THE SHIRBURNIAN MICHAELMAS 1994

'Believe me! The secret of reaping the greatestfruitfulness and the greatest enjoyment from life is to live dangerously. ' F. Nietzsche

Editor: G. R. W. Malim Art Ectitor: H. R. Wood

Photographic Editor: T. Kaneko Assistant Editors: T. M. Balmer, M.A. M. Buchanan, A. P. McAllister, C. A. J. Martin

Photographs by: A. M. Crouch, P 21 D.J.R., pp64.6S T. Kaneko, PP 12. JJ. 69. 10. 11 J .S.-S., pp 42. 4J J.-M.P., p40 S.M.S.; PP 1s. 19 A.E.R., pp16.11.J1.S4 R. M. Tutt, PP 1s. 16

Artwork by: C. Olivetti, P s. 6J S. F. R. Clark, PP 74. 1s. 16. 1s. so

Printed by Shelleys, Sherborne aimmg to impress or inform people about what is happening to the surface of The Courts. I am convinced that this would be a real opportunity and feel sure that the School would support it but it remains to be seen whether any boys have the enthusiasm to start such a venture. Unfortunately, I have left it too late to consider doing so myself but the stage now stands empty and it will be interesting Editorial to see whether, in the new year, The Shirburnian shares the limelight with a new publication or whether Apathy and Rugby are stilJ the burning topics at the heart of schoolboy journalism.

Ah yes ... The Shirburnian. The magazine of a hundred sports reviews and ... and what? I am Diary aware that it is not 'done' for an Editor to criticise his organ, especialJy if the publication in question is one as formal as The Shirburnian. However, it is about the restricted nature of The Shirburnian that I wish to comment in this Editorial. (I am also aware that I am breaking new ground in choosing How wonderful to arrive back at school to be not to offer the customary quaint platitudes greeted by such clean looking Courts. No doubt the concerning the beauty of the School's architecture, vast quantity of dust on the buildings left by the apathy of its inmates or, if we're being really generations of boys running to lessons to avoid radical, bringing up taboo subjects such as home­ tardy book was sorry to leave such a prestigious clothes.) position. The School's response to The Shirburnian is It seemed though, that this was only a fraction usualJy pretty dismal. At first it is greeted with of a massive clean-up operation of central enthusiasm and eagerly skimmed through in search Sherbome: does this mean that our town will of flattering photography, the relevant sports become the social Mecca of Europe? With the review is read and then it is consigned to the bin or Sherbome School Athletic Association's new some dusty shelf. This could be one reason why neoprene fitness strip, making passers-by wonder Editorials are frequently so mundane. Most Editors where these God-like images appeared from, there guess their work will only be read by about ten is already a distinct pattern emerging from the percent of their readership, so why bother making it previously unknown town of Sherborne. interesting? Thus the circle is repeated and becomes Unfortunately, the beautiful Pageant Gardens eternal. To be fair, The Shirburnian is interesting if have become a no-go area, due to the menace of you're a sport-crazed photography fanatic and it local narcotic activity, meaning we will only be able does have some amusing pages like Obiter Dicta to revel in the autumnal reds, browns and yelJows and the Diary which sometimes provoke a muted from the perimeter. chortle or two. Our new sports hall Deputy Manager, Brian So what is there to do with a magazine that is, Higgins, is enjoying the comfort of his green-house quite frankly, worthy, respectable, but ever-so­ built in the foyer of the leisure complex and slightly dull? The answer is to leave it as it is, in equipped with the very latest burglar alarm and typical Shirburnian fashion. As it stands it fulfills tele-communications equipment. Now that he has a all manner of purposes: it looks glossy and status symbol, will Mr. Nurton step down from the impressive to both parents and 'prospective position of Manager and earn a living supplying parents', it informs (but only to an extent), it airs orange juice in the Stick and performing vanishing views (but only anaesthetised ones), it also gives the tricks with the boys' money in the snack machine? Editorial board a sense of achievement and acts as a (Oh, 1 nearly forgot, he's a Theology teacher.) chronical of the School that may one day prove an And to finish with, the sad departure of various interesting historical source. However, I remain teachers (yes, FA cup as well, The Digby) caused a convinced that even many years into the future it stir within the School as some of its most renowned may appear more chronic than a chronicle. characters headed off into the sunset. Could this be The logical answer to the lack of excitement to a sign of the end of a great Shirburnian era - or be found in The Shirburnian is not to pervert the maybe the start of a new one? very nature of the school magazine by attempting to I'm sorry I have to leave you here, but I 've got drag it kicking and screaming up to date, but to 10 work out how to print on this wretched launch an alternative magazine to satisfy more computer. probing and, perhaps, less serious minds. A magazine such as this would have no truck with The Sherborne Diarist

2 The Chronicle

Academic

Cambridge Places The following have gained places at Cambridge on the basis of their A level results. House Name College University Course g A. H. Cruise Gonville and Caius Mathematics h N. S. R. Grant Robinson Engineering g T. J. B. Hopkin Trinity Engineering f G. T. Martland Trinity Medicine

Three or more A grades at A level House Name A levels b J. G. W. Conlin English, German, History g A.H. Crujse Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry a E. B. Drummond Biology, Mathematics, Geography c J. B. Fraser French, Greek, Latin h N. S. Grant Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics f W.R. Hadley Ancient History, English, Latin m M.A. Hammond Giles French, Greek, Latin g T. J. B. Hopkin Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry m S. Hunt Mathematics, Ancient History, History f R. S. G. James French, Theology, History m G. W. Lawes French, Mathematics, Physics e C. w. Lees Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry g G. T. Martland Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry a E. A. D. Nicholson French, Ancient History, Spanish d S. E. Paterson Biology, Mathematics, Latin, Chemistry g P. J. Richards French, English, Spanish m D. C. Rigg Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry d S. Temple French, Latin, Spanish

Certificate of Excellence f R. S. G. James for Religious Studies was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Oxford and Cambridge Schools' Examination Board in recognition of 'outstanding performance in an A level syllabus'.

Seven or more A grades in GCSE or Additional Examinations Number of A grades Name 11 T. J. D. Robinson (a) 10 0. J. Bethell (a), J. D. Gardner (d), N. G. Grist (f), C. E. B. Perry (a) 9 T. R. Beard (b), A. J. Braxton (h), R. J. F. Dalton (m), A. E. de P. Ferguson (b), E. R. W. Rushton (f), C. T. Slack (d) 8 T. J. Gregory (f), J.C. Hodgson (a), R. W. James (c), T. Kaneko (m), T. D. H. Morgan (b), T. J. Scott (c), A. N. P. Searson (g), N. R. Wood (f) 7 G. J. Bradford (b), J. A. N. Brock (d), D. L. 0. Crosthwaite-Eyre (d), S. J. Crouch (m), E. H. Hadley (f), R. W. Keightley (g)

3 Internal A wards The following have won internal awards as a result of their performance within the School and at GCSE: Exhibitions House Name b T. R. Beard d 0. J. Bethell m T. Kaneko a C. E. B. Perry d C. T. Slack f N. R. Wood

Additional Sixth Form Entry A ward The following has been awarded an Academic Exhibition as a result of his performance at GCSE: House Name a S. R. Fortescue

G. J. Bradford (b) received a letter of congratulation from the GCSE Board on achieving IOOOJo in Maths module Pl.

Music

The following were awarded distinctions in Associated Board Examinations: House Name Instrument Grade Mark f D. C. Gibbs Organ 8 131 b C. L. Billington Trumpet 7 130 m N. D. W. Chuter Oboe 3 130

C. A. J. Martin (m) came 2nd in the National T.E.S./Yamaha Young Composer Competition. Two violinists, A. E. M. Lewis (f) and R. E. Carvell (g), have won 'Vicars Close' prizes, as a result of gaining the highest marks in the region at Grade 8 and Grade 7 respectively. Dorset Opera celebrated its 21st year with a production of Verdi's Un Giorno di Regno.

Sport Cricket: M. J. Hawkins (g): Dorset U14. C. C. M. Warren (d): Dorset UJ5. A. E. Bellew (e): Dorset U/7. A. D. Nurton (m): Dorset U/9 and U/7. Hockey: J. H. K. Adams (c): Dorset U14. M.A. Shearer (b) and M. J. Simon (m): Dorset U/6. N. J. Henderson (f), S. J. Hill (h), A. N. P. Searson (g) and T. J. Scott (c): Dorset U18.

Sailing: J. M. D. Ellerbeck, C. R. Venne, C. R. Waaler (all d) gained their R. Y.A. Competent Crew Certificate.

4 --·---... -.__

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Athletics: N. R. Wood (I) achieved a new school record for the 800m (I minute 58.4) in the U17 semi-final of the A.A.A. National Championships. Fencing: T. E.G. Jacobus (h) and G. M. Dixon (g) won gold and silver medals respectively for County fencing.

General

T. 0. M. Hulf (g) gained his rock-climbing Leader's Certificate from Glenmore Lodge. C. A. Copper and J. W. J. Warren (both d) gained Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards. J. A. Stark (I) took on a major role in the Commem. play Terra Nova with less than three weeks to learn the part, and performed it with distinction.

Compiled from information supplied by the Headmaster, Housemasters, the Director of Music and the Masters in Charge of Sport. s D.P.K.C. 1978 - 1994

'Paul's job is amazing - jeL-setting, good food and drink, were very important to us. J negotiating, sweating, arguing, trying to make the can remember our last such meeting in Westcott, 'phone work - no photocopier, fax or anything.' where the Chaplain was airing his views on the So wrote Jane Carling in a recent letter from monarchy and Mark Skinner was discussing Assam. The thought of Paul being without a conscription: it was a lively free for all, though Paul photocopier is an interesting one! I wonder whether was oddly quiet, letting the 'new boys' get on with he has a printer for his PSION. The daily it in the way that he had done for so many years. adventures which come with living in Assam will be But nearly every week during term for the past six just up Paul's street. years we met in Westcott; the number of wine For Paul is an adventurous person; working bottles sitting on top of the dining room's panelling alongside him in the Theology Department was a grew until all the space was occupied. We were bit of an adventure: l never knew when he would welcomed wholeheartedly into Westcott, and were next crash through the door of Room 11 en route able to witness Paul's housemastering in action: for the video cupboard; or whether I could escape boys in his care were challenged and confronted by from ·Room 12 after just innocently fetching a text their housemaster; they were made to think out book. Being next door to Paul was great fun: there their motives and their actions. 'Comfort the was unpredictability, an impish sense of humour disturbed and disturb the comfortable': Paul did and great passion at times too. exactly that; complacency and bad old habits were In September, I drove my old Morris Minor up a faced up to; Paul had no time for unthinking back lane in West Coker to a Huie garage tucked practices that were handed down in the House out of sight. There was another familiar vehicle through the generations. And he cared passionately there: Paul's V. W. Camper. Both vehicles are now that those new to the School were welcomed. Often up for sale. ln a way the Volkswagen epitomised one would see Paul in the dining room having lunch Paul's approach to life: his spontaneity and get up with some boys and getting to know them, rather and go - which is just what he and Jane and the than sitting with staff. Again, older members of the boys did; Paul's love of travel: that V.W. is well School had to be prepared to be challenged over the travelled in Europe (a new engine was needed after lunch table, especially if they let slip some glib France one year!), rus energy, ills curiosity about opinions. Lunch might have been anything but and appetite for life; and his warmth and generosity comfortable then! But Paul made time to be with and genuine interest in others; the V.W. was a people, to engage with them, to laugh with them, to sociable vehicle. Earlier this year the whole appreciate them and, yes, to challenge them. And department set off in it for an Area Curriculum new staff as well as new boys have enjoyed rus Meeting at Bryanston; well, it was like a boys' day company. out, such was the 'clubiness' of that vehicle and the Never a dull moment: l suspect that is what life driver. We may have run out of petrol on the way in Westcott must have been like; but what a rich home, but such practicalities often seemed life: cooking competitions, in-house cultural unimportant when in Paul's company. For me, he evenings with music and poetry, drama (last year's had a whole new way of looking at things which Fourth Form production was hugely entertaining). was both liberating and challenging. Also Paul's love of sport and his wish that everyone It was Paul who hosted the weekly Theology should find his niche and play his part meant that it Departmental lunches in Westcott. Members of was a House full of activity. Official house drama other departments may at times have been a Httle productions were professional and often arresting. sceptical about such departmental 'meetings', but (Paul was qualified to teach drama, as he often the fellowship and time together, quite apart from informed us!) And, of course, there was that

8 endless hospitality which extended to anyone who Classes enjoyed Paul's flow and so did happened to be dropping in; during Lent things congregations, both at schools and in parishes. were a little quieter (except for Sundays) but Paul was a passionate and dramatic preacher beverages and delicious food (nearly always (useful qualities when faced with Sherbome School something out of the ordinary) abounded; in the Abbey). His more calm and reflective acts of especially as Stephen Wilkinson was the resident worship, which he offered on Choice Sundays, Tutor. And what a happy partnership that was, were also much appreciated. Despite appearances between Housemaster and residential Tutor: an to the contrary there was something of the Quaker evening with Paul and Jane and Stephen would in Paul; certainly he could not be doing with high pass by delightfully, with delicious food and drink, church fussiness or religious pomposity. music (sometimes a Jive performance) and rapid I am conscious that others reading this will cross-fire conversations, particularly between Paul remember the Paul pre-China or pre-Westcott; I and Jane. What an interesting marriage that is. can only write of the Paul alongside whom I have Sparks could fly (especially on religious matters); worked these past seven years. There is no doubt Paul often claimed to be in big trouble with Jane, that be is quite a remarkable man and that but in fact it is a remarkable partnership. Jane has Sherborne will feel the draught caused by his her own sense of purpose, her own zest for life; I do departure. But it was right that he should go, that not think that l had met anyone quite like Jane he should take on the huge chaHenge of setting up a before arriving at Sherborne; I believe that she used new school in Assam, The Assam Valley School. to sel out to shock me when I was a tender young He is a man with that sort of vision; somehow thing; she certainly expressed herself forcefully and anything seems possible with Paul. And yet he provocatively. Above all she too has a huge sense of remains totally accessible. So many details flit fun; and, like her husband, she can communicate through my mind as I try to assemble my thoughts the energy of a whirlwind. Her own career in about Pau.I: the suits from Oxfam; the interesting teaching was distinguished and she look it most footwe.ar; the beards that came and went; his low seriously, preparing set books in her study on the pain threshold (especially on the squash court); his first floor. r was secretly glad when she gave up her enthusiastic coaching and playing of fives with Head of Sixth Form job at Wimborne and took up Mike Cleaver; his intolerance of illness (but he a post closer to home as Head of English at retained sympathy!); his champagne cocktails; his Leweston. Again the boys in Westcott must have jazz tapes and LPs; his work on the Travel Grant found her to be a fascinating and challenging, yet Committee (and many other committees for that sympathetic figure to have around. I shall always matter) his Clerithews cricket team and annual remember Jane concocting something original in match against a World Eleven; his island off the the Westcott kitchen with the washing hanging off Scottish coast and his work there with children the overhead dryer. So she and Paul and Jack and from East London (this managed to hit a national Benedict are off on a new adventure. Jack's newspaper two years ago as one of the Shirburnians education out in Assam is apparently very formal; was helicoptered off the island!). Jane thought that they would have to provide the As 1 stated at the Leavers' Service, I personally fun, art, music and sport; I cannot think of a owe Paul a great deal: he restored my confidence couple better equipped to do it. and was a real colleague to me in the fullest sense. Paul was Housemaster of Westcott during He remained a superb resource for the Theology my whole time at Sherborne; he was also Head of Department during the whole of his time, and was Theology in my first year, a job which he had held fiercely loyal to Sherbome School. He was hardly for several years before taking over Westcott. Paul, an establishment figure but neither was he anti­ with the support of Robin Macnaghten and others, establishment for the sake of it. That sense of fun had refounded Theology as a subject at Sherbome and adventure is still with him. While staying with and was active in the subject's development right me in Sherbome just before their departure for through his time at the School. He introduced the India, Paul and Jane returned after late night revels teaching of comparative religion and the change at David Scott's house, and finding themselves over to GCSE. His classroom teaching was very locked out, climbed over the back fence, up the special: the energy bubbled away; here, he was at kitchen drainpipe and let themselves in through my his most challenging and enthusiastic. Whether it bathroom window; I slept through it all! was General Theology, A level specialists or his The adventures and challenges awaiting Paul renowned Film Studies, boys would not fail to be and Jane in India will be faced with their usuaJ zest affected by Paul's presence. And he had the knack and good cheer. Their present entourage in Assam of being able to launch into anything at the drop of includes two drivers, two guards and eight servants! a hat; what didn't he have an opinion on? Paul and Jane have g.iven so much to Sherborne 'Adrenalin on legs', that was how Robert Prance that Sberborne can do no other but wish them God once summed up Paul. And that again was another speed and every success at The Assam VaJley remarkable partnership. It was fitting that Paul was School. able to discharge his duty as Robert's best man before departing for India. H.H.D.P. 9 J.R.T. H.H.D.P. 1985 - 1994 1987 - 1994

When I was asked to write a brief resume on Henry's departure from Sherborne after seven Bob, l thought it would be an easy task. In the clear years leaves a gap that will not easily be filled. light of day it is very difficult to be brief. Bob has Many of the staff have lost a friend whose candour done so much in his working life, spending the same and sanity helped to ease the tensions of amount of time in the army as in education. He institutional life: many of the boys can say the came from Felstead to Sherborne, where many old same. After his place in the classroom and on ties were reformed, for, after all, Bob is an Old committees has been taken, this generosity of self Shirburnian. His years in School House are well­ will still make him irreplaceable. Vocation to the documented, as are his opening partnerships with ministry takes him to SL Stephen's House, Oxford, David Shepherd - the Bishop of Liverpool and where he begins a two-year training course in England cricketer. Bob was the first man to score a October. Affectionate good wishes follow him. century for the Pilgrims in the Cricketer Cup, and The photograph, revealing a jeune premier the first man in the competition to do so, beating profile with only the faintest hint of the cosier Peter May - the England Captain - to the target contours of middle age, still gives some impression by a few minutes. of the young theologian who arrived at Sherborne Bob returned to Sherborne in 1985 and filled his after several happy years at St. Nicholas' School for time with some Mathematics teaching, cricket Girls, Fleet. Then under the control of Paul coaching, hockey umpiring, etc., until he became Carling, the Sherborne Theology Department made Registrar in 1987. Bob has the wonderful gift of new demands - a rigorous, traditional A level being able to see a boy, tell him his name, his Prep course, balanced by 'General' Theology for all. School, and the other boys who came from that Henry showed how well the combination served. Prep School. It amazes boys! ' How does he know While absurdly modest about the academic side of so much about us?', they say. As a Housemaster, his work, Henry took much justified pride in the sitting in Bow House in break, one lived in fear of fact that successive generations of theologians Bob, perched on the top step, looking down, scored excellent grades. Old Testament prophets spotting his prey and pouncing, saying as he did so, always seemed an unlikely area of specialisation for 'You have a vacancy for a Fourth Former, don't one so urbane: it proved otherwise. However, it was you, Mike?' 'Yes', I reply, cautiously. 'Good, I've perhaps with the Sixth Form General Theologians just the person for you.' Bob, in his seven years as that Henry's special gifts were most in evidence, as Registrar, has seen the job change dramatically, he was able to generate discussion which was frank and the pressure on boarding increase, but he has and personal without being unstructured or self­ remained a cheerful and passionate supporter of indulgent. Sherborne and all Shirburnians. 'Head of Theology' was a phrase he would It is good to know that Bob and Penny have inflect with a hint of irony, accompanied always by made their home in Trent and that Bob will be a twinkle of the eye. The seriousness of his working as Secretary of the OS Society for many commitment was never in doubt, however: Henry years to come. I have no doubt that Bob will be finally accepted the position in 1990. For him, this seen walking on Carey's, spotting new rugby and meant creating and running a School Theology cricket talent and telling all team coaches that their Society. It meant presiding over the weekly selections are, without doubt, wrong. Bacchanalia at Westcott, termed a departmental meeting. It meant arranging departmental M.J.C. presentations for Prep School Headmasters, the Governors, SSG, Sherborne Heads of Department (twice), and latterly a delegation from HMC. Henry's family roots lie in the world of choreography: he rose to these challenges magnificently; even, one suspects, with relish.

10 Moreover, every year he would address Fourth Form parents on the vi~i s situdes of adolescen~e, outlining with total clanty the pressures to which P.J.McK. their sons might find themselves exposed. Year after year, his words, meticulously rehears~d b~t 1990 - 1994 unostentatiously delivered, were devastatmg m their impact, particularly on the assembled Mums. The pulpit too made frequent demands. So often pr~ach ~t neig~b~mrin_g did he Sherborne, o; the There are few members of the teaching girls' schools, that this side of his future Dllrustry is profession who are offered a job befor.e a vacancy clearly well in hand. And can any Sherborne master becomes available - but that was certainly the case have more frequently donned black tie for the with Peter McKee. Coming to Sherborne on unremitting round of Sixth Form dinners? teaching practice while he converted his Cambridge Then there was the choir, and Henry's firm law degree into a mathematics teaching commitment to tutoring simultaneously in two qualification, it was immediately obvious that here Houses, Abbeylands and Harper. Both benefitted was a talent and an enthusiasm that could not be greatly from his sensitivity, clear-sightedness and lost. The last four years have shown just how good reaUsm. Active too on the sporting front, he ran the a decision that was. Squash initially with help, subsequently by himself se~eral ~ith When asked why he changed from the law into for years. He also assisted the teaching, Peter would reply that teaching was fun. Swimming team, giving Anthony ~allers~einer ~nd And fun was certainly what he made all aspects of later myself the benefit of perunent 1f seanng his teaching. He enjoyed setting his pupils criticism. His elevation to membership of R.A.S.C. mathematical tasks which involved inquiry, was a fitting tribute. . research, logic and trial and error, so that the b?ys Deft footwork was required to keep so much in would discover for themselves the mathematical play. It was a bold move in 1992 to begin an ~.A. principles which under-pinned ~he task. T~aching course from King's College, London. The stram ?f for Peter is always based on the idea of leading out extra-mural research, with weekly classes m ideas from the pupils. He applied the same London was sometimes visible, but ever the most principles to the successful Prefects' Course which companionable of men, Henry made many friends he ran, giving the responsibility to the new prefects there. He looks forward to completing his to work out their own solutions to problems, to dissertation in the near future. think ahead so that they could anticipate potential Another important feature of recent years was problems, to work together as a team and to work the armual trip to the Oxford Theology Conference together with the staff, providing careful guidance for Sixth-Formers. Henry's belief that he should when it was necessary and strong encouragement all take all A level theologians, not just Oxbridge the time. candidates, remained firm in the face of maj~r Sport, too, was fun and never f~ from the challenges, but it would require the pen of Rabelais centre of his world. Coaching sport in all three or the canvas of Hieronymus Bosch to do full te.rms took up endless hours of his time - but it justice to these expeditions. was time which he always gave up with pleasure for Around the town his absence will be he greatly enjoyed helping boys to maximise their noted - the WI Market, the China Gallery, the sporting potential. The Junior Colts Rugby team, Rose and Crown at Trent, all will miss him. One the Under-14 Hockey team and various Athletics trace remains visible: at the Lime of writing the teams all benefitted from his unceasing green Austin Minor, faithful as a co~versatio?­ encouragement, his professional skill and h!s opener if in other resp.ects unreliable, s1!s eternal enthusiasm. And it is his energy and his still outside Westcott, a reminder of that last, epic enthusiasm which are his most apparent night. . . . characteristics. Where most people might have ft combines energy and elegance m equal thought that they were already doing enough, Peter measure ... the boundaries of convention are was busy playing Rugby for the town, or Hockey or challenged, questioned and frequently c~ossed ... Cricket for Bow House, or agreeing to go on CCF the enrichment that results falls little short Field Days, or accompanying holiday expeditions. of enlightenment, however provocative this may And he enjoyed it all. be ... These words, originally written to celebrate As the School House resident Tutor and as a the effect of the Ballets Russes in the first decades Tutor in Wallace House, Peter gave endless hours of the century, may serve equally as a description of of his time to watch his tutees play in matches, or in the Sherborne Theology Department over the last concerts or to act in plays - but above all he was fifteen years. In Paul Carling it found its Diaghilev, always ready to talk and to listen to his tutees, its Fokine and its Bakst, but in Henry Pryse, an encouraging them with suggestions and questions, ineffable Nijinsky. to think through issues and thus to be able to see for themselves what their best course of action M.J.8.

