Aldenhamiana ISSUE 42 October 2014
News from the OA Society News from the School Letters from OAs First World War Centenary Tribute Obituaries and tributes from the Editor
‘At this time of international warfare, we feel uncomfortably unique in publishing a magazine Aldenhamiana in which cricket, football and all No.42 October 2014 Published by The Old Aldenhamian Society other phases of our life are Aldenham School, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AJ UK reported…’ Email: [email protected] Web: www.oldaldenhamian.org hese are the opening lines taken Tel: +44 (0)1923 858 122 from the Editorial of the TAldenhamian, October 1914. Eerily, they still seem so relevant today. One hundred years ago, on 4th August 1914, Great Britain declared war on Germany. The declaration was binding on all Dominions within the British Empire Contents including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India and South Africa. At the outbreak of war, the ground around the Lower field was ploughed up to plant potatoes to largely 2 From the OA Society increase the home-grown food supply of the School. Out of the 950 Aldenhamians and staff of Aldenham 2 From the President’s Desk School who served their country during the conflict, one hundred and sixty three died. The last day of the First World 3 aldenham.net War was November 11th 1918, known as Armistice Day. 4 OA Day The following resolution was carried unanimously at a Special General Meeting of the OAS held on Dec. 12th 1917: 6 Annual OA Dinner 2013 ‘That the memorial to those OAs and Aldenham masters 10 Sport who have given their lives in the war, shall take the form of a large School Hall and Library, but that the trustees of the fund shall be given power to provide grants out of the fund to assist the education at Aldenham of sons of OAs who 15 From the School require it through circumstances consequent on the war.’ Circulars were sent out to OAs inviting subscriptions to 15 Letter from the Headmaster the Aldenham School War Memorial Library and almost immediately, £2,943 17s.9d. was received in cash and 16 Exam results securities and a further £956 12s.8d. promised. The huge 20 The Letchmore Trust Art Prizes response from OAs, parents and friends of Aldenham School equated to over £900,000 in today’s money. Next time you are at the School, take a look again at the 26 News and features rows of bronze plaques in the Chapel commemorating some of those men and masters of Aldenham School who fell and are still remembered by family and friends. 26 Letters and events I offer my grateful appreciation to my team – Hugh 31 Forms for forthcoming events Schermuly (M1974-79), Sara Price (CR1987-2006), Ann Saffery and Jackie Wilkie (both Development and OA 35 First World War Centenary Tribute Office) and toHeather Sherman for some of the photos. 48 Mentoring As we approach November 11th 2014, let us recall the words of Robert Laurence Binyon, ‘They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them.’ 49 Obituaries and tributes James James-Crook (M1968-72) 49 List of Deaths editor, OA Review email: [email protected] 50 Obituaries and tributes 2 From the OA Society
From the President’s Desk I am writing this foreword on the morning of the result of the Scottish vote on independence, and with considerable relief that common sense has prevailed and that the United Kingdom remains intact.
mong the many aspects of the march to war due to a complex network grants and events for the OA Society campaigning I noted was the of defence alliances in 1914 has parallels members, many of these in close Asignificant impact of younger with the Ukraine-Russia fracas and the association with the School. We are voters and I was impressed with their impact of non-state actors, such as ISIL. grateful to the many individuals who passion, their willingness to listen to the This situation surely highlights the need have supported the Society and its arguments and then turn out to vote in for us to remain vigilant and strong, events over its 112 years of existence considerable numbers. It was a level of both as a country and as part of a wider and I am often told how much our engagement of young people NATO alliance. One could argue strongly magazine, OA Review, is valued by those unparalleled in our political system, that closer, not looser, ties between for whom it is a way of staying in touch maybe it will become a feature of UK countries are needed in these times with old friends, the School and the voting in the future? We shall see. of danger. Society’s events. Closer to home, the Society is making I will not try to summarise the many However, I would urge older Society a real effort to engage with its younger successful OA events of the year, these members to recognise that the benefits alumni members by engaging with the are covered very well in the Review but of their ‘life’ subscription, for example Sixth Form before they leave the School it would be remiss of me not to record as low as 7 Guineas for “life” and forging a bond with the Society the hard work and dedication of the membership in the mid 1950s, which will last a lifetime. Our OA alumni team - Ann Saffery and Jackie effectively ran out several years ago. As sporting clubs, aldenham.net, our Wilkie - and the tremendous support we try to maintain the OA Society’s excellent website and e-newsletters, the Society has received from excellent work both for OAs and in combined with the offer of early and Headmaster James Fowler and the support of the School, I will be writing mid-career mentoring, are all part of School staff in 2013/14. My thanks also individually to these members to ask for our initiatives in this area while also to the OA Committee and in particular their support for the work of the Society, ensuring we retain the loyalty and this year to our Honorary Secretary, so ably outlined in this year’s OA Review. support of our older members. Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58), who has Therefore if you are able to help the This year’s OA Review focuses on the overcome many challenges and OA Society with a modest annual beginning of the Great War during which frustrations to bring our attractive new contribution by standing order, or by nearly a million British and Empire OA pin badge into commission. providing a legacy, please do so because soldiers died. The scale of the sacrifice is We rely heavily on subscriptions from this income is critical and allows us to unimaginable in today’s wars but its new members and occasional legacies to continue to meet the changing needs of lessons are still relevant. The inexorable provide the wide range of services, the OA community now and for generations to come. Finally, my thanks on your behalf, to oa Committee members the Review’s editorial team who have worked so hard to bring you this high Neil Sutherland OBE President quality and very interesting alumni Derick Burlingham Johnson Vice President journal. I hope you enjoy reading it. Michael Taylor CBE DL Vice President Frank Rogers Hon. Secretary Neil Sutherland OBE (B1966-70) Richard Peart Hon. Treasurer President Ian Luetchford Committee Member John Edwards Committee Member James James-Crook Committee Member David Hayes Committee Member Indra Sikdar (Committee Member proposed) Nick Pulman Committee Member James Fowler Headmaster OA Society pin badge From the OA Society 3
Chris Chittleborough (L1998-2003), left with Jay Joshi (L1996-2003), centre & Toks Sotande-Peters (K1996-2003)
aldenham.net
It was encouraging to see 15 OAs get together for an after work drink at the Lamb Tavern, Leadenhall Market, EC3 on Wednesday 21st May.
