatives from fellow founder seen presenting the ‘cap’ won by Academical and neighbouring clubs attended, and J.W.Arthur in 1871 on the occasion of the speeches were made by club archivist, first International between Scotland and Hugh Barrow, and John Rutherford, the England, to Bill Beaumont of the RFU, so Scottish internationalist of the 80’s who that it could be displayed at Twickenham played alongside John Beattie Snr. alongside the first English ‘Cap’. Alastair Kellock who had played Throughout the 150th season in particular, International rugby alongside another John Beattie’s presence on the touchline at Accies Internationalist, young Johnnie Anniesland, and his encouragement of the Beattie, delivered a most entertaining speech, and brought a recorded interview he had conducted with Johnnie, while visiting he and his wife Jen in France, where Johnnie presently plays with French side, Bayonne.

Alastair was able to surprise Johnnie John Beattie and Brian Simmers with the news that Accies rugby wanted Alastair Kellock with the Coach and Captain to present him with an engraved salver for being the most capped, and 83rd Academical Internationalist. His father John was called upon to receive the salver on young Johnnie’s behalf, from fellow Accies International legend, Brian Simmers. Alastair Kellock congratulated the club on becoming West Div 1 Champions and John Beattie and Bill Beaumont presented special awards to coach Andrew players, had an invaluable effect, and was Jackson and team Captain Craig Wright. greatly appreciated. The final speech of the evening was by All sports sections at New Anniesland are Robbie Duncan, a well-known Ayrshire Menu will find them on the Rugby Club fortunate to have such a good relationship after-dinner speaker with affiliations to Ayr website at www.glasgowacciesrfc.com with the School, and the use of such Rugby Club, whose humour was quite outstanding, and he sent everyone home fine facilities. The Rugby Section was During this 2016/17 season, the Club has with a smile on their faces, and a feeling of: particularly delighted to be able to hold its continued playing exciting and quality “Well done Accies… I’m glad I was there.” 150th Celebration Dinner in the School’s rugby and is among the league leaders in Cargill Hall, with Rector Peter Brodie as Anyone interested in reading the ‘150th’ National League Div 3 and still vying for their guest. Souvenir Match Programme and Dinner promotion.

14 Etcetera The Annual Academical Golf outing took place at Pollok Golf Annual Golf Outing Club on 23 October 2016. It was a great day in convivial company, beginning with a most excellent carvery before proceeding to the first tee! The prize winners were: Handicap Trophy - Nigel Campbell Seniors’ Trophy - John McNaught Scratch Trophy - Angus Watson Great thanks are also due to John Mason for looking after the Golf Section over many years. Due to a change in business, he wishes to relinquish this position. We are now looking for a new Secretary to take on this, hopefully, not too taxing role. Please contact:- John M Watson OBE [email protected] and/or Gordon Wilson [email protected]

Trip to Augusta The event did not disappoint. The organisation is superb. There is no tented In last year’s autumn edition of Etcetera village and no sponsorship so the whole there was a report on the golf event area is given over to the golf without arranged by John Watson at Killermont an advertising hoarding in sight. The to celebrate 150 years of the Academical course is even more difficult than it looks Club. The first prize was a trip for two on television. Every hole goes uphill, to the Masters Tournament in Augusta downhill or both and the undulating in April this year. I was the fortunate greens are lightning fast. Breaking par winner of this wonderful prize. there is quite an achievement and well It was a trip I had long wanted to make beyond the capabilities of most amateur and it came at a good time as I had given golfers. up work earlier in the year with the David Stirling on the 15th fairway at Augusta If any golfer gets the opportunity to express intention of spending more time visit this event, they should take it. I am to play some golf before making our travelling. My wife is also a golfer, so she very grateful to John for giving such an way to Augusta, well briefed by other and I were well pleased to be boarding opportunity to me. a plane to Atlanta at the end of March. Academicals who had previously made We visited Pinehurst and Wilmington the pilgrimage. David Stirling 1956-68

committee, some of London Academical Section whom were not born John Beattie and Brian Simmers The Summer of 1983 marked a special moment in history at the time David for The Glasgow Academical London Section. A that time became Secretary! Alastair Kellock with the Coach and Captain David Hall (pictured) became Secretary and Treasurer of the In addition, we now committee and we are sure that no one could have foreseen have two female that he would continue to hold this position for the next 33 committee members, years until his retirement this summer. David organised annual one of whom is the dinners with an array of highly regarded guests and of course current president, the noteworthy London Section Centenary dinner of 2013 which is testament to also marked David’s 30 years in his post. Several social events David’s forward thinking and alignment with the School’s ethos. including cocktail parties, informal gatherings and the infamous London Scottish Schools ceilidh at the Caledonian Club were Ensuring strong links with the school was extremely important attributable to David. to David. He founded the School’s “London Prize” and the “London Bursary”, actively encouraging Academicals London can be a daunting place and this has allowed in London to support these tangible connections. His Academicals working and living there to have a home away achievements for the Section have been truly remarkable and, from home. David arranged the Bisley dinner annually and most importantly, fully appreciated by every Academical in ensured that a Glasgow Academy team was entered every year London. in the London Scottish Schools Golf Day. We are grateful for David’s love of detail and his infamous collation of lists will be For those living there who have not experienced this fantastic appreciated for years to come. There is not a speaker or past vibrant network, please join us on Friday 10 March, the eve of committee member in history that we don’t have a fulsome the Calcutta Cup match, in the splendid Caledonian Club for note of! David was instrumental in the development of the our Annual Dinner with special guest speakers. Please contact London Section, making extraordinary efforts to ensure that the Liz McGowan in External Relations @ [email protected] next generation of Academicals in London were encouraged to for more information. join. He had the foresight to introduce new members onto the

Etcetera 15 A walk to the end of the world

inisterre, Spain, the end of the up walking the popular section of the some way would be to give thanks for world; the end of my Pilgrim Camino Frances, as the main route is Dorothy’s recovery. I decided to walk FCamino walk; indeed, the end of called, from St. Jean Pied De Port at the the entire Camino Frances from Le Puy my Camino walking; but hopefully not foot of the Pyrenees on the French side to Santiago De Compostela and then the end of me, yet. This was my big “75” to Santiago, a distance of 487 miles. I continue on to Finisterre. Pilgrims in the challenge and I reached Finisterre on my thought that would be the end of my middle ages walked there to watch the 75th birthday in July, having walked the interest in the Camino. Then in 2003 I sun fall into the sea, as it was believed at 370 miles from Salamanca. hinted to Dorothy, my wife, that I had a that time. The distance was 1010 miles. I mind to walk from the actual start of the completed it in 57 days. One of my ambitions when I retired Camino Frances (in France it is known as was to walk the pilgrims’ way, more As in my previous walks I asked my Le Chemin de Saint Jacques) in Le Puy commonly known as “El Camino de friends to sponsor me and for this one en Velay in the Auvergne area of France Santiago De Compostela” in northern they generously raised over £3000 for down to St Jean Pied de Port. Dorothy’s Spain. I first came across the Camino cancer research. response was “away you go and I’ll get on the television holiday programmes some peace” and with that I was off to 2008 and the Camino was calling again. years ago. Fascinated I read about it and walk the 463 miles. With less time to walk, I flew to Porto decided that one day I just had to walk it. and from there walked the Portuguese As I approached the big “60” for some Unfortunately at Christmas that year way to Santiago, 151 miles. Galicia and unexplainable and idiotic reason I Dorothy was diagnosed with cancer but northern Portugal claim to be the wettest decide that I should give myself a 60th thankfully she has fully recovered. Having area of Europe, a fact I can certainly birthday challenge. So it was that I ended undertaken a 60th birthday challenge confirm. then I should undertake one for my 65th. In 2011 the 70th birthday challenge It was only natural that the challenge in Class photo taken in 1955 did not materialize as I had a prolonged chest infection. However two years later, restless again, I decided to walk one of the other Camino routes, the Via de la Plata from Seville up to Santiago – 625 miles. Obstinately I started in August, against all advice, in temperatures of 45 centigrade. It was like walking in a furnace and after 10 days I gave up. Not to be thwarted in 2015 I set off once more but to my great disappointment this also ended in failure when I suffered a torn calf muscle. By this time I had reached the city of Salamanca, 315 miles from Seville. These failures nagged at me so that I resolved for my 75th birthday challenge in 2016 to complete the Camino and also continue on to Finisterre. After 370 miles walking I arrived at the end of the world

16 Etcetera on my birthday, and feeling I have to say The routes are extremely well signposted you present your credencial at the quite “chuffed”. with painted yellow arrows to which you pilgrims’ office. It is very carefully become quite attached, plus the modern checked before you receive your Although walking alone, there is signposting. Apps are now available Compostela certificate. Finally, you then companionship on the Caminos as many showing each route and detailing the attend the Pilgrims’ Mass at mid-day in others are also walking. Accommodation facilities available in the villages the cathedral. is readily available in either ‘alberques’, along the way. that is dormitory accommodation with This was my last Camino walk (maybe). bunk-type beds costing 8-10 euros, or Traditions are still enforced and you must The backpack seemed to be becoming small hotels where a single room costs carry with you a ‘credencial’, a pilgrim’s heavier and the hills steeper, so I will usually between 15 and 25 euros. Meals passport that has to be stamped every day need to think of an alternative for my are generally available in local bars at wherever you stay, and on your backpack 80th challenge in 2021. which the ‘menu del dia’ is 7 to 10 euros a scallop, the sign that you are a pilgrim. for three courses and a bottle of On reaching Santiago De Compostela, Kennedy Howden (1952 – 1959) local wine. Man recovers some sight after getting ‘bionic eye’ from London surgeons

blind man has regained some of outlines and movement around him, it specialist eye hospitals across Europe. Four his sight after being fitted with a will help with his mobility and will be a patients have been implanted with the A “bionic eye” by London surgeons. huge step forward for him.We switched device so far. on the device last week. He is the first in the UK to benefit from a Patients wear a “sunglasses”-style headset trial of a pioneering system at Moorfields “From this week on, he will undergo fitted with a camera, which sends images Eye Hospital. The patient, 73, has retinitis a specialist programme of [sight] to a smartphone-size computer worn pigmentosa, the most common cause re-education. His expectations have been on their hip. This sends signals to an of inherited blindness — affecting 1.5 entirely realistic with the trial. I think he electronic chip that has been surgically million people worldwide. He has been is tempering his emotions, but he is very inserted in the patient’s damaged retina, blind for more than 20 years. pleased and I think he is very happy to see enabling images to be sent to the brain something.” via the optic nerve. FP Mahi Muqit (class of 1992), now a consultant ophthalmologist and Two further patients are due to undergo Patients with retinitis pigmentosa vitreoretinal surgeon at Moorfields, who the procedure at Moorfields. Patients will have suffered degeneration of inserted the Iris II system last month, with retinitis pigmentosa often have their the photoreceptors in the retina, the said the man could now see a difference eyesight deteriorate in their teenage years light-sensitive lining in the back of the between light and dark and would learn and typically suffer total loss of vision in eye. The chip, which has 150 electrodes, is to interpret light signals. their forties. able to fix this broken link so signals can be sent to the brain. He said: “He was unable to see anything The Iris II system, made by French firm at all. If we can get him appreciating Pixium, is being trialled in a handful of The aim is to enable patients to lead more active lives. Some have been able Mahi Muqit (1992) Consultant Vitreoretinal Surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital to identify the outline of a staircase, a door lock or items of fruit. There is also the hope that the technology could help patients who suffer age-related macular degeneration, the most common cause of vision loss in the UK. It causes the loss of central vision. Khalid Ishaque, chief executive of Pixium, said: “The first implant in UK at the prestigious Moorfields Eye Hospital is part of the company’s strategy to continue to expand its presence across centres of excellence in Europe. “Pixium Vision is dedicated to conceive, develop and bring meaningful bionic vision innovations to surgeons.” Original article: Evening Standard 7 November 2016

Etcetera 17 Westbourne Section

60th Celebration for the Class of 1974 This photograph was taken as 26 of us celebrated together in our 60th birthday year. We met at Mar Hall on Sunday 8 May 2016 for prosecco and canapés. The afternoon flew by as we reminisced about school days and laughed and chatted over photographs taken during Concordia Picnics to such destinations as Millport and Arran. From top left… (married name) - Doreen Day (Jareckyj), Anne Mackenzie (Kennedy), Susan Fyfe (Roy), Jo’ Murdoch (Mill), Joan Paton, Alison Stewart (Christie), Fiona McDonald (Grossart), Sharon Allan (MacLeod), Gilli Davie (Barclay), Susan Mylne (Ritchie), Tricia Sutherland (Lemond), Mary Cooke (Bell), Kay Whittle (Rennie), Norma Houston (Davie), Sheila Warnock (Collins), Gillian Smith (Shankland), Elspeth Bloom (Mullholland), Jane Naismith (Shemilt), Val Neish (Strang), Jane Garvie (Primrose), Lesley Mill (Scott), Janis Rogan (Richmond), Tara Stewart, Carole Day (Hill), Fiona Greig (Flynn), Morna Harper (Forrester).