11 should be. The glib ready answer was never his he regaled his colleagues with tales of his holidays style. Popular, but not populist, he had high spent in Paris, Prague, Austria and of purchasing standards and he expected the boys to have the carpets in Marrakesh. same and thus neither sloppy thought nor sloppy Simon organised the Badminton with dress were allowed to go by unnoticed. But, above enthusiasm and ran the Colts Tennis team - and all, he cared for those around him - and his later the 2nds. Having struggled in vain to pass his concern for the well-being of others is his most driving test, he took up running, and he left central characteristic. Sherborne one of the fittest members of the Peter was at home at Sherborne. He immersed Common Room. himself in all that be did and was equally at home In his first year at Sherbom e, Simon tutored in on the games fields, at concerts, in the Powell Lyon and in School House, and he then became Theatre (in the section from where the loudest resident tutor at The Digby. He was a caring, laughter could always be heard), in speaking to the conscientious tutor, concerned to bring the best out School (as in the sensitive talk he gave on how the of every individual, generous with his time, and troubles in Northern Ireland had affected him and highly respected. his family), in School House, in Bow House or in Simon was prepared to speak his mind, and this the Digby Tap. It was a pleasure to work with him did not always lead to a comfortable life. He is not and we all know that he will do very well indeed at quick to compromise and his principles are firmly Eton. But like all homes, we hope that he will come held. The decision that he took to bring about a back and visit us often. radical change of direction in his life was typical of the man. He is an extremely talented linguist and is S.D.A.M. keen to make the fullest use of his varied skills. During his stay at Sherborne he made an ample and energetic contribution to the work and life of the community, and we wish him all happiness and success in coping with the fresh challenges now before him. S.N.H. P.T.S. 1991 - 1994

Few schoolmasters are as ready as Simon Hollands to practise what they preach: for his deep M.J.L.B. fondness for French culture has taken him to Paris, and a life much removed from the one which he 1992 - 1994 enjoyed during his three years at Sherborne. Recently graduated from Durham, Simon threw himself into his teaching with relish. In some respects he was a traditionalist: he must have been Magnus Bashaarat was only at Sherborne for one of the very few teachers in the country to teach two years. However, the impression he made on Seventeenth-century drama as the basis of A level those he taught and tutored, and those of us who course work, in an age which favours the modern knew him as a friend and colleague in Bow House, and the practical. In other ways he quickly showed will be remembered far longer. himself to be ready to experiment and to innovate; J find it difficult to list his qualities and he was impatient with courses and approaches that achievements, for they are many and varied. His he considered stodgy or inappropriate. He expected previous experience as a journalist certainly gave high standards of himself and of others, and in the him a broader perspective than one based solely on classroom he quickly won the respect of all those academic environments, something of invaluable whom he taught. His ingenuity and creativity found benefit. As a teacher he worked hard to ensure that further expression in Victimes du devoir, which he both the gifted A level student and the weaker co-produced in 1992. GCSE candidate realised their potential. He always His departure put an end (for the time being) to covered the necessary material, but at the same time the study of Russian at Sherborne. Opportunities to strove to make his lessons innovative and teach this language proved frustratingly few, but enjoyable. In 1993 all of his Fifth Form bottom set the visit to Moscow and St. Petersburg that Simon passed English and English Literature (the first time organised in July 1992 delighted and inspired all for a number of years), and many a borderline those who took pan. He made memorable con­ A level candidate owes his final higher grade to tributions to Art trips to Amsterdam and Paris, and Magnus' motivation and guidance.

12 He gained the respect and friendship of the boys he tutored in Wallace and Abbey. He revamped the Who holds the Wildman, insisting on boys taking a more active r61e in debates. He played and refereed football, and used his skill and enthusiasm in the Summer to coach cricket, first with Mini Colts Band ultimately Junior Colts A. He chose the highly ambitious and Gardner Merchant has the solution. Thanks to our event demanding play. The Golden Masque of Agamemnon, for his Sherbome directoral debut (with Wallace House), which received considerable acclaim, and followed it with a display of versatility by treading the boards himself as Vladimir in Waiting for Godot. Acting alongside him was one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences record for that I have ever had on stage. Such a list, in such a short space of time, touches on the depth and versatility of his talents, without beginning to do him real justice. A person of both energy and panache, Magnus caterer, Town & County, we've panicipated in the last 35 knows what he wants from life and will not readily accept less. This said, he is also someone who knows not to take life too seriously. I remember him just as much for our conversations on the merit of Graeme Hick's batting at No. 3 for England as I do for discussions on contemporary poetry. The ace serves at School has lost a gifted teacher. Many of us miss the man. However, the opportunity he has accepted is a logical and indisputable new challenge. We send him our best wishes, both for his future career at Eton, and for his marriage to Camilla at the end of the year. Championships. lvanisevic has the answer. with 206 aces G.T.W.R. Wimbledon?

C.M. In 7 matches in 1992. 1993 - 1994

The chink in the English department armour created by the appointment of Patrick Haigh as Housemaster of Wallace House was filled by the presence for one year among us of Cass Miskin. She came as a graduate of the University of London and ~~'ll;fl-. from the demands of her young family in Bearninster. Her task was not easy, but she was anxious to gain experience of teaching before going on to further training. She worked very hard to * ~ provide a fresh approach for all her classes, even finding time and energy to help with the production of The Digby's House play. We are grateful for her GARDNER MERCHANT effort.s and wish her well for the future. R.G.P. Quality service worldwide

13 Obiter Dicta

R.G.: 'You've got to learn to use one ear for listening with and one ear for writing with - I can do it!'

A.C.M. (complaining about the pictures of young ladies on display in the Fourth-form day­ room): 'I was showing parents around, and I cou.ldn 't take my eyes off them!' C. A. J. Martin: 'I like Mr Lapping - he's a dude!'

M.A.W.: 'Women are not sex objects - apparently.'

U.E.D.: The grammar in these pieces of work was very poor.' Boy: 'How was mine?' U.E.D.: 'You.rs was just as worse.'

M. A. M. Buchanan: 'Sir, what do you mean by " Romantic effect"?' R.G.P.: 'My wife often says to me: "You're very unromantic." What does she mean by this?' Boy (to M.G.S.): 'Never mind sir, we're mates.' M.G.S.: 'No, Waaler, we are not!'

A.J.H.: 'If I look at you again, you've got a red.' S.Tr.: 'Most A level questions have no answers.' U.E.D.: (frantically attempting to erase image cast by overhead projector from white board): 'Why will this not come off'?'

14 Commemoration Music

Chamber Concerts

As is now customary, there were two chamber inevitable blurring, given a ten-second echo, did concerts at Commem: Friday's in the Abbey and not destroy the overall phrasing, or blunt the attack Saturday's in the BSR. The first was dominated by of these excellent musicians. Not to be outdone, Ian group items whilst the second concentrated on solo Davies' Chamber Orchestra contributed two pieces. Many of the performers, being in the Upper equally well-known pieces, Albinoni's Adagio in G Sixth, were playing or singing for the last time in minor, played with great passion, and Vivaldi's the School, a fact which always lends a bitter-sweet Concerto in A minor for Two Violins, with Guy air to these concerts. Martland and Andrew Lewis as the fluent and well­ The Abbey concert began with the Brass Group, matched soloists. After a brief Alleluia by Randall conducted by David Shead, playing two familiar Thompson given by the Chamber Choir, the pieces, Copland's Fanfare for the Common Man Chamber Orchestra and Choir joined forces in a and Prokofiev's 'Wedding' from the Lieutenant superb performance of Mozart's Missa Brevis in D, Kije Suite. Both works resounded splendidly K.194. This little gem of a piece, written when the throughout the building, the Abbey's acoustics composer was still only seventeen, requires great enhancing the general effect - somehow the precision in performance - and received it under

16 Paul bllis's careful direction. The voices, provided First of all we played Shostakovich's Festival on this occasion by members of the Chapel Choir Overture, followed by the Piano Concerto No. l in and girls from St. Antony's-Leweston, blended D flat major by Prokofiev. Glyn Jones was the beautifully, and there were some exquisite solos. soloist - he was outstanding. Piano music of this The BSR concert, as has been said, featured period is exceptionally technically demanding in performances by many leavers, whose versatility mastery of the notes, if nothing else. However, he was exemplified by Glyn Jones and Tom Olsen, also provided his own interpretation of the music, who opened the programme by playing clarinet and which avoided taking rubato to its outermost limits, bassoon respectively in a Trio by LickJ (with much to the orchestra's relief! Sadly, the orchestra William McNeill, horn), and later joined forces did not have a great deal of time to prepare this once again, this time on piano and double bass, in a piece, and more would have come in useful. stylish performance of Brubeck's Unsquare Dance, The two individual pieces could be described as with the inimitable Paul Fowler on drums. ln 'lollipops' in all but their timing in the concert. between these two items we heard Jon ConJin's Rachmaninov's Vocalise/Air on a G String was lively flute playing in a concerto by Pergolesi, arranged for orchestra by JRK, and we also played Andrew Cruise's sonorous account of Handel's Judex from Mors et Vita by Gounod. Both were 'Arm Ye Brave' from Judas Maccabeus and very enjoyable to play - particularly with both Charles Lees' bravura trumpet playing in the litue­ First and Second orchestras combined. For the known concerto by Neruda. The sole Lower Sixth audience, the grandiose sound of 128 instruments performer, Daniel Brazier, gave a stunning cannot have failed to impress. interpretation of Chopin's Etude in C minor, Finally, we played Dvoi'ak's Symphony No 8 in Op.25 no. 12, and the concert was nicely rounded G. It contained various types of music, to suit all :>ff by the Chamber Orchestra's polished tastes. We bad played parts of it at the earlier ')erformance of the first movement of Mozart's Christmas Concert, and it was a fittingly great work C::ine Kleine Nachtmusik, ensuring that members of to end yet another Shirburnian orchestral year. ;he large and appreciative audience would go off Apart from the intense heat generated by both happily humming to the next play, exhibition or audience and instrumentalists alike and almost total concert! lack of ventilation, it was a great pleasure to be in that concert. The orchestra played exceptionally well, interpreting challenging music with grace and musicianship. The combination of the afore­ mentioned musical delights, a clear summer's evening and even the assistance of 'Wine Rack' made it an outstanding success.

Adrian McAllister

Orchestral Concert

This year the Commemoration Orchestral Concert had a refreshingly new feel about it - this was chiefly due to the fact that it was, in the truest sense of the phrase, an orchestral concert. That is to say, it included an Overture, a Concerto, a Symphony and two other individual pieces. Also, by a miracle of organisation on the part of JIWD, both First and Second orchestras managed to fit !nto the BSR, thanks to some highly sophisticated seating plans. It must also be said that this concert was the result of a solid year's work. With the exception of the Concerto, everything else had been performed previously at various other concerts. Thus it was an enjoyable experience for the orchestra to end the year - and, for some, their time at Sherborne - with a full-blown climax of this sort.

17 'Born Stompers' Tour of Jersey - '94

The Sherbome School Jazz Band, recently drummer, Paul Fowler, by playing the drums renamed the 'Borne Stompers', completed an during sets when Paul needed a rest. exceptionally successful visit to Jersey thjs Summer. When the band wasn't playing music, the boys The party of seven Upper Sixth-formers was led by took part in many typical fun activities, such as Mr. Skinner, who actually played keyboard in the visiting the famous zoo, clubs and even France on a band himself. boat trip! A lot of the time, during the one week A variety of venues tested the group's ability to they had in Jersey, was spent at the place at which hold the interest of a large crowd, the highlight they were staying: an old fort, almost derelict, performances of the whole tour being at the Royal which literaUy hung over the sea. This was an ideal Jersey Yacht Club and at the Old Court House Inn. location for barbecues and swimming, but The Yacht Club was the better of the two venues, unfortunately was quite far away from any lively drawing a crowd of at least 250 people. Here, areas. In fact, the fort was so primitive that the classic jazz was played in two slots of band had to provide its own water tank. So, with approximately one hour each, after which the band the likes of Paul Fowler, Peter Burden, Ken mixed with the crowd for celebrations which lasted Yabunaka, Tom Olsen, Glyn Jones, Guy Martland until 1.00 a.m. The programme at the Old Court and Charlie Lees, Mr. Skinner found hlmself House Inn was very similar to this, except that the driving the minibus to St. Helier, the capital of band played in an open plan terrace, overlooking Jersey, many times during the visit. the harbour. The whole trip was organised by N6elle Stevens, Also on tour with the band were Mrs. Skinner a resident of Jersey. She helped with the provision and her two sons. She proved invaluable to the of venues (ten in all), right down to the gaining of band, with her excellent cooking, washing of permUsion from the Island Development Commit­ clothes and acting as nurse in emergencies. Adam tee for the use of La Crete Fort. Skinner, the cider of the two sons, and a pupil in the School, also proved verv useful to the Nick Stevens

18 Friday Lunchtime Concerts

As in previous years, the series continued only to lines, on one occasion rather dramatically. On 13th half-term to allow space for final exam preparation May, piano solos, strings and percussion blended as well as the build-up to the Commem. concerts. happily enough, though one or two pieces could Four in number, the recitals maintained the good have benefitted from more rehearsal: violinist standards and pleasant atmosphere which has Robin Carvell's Debussy (La plus que lente) and characterised these events throughout the year. Paul Marshall's Badings (piano Sonatine) were the The first concert, on 6th May, was the one best. The following week brought strings, piano, specialised event, being devoted entirely to singers. choir and jazz band together in a melee of styles This was a remarkable presentation, since the and moods, to which Adrian McAllister's per­ varying vocal standards did not seem to interfere formance of Brahms' Rhapsody in G minor lent a with the musical projection of individual items real sense of conviction wh.ich ranged from Dowland to Bernstein and The final concert (27th May) was billed as a beyond. This was largely due to the personality of woodwind recital, though unusually so. After a James Ottaway whose r61e at the piano com­ performance of Blue Twilight for clarinet choir, the· municated both energy and sensitivity, and who audience was directed to repair to The Courts - an succeeded in - there is no better word for it appropriate injunction - where the concert and - 'inspiring' his pupils to do likewise. Schoolboy indeed the series was to be wound up in stirring voices are uncertain at the best of times, but there fashion: Pipe Major Brian Shanahan's team of were few uncomfortable moments and many pipers and drums· playing a selection of popular instances where the musical intentions were Scottish Tunes . . . skilfully underlined. There were no fewer than eleven solo items plus a concluding 'close harmony' 'For nought can cheer the heart sae wee! ensemble. As can a canty Highland reel.' The remaining concerts were 'miscellaneous', in that the programmes crossed instrumental family K.R.W.

19 Corscombe Chamber Concert

On 7th May, the Sher borne School Chamber of food and wine provided by the residents of Orchestra gave a concert in St. Mary's Church, Corscombe, we heard Albinoni's moving Adagio Corscombe, for the third successive year. As in Sol Minore. David Bednall's organ solo was before, this was a most pleasant occasion. The followed by some fine violin playing in the welcome given to boys and parents alike by the Concerto in La Minore per 2 Vio/ini, Archi & parishioners is unvaryingly warm and friendly. Cemba/o by Albinoni's contemporary and fellow The audience was obviously appreciative of the Venetian, Antonio Vivaldi. The soloists were Guy time and effort devoted by the performers Martland, who had emerged from retirement for 'ardent, young, and trim,' and the members of the occasion after six years with the Chamber the orchestra, one felt, enjoyed performing in the Orchestra, and Andrew Lewis, who has ably lovely little church. succeeded him as leader. The programme opened with Purcell's The final item was the lively and now quite Overture from The Gordian Knot Untied. We familiar pizzicato of Simon Skinner's Vita Beata. were then transported firmly from the seventeenth The concert was further enlivened by Ian Davies' century to the twentieth with Hindemith's Zwei relaxed and witty introduction to the pieces and Stucke, Op. 44. David Bednall, whose repertoire performers. continues to expand apace, then gave a splendid The connection between Sherborne and rendering of Handel's Organ Concerto in F Corscombe is a close one, going back at least to major. Later in the programme he also played an the eighth century, when Cuthred, King of the organ solo, Hymne d'action de grace, by the blind West Saxons, gave 'Coruscombe' to the Abbey French religious composer, Jean Langlais. Church of Sherborne. It.is good to see the ancient Even those of us in the audience verging on tie renewed in this inspired fashion, and J am sure musical illiteracy could hardly fail to recognise the that the Chamber Orchestra, Corscombe residents next item , the Allegro from Mozart's Eine Kleine and visiting parents will all look forward to many Nachtmusik. more annual concerts in St. Mary's Church. After the interval, during which both orchestra and audience were sustained by a generous supply Philip Clark

SYCOSS '94

The first set of the night was Dogg Pound, a For the next band, the dark stage was changed hardcore rap three-piece, which started the crowd into a living room, complete with a sofa and house a'romping and a'stomping. The combined lyrics of plants. The atmosphere was now fresh and natural, Phil Katibi, Bash Bakari and Jamie Walker erupted full of groovy people dressed in groovy clothes. from the stage, rousing the audience to fever pitch, These were Sunga, a rock and blues funk band backed up by heavy bass-lines, some fancy which settled the crowd and made them move to footwork and regular 'groin clutching'. The tunes their near-perfect rendition of Foxy lady, sung by were well known songs which the group sang in the ever-grinning Chris Martin. As Henry Wood their own style and which worked so well that the beat away at the drums, eyes closed and seemingly crowd sang along almost as soon as they entered the in a hypnotic state, riffs-a-plenty were supplied by BSR. In years gone by it was almost a tradition at Ben Laidlow, Gav Reece-Smith and Simon Clark, Sherborne to ignore the first band (too busy our very own hippy child. Nor did they rely on talking, or just plum embarrassed). Dogg Pound, Hendrix, as they played several of their own songs, however, captured our attention at once and had us all in a congenial mood, to an attentive and shouting along right until the last drum beat. The appreciative crowd. Feast, Arthur and Charlotte audience sated, Phil launched into a final went down a treat as the band invited people to memorable free-wheel, rapping straight off the top reside on their sofa and talk to their plants. Rob of his head to the delight and growing astonishment Eaglesham and Dom Emley made a special guest of the crowd. The group demonstrated what made appearance on one song as the band bonded SYCOSS so successful: confidence, enthusiasm and magnificently with the crowd. arousing many cohesion amongst themselves and a rapport with a happy feelings. Bunga's set was vibrant and screaming multitude beneath them. enthusiastic, providing a wide range of songs that were all well received. 20 Td : (0935) 813355

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Hated Mass, a hardcore metal band, !Ook 10 the stage for the final set. The lights were dimmed and ~ CABS ~-1 the strobe was activated. The imposing appearance of the band, led by Paul Fowler on vocals, soon & COURIER SERVICE had the crowd in a mood of screaming excitement. Tom Przedzymirski thumped the bass line through shaking speakers until his hands bled, as Nick Stevens played a galvanising lead guitar. Ralph 0935 816620 Cree was entirely animated at the back on the drums, exerting himself as much as Paul, who leapt and bounded aggressively about the from of the DISTANCE NO OBJECT stage. Their stage presence was electric as they played through songs by Pantera, Sepultura and Biohazard, not all of which were familiar 10 the J crowd. This presented no problem, as the quality of THE playing was so high and the songs were so hard and heavy that the audience responded feverishly to it all. Hated Mass also played four of their own ABBEY songs, indistinguishable in type from the cover versions and just as popular. As they finished early and the energetic 'mosh pit' clamoured for more, BOOKSHOP they played encore after encore, each one received by screams and waving hands and heads. Their THE PARADE - 74-76 CHEAP STREET final song left the crowd sweating and satisfied. SHERBORNE' - DORSET - DT9 3BL Hated Mass were cheered off. It would be sad indeed if the annual SYCOSS concert were to be discontinued. h provides both a Sherborne (0935) 812367 display of Sherborne's alternative music talen1, which is far too infrequently exhibited anyway, and Supplier of Books and Stationery a far more healthy Saturday evening than those spent sitting mindlessly in front of the box. Chits accepted - Quick book-order service Andy Crouch