The evening offered an ideal opportunity Neil Sutherland (B1966-70), President of The welcome drinks were sponsored by to network professionally and to catch the OA Society, gave an informal address the School and the OA Society. If you up with School friends, some of whom to remind members about the would like to be invited next time, hadn’t seen each other for over invaluable OA Mentoring scheme and please join aldenham.net by contacting 10 years and several making new OA the importance of continued the Development and OA Office. acquaintances. membership of the Society. Mark Reis But where were all the OA City girls? (B1979-84) was the lucky winner of the Tel: 01923 851 612 Surely there must be some OA women business card draw and was delighted to Email: [email protected] working in the capital who would have take home a copy of the history book, enjoyed the occasion and what can we Aldenham School – A Foundation for do to attract you to the next event? Success.
Mark Reis (B1979-84) left chats to Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58) Hon. Secretary Toks Sotande-Peters (K1996-2003) holds court with the Headmaster and Dev Jadva (L1998-2003) 4 From the OA Society
opportunity to review pictures from the past, purchase memorabilia and study a substantial display of publications OA Day written by OAs. Anthony Wood (SHE1954-59) showed copies of his recently published memoir, which School House Gaudy 2014 includes a chapter on his time at Aldenham and attracted much interest. After coffee it was off to Chapel for a he weather was perfect for the This annual event included a School rousing thanksgiving service taken by the return of over 140 OAs, former House reunion with both School House School’s new Chaplain, Padre Simon Tstaff and friends of Aldenham to Evens (Leeman’s) and School House Chapman, with readings by Hanif OA Day on Sunday 8th June 2014. Odds (Riding’s) being well represented Moledina (SHO1982-87) and Emily The warm sunshine brought smiles by former pupils, from as far back as Gratton (CR2008-Present). James Fowler, to every face as guests remembered the 1936 to as recently as 2013, and staff Headmaster, and Michael Taylor CBE DL times they spent at the School. Stories past and present. (SHE1956-61), Vice President of the OA were told and memories shared creating The day began with coffee in the Society, then welcomed guests for drinks a wonderful atmosphere of nostalgic setting of the Library. Between in School House Garden, an area that thoughtfulness and laughter. sips and chatter there was an was out of bounds during School days.
message board
Messages were sent by those who could Dennis W Robinson (SHO1947-51) Alex Hancock (L1987-92) not be present and are printed here: Best wishes to all at the school. Many Sadly away but wish you every success. changes since my days – lucky present Great memories! Alan Grieve (SHE1940-45) pupils and staff. Looked out my OA blazer I wish I could revisit School House. Many recently for my son’s use at a 40’s/50’s John Burns (SHO1953-58) memories, mostly good, some not so good. party; he was quite looking forward to Regards to my contemporaries, especially Sadly I am one of a dwindling band wearing it! in Odds. remembering Aldenham in the war. A David Massey (SHE1943-47) Bill Waite (CR1983-2002) Roger Topping (SHO1951-55) I wish you all a happy and successful day. I hope everyone has a good time. Richard Westcott Hello. Unable to be with you due to poor health and age; so unable to score all the runs Jonathan Coates (SHO1964-69 John Knight DL (SHE1941-46) and take all the wickets!!?? & CR1997-2002) Best wishes for a happy day – sorry not to As an inmate of School House Odds for a be present, the journey from West Sussex Dave Gooderick (CR1990-2006) great 5 years I would have been very is a bit daunting. Very best wishes to Leeman’s & Riding’s pleased to be there, but it is not possible. students who remember me from the Fives I hope all goes well and that the sun shines Anthony Thomson (SHO1954-58) court or the classroom, I have good and a good time is had by all. I am so disappointed that I will be unable memories of you. to attend as I was looking forward to it so Chris Joel (SHO1946-51) much. I am afraid I am having problems Dale Morgan (SHO1967-69) I have nothing but very happy memories of with my eyesight and a long journey from Gutted not to be able to attend due to a my time at Aldenham, the school which I Cornwall is impossible, I am sure it will be a holiday and missing the chance of seeing attended with my twin brother John. We great day for you all. old friends. Still living & working locally. were day boys living in Radlett cycling in every day to and from home. Our two older Lord Vincent (SHE1945-50) Christopher Beale OBE (SHE1953-59) brothers also attended the school before us. I hope you all enjoy a memorable day and Sadly I cannot be with you as I am joining regret that I shall be unable to join you. the D-Day Commemorations in Normandy. Jay Thakrar (R2000-05) My very best wishes to you all, especially I am extremely disappointed I will miss out Thomas Ash (SHO & R1990-93) the Headmaster and the OA Office and to because meeting old chums topped off by Warm wishes to my friends in School all my contemporaries who will be present cricket is my idea of a perfect day, but I will House and hope everyone is flourishing. at a very different Aldenham from that of be leaving for my honeymoon the day 1953; especially those, who like me, will look before. Mike St Aubyn (SHO1944-48) back with much gratitude to five years in the All good wishes to those of my years. care of Donald Parren (CR1943-61). Have a Richard Berkeley (SHO1967-72) Sorry I cannot be with you to spin a few wonderful day, filled with happy memories. Alas I am now unable to attend, a great tall tales. disappointment. However, I hope everyone Andrew Boxer (SHO1963-68) has a splendid day. John Flood (SHO1942-46) Best wishes to anyone who was in School Greetings to my old friends, if any of you House in the 1960’s, especially actors and are still alive! footballers. From the OA Society 5
In the afternoon everyone enjoyed touring the School looking for familiar places and discovering new haunts. Eventually they gathered for tea and to watch a celebration cricket match. The 20/20 game saw School House Odds (Riding’s) v School House Evens (Leeman’s), with Odds/Riding’s winning by 19 Runs - the final score was Ridings 127-6 (20 overs), Leemans 108-10. The teams included 6 OAs on each side and were made up to full complement by current pupils and members of staff.