Flowers, neat desks and live goldfish show off class of distinction

They might have taken off their coats in the classroom, one would have thought. But then these little girls are taking part in an art lesson, and the coats were donned to avoid any paint splashing on to their uniforms. This is Westbourne School in April 1953 - pristine jotters, non-chewed pencils, and a live goldfish in the bowl at the back. There are even fresh flowers in the vases and how many teachers today wish that their pupils stare at them adoringly as the wee one on the left is doing? Originally published in The Herald (July 2016)

18 Etcetera Career updates

Over the years I stood on a few occasions Alison Harris at local council elections. It was only at I was elected to the Scottish Parliament the independence referendum that my as one of three Scottish Conservative interest in politics re-ignited. I went to MSPs for Central Scotland on Thursday the Scottish Conservative Conference May 5th. I was the 3rd on the regional which was held in Stirling that year and list and, to be honest, being in 3rd place by the time that I left the conference I was not really expecting to be elected. I had somehow signed myself up as a Imagine my surprise on Friday morning potential candidate! to discover that in fact I had been I stood for the Westminster elections in elected and in a short 72hrs I would join the knowledge that it was highly unlikely my fellow colleagues on the Monday that I would be elected; however, I was morning to start the process of becoming delighted with my result as I almost an MSP. doubled the Conservative vote for Falkirk I often ask myself where did this journey West. begin? I think that my interest in politics This year was The Scottish Parliament started when I was at Westbourne. I took election and here I am an MSP. A new a crash higher in economics in S6. There economic debates in the class were quite and interesting journey has begun for were only three of us in Mrs Green’s interesting to say the least! me. Once again it is an exciting time in economics class that year and I am sure From school I went to study economics politics. Looking back with very fond that was where my interest started. and accountancy at Strathclyde memories of my school days, I feel that It was an exciting time in politics at University and then on to completing my this journey began in that classroom back the beginning of the 1980’s and the CA Qualification and I have worked as a at Westbourne all those years ago… CA ever since. Anupama (Gopinathan) Thompson I left Westbourne in the summer of 1990 and made the long journey south to the University of Essex where I read law, moving to London in 1993 where I was called to the Bar the following year. I then spent many happy years doing battle in the criminal courts around London. A reminder that the next I met my husband, a fellow Glaswegian Westbourne Grand Reunion although sadly a High School boy, and we will take place on have been blessed with three gorgeous Saturday 20 May 2017 at 7pm, children (all announced in Etcetera at the time!). Having taken six years at the Glasgow City Hotel, out to have the children I tentatively Cambridge Street, Glasgow went back into the workplace in 2008 (formerly the Thistle Hotel and this time as an employed barrister for soon to be rebranded as a Hilton the Nursing and Midwifery Council, presenting disciplinary cases before the Doubletree). NMC’s practice committees as well as hearing criminal cases in the Crown We’ve had a really good response the High Court. I’ve been there now Court and presiding over jury trials. for eight years and have worked my way The picture attached was taken at my from former Westbourne pupils up to the position of Assistant Director, swearing-in ceremony and shows Mr who’d like to attend so if you Legal Services which means that I am Justice Haddon-Cave in full regalia with haven’t booked your place, please the NMC’s most senior lawyer and me, my husband Lyall and my parents. contact responsible for the rather large legal I’m sure many readers of Etcetera will department as well as leading on the Liz in the Academy’s remember my parents, always present organisation’s most high profile cases. External Relations Department at our numerous public speaking In January of this year I realised a competitions, cheering the purple team 0141 342 5494 life’s ambition in being appointed as a on. I can safely say it all started with or [email protected] Recorder of the Crown Court which the Literary and Debating Society on a means that I sit for six weeks of the year Monday lunchtime!

Etcetera 19 Switzerland and France and was in charge Margaret Cumming Obituaries of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. (Westbourne staff) Later in Devon, she continued with her Message from Betty Henderson - Miss lifelong love of learning by taking degrees Margaret L.H. Cumming died peacefully in Law and French. She loved France, on Christmas Day. She spent most of her Art History and Geology and could teaching career at Westbourne School regularly be found in museums, galleries and at all times involved herself fully in and exhibitions. She was for many years all aspects of school life and work. She an office bearer of NADFAS (National served the school faithfully as teacher of Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Mathematics, in charge of Careers, and Societies). for many years in charge of Scripture Union. Ann died after a short illness on 21st June, 2016. Those of us who knew her as a friend and colleague valued her Marilyn (nee Menzies Anderson) greatly for her kindness, patience and Davidson (Westbourne, 1957) trustworthiness as well as her keen Marilyn beloved wife of the late John intellect. Davidson, mother of Catriona and Janet and sister of Heather died peacefully at To Ann’s son Simon, daughter Clare home on 5 November 2016. and their children, we send our heartfelt sympathy. Mrs Marjorie Cook (née Buchanan; 1926-1936) Elsie Murray Marjorie - one of our most senior former pupils - died on 19 August 2016, aged 94. She completed her education at boarding Melanie Road school and went on to train as a Dietician Although Melanie died 32 years ago Within 30 minutes of his successful at the Glasgow School of Domestic in 1984 at the tender age of 17, she arrest Melanie’s mother Jean, Melanie’s Science (Dough School). Later she was still able to help catch her own sister Karen and brother Adrian were became a lecturer in the Department. killer with all the evidence that had all informed. 32 years it had taken, but Marjorie had a passion for golf and been left at the crime scene. Because Melanie had finally been able to help was a stalwart member of Balmore she tried bravely to fight off her capture her own killer. At his trial in Golf Club. She was also a member of killer and gave resistance during that May 2016 at Bristol Crown Court - Buchanan Golf Club and a county night she helped to shed the killer’s and due to the overwhelming DNA player. At Balmore she was Lady Captain blood. A trail of his blood enabled evidence against him - he had no in 1968/69 and was Lady Champion samples to be taken which were choice but to admit Melanie’s murder. seven times between 1969 and 1990; she stored expertly by the Police Officers The other charges of kidnap, rape and was also Lady Champion at Buchanan in charge at the time. DNA profiling mutilation still stand. He has now been in 1991. Marjorie enjoyed travelling was relatively unknown in 1984 and sentenced just for the murder and will worldwide, too, and she once took a trip was certainly in its infancy; however, be incarcerated for a minimum term of on Concorde. these well-preserved samples 22 years. were used for DNA profiling and Melanie has always played a large part Her daughters Sheila and Fiona received subsequently used towards his final in our lives and even though she passed their education at Westbourne School. It capture. away all those years ago she will still be was very much a Westbourne/Academy our beautiful little sister and daughter. family, as her husband, Harold (1939), An arrest of the killer’s own daughter The memories we have of her being a and brother, William (1938), were in Bath 2015 for an unrelated crime bright, happy, sociable young girl who Academicals. resulted in a routine mouth swab and had no problems making friends will DNA profile upload to the national Mrs Ann Ingham always stay with us. She had some great database, where a familial profile (Westbourne staff) friends from Westbourne School and proved a match with the killer’s. Ann was in charge of the Geography we have had pleasure in keeping in Within an hour of the match being Department at Westbourne School touch with many of you. from 1975 to 1983, when she moved confirmed the killer’s house in Bristol to Devon as Head of Geography at was surrounded by Police from If anyone wishes to contact us we can Edgehill College, Bideford and later to St Avon and Somerset’s Brunel Major be contacted at Adrian’s email aroad@ Margaret’s School, Exeter. Crime Investigation Team headed btconnect.com Thanks to everyone up by T/DCI Julie Mackay. He was who has supported us over the years She was a dedicated and conscientious found at home with his second wife and we look forward to hearing from teacher who always demanded the highest where he was arrested for Melanie’s you. standards of her pupils. She inspired them kidnapping, rape, murder and with her keen interest in travelling and mutilation. her love of reading. She led school trips to

20 Etcetera Former Pupil David Robertson: Glasgow’s golfing Olympian

Forgotten Olympian: David Robertson, a Glasgow solicitor, played golf in the Olympics of 1900 (Picture: JWB Archives)

ccording to the fusty, sticks but he also represented dusty, well-thumbed Cambridge at rugby in a no A archives, the score draw with Oxford in Olympics of 1900 sounded 1892 and played for Scotland absolutely brilliant. Forget in a 9-0 defeat to Wales in all this tight-fitting lycra, the 1893. By 1900, Robertson, shameless hawking of the five who played most of his golf rings for commercial gain, at Northwood just outside David Coleman shrieking London, was something of a about Juantorena opening his trail-blazer for the game on legs and showing his class and the Olympic stage but that widespread doping, the Games particular trail wouldn’t blaze of the II Olympiad in Paris for long. Golf remained at the seemed to be a kind of jovial, 1904 Games in St Louis but come all ye, off the cuff caper it didn’t figure at London in that had all the old school 1908 and will finally reappear charm and quirkiness of It’s A again in 2016. Knockout. “They tried to put it into the Look up there, it’s a neatly 1908 Games in London but coiffured couple inching there was some kind of dispute ahead in the hot air balloon over eligibility between the contest. What’s that over there? Scottish and English players,” Why, it’s a keenly fought tussle added Bancroft. “There are no for the Basque Pelota title real records of what happened of course. And what’s going on down York. The line-up also included Albert but it was probably fairly petty. By the yonder? It appears to be a tense duel in Bond Lambert, who would later become time they got their heads together, it the pigeon shooting … with live pigeons. one of the principal financial backers was too late as the Games were already of Charles Lindbergh’s pioneering solo underway. If golf had been included in Amid all of this ballooning, Basque-ing transatlantic flight on The Spirit of St and, er, blitzed beaks, the Royal & 1908 I think it would have been included Louis. “I thought it was a story that at every Games thereafter. The 1908 Ancient game of golf made its first needed to be told,” said James Bancroft, appearance in the Games. When golf, Games was the one that essentially saved a Manchester-based historian and author the Olympics. The Games of 1900 and led by global superstars like Rory who has documented the tale in a McIlroy and Jordan Spieth, returns to the 1904 were connected with the Paris publication called The First Olympic Golf World Fair and the St Louis World Fair Olympics in 2016, after an absence of 112 Match. “Robertson, like Rutherford, is years, it will be safe to say that the fanfare respectively and they were getting pushed the forgotten Olympian, perhaps not to into the margins. London was a true and fever will be a bit more boisterous real Olympic enthusiasts and historians than the atmosphere that surrounded the Olympic Games. It was purely sport with like myself but in the wider world of nothing else happening.” pursuit’s debut back in 1900. With the sport. The 1900 Games was a bit of a Olympics tagged onto the Paris World mishmash, probably even a bit of a farce In 1900, there would be no medals for Fair of that year, 22 male and female to be honest. What appeared to have Robertson and company. They weren’t competitors essentially pitched up, stuck happened was that most of the Brits were really golfing for gold. Instead, they were their names down and battered away over in Paris on business during the trade fair. presented with silver cups. “Robertson 36-holes (the women’s contest was nine They heard that there was to be a golf went back into golfing obscurity after holes) at the Compiegne club just north event in connection with it and they just that but the fact that he and Rutherford of the French capital. put their names down. It was as simple as were among the first Olympic golfers Among that intrepid number was David that.” should stand as a great claim to fame,” said Bancroft. Robertson, a solicitor from Shawlands Born in 1869, Robertson, who attended on Glasgow’s southside, who would The Glasgow Academy and Glasgow Robertson died in 1937 at the age of 68 eventually finish third behind his fellow University, as well as Christ’s College in Idstone, Oxfordshire. Scot, Walter Rutherford of Jedburgh, and at Cambridge, was a dab hand with the the winner, Charles Sands from New By Nick Rodger, The Herald