21 School Productions

The Commem. Play

TERRA NOVA

The play is based on the story of Captain Scott's badly!). But to provide an insight into the character expedition to the South Pole, charting the team's of an ambitious man torn between his conscience, courageous journey in the face of great physical his duty, his desire and society's expectations of and psychological adversity. Against this backdrop him was a challenge to which he was more than it deals with Captain Scott's personal and public equal. struggle against the Antarctic, Amundsen and, One aspect of the play which was portrayed with most challengingly, himself, to extend the exceptional skill was the sense of team spirit and boundaries of the known world. cameraderie between the men. From the moment The choice of this play, for what was essentially they staggered on at the start it was as though they the School House play dressed in Comrnem. had actually been through the tremendous hardship clothing, was for me a strange one. Terra Nova is a of the Antarctic together. This was due to play which relies to an extraordinary degree on some good acting all round from Edward Gibbons considerable acting and directing talent on the part (Dr. Edward Wilson), Andrew Mosse (Captain of those involved if it is to work at all as a play, Jet Lawrence Oates). Jonathan Stark (Petty Officer alone work well. It would be a challenge for a Edgar Evans), Richard Tutt (Lieutenant Henry professional company. So for an amateur cast, four Bowers) and Tom Robinson. The performances of of whom were making their acting debuts, with Tutt and Mosse were fundamental in providing the limited time, it is all the more daunting. How fluidity and humour: Mosse played Oates well, as teenage public school boys could be expected to the ex-army officer with his bravado, obligatory portray realistically the diverse and extreme war wound (a dodgey hip in this case) and war emotions that the men, on the verge of death after stories. Tutt as Bowers interacted very well with months of trekking through the harsh Antarctic him, allowing both to revel in the opportunity for environment, must have felt, I don't know. This unbridled cheerful sarcasm. task was then made more difficult by the fact that it The openmg scene of the second act had to be done in the middle of the notoriously lazy encapsulated, for me, all that was good in the play: Summer term; so the boys had to tear themselves good acting, good use of props and good directing. from the joys of School House croquet, the Here the team is at dinner celebrating the romance of the cricket field, or even the stifling completion of their journey. The atmosphere is heat of a classroom to come into the Powell light and jovial, especially in contrast to the painful Theatre and the sub-zero temperature of a barren endurance that has preceded it. They order dinner, wasteland! but, after a happy time of laughter and Given all this, 1 felt it was ultimately a reminiscence, it does not arrive. Instead, in an remarkably good production, which improved with effective use of dramatic irony, Charles Perry, each performance. Special mention must be given playing Amundsen now, having been the waiter to Tom Robinson who played Scott. This was a earlier, arrives to bring them back to reality. They very demanding rale, due both to his complex haven't actually finished the expedition, rather it nature and to the fact that he was on stage for the has all been Scott's imagination taunting him, so duration of the play. The task of remembering all they all change out of evening dress, on stage, back his lines and the stage directions was Herculean, into their polar clothing and remove the table­ bearing in mind also that this was his GCSE term cloth, revealing the sledge underneath. The contrast (though his grades didn't appear to suffer too of mood, of language, of emotions and of physical

22 condition between the Antarctic and civilisation is The acting, for all its strengths, also contained very effective in producing a feeling of frustration some weaknesses. For instance, there was real and impending doom. The devices of sledge and potential for some very powerful emotions to actor around which the drama unfolds are emerge from Scott's relationship with KathJeen, but ingenious and shocking, increasing the sense of these never did. Had the conflict between his pessimism which grows as the play progresses. ambition and his love been played up a bit more the But the pity was that this was the only scene play would have benefitted enormously. As it was, which worked really well. The rest of the play Scott sat rather peculiarly on the fence, and we are suffered from being a bit too disjointed and left onJy with the baule between duty and ambition. abstract. The basic structure of the play is that from It seems inconceivable that a man as remarkable as the two reference points at the beginning and end Scott could remain as indifferent to his wife as when Scott is writing his journal, we are thrown seemed to be the case. IL would have been better for into our own bizarre journey through the mind of him to have either loved her passionately and to Scott as he relives the long months of the have been torn apart that way or to have hated her expedition. We are thrown from place to place; one for her inability to understand him. This problem minute we are with the team on the way to the pole was not the fault of either Robinson or Sarah and the next we are with Scott and his wife in their Rossiter. Both performed very well, particularly London home or with him as he addresses the Sarah Rossiter; however, both were too young to Geographical Society or as he speaks with cope with the difficulties of such a relationship. I Amundsen or even alone with him and his felt that if they were going to get physical on stage thoughts. Neither time nor place remain constant they should either have done it properly or not at for any great length of time. This fragmentation all. There can be nothing worse than watching a aims to represent Scott's tortured mind as he is love scene done half-heartedly or self-consciously. constantly haunted by his memory and by Other ways could have been found to develop the Amundsen. However, with a few exceptions, it strength of their attachment which would have served only to slow down what was a very long worked a lot better. play; I felt that a few more liberties could have been Yet I wouldn't want to end on such a taken with the text and certain aspects (such as the disparaging note, as the acting certainly was in deaths and agonies of the last weeks) could have general very good. The performance of Jonathan either been dealt with in a more condensed way or Stark, as Evans, was outstanding. The scene in left out completely to give a bit more pace and which Evans goes mad and dies of exposure in the allow the themes of Scott's mind to flow more arms of Scott, having threatened to kill everyone, powerfully. will remain with me for some time. Stark managed Charles Perry played Amundsen well, despite the task of a difficult role with skill and realism his tendency to be a bit too cold and mechanical. which was made all the more amazing by his age He both looked and acted the part of the and the fact that he had only had two weeks of Norwegian who has a completely different outlook rehearsals (as Philip Cramp had unfortunately on life (and set of moral values to go with that) to broken his leg). This added some real-life drama that of Scott. It is through their conflict, which and heroics (English style) in the face of adversity transposes time and space, that some interesting to the play as the cast salvaged it just in time for ideas about Victorian and colonial values are Commemoration. raised. Amundsen's line summarising the ridiculous The set was very effective, given the nature of nature of the British morality is a memorable one; the play. It made no attempt at realism with he says, concerning 'the game' (which the British polystyrene snow and the like, which was a relief. constantly advocate playing): 'Playing the game Rather the backdrop was simple, just painted black means treating your dogs like gentlemen and your and white to create a cold atmosphere. The lack of gentlemen like dogs'. It is through powerful lines permanent props on stage aided the changes in like this and 'Success is a bitch. You can grab her location no end. Mrs. Frith-Powell deserves and have her if your plan is right - and that's all. recognition for her great efforts in this and the Not because you made her swoon with your virtue.' production of a remarkably life-like sculpture of Amundsen undermines Scott completely, con­ Scott. AJthough there were a few minor technical stantly sapping his mental reserves. The contrast hitches such as the failure of a cigar to light and the between his successful ambition, unfettered by stubbornness of the tent in erection, this side of the moral constraints and Scott's noble failure is great. production worked well. Anton de Braal also The entire English attitude of romantic arrogance is produced some interesting lighting effects such as put to the test and is found wanting. The preference the 'Southern Lights', which helped greatly in the for the poetic and tragic is exposed as being merely creation of the Antarctic environment. a glorification and escape from reality. This was Dr. Hamon, the Director, and School House one very pleasing aspect of the play, as it broadened can be proud of a good production of what was a the issues from the personal to the global, relating very demanding, and challenging, play. the man Scott to the wider situation of the collapse of the Empire. Tim Ambrose

23 WAITING FOR GODOT

A recurrent problem within the pages of this and the less dependent. From starting the play as a journal has always been the natural reluctance of cheerfully charming idiot, he reveals more and reviewers to allow their discerning critical eye to more of his mental resilience and scientific overrule their good-natured sympathies for any inquisitiveness until he finally allows his deep­ school production. The result of this has been an rooted depression and contempt both for Gogo and ocean of presentations judged to have been 'very himself to come forth and spill out in one brief, good', in which were submerged a handful that stuttering speech at the end. perhaps did not merit this accolade. My task in Bashaarat was captivating whilst Robinson was reviewing Stuart Hargreaves' interpretation of combative. Their coupling was an inspired piece of Samuel Beckett's Waiting/or Godot is, thankfully, casting, not least because their approaches to acting very easy. It was exceptional. were so evidently different. Robinson seemed to The play, on the other hand, is anything but regard his part as a challenge - creating something easy, both for actor and audience. The script entirely new - whilst Bashaarat was the master of demands a high level of acting in order to achieve understatement and realism. absolute realism, so that its bemusing, abstTact Yet this production was far from a two-man symbolism can function comprehensibly. This level show. Pozzo and Lucky were a further pair of skill was, to all intents and purposes, achieved by somehow oddly dependent upon each other. If ever the cast of five. someone was born to play a role, it was George Stuart Hargreaves, as director, had given the Malim as Pozzo. Pozzo, the self-proclaimed two central roles of Estragon and Vladimir to landlord upon whose land Gogo and Didi await members of staff, Giles Robinson and Magnus Godot, was an abhorrent character, yet irresistibly Bashaarat respectively - perhaps unadventurous, amusing. Hairless and vicious, equipped with whip or perhaps realistic, for the parts were both and breath-freshener, Malim was delightfully complex and lengthy in the extreme. On stage for repulsive; contemptuous of all around him, he was almost two and three-quarter hours, the two played mercilessly cruel to his ageing slave, Lucky, (played the parts of vagrants 'Gogo' and 'Didi' with total by Nick de Mestre). Granted some of the best lines commitment and exhaustive concentration. ('Dance, misery.'), Malim extracted all he could Essentially devoid of plot, the play thrives on the from possibly the most inexplicable and bizarre relationship and exchanges - at once childish and character on stage amidst the confusion. He profound - between two tramps, awaiting displayed also an excellent range, required in one salvation and a rendezvous with Mr. Godot. From scene to rage and shout his way to dominance and the start, the two struck such an ambiguous chord in the next to appear blind and helpless, writhing as to maintain the interest of the audience Like a new-born rat. throughout. They complemented each other, Nick de Mestre has now been acting for a long balancing characteristics, manner isms and time at Sherborne, yet not until this play did he prevalent emotions. really stretch and excel himself in a part that might Giles Robinson, the more diminutive of the pair, easily have been totally ignored by the audience. compromised with an underlying aggression and Required to be spat upon, kicked and near­ anger that broke through, often unprovoked, in the strangled by a harsh noose forever around his neck, style of a spoilt child. Gogo's childishness was Lucky was a pathetic creature. As an actor, he was furthered by an intriguing fear of solitude and the asked to dribble and deliver one entirely dark which hinted at his dependence upon his nonsensical speech and thus the temptation would friend and companion, Didi. surely have been to overact and buy the audience's Vladimir was a strange character. Curiously attention. De Mestre should be congratulated on subservient to his friend's whims and impatience, keeping his performance so low-key as to make it one always felt, however, that it was he in control unavoidable.

24 Indeed, perhaps much of the success of tbis Thus, this production of Beckett's modern production rested on unselfish acting. No-one classic was a huge success. Its worth lay not in attempted to steal the limelight and therefore elaborate sets or costumes but in its cast and their everyone did. performances. One further aspect of excellence was the movement. At times, it seemed that the stage was a Vladimir: 'Yes, in this immense confusion one thing setting more for dance than drama. Stuart alone is clear. We are waiting for Godot to Hargreaves had obviously worked very hard with come-' Estragon: 'Ah!' his actors oo fluidjty of movement and expression of character through physical attributes. The Pozzo: 'Help!' choreography of Robinson and Bashaarat seemed to add an extra dimension at times. Phil Harvey

The Sherborne Girls' School Play

PYGMALION

After being asked to review George Bernard Colonel Pickering, who had just come back from Shaw's Pygmalion, memories of the Sherborne serving in lndia and Chris Martin, always the focus Prep School production, the film starring Audrey of attention oo any stage, as the articulate Alfred Hepburn and studying Ovid's Latin text in the Fifth Doolittle, who seemed more in nt!ed of lessons from Form, all came flooding back to me. So you can Professor Higgins than his daughter. Although this imagine why I felt a sinking feeling in my heart at part was slightly overplayed, his words being at the prospect of having to watch the play, not times almost incomprehensible, he certainly allowing my mind to wander during the perfor­ provided the funniest moments in the production, mance, and then having to write a review on it. such as when bargaining with the Professor over the However, I must admit that on the whole I was price of his daughter. pleasantly surprised, most aspects of the play A lot of trouble and detail went into recreating contributing to an enjoyable evening. the atmosphere of nineteenth-century London. The The plot is fairly simple and known by most, costumes were effective in portraying the poverty or which made it easy to follow and left no confusion wealth of the characters. The make-up com­ amongst the audience. The story centres around plemented the costumes and was especially good in Eliza Doolittle, a Covent Garden flower girl, who is emphasising the transformation of Eliza Doolittle. taken on by Professor Higgins, an expert in However, the detailed and elaborate sets, especially phonetics, with the intention of transforming her Professor Higgins' drawing room, cost the into a young lady who would not seem out of place production in continuity and smoothness - three in a high-society gathering. However, com­ intervals being really too many. Although I think, plications arise, which prove an obstacle to Miss to be fair, a detailed set was fairly essential, not Doolittle's social elevation. only for recreating the nineteenth-century The portrayal of the characters was on the whole atmosphere, but also to bolster what might be very convincing. Gemma Barnett as Eliza Doolittle considered a fairly weak plot, giving the play more mastered the cockney accent, maintaining it substance. throughout the first two acts without lapsing into What saves this play from being just a light­ the forced upper class accent used later on, and also hearted comedy which could soon be forgotten, is several times produced some very convincing tan­ the final scene in the Professor's drawing room, trums. Professor Higgins, played by Magnus between Eliza and Professor Higgins. I fully Buchanan, was also good, especially in his change commend the director for resisting a happy ending, of character according to the person who was where the two get married, instead opting for the present - being stern to Eliza, off-hand to his split between them, with Eliza being resentful and poor housekeeper Mrs. Pearce, played by Emma quite bitter towards the Professor. The ending was Deverell, and childish when in the presence of Anna totally unexpected and provided a nice twist, Heald, who acted well as his benign but long­ dispelling any predictability and rounding off a suffering mother. Both Charles Copper and Chris funny and refreshmg play. Martin were extremely well suited to their parts, Charles Copper playing the military character of Rob Hughes

25 Professional Productions

CRIME AND PUNISHMENT Red Shift

Jonathan Holloway's stage adaptation of Fyodor play we were privileged 10 see some superb aCllng as wel' Dostoyevsky's novel, Crime and Punishment, was a very as some immensely powerful drama. Atmosphere was successful, if rather loose, interpretation of tbe work, and created by live music from a keyboard set-up to the side proved 10 be a filling sequel to !he company's previous of the stage. The use of masks and mime also added to the performances, The Hammer and Macbeth. overall dramatic effectiveness. This dramatisation had To begin with we were presented with a very simple necessarily cut down the length of the story which would set, but one that proved to be very effective. Four otherwise have lasted several hours but, apart from a few segments of wall on rollers could, by swift manoeuVTing, moments when I fell that the drama was perhaps slightly metamorphose from a street scene to Rasholnikov's overdone, in my opinion the compelling atmosphere of bedroom, and then to a police station or even a bridge. suspense mingled with fear and pain was masterfully This simplicity ensured that the action could continue contrived. almost uninterrupted. When I read the novel some years ago, I was The plot is a fascinating yet disturbing examination of profoundly moved by it and greatly disturbed. All credit the mind of a poor student, Rasholnikov, who murdered must go to Red Shift for re-creating that same feeling in an old money-lender with an axe and, tonured by what he such an original and sensitive fashion. did, entered into a psychological battle, a cat and mouse game, with Inspector Porflny Petrovich. Throughout this Ed Ferguson

26 DIARY OF A MADMAN

Graham Duff

After his highly acclaimed previous visit to Sherborne changes from the original. First, there were a number of with the play Burroughs!, Graham Dufrs most recent characters added, who were not in the book. Second, the performance in The Diary of a Madman, adapted from order of events was changed since, being in the form of a the story by the Ukrainian, Nikolai Gogol, was eagerly diary, the plot was a liule disjointed. These changes were anticipated. fitted into the story excremely well, and l would 001 have Although, by most accounts, this most recent noticed them had I not been au fail with the book. production was not quite up 10 the extremely high indeed, Duff's portrayal of Bobov, the local shopkeeper standard of Burroughs!, it was, by all other yardsticks. an and compulsive liar, was my favourite of all Duff's excellent piece of acting. The story depicts how an portrayals of the small rOles who get a brief mention in insignificant civil servant gradually turns mad. This was the diary, and he was created totally out of Duff's done through Duff's acting-out various extracts from imagination. Poprishchin's, the civil servant's, diary. In saying that Saying this brings me on to my next point, which is Poprischchin gradually turns mad, I must emphasise the that I feel that Duff's achievement in adapting and then word 'gradually', because the way Duff portrayed acting in this play single-handedly and with hardly a prop becoming more and more insane as each excerpt passed or even a break in the I hour 15 minute performance was impressively controlled. To start with, Poprishchin is cannot be underestimated. As I have already said, he just de.luded that his boss's beautiful daughter is as in love acted not only the part of Poprishchin, but also five to ten with him as he is with her; a relatively simple lovesick other assorted characrers for each of whom he put on a mistake. However, at the end of the play the poor civil different voice, showing great control of mimicry. servant, driven to distraction by his love, ends up in a Without wishing to sound clichCd, I felt that Duff's lunatic asylum believing that he is King of Spain, and performance truly was powerful and moving, and l can being beaten by the wardens for his convictions. only hope that he is able to return to Sherborne in the Concerning the adaptation of the play, which, near future. incidentally, was done by Duff himself, there were a few Tom Morgan

27 Commem. - Why?

A survey among parents, staff and boys would serried ranks of award winners in attendance. doubtless produce many different answers to the Theology was rather less ambitious. question Commem. - Why? and from many On the performing side was the Spanish play, different perspectives, from those whose expensive Calderon's El Medico de su honra. True, it wasn't fully laden cars can be seen disappearing down the the most cheerful of plays (when are Spanish plays, A30 in the early afternoon (how do they manage to ever?) but the performance was a tour de force. So get their reports so early?) to those who regret that too the 4.15 concert in the Abbey. What quality! there is so little time to do justice to the rich fare What musicianship! What enthusiasm! And to that is offered. So why? match was the concert in the evening in the Big Commemoration of King Edward VI and all Schoolroom, the Joint Sherborne Schools' that that implies apart, the aims must be to Orchestral Concert . . . Never will one hear demonstrate the quality of what goes on in the anything better played at this level than the School, to instruct, to entertain and have fun, and Prokofiev Piano Concerto as performed by Glyn to socialize - to meet old friends, make new ones, Jones. talk. So far, so good. All aims fulfilled. The opportunities to do the last of these are well Saturday of Commem. starts with its set pieces provided for by the round of House drink parties - Service, Address, Prizes, Speeches, well-ordered and lunches, the conviviality of the Art School, the events, with fine music and preaching and lavish tea that can be eaten on sunlit lawns by the speeching of quality and the right length. Nothing New Music School and to the sound of live music to do thereafter? Well, there were bagpipes in The played by enthusiastic young musicians, and by the Courts which was innovatory and stirring stuff Leavers' Ball. No problem here. (though they might have been given a bit more For the rest, it's all there for those that choose room to march up and down). There was yet more it. The Lower Sixth boy who was heard to remark good music in the Big Schoolroom - Chamber on the Thursday before Commem, 'Commem. is Music this time - and music of all sorts on the boring - there's nothing to do. Why can't we get lawn. our reports earlier and just go?' was clearly intent For those of a scientific bent (or even for those on choosing nothing. The real difficulty is fitting it who are not) there was much to see and talk about all in. Happily, much can be seen and heard on the in the Physics and Biology exhibitions, and videos Friday. The three great mainstays of every in the Geography Department. Too late by then, Commem. - the quality exhibitions of the History, alas, for Chemistry, Careers and CCF, and the C.D.T. and Art Departments, are all open then. Cricket got the squeeze too. And how sad to miss The History exhibition this year with its compelling improvisation in the Powell Theatre and the material on Sherborne in the Second World War Commem. play, Terra Nova, by all accounts was excellent and bore ample testimony to the outstanding. continuing vitality of that Department. The C.D.T. Nothing to do at Commem? That evidenUy is had the usual stunning achievements and the Art not the problem. Why Commem.? For the reasons too - on this occasion, Petr Shvetsov's exhibition given. And the aims met? Emphatically yes. Unless, was something quite special and the crowded scene of course, the aim is simply to get the Porsche down of the private view bubbled with excitement. the A30 as quickly and as e.arly as possible ... One could find a moment too for the very professional Modern Languages display and the Junius fascinating one on Music Technology with its

30 Clubs and Societies

MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY

Thanks to the generosity of the Bursar, and However, much progress has been made, even if considerable help and advice from Ian Semple and RFW and John Harriss have spent most of their Mike Pauley, a start has been made on an '00' free time modifying the work done on Wednesdays. Model Railway. By Michaelmas, 1994, over 200 feet of track had During the Michaelmas Term in 1992 a number been laid and over twenty turnouts incorporated of boys from Westcott and The Digby helped to into the layout. Sherborne c.1950, with its twelve build a structure for the base board. Perhaps more points, including a double slip, is now in position instruction in their earlier years, or more time spent waiting to be wired and signalled. Locomotives, in the T.A.C., should have been given to the art of including a School Class 'Sherborne' No. 906, putting nails in wood, and screws into a wall. 'What whose nameplate resides in Wallace House, are now is a rawlplug Sir?', 'Why do we need to glue the running on the layout. This is artistic licence, wood?' and ' Does the wood batten have to be however, as, to my knowledge, it spent most of its level?' are all questions asked in recent weeks. working life on the Kent coast line. A siding to

32 South Western Farmers has been included from the 'up' line and the rest of the layout has great PUBLIC SPEAKING opportunities for development of a country station, halts and fiddle yards. There is plenty of scope for the young electronic engineers to make circuits for controlling points, signals and making authentic noises of steam whistles. Good scenic modeUers wiU also be Alas, we had no success this year further than required as the layout develops. Considerable participation in local rounds of the English­ advance has been made this term with the advent of Speaking Union and Rotary Public Speaking two very keen modellers, Christopher Luneberg Competitions. But we fielded a record number of and Ben Prance. The very fact that a book of signal teams for both events, who worked hard to prepare box diagrams of the GWR was seen lying on the their presentation and who came within a whisker layout indicates the presence of the latter. He is, of of greater things: for the Upper Sixth, S. Fance (e), course, the son of one of the greatest signalmen of D. Kinsella-Bevan (a) and T. Cijffers (h); for the aU time, and would never, no never, go on strike!! Lower Sixth (A team), A. McAllister (b), The enthusiasts are tackling aU the aspects of the E. Havard (f) and M. Buchanan (f); Lower Sixth layout, buildings and scenery included, and I am (B team), A. Au (a), E. Dowding (e) and J. Neill very optimistic about running trains to a timetable (e); Fourth Form, A. Edouard (g), C. Warren (d) eventually. and C. Krasun (h). Better luck next year, everyone! R.F.W. H.W.R.