The Dining Hall was full to capacity and the delicious lunch was very well received. New friendships were forged and existing ones strengthened whilst there was lots of reminiscing around the tables. The current Housemaster of Riding’s, Andy Stephenson (CR1999-Present), and then Housemistress of Leeman’s, Emily Gratton (CR2008-present), now Paull’s, invited guests to look round their respective Houses. Some OAs who had boarded in School House, which now offers only daytime accommodation for pupils, found their bed spaces taken up by desks in the Marketing, Development and OA Office. 6 From the OA Society
OA Annual Dinner 2013 Over 100 Old Aldenhamians gathered for the OA Society Annual Dinner at their old School on Friday 22nd Richard November 2013. Platt Society uests were received with a drink journey and it was at Aldenham that I in the familiar setting of the discovered my love for the teaching Members of the Richard GLibrary where Ruth Alinek profession, which has been a great part Platt Society have all (CR1978-82) gave a very entertaining of my life. After a tricky start, I soon kindly left a gift in their and thought provoking pre-dinner talk came to feel part of the ‘family’ – about her time at Aldenham as the first welcomed and accepted by the boys and Will to the School. (and only) female member of the most of the masters alike”. Common Room. Ruth gained sympathy David Wright (SHO1976-81) had ichard Platt himself left orders in from her audience when she explained organised a reunion of Aldenham old his Will for the establishment of that there were no ‘ladies’ facilities’ and boys (now celebrating their 50th Rthe School to acknowledge his fortunately the cleaners took pity on her birthdays) who had known Ruth as a own fortune. Whatever the reason and and gave her the key to their loo! There ‘young’ teacher. It was a joy to see their whatever the gift, a commitment of this were a few raised eyebrows when she faces as they got together to reminisce sort will provide the School with a regaled the benefits of single sex and hear about their teacher’s secure Bursaries Fund and enable it to education for girls, expressed her experiences. offer academic, cultural and sporting feminist and socialist ideals and her The Dining Hall looked splendid and facilities which will attract the quality strong belief in grammar schools. She a delicious meal was served beautifully of student that is synonymous with finished however by stating that she to everyone’s delight. The four courses Aldenham. owes much to the experience she gained were accompanied by lots of chatter and If you would like more information in the late ‘70s at Aldenham: debates, no doubt sparked by our please contact Ann Saffery, “Women and men have come a long pre-dinner speaker and the 24 hour Development & OA Manager way since I began my educational music Play-in which had preceded the [email protected] or go to the
Development pages of the School Paul Spencer (CR1985-Present) with the Philippines collection bucket surrounded by OAs website www.aldenham.com.
Richard Platt, 1600, aged 76 From the OA Society 7
event at the School to raise money for celebration, on OA Day in June, of 32 24 hour Play in had already exceeded its the Philippines Typhoon Appeal. years since the first girls joined the fundraising target and was well on the Neil Sutherland OBE (B1966-70), OA Society. way to reaching £10,000 which was an President, congratulated all those In response James Fowler, amazing achievement. present who had celebrated special Headmaster, said how delighted he was This popular event ended on a high, birthdays, including one OA who had to see so many OAs enjoying this with promises to increase the number in turned 21 recently and others who had wonderful occasion. He was pleased that their party next year, some guests become 50, 60 & 70 years young. He OAs had been able to support the preparing to continue the celebration thanked the organisers and those who School’s impromptu fundraising efforts, out on the town and others retiring had made up tables from members of and especially thanked those who had gracefully and homeward bound. the OA Football Club, OA Golf Society, been present in the early hours of the Numbers attending this popular OA Fives, and contemporaries from the morning, when there were performances event have doubled since it returned to late ‘70s and the late ‘90s – early ‘00s. He by Carl Rennie (M2003-10) and Duncan School in 2009 and the advice is to book particularly welcomed the 5 OA girls, as Fraser (M1998-2005), both of whom early in future to avoid disappointment. there has been a focus this year on were also at the Dinner, as were several This year’s OA Dinner, on Friday 21st Aldenham’s successful journey into OAs who had gone along to watch the November 2014, will begin with a becoming fully co-educational and a proceedings. James announced that the reception in The Wells Centre and Canon Joe Hawes (SHO1978-83) has
Norma & Ian Luetchford (B1948-51) & Cynthia & Tony Hunt (B1949-54) been invited as the pre-dinner speaker. For further details see p.32 and back cover.