Etcetera 21 Professor

t has been a remarkable year of Ronald Drever Prof Kip Thorne said that Ronald’s honours and awards for Prof Ronald ‘creative genius’ was crucial to the IW P Drever (Glasgow Academy (1950) – project. Ronald’s story from a childhood 1937-1950). Ronald has won a number inventing in the garage of the family of leading international Science awards causing more home in Bishopton (and being in recognition of his work on the ‘LIGO’ encouraged by Stan Sowrey at The project at Caltech (California Institute of than a ripple in Academy) to now being tipped for a Technology) alongside Prof Kip Thorne Nobel-prize nomination is a fascinating (also of Caltech) and Prof Rainer Weiss Physics one. His brother, Dr Ian Drever (1952), of MIT. Their work, along with the entire takes up the story: Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave “This is a very exciting discovery Our father was a GP in Bishopton. Observatory (LIGO) team, led to the for two reasons. Firstly, it confirms Ronald was born at the family home and first detection of gravitational waves in yet again that Einstein’s theory of practice - Southcroft - in 1931. He was September 2015. This validated a key General Relativity, published 101 always very particular and was described prediction of Einstein’s general theory years ago, is a supremely precise by our mother as a ‘difficult child’ who of relativity and opens new horizons in description of space and time, was obsessed by order and detail. astronomy and physics. gravity and the evolution of the Southcroft was an environment of chaotic The ‘waves’ discovery has caused a Universe. Secondly, and even more business, with constant comings and significant ripple effect in the world of excitingly, this opens up an entirely goings at all times of day and night, as science; a number of accolades have since new way of observing the Universe. people came to the surgery for treatment been won by Ronald and his colleagues, We can now observe collisions or prescriptions. I would help out in including a Special Breakthrough Prize between black holes, probing gravity the house and surgery, running errands, in Fundamental Physics, which was won in ever more exotic and extreme dealing with patients, and delivering by Stephen Hawking in 2013. Detecting situations, and look back in time letters/prescriptions. But Ronald always the waves has been hailed as “the biggest far closer to the big bang than ever kept himself to himself. He was happy scientific breakthrough” of the century; before. Gravitational wave astronomy being creative - he would spend his many argue it is even more significant opens up an entirely new window on time making things, studying, winding than the Higgs Boson and marks the nature.” wire and making countless tiny electric “birth of gravitational astronomy”. Prof Brian Cox, Royal Society Professor for Public Engagement in Science motors. The standing comment in the Ronald and Professor Moljk house was “Where is Ronald?” to which the response would be “Winding wire”. Ronald even used his ‘wee brother Ian’ in his experiments, giving him electric shocks on his tongue and fingers in the interests of science. Ian never complained as they were very close and continue to be so. In the garage of the family home Ronald collected his trophies of surplus war radios, cathode ray tubes from bombers and other electrical gadgetry that he bought from Clydesdales in central Glasgow. Ian goes on: “Ronald brought these home on the bus and along with chunks of Meccano and balsa wood, he would wire and create his inventions. There were larger items too such as generators, a host of electrical motors and magnets, and screws, nuts, angle brackets and model aeroplane parts. Patients donated bits of metal and wood to Ronald, which he tooled away at with hacksaws to make electric motor armatures. Nothing was discarded in case one day it might be useful. He had a particular fascination with mirrors and the way that light interacted with them,

22 Etcetera and would spend hours aligning them to increase path lengths. He had a favourite game called “Pepper’s Ghost” which he used as a party trick making things disappear and reappear through the use of mirrored glass.” Ronald and Ian’s father was not a scientist or an engineer, but help was at hand in the form of ‘Uncle Rec’ (John Richan Drever). He was a highly skilled precision engineer, who moved into the family home shortly after the war, having worked on the Lancaster Bombers at AVRO and helped in the development of the famous bouncing bombs of Dambuster fame. ‘Uncle Rec’ showed Ronald many techniques in design construction and enthused about his inventiveness. He taught Ronald how to repair things and how to take just about anything apart to see how it worked. Ronald first attended Glasgow Academy in 1937. He completed Prep 1 and Prep Ian and Ronald Drever continues to be visited regularly by Ian, 2 before the war intervened and three who lives nearby. years of school were spent at Erskine to those around him or his own needs. Ronald suffers from dementia and Public School (the local primary school Whilst at Harvard in 1960-61 he his varying levels of lucidity and in Bishopton). developed interferometers. He proceeded to become Titular Professor from understanding mean he is not able to fully Ronald returned to Trans in 1942 and 1979-84 at Glasgow University before celebrate the momentous discovery and completed his Senior Schooling at moving to become Professor of Physics attend the various award ceremonies with The Academy. While at Colebrooke at the California Institute of Technology his colleagues. However, he did recognise Street, Ronald greatly appreciated the from 1984. There, he continued the them in television coverage of the various inspirational teaching of Mr Sowrey research into gravity that he had started announcements. Ronald was also able to (Head of Physics 1930-51), who many years earlier. At Caltech his recall the “evacuated tubes” that he had recognised Ronald’s talent and nurtured work focussed on the measurement of utilised in the development of LIGO. it. Ian notes: “In class they made gravity waves using interferometers and, Ian and other members of the family rudimentary television sets. Ronald later alongside colleagues, they founded and have attended several ceremonies in replicated and enhanced this with surplus developed what became known as LIGO the USA to collect the awards on war items and pieces of junk in the garage – the Laser Interferometer Gravity-wave Ronald’s behalf. In addition to Ronald of the family home in Bishopton. We Observatory. individually winning the Einstein Prize actually watched the Queen’s coronation in 2007 (from the American Physical on Ronald’s small screen invention!” On retirement Ronald gave worldwide Society), he and his colleagues have On leaving The Academy, Ronald lectures on the subject of gravity as a won The Special Breakthrough Prize in embraced his studies at Glasgow Caltech Emeritus Professor. He was a Fundamental Physics (2016), The Gruber University and the opportunities it gave consultant and visiting scientist at the Prize in Cosmology (2016), The Shaw him. He obtained his B.Sc. with honours, Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Prize (2016) and The Kavli Prize in before gaining his Ph.D. in 1958. He Harwell, and a Vice-President of Astrophysics (2016). It has been widely greatly appreciated the knowledge and the Royal Astronomical Society. He suggested that the Nobel Physics Prize support of many professors and staff; is a Fellow of the Royal Society of committee will also recognise the work including visiting Professor Anton Moljk, Edinburgh, and a Fellow of the American of LIGO. from Ljubljana, Yugoslavia, (pictured) who Physical Society. Despite living in the Glasgow Academical Sir William Ramsay became a family friend and supported USA for many years, Ronald declined to won the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in Ronald through his early research. become an American citizen and declared 1904 for the discovery of ‘inert gaseous Ronald was exempted from National Glasgow to be the ‘best place in the world elements in air’. Sir William’s portrait Service as a science student, although to live’. features in both the Alumni Gallery he volunteered in the University TA as a Soon after returning to the UK in 2009, and in the Chemistry department wireless operator. Ronald moved into sheltered housing of the Saunders Centre. Ronald’s Ronald’s life was science; day, night, near Ian’s home just outside Edinburgh. ground-breaking work means we have weekends and holidays were a nuisance. Several years later, as his health reason to hope that The Academy may be He worked and experimented as long deteriorated and he required more care, able to honour two Nobel Prize-winning as he felt he needed to with disregard he moved into a nursing home, where he Alumni before long...

Etcetera 23 Meetings, get-togethers and reunions

Circa ‘63 Reunion The Glasgow Academy Circa 1963 Group has met annually since 1963 for dinner or lunch. The contact list for the Group is near 100 strong and up to 60 have attended landmark events, such as the recent 50th Gold Anniversary. An informal lunch was held on Friday 7 October 2016 in the private dining facility at Oran Mor, Byres Road and 16 former classmates attended.

The Group lunch is always Group photo left to right: held on the first Friday in Harry Jackson, Tony Kozlowski, David Deas, Donald Laird, Douglas Mack, Colin Winter, October, the next one to be James Smith, Peter Jensen, Ronnie Greig, Clive Davis, Graeme Paton, George Jeffrey, on 6 October 2017. John Byers, Norman Lees, Neil McDougall

Stuart Patrick Reunion Lower Vth 1965/66 It took almost 50 years but at last our class got together again. Could it really have been that long? The significance of the half century had not entered my thinking when I started organising a reunion for those of us who been in Lower Vth in 1965/6. All I knew was that in the intervening years Those who attended were: we had not met as a group and Left to right: Peter Battison, Drew Fulton, Hugh McDiarmid, Colin Ainsworth, Ron Cole, Tony Welsh, Graham Philips, that that needed to be rectified. Graeme Mitchell, Campbell Denholm, Gordon Weetch (hidden), Vivian Clement, Donald Reid, Ian Swan (hidden), Billy Hamilton, David Stirling, Bertie Barclay, Steven Strang, Gerald Haase, Campbell Ogilvie, William Levack, Jimmy Out of the 84 who had been Cochrane, John Hunter, Donald Robertson, Bean Campbell, Iggy MacFarlane, Richard Aston, Crawford McLean. in that class 27 of us, plus a Not in photo: Eddie MacKechnie master from that year, Colin Ainsworth, turned up in July. Thanks are due to the External But of equal interest were the amongst our ranks a few who The event was much enjoyed Relations office of the school rifle range and the gymnasium had pursued successful careers with conversation carrying for doing so much of the where nothing seemed to have in commerce as well as three on pretty much where it had organising and for providing changed. The wall bars, the doctors, one of whom, Gerald left off 50 years previously. name badges for all of us – sad beams and the vaulting horse Haase, is also an international For those interested there is a to say they were needed. all looked as though they were bridge player. Campbell Facebook site which contains the same ones we used 50 Ogilvy had pursed a career a few more pictures (Glasgow We had a tour of the school years ago. in football management, Academy form Vb 1965/6). followed by an excellent and including being president There was a suggestion that most enjoyable lunch at New of the SFA, and Tony Welsh, we should do it again perhaps Anniesland. Amongst our number there who had qualified as a vet, in a couple of years. Watch The tour provided the were some interesting careers had given up practice but this space. opportunity to see all the new to note. Far too many of us was still working part-time facilities that had been added, were accountants or lawyers at the British Horse Racing David Stirling 1956-68 particularly in the last 20 years. but thankfully we could count Authority.