33 THE CHATAWAY SOCIETY

The Chataway, or Junior Debating, Society has flourished during 1994 under the guidance of Chairman Reverend Daly and President Edward Ferguson. The year has seen the discussion of many diverse topics and healthy numbers of boys have FULLY LICENSED RESTAURANT regularly attended the meetings, which take place twice a term. Topics for deliberation included heated OPENING TIMES: arguments about the existence of ghosts and a Sun-Thurs: 12.00pm-2.30pm, 6.00pm-J l.30pm debate about the 'intelligence' of keen sportsmen. Fri-Sat: 12.00pm-2.30pm, 6.00pm-12 midnight There was also the inevitable balloon debate, an annual tradition within the society where speakers assume the personalities of famous personages and HALF MOON ST. For Take-Away & Reservation their effectiveness in this is voted upon, with the SHERBORNE TEL: (0935f812455 loser from each round of voting being thrown out DORSET or817606 of 'the balloon' until only one remains. There were also discussions in a slightly more serious vein about the problems caused by increased film violence and about the place of religion in today's society. It has been an immensely entertaining year for the Society, which has just celebrated its !25th meeting, and succeeded in bringing out foto the open some previously dormant talents in public speaking. ~ ..... Edward Ferguson Chauffeur services--- Private Car & Minibus Hire Dependable Family Business Distance no Object CHRISTIAN FORUM Specialists in Airports London & Long Distances Tel: (0935) 814750 The Christian Union continues to be one of the School's larger societies, with average weekly attendance of thirty or more to hear a variety of visiting speakers, discussions and Bible Studies. There are additional activities, including a well­ attended Bible Study group for the Sixth Form, RULES held weekly with Sherborne School .for Girls. All of our activities this term, as usual, were organized by Sherborne a committee of boys - R. James (f), H. Crawford (b), T. Footner (h) and W. Hadley (f) - who, in for all your addition to engaging more than two dozen visiting Fountain Pens speakers throughout the year, organized and served Greetings Cards a buffet supper at every Thursday meeting. l am Papers grateful to many colleagues for their support, but Rubber Stamps must offer particular thanks to David Smart and Jeffrey Daly, and to the Music Department for Filofax allowing us the use of the recital room in the Old and all manner of stationery Music School. 1 Abbey Road, Sherborne H.W.R. 0935 815115

34 Travels with a Moped in Northern France

The Sentimental Traveller (meaning thereby myself) who have trove/I'd, and of which I am now sitting down to give an account as much out of necessity, and the besoin de voyager, as anyone in the class. (Laurence Sterne)

Anyone who has ever boarded a ferry, a plane, Another day, and Rich Tutt was lying next to or a train, and had to leave a place which has, in a the phone with a flannel over his brow trying to matter of weeks, become home, will know some­ ascertain just why there wasn't an insurance policy thing of the thoughts running through our minds as in the United Kingdom which would provide Break­ we watched the 'Intra Muros' of Saint Malo fade down Cover for our excursion. Luckily for the rest into the morning haze one summery day last July. of us, Rich is the most resourceful person since We had spent two weeks on a journey which none Indiana Jones, and he came up with a Plan B. So, of us will ever forget, quite unlike anything any of after a week of difficult decisions, we boarded the us had done before, or will do again. 12 p.m. Poole-Cherbourg ferry on bikes. We had Two weeks beforehand, it was a slightly set off on the first stage of our great adventure with different story. Our preparations for the travel very little idea of what lay ahead of us. grant had been complicated to say the least. Ten It is at this point perhaps, that we should explain days earlier, we were still at School, and a degree of what it was that we are writing about. Sherborne complacency had begun to set in; we had only to has a system of 'Travel Grants' which, as many of negotiate insurance and inform the moped dealer in you will be aware, are awarded to groups of boys Bournemouth of the final details and then we'd be with an idea for a journey, investigation, expedition ready to go. What could possibly go wrong? or the like, for which they need financial aid. Our

35 comprehensive and, as it turned out, fairly useless shop to son out the formalities before we went to prospectus had the brief 'To Investigate the Moped find a new campsite. It was over half an hour Culture of France'. We were awarded the hand­ before they came out. Paddy stared at the puddled some sum of £250 each, and can safely say that street as dusk began to fall, while Dave explained without it our memorable trip would never have that, apart from the lOOOf cost of hire, we were also taken place. expect to pay 5000f as a deposit on each moped. A Cherbourg, as you may well know, is a phone call, we decided, was in order. miserable city, looking like Glasgow's dockyards Thus began a week of frantic trans-Channel on a rainy day (or at least it did on this particular communication, negotiation of money transfers occasion). It was quite fortunate therefore that through French banks, rainy days, windy nights there was absolutely nowhere from which to hire and a detailed investigation into the nightlife of St. mopeds. Acting on the advice of a somewhat Malo's beautiful old city! Finally, a week after we bolshy Tourist Information Centre employee, we had arrived in Cherbourg, each with 5000f in his decided to head for somewhere 'touristy'. The only money belt, we strolled into 'Cycles Nicoles' and two places that sprang to mind were La Rochelle picked up our mopeds. Two hours later we were in and St. Malo and, after discovering the relative Titeniac - 70km south of St. Malo and only 30km train ticket prices, we hopped onto a train bound away from Rennes. It was here that we first realized for Doi de Bretagne (a small town about 20km from quite how lucky we were to have our mopeds. In the St. Malo). We spent our first night under canvas in course of one evening, we had a dozen people, not a campsite in the middle of nowhere, where the all French, looking the bikes over, obviously owner ran all the way from his office to our pitch, a impressed. We went to sleep that night in a pine considerable distance, to apologize profusely for forest, next to our tent, under a clear night's sky, overcharging us 20 centimes (2p). with our bikes resting at our feet. The next day we cycled into St. Malo, arriving in The next day saw us returning to St. Malo on time for lunch. We acquired a map and decided to what proved to be an unnecessary journey to pick investigate two addresses that we had been given in up some money for Dave which hadn't actually Cherbourg. Thus we found ourselves in La Rue de arrived. The rest of the day was spent winging our Robert Schumann, standing outside 'Cycles way down to Rennes along a long straight road as Nicoles'. It had been raining heavily all day, which the sun began to set. We arrived at a picturesque was made bearable only by the fact that we had campsite where we had to fight our way through the arrived. Our travel grant proper was about to fluffy bunnies and meadow grass to pitch our tent. begin. One of us was left 'guarding the bikes' as the It seems a shame that we only spent one night here; two French experts (and Paddy ...) went into the we left Rennes with the feeling that it could have

36 been a lot better, and everyone we spoke to 800km on the clock. Our last 48 hours in France afterwards was surprised that we had been so were spent trying to remember how to ride a unimpressed. bicycle, and saying fond farewells to the dozens of Enthralled by the sheer 'rideability' of our Swedish girls from St. Malo's two language schools mopeds, we covered in four days what we had to whom we had become very attached. On our last anticipated would take us almost the full two night, Dave and Paddy fell victim to suspect weeks. We spent two nights in Nantes, including security arrangements: both had their bicycles Bastille Day (which was actually rather stolen. It is a reflection on just how superb the disappointing) but took the days as a chance to previous two weeks had been, that even a disaster roam the streets chatting to youths whose Jives, for such as this failed to dampen our spirits for long. the moment at least, were an extension of the Our two-week excursion provided us with an exciting two weeks we were having. Dave executed unrivalled experience, which taught us more than his coursework interviews with fluency and we could ever have anticipated. After a long and confidence (Richard providing the photos). Paddy eventful summer term, having to worry about and Aidan made the most of envious looks at the where to sleep and how we would eat came as a luxurious machines and the sometimes unnecessary marked contrast; we confronted material as flamboyance with which they were ridden. When opposed to academic worries, we had escaped the the time came to leave Nantes, we set off on the somewhat pedantic cycle of routine. As we sat on dual carriageway for a 200km journey lasting a our rucksacks the next morning, watching the lines whole day, ending up with the discovery that in our of cars drive by, each of us was lost in his thoughts absence alJ eight of St. Malo's campsites had filled of friends, places and moments, we knew why we up. We eventually went to sleep on a poncho under bad come. ln Oscar Wilde's words, 'We are all in a ruin in a field outside the city, and we all agreed the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars'. that it was the most comfortable night of the whole two weeks. Paddy Mosse, Aidan Siggers, The next day saw the return of our mopeds to Richard Tutt and Dave Wallis 'Cycles Nicoles', unmarked, but with an extra

Work-shadowing in Shetland

l spent the first five months of my life in the Shetland is an addictive and uniquely beautiful Bahamas, and the next five years in the Shetlands, place. The sun rarely shines, but the more dramatic two sets of scattered isles a world apart in many the weather, the more beautiful the sea and respects. However, it was to the Shetlands I landscape become. The countryside is bleak, with returned during the last week of the Summer term, not a single tree in sight. Fields of peat and heather to participate in a few days of work shadowing at dominate the land and, from the plane, the land the largest oil and gas harbour complex in Europe, looks like a giam patchwork quilt. the Sullom Voe terminal. I was fortunate to have arrived in good weather, Shetland may be a remote part of Britain, but to the temperature being around 15 degrees. My many it is the hub of the North Atlantic. It is a busy father, who is a pilot in the terminal, met me at place where, as you wander the streets, you will see Sumburgh airport on the Monday morning. As I faces and hear voices from many foreign parts. didn't start work until the following morning, we However, it is not only humans who stop off here. took advantage of the weather and made a small Migrating birds rest awhile, making it an important tour of this enigmatic island. Just down the road location for visiting ornithologists. During the from the airport, at a small place called Quendale, summer months the island plays host to over were the remains of the tanker Braer, once a 100,000 breeding sea birds in the horizontally 250-metre oil tanker, butting its way past the bedded sandstone, some 400 million years old. All terminal. Unfortunately the cliffs intervened, now the houses are perfectly preserved, and the Shetland only five metres of the bow remain above the water accent is certainly one of the most distinctive in surface, and 85,000 tonnes of oil were discharged Britain. into the sea.

37 Tuesday morning finally came and l was drjven The next morning I went up in the pollution to the terminal to be introduced to some of the helicopter. I was amazed to find that in only one other pilots. I was greatly looking forward to it, hour we had flown 98 miles around the various although it could not be said that I wasn't nervous. islands of Shetland and had encountered two I had very little knowledge of what was awaiting me tankers coming into port, the Fosna and the over the next three days and, had I known, I would Alandia Wave. I flew in the helicopter twice, the have been eager to get started and not waste any second time with a different pilot, flying 6,000 feet time. above the clouds. It is a daunting experience having The man I shadowed on the first day was Simon, only ten centimetres of metal and plastic between a pleasant and amusing character, who was you and 6,000 feet of air. responsible for touring the ships in port twice a day Throughout the three days I ventured upon five to see if there were any dangers, faults or wrong­ oil tankers, each no less than 250 metres long, two doings on them. In short, he was a safety inspection helicopters, a tour of the complex and a tugboat. officer. The first tanker I boarded was quite simply The harbour is designed to accept, routinely, all huge. It was named, appropriately, the Olympic tankers up to around 365 metres with a draught of Armour and was a Greek ship. I could hardly up to 22.6 metres and liquid Propane gas (LPG) believe my eyes at the sight of this 350 metre, carriers up to around 260 metres. In addition to 250,000 tonne marine monster. I listened carefully liquid bulk and LPG cargo, the port is designed to as Simon explained all the details of the ship, how handle general, dry bulk, containerised cargo and the oil and gas were circulated round the ship and quarried rock. into the port. It must have taken an hour to go The tour on the third day revealed to me the round it. maze of pipelines and tanks which transpo'rt and The next tanker was the Sidelia, a Dutch ship, distil the oil. There were sixteen tanks, each of weighing a meagre 100,000 tonnes and 250 metres approximately 6,000 cu. metres to hold the crude long, so it took less time to go around. By this time oil and a plethora of pipelines and chambers to bold I was ready for my lunch. The strong wind and the the hydrocarbon gas. walk around the ships had given me a large appetite The Shetland Islands are mesmerising and I and the cook, Kareen, provided a hearty meal. would gladly visit them again. On the morrung of That afternoon, I was put on board one of the my return to England I had to rise at 5 a.m. to catch tugboats which push and pull the tankers in and out the plane, and the fresh sea air at that time in the of port and in the evening I had the opporturuty of morning is extremely invigorating. If you are watching my father pilot the Sidelia out of port, looking for a holiday away from everywhere I which gave me an idea of what he really does. thoroughly recommend it to you! Strong winds are frequently experienced at Sullom Beset by difficulties unknown to the rest of Voe and may be accompanied by sudden gusts from Britain, the Shetland Isles have been left to develop any direction, which makes the task of navigating their own unique and fascinating way of life. very difficult. Nick Cracknell

RAF Summer CCF Camp

(1994 - RAF CONINGSBY)

We left about I0.30 a.m. on the morning of cases more) terms with the female detachment of Commem., from the station, and made our way to the camp. Waterloo Station. From Waterloo we went to The first couple of days were fairly routine - London Victoria Station where we took an Inter­ just visits around the camp. It was about the time city up to Lincoln. We nearly missed our train when work experience started when all the 'fun' thanks to Sam Howe stopping off at every Burger began. By now everybody knew each other so when Kfog in sight! When we arrived at the station in we all went to our different sections for work Lincoln we were met by a bus already full of cadets experience we didn't feel awkward with other (male and female) bound for the camp - being in people. I myself chose the Fire Section which I the minority, we all felt rather intimjdated. When think must be one of the better ones - all the crew we got to the camp, it was straight into tea and then are 'well sound' - as they say up north - and into uniform, and we had a camp briefing - Simon they really get you involved. They took me out on Tricker, by now, was on first name (and in some all the calls with them - admittedly, on the first

38 day there weren't that many but on the second day - in the case of Nick James and Simon Tricker. we were called out about seven times. This was On one evening there was a night exercise organised created into a joke by the fire crew because, on the by Sqn. Ldr. Hope with devastating accuracy and day after all the cadets had been helping to service authenticity - we'd expect nothing less from the the Tomados, they all had emergencies on the RAF section. runway during take-off or landing. When it was finally time to leave, we all felt a bit There was also a lot of free time. We had the sad because we had made new friends and, in some opportunity to go into the local city - Lincoln - cases, 'made a friend full stop' (Phil Robinson). ln for half a day, which provided a well appreciated general the Summer Camp this year was my best rest. Also in the evenings there was a lot to do in the CCF experience so far, there was nying, obviously, way of pool, Sky TV, arcade machines and - a and it was, well, let's just say -'well sound'. bar! (only if you're 18, of course). The evenings were good social occasions where you could get to Tom Brown (Sgt. RAF Section) know everybody slightly better, especially the girls

Impressions from the Zouking Island

Je suis ne dons une ile omoureuse du vent Ou /es flamboyants pfeurent en jlocons de song. (Victor Duquesnay) Give me rhum and coconut water Zouking island wuking To break up the carnival (famous zouk song)

'So you're going where?', they said, 'Guade ... Unlike pidgin English, 'creole' is not an attempt at what?'. 'Where's that?', asked the most mimicking the language of the white master, but an incredulous. 'I didn't even know there were French original melting-pot of French regional patois and islands in the Caribbean", confessed the others. expressions taken from African dialects. Contem­ Well, to give you some idea, Guadeloupe, (named porary writers are particularly keen to revive and by Christopher Columbus after Santa Maria de celebrate the beauty of a language regarded as Guadalupe), is set between two English-speaking constitutive of l'idenlite ontilloise. The Caribbean is islands, Antigua, to the North, and Dominica to a privileged crossroads of civilizations, which the South. Politically, 'Les Antilles' consist of two explains why the supporters of the idea of creolite main islands, namely: La Guadeloupe and La believe in its future role as a model for the co­ Martinique. Each island has a population of existence and mutual enrichment of all world around 400,000, but it is estimated that more than cultures. one million 'Antillais' live in Metropolitan France. One very popular form of Guadelupian culture Since 1986, Guadeloupe, along with all French is the indigenous folk music or gwo ko, played on regions, has been enjoying some kind of self-rule, drums of different sizes, exactly as it would have characterized by bitter political feuds and endless been played by African slaves, some two hundred financial scandals. years ago. Ko can be heard in the street or on the Guadelupians are, ipso facto, French citizens, beach, but wherever it Happens, it is bound to but their common heritage harks back to the days attract a crowd' of people, who will gradually of slavery, rather than the glorious achievements of become entranced by its pounding rhythm and its the French Empire. If there is a collective soul on eerie echoes of shackled human beings greater than the island, it is the tormented spirit of some their fate. It is an unforgettable experience to be anonymous slave, condemned to roam, eternally, part of a ko session and to share with everyone in from plantation to plantation. In this respect, the the rising exaltation, born out of the music and the most significant legacy of the past is the universal dance. It is a far cry from zouk music, played use of the creole language, by all generations. virtually non-stop on all local radios, and luckily

39 confined lo the French-speaking islands. Zouk was servants. Then came the scrupulous listing of every originally concocted, some fifteen years ago, by a single member of staff, as attention gradually Martiniquais band, very, very short of ideas. At its dwindled among old staff already knowing each best, it sounds like the worst of disco music; at its other and slightly Jost new-comers. At the end of worst, it sounds like the best of the Eurovision this marathon session, everyone left the packed and Song contest . . . see what I mean? But do not stifling school gymnasium while the Headmaster dream of saying anything critical about it to was to disappear into his office for the rest of the anyone, or face the consequences! After all, zouk is year. I was next invited to meet my collegues what put Les Antilles on the French map, and it is d'anglais and get my time-table for the year. Some to Guadeloupe what the Mersey Beat was to Liver­ British teachers complain about having to start pool. One interesting spin-off of the enormous school at eight o'clock in the morning. They should zouk industry is the incredible number of girls who think of their West Indian counterparts, whose first join a band, with the sole intention of being spotted lessons ofcen begin at seven, as people make the as prospective top models in la Metropole. Will best of the early hours, while the temperature is still Naomi Campbell sink into zouk oblivion, as relatively cool. I was soon to discover that some of she is retracing the musical steps of her black my students had to get up at five to take a bus Guadelupian 'sisters'? bringing them to the lycee from the other side of the But, you must be thinking; 'What about island. teaching in the West Indies?' As a matter of fact, it My first shock was the total absence of wasn't all white beaches and coral reefs, you know! innovation in the teaching of English, since my own There were quite a few surprises in store, as the French school days in the sixties. The same boring Lycee Technique Charles Coeffin is part of an text-books still prevail and, although their lay-out impersonal campus, consisting of three lycees, the and content are far more attractive to the eye, they other two being a lycee professionnel plus a lycee continue to offer random selections of extracts, polyvalenl. Altogether, La Cite Scolaire is one of taken from novels and magazines, accompanied the five biggest ones in France as the student with the compulsory drilling exercises; the latter are population is around 2,500. meant to test the ability of students to develop their The school year started in grandes pompes with parrot's talents and nothing much else. French text­ an hour-Jong speech delivered by the Headmaster books touch on many aspects of the English­ with the traditional flourish so dear to French civil speaking world, which is an excellent thing, but

40 often leads to mixed-up views on England and enjoy the privileged status of 'external observer'. It America. As a matter of fact, French West certainly made me far more aware of the warmth Indian/ Antillais students are not remotely and breadth of la Francophonie, represented by 47 interested in distant England; on the other hand, countries expressing their own specific identity they revere the icons of black American culture like th.rough their idiosyncratic use of the mother Malcolm X, Eddy Murphy or Michael Jordan. For language. In this respect, the French West Indies many, who had never heard of the Beatles (or even are just beginning to acquire their specific voice Sting), the English language was best represented th.rough a group of writers magically attuned with and celebrated by the songs of Bob Marley, played l'Ome antiflaise. My transient presence as a everywhere throughout the Caribbean. The Frenchman living in England was not always clearly universal appeal of his anti-war and anti-slavery understood, but it was all the more stimulating to ballads finds sympathetic echoes in young people's be the 'ambassador' of the English language among self-image. Caught between three cultural legacies, students generally anaesthetized by the elusive my students found it difficult to cope with a American dream and sadly indifferent to the riches dominant French way of thinking, without losing of their own Caribbean heritage. their own West Indian identity or simply mimicking the rebellious attitudes of some black American J.-M.P . heroes. Altogether, it proved an invaluable challenge to (P.S.: There will be a photographic exhibition spend a year in such a cultural melting pot and on Guadeloupe for Commem. '95.)

41 Improvisation Trip to Denmark

Crat milj niste farob· senr lirt karf When Danish families who were to endure our company translated from gibberish into English, tllls means for the coming week. 'our trip was a great success'. Gibberish is a made­ Over the next four days we visited Holstebro up language used by improvisers, and was one of many times, were soaked by swimming pools and the skills that was used by the group of eight North Sea waves, bowled, inspected sailing boats, improvisers who visited Denmark in the last week flowers and hydraulic diggers, and returned to our of the summer holidays. hosts' homes each evening to delicious food and A combination of minibus, Scandinavian superb hospitality, both in large measure. We also Seaways, sparkling conversation and inspired managed to squeeze in English lessons and daily driving, brought us safely to the village ofTvis, just drama sessions. The drama happened in the outside the Douzelage town in Denmark, afternoon, when the eight of us worked with abou1 Holstebro. After a brief discussion to ascertain twenty-five Danes, many of whom were putting us which building was the school and which an old up, learning impro. games and maskwork. We all people's home (and many wisecracks as to where then made masks ourselves to use in the final JS-S would feel most at home) we arrived at Tvis performances. skole (Tvis school, for those non-Danish readers). Danes, in general, are very welcoming and are a There we were welcomed and handed over to the very warm race. Our regular visits to English classes

42 certainly reflected this. Much of the time we found On the next morning we went into Holstebro ourselves speaking most of the lesson, however on and 10 the town hall foyer. There we did various occasions we were split up into groups and chatted impro. games to the public who were walking with the pupils. The English spoken by the Danes through. We put on masks and walked out into the varied greatly. All the pupils spoke enough to make high street. We started shaking hands with people sense, although many parents did not, while others and they said strange things in Danish, although spoke fluently. Steve found himself chatting freely most gave us odd looks and walked away. This to a girl whQ'd only been learning English for three wasn't surprising, as having twenty people with years. weird masks walking towards you is quite daunting, The older Danes weren't always so welcoming. especially when you least expect it. We also made, On entering one of the classrooms, we met graffiti at one point, a tunnel for a bride and groom, who scribbled on the blackboard, abusing us. had just got married, to walk through. Unfortunately they spelt 'English' wrong. (They The trip was indeed a huge success, from every were about eighteen.). point of view. So many great friends were made On the penultimate evening we all gave a short within one week, and missed the next, that plans performance to the host families. Within the high for a visit by the Danes to Sherborne are already walls of the school gymnasium, and filmed by the under way. All our thanks must go to JS-S for the school camera crew, we demonstrated in English organisation of the trip, and to Mr. Swift and Mrs. everything that we had been doing over the week. Stein for their part in ensuring that all went well. As throughout our stay, we were very impressed by Denmark will always be associated with a perfect how much the Danes understood. Although we week, and Tvis with friends for life. As always were not wholly fluent in Danish (Tom was on the though, the Great Improviser himself should have way) it was obvious that the drama was a great the final words: Relf sbirn kar leyst neif todah! success, both with parents and improvisers. After the performance we had scones and tea or Andrew Wilkinson, Steve Waller, coffee, and the headmaster and JS-S thanked hosts Crispin d'Apice, Phil Coleman, Adam Stones, and organisers, appropriately with the aid of a Sophie Annesley, Fran Harris and Tom Robinson quote from JS-Sand a Danish joke respectively.