Georgia Collins (P2003-05), Lucy Luff (P2003-05), Kate Heywood (P2003-05), Sophie Chong (P2003-05) & Jennie Gibson (P2003-05)
The Speaker : Ruth Alinek (CR1978-82) 8 From the OA Society
Regional Lunch in Surrey
OA ties were out in force for a Regional Lunch at Stovells Derrick Swain (SHE1956-60), Dev restaurant in Chobham, Surrey. Anand (K1967-70), Dick Hall (K1969- 74), Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58), Geoffrey Dunn (M1947-50), James nce again we were able to The Headmaster, James Fowler joined James-Crook (M1968-72), Jeremy arrange private dining for the 31 the OAs for their lunch and enjoyed Gardner (M1953-58), John Edwards Oguests in this superb restaurant. chatting to them all about their (B1946-51), John Glazier (P1944-48), The unique environment of a grade II experiences at the School in times gone John Handcock (SHE1944-47), Michael listed, 16th Century, Tudor farmhouse by. The ages ranged from 49 – 90, with Craft (B1958-63), Mike Handcock was perfect for the occasion and the Christopher Leigh-Hunt (B1936-40), the (SHE1945-49), Philip Chippindale contemporary European menu offered a most senior OA present reciting the (SHE1963-66), Richard Bolt (M1945-48), choice of dishes that suited all tastes School Grace in Latin as if he were Robert Gardiner (M1945-49), Robin and requirements. indeed still at School! Chaventre (M1949-52), Tim Law The venue this time came (M1945-51), Tony Engel (P1956-59), recommended by Tony Engel (P1956-59) OAs who attended: Bryan Robson William Godfree (K1967-72) and it turned out to be a very popular (M1949-53), Christopher Leigh-Hunt choice, thank you Tony. (B1936-40), Clive Simeons (SHE1952-56), Regional Lunch in Kent Another very successful Regional Lunch was enjoyed on Wednesday 7th May by OAs and their guests in Goudhurst, Kent.
he lunch was preceded by a visit to Finchcocks Musical Museum, where TOAs gathered in the beautiful grounds of a Grade 1 listed, early Georgian manor. The museum houses a celebrated To see more pictures and names of those who attended, log onto the OAS website and click on collection of over 100 historical keyboard Event Galleries. instruments and we were delighted to hear some of these being played by the private dining room for the occasion. This event was another memorable proprietors and our own guests, including The most senior OA present was Robin occasion and I’m sure that those the Headmaster, James Fowler. Sharp (B1937-42) who made an attending for the first time will make A splendid lunch was served at The excellent job of reciting the School Grace sure they return for more when the Green Cross Inn, which provided a before the meal. opportunity arises. From the OA Society 9
Old Aldenhamian Society Colours The Old Aldenhamian Society was founded on 9 April 1902 and, subsequent to the first general meeting of the Society held on 26 July of the same year, a minute stated “On the proposal of H Taylor, it was agreed that the question of the old Aldenhamian Colours should be dealt with by E Beevor (CR1899-1922), Herbert Edward Gilbert (CR1899-1933), Edgar Henry Marriette (CR1889-1914), and John Richards Paull (CR1892-1925).”
t a subsequent meeting it was McGill’s House was built in 1887 any definitive documentation it would agreed that their proposals followed by Beevor’s House in 1895. be welcomed. Ashould be accepted without any Once again there is no reference in The OA Society has just produced a details or reasoning being minuted. Evans’ History of Aldenham School to any high quality OA Society pin badge which The only reference to Colours specific colours being linked to either of follows the original design and this was thereafter is a note that appeared the two new houses just a reference to given to all School leavers 2014 who following each subsequent AGM of the the “straw hat” ribbons, “Odds and Evens became members of the OA Society. OAS which stated that “OA Colours are had a dark blue and black one and the The badge is now available for available from Geo. Lewin & Co. 8 other Houses had their House Colours.” members to buy (see details on the Crooked Lane, Cannon St. EC”. The However, he could not determine when OA Society website). current outfitters T.M Lewin have no the Evens pink originated. record of any association with School House had been divided into Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58) Geo. Lewin. Odds and Evens to allow there to be a Hon.Sec. OA Society Having searched in both the Registers similar number of pupils in each House and the Aldenhamian for the years of for the purpose of inter House 1895 until 1918 there is no further competitions. evidence of the Colours being The OA Society, set the task of mentioned. However some information recommending the Colours group, would was found from the History of Aldenham only have considered the Houses that School by R.J. Evans (CR1916-52). existed at that time - School House, The first reference to colours Odds, Evens, McGill’s and Beevor’s. occurred in a letter written by Harold Paull’s House was built in 1905. Taylor (SH1872-82). In referring to The other factor to help in playing football he mentions that “they