24 Etcetera presents A Taste of Scotland Friday 24 March 2017 IVth Form 1966-67 Class Reunion Dinner 7.00pm for 7.30pm The Pavilion at The Glasgow Academical Club, Anniesland, The 50th Anniversary Event was held at Neilson, Bill Peacock, Willie Primrose, Glasgow Dougie Robinson, Kenneth Russell, John the School on Friday 7 October 2016. As Scott, David Stirrat and Philip Waine. always, it was a very light-hearted evening Have you ever noticed certain with Hugh Barrow as our Guest Speaker It was great to see so many old faces whiskies are sweeter than others? who gave a fine speech on the history of and a convivial time was had. The tour Some whiskies are spicier and some the Academical Club. Atholl Brechin did round the Prep School and Saunders are smoky? On Friday 24 March a superb job as Master of Ceremonies. Centre before the main event was much 2017, The Rare Malt Whisky A great night was had with everyone appreciated too. Company will present an evening renewing acquaintances from long ago. of the finest malt whisky paired Many thanks to the Speakers, Richard with luxury Scottish chocolate and The following were present: Brian Lyth and his catering staff, the Janitors, cheese. Barclay, Mike Belch, John Blair, Atholl and in particular Liz McGowan and Brechin, Martin Brook (who had External Relations. Also thanks to all of Over the course of the evening, we travelled from California), Jim Cooper, you who attended. will taste 6 single malt whiskies, Philip Cowie, Alastair Crabb, Lex Dowie, with either a savoury and salty If you think you were in the above year Neil Duncan, Peter Edmond, Adrian Scottish cheese from artisan at the Academy and perhaps have moved Flatman, Hugh Fulton, Paul Gee, Tim cheesemonger George Mewes or house or simply lost touch, please inform Haggis, Jimmy Howie, Alan Lundie, a sweet and rich chocolate from Kenneth Russell, The Hilton, 38 Chester Murray Magowan, Kenneth McCracken, the award-winning Highland Road, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1EU or Ralston McKay, George McLaren, Colin Chocolatier. Each whisky will be send him an email to kennethrussell@ Miller, Jimmy Miller, Wallace Mitchell, expertly matched to enhance its btinternet.com. Martin Muir, Douglas Mundie, Derek subtle and delicate notes. Even if you haven’t ever tried single We were delighted to welcome some members of the Class of 1996 for a mini reunion on 3 June 2016. They enjoyed meeting each other and a few of their former teachers. malt or have previously decided it’s not for you, this evening is designed to highlight different flavours in whisky, so come along and let us convert you Tickets are £29 which includes 6 x 25ml drams of malt whisky and luxury chocolate or cheese. Bookings can be made via the External Relations Department either by telephone on 0141 342 5494 or by sending a cheque payable to ‘The Glasgow Academy’ to External Relations, Colebrooke Street, Glasgow, G12 8HE. We look forward to your company for a fantastic night of flavour discovery!

Etcetera 25 Announcements Engagements Fraser McGowan (2006) Fraser got engaged on 7 July 2016 to Hannah Hardman from Preston. Marriages Scott Bannerman (2005) Scott married Lisa Keen at Myres Castle, Auchtermuchty, on 9 July 2016. Kyle Kearns (2005), Geoff Howison (2006) and Douglas Abram (left The annual Gasbags lunch took place on Friday 28 October. 2000) were groomsmen. Adam Howie (2004) Upcoming Events & I am delighted to announce that I married Lauren Moodie on 4 June 2016 at the Dunglass Estate in Reunions East Lothian. The Academy was well represented Thursday 23 February 2017 with three generations in attendance. We had a Dallachy Lecture, Cargill Hall, terrific day in the Scottish sun finished by the music 7pm accompaniment of the Jersey Boys and Lauren and I are enjoying our new life together. Given by Professor Michael Barrett Scott Bannerman from University of Glasgow on the topic of ‘Neglected tropical diseases’. Friday 3 March 2017 Iain Muir Spring Lunch, Accies Pavilion at Anniesland Friday 10 March 2017 London Section Dinner, Caledonian Club, Drinks from 6:30pm, dinner at 7:30pm Guest speaker Ricky Munday Wednesday 22 March 2017 Business Breakfast, The Corinthian Club, 7:30am - 9am Why business leaders need to embrace social media with Allan Adam Howie Barr, The BIG Partnership Friday 24 March 2017 Whisky Pairing Evening, Accies Adam and Lauren with Pavilion at Anniesland, 7pm Accies Saturday 20 May 2017 Westbourne Grand Reunion, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Glasgow Central, 7pm Friday 16 June 2017 Class of 1997 Reunion, 2pm, Glasgow Academy For information on any of the above, please email [email protected]. uk or telephone +44 (0)141 342 5494

26 Etcetera Alasdair Petrie (2001) Alasdair married Heather (Trotman) on Saturday 2 July 2016 in Kingston Bagpuize, Oxfordshire. They now live in Wandsworth, London.

Jonathan Scott (1998) Jonathan married Joni (Allan) on 6 November 2015 in St John’s Church, followed by a reception at Brig o’ Doon House Hotel. Stuart Ward (1998) was Jonathan’s Best Man, with Joni’s sister, Laura, as her Bridesmaid.

Graham Tait (2005) Graham and Jennifer Boyle were married at St. Andrew’s Fraser Lundie Alasdair Petrie Church, Bearsden, on 2 Births September 2016 with the reception following at Michael Livingston (1998) Cameron House. Happy to announce the arrival of Elsa Livingston on 14 September 2016. Mother and daughter both doing well and Isla is excited to be a big sister! Fraser Lundie (1998) Delighted and proud to welcome Sara Isabella Lundie into our lives, born on 7 June, healthy and happy. My wife, Claire did an absolutely amazing job for the third time, as did the NHS midwives. I’d also like to very belatedly announce to Etcetera the birth of my second child, Flora (also pictured), back in 2013! John McMaster (1996) My wife Doreen and I are delighted to announce the arrival of Matilda Thea McMaster on 4 May 2016. A Jonathan Scott little sister for George and Ewan. Graham Tait John McMaster Family

Etcetera 27 Updates Claire Davies (2006) I recently obtained my PhD in Neuroscience from The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh. I am continuing my research as a post-doctoral research fellow at the University of Edinburgh. My lab works on Multiple Sclerosis and we are investigating repair mechanisms and regenerative factors released in MS that can be harnessed to promote repair of damaged myelin. Mark Duman (1986) Mark delivered the keynote address with Mike Greco CEO of Patient Opinion Robyn Kennedy Australia, an accompanying masterclass Mark Duman on person-centred care at the Pharmacy Guild of Australia in September last year. Visiting Sydney and Melbourne initially in 1986 to deliver presentations on shared clinical decision-making based on his work with The King’s Fund, Mark returned to Sydney, this time with his wife Tanya (but without their five children). Mark’s brief was to encourage pharmacists to move from their current supply-focused model of medicines provision to embrace a much more service-orientated approach, which includes helping patients with their medicines-taking, supporting the management of their long-term Shona McCallum condition(s) and promoting health and wellness. Mark hopes to return to the Power Yoga Company in London in Australia this year to work with a small March 2016 and now teaches on a regular group of pharmacists to help them basis. establish new person-centred services Anne Turnbull (Graham) and, more broadly, to deliver a suite of (Westbourne, 2003) accredited communication skills modules Anne Graham’s work was part of the via the Guild. Arteartesania Exhibition in Sóller, Calum McCallum (1989) Mallorca in September and was also 1 exhibiting at Elements at Lyon and After 3 /2 years in Bangladesh I recently moved to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. If Turnbull in Edinburgh. there is anyone from the Academy in the Graeme Turnbull (2003) East Africa Region please do get in touch Graeme Turnbull is now working for via [email protected] MPC, was VFX Supervisor at The Shona McCallum (2004) Moving Picture Company and was won silver place - Commercial Radio responsible for leading his team of 10 for Journalist of the Year (Ali Booker the recent Paralympics 2016 advert. He Memorial Award) - at the Arqiva moved in January from Electric Theatre Commercial Radio Awards 2016. Collective where he was lead 3D artist. Robyn Kennedy (2010) Stuart Turnbull (2006) Following a degree in Fashion Branding, Stuart Turnbull is working as a 3D Robyn managed the first Sweaty Betty Generalist at Atomic Fiction in Montreal, Store in Glasgow and has recently been moving there in August 2016 for a year. promoted to be their Roadshow Manager He was recently a Former 3D Modeller at in London, to where she will relocate MPC - London, United Kingdom and at later in the year. Robyn also successfully Framestore. completed her yoga teacher training at

28 Etcetera Llama drama as student stunt stops traffic in Glasgow Students promote Freshers Week by taking a life-sized llama round landmarks in Glasgow but their day took a turn for the worst. Two students, including former pupil Matthew Doran (2014), were out promoting Freshers student week in the city centre and created a scene Del boy and Rodney Trotter would be proud of. The inventive youngsters decided to promote the event by taking a life-sized llama round landmarks in Glasgow. But the pair didn’t think the idea through as they locked themselves out of their van and were forced to walk back to We were delighted to have Reverend David Primrose (1972) as guest university carrying the creature. preacher for the annual Commemoration Service at Glasgow Cathedral Shoppers in Royal Exchange Square were on Friday 14 October. The occasion was particularly special as David’s mother, Marjory, was able to join us on the day. left bemused as the students passed red faced. Originally published on glasgowlive.co.uk Photographer John McGowan Academicals in Great Britain Rifle Team Two Academicals, Lindsay Peden (1971), competitors and also shot very well in left, and Mike Barlow (1984), right, are the Canadian National Championships regular international competitors in Rifle in Ottawa finishing 7th, after having been Shooting. Lindsay is the coach for the overtaken at the last range by Lindsay Scottish High Performance Squad (from who, despite the pressures of captaincy, which the two for the Commonwealth managed to finish 2nd out of field of Games are selected) and was Captain around 180. Mike was selected for both of the Great Britain Rifle Team which the major international team matches in toured Canada and the USA in August in Canada, with Great Britain winning both August this year. matches, one with a record score. Full information of the overall tour can be For the past four years, both have travelled found on the team’s website at www.gbrt. to Phoenix, USA, in February to shoot in org.uk/canada2016 the Long Range meeting, which is shot mainly at 1000 yards. Mike finished 6th In 2015, Lindsay shot in the Great Britain this year out of a strong field of over 100 Veterans team at Camp Perry, Ohio and in the World Championships, before travelling to Canada for the Canadian Championships. The reason for going to Canada was primarily reconnaissance Mike Barlow for this year’s trip, but much to his surprise (and that of others) he won the Championship, thereby setting the bar fairly high for his team this year. Next year, he will be taking the squad to Phoenix again and will also take those who are selected for the Commonwealth Games to Australia for the pre-Games event in November 2017 in Brisbane. Lindsay Peden Any Academical wanting to shoot at Bisley should contact Lindsay Peden through the External Relations office.