43 was let down and, as the cold waters of the Channel lapped up, a single poppy floated up into the craft. The trip was immense fun but this moment really brought home the fact that we were not there to celebrate but to commemorate, and, in the words 'Fearless' Trip of Winston Churchill, 'We shall never forget them.' N. R. de Mestre

We set off happy at the thought that we had missed two lessons and at the prospect of four days 'off'. However, as the minibus struggled up hills and made ominous noises every time Joe changed gears, a sense of foreboding began to pervade our thoughts. The rain began to come down ever harder and our pessimism was proven well founded when we reached Fountain Lake jetty: Fearless wasn't Letter to the Editor there! We were told it had gone to the other side of the base for refuelling so we sped over as fast as we could (only getting lost twice) and were much relieved to find her there and ready to take us aboard. After a brief wait we were shown to our rather bleak (but functional) quarters by a genjal Dear Sir, New Zealander who was to be our 'tour guide' for At the beginning of the Fifth Form, I was the rest of the trip. deemed reasonably competent at Mathematics and After being given bedding, we were shown to the so was allocated to Set Two. At the same time, I junior rates mess and the NAAFI and then given was told that I was, in addition to the normal GCSE the key to the TV cupboard and suddenly our trip paper, to sit Additional Pure Mathematics, Paper I, had really begun to take off! On our first day we one of the six modules that combine to form a were left to our own devices for much of the time complete A level. I was never asked whether I but were given a short ride in a Sea King helicopter thought this to be a good idea and, as a result, I by one of Lt. Vigers' myriad friends who seem to found myself studying topics such as integration appear in naval bases all over the country! The rest and logarithms, matters of such complexity that I of our trip was spent rehearsing for the found myself completely out of my depth as, I commemorations and scouring news reports for think, did several others in my set. The top three pictures of ourselves standing to attention on sets of the year had to sit this paper compulsorily. Fearless' upper deck. l am fully aware that for some people it would We were, in fact, lucky to be the guests of Cpt. have been a good idea to sit one of the A level Taylor on a ship such as Fearless - as its primary modules before even entering the Sixth Form, but functions are carrying marines and their landing surely this decision should be made voluntarily. As craft, there was plenty to do. We were given a tour for myself, and having seen the results of the past of the ship (I was lucky enough to have been shown two years I think I speak for many others, the round the engine room - a real experience!) and thought of studying Maths at A level never even taken for several rides on the landing craft, during fleetingly crossed my mind. Thus, when I received one of which we were actually driven by the famous my results, I discovered that I had failed the paper, (or possibly infamous!) Kate Adie. Apart from having barely squeezed an 'N' grade with 16 out of being able to fire an SA-80 on fully automatic and 70. In addWon to this, we spent such a vast amount dismantle a Browning 9mm, the high point of our of time trying to comprehend A level standard trip was the drive by, by Brittania, and the fly past Maths that my GCSE grade suffered, as there was in the shape of •50'. Having rehearsed determinedly no time to learn some of the syllabus. we were finally able to wave our hats (a bizarre I would ask the Director of Studies to consider naval custom) and shout Hip Hip Hip Hurray! seriously having just one or two sets set aside for (three ' Hips', I was informed, in case one gets lost). those who specifically volunteer to sit both these I will never forget the D-Day commemorations papers in order to prevent others from suffering in and am very grateful that we were able to take part the same way as I and several others djd. in such an occasion. There is, however, one moment which I would like to refer to in particular: Yours faithfully, as our landing craft sped between sunken ships and Mulberry harbours for the French coast, the front Edward Ferguson

44 Voices from the Past

The following two extracts appeared in The Shirburnian, one hundred years ago and fifty years ago, respectively.

THE PHONOGRAPH.

On Friday evening, Nov. 30th, Mr. vV. Lynd gave a most interesting lecture in the Big Schoolroom on the Phonograph. After a few introductory words on its construction, he let the Phonograph spea k for itself, which it did most effectively, giving some excellent records of Cornet and Piccolo solos, several well known songs, and a march played by the band of the Royal Marines which we believe we are going to hear again at the Concert. Mr. Lynd then s poke an imagina ry letter of a school· boy to his Mother to the Phonograph, a facsimile of which was reproduced. H e then invited one of the audience to sing a song that he might have the pleasure of listening to an e xact copy of his own voice, but as no one was forthcoming, the H eadmaster kindly came forward and spoke a few words before the formidable engine, which at once reproduced them, though in a somewhat distorted tone. l\'lr. Lynd then gave ·a sketch of the life of the g reat inventor, 1\Ir. E dison, and related the incident which led to the invention of the Phonograph, thus concluding a lecture which was most interesting, and in 'every way a great success. From The Shirburnian, December, 1894

SCHOOL EVENTS C. S. LEWIS. On October 7th Mr. C. S. Lewis, the distinguished theologian, answered questions in the big school-room before a large audience. He answered with considerable wit and wisdom all questions which could be satisfied with more than a haphazard guess, and those which could not he quite rightly refused to answer. He was notable for the stress which he laid on the basic importance of truth. CHAMBER CONCERT. The School heard a remarkably fine chamber concert on Tuesday, October 10th, given by Miss Bessie Rawlins (violin) and Miss Bonska (piano). The progranune was as follows :- Sonata in F. Beethoven. 5 Preludes (Op. 28) Chopin. Sonata in A. Franck. As usual the School began by shuffling their feet in boredom and ended by stamping them in acclamation. From The Shirburnian, December, 1944

45 In October of this year, Sally Trench gave a BSR talk about her experiences in Bosnia. Few who heard it will ever forget ii and, inspired by her address, the School raised a large sum of money to help her future humanitarian efforts. We publish below four different responses, all by Fourth­ Formers, to her talk.

A MEANINGLESS WAR

I was a thirteen-year-old Muslim, living with my I never slept al night. The noise of fire, shelling mother, my father and my ten-year-old sister. The and guns never ceased and I was forced to lie on the reasons for the war were never fully explained to floor because of my sick mother. She was dying. me. I remember that before the war broke out, my We knew it; she knew it. Also, I knew that it would parents were beginning to stay up late at night, be only a matter of time before my sister or I watching news bulletins on the Serbs collecting became the unlucky ones. On my brief trips to weapons, planning an offensive. I never understood search for food, I have noticed that the buildings this, and I was shocked when I was told that war around here have deteriorated more and more. It had broken out. My father had to go to fight for his .was lucky that our flat had not been hit by a shell or religion. bomb. Before all of this happened, I had been given Communjcation with the people in the flat next thoughts of war being wonderful, glorious and door to us was low. It had been before the war and patriotic. I was taught this at School, which was it still was during it. When I knocked on the door of one of the first places in my life that changed as a their flat, there were a few muffled bangs and then result of the war. It was closed just a week after the a low grumble of 'Come in'. Like our flat, this flat beginning of the war. Food became more expensive was bare. Trus was true as far as one corner. Here a and sparse. We had to sell everything in our flat television fuzzed away. The man remained silent that was not essential: television, radio, two beds, but glared over towards the television. IL was even the carpet had to go. Our flat became a bare showing fuzzy pictures of a woman being inter­ room, with one bed in the corner, which had to be viewed in a foreign language. There was a woman's snared by three people. Shootings were going on in voice over the top of it, a translator. It was saying the streets. Snipers threatened every comer. Food how there was hope for a country in such bad had to be obtained by searching the streets, times. It seemed as though the country had fallen emptying bins. It was in one of these excursions upon her as a saviour, or a leader. She spoke of her that my mother was shot. She had been hit in the plans to bring food in. The television started leg and blood poured from the wound. I dragged fuzzing. As the picture deteriorated slowly, it her up to the flat, tied the bed-sheet around the seemed as if the hope of the country went down wound, and laid her down on the bed. There was no with it. The neighbour gave me some scraps of chance of medical help. From the talk that I had bread and led me to the door. heard, the hospitals were full, only the most serious I went back to our flat and gave the bread to my of head wounds were being taken in. I looked down mother. She nibbled at it slowly, and dropped it. at my mother's face. It was pale, thin and She closed her eyes and breathed in. No more expressionless. breaths. She was dead. I looked at my sister and I could not understand why nothing had been held her hand. She burst into tears. I looked down done about this cold-blooded war. The U.N. had at my dead mother. It seemed as though this war been useless, dithering and not reacting. The streets held no meaning at all. have cameramen in them, taking Lhe news of our disastrous country to the lucky, lucky people, all Tom Grant tucked away in their cosy armchairs in Western Europe, sparing the odd thought for the Easterners.

47 Two weeks from now, Sally Trench is returning to Bosnia with supplies for the families of her refugees. She is a model citizen and an excellent example to all of us who take our lives for granted. She has risked hers, several times, and deserves much more credit that she is receiving. One would think her experiences would have scarred her, as MRS. SALLY TRENCH they would have any other person. Yet her strong sense of love, goodwill and perseverance have For almost two years now a civil war has been carried her through the horrors. In my opinion, the going on in the former Yugoslavia. Men and world could use a few more people like Mrs. Sally ·women are being slaughtered aimlessly. Violence Trench. and death have engulfed the few remaining cities. Yet, amidst all the death, destruction and hatred, C. Kierstead there are still people who care and take heed of the value of life. Amidst people being shot in the streets by enemy snipers, there are still people who try to SALLY TRENCH'S HUSBAND help. One of these people who has succeeded in helping is Mrs. Sally Trench. Sally and I lived in a small house in Abingdon, Sally Trench has become a beacon of hope in the just outside Oxford. It was September 1991 and we former Yugoslavia. She has also become an were watching a Panorama special on 'The Plight example of the goodwill and perseverance which of Bosnia'. The pictures on the programme were should be shown in all of us. horrifying and both Sally and I found it despicable. Sally Trench has experienced at first hand the However, I thought no more of it until, a week horrors of a country at war. She tells of a time when later, Sally mentioned her views on Bosnia and how she had been forced, at gun point, to watch it was horrible that no-one, not even the United fourteen-year-old girls being raped by drunken Nations, was doing anything to help the civilians in soldiers. that area. The next day she said that she had She tells of seeing a young girl, shot in both legs, decided to take a truck-load of food and clothes, who was thrown in the road, to either stop with some helpers, to Bosnia. Even though I knew oncoming traffic or to be run over. When a car Sally to be a forceful woman, determined to do came along the road, the driver saw the girl, what she wanted, I was heavily against the idea. J stopped his car and got out. He was immediately had seen on television what was happening and only shot in the back. The murderers then shot the girl, a few days previously a television crew had been and stole the man's car. shot by Serbian snipers. However, after a month of Sally Trench also tells of walking along a city arguing she convinced me. She said that she wasn't street and seeing a flare fall from the sky. Knowing working, so we wouldn't lose any money and it the significance of this flare, she fled imo a ne.arby made her sick to see those pictures on television. I basement seeking shelter from the mortars. There sorrowfully agreed. was a stranger in there, but the man turned out to For the next four weeks, Sally gave lectures and be very friendly. Sally expected a person who had talks at Oxford Colleges and raised a staggering been scarred by the war to have turned into a being amount of money. She also (out of one hundred full of hatred and greed. Yet she found exactly the and fifty applicants) chose three helpers to come opposite. The man spoke English very well and with her. The four of them were on the streets of asked her if she would like a cup of tea. He then both Oxford and Swindon with coin boxes. tore some pages out of the Bible am! set a fire. This Then in November, after renting a van from a man burnt the Bible to make a cup of tea for local haulage company, she set off. Her last someone whom he had never seen in his life before. 'phone-call before reaching Bosnia was from North Amazing. He is a perfect example of human Italy where she said that all was going well. goodwill. Two weeks after that 'phone call I was watching All of those incidents inspired Sally Trench. On the television with two friends. It was the Nine the way back to England she found 75 people living o'clock News and it had a special report. Suddenly in a cave, waiting to die. She took 25 of them into the room went quiet. On television, being her protection and brought them back to England interviewed by Kate Adie, was Sally in Sarajevo. to live in her house. Those 25 people made her She had just finished delivering her supply to a promise to go back for their families, yet, because hospital. The camera showed a close-up of the van of government regulations, she cannot. So Sally and at the side was a stream of bullet holes that had Trench is going to visit them. She drives three ripped into the canvas. All her helpers were there lorries from Oxford to Sarajevo on a continual too, although one was slightly ill. The report ended basis, at the risk of being tortured and even at the and we all left che room in disbelief. I felt guilty for risk of death. letting her go, yet immensely proud.

48 Six weeks Later she arrived back in Abingdon, The patrol stopped a few metres away; we immensely Lired yet still cheerful. She paid her moved further away from the road side. The men students a bit of money as· a way of saying Lhank had large guns which we had seen for most of the you. However, it did not slop there, she war; they stepped up to Gina; they shook her for immediately started to raise money again. She has ten seconds and then suddenly she seemed to wake now been on nine trips to Sarajevo and that area up. Gaining a vantage point most of us could see and has had no serious problems so far, but for her plight. She struggled and kicked with the three how long can that luck hold? soldiers; her clothes were almost all torn off and the soldiers laughed in a drunken fashion. They moved P. Harris away as she lay there; nothing had been done; I thought she would be lucky; she remained there for some time recovering from the brutality of the soldiers. I moved towards the road and her. I saw the truck move into the undergrowth and they placed camouflage over it. They moved back and returned 10 Gina. I froze, not daring to move, barely fifteen feet from the soldiers; I heard their guns cock and almost immediately four shots fo!Jowed and a huge uproar of Laughter. THE SHOOTING Gina was obviously still alive because I could see her struggling. The three men then picked her up There were six of us; we had not eaten for two and placed her in the middle of the road; there was days and we were following a road aimlessly. We still life in her. The soldiers returned and almost sat could see our own village, now very small in the down on me as they now talked and laughed. They distance. However, we could still see the puffs of obviously were going to use her body to ambush the smoke from the bombing. We were on one of the next vehicle that came along the road. I proceeded only roads out of East Mostar which hadn't been back to where the others were. I told them of mined, or blown away. We did not have to wait Gina's situation. We were helpless; we could not long this morning before a vehicle could be heard help her. We had to rest, so we took shelter and we approaching. It was not the vehicle we were hoping were still able to see the road. Unable to watch Gina for, so we scampered into the bushes by the road any more, my eyelids closed. side, hoping that we were out of sight. Keeping very It must have been hours later when I heard shots still, I peered under the undergrowth. What was being fired; I woke with a start and saw two dead Gina still doing on the side of the road? We could bodies in the road and a van driving off. I watched not rush and get her as the patrol was almost the bodies for minutes. No signs of life showed and stopping just in front of her. We could not even get our journey towards freedom had once again been her attention; she stood there as though in a trance hindered. I would never forget that experience as I from some alien ray. Her doll in her hand seemed to travelled through the dark of the night. cry out for help, but I could do nothing and did nothing. James Mountain

49 ST. OUEN'S BAY

Birdsong colours I.he silent sky, And a fresh Westerly wind sweeps the cold, dry dunes. As I.he tide slowly consumes the hard, slick sand, Many people move up I.he bustling beach. Ice-creams stay icy in the cold Autumn air, And dogs dig in the virgin sand. Seagulls swoop through the salty air, And far away a kite masters the biting wind. A smalJ white triangle claws its way along the rolling horizon, Under the cold, white sun. In multi-coloured ski anoraks and leather walking boots People accompany their excited dogs through salty spray from The ever-breaking waves. A determined ball rolls away from a laughing child, Accompanied by a gusting breeze. The far-off slipway supports numerous cars, Soon to be carrying large, sandy families.

Ed Olsen

50 Again here asking myself why, why something is wrong why I'm slopping jus1 before arriving why I'm not working? I feel s1upid, sick, empty tired of having done the things that I will do tired of having said the thing that I will say. But every day I wake up again, not believing of still being here nol wanting to stand up, but I am still alive, I am stilJ here waiting for IJlyself, me and my nothing, me and ·my badness.

I'm envious of the people who seem always knowing what to do, who seem happy all 1he time with their little job to carry out, then, they play some sports quickly into tea a prayer and straight to Hall, that is to say, •Do as you are told'.

But when time goes by you slowly realise, 1ha1 when you stop, you think, and you start questioning if what 1hey 1old you is right. So as soon as you are born they make you feel small by giving you no time ins1ead of ii all, ensuring 1hat you don't question their lies. Maybe 1hey are right. Sometimes too much thinking makes you almost die, and here I'm the stupid and you are the wise, while I waste my time try to explain co you some1hing that I can only intuit.

You see, if you stop and think, you will find that what they told you might not be true and realise that everything is just a lie. Maybe it's too late and maybe they are right but what you are is just a stupid stereotype. o.c.

51 Cricket

1st XI

The rain that prevented any play on the last day King's Bruton demonstrated the need for every of the Cricket Festival at Sherborne reflected both player to fulfil his role in every department of the the disappointments and frustrations of the entire game. Scoring a few runs but dropping vital season. A remark when it was decided that no play catches; bowling accurately was unrewarded unless was possible on the final day: 'Great! That means it was supported by good ground fielding; and we have won the festival', said a great deal about playing a few handsome strokes before succumbing the attitude of the team. to a lack of concentration were deficiencies which, It was a competitive side. They all wantee when accumulated over an entire game, proved too desperately to do well and demonstrate their ability great a handicap. to win matches. They soon realised that cricket was Victories against Clifton, Blundell's, Sherborne a hard game to play and even harder to perform Town and Haileybury were secured by individual consistently as individuals in order to produce a contributions ably supported by all the other successful team effort. Defeats by Canford and members of the team.

54 The game against Haileybury was undoubtedly often slow and low in bounce which is as much of a the most exciting match of the season. IL was, in my handicap to keepers as to batsmen. view, exactly how cricket at school level should be Chris Hattam, Tim Scott, William Worrall and played. Much credit was due to the Haileybury Tim Ambrose all played several games for the XI team who played positively and, most importantly, without having any real opportunity to establish accepted the possibility of defeat in order to achieve their credentials. They were always prepared to put victory. It was a strategy that sadly too few schools the interests of the team first. are prepared to adopt. The result of this particular lf the weather created problems for the players it game could have gone either way with the result proved frustrating for the groundstaff. However, I being decided off the penultimate ball of the match. am indebted to Mervyn Brown and his assistants To use a sporting cliche, it was a pity one side had for providing such excellent pitches and net to lose. facilities. Tom Singleton umpired in his usual firm All those involved in this particular game but friendly manner and never complained despite learned much about tactics, technique and several journeys from Sidmouth to find the rain temperament. Should these and other benefits be had prevented any play. Janet and Peter catered constantly sacrificed in the pursuit of a playing with efficiency and good hwnout - always able to record of little lasting consequence? brew a coffee for the master in charge within 'A game is exactly what is made of it by the seconds! character of the men playing it. New laws, new Phil Illingworth scored neatly and managed the ways of preparing wickets, new schemes of score box as well! As ever, the scorer is one of the reckoning championships - these external things most important members of the team. A.Ian do not matter.' Sir Neville Cardus' words remain Willows coached and cajoled with his usual true today. determination. He forsook gardening duties at The Sherborne XI lacked stars but not ability home even when the weather prevented net There were flaws in basic techniques which practice. I am sure that Mardene agrees with the prevented this talent from blossoming. Is the statement 'Oh God, if there be cricket in heaven, let expertise in coaching too concentrated and on too there also be rain'. few boys? Tim Percival and Jonty Butler rarely created a solid opening partnership. However, Percival began to play with more freedom and looked to dominate the bowling as the season progressed and Butler struggled to convert a solid start into a big score. Nick Hyde developed into a genuine all­ rounder. A natural striker of the ball, he tightened his defence to produce a match-winning innings against Haileybury. His off-spin bowling was unfortunately recognised too late but he still finished with the second highest number of wickets. Will Hargrove looked far more secure when he realised the need to play straighter and not score all his runs through mid wicket. Ed Bellew tended to decide on his shot before the ball was bowled but hopefully he has learned from this season and will accept responsibility for playing big innings next year. Simon Johnson never realised his potential. He should have been the genuine all-rounder in the side. I share the responsibility for his ultimate disillusionment with the game. Phil Harvey worked hard to fill the role of middle order batsman and seam bowler. He learned to perform within his limitations. Andrew Nurton bowled well throughout the season. He was always likely to take wickets and made it difficult for batsmen to score freely. Sadly his batting did not progress as one would have hoped. John Wheatley kept wicket unspectacu.larly but safely. He did well considering the wickets were

55 My thanks to Giles Reynolds who, in his first year as master in charge of cricket, did an excellent job of administration. Not only did he arrange fixtures for some sixteen school teams as well as the 2nd XI House League programme but also managed to cook barbecues for our South African visitors. He will no doubt feel his arrival on summer days at The Upper similar to those of Peter Edwards in A Walk to the Wicket:- By the end of September, what with mists, mellow fruitfulness and the publication of the first-class averages, 'When I get my reserved parking spot (one of cricket is forced to admit that Autumn has set in with a the few privileges of a master i/c cricket) there is a terminal vengeance. What news then of the 2nd XI member awaiting my arrival. He may be anxious to season? On the face of it, a series of eight matches seemed enquire after my health, or to pass some urgent promising; however, for a variety of frustrating but germane reasons, another truncated season ensued. The message to me. But, more likely, be will want to first four matches were played within an eight day period, complain.' followed by a four week blank period (including half. term) - unfortunately extended to live owing to a rain­ Results: Played 13, Won 4, Lost S, Drawn 2, induced cancellation - before the next match. So that, Abandoned 2. after half-term, two matches only were played, with our distinguished West Country rivals, Blundell's, sadly Clifton Won by 8 wickets unable to raise a team and thereby cancelling the final Sher borne Town Won by 7 wickets fixture. I do not seek to apportion blame, because the Woodbridge College Match Abandoned task of arranging school fixtures is an unenviable one and Mill field Match Abandoned the imponderables of climate and other exigencies impose Free Foresters Lost by Swickets their own fraught timetable. I merely sound a tocsin for Canford Lost by Swickets future 2nd XI cricketers - some on the cusp of 1st XI King's Bruton Lost by 8 wickets selection - since competition and incentive are a sine BlundelJ's Won by 9 wickets qua non to sustain and reward their commitment, talent Kearsney College Lost by 13 runs and enthusiasm over the whole term. MCC Drawn Notwithstanding the occasional gripe, the team Pilgrims Lost by 81 runs generally ignored their frustrations and responded Haileybury Won by2 wickets purposefully and with no little humour to the tasks Marlborough Drawn confronting them. Graham Lawes, as Captain, was relatively inexperienced but bad accumulated a durable Balling reputation as an all-round games player. He managed to forge an effective spirit within the cadre by his example Batsman Innings Runs Not Highest Average and quiet but firm approach. Sometimes he strayed Outs Score towards tactical caution but this was perhaps under­ Percival 13 314 l 62 26.2 standable given the limited opportunities to appraise his Butler 12 228 l so 20.7 attacking options on the field rather than in a net. Overall Hyde 12 289 0 so 24.1 he was a conscientious and dependable captain who Hargrove 12 2SI 3 •s8 27.9 assisted greatly with the organisation of practices and Bellew 12 184 2 78 18.4 administrative details. Harvey 9 92 I 43 11.S The season opened with the traditional fixture against Nurton 10 S8 4 21 9.7 Marlborough, ending in a traditional draw. Middle order Ambrose 3 SS 0 37 19.3 batting from Whyston Bristow and Tim Ambrose pro· Wheately s 9 I 3 2.3 duced some momentum and, abeued by some line Bishop 7 21 2 8 4.2 striking from John Harris-Bass, we declared at 173 for 7 Scou s IS I 9 3.8 after 4S overs. We cautiously allowed Marlborough SO Hauam s 16 2 s S.3 minutes plus 20 overs (3S overs in total) and they Bristow 3 24 0 10 8.0 responded brightly with IS2 for 7. John Ambrose, our leg-spinner. bowled wliat was to be his longest spell of the season - six overs. Bowling The match against Sherbome Town the following day culminated in a victory for the 2nd XI but not wi thout Bowler Overs M 'dns Runs Wickets Average SIR EIR certain alarms. A golf match and a restriction on Upper Bishop 149. 1 30 428 18 23.8 49.7 2.9 Sixth boys in the 1st XI playing on two consecutive J ohnson• 28.0 6 72 2 days - meaning promotion for several of the 2nd XI - Harvey 88.0 13 340 IS 22.7 3S.2 3.9 effectively left the manager on Sunday morning still Nunon IS3.I 40 391 20 19.6 4S.9 2.6 searching for three players. A final inspired visit to Hyde 116.S 31 321 16 20.1 43.8 2.7 Westcott House happily produced three ebullient Third­ Scou 16.0 4 64 3 formers - William Howe, Ed Short and Peter Harris Worrall 9.0 I 4S 2 - who each made vitaJ contributions to the team's Hargrove Sl.O 12 179 s 35.8 61.2 3.S success. The Town declared after 43 overs with a score or 174 for S and a school victory looked as likely as Lady • Must have .5 wickets Buck joining the Holy Orders. However, 37 overs later the team, under Peter Richards, clinched the game. M.D.N. Notable contributions flowed from the bats or Tim Scou - scorer of the only half-century of the season - She.z Haque and Richards, while an unfazed Howe clubbed a belligerent 15 runs towards the end.