establishing the main Colours of the OA wore thick blue and white sweaters.” I football club, founded in 1905, were blue wonder if this is the same H. Taylor who and black halved shirts, blue socks with raised the question of the OA Society black tops. These Colours were used for OA BOW TIE Colours at the first general meeting? around 75 years. Blue and white quarters shirts were The main Colours of dark blue and OA ties may be purchased from the worn until the 1960s. black became the principal Colours of School shop, Stevensons. R.J. Evans also wrote that John the tie and the other coloured stripes Tel: 01727 814 368 Kennedy (Headmaster 1877-99) represent Evens (red) McGill’s (yellow) Email: [email protected] established a standardised dress code and Beevor’s (red). or the School shop Mon – Fri 1pm – 4pm which included the tradition of all The black and dark blue Colours are during term time. schoolboys wearing straw hats with a separated by one narrow red stripe special blue and white ribbon for the which is taken to represent Evens. Sixth Form and dark blue and black The yellow and red stripes that appear ribbon for the rest of the School. A below the blue broad stripe are taken to custom of the white and blue ribbon represent McGill’s and Beevor’s and the was still in use during the 1950s to sequence of the stripes reflect the order denote School Praepostors. in which the Houses were built. The School Colours, being dark blue The conclusion does rely on and black lead, meant that these were evidence and supposition rather than the Colours for School House when documented fact and if any OA has 10 From the OA Society
Old Aldenhamian Football Club Season 2013/14
Nick Baker (K1982-87), OA Recruitment and Development Off the pitch we have had a good influx Coach, reported on a fantastic 7-1 win for the OA 1st XI of young players including James Greensmith (K2008-13), Jack Jones against Old King’s Scholars on Saturday 2nd November 2013. (L2011-13) and Rishi Popat (R2008-13). We have also integrated a couple of ll the stops were pulled out to OAFC Annual Report current students Tilk Malhotra (B2003- ensure this match was not lost Martyn Berg (B1989-94) presented to 14), Florian Berberich (K2012-14), and Aand huge congratulations must the OA Society AGM: “I would like to James Stowell (L2007-14). They have go to two players who scored the 7 goals convey my sincere thanks to Neil held their own and put in some great between them. Gareth Thomas (K2004- Sutherland OBE (B1966-70), President, performances, especially Tilk, who 09) and Matthew Hudson (M2005-10) Frank Rogers (SHE1953-58), Honorary scored a memorable goal for the 2nd played a most pivotal role in this Secretary and the OA Society Committee team in that Old Carthusians IIs match. important match and Chairman of the for their support this season. It really Probably the greatest asset of all has OAFC, Martyn Berg (B1989-94) said: has been greatly appreciated. been that of Roy Hanshaw, Head of “It was a very strong team effort with It has been a very mixed season on Grounds and Gardens. He is, without every player giving his all to clinch the pitch. Both teams have been very doubt, the jewel in our crown. We are this success”. inconsistent, with the 1st team not continually complimented on our The Team: Elliott Edwards (L2005-10), performing well in the league until pitches and it is a testament to Roy that, Adam Caesari (P2000-07), Tom Hall recently but achieving the great feat of rain or shine, he always pulls out the (B2000-07), Thomas Beckley (M2006-10), reaching the final of the London Old stops to get the games played. Andre Sharma (L2001-06), Rob Blackman Boys Challenge Cup. The 2nd team have Thanks again to James Fowler, (P2003-08), Jack Jones (L2011-13), Sam had a few positive results, including a Headmaster, Nick Pulman (Senior Kaye (P2001-08), Gareth Thomas 3-3 draw with title favourites Old Master 1977-Present) and Grant (K2004-09), Matthew Hudson (M2005- Carthusian IIs but, on the whole, they Cornock (CR2009-Present) for their 08), Yohei Otsuka (P1998-2003), Martyn have struggled to maintain the high invaluable support. Our link to the Berg (B1989-94), Patrick Harding (L1997- standard set last season with their School feels stronger than ever and I 2002), Hamoun Jamali (L2003-08). promotion. hope we can continue to build on that.”
Martyn Berg taking a free kick resulting in a 40 yard diagonal pass to set up a goal scoring chance which Jack Gibbins (R2007-14) saves. Jasper Gruenewald (P&M2003-10) is standing next to Martyn. From the OA Society 11
1ST XI in the orange shirts and OAs in the striped shirts From left to right: Back Row: Grant Cornock (CR2009-), Tilk Malhottra (B2003-14), Jack Gibbins (R2007-14), George Uttley (L2007-14), Jahn Ramis (R200914-), Lee Tyrrell (R2010-14), Harry Copley (B2009-14), Jacob Haftel (R2007-14), Jordan Davis (R2008-), Nick Baker (K1982-87), David Cook (K2002-07), Martyn Berg (B1989-94), Adam Caesari (P2000-07), Matt Wallace (L2003-08), Jasper Gruenewald (M2003-10), Daniele Kitchen (B2009-11), Referee: Peter Gibbins (Current Parent) Front Row: Jonny Bryer (B2010-), Stephen Harris (B2010-), James Stowell (L2007-14), Florian Berberich K2012-14), Toby Milfull (R2007-14), Adam Williams (L2002-09), Andre Sharma (L2001-06), Manish Karani (R2001-06), Rishi Popat (R2008-13), James Greensmith (K2008-13), Sam Pennycook (CR2009-), Ben Weinberg (L2002-09)