Etcetera 29 Obituaries Celebrating the life of James Hamilton Smith - Jimmy the Pie ames Hamilton Smith, who died encouraged to retire, as there were several on 26 October following a brief brokers of his age in London refusing Jillness, was an example of loyalty, to retire because Jimmy Smith was still commitment and graciousness that working! touched many who had the privilege of The family house in Pollokshields was knowing him. There can have been very an open house to dinner guests from few people in Glasgow who have been business, social, club or association more popular, more respected, and indeed involvement. This epitomised his open more revered. Jimmy was such a modest heart to everyone he met. The friends of and self-effacing man, that he would have his three boys were also made welcome brushed aside such compliments. He was and the kitchen was a constant hub of a do-er, an action man, and got things visitors, with a spare place at the table, a done. Many people, clubs, organisations bottomless coffee pot on the Raeburn, and institutions have had cause to be and a tin of Hazel’s famous flapjacks on grateful for the continual support and the table. A spare room in the house was service of Jimmy Smith. always available to family and friends He will best be known throughout the visiting or studying in Glasgow. A recent Scottish rugby community as Secretary testimony from a Kintyre friend, who of the Rugby Section of the Glasgow stayed with the family whilst studying Academical Club for 34 years, a record in Glasgow, said that James’ kindness to which is unlikely to be broken. His him was without compare and that his enthusiasm for the game he loved was generosity remained with him and with undiminished throughout his life, and James Hamilton Smith his family to this day. visiting teams to the rugby fields of Jimmy gave unstinting service to New Anniesland were greeted with Immediately on leaving school, he Sherbrooke-St Gilbert’s Church where he warmth and courteousness that was his enrolled into the Fleet Air Arm as an was a much respected elder, and carried trademark. His post-match hospitality observer, quickly developing a talent for out many acts of private kindness which of ensuring that all the players received navigating. A war posting to Trinidad as he was able to accomplish “behind the the staple fare of a pie earned him the a navigating trainer using old Swordfish scenes”. These are matters which properly nickname of Jimmy the Pie, a title of biplanes or ‘Stringbags’ as they were do not come into the open, but Jimmy affection that remained with him for the affectionately called, gave him a fairly easy was indeed a tower of strength, support rest of his days. In addition to his work as life in the sun! Later, well before the days and advice for those who needed it. He Rugby Secretary, he was President of the of satnav, he was an invaluable navigator was the church ground convenor for Glasgow Academical Club, Chairman of on yacht races round the Isle of Man, the many years, and his constant pride in Cricket, Captain of Cricket, and in that Mull of Kintyre, or over to Norway. tending to the neat gravel and lawns made year they won the Rowan Charity cup, him a local landmark. and a Governor of The Glasgow Academy. After being demobbed, he started his He hardly missed a post war match of the career as a stockbroker. Initially with the He was an enthusiastic freemason for national team at Murrayfield. Win or lose, firm of Kidston Goff, a few years with most of his adult life and was Master of he loved meeting up with his old borders Alexander Sloan, and for most part, with his own lodge, the Lodge of Glasgow St rugby friends and the whole atmosphere Stirling Hendry. There was a Scottish John in 1961. In addition, he regularly of the occasion. Stock Exchange at that time, and he loved attended and assisted five other lodges the routine of the trading floor. He knew in the Glasgow area, and if any were in He was ‘Pollokshields born and bred’ all the clients, and most importantly they doubt as to the correct protocol, Jimmy as was his proud boast, and lived there all knew, and respected him. He was of was the man to ask. Co-existing with most of his days, apart from the first ten much assistance to those beginning a his masonic career was his love of the years of married life which were spent in career in the profession and many were Incorporation of Masons of Glasgow, Kilmacolm. He married a Dunblane lass, grateful for his guidance and wise council. which he supported unstintingly. For Hazel Young in 1950 and shortly after He was one of the last in Glasgow still more years than anyone could remember, started a family. They had three sons. to wear a bowler hat into the office, and he closed every meeting and function Although his early schooling was at on leaving the subway going into the of the Incorporation with ‘Rapping the Glasgow Academy, at 13 he attended office, he would always doff his hat to Shed’ in his own inimitable style. Jimmy Strathallan School in Perthshire. He the driver in gratitude. At 75, Jimmy was spoke annually at the Incorporation’s became an extremely good swimmer, a still routinely opening the office, when ‘Pear Eating’ about the history of very good ball player and was Captain a call was received from the London the evening, captivating his audience of Rugby and Captain of Cricket. Stock Exchange asking if he could be

30 Etcetera without a note. There too, Jimmy was the Pollokshields Angling Club. fountain of knowledge of their traditions Academical rugby Supporting and ensuring the continued and history. Recently they celebrated I first met Jimmy Smith when, shortly traditions and practices of all the at lunch 50 years since he was their after leaving school, I was invited to play many clubs, societies, incorporations, Deacon, at which, even in failing health, for the Academical 4th XV. I turned associations and masonic lodges of he responded to a toast in his honour, up at New Anniesland, full of youthful which he was an active member meant immaculately and with warmth and enthusiasm. I had recently played in the everything to him. humility. 1st XV at school and was looking forward Jimmy’s presence lit up any gathering. He He developed quite a skill in informal to continuing my career as a scrum half. laughed readily and others laughed with public speaking, mainly through his As three o’clock approached, in the him. He had a vast multitude of friends Trades House and masonic career. At any dressing room there were four players from many wholly different walks of life, gathering of family friends, colleagues who claimed to be scrum halves, six who in whose company he was at ease. He was or societies, you could always rely on claimed to be wingers, four to be hookers a true gentleman, and we are privileged him to produce a well-crafted toast or a and the fifteenth player who announced and honoured to have known him. reply, always brief, never pompous, with he would play anywhere. humour and panache, even at a moment’s He is survived by his wife, Hazel, The captain was frantic – where was notice. three sons, Graham, Iain and Gavin, everyone going to play? Just at that point Jimmy and Hazel were very keen Scottish seven grandchildren and three great James breezed into the dressing room country dancers in the sixties, having grandchildren. greeting everyone with the usual “Hello, joined a Saturday evening class at Glasgow old boy”. His eye fell on me – a new face Academy run by teachers and friends. In Grandparent – “Hello, old boy I’m James Hamilton the eighties, and for the following twenty Smith – good to see you - any problems years, they joined family and friends at Jimmy was a firm believer in the at all - just ask me”. New Kilpatrick Church Scottish Country importance of community and bringing This was a great relief to the beleaguered Dance Club in Bearsden hardly missing people together. This was especially true captain. He said, “Well, Jimmy, I’ve got one weekly class. when it came to family. He was incredibly a problem. You seemed to have selected supportive of the grandchildren and four scrum halves, six wingers, four His Strathallian days held fond memories worked hard to foster family bonds. for him, and he attended all their hookers and this guy who says he’ll play dinners, ultimately becoming President But there was also a competitive edge anywhere. What am I to do?” of the Strathallian Club. Many of his to that family spirit and he revelled in NOW there was no problem in the longstanding friends were of his vintage the achievements of what would come Academical Club that Jimmy had not at Strathallan. to be known as his Smith Clan. When faced before and solved. Quick as a his youngest grandchild Gary joined flash he said, “No problem old boy – no He loved the easy highland laconic Glasgow Academy, he was extremely problem at all. Alphabetical – first in the style, frequently travelling to Skye or pleased, more so than when the rest of alphabet full back and work down! the Western Isles with his masonic us had joined. When asked why this was friends. He never missed a dinner, an Jimmy was well-known for his exploits the case, he replied “There are now seven away weekend or a highland ball with as a referee. On one occasion when Smiths at the Academy, whilst the Howies The Glasgow Highland Club, enjoying refereeing his beloved 4th XV he was of Dunlop have only six”. dancing and listening to piping and all asked at a scrum by the visiting scrum the tales of life’s experiences that go with This healthy competition and supportive half, “Whose ball is it, referee?” Quick it. He loved meeting former and serving family ethos combined perfectly as a flash he replied, “Our ball”. This military officers, especially naval, and was on the Academy sports grounds, happened from time to time. He always devoted to the Royal Naval Volunteer where his unwavering support for explained – not a question of bias, old Reserve Club Scotland who met on the grandchildren’s endeavours was boy, - it was a question of fact – it was an the SS Carrick for so many years, and exceptional. Whether it was the school Academical ball and I am an Academical. latterly in the Western Club and at HMS swimming gala, sports day, rugby or However, he had more difficulty Dalriada. He was one of their longest hockey, Jimmy attended as many events in explaining away a statement he serving members and committee man, as he physically could. On a dreich made when his 4th-15 were playing and attended all their Trafalgar Dinners Saturday morning at Windyedge, or an Hutchesons’. I was playing. We were and reunions. Latterly he was a keen away game in Edinburgh, he would often 6-5 down with time running out. As I member of the Rotary Club of Govan be the lone supporter cheering on a team collected the ball to put it into a scrum and his contributions were always well that included one of his brood. he said in a voice that all could hear - received. Unfortunately as the years went by and “Hurry up and get the chaps to score old He was rarely a foreign traveller, with his eyesight faded, it was increasingly boy – I can’t keep the game going much family holidays at Easter spent with difficult for him to work out who was longer”. farmer friends at Portmahomack and in playing. This resulted in a few instances Despite these minor peccadillos, Jimmy the summer at Tangy Farm in Kintyre. when he had been watching a match, was loved and respected by the whole He loved the outdoors, and became a cheering on his grandchild, only to later Scottish Rugby Community. Any Rugby very capable trout fisherman at Tangy realise that his grandchild had been on function I have attended recently, I am Loch. He was also a keen supporter of the the neighbouring pitch. always asked “How’s Jimmy the Pie?”