56 Claycsmore produced an exhilarating display of stroke lst XI bowlers. Managing the 2nd XI is something of a play, rattling up 170 from 32 overs. Sherborne replied coenaesthctic experience and I extend my warmest thanks modestly with 63 for 5, compiled from 30 overs, albeit in to all those twenty-six players who unflinchingly and adverse weather conditions, with the curmudgeonly home unselfishly turned out to play; to our scorer and keeper umpire unmoved by a combination of persistent drizzle, of the records, Tim Pike; to that telluric prestidigitator ripples of pavilion invective and a visit from the cricket and singular cricketer Mike Nunon; and cumulatively to professional. My view was that we were playing their 1st Mrs. Chant, Mervyn Brown, Giles Reynolds and Alan XI and, as sporting hosts, we should continue, however Willows. disadvantageous to ourselves, until conditions became dangerous. The umpires mutually agreed a halt when the Teom from: G . Lawes (Captain). J. Ambrose, T. Ambrose, bowlers' run-ups had acquired the consistency of a W. Bristow. M. Chutcr, A. Cruise, N. Edouard, R. Fidgen. bechamel sauce. Regrettably, the match did not start until S. Haque. P. Harris. J. Harris-Bass, C. Hauam, W. Howe, 2.50, owing to the late arrival of the Clayesmore coach, R. James, P. Luard, N. Maltby, C. Martin. M. Raleigh. thus restricting the number of available overs. On the P. Richards, H. Rogers, R. Rogers, T. Scoll, E. Short, question of overs, Mill field suggested that we should play 0. Smallwood, J. Warren, R. Wodehouse. an overs game, using a fixed tea interval as the halfway mark. The side batting second then received the same Results: Played 6, Won 2, Lost I, Drawn 3. number of overs as the side batting first. I believe this merits serious consideration. Sherbomc 173 for 7 declared Drawn Alas, the braggadocio of Mill field proved too much on (Bristow 37) a damp wicket and we lasted only 30 overs. mustering a Marlborough I52 for 7 paltry 62. Lawes remained 23 • , providing stout but unavailing resistance and setting a fine captain's example Sherbomc Town 174 for 4 declared in the face of some well-directed, hostile bowling and Shcrbome 175 for S Won aggressive fielding. Chris Martin swung the ball (Scott 52, Haque 30, Richards 29) effectively in helpful conditions, capturing an early wicket and Bob James on his debut took a wicket, but Clayesmore t 70 for 2 declared Millfield won deservedly. Shcrbome 63 for 5 Drawn After a five week interval the team reassembled for the trip to Can ford. Was this the first time, we pondered, that Sherbornc 62 Lost a triumvirate of discerning Guardian-reading staff (La"'es 23') (M LM, GT and J AT) had been placed in charge of three Millficld 65 for 3 away teams? Slow batting, with little sense of urgency, finally amassed for Sherbomc a score of 147 for 7 from SbCTbomc 147 for 7 Drawn 44 overs, with numerous opportunities for singles (Bristow 39. La"'es 30, Richards 29) ignored. Three senior batsmen - Bristow, Richards and Canford 87 for 8 Lawes - all played themselves in but none dominated or (Harris-Bass S for 24) advanced to a large score. John Harris-Bass then chose to produce his most devastating spell of the season (10 overs, Downside 63 6 maidens, four for 25) and with the helmeted Hattam (Martin S for 24) hovering with predatory hands at forward short leg, plus Shcrbome 67 for t Won useful suppon from Martin and Maltby, we seemed on course for a victory. Alas we failed to force home our G.T. advantage and the game ended in a draw. With hindsight it is perhaps worth considering whether our fielders pressed in too close, rather than maintaining an orthodox field and encouraging shot-making. For example, the last over was given to Oliver Smallwood - a leg spinner - who tempted their srnbbom number three batsman down the track to be neatly stumped by Bristow. SPORTS SCHOOLS And so to Downside for what became the final match EQUIPMENT UNIFORMS of the season. The team presented a determined and confident demeanour which readily converted into a positive on-field performance. Although Hanam "'~1' 8 0 1t+ pounded in belligerently it was the wily Martin who ~ ~ ~ achieved the crucial breakthroughs with some fine bowling, projected at a beguiling pace that encouraged swing. Backed-up by some well-j udged catches, a run out and Maltby's line and length, Sherborne were able to dismiss Downside for 62. A victory by nine wickets allowed just time enough to finally savour John Warren's PERRIS sound technique and Rob Fidgen's shot-making abilities, two players whose confidence had suffered a buffeting. sports So the match drew peacefully to its expected close and unlike the demise of George V, oo physician was required to hasten the end. The tabula rasa has been filled with a brief summary of the season, at the start of which we were encouraged to produce positive, enjoyable cricket and the 2nd XI largely THE SCHOOL SHOP achieved this aim. On a personal note I should like to see prompt starts, a better over-rate maintained, more SHERBORNE, DORSET participation from spin-bowlers and closer links with the Tel: (0935) 813416 Isl XI so that the 2nd XJ batsmen can practise against the

57 3rd and 4th Xis

It would probably be fair 10 say lhat the I 994 season Several of this year's 4th XI will, we hope, form 1he suffered from inconsislency - the principal culpril being basis of next year's 3rd XI, and we look forward to this. 1he weather, which thoroughly ruined most of the May The more regular members of the 4th XI include Ben fixtures. Harrild (of occasionally dramatic batting), 'Treatip' The ponents were good - an unusually lovely Arunanondchai (of enthusiastic valour), Charlie Barke summer's day for our f1rs1 fixture againsl Marlborough (bowling like the wind), Dave Wallis (compact and and Wells Calhedral School, when ii is normally more competent), Nick de Mestre (one time spinner), John common to be dropping calches owing 10 chapped bands Ellerbeck (cheerful and willing), •Archie' Maclaren (no1 lack of prac1icc?). And 1hen .. . (Scottish whirlwind), Ben Norris (faithful follower), We staned lhe season with verve and enthusiasm and James Hughes (swashbuckling), Tom Rider (peripatetic) the teams more or less selecied themselves. There was a and, last but not least, Simon Stokes (devas1atiog when good cross-sec1ion of old hands and a few very promising on form). We very much hope to see them again next newcomers, who had to make their mark initially in the year. 4th XI. James Steele-Perkins was made Captain of the 3rd XI for the season - a choice very acceptable 10 all in Jrd XI Team: J. S1eele-Perkins. B. Wallis. B. Wilde, R. James. 1ha1 he approached lhe rOle wilh calmness and capability T. Barton, A. Cruise (S games): S. Haque, C. Grime, if no1 always with dynamism. A willing learner, however, R. Woodhouse (4 games): P. J . Luard (3 games); R. Roaers. and he provided a good solid basis for the necessary team­ N. Edouard (2 games); D. Gibbs, 0 . Smallwood, N. Buller work. (I game). Talent seemed endless, until we played our matches and lhen, somehow, ii didn't always reveal itself fully. Results: Played S, Won 2, Lost l, Drawn l , Abandoned I. The baiting revolved around the dependabilily of the Captain, Ben Wallis, Charlie Grime and Robert James, Marlborough 3rd XI S7 coupled with the flair of Shez Haque, P. J. Luard and (Cruise 4 for 21, James 4 for 4) Tim Barton to whom congratulations on his century Sherborne 6 t for 2 Won by 8 wickers agains1 Blundell's. Others nobly supported the quest for runs though with even more variable success. Sherborne 128 for 9 de1:lared Drawn The bowling was enlhusiastic and energetic rather than Clayesmore 2nd XI 86 for S well directed and we had three people at least who made the ball swing dramatically. When on form they could be Sherborne SS Lost by 7 wickets devasta1ing, when not, was1eful. Shez Haque, Andrew (SteeJe.Pcrkins 29) Cruise and Robert James fiued this description Thornford 87 for 3 frequently, while Tim Banon bowled accurately and consistently and Ben Wilde had direction problems until Sherborne 77 for 4 March abandoned la1e in 1he season. Two newcomers of great promise were Bath College of Higher Euca1ion Richard Woodhouse, whose leg-breaks were a pleasurable variation and often successful. and Richard Rogers, who Armadillos I SS for 8 declared bowled with a good action and accurately. Both, too, Shcrborne I S6 for 9 Won by I wicker could ba1. Olly Smallwood had the dubious pleasure of (Grime 70. Haque 36) playing for three Xis, 41h, 3rd and 2nd and possibly found difficulty in knowing where he belonged, but his 4th XI Team: R. Woodhouse (4 games); B. Harrild, R. Rogers, baiting looked good and he could bowl strange looking T. Arunanondchai. B. Norris (3 games): S. Haque, T. Barton. off-breaks. P. J. Luard, 0. Smallwood, N. de Mestre, S. Stokes, J. Ellerbeck, We had several wicketkeepers: principally, Nick C. Barke, D. Wallis, D. Gibbs (2 aames): B. Wilde, R. James, Edouard briefly and then P. J . Luard who kept A. Cruise, J. Hughes, A. Maclaren, T . Rider (I game). competently and gave confidence 10 bowlers and fielders alike. Results: Played 4, Won 3, Drawn I. From the coach/umpire's point of view, it was a very enjoyable season; the general approach was excellent, Sherborne 60 Won by7 runs that is, aiming to win but at the same time playing the Wells Cathedral 2nd XI SJ game in the right spirit, thus deriving the most enjoyment (Rogers S for 13) from it. The last major 3rd XI match summed it up. Playing the Armadillos - an adult touring side - we Millfield 3rd XI 180 for S declared won by one wicket, on the penultimate ball of the last Sherbome 127 for 9 Drawn over: you can't get much closer than that and both sides (Woodhouse 25, Harrild 28) had a splendid day: icricket at its best - well done, lads and thank you. Sherborne A XI 171 for 6 declared Won by t02 runs The 4th XI were generally successful in their (James 46) engagements, owing to some sterling performances by Canford 3rd XI 69 particular individuals who, perhaps inevitably, were (James 3 for 18) promoted to the 3rd XI. One of the difficulties with the 4th XI is that we play other schools' 3rd Xls or even 2nd Sherbome A XI 206 for I declared Won by 99 runs Xis and one just hopes that the opposing teams are a (Barton 111 •. Haque 60• ) reasonably balanced match for an enjoyable game. On Blundell's 3rd XI 107 balance we seem to find enough people keen enough to The A XI was a mix of Jrd and 4th Xis (more 4th than Jrd) turn out, although, like other schools, as the A levels draw near there is a reluctance to play away from home; M.L.M./M.A.W. however, this should make not the slightest difference to an enthusiast!

58 Colts A Colts B

Season 1994 proved 10 be a successful one for the Season, what season? A five match fixture list was Colts A team, winning five out of their six contests - the reduced, by a cancellation and the rain in May, to games only draw coming in the game against a strong Millfield against Marlborough at the end of April and Blundell's at combination. the end of June. Given that I was not even present at the In the batting department, the major comributions former, it is somewhat difficult to write a report! came from captain Andy Searson, the consistent Ed However, it can be recorded that against a Elliot-Square, and the stylish Jimmy Cheung. Searson Marlborough side which declared late the team did well LO played solidly at number three, scoring half-<:enturies reach a winning target of 188 in only 27 overs, with against Marlborough and Blundell's; Elliot-Square's Messrs. Chuter (60) and Davis (56) making healthy season consisted or scores of 49, 19, 60°, 17 and 22; and comributions. Cheung was impressive in the middle-order, particularly The Blundell's match drew the usual post-GCSE pot­ in his first 1wo outings of the season. Other useful innings pourri of available players. However, after a slightly at various times came from Tom Kitching, Tim Clark, shaky start, Sherborne reached a respectable total of I 57 James Davis and wicket-keeper Tom Morgan. for 8 declared, thanks mainly to a confident middle-order It was Searson, Clark and left-arm orthodox spinner 57 from Bertie Stanley and a gritty 23 from opener Matt Will Sanderson who were the pick of the bowlers Chuter. What followed was the most pitiful display of throughout the season. Clark, displaying an action very fielding that I have ever witnessed in my life. True, the much reminiscent of the great South African all-rounder ream was short of match practice, but the players Mike Procter. proved to be far too good for Marlborough appeared far more keen on emulating the performances in the opening fixture, capturing 1 for 23 from ten overs. of Frank Spencer than Jonty Rhodes. Through misfields, In addition, he picked up three wickets in each of the poor throwing and dropped catches, at least 40 runs and 5 games against Millficld and Canford. Medium-pacer wicket-taking opportunities were squandered. It is all the Searson troubled the opposition on many occasions. His 6 more ironic that they actually managed 10 win. Having for 28 against Downside and 5 for 26 against Winchester eventually claimed four Blundell's wickets, it transpired were superb spells indeed. Sanderson looks to be very that the opposition side was packed with ferrets (they go promising. Tall and able to produce sound night and in after the bunnies). Their middle order and tail variation, he gathered 16 wickets from five stints at the collapsed, Hugo Rogers taking 3 for I in two overs, and crease. Hopefully, he will continue 10 progress. Giles Sherboroe achieved victory by 16 runs. Smallwood, Tom Scou and Mike Cima also bowled well Not a classic season then, or a vintage team, but the on occasions. boys were unbeaten and they did look smart in their Captain Andy Searson led the side admirably. He was whites. fortunate in that morale within the team was quite high - this certainly made the task of their 'Australian' Tttim from: A. J. M. Young, M. G. Eh-y, M. E. W. Chu!er, coach a much easier one as well. I was impressed with the D. M . Pugh. H. Rogers, J. D. Gardner, J. P. Dunon, C. Stanley, willingness of a number of team members to have an extra J. A Davis, J. L. Leigh, G. A. W. Smallwood, T. C. Blomficld, session in the nets on many occasions. J.C. Bishop, A. J. A. Walker. T. C. Moon. However, the performances of this side should be viewed in the light of the calibre of the opposition. Resu/1s: Played 2, Won 2. Certainly, Marlborough were a very average combination indeed and Downside had only a handful of players who G.T.W.R. were capable. Many thanks 10 all players for their contributions and also to GCA and Mr. Alan Willows for their assistance at training. Looking forward to viewing the· Ashes' battle over the winter!

Results: Played 6. Won s. Drawn I.

Shcrbornc I03 for 2 Won Marlborough 100

Sher borne 132 for 9 Drawn Millfield 163

Sherbome I03 for 8 Won Canford 99

Sherbome 91 for 2 Won Downside 87

Sherbornc 168 Won Blundell's 14S

Sherbome 128 for 8 Won Winchester 82 S.A.H.

59 resistance. the bowlers can feel proud 10 have taken 54 of Junior Colts A the 60 wickets that were up for grabs in the season. My thanks must go to the players for making it a lot of fun, to Alan Willows for his expert coaching on Thursdays and to Charlie Krasun for his unruffled competence as scorer. I would also like 10 thank Peter Filmer on behalf of all those he helped. His enthusiasm The main objective for the '94 season was to get the and sound technical knowledge helped many of tbe players enjoying their cricket once again. Many of those players through bad patches. who had played in the Mini Colts last year were wary of being over-coached 10 the point where playing the game Resulu: Played 6, Won S, lost I. ceased 10 be any fun. We proved to be successful in this aim and much of the credit for this must lie with Charlie Marlborough 8S Warren who proved 10 be a popular and energetic Sberbome 86 for S Won by S wickets captain. As well as keeping the team buoyed up in the field he progressed tactically as the season wore on and Mill field I S6 for S declared his field placing and bowling changes in the BlundeU's Sherborne 157 for4 Won by6wickets game were a model of how to keep the pressure on when (Warren 67•, Simon SI') the opposition arc tediously chasing a draw. The team could have had an unbeaten season if they Canford 111 hadn't pressed self-destruct against a very ordinary Shcrborne 72 lost by 39 runs Canford team. However, all the team were playing better cricket at the end of the term than at the beginning, Downside 40 although the mental application necessary to succeed was (Bradley-Downer 7 for 22) lacking in one or two of the batsmen. Net sessions Sherborne 44 for 0 Won by 10 wickecs designed 10 eliminate faults and encourage correct play are only worthwhile if the lessons learned are applied in Sherborne 176 for 4 declared Won by 77 runs the weekend games. The team as a whole failed to do this .(Warren 69, Scorer SI) in the Canford game and paid a heavy price. Blundell's 99 The nucleus of the team stayed the same, as had been (Fradgley 3 for 18) the case in the Mini Colts, with Charlie Warren, Charlie Dowdall, James Scorer, Will Newbery and Mark Simon Sherbornc 174 for 7 declared Won by 132 runs fronting a bauing line-up that failed only once to score (Warren 42) big runs. Mark Simon's power hitting against Millfield, Oundle 42 the season's most impressive win, where he made 51 from (Fradgley S for 16, Bradley-Downer S for 23) 39 balls, was the most devastating onslaught I have seen in schoolboy cricket at any level. He was ably assisted by M.J.L.B. an unbeaten 67 from the skipper who consistently produced runs at the top of the order. Charlie Dowdall had a 'mare of a season, walking off with Daddies the Duck on his first three outings to the crease. He is a natural stroke-player but will never make Junior Colts B big scores unless he plays himself in before going for tbc big shots. James Scorer didn't produce until the end of the season but I hope that, as he sees more cricket and gets used 10 match situations, he wiU ease up on himself; An unusually shon fixture list, combined with bad that's when the runs will flow. luck with the weather, meant that a talented side did not Eddie Bartleu made the step up from the Bs to open really have sufficient opportunity to make full use of its and always made it into the teens before getting out to abilities. careless shots. When he gets a bit more forearm power Confident wins against mediocre Marlborough and and accepts his own limitations and turns them into Clayesmore teams were followed by a defeat at the hands strengths he will be a good player. of Millfield. This was a match that should not have been Will Newbery and Tom Ellen didn't stay at the crease lost. Our players at this level come under pressure so too long when the chance was theirs to impress. With such rarely that they are sometimes unable 10 cope with the a talented middle order they only had a few outings to the problems posed by relatively strong Millfie.ld sides; crease, but both showed they have talent and ability recovering well after an early batting collapse, we ended which they must nurture. by surrendering meekly to intelligent bowling and John Fradgley and Ed Benbow provided the all­ fielding. We were never really stretched in the next three rounder middle order that was never really tested in the matches, but against Oundle we again failed to do batting department. Fradgley always got wickets when he ourselves justice against competent opposition. It is now pitched the ball up as the late movement he generated in clearly very difficult 10 arrange sufficient fixtures with the air had even the best batsmen in all sorts of trouble. teams of our own standard; this is a great pity. Ed Benbow's left arm twirlers are a novelty act that make The bauing was sound and the bowling strong. The tailenders who play back and miss the turn look very openers, Rob Henderson and Chris Blandy (227 runs at ordinary. When he tosses the ball up and finds the loop he 45.4). scored rapidly and consistently. If they both failed, can be very effective. When he drags the ball down and we were likely 10 struggle, but it was George Mann who bowls it short he is very cafeteria. played what was probably the best innings of the season, Mike Bradley-Downer also made the step up from the leading a superb recovery against Oundle. Of the other Bs and bowled with control and guile. He was always batsmen, Mark Goodeve-Docker showed the most trying 10 make the ball do the work in the air and off the promise; at present he lacks power, but his time will pitch and he even makes a rank long-hop outside the off. come. Harry Goodson-Wickes swung the ball sharply and stump look like a thoughtful delivery. With Humphrey much of the time looked a fine bowler; Jamie Rowland­ Hardwicke pounding in 10 end any middle order Jones, James Radcliffe and Julian Schiller also bowled

60 effectively at medium pace; and Rob Henderson's off­ attitude, and it will be interesting to sec how far it goes spin brought him considerable success; Chris Blandy next year. proved himself to be an exceUenl wicket-keeper, and we were lucky to enjoy his services in a B side. Others showed Nick Chuter: Captain. He was possibly a little surprised a lot of promise with either bat or ball without really to be given the job, but he led the team well and scored realising their full potential. lhe highest equal score of the season (72°) against This was a very pleasant side with which to work, and Downside. His fielding was usually brilliant, and he took Rob Henderson's thoughtful captaincy contributed much one of the catches of the season. 1995 targets - play to a successful and enjoyable season. I very much hope straighter on leg stump, and fewer chips. that those who played this year will go on to achieve further cricketing success during the rest of their Lime at Mall Hawkins: Leading run-scorer, he was particularly strong on the back foot, and was willing to be patient, a Sherbome, and beyond. great virtue. Took some wonderful catches at slip. Bowled weU in the final too. 1995 target - move feet Team from: R. C. Henderson (Captain), A. G. Ambrose, more, early on; score SO v Millficld; see Chuter. C. G. Blandy, W. J. I. Bray, M. P. Goodevc-Doclm, H. J. F. Goodson-Wickes, J. E. W. Higginson, G. H. A. Mann, Mark Shearer: Wicket-keeper who made the difficult look T. C. Moon, J. J. Radcliffe, J. E. Rowland Jones, J. N. Schiller, easy. At his best brilliant, he looked the best batsman in W. E. C. Triggs, R. I. Warnock, H. C. Zoller. the team. Targets for 1995 - make concentration his middle name, and stop finding new and unexpected ways Results: Played 7, Won 5, Lost 2. of getting out.