Old Aldenhamian Football Results
The Arthurian League 03-May-14 Division 1 Old Westminsters I 2 Old Aldenhamians I 2 12-Apr-14 Division 1 Old King’s Scholars 0 Old Aldenhamians I 1 01-Mar-14 Division 1 Old Radleians 0 Old Aldenhamians I 3 06-Apr-14 Division 2 Old Haberdashers 2 Old Aldenhamians II 1 08-Feb-14 Division 2 Old Aldenhamians II 3 Old Haberdashers 5 11-Jan-13 Junior League Cup Old Foresters II 1 Old Aldenhamians II 2 14-Dec-13 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 0 Old Radleians 5 02-Nov-13 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 7 Old King’s Scholars 1 21-Sep-13 Division 1 Old Aldenhamians I 1 Old Westminsters I 1
Aldenham Fives Club Barber Cup: Aldenham vs St Olave’s
espite a valiant effort from 3-0 beating Chris Self and Sanjay Kundu. Aldenham’s six players, the OAs This was the first time the OAs had Dwere knocked out of the Barber entered the knockout competition in Cup Eton Fives competition by a strong many years and, although we had home St Olave’s team last October. advantage, St Olave’s competitive Fives OAs Josh Rose (B1994-99) and Carl experience shone through especially on Rennie (M2003-10) 1st pair; Rubel receiving the cut. Both first and second Mallik (B1996-2003) and Andrew pairs struggled to get the cuts up Rennie (M2006-13) 2nd pair; and consistently but when they did were Darshan Patel (R&K2006-12) and Nirav more than a match for their opposition. Patel (R2005-12) 3rd pair, battled hard Congratulations must go to Darshan but were beaten 1-2 overall. and Nirav on their 3-0 win. They took The OAs mostly faced some of the the first two games with relative ease game’s highly ranked players. Josh and but were set back on their heels in the Carl lost 0-3 to Pete Cohen and Dave third when St Olave’s took the first 4 Mew. Rubel and Andrew lost 1-3 to points. However, the left-handed duo Howard Wiseman and Will Phillips, while fought back to take the third game 14-11. cousins, Darshan and Nirav Patel won Phil Lyndon (K1976-81) 12 From the OA Society
Old Aldenhamian Golfing Society
“We had a great time at the Halford Hewitt this year although Williams & Easby could not quite it was such a shame Philip Marsh (M1958-60) and Tim overcome the opposition. So close and Stranack (SHE1952-56) were not with us. We all missed them very nearly a place in the Saturday field. As usual, there was a Dad’s Army of very much.” Ian Eggleden (SHE1958-63) OAGS Hon. Secretary. supporters. On Wednesday night, there were 25 OAs in the Beachbrow and a e had a great 3-2 win against However, they agreed a half because minute’s silence was held before dinner Liverpool in the first round. Peter Easby (SHE1962-66), at the equally for Philip Marsh and Tim Stranack. WThe first two pairs,Robert tender age of 64, was playing with our After dinner, an email from Dan Marsh Alter (B1988-91) & James Surridge captain Shon Williams (M1975-80) and (B1986-91) was read out and we had a (L1993-98), Nick Corbett (M1989-94) & sank an excellent putt on the 15th to rendition of Rindercella, the brilliant Joel Bloomfield (L1987-92), had win the match 4&3. spoonerism story about Cinderella emphatic wins whilst Adam Thrussell The same pairs but in a different originally told by Ronnie Barker. Phil (B1992-97) and David Rawlinson order suffered a narrow 2-3 defeat Marsh had always read this but this (B1988-93) came up against a pair who against Westminster. Alter & Surridge year, we gave it a special ending.What sank every putt regardless of the won at the 16th to even the match after fun we had! distance. Ben Thrussell & Kirby had lost. Behind Well done everyone for an excellent Will Kirby (L2006-11), in the team for them, all three matches were settled at performance, including the supporters. his first Hewitt experience at the age of the 18th with Adam Thrussell & It was a wonderful week. 20, played with Ben Thrussell (B1989-94) Rawlinson holding their nerve to win 1 and they were all square at the 16th. up but Corbett & Bloomfield and
The annual OA v School golf match at Porters Park on Wednesday 25th June. OAs pictured are: (back left) Ian Dowdeswell (M1975-81) next to Martin Jeens (SHE1956-61), David Vezey (SHE1959-62) 2nd right and Ian Eggleden (SHE1958-63) next to him. From the OA Society 13
Old Aldenhamian golfing society Results