Etcetera 31 Without a shadow of a doubt, Ronnie fire myself up, try to introduce that little Woods changed the course of my life – bit of drama or humour that engages and for that I shall always be grateful. an audience. May that blithe, vivacious spirit live on at the Academy to inspire Ronnie was a member of what I now and perhaps change the lives of future appreciate was a tremendously strong generations of pupils. teaching staff at the Academy in the 1970s and early 1980s. I learned from them all. Niall Ferguson (1981) But it was Ronnie’s infectious dynamism Mr Woods was indeed inspirational and and enthusiasm that persuaded me to I often think back and remember what a study History. He instilled a passion for great teacher he was. My two favourite the past that has never faded to this day. subjects at school were Modern Studies Why was he so good at what he did? and History and it was no coincidence First, there was the sheer energy. Lessons that Ronnie was my teacher for both. often began with a flourish – a sudden sweep of the revolving blackboard to Brian Caplan (1998) reveal an immaculate lesson plan. Mr Woods was my Form Master in 1A Before that, however, came the back in ’78 and did much to help me meticulous preparation. I rarely saw settle into The Academy. He was an him come into the classroom without a absolutely brilliant history teacher and I Rembering Ronnie very clear idea of what he was going to have no doubt that my interest in military Woods (1948 - 2016) achieve. He could be tough, so discipline and political history was sparked by him. was never an issue. Woe betide the boy Those corner classrooms were run by Ronnie Woods was a great teacher, who crossed Mr. Woods. But the default Lachie, Ronnie and ‘Chuck’ and I had taking the best practice of previous setting was geniality, encouragement. And much thrust into my teenage brain that generations and adapting his he encouraged us to study systematically. has stuck fast. teaching to encompass modern He taught me how to read carefully, to RIP, Mr Woods – thanks for your technology and recent changes in take useful, well organised notes, to think, mentorship, patience and skilful teaching. assessment and examination. and to learn. “The question is sacrosanct!” He set great store by preparation, Those words have been faithfully Iain Breckenridge (1984) classroom discipline and enthusiasm repeated by me to thousands of students for his subject. Many pupils who at Cambridge, Oxford, and Harvard. He was a great teacher who really made us this think for ourselves. He was able passed through the Academy in Ronnie was a teacher for all ages. He to get under the skin of even the most Ronnie’s time chose History as could clown for the kids in Transitus. troublesome folk in my class and really one of their Highers and his A level He could fire up a flagging 4th XV of capture our imaginations. We did a rolling classes had much in common with 14-year-olds. But for the upper sixth – news project of the Iraq war in 1990 and university tutorials. those of us who dreamed of Oxford and it was really exciting for a twelve-year-old Cambridge – he was professorial. I shall Ronnie and his wife Kit, who sadly first year. I still have it! I basically put never forget the after-hours meetings passed away a couple of years earlier, his classes in Modern Studies down to of the history discussion group, and the had a routine that made many of us the reason I passed with a Higher A and papers he encouraged us to write. It was feel limp: up at 5am, in school well am working in media in London now. Ronnie who sent me to the Mitchell before 8am and in bed by 9pm. It He made it fun. He also had this innate Library when it was obvious that the was those earlier hours, fresh from ability to get a whole school of 700 boys school’s own resources on the Thirty Years a good night’s sleep, devoted to to sit in absolute silence at the end of War were less than I required. That was an exacting preparation that made him every assembly, which was really quite unforgettable epiphany. That was the day one of the best to have taught at The something I thought at the time! Academy. my life changed its course. Douglas Keighley (1996) He had little time for Common I never really understood why Ronnie didn’t go all the way to the top. When Room politics preferring on many Ronnie Woods was a true Academy I left the school to go to Oxford, I was occasions to spend the mid-morning character, a Christian gentleman, and an confident he would be Rector one day. I and lunchtime breaks in his room inspirational teacher of history. It is to certainly would not have predicted that fielding questions and comments him that I owe my lifelong interest in he would retire early from teaching. It just from staff and pupils alike. history, as well as the solid grounding in goes to show that there is only so much a British history that helped me gain an There are many Academicals who sixth former can know of school politics. owe their after school progress to ‘A’ at Higher. He will certainly be greatly the inspiration of the dedicated Nevertheless, he will always be missed. teaching of Ronnie Woods. remembered by me as a model pedagogue. Every time I walk into a Paolo Capanni (1986) Colin Turner (Rector 1983-94) lecture hall or a seminar room, I try Very sad to receive your email this to channel my inner Ronnie – try to afternoon. Mr Woods was an inspirational

32 Etcetera teacher and I have many happy memories communication. He had developed of my History and Modern Studies different personas that he would employ Major Robert W Allison lessons with him. in teaching different age groups - all to (1959) great effect. He was also a friend to his Throughout his years at Glasgow Ian McAslan (1992) pupils, who never lost sight of his pastoral Academy, Robert was a very enthusiastic role. It was wonderful to have seen him at I was in the same class and played rugby member of the Army Cadet Force, so it a reunion a few years ago and his passing with his son Geoff. Like many former was no surprise when he decided that is a huge loss to the Academy community. pupils I was taught by Ronnie and always he wanted to become an Army Officer. regarded him as one of the best teachers I Alasdair Buchanan (1984) Robert joined The Royal Military had during my time at the school. Academy, Sandhurst in 1959 and passed He was indeed an inspirational teacher. out as a second lieutenant in 1961. His Stuart Wilson (1992) I was fortunate enough to be taught first posting was to Cyprus to join 42 both History and Modern Studies by Mr Medium Regiment, and whilst in Cyprus Mr Woods was an inspirational teacher Woods during my time at the Academy, he learned to canoe, climb mountains to me and my class mates throughout taking both to Higher level. The in Turkey as well as playing rugby for my time at the Academy. He brought interest in current affairs and politics in the regiment. He was also a keen golfer such energy, vitality and dare I say it, particular engendered by Mr Woods led and was very proud when he managed entertainment - a pizazz - to tough me to a legal career which has included to get his handicap down to 6! On parts of History such as the French Parliamentary and infrastructure work leaving Cyprus he was selected to go Revolution… a truly exceptional man. and also to my involvement with the to 29 Commando Regiment where he Conrad Rafique (1983) Chamber of Commerce. trained with The Royal Marines, quickly followed by “P” Company (the endurance Mr Woods was undoubtedly a great Neil Amner (1984) course which you had to undergo and teacher, and was enthusiastic and pass before training with the Parachute I was very sad to learn of Ronnie’s engaging on his subject. The techniques Regiment). On completion of this passing. History was my favourite he taught for note taking and ordering training he travelled to Singapore for a subject and he made it compelling, information I encourage my own sons to two and a half year engagement. relevant and even fun. He taught in an use even today. engaging, informative and sometimes I met and married Dorothy in 1965 and a few years later they had two daughters, Duncan Montgomery (1988) quite dramatic way. What I hope is not lost in tributes to him was his formative Mel and Nicky. On leaving the army Ronnie (or RBW as he was known...) role in the faith journeys of many pupils. in 1988 he joined IBM and moved to was one of the finest teachers I ever had, He gave a strong, positive lead to our Salisbury in Wiltshire. It was in Salisbury and was an absolute rock in the aftermath Scripture Union work and I was eagerly that he first joined Rotary and in 2005 of Mark Scott’s death, when so many of encouraged by him in my own early walk became President. Having hung up his us were mourning kids. Sad news. with God. I was privileged to be asked rugby boots, he became a referee and by him at 17 to lead at my first Scripture loved his Saturday afternoon travelling Rowena Clark (1999) Union Camp, a Camp where Ronnie had throughout the county refereeing overarching responsibility. matches. After visiting Cyprus with As a teacher myself, I know that every his family in 2006 they decided to buy pupil needs that one teacher who inspires. David Pitkeathly (1982) a house on the island and they had I was lucky in having a few, but Ronnie eight years enjoying the Mediterranean inspired my love of modern studies, His enthusiasm for teaching history was sunshine and food before Robert was which remains my only academic prize infectious and his classes were always diagnosed with Cancer. Despite the (in 1987). His methodical organisation interesting. However, I also remember magnificent care he had from The Bank of overhead ‘RBW A3’ is something I him for his faith and his work for the of Cyprus Oncology Centre he died on 4 will always remember with fondness. In Scripture Union. I am sure that his March 2016. today’s league-table-driven academic age, work for SU and “Inter Alia” will have He was buried with full Military we forget that the teacher gifts an interest influenced the lives of many former Honours at The Military Cemetery in a subject that lasts long after the exam pupils as it did for me. in Dhekelia where he was first posted. has been sat and the result letter opened. Robert often spoke fondly of his years at I continue to be fascinated by modern Al Brown (1979) Glasgow Academy and wore his tie with studies and this is largely a result of his pride on many occasions. passion and empathy.

Bill Howie (1987) Jean B M Beattie (nee

Ronnie was indeed an inspirational Anderson) (1963) 1944 - 2016 teacher, whose influence remains with me 30 odd years after I last sat in his Jean passed away peacefully on Thursday classroom. He had the ability to convey 27 October 2016. Dearly loved wife of his ideas clearly and to pass on techniques Alf, much loved mother to Carole and in the organisation of ideas into coherent Alison, loved sister of Marion, a doting

Etcetera 33 gran to Harry, Libby and Sam, and a post at Edinburgh University he became grandchildren. He is sadly missed by his mother-in-law to Mark and Ian. She involved in Archaeology. sisters Ruth and Kay. will be sadly missed. A celebration of He began excavating in the Udal Jean’s life was held in Perth on Monday 7 Archaelogical site in North Uist in 1963 James S Galloway FIET November. until 1995. The Udal is one of the most (1964) important sites in the UK and it has a 4 July 1947 - 20 May 2016 I Bruce M Caldwell unique chronological depth which spans After a brave 10-month battle against the Neolithic, 3000BC, the Bronze Age, (1974) invasive cancer, James Stanyard Galloway 8 May 1956 - June 2016 Iron Age, Viking, Medieval, Post Medieval sadly passed away peacefully in Capetown, and up to the early 20th Century. He Bruce died peacefully, surrounded by his South Africa. Whilst still at school, he collected his archive covering a highly family. Adored husband of Elly and most undertook a trip to Sept Iles, Canada on significant landscape of domestic beloved dad of Beth and Bobby. Much an Ore Carrier with the Denholm Line. occupation, funerary and ritual behaviour cherished son of the late Rev. James and Subsequently, he gained an apprenticeship material, (with a view to publication), at Marjory Caldwell and loving brother of in Electrical Engineering with James his home in Crossmichael. Joan and Miller. Friend to very many. Kilpatrick and Sons in Paisley. This Admired and very loved by all who knew The archive is now available to was followed by an appointment with him. So sadly missed. Archaelogical Services Comhairle from Dunbarton County Council. Historic Scotland, to pursue his work. He always had a love of the sea and Alan R Cannon (1954) His last few years were spent, with a 21 June 1936 - 19 November 2015 joined the Ben Line as a Junior Electrical number of physical ailments, in the Officer. Thereafter his professional career Alan died unexpectedly in his sleep of excellent hands of the staff of the was spent both ashore and afloat. He held heart failure. He and his wife Clare had Barlochan Care Home, Palnackie, Castle senior positions with Todd and Duncan 50 very happy years of marriage. Alan is Douglas, where he died peacefully on 22 Cashmere in Kinross and British Bakeries survived by Clare and a son who is an August 2016. in Glasgow. Associate Professor of Engineering at Oxford University and a daughter who is During this time he also volunteered as a Community Nurse for Children with an Instructor Officer in The Royal Naval Complex Needs - and four delightful and Reserve, attached to the Glasgow and successful grandchildren of whom he was Strathclyde Universities Royal Naval very proud. Unit where he was actively involved in training the students of both Universities Alan G Cochrane in navigation and seamanship. He was 16 February 1958 - 6 May 2016 held in high regard among the students and staff. Alan died peacefully, at home, aged 58 years. He passed away following a Latterly, he joined Renaissance Cruises as battle with Motor Neurone Disease. the Chief Electrical Officer in a variety He was a highly regarded practitioner of their ships, before transferring to the at the Academy Vet Centre in Stranraer. Caribbean Cruise Line. After further Alan was described by colleagues as a appointments he was promoted to Fleet fun-loving man and a talented veterinary Superintendent, responsible for the surgeon who will be sadly missed. construction, fitting out and setting to Beloved husband of Jo, dearly loved father work of a number of their most modern Dr. Thomas Forrester of Angus, Robyn, Olivia and the late Cruise Liners. Douglas. These appointments led him to work in Dr. Thomas Forrester India, Florida, Sweden and France. He Ian A Crawford (1947) was held in very high regard in all these 13 March 1928 - 22 August 2016 (1954) positions and was known in the Cruise 22 November 1936 - 13 August 2016 Ian entered the Academy in the Junior Industry as “The Mad Highlander”, School and left in Easter 1947. He Tommy attended the Academy from 1942 which shows how much people across the was a member of the Globe Players, a to 1954 and then went on to Glasgow globe thought of James Galloway. prize-winning middle distance runner University to study medicine. After RIP, my dear friend. You are very sadly on Sports Days, a piper in the band, qualifying he joined Glasgow University missed. a Scottish Nationalist all his life, and physiology department as a lecturer and became a self-taught Gaelic speaker. After researcher. In 1975 he emigrated to the Graham Black (1967) National Service in the Royal Armoured U.S.A. where, for over thirty years, he Ian Guthrie Corps he went up to Christ’s College was a lecturer and Professor of physiology 12 October 1953-26 December 2016 Cambridge where he studied History. and pharmacology at St. Louis University He was an active College Rugby player Medical School. He is survived by his Peacefully on the 26 December at The and also a member of the University loving wife Norma, their three children Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, “Achilles” Athletic Club. After obtaining Linda, Claire and Robert and six Glasgow, beloved father of Mark, Alison,