Sherbome 140 for 8 declared Won by 71 runs Mike Dewar: Opening bat. Looked excellent technically Marlborough 69 and practised hard. Nice pair of hands. 1995 (Henderson 4 for 27) targets - score the runs his talent warrants, and learn to punish every bad ball. Sherborne t61 for I declared Won by 67 runs Ed Short: Middle order bat. Made the mos1 of limited (Henderson 58, Blandy 71 ") opportunities, and hit the bad ball well. He was keen to Clayesmorc 94 stay in ... and why not? Target for 1995 - enjoy (Goodson-Wickes 4 for 38) fielding and the success of others more. Millfield 161 for 3 declared Rupert Haycock and Mark Harrison: 1995 target - Sherbome 171 Lost by 30 runs make themselves regular members of the team. Both performed well when called upon. Sherbome 202 for 9 declared Won by 137 runs (Blandy 71) Ben Scott: All-rounder. He worked hard on his batting Poole Grammar School 65 after an injury preven1ed him from bowling. Fielded superbly, and was a great example to others in this Sherbome201 for9declared- Won by ISO runs respect. Targets 1995 - keep batting improvement up; Downside 51 learn to bowl line and length. (HcndCTson 5 for 6) Tom Harrison: Opening bowler and self-proclaimed batsman. Took the team's only 'Michelle', not a reference Blundell's 64 to his well groomed appearance. Bowled with (Goodson-Wickes 5 for 24, considerable pace. Fielded superbly too. 1995 targets - Schiller 4 for 15) accuracy of bowling and an escape from Stalag Luft Shcrbome 65 for 6 Won by 4 "'icketS nummer elf.

Shcrbome 183 for 1 declared Lost by 2 wickets Johnny Porter: leading wicket-taker, he learned that pace (Mann 76•) was not the only way in which to achieve success, bowling Oundle 184 for 8 outswing with good control. Fielded athletically. 1995 target - to enjoy bowling so much that batting three is P.T.S. unimportant to him. Ollie Kelly: Leg-spinner. He baffled many batsmen with his variety and control. An excellent first season. 1995 targets - to learn to bowl a little quicker without losing Mini Colts A his loop, and to field like Jonty Rhodes. Duncan Reece-Smith: Slow left arm. Took a hatful of early season wickets, bur then was sadly injured. 1995 targets - to turn the ball a little more, and to score some The Mini Colts A wa~ annihilated by Millfield by runs patiently. seven wickets. I start the report with this thorny sentence in order to give the team a target for next year, before I Pele Harris: Slow left arm. Stepped into the breach examine the rose garden of its success. excellently, and ended the season batting at number three. The batting order never really sorted itself out, but not 1995 targets - to become a quality aU-rounder, and to because we couldn't find talent; there was always learn to bowl the ball rather than put it there. someone disappointed that he wasn't in the top four. We RFW: Umpire. Magnificent, almost faultless. 1995 were spoilt for choice in the bowling department, target - to conduct a fielding practice without pulling a although the off-spin spot was left vacant. The fielding musde. was enjoyed even in the dullest moments, and there was lots of ability. It was an enjoyable season for which many thanks are What pleased me most about the team was its due to RFW for all his efforts and his excellent company, willingness to learn and its desire to improve. Victory in to Alan Willows for Monday afternoon technical the Dorset Under 14 Cup Final was a reward for this expertise, to Mervyn Brown for very good pitches, to

61 BAB for getting the Mini Coils v Staff match off to such Team: C. S. Cook (Cap1ain), J.C. C. Mountain, W, G. 8. Howe, a good start and to all our loyal supporters, especially Mr. T. R. S. Wykes-Sncyd, C. H. Reid, P. L. Harris, Kelly and the Hawkins clan. R. J. R. Edlmann, A. G. S. Skinner, E. P. H. Lock, M. H. Harrison, G. N. Shaw, C. J. Dixon. Results: Played 9, Won 7, Lost I, Drawn I. Results: Played 4, Won 2, Lost 2. Sturminstcr High School Won by 92 runs Marlborough Won by 8 wickets Shcr-bome 147 for 4 Lost by 4 wickets Oaycsmore Won by6wickcis (Mountain 54, Dewar S4) Mill field LoSt by 7 wickcis Marlborough 148 for 6 Thomas Hardyc's Won by 67 runs (Reid 3 for 24) Canford Won by IOwicketS Downside Won b)" 178 runs Millficld 112 Blundcll's Drawn (Harris 6 for 41) Bryans1on Won b)" 20 runs Sherbomc 113 for 4 Won by 6 wicke1s (Haycock SQ• ) A ~-eragts (Qualifica1ion, 100 runs or 15 wickc1s): Sherbome7S Los! by 2 wickeis Baning Bowling Poole Grammar School 76 for 8 M. Hawkins 159 a1 31.38 J. Poner 17 al 6.24 (Skinner 3 for 12) N. Chu1cr 147 a1 29.40 0. KcUy IS at 7.33 M. Shearer IS3 al 21.86 T. Harrison IS a1 7.73 Downside SI (Reid 4 for 12) G.D.R. Sherbome S2 for 0 Won by IO wickcls R.C.F.G.

Mini Colts B

This was a summer that promised so much, but which was sadly reduced by rain to only four matches. It was obvious from the first net practice that we were picking from strength, with more talented players than usual available. Chris Cook grew in stature as the season progressed and he proved a sympathetic and enterprising captain. Mini Colts C Our season began in April at Marlborough in glorious sunny weather. Mike Dewar and James Mountain scored fifties as we rattled on to one hundred and fifty in two hours, before a challenging declaration. Marlborough rose to the occasion and achieved their target with one over left, in a game worthy of a grander stage. Peter Marlborough provided an uncharacteristically warm Harris, with his well nighted and accurate left-arm day for the opening match. Their batsmen amassed 35 spinners, bowled out Millfield for only one hundred and runs in the first 22 overs. Henry Whipp, his brother twelve on the following Saturday. Haycock played a Charlie, and Chris Hamilton bowled tightly and, as captain's innings of fifty not out to sec Shcrbome home. Marlborough tried to accelerate, wickets fell steadily. This was further proof of the team's quality. Indeed, the Wallace trio were to take 26 of the 53 The season may have been short, but the excitement opposition wickets which fell to our bowlers in the continued at Poole Grammar School in a low scoring season, and Chris Binnie also made a sta.rt on his haul of match, which Poole won by two wickets. Adam Skinner 12 during this match. When Sherborne baued there were bowled straight and aggressively, but the other bowlers never any serious doubts about the result, although a did not manage to support him sufficiently. The final num• of wickets in the middle of the innings betrayed a game was an anti-climax, with Downside collapsing and brittleness which was to haunt us. Charlie Reid taking four for twelve. Sherborne won by Clayesmore did not provide very serious opposition ten wickets. and our top order piled up a winning score in only 28 We had an enjoyable season despite the wet Saturdays overs. Martin Chadwick looked set for a century until he and I should like to compliment the team on their was out. Henry Whipp and Simon Wilsey, who was to enthusiastic attitude to practices. Next season's Junior retire to the athletics track after this match, skittled the Colts B will play some attractive cricket. My thanks to Clayesmorc batsmen. our scorers, in particular Tom Dennison, and to those Two matches were scheduled against MiJlficld but who played their unsung pan in the team, whose names were both wrecked by the weather. The second did not arc listed below. even begin, but in the first a shaky stan was followed by

62 an unbeaten stand of 92 between Peter Hall and Peter White to set Millfield a daunting target. The match was well-poised with 15 overs left when rain fell. Infuriatingly, it cleared again almost as soon as the Millfield team had gone home. After more than a month's rest we travelled to Canford to face their B team, which was strengthened by an A team player who was over age for the cup fixture which our respective A teams were playing on the same day. We were somewhat weakened by an exeat weekend. Poor fielding discipline cost us about 20 runs and when we eventually disposed of their star be was replaced by another. However, be set us a generous target and we set off at a pace which would have won the match. Chadwick was again set for a match-winning score until he lost concentration and played across a straight ball. Alun Bethell then played the anchor r61e as wickets fell, and the arrival of Miles Freeland, playing in his first match, raised our hopes brieny as he thrashed ferociously. Unfortunately, it all ended with a rearguard action to save a draw, but I was left wondering what might have been if we had accepted just one of the run-out chances offered, if Chadwick had kept his head, if McLaren-Clark had not been too old for Can ford As. If only ... There was much co learn from this match. Warminster usually give us a well-matched contest but sadly several of their players had been disciplined for bibulatory activity and were therefore not permitted to play. We bowled them out twice in only 31 overs, and scored our own runs quickly and carelessly, only the faithful Andrew Saunders and the hypochondriac Freeland applying themselves properly to the task. 1 was disappointed that so many of our side had to be cajoled into continuing the match so as to give the Warminster men a second chance with the bat. They had travelled some distance and we would have finished by 3.30 bad we not extended this elementary courtesy. The final match, against The Grypbon, produced the best finish. Our batting was sadly careless again but Hamilton played a most mature innings and Philip Allen as last achieved a score worthy of his talencs. The first two Gryphon wickets were obtained cheaply, but there was Resulrs: Played 6, Won 4, Drawn I, Abandoned I. then a long stand and the next did not fall until the fifth of the final 20 overs. Our men stuck to their task but I Marlborough IOI almost despaired when the Captain suggested to me tha! (H. Whipp 5 for 26) be might try our seventh (!) and eighth (I!) bowlers as The Sherbome 105 for 7 Won by 3 wickets Gryphon resisted stubbornly. My relief was unbounded (Saunders 29) when be eventually brought back the brothers Whipp about four overs later than be should have done, and they Sherborne 169 for 3 declared Won by 157 runs then shot out the last five batsmen immediately, to win (Chadwick 69, Saunders 43) with 14 balls co spare. Clayesmore 12 At a post season 'beer' match for the A team I (Wilsey 4 for 3. H. Whipp 3 for 4) overheard RFW castigating an A team player for playing a bad stroke. The boy justified his action on the grounds Sherborne 196 for 7 declared Abandoned that the match was unimportant. He, like most of my (Hall 66•, White 36•, Bradley 25) team, would not accept that every action in every match is Millfield 68 for 4 important, and that no opportunity should be lost to practise this most technical of games. So many players at Canford 183 for 6 declared this level don't use their heads, don't realise che Sherbome 150 for 8 Drawn importance of doing routine things correctly, and don't (Bethell 32. Chadwick 32, Freeland 29) do the simple arithmetic which would indicate the correct tactics at each phase of the game. If aU our opponents bad Wanninster 18 and 38 tested us as Canford did we could have learned more. (Chadwick 4 for 2, Binnie 3 for I and 2 for 4, As well as those named above 1 should mention Hamilton 3 for I) Graham Shaw, who captained and kept wicket until he Sherborne 133 for 7 declared Won by an innings and 77 runs was promoted; Michael Bradley, who looked as though (Freeland 58) he could make a really solid batsman; Tom Grant, who never really got a chance to shine; Will Hodgkinson, who Sherborne 127 Won by6 runs swashed his buckle but, as his hockey coach said in an (Hamilton 59, Allen 29) earlier report, would not take advice; Dzik Danha, always The Gryphon 121 keen; David Forward, Edward Habershoo, Ollie Biggs (H. Whipp, 4 for 32, C. Whipp 3 for 15) and Tom Bugbird, all on the fringes of the team but willing to help out when needed. J.A.T.

63 Tennis

1st VI

In June 1789, amid the lurmoil of lhe French Despite the agony of a close-run defeat al the Revolution, lhe Tennis-Court Oath was taken by hands of King's Taunlon in lhe firsl malch, the Lhe Third Estale lo 'never separate, and to meet resilience of Sherborne's combatanls meant lhat wherever circumslances mighl make it necessary for the team came second only once more all lerm. Jl il lo meel'. This sort of enlighlened philosophy was was inspiration, not perspiration, Lhal gave us a nalurally lhe only lype of oalh ever heard on The draw with Hampshire Juniors, a result that sem Upper and il epilomises lhe ethos behind hislorians scurrying lo their archives to see if this Sherborne's Isl VI. Here was a learn dedicated to feat had been achieved before. The 'men from the playing with exuberance, passion and spirit, a team hills' al merry Marlborough could nol wresl victory filled with men of vision and soul. h was intuition from the gallant Dorset side. Canford, Bryanston and innate talenl lhat lriumphed over the meagre and Downside also succumbed to the toreadors of qualities of committed percentage players and tennis. determined grafters so beloved of other schools, David 'Poison-dwarf Alan' Thomas, our sports and seasons. Ri sks were taken as a matter of celebrated captain - what can one say? Three course and all three courts were littered with years in the top echelons of tennis have not gauntlets cast down in lhe face of apprehensive dampened his ardour for the sport. A rock of opponents. stylish stability, he maintained an attitude that was Our gladiators soon realised thal there was no characteristic of our enthusiastic and unfellered need for mere mundane hard work and the doctrine approach lo the whole business of the only Real of 'practice makes perfect'. We strove to finesse game. Together with Nick Lamb, lhe 1wo crealed our way, nol lhrough malches bul ralher through the most perpendicularly-challenged couple to play lhe stubborn obslruc1iveness, mediocrity and hard­ in lhe 1st VI. Nick's drop-shot and second serve earned compelence of lhe enemy. Al the beginning certainly improved during the term and, when at of lhe season, competition for places was vigorous the net, both players were formidable. and many a fine player was lefl disappointed by his 'I'll see just how good he is' said DJR as he uJlimale rejection. In the minds of lhose selected, strode fatefully on to Lhe court - famous lasl tennis had become art: creative, entertaining and words! Promoted from the Colts, Simon Hill played for its own sake. quickly became 500/o of a hugely potent and

64 successful partnership and was a fine specimen of Alan, our coach, whose patience, especially with lhe ability that lies within the younger section of lhe lhe largest member of the squad, was much School. Despite being allowed in the Isl XI, in the appreciated, can be cenain that we were volleyed to !st VI caps were banned, and so bandanas were exhaustion by the end of the season. He was a man donned by the likes of the Lower Sixth pair of Tim with a joke for every occasion, and how we all Maciver and A. J. Dowdeswell. The former played enjoyed hearing it. Thanks must go to lhe better with the racket in his hands, and besl when groundsmen who ensured the high quality of the lapping the accumulated wealth of experience of grass courts. However, the absence of other couns the author of this report. A. J. proved as strong­ at Sherborae of the same standard was very obvious willed as Jason (of Argonauts fame) by concen­ when I compared them to those at other schools, trating on tennis rather than the Sirens from SSG. and this can only deter younger players from taking Mark Wheeler performed the Herculean task of up the great game. replacing injured players and always complemented (usually outshining) the more regular players. Results: Played 7, Won 3, Drawn 2, Lost 2. This was DJ R's third year as manager ofthe !st VI. It was he who created the essence of lhis side; King's Taunton L I • 8 Downside w 6 • 3 he cared not only how we played but why we Bryans ton w s . 4 played, his was a constant struggle to define his and Marlborough D 4 !1? -4!1? our relationship with the whole game of tennis. His Clifton L 2!1? • 6 Vl own particular blend of tennis and biology Hampshire Junfors D 2 . 2 enthralled us all and amused many a passing Pilgrims w 7 . 2 footballer. One can make an analogy with a good Nick Maciver white wine: DJR was refined, sparkling, fruity and clearly al his besl when chilled!

65 Colts VI Shooting

There are not many delights in this world that can beat As in previous years, thousands of rounds have the Summer Term al Sherbome, wha1 wilh most of the green fields of Carey's occupied wilh cricke1ers and the gone down the indoor range during the course of long, ligh1 evenings free 10 be ou1doors. II is, however, in the two winter terms, the vast majority being fired a small corner of Carey's, namely lhe 1ennis courts, tha1 at competition cards. In fact, so great was the we need 10 focus our auention. This is because it is here quantity of lead, the range had to be shut to clear it that a selec1 few spent many hours of their summer out. At the same time, the lighting was improved by indulging in 1he most social of sports - Tennis. And the addition of two floodlights, so there is now no selec1 few ii was. The s1an of 1he 1erm trials saw lhiny boys trying for a excuse for not seeing the target. place in the limi1ed eigh1-man squad and, gauging by lhe As usual, the School entered for the two main resull of 1he first ma1ch against King's Taunion, the team .22 competitions, run by the British Schools' eventually selected was a talented, emhusiastic group. ln Smallbore Rifle Association and Country life. this case, 'even1ually' is used ra1her reluctantly because Three teams were entered in the former and the no sooner had they been selected than they were head­ hunted for the 1st VI, in the case of S. J. HilJ, and lhe results were very pleasing. The S team managed to 2nd VI , in the case of D. L. 0 . Crosthwaite-Eyre and win their league while the A and C teams took T. P. Newbald. However, once the pairs had been sorted, second place in their respective leagues. Just one ii did not take long for the team to settle into a commiued team was entered for the Country Life. Again, the routine under the leadership of Mike Edie. results were pleasing, with the School coming 11th With two wins under their belt 1he 1eam quickly out of 51 entries. In general the standard of )earned that in Team Tennis, if everyone docs not fight for each game un1il 1he biller end it is very easy to convert shooting was high, especially in the grouping where a winning position into a narrow defeat. And we did just the team achieved the top score, being helped by tha1 agains1 Bryanston and Marlborough, losing 4 - S in two possibles. bo1h cases, before coming back in true fighting spiri1 to With the coming of the Trinity Term, we got out draw with a SLrong Clifton side. A period of rain and a the 7.62 full-bore rifles and the Cadet G.P. and set nash of 1alent from 1he Hampshire Juniors drew to an end the competitive season of Team Tennis. off for Mere range, usually twice a week in the In Lrue Summer Term fashion, many hours were also afternoons. Much needed practice was obtained spen1 in social round-robins, playing for the 'much during this time and slowly scores increased. Four priuxl' noating trophy. Grea1 effort was also put into major competitions were held in the Trinity Term. beating 1he powerful G. Brooks, who kindly gave much In the South West District the team managed a of his time 10 teaching 1he team new skills. The final social event was a friendly against the Girls' School. silver at snap. A week later, four members of the For the Colts thus: team were able to go to Sisley to shoot at a distance Winning was not everything; of 1000 metres, double the distance we normally Winning was not 1he only 1hing; shoot. Although results were not as good as hoped, rather, ii was just part of it provided valuable experience shooting alongside a very social 1hing - Tennis. top shots in the country. Teom: M. W. Edie (Captain). M. T. Stockwell, C. R. Grant­ So the end of the term came and went. A week Petcrkin, T. J. M. Franklin, R. E. Carvell, D. N. Morgan, later the team was back in Sherborne, colJecting N. Dostol, T. 8 . M. Chadwick. weapons and equipment for the Sisley Schools' meeting. The standard of shooting by the team was Results: Played 6, Won 2, Drawn I, Lost 3. high, especially in some of the hottest weather of King's Taunton w 9 -0 the holidays (94° was recorded on one day). The Downside w 7 - 2 Ashburton was won by Epsom with a score of Bryanston L 4 - 5 S2S.44, an · average of 6S.6 (out of 70.14). Marlborough L 4 -s Sherborne came 33rd from SS entries with a score Clifton D 4V.-4lh of 476.21, an average of S9.5. The winning score Hampshire Juniors L 2 - 7 seems way out of our reach, but there are those B.A.B. amongst the team who are capable of a score of around 66. Two notable scores in other competitions using the 7 .62 were those of Nick James and Sam Howe. Nick came 8th from 2115 with a score of34.6 out of 3S.7 in the WelJington and, in the lveagh, Sam managed a score of 34.3, placing him 11th from 1885 entries. Other results for the 7 .62 were as folJows: Nick Stone and Andrew Wilkinson came 29th from 38 entries in the cadet pairs, a good result cortsidering this was the first time both had shot at

66 Sisley; Guy Thompson, who was the reserve in th<.. coacn me scnool shooting teams for the past fifteen Ashburton, got 43.3, which placed him 10th from years. Concentrating on the pistol, he taught three 38; and, in the school staff competition, Dr. subsequent winners at Bisley. One of these was to Blakeley came 4th with a score of 66.4. go on to become a member of the British shooting The results gained from the Cadet G.P. were team. Before he died, the results from Bisley were once again very good. In snap the School came 8th passed on to him and there is no need to tell ho\\ with 226 and in Marling we came 6th. Pistol also impressed and pleased he was. He will be greatl}' provided some members of the team with high missed. scores. In the advancing man, Bertie Stanley scored The new season has already started, marked by 26 which placed him =3rd from 186 entries. He the influx of new Third-Formers to the indoor also came 20th in the cadet pistol and Sam Howe range. Some have shown promise already and those achieved 31st place from 81 entries. Bisley next year who want to become part of teams must carry on may not provide such a large meeting, as some practising. Meanwhile, the two shooting teams have Parker Hale 7 .62 rines issued to schools by the already begun shooting competition cards with MOD have developed cracks in the barrels. This has standards being high. Let's hope they stay that way. led to a ban on them for the indefinite future so Finally, the shooting teams wish to thank Mr. next year it may mean shooting only with the Cadet Thompson and Dr. Blakeley for all the time and G.P. If this is the case, we hope to do very well as effort they have put into running the range and shooting with this weapon tends to give us excellent coaching the teams over the past year. Without results. them the high standards of shooting and efficient The best part of the 1993-94 season has been a organisation of practices and competitions would most enjoyable year in the shooting world. be impossible. Unfortunately, it was marred by the sudden death of Wing Commander Tonkin who had helped David Montagu

Sailing

Cap'n Al's team done good. From an that we didn't really deserve to go through; but wt: inauspicious start (an unblemished record of did, just, much to the chagrin of Milton Abbey. defeats in the Michaelmas term) they built, with And we sailed excellently at the finals themselves, quiet (oops, I forgot that Giles was in the team) just losing the Silver Final to King Edward's again. determination, a formidable band of heavy-duty The second team continued their unbeaten team sailors who came 6th in the International record and the thirds had close matches and some Schools' Final and were the 4th British school. It good results, winning two out of three in the end. was a good year. The term started with easy matches against /st VJ from: A. Speers (Captain), C. Venne, E. Wingate, Canford, Milton Abbey and Winchester, and this E. Whipp, T. Beard, G. Bradford, W. Thomas-Ferrand. left the big matches against Bradfield and 2nd VJ from: T. Boltwood, J. Archer, B. Palmer, Pangbourne. Light airs (ever our downfall) P. Robinson, 0. Bradford, N. Duncan, R. Bonham­ prevented a clean sweep into the Regional Final, Smith. where, nonetheless, we entered favourites with King 3rd VJ: J. Chilton, E. House, F. Crews, A. James, Edward's Southampton to win the two available B. Bourne, G. Ker. places in the International Final. We sailed so badly S.K.W.