Halford Hewitt 11 April 1st Round v Highgate Match v Aldenham School 25 June at Porters Park at Royal Cinque Ports, Deal Result: Won 2 - 1 Result: Won 41⁄2 – 1⁄2 OAGS Team: SC Lewis & ND Melvill Won 2&1 Team: RA Alter & JT Surridge Won 3&2 I Dowdeswell & DPA Vezey Lost 1 down NJM Corbett & J Bloomfield Won 2 up IR Eggleden & MA Jeens Won 1 up AJ Thrussell & DM Rawlinson Won 2&1 BP Thrussell & D Andrews Won 2&1 School Team: Oliver Baker & Adam Hall SGO Williams & SC Lewis Halved Jamie Gall & Henry Garnett Will Judge & Connor Moloney 11 April 2nd Round v Dulwich at Royal Cinque Ports, Deal Result: Lost 2 – 3 Match v Old Cholmeleians 26 July at Ashridge Team: SGO Williams & SC Lewis Lost 3&2 Result: Lost 2 - 6 RA Alter & JT Surridge Won 4&3 NJM Corbett & J Bloomfield Won 5&4 Ancients v West Sussex Elders 11 August at West Sussex AJ Thrussell & DM Rawlinson Lost 5&4 Result: Lost 1 1⁄2 - 3 1⁄2 BP Thrussell & D Andrews Lost 4&3 Team: I Dowdeswell & I Wilson-Soppitt Won ND Melvill & H Cowtan Lost Grafton Morrish (Qualifier) 11 May at North Hants RJ Coombes & M Weatherhead Halved Result: Did not qualify for Finals (62 points) PMQ Mobsby & CJ Thwaites Won Team: J Bloomfield & JT Surridge 25 points MW Blake & RJ Buckley Won SGO Williams & D Andrews 20 points AJ Thrussell & DM Rawlinson 17 points Match v Old Millhillians 26 August at Porters Park Result: Won 3 - 1 The Mellin Salver 11 July v Sherborne at West Hill Team: I Dowdeswell & MA Jeens Won 1 up 1 1 Result: Lost ⁄2 - 2 ⁄2 SC Lewis & I Wilson-Soppitt Lost 1 down Team: RD Hall & SC Lewis Lost 6&5 IR Eggleden & S Summers Won 4&3 PJ Easby & G Green Halved ND Melvill & DPA Vezey Won 4&3 I Wilson-Soppitt & JDL Yule Lost 4&3 Spring Meeting 13 May at West Hill The Mellin Plate 11 July v Bradfield at West Hill Attendance: 13 (14 in 2013) Result: Lost 1 - 2 Weather: Fine and (incredibly) dry Team: RD Hall & SC Lewis Won 6&4 Results: Spring Challenge Cup PJ Easby & G Green Lost 4&3 I Wilson-Soppitt (71) I Wilson-Soppitt & JDL Yule Lost 5&4 Scratch Prize I Wilson-Soppitt (83) The Peter Burles Salver 10 July v Sherborne at West Hill Stableford Prize 1 1 Result: Won 1⁄2 - ⁄2 CJ Thwaites (35 pts) Team: RRWB Cooke & JJ Irwin Won 2&1 President’s Cup IR Eggleden & DPA Vezey Halved DPA Vezey & IR Eggleden (36 pts)
10 July v Bradfield at West Hill Summer Meeting 15 July at Ashridge 1 1 Result: Lost ⁄2 - 1 ⁄2 Attendance: 15 (16 in 2013) plus 3 for lunch only Team: RRWB Cooke & JJ Irwin Halved Weather: Hot and sunny IR Eggleden & DPA Vezey Lost 5&4 Results: Ian Greig Trophy ND Melvill (71) The Bunny Millard Salver 10 July at West Hill Scratch Prize Result: Did not qualify with 22 points SGO Williams (78) Team: RJ Coombes & FC Simeons Stableford Prize IR Eggleden (35 pts) Match v Old Leysians 15 May at Brookmans Park Laurence Latter Trophy Result: Won 2 - 1 DWS Hayes & CJ Thwaites (28 pts) Team: MA Jeens & PH Bailey Won 3&2 WH Gamble & RJ Morris Lost 3&2 European Tour 29 September to 3 October in France PJ Murphy & ND Melvill Won 5&4 Captain’s Invitation Meeting 21 October at Huntercombe Match v Littlehampton 17 June at Littlehampton Result: Lost 11⁄2 - 31⁄2 Team: ND Melvill & I Wilson-Soppitt Lost The John Woodrow Cup was awarded to John Yule (SHE1966- MW Blake & SC Lewis Halved 71) for the year 2013 in recognition of his outstanding RJ Coombes & IR Eggleden Lost contribution to the Society as a player. John had been a member RJ Buckley & MA Jeens Lost for more than 25 years and he had attended most of the OAGS FC Simeons & M Weatherhead Won events every year. He had organised a superb tour of South Africa, 2005 and had taken on the organisation of the European Match v Old Berkhamstedians 20 June at Berkhamsted Tour, 2013. Result: Halved 2 - 2 14 From the OA Society OA blazer
Dennis William Robinson (SHO1947-51) emailed in response to the Editor’s query.
y son borrowed my OA blazer (see photo) for a 40s/50s party Mearlier this year, I sent the photo to Ann Saffery (Development & Is it time to OA Manager) whom I met with the renew your OA School Choir when they sang at Chester Cathedral. She was not familiar with the subscription? blazer from my era- hence the photo! Incidentally, my son went to Ellesmere College so that my wife and I could ew membership subscription easily attend matches, as we lived in arrangements were Cheshire. Nunanimously approved at the My OA blazer was bought for me by Society’s AGM in 2002 to enable the my Father when I left in Summer 1951, Society to provide members with along with a sweater, socks and a tie, all an improved service, in particular of which I still have and are in good expansion and improvement of the condition! The blazer came from OA website. Gorringes, the London based School’s All existing Life Members who left outfitters and it still has their label on it the School twenty years ago or more to prove this. I would add that I have are invited to pay a voluntary annual worn the blazer occasionally at 1940s & subscription to the Society. An 50s events, and it has been admired as appropriate sum would be £10 per very much a garment of its time. ‘ annum although the Society would welcome larger amounts. If you left School in Summer 1994 or before, you are invited to start paying a voluntary annual subscription to the Society. Should you wish to make a voluntary annual subscription, please complete the Standing Order form on p.33 of the magazine and return it to the Development & OA Office. From the School 15
Letter from the Headmaster I write to you as the new School year is very much in full swing. A total of 560 pupils in the Senior School and both our Prep Schools at full capacity mean that today’s Aldenham Foundation of over 900 pupils is a much larger entity than it would have been in the past, and considerably larger than it was in 1914.