34 Etcetera Karen, Sean and Campbell, husband of retirement, his energy was legendary. In Sheila to join him there and start a family. Tadalech and the late Ann and Papa of 2000, aged 84, he competed in a 10k In 1968, the Jarvis family immigrated Zoë, Emma, Mia, Adam and Lila. race from Killearn to Strathblane. At to Canada, where Michael worked for age 96, Dr Harrison was still delivering CFM, Ultramar and finally York Central meals-on-wheels and keeping busy with Dr H Perry C Harrison Hospital. his painting and gardening. (1933) He loved sailing, and all sorts of games. A 21 November 1915 - 29 September 2016 Irene Inwood (Former member of the Boulevard Club and then Herbert Percival Cooper Harrison was Mimico Cruising Club, he loved sailing one of twins, born in Guildford, at the staff) in Scotland, on the Great Lakes, the November 1929 - 11 January 2017 height of the First World War. One of his Maritimes and anywhere else. Michael first memories was the sight of Zeppelins Irene was born in November 1929 in served his community through Fairlawn heading for London. Scotstoun. She attended Scotstoun Avenue United Church and King City Primary followed by Victoria Drive United Church, and after retiring through His father, who served with the Royal Secondary School. Irene excelled in CESO (Canadian Executive Services Engineers, was treated at Craiglockhart sports and on the academic side. Being Organisation) in Panama, Bolivia and in Edinburgh for shellshock but made a appointed Dux was a wonderful end Canada. good recovery and in the 1920s brought to her school career. An M.A. at The his family to Glasgow, where the twins Michael died of brain cancer and will University of Glasgow followed, with attended Glasgow Academy before be greatly missed by Sheila, his wife French and Mathematics being her completing their education as boarders at of 53 years and their four children, of special interest. She was fluent in French Mill Hill School. whom he was immensely proud: Katie, and calculus. No mean achievement for a Fiona, David, and Geoff and his four He went on to study medicine young girl from such humble beginnings. grandchildren. in Glasgow. Perry initially chose Irene joined the staff of The Glasgow orthopaedic surgery when he qualified Academy in the 1980’s. She was there in 1939 but after serving in the Merchant for twelve years and during this time set Professor Sir Malcolm and Royal Navy during the war, settled up and ran the social services outreach C Macnaughton (1942) on the life of a country doctor. program from the school for those pupils who for various reasons did not or could Honorary Governor He arrived in Strathblane in 1950 with 4 April 1925 - 1 July 2016 not participate in the CCF, the cadet his wife Cecile and two daughters. force. This was a novelty for rather a Malcolm Campbell Macnaughton A son completed the family and over traditional boys only school and proved (known as Callum) was the elder son of the following 35 years Dr Harrison to be a most successful and worthwhile James Hay Macnaughton, an accountant became something of an institution. “My enterprise. She retired from teaching at and secretary of the Straits Trading Co patients often spanned three generations, 60 about the same time that George gave of Singapore, and his wife Mary. He was sometimes four,” he said. Even in up the bookshop in Milngavie. While still educated initially at St Columba’s School, teaching Irene became involved with the Kilmacolm and then Craigholme School Dr H Perry C Harrison Children’s Panel. This was a relatively new before enrolling at The Glasgow Academy and uniquely Scottish way of trying to in 1933. divert troubled and delinquent children Callum went on to study medicine from the court process. at Glasgow University in 1942. On graduating he worked as a resident in the Michael W W Jarvis city’s Victoria Infirmary and Rottenrow (1951) maternity hospital before his national 16 July 1933 - 11 September 2016 service. He served two years in the Gurkhas in Hong Kong and the New Michael Warden Whitehorn Jarvis was Territories and was demobbed (as a born in Glasgow, the youngest of four Captain) in 1952 when he returned, as a sons of Rev Dr Ernest Jarvis and Lois senior resident to the Victoria Infirmary Jarvis. He was a pupil at The Academy and then to the Southern General. While and in his senior years played for the 2nd at Bellshill Maternity he began research VI , the 2nd XV, and was a member of – work that signalled a move towards the Humanist and Debating societies. academia and an enduring interest in the Michael went on to study at Glasgow endocrinology of reproduction. In 1961 University and graduated with an MA, he moved to Dundee as a senior lecturer LLB and CA. before taking up the Muirhead Chair of He worked as a CA accountant his entire Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Glasgow life, but an offer of adventure overcame University in 1970. Callum believed the his accountant veneer and after a short benefits of legalising abortion outweighed time working in Scotland, he went to the drawbacks and worked quietly to Venezuela, where he worked for 8 years change attitudes. He recognised the need at Peat Marwick Mitchell, persuading for a family planning service but he was

Etcetera 35 also moved by the plight of those unable Alistair was a much respected member a diamond mine in Tanzania, a cement to have children. of Round Table and of Louden Rotary works in Buckinghamshire, a tea factory in Club. He served as President on two Kenya and then back to an oil refinery in After being elected president of the occasions and was awarded the Paul Hampshire. Royal College of Gynaecologists in Harris Fellowship for his commitment 1984 he went on to become president On retirement he returned to his beloved to Rotary. He was also an active member of the British Fertility Society in 1992, Scotland and settled down near the of Galston Parish church. He was also an the same year he became a vice president village of Contin in Ross-shire. He and avid reader and enjoyed music and films. of the Royal College of Midwives. Sheila enjoyed exploring the beautiful Throughout all his academic and practical Alistair died from brain cancer - an illness countryside around them. Sheila died in work, which also encompassed cancer which he bore with good humour and 2006 and Martin stayed in Scotland until surgery and pioneering the Scottish quiet courage. He is survived by Isobel he could no longer manage on his own. Perinatal Mortality audit, Callum (his wife of nearly 49 years), children At the age of 95 he moved to a care home demonstrated enormous empathy and Fiona and Neil, and five grandchildren. in Dorset to be near his family and died common sense coupled with the ability shortly afterwards in Dorchester County to see things from the point of view J Martin D Milree (1938) Hospital. Martin is survived by a daughter, of both his patients and his students. two sons, seven grandchildren and three 19 September 1920 - 25 April 1916 Author of numerous books and research great grandchildren. papers on obstetrics, gynaecology and James Martin Deschamps Milree was endocrinology, after retiring in 1990 he the only child of James (a mechanical Peter R Petrie (1961) continued to support innovative research engineer who served in the Royal 25 December 1944 - 7 April 2016 through his 10-year tenure as chairman of Navy during WWI) and Marion Milree. Peter died suddenly at the Canberra Tenovus Scotland. Martin was born in Glasgow but moved Hospital, ACT, Australia following a short soon afterwards with his parents to India. Beyond his professional career, he was a illness – a much loved dad, grandpa, uncle He was sent back to Scotland aged 7 to keen fisherman and curler and had been and brother. ensure he got a good education. At this a member of the BMA curling club along time he stayed with various friends and with Margaret-Ann, his wife of more relatives and between the ages of 7 and Andrew M Reid (1947) than 60 years. The one great sadness in 21 July 1929 - 16 May 2016 14 Martin only saw his parents once. He an otherwise supremely successful and attended boarding school in Moffat for Andrew Milton Reid was the son of the happy life was the loss of his younger a time and then lived with his parents in late Rev ARR Reid and Lilias Tindal of brother Douglas and his wife, who were the West End when he became a pupil at Hillhead Street. He was one of five Reid killed in a car crash en route to join him The Academy in 1934. brothers to attend Glasgow Academy. and his wife at the Royal College of Andrew was enrolled in 1936 with Gynaecologists during his presidency. Martin obtained an apprenticeship in Ronald (1943) and David (1944). Later mechanical engineering during which Callum, who is survived by his wife and they were joined by Barclay (1951) and time war broke out. After completing children Graham, Jane, Torquil, Gillian Graham (1953). Andrew won a number of his apprenticeship, he joined the Royal and Jennifer, 11 grandchildren and two prizes while at The Academy and he was Electrical and Mechanical Engineers great grandchildren, died on July 1, a prefect, Lance Corporal in the JTC and (REME) as a 2nd Lieutenant and was precisely 100 years to the day since the a member of the Globe Players and the posted to India where he was involved in death at The Somme of his Uncle Callum Debating Society. the maintenance and repair of tanks. He from whom he took his name. rose to the rank of captain and the end Andrew won a place to study at Jesus of the war found him in Ceylon. There College, Oxford. On graduating he joined Alistair McLean he met Sheila who was in the Wrens and Imperial Tobacco as a management trainee 19 February 1940 - 15 July 2014 they married in 1948. Martin stayed in and swiftly rose through the ranks. In Alistair’s family home was in Maybole. the army and saw service in Egypt before 1975 he was appointed Assistant Managing Initially educated at Cambusdoon School coming home to Hampshire, by which Director with John Player & Sons but in Ayr he came to Glasgow Academy as a time he had two sons. returned to Imperial Group as a Director boarder in 1954. At school he excelled in three years later, serving Chairman from He reluctantly left the army although the Pipe Band in both the Junior and the 1979–86. he remained in the TA with the rank Senior School. He was also a keen rugby of Major. Martin found work with He went on to hold a number of player and a member of the RAF JTC. Rolls Royce and the family moved to non-executive positions in industry and This gave him a lifetime interest in all East Kilbride where his daughter was with public bodies including with Trade things aeronautical and Alistair had very born. Another post led to a move to Indemnity plc (where he served as Deputy much wanted to train as a Royal Air Northern Rhodesia. During one period Chairman), Renold plc, the Tobacco Force pilot. His eyesight meant this was of leave, Martin drove his Rover 90 all Advisory Council, the Royal School of not possible and so he chose to study the way back to the UK via the Congo, Church Music, Bristol University Court Chemistry and then had a successful Nigeria and across the Sahara Desert. and Council and the Bristol Development career in the food industry. He lectured The rest of the family returned to the Corporation Board. Andrew also served for a time and then joined Braehead UK by air, which was a three-day trip as Chairman of Governors of Colston’s Foods in Kilmarnock. in those days! Career moves then took Collegiate School, as Master of the Society Martin to the Milford Haven oil refinery, of Merchant Venturers of Bristol and as a