67 Golf

For no apparent reason, 1993-94 turned out to term began quite promisingly with a halved match be easily the least successful season for the school against King's Bruton at Mendip Golf Club but golf team of the past decade or so, and yet the thereafter it was downhill all the way - and for the golfers did well enough in the annual West of record it must be admitted that we were defeated by England Public Schools' Invitation Tournament to Bristol Grammar School at Bristol and Clifton Golf reach the final for the first time in years - about Club, by Milton Abbey, albeit narrowly, at Ashley which more below. Wood Golf Club (where both sides were able to It was a long wet winter and when our matches play the new nine holes for the first time), by resumed in March we experienced a run of defeats Canford at home, by Marlborough at Salisbury and on successive Sundays. Two of these were not South Wilts Golf Club (whose Professional, Gary unexpected as they were away matches against Emerson, had the distinction of being first off on strong opposition - Millfield (at Yeovil) and the first day of this year's Open Championship at Bradfield (at High Post). More disappointing was Turnberry as I pen this report!), and, finally, by to lose to Downside at home 2 - I in the H.M.C. Blundell's at Burnham and Berrow Golf Club on Schools' Foursomes Competition, as we had beaten the Sunday before Commem. On this last occasion them quite easily in a fourball better-ball contest at I was again grateful to Peter McKee for running the Sherborne in November. match for me - but this time luck deserted him The high-water mark of the school's golfing and we went down to our first defeat (bar the year came early in the Easter Holidays in the West Radley final) under his management. This match of England tournament at Burnham' and Berrow was also the only occasion in the Summer Term Golf Club. The team did especially well on the first when 'George' Todd was beaten. However, Toby morning to dispose of Cheltenham 4 - I and that Couzens regained his rather long-lost form and won afternoon they proceeded to defeat Blundell's 3 - 2 a resounding victory over his opponent. after Andrew Todd took what turned out to be the A few other matches deserve to be mentioned. vital second match to the first extra hole. Both he On Sunday, 1st May, the O.S.G.S. regained the and Graham Lawes (No. 3) did well to win both Tom Parry Salver when they defeated the School their matches that Tuesday and the Captain, Toby and Staff by 5 Vi - 2 Vi in foursomes and, on Couzens, set a fine example in the afternoon when Friday, 1st July, the Parents demonstrated the he won his match. On the Wednesday morning, advantages of age and experience when they however, Nemesis struck and we went down by prevailed over their sons by 5 !12 - 4 Vi in 4 !12 - Vi against a very strong Radley side, with greensomes. In our internal competitions, only Ed Bellew 'troubling the scorers' (as they say) the House Foursomes was won by The Green on Sherborne's behalf. As I was away on the World (T. Couzens and A. Todd) after they beat The War I battlefields trip at the time, I was most Digby (G. Lawes and S. Ashwood), whilst the grateful to Peter McKee for supervising the boys Kemp Cup (Senior Individual) went to Andrew and, to quote from the official match report, he Todd after defeating Toby Couzens in that final. deserves praise for 'his superb driving skills' - a reference not to his proficiency off the tee but to The following played for the Golf ream on at least two speed behind the wheel, which enabled a vital train occasions in inter-school marches during the Lent and to be caught! Summer Terms 1994: T. Couzens (Captain), A. Todd, G. Lawes, S. Ashwood, B. Tatham, E. Bellew, Alas, the Burnham tournament proved to be a R. Ashford, E. Ferris, S. Telling. false dawn and, almost unbelievably, there were no wins in the Summer term though, as ever, it was Results: Played 9, Halved I, Lost 8. never possible to turn out our strongest team. The P.S.F. 68 The season was, by ordinary standards, very a national sprint coach, whom we employed for successful, but when one realises that this could some of the season, was most welcome. have been the best season ever, one can only look The T.S.B. Cup has become a major pan of our back and feel great disappointment. season now, with boys trying to peak for the We were beaten again into second place overall difficult rounds of competition. This was always by Millfield at the King's Taunton meeting and in going to be our best year-group ever and we knew the Lutra Shield competition, although six of the that they had an excellent chance of winning the me,eting records were broken on those occasions National Title. They swept through the first rounds and the competition was excellent. We competed with consummate ease, then, in the regional finals, well in matches at Marlborough, King's Bruton and scored a record number of points, beating, amongst Clifton, entering reserve teams due to the fact that others, Millfield. So the stage was set for the most of our top athletes were competing elsewhere National finals; the points scored at Millfield would in search of better competition. have seen us finish in first place in last year's Sherborne managed to win seven AAA County competition. Unfortunately, it was not to be. The titles this year and fourteen boys were chosen to day before the National Finals, the lop two points represent the County in the South West scorers were rusticated for drinking offences and Championships. Several boys managed to achieve were not allowed to go to Sheffield to take part. At National quality standards and, in a normal year, such late notice we were unable to find satisfactory would have been selected. Apparently, though, the replacements and, as a result, we finished in County girls were considered to have qualified eleventh position. It was probably true to say that better and, as a result, there were more girls selected this was the biggest disappointment I have ever had for the limited number of team places. However, to endure in all my years of coaching Athletics, but Jason Cox was selected and competed well at we will pick ourselves up for next year's com­ Telford, but was unfortunately beaten in the petition. second round. (His P.B. would have placed him in Many thanks to Richard Williams, who proved eighth position nationally.) to be an excellent Captain, and, of course, to the Indeed, we had particular success in sprinting Athletics coaching staff who worked tirelessly as this year, with most age groups represented at usual. County level, and the coaching of Mr. Ken Walton, S.J.C.

70 School House Despite the seemingly overwhelming belief shared by most of the House lhat nothing whatsoever had been accomplished during the term, lhe House, as ever, succeeded in achieving quite a bit, some of lhe most notable events being ... The departure of both our House Tutor and our House Matron. Both Mr. McKee and Mrs. Firbank start their new jobs at Eton (as Maths teacher and 'Dame', respectively) next term. Their contributions to the House (for three and nine years respectively) will be remembered by all who were here with them, and we thank them for all that they have done for us and for being so helpful, cheerful and efficient. Our thanks and best wishes go with them both to Eton. ln sport, where we were represented, in cricket, by Tim Scott in the Isl XI, Rob Fidgen in the 2nd XI, David Wallis in the 3rd XI; and in the lower school by James Davis in the Colts As and severaJ representatives in the Mini Colts for both Cricket and Tennis. In Athletics, Ed Nicholson and Rupert Fleming became Dorset Champions in the 400m and the Hurdles, respectively. Andrew Mosse attended the nationals for both the 80m Hurdles and the Discus events. Various members of the House were in shooting teams and Stu Ramsay captained the house swimming team to its fourth consecutive second place. Rob Fidgen won a History prize, Alex Au won a bursary from University College, London, and Andrew Macintosh, having successfully competed in the British Mathematics Olympiad, was then invited to auempt the University of Waterloo, Ontario's, lnvitationaJ Mathematics Challenge, and must be congratulated on his achievement. The other obvious source of academic achievement would have to be the exams, about which I can only say that the Upper Sixth, and indeed the Fiflh Form, have been working industriously throughout the term and we can only hope that their results will bear this oul. Graham Shaw and Will McNeill must also be congratulated for their contributions to the National Independent Schools' Orchestra and the Dorset Youth Orchestra, respectively, and Ollie Barton for his part in the Rock in' Honkies contribution to the Leavers' BaJJ. Tom BaJmer also deserves mention for his letter to The Sunday Times. Finally, with what was arguably the most impressive achievement of the term, if not the year, come the entire cast and crew of Terra Nova. This you will remember as the house play and its successful conversion to Comrnem. play must be attributed to both the skill of the actors concerned {Tom Robinson, Charles Perry, Richard Tutt, Andrew Mosse and Ed Gibbons) and Dr. Hamon, the director. Phil Cramp unfortunately could not perform at Commem., having broken his leg. Thanks again to all who contributed to this impressive production, and our congratulations to all concerned.

Douglas Hope

73 Abbey House The casual observer might have seen little more to the Trinity Term at Abbey House than large numbers of boys lying sprawled over bean-bags in the bargeyard, yet we achieved much in a remarkably short space of time. The focus of the term was, of course, academic and, on that front, our results were, as PMHW put it with such characteristic enthusiasm, 'pleasing'. We achieved 400'/o A grades and 66% A and B grades at A level, with Jonathan Conlin and Hugo Evans winning places at Oxford. Our GCSE results were equally impressive, with four boys being mentioned at Lists for receiving seven or more As. On our return to school, it has been announced that Tom Beard has been awarded an Exhibition in recognition of his nine As, combined with the scholastic lead that he has given throughout his time here. We have all benefited immensely from his example. Special mention must here be made of the Bradfords, with Oliver following in the footsteps of his brother who achieved 100% on one module of the A level Maths course, winning the Commendation Prize with a massive nineteen. A vast numbr of school prizes were distributed among members of the House and nine out of the thirty-six possible Commemoration prizes were won by boys in our Upper Sixth. Our morale having been seriously weakened by the loss of the cross-country cups in the Lent term, our sporting achievements were perhaps not as impressive as had become habitual. However, we were at last notified that we had won the combined Hockey leagues and the Junior Fives Cup, while Sam Howe was naturally the first member of the We also bade farewell to Hubert, our Fifth Form to win his minor sports colours. Duncan Houseman, that cheerful, good-natured yet Reece-Smith played for the County cricket team sometimes not completely intelligible man, who has and we supplied four members of the Junior Colts retired after over nine years of service. The petrol­ A XI. driven strimmer which we presented to him will be The Trinity Term has seen the end of many the envy of many another Houseman in Sherborne. familiar faces, some more so than others, together We wish him well in his retirement. with a vast amount of hair, and we wish all leavers well in the future. Ed Ferguson

74 The Green

As the sun shone down upon Sherbome as a whole, it shone even more brightly upon The Green and its ever­ growing trophy collection. The Green's sporting domination continued under the watchful eye of Mr. Cleaver, who led by example, captaining the Bow House XI to an almost unbeaten season. The A Leagues Trophy was duly collected, as was the B Leagues Cup (after a 10 wicket victory). The Green stormed to victory on Sports Day and in the House Relays - with not a Harper victory in sight! At least six boys played regular A team cricket, with many close behind in the B teams. Tim Percival opened the batting for the 1st XI, and Tim Clark took over four wickets per match in the Colts A XI. Graeme Hall was the outstanding athlete, breaking lhe 25-year-old School Intermediate 200 metre record at the Nationals. Sam Toogood captained lhe U 14 Athletics teams; he also represented the School at the T.S.B. Nationals together with Johnny Porter. Dom Guppy represented Dorset in the U 16 IOOm. Toby Couzens was Captain of Golf, Rhys James was the U 16 Swimming team Captain, and Pete Miles was in the Ul4 1st Tennis pair and, last but not least, Stu Endacott got his brown belt in Kung Fu. On the music front, the all-Green brass section of the Rockin' Honkies - Dom, Tom and Ed - played at the Leavers' Ball and at Commemoration, when the Green Band also entertained us all at the House Lunch. The exams reached the same excellent standards, with all the Upper Sixth attaining good enough grades at A level to gain entry to University - the most outstanding being Jock Fraser with three A grades. The Fifth Form gained fifty-one A grades, with Rhys James at the top of the list with eight A and three B grades. And so another busy, action-packed term in The Green drew to a close. Thanks, as ever, go to Mr. Cleaver (and his tennis-playing daughters!), Mrs. Cleaver, Matron, Joan, Ernie and all the Domestic Staff for such an efficiently run House.

Tom Scott

75 Harper House This term marked the end of an era. Mr. Jones, with his wife and two children, left Harper having seen the successes of the last eleven years far outweigh the occasional failure. Despite not being a 'vintage' term, it was by no means a bad way to go. We had six members of the 1st XI: Jonty Butler, Jonty Ambrose, Spike Worrall, Chris Hattam, Nick Hyde and Simon Johnson. Regrettably, this did little for us in the Senior House Cricket Competition, where we were knocked out in the first round by Lyon. Dave Thomas captained the 1st VI tennis team, having played in it since the Fifth Form. We finished in a respectable position in the House Athletks and had two Fourth-formers and a Third-former representing the School in the T.S.B. National Schools' Athletics Competition at Sheffield: Ollie McMullen, Rieb Hattam and Chris Pidgeon. Ollie still retained his position even after having four no-throws in a competition earlier on in the term! The House Concert at half-term gave everyone a chance to see how musically talented and funny we really were ... The Swing Band made a surprise entry at the end to play the Welsh National Anthem, accompanied by the House tutors, led by Dr. Ferrario, singing in Welsh. Sadly, Dr. Ferrario left us as Head Tutor at the end of term to be replaced by Mr. Reynolds who has been warmly welcomed into the House. There was a splendid buffet lunch laid on in the Digby HalJ for Commem, which most boys and parents attended. Mr. Greenwood spoke eloquently and amusingly, whilst Messrs. Jones and Ferrario both gave moving farewells. Mr. Jones was presented with a T.V., video, Hi-fi, a cheque and a flight to Canada, all of which were bought from donations. In his A levels, Stu Patterson did not slacken after he received his two-E offer from Cambridge, and gained four A grades. Steve Temple managed to get three; Jay Gardner topped the GCSE results in the House with his ten As and Rob Clark passed his grade 6 viola exam with Merit. We look forward to an equally successful era under Mr. Allen as those eleven silver-laden years with Mr. Jones.

Charlie Warren

76 Wallace House Let us work in reverse chronological order. This term began with Mr. Haigh broadcasting the A level results to the House, much to the humiliation of younger siblings, in a vain hope of inspiring the Upper Sixth to work. As he was to tell us in a later house assembly, this was a 'homily'. For the benefit of most of the House and those who do not have as secure a grasp on the English language as the erudite1 SPHH, this is a diatribe2• The GCSE results were formidable. Matt Priestley, being the angel that he is, scored a huge number of starred As, which means that he is even more sagacious3 than everyone thought already. There is one undeniable problem with having to write a house report in October, when the events one is reporting happened in July: no one can remember a thing. Perhaps the common Wallacian memory failure elucidates4 the abnormal A level results ... Touring around the House to find what triumphant events Wallacians would like to proclaim to the World, l have just encountered Buddy Holly, amongst others, who seems to have taken up permanent residence in South Street. Oddly enough, his arrival coincided with the disappearance of Rupert MacLaren, last seen puffing on his (bag)pipe in Poyntington. We also hear rumours from some impressed Arabians who report that the aforementioned Scottish laddie achieved the top mark in the country in Arabic oral GCSE. They don't call him Rupert 'Supergun' MacLaren for nothing. Once again Hugo made his mark on the House last term by waking up Mr. Haigh at 2.30 a.m. (a feat often attempted, but never equalled by the Upper Sixth with their fire alarm infatuations). It may come as a surprise to many to find that SPHH was actually asleep at the time, but Mr. Haigh would like to assure us all that he does, indeed , sleep quotidianlys. It should be noted that to balance his crimes Hugo also baked cakes for community service. To satisfy those who wish to be noted, I will now list just a few of those events achieved last term: Ed Harris-Hughes got a brace; Will Bryer rode a horse (he is fond of springing surprises on us all) and won a BHS One Day Event; Rich Woodhouse did 'lots of things' (but then again too few to mention); Tom Brown won a national competition for BBC Music Technology, with Paddy Kernohan second. Chris Bennett passed his driving test; Charlie Milton didn't; nor did Will Bryer (hence the equine transport); James Neill won an Army Scholarship; Mark Woolston attained a certificate of distinction in a mathematics competition; Chris Bennett, Aidan Siggers and Charlie Milton completed their silver Duke of Edinburgh; and that about does it for the non-sporty events. ln the sporty event list, I think Wallace have broken a house record for athletic accomplishment. Ed Benbow played As Cricket; Rich 'lots of things' Woodhouse remembered that obtaining his 3rd XI colours was one of those things; Ed Bellew played for the lst XI; Balth captained the Junior Colts Tennis; Berty Stanley came second out of 22 in a pistol shooting competition at Bisley; Ed House sailed for the 3rds. Meanwhile, Vicki just sailed, having learnt how to in the Easter holidays. We also had an excellent athletics team, which unfortunately did not come to fruition as most of them took time off one night to prove that they could not even walk in a straight line, let alone run in one. Mark Harrison would also like to let y,ou all know that he helped the Mini Colts As win a county championship cricket competition. Well done, Mark. It has been a good year for all. The present Fourth Form are apparently psychologically unharmed by not having experienced the reign of the Antipodean6 Fishers, but merely the epoch of the anticuous7 Haigh, which I suppose is a good sign. To close, I should like to wish you all, on behalf of the house, a serendipitous revelry8. Ed Dowding

1 Learned, academic 1 Sermon, preaching 1 Pretty damn good 4 Clarifies, solves 5 Daily 6Australian 7 Mischievous 8 An ebullient time with much inebriation and jOC1fndity

77 Abbeylands Traditionally, the Abbeylander devotes much of his Summer Term to devising various unconventional uses for the house croquet set (or remains of) and the garden and its vicinity which, it has to be said, does rather lend itself to activities which might be deemed 'hazardous'. Hampered by unremitting bouts of poor weather, however, many turned their hands to more constructive pursuits, which may, in part, account for the commendable achievements of this term. Despite a sizeable proportion of the House applying themselves unstintingly Gregory and Ed Hadley to important exams, a came second in the wealth of athletic, Dorset U 17 200m and cultural and creative 3,000m respectively. talent ensured that there Well done too to would_be subst~ntial Hugo Shiriey, ~ho material on which I came fourth in the might base this resume. Dorset Ul7 400m. The U17 athletes In the musical staged an excellent sphere, a very talented ptherformance and won Adam Skinner came a e cup. d" bl ff h · h Congratulations are also ere tta .e 1 t ~ t e in order for Nick and BBC Rad1~ ~ Nattonal Tim Maciver on their Compet1uon for the victory in the Senior 'Composition of Pairs' Tennis Electronic Music'. Competition, which Abbeylands' other furnished the musicians also mantelpiece with yet collaborated to amass a another silver vessel. mammoth £250 to Perhaps most praise, contribute to the however, should be School's Lent Project. heaped on the Third Surpassing even this Form who, as a group, was the £570.33 raised brought away the through that incredibly Athletics Standards humorous publication, Cup. Nick Wood Landmark. Thank you stormed in first to win very much Ben Shirley, the Dorset U17 800m, Andy Dibben and came 10th in a national Howard Johnston for competition and also being such amusing broke the School's editors. This money, record for the 800 m. too, was donated to the Will Hadley was Lent Project. victorious in the Dorset Open 3,000m. Tom Ed Rushton

78 Lyon House The Summer Term of 1994 in Lyon House was spent, by many, sifting through notes as the Fifth Form and Upper Sixth prepared for public exams. (The occasional whisper was also audible from the T. V. room as Ireland edged nearer and nearer to World Cup glory.) This frantic revision would certainly have appeared to have paid off for almost half the Upper Sixth, as no fewer than seven candidates achieved at least two As. Congratulations are surely due to Rob Eaglesham, Nick Edouard and Matt Knowles, but especially to Andy Cruise (4 As), Toby Hopkin (4 As) and Peter Richards (3 As). The GCSE results were not quite up to the standard set by the Upper Sixth; nevertheless, Richard Keightley managed 7 As and Andy Searson 8 As, with Giles Smallwood, Neil Duncan and Robin Carvell all being awarded one of these newfangled starred As. On the cricket field the House was represented admirably: Phil Harvey and Whiston Bristow both played for the 1st XI and Giles Smallwood, Andy Searson, Ed Elliot-Square, Matt Hawkins and Ollie Kelly all had permanent places in their respective year groups' A sides. Tom Davies went to the National Athletics Championships at Sheffield and the footballing 'faithful', Nick Paulson-Ellis and Al Lowe, honed their skills on the Prep School pitch, while Nick Walmsley patrolled the sidelines collecting autographs on his arm! Our A Leagues cricket team went unbeaten until they threw it all away in the final against The Green and, for the first time in twenty years, Lyon was victorious in the swimming pool, snatching glory at Mr. Hatch's last attempt. It was near to being the hottest summer of all time, but there was no holding back those War-Gaming gurus of the Fourth Form as they 'wielded their axes in anger, creating havoc throughout the opposing space marine ranks' (thanks for the lingo, Alex Edouard). As the days get shorter and term draws to a close, and as many leavers eagerly await Phil's 18th, spare a thought for the new Third Form leaving prep. school who face a mere five years at the ranch - with that in mind, what better way to end than with the words of Rob Eaglesham:- Yaaaah !

Andrew Searson

79 Westcott The summer returned, and Westcott hummed again with its characteristic madness, fuelled by DPKC. AJi was Head of House, our athletes and cricketers (the captains of which sport were both Wescottians) were out in force, and exams loomed. As the sun came out, the Westcott bargeyard came alive with 'the new season' and the footbalJ returned to the patch along with the 'taJemed' Upper Sixth. At the second attempt the house photo went ahead, but the whereabouts of the house tortoises were still unknown, so at haJf-term, Mr. Carling announced his intention to travel to their native province, Assam, in India, to find them, (and took a Headmaster's post there too). All were saddened to hear the news of his departure and the farewell tributes came thick and fast. We also faced the departure of a successful Upper Sixth and various other popular individuals. Exams came and went and celebrations began. The House relaxed as Commem. approached. Everyone was kept busy up to the last minute, though, with school and house activities: matches, dinners, concerts, plays and so on. The term drew to a close with the House dinner in which Westcott bade a fond farewell to Mr. and Mrs. Carling. The news of his successor left us hopeful, however: a new Westcott was to be shaped by Mr. Cameron in the winter ..

Andy Braxton

80 The Digby

As the last luggage-laden car cruised comfortingly out of sight, and the dust gradually began to settle, The Digby experienced a calm it had not known for many weeks. The Trinity Term of 1994 had ended and the House looked back over the various ups and downs it had witnessed ... Both the Upper Sixth and the Fifth Form had a fruitful term, studying hard for their respective A levels and GCSEs. A hard-working atmosphere prevailed, not only in these year-groups, but throughout the House. I am sure that everybody's efforts will be justly rewarded, and that exam results will be almost as good as suntans gained through hours of diligent revision. It was not, however, an 'all-work-and-no-play' term, with Andy Nurton earning his colours in the 1st XI, backed up by Chris Martin and Graham Lawes in the 2nds. Jamie Prendergast, Mark Simon and Nick Chuter all made it into the top teams of the junior years, due to their prowess on the cricket pitch. Bob Moncreiff captained the 2nds tennis, while Tim Franklin, Dave Morgan and Cokey Sulk in proved that The Digby has a bright tennis-playing future, by making the grade on court. Dave Rigg captained the swimming team, while Al Loxton and John Rigg also proved invaluable in the water. Jason Cox was, of course, prominent in the athletics department, while Simon Wilsey represented our junior interests on the track. On the musical front, Bob Moncreiff and Andrew Webster were in the orchestra and the choir, Giles Mildred was in the orchestra, Simon Gardener in the choir, and Dave Morgan in the Swing Band. The Digby once again proved its worth, both on and behind the stage, with Chris Martin and Andy Crouch in the Girls' School's Pygmalion, while Marc Munden and Ed Lock provided the all-important technical support for Waiting for Godot. The term was not all immeasurable joy, however, as The Digby had to wave a fond farewell to a lively Upper Sixth year and several Fifth-formers. Also leaving were Ralph, the caretaker, and, of course, Mr. Hollands, who made way for a more aerodynamic in-house tutor, in the form of Mr. Spicer. Thanks should undoubtedly go to Mrs. Morgan and Matron for all the support they offered to everyone throughout the term . . . . and so, it was with a contented sense of relief that the House looked forward to a long and well­ deserved Summer holiday, having proved once again that The Digby is unrivalled as a great all-rounder of a House.

Ru Dalton

81