36 Etcetera High Sheriff of Avon. understand the value of Fletcher Maths. School trips were not the norm in those Beyond work and public life Andrew days but her class were always treated enjoyed sailing, golf and fishing, as well as to an outing to the Moss in Kilmacolm spending time with family and friends at where they enjoyed tracking and cooking the family home in Somerset. over a fire. He married his first wife, Norma We never lost touch as our Mothers Davidson, in 1953. They had two sons. played Bridge together on a regular Norma sadly died in 1993. Andrew basis. Then in 1965 I joined the staff married his second wife, Audrey Wilson, of Glasgow Academy and so we were in 1995. He is survived by Audrey and colleagues till her retirement in 1983. two sons. Doris Johnston Vaughan (right) When my class prepared to move on to the next stage they were always amazed Peter A Ross (1954) Wales Hospice. Beloved husband of when I said, ‘Miss Johnston was my 1936-2016 the late Mary, dad to Susan and Brian, teacher too.’ We also car-shared till I was Peacefully on 25 December 2016, Peter father-in-law of Karen and grandfather to married in 1974. Angus, dearly loved husband of Elliot and Stefani, Jamie, Ross and Holly. She was a loyal colleague and friend a dear brother and Uncle. Doris Johnston Vaughan and as a staff we all missed her when Alexander Douglas she retired. She treasured her unique (former staff) silver brooch with the letters GA on a (Sandy) Small (1960) 21 March 1923 - 27 July 2016 bar, made specially for her by Bethsy 28 March 1944 - 18 November 2016 Gray. However, her retirement was no A personal reflection by Margaret ordinary one! A wedding and America! At home, beloved husband of Maureen, (McNeill) Tindall She married Bob Vaughan, an American loving father of Mary, Hannah and I had a unique relationship with Doris minister, whom she met when he made Eleanor, dear brother of Maggie, proud Johnston Vaughan - both as pupil and an exchange visit to St Columba Church, uncle and grandpa. colleague. Kilmacolm. When I heard of Doris’s death in July, my I was so pleased that she found real Thomas E D (Ted) Smith mind immediately returned to a visit to fulfilment and happiness in her marriage Bob and Doris at Brandermill Woods. She (1953) to Bob and they shared over 25 years 17 March 1935 - 31 May 2016 introduced me to a gathering and told the together. It was a real pleasure to visit assembled audience that she had taught Ted died suddenly, but peacefully, at The their home and share their hospitality. It me to read and write. Which was true! Royal Alexandra Hospital, Paisley. Thomas was a comfort in later years after Bob’s My very first teacher at St Columba’s Edward Davidson, much loved husband death, to know how loving and caring his School, Kilmacolm, was Miss Johnston of Elizabeth, beloved dad of Lorne family were too. in 1948. We also met at Sunday School and Morven and a devoted grandad of where she led the Primary Department at She loved her career at Glasgow Academy Hannah and James. the Old Kirk and at Brownies where she and it was a delight in July 2013 to be was the Brown Owl. with her as she stood in her old classroom W Russell Stevenson in House 1 of the Terrace and then to After leaving St Columba’s School, witness her amazement at all the changes (1945) Kilmacolm, where she was joint Head 10 October 1934 - 16 October 2016 which had taken place. Girl, Doris went to Bedford Training Russell died peacefully at Forth Valley College to study for the Higher Serva Fidem - keep faith - our school Royal Hospital, Larbert. Much loved Certificate of the National Froebel motto was illustrated in her own life. husband and best friend of Olive, a caring Union, from where she passed out as the Never resting on her laurels, always keen uncle, great-uncle and great-great-uncle. most distinguished student of her year. to explore new trends in education, her Russell will be sadly missed by all who From 1944-48 she was a Junior Mistress Christian faith as her backbone, Doris knew him. at Polam Hall School in Darlington and exemplified the characteristics of our returned to St Columba’s in 1948 as a school motto throughout her life. Colin Sutherland (1975) Preparatory Teacher until 1952. Doris 4 May 1957 - 25 August 2016 then spent six years at Quarrier’s Homes Colin died peacefully at Crosshouse Anthony Francis Michael in Bridge of Weir before joining the Hospital, Kilmarnock, after a long illness, staff of the Preparatory Department of Wells aged 59. A very dearly loved son of Myra 1945-2016 Glasgow Academy in 1958. She was a and the late Drew - AAC Sutherland dedicated teacher and put her Froebel Anthony died peacefully on 31 (1944). qualification to good use. She was December 2016, aged 71, in Dumfries especially interested in mathematics and and Galloway. Previously public Hugh E Thomson whenever a new method was introduced prosecutor in London and Leics, student 1933-2016 she embraced it wholeheartedly. Her at University College, Oxford, and Hugh died peacefully on 24 December classes enjoyed using the coloured Glasgow Academy. 2016 at The Prince and Princess of Cuisenaire rods and later she helped us all

Etcetera 37 Mr MacGregor was my first teacher at presence in my formative years. the school (prep 6) and was certainly Tributes to Ian He had a close bond with the members of quite a baptism to the Academy. A few of his first XV to whom he was not only a MacGregor my other classmates (Colin Henderson, rugby coach but also a friend and mentor. (1931 - 2016) Geoff Woods and others) still remember some strange happenings that year with Laurence Sellyn (1967) amusement and I’m sure I’m not the only I have very fond memories of Ian from one remembering past times with him both rugby sessions at ‘Windy Edge’ and now. his valiant attempts to teach me English Alastair Brown (1992) during my time at The Academy in the Very saddened to hear the news of Ian 60’s. Incidentally, I am currently secretary MacGregor. He was a brilliant teacher of The Partick Burns Club, of which Ian and I have very fond memories of him at MacGregor was president in 1982-83. school. Malcolm Sharp (1968) Andrew Fulton (1967) And yet only a few days later the same I am very sorry to learn of the death of Ian MacGregor rendered me a service yet another master who was ever present which I will never forget and which during my time at the Academy. Mr had a major effect on my health and my MacGregor could evoke mixed emotions years at the Academy - he introduced but he was always very kind to me, helped me to the sport of rugby. It was our first no doubt, in part, by my enthusiasm for afternoon at Anniesland and he was in rugby and his living round the corner charge of all the novices, myself included, an was a fine Scotland from where we lived at the time. The who had never seen a rugby ball before. international rugby forward latter resulted in a few shared walks home We ran up and down the field passing the Iwho went on to become one which were a good deal less terrifying ball and then were shown how to tackle. of the leading administrators of the than some his transitus classes! After a few minutes of this Ian took me pre-professional years of the game. A Duncan Gilmour (1972) by the shoulder and marched me over to proud Glaswegian, he was educated the other field where the A and B XV’s at Hillhead High School and studied I remember Ian Macgregor well at the were playing, supervised by Allan Quinn PE at the Scottish School of Jordanhill school. He came initially to teach PE but I think. “Do you know the rules?” Ian College before two years of national when he got injured in 1958 he moved asked. “No” I replied. “Well, it’s easy - service with the Royal Air Force. over to fill a vacancy for a teacher of the when that boy passes the ball to you, you Ian had already played for Glasgow Transitus classes but of course continued run and don’t stop running until you get District and in two of the three his enthusiastic support from the touch over that line near those posts.” Well I did Scottish trials held in 1955, when he line when the first XV were in action. as I was told and didn’t stop running for won his first cap against Ireland at In particular he expressed to me his the next 25 years, at school, at university, Murrayfield on 26 February. He was a appreciation of my presence on the touch and beyond, loving every minute of it. Scotland regular throughout the 1956 line for a number of first XV games in Even today I remain a rugby tragic, Five Nations campaign. He played in 1958, at a time when the first XV had avidly following all the internationals, the French game, the opener to the been struggling, following a mass exodus and planning my attendance at each 1957 Five Nations as a Llanelli played, of talent in 1957. I think the chronicles of World Cup. March 1958 and June 1958 will mention then he returned to Hughenden to Dr Tony Smithyman (1966) win his eighth and ninth caps against this exodus! I know he helped to shape Wales and Ireland in February1957. the character of a number of young I enjoyed being taught by Mr MacGregor The narrow 5-3 loss to Ireland was his Transitus boys alongside Lachy Robertson in Transitus; my form had him for Maths, final cap. and Farquhar Mackintosh. and he always managed to be both Henry Murray Humphreys (1959) thorough and good-humoured – not an In 1957, Ian took up a teaching post easy combination! He was a true legend at Glasgow Academy and remained Fond memories of Ian – he was my form of Colebrooke Street. here throughout his career right up to teacher in Transitus. Mixture of scary his retirement in 1991. He continued and entertaining! Great rugby coach too Aidan Thomson (1992) to live in Glasgow before moving to – our 1st XV I the mid 80’s were all the Iain taught both my Dad and myself Arran to spend his final years living better for his wisdom and no nonsense during his time at the Academy, and was in Lamlash. Ian is survived by Helen, approach to forward play. a very supportive teacher in the class and his wife of more than 50 years, sons John Mason (1987) as committed rugby coach out at New Calum and Graeme who followed Anniesland. I also remember my first their father into rugby as fine players Ian was my coach during my term in the game for the Accies 1stXV as an 18 year with Glasgow Academicals, daughter 1ST fifteen – a tough man. He will be old and playing in the same team as both Sheila and grand-children Fiona, missed. Callum and Graeme Alastair, Jennifer and Kate. Michael Scott (1960) Ian was a strong personality and a large Stuart Wilson (1992)

38 Etcetera Dear Sir… to the skip. It has been on my wall ever Dear Malcolm, since. My teachers may recall my distraction in I phoned Malcolm at the Academy and their classes as my attentions were always relayed the story. He contacted Hasie, towards the art department, and I also who was delighted to hear of the find recall my early days in senior 1 being and even more pleased that I had all the focused on one day spending my final names – something he did not have on year in the A Level art room. It is with his own smaller version, which his family pure pleasure that I can say I am living the had given to him for his 80th birthday. It dream of being a full time artist with my was agreed that I should visit Hasie and work being displayed in Glasgow, London show him the bigger picture! and as far as various Australian cities. A recent interview I did with premier UK Early in March, I called to Hasie’s flat in framers and artist surface suppliers John Bearsden and spent a fascinating hour Jones, London can be found at: going through all the names and hearing A Chance Encounter the stories. Pictures were taken to mark www.johnjones.co.uk/education/ I enjoyed reading the articles in the the event and I left to allow Hasie to have interviews/fine-artists/james-klinge/ last edition of Etcetera about our two a rest as he was going out for his weekly I hope you find this interesting and illustrious centenarians. On reflection, bridge session that evening. maybe think that the readers of Etcetera the name of J.H. Young rang a bell but I For the record, Hasie was a bit peeved might find my artistic antics interesting could not place it. Then the light dawned that he did not attract the column inches as well. - he was staring at me from my study in Etcetera that the other centenarian wall! Yours sincerely had achieved. “They missed out all the James Klinge (2001) For all my days (nearly 70 years), a team good stuff!”, he told me, in some slight photo from 1933-34 has had pride of indignation. I promised to put the record place in our many houses. It was Duncan straight! Macnaughtan, my father’s only claim Dear Sir Hasie’s two daughters attended to sporting fame from his days at the My uncle, Alexander Roxburgh Murray, Westbourne. Academy – his 2nd fifteen cap from his was killed leading his men into action last year. As a child, I often looked at it Hasie was chair of the fundraising near Beaumont Hamel, France on 18 and knew all the names. Indeed, when committee that raised all the monies for November 1916. The weather was foul I was at the Academy, the son of one of the new pavilion at Anniesland. that day with sleet falling. One of his those pictured was in my year - L.W.L. men shouted, “Turn back, Sir; you will He also set up the bar at Anniesland and (Leggie) Smith from Campsie Glen, as I surely be killed.” He replied, “No, I must managed the volunteers for 10 years. remember. go on, it is my duty to go on.” It was the May he enjoy many more! last day of the battle of the Somme. My father died in 1993 and I rescued the In September this year my wife and I, picture, before my mother consigned it Douglas Macnaughtan (1965) along with Peter and Liz Semple, visited the battlefield. Peter’s great uncle fell in the same action a few days before Alec. We visited the respective cemeteries and paid our respects. About 150 men lie in the small cemetery where Alec is buried. Almost all of them died on 18th November and five second lieutenants, of whom Alec was one, fell that day. Alec is the youngest man buried there, 18 years old. My father was Alec’s youngest brother. He became captain of the school, captain of rugby and of cricket in 1924/25. My brother and I attended the school in the 1950s. My son Peter attended the school from 1975 to 1987. Yours sincerely, Douglas Murray

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