owever, as I reminded the pupils on the first day of the School Hyear over 950 former pupils and staff served during the period of the Great War and we are looking to teach today’s young people messages of service and commitment that reflect back on the dedication of those who were faced with major challenges 100 years ago. The full War List is currently on display in the Dining Hall and will remain on display throughout the next four years. It is therefore entirely appropriate that this superb publication reflects upon the part that Aldenham and so many other public schools played in the Charlotte and James Fowler on Visitation Day, 2014 war effort at that time. We do of course hope that we continue to play our part in the wider national picture despite the delighted that so many of our Secondly, it is a life with time for frequent attacks on the elitism of the Martineau’s pupils are starting their reflection – how else can we explain the independent schools. In fact, as you may boarding experience with us at the enthusiastic way in which each year as well be aware there is strong evidence age of 11. part of their leavers’ day, our Y13 pupils that the Independent Schools sector is a With this sort of experience parents request that they have a chapel service major net contributor of over £12bn to and pupils find that lives at Aldenham to mark their time at the school? I am the country’s GDP. Despite this hostility now, as well as in the past, can be sure that the experience of being asked from politicians of all parties we believe meaningful for four reasons: to reflect on their life and the needs of that our most important constituency, the world around them is something the pupils and parents of Aldenham Firstly, it is a life with purpose – how which marks the pupils here. If we could and its other Foundation schools else can we explain why the number see a similar degree of reflection in the remain delighted with what we are of pupils who want to take part in our lives of all the young people in society able to achieve. activities and events is rising each year? one wonders how things could change They remain committed to the School Large numbers of pupils take up the for the better. because they like what they find we are optional DofE Awards, with 11 students able to do, especially as a boarding and in the Sixth form completing the most Thirdly, it is a life with an opportunity day School. Whether or not a pupil is a demanding Gold Award expedition. to excel – how else can we explain the boarder, parents and pupils recognise An excellent inspection of our CCF extraordinary dedication to rehearsal that every one of them benefits from took place last October. And this and preparation seen in the pupils’ work being at a school where time is so freely summer we sent two trips to work with towards countless performances this given. It is therefore a particularly the charity ‘Ripple Africa’ in Malawi and year? Many parents regard the notable feature of the last year that we Zambia – the additional trip was remarkably professional dance show have seen a considerable growth in the necessary due to the very high each spring as a key advance booking popularity of boarding with over 160 proportion of Lower Sixth form students date. Similarly the productions of pupils now boarding each week. This who wanted to go on this powerful Amadeus, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, level of boarding is the highest number and challenging trip. You will be pleased Haroun and the Sea of Stories, the amazing that we have had for some twenty years to know I had no problem at all in pieces on surrealist art produced for the and indicates that an opportunity to finding extra staff volunteers to give House Drama competition or the many spend more time in our community is up three weeks of the holiday to other theatre performance throughout increasingly popular. I am especially accompany them. the year were similarly popular. And 16 From the School
therefore it is not surprising that 4 members of the School – Zach Agama (M2011-present), Matthew Prett (K2009-present), Jahn Ramis (R2009-14), Jon Richard (M2008-present) - have won places in the National Youth Theatre.
And fourthly, it is a life with the chance of future success – how else can we explain the enthusiastic way in which pupils approach the challenges set before them? For example the team who won the Hertfordshire final of the Bank of England Interest Rate Competition; Exam results those who gave such stimulating speeches on freedom in the Public Speaking Competition or who were so A Level results 2014 through these very good results. I inventive in their marketing ideas as The results picture for Aldenham is congratulate them all.” part of the Business Challenge similar to last year with around 50% of Competition. A mark of all those who grades at A*, A or B grade and 70% at A* GCSE results 2014 were successful in these events was to C grade. There were some outstanding There were smiles all round as their confidence in presenting individual performances and overall Aldenham pupils received their GCSE themselves and their ideas when 77% of students gained a place at their results. Although this is the first year in speaking to large audiences. And we see first choice university. recent times when no pupils have been the same confidence when our pupils James Fowler, Headmaster, able to benefit from the possibility of deal with visitors on Open Day or in commented: “At a time when there was modular structures or resits, the your dealings with them. Yet I hope that undoubted pressure on students to performance of pupils is very pleasing this is a suitably humble confidence perform, particularly with the decline in indeed. An A*-C pass rate of over 85% which means that they have reflected opportunities for retaking modules and 32% of all the papers taken were upon how lucky they are to have these through the course, it is extremely graded at A* or A grade, demonstrating opportunities. impressive that our students have been the amount of hard work that was put The current generation of so successful in realising their ambitions in by everyone. Congratulations to all. Aldenhamians feel very linked to the School and I know that, through the excellent work of the OA Office, led by Ann Saffery and Jackie Wilkie, they will We will always remember them be able to continue those links when they leave the School. The generation Remembrance 2013 who left in 2014 and became members of the Society will be wearing their new upils and staff were delighted to pin badges with pride and we very much welcome The Reverend Simon look forward to meeting them along PChapman to officiate at the with other OAs at events at the School, Remembrance Day service in the School around the UK and across the world in Chapel. Padre Chapman joined the the future. School as Chaplain in April 2014, after serving with the RAF. Simon was extremely highly regarded in the Air Force and his time there included a tour of duty in Afghanistan. The CCF, along with the Headmaster, Head Boy and Head Girl, laid wreaths during the previous day’s Remembrance Service in Letchmore Heath when the School’s brass band provided the musical accompaniment for the large crowd, which included some OAs, gathered in the morning sunshine at the village War Memorial. From the School 17 Keeping Aldenham in tip-top shape The extended summer break provided a chance to carry out a significant amount of work on the School site so that pupils can benefit from an exceptional educational environment.
ver £500,000 has been invested One of the most striking new through continued developments however, is the extension Oimprovements and upgrades of 7 new bedroom spaces in Paull’s including the resurfacing of many of our House. As part of a general trend, where roads and paths, a major project to we have seen boarding grow in redecorate and repair the outside of the significance and frequency in recent School House building including a new years, these new bedroom spaces will roof, external decoration of the bring Paull’s capacity of boarding to 41 Mathematics and Design Technology beds and all of those have already been blocks, as well as refurbishments within filled for 2014/15. Kennedy’s, McGill’s, Martineau’s and Beevor’s Houses. 18 From the School
Alan Dickinson (SHE1947-52) & Dennis Robinson Chester Cathedral (SHO1947-51) who came to watch the Choir OAs who live in and around Chester were invited to hear the School Cantabile sing in Chester Cathedral on Sunday 25th May.
Alan Dickinson (SHE1947-52) and The Cantabile completed a gruelling Dennis Robinson (SHO1947-51) met up schedule of rehearsals and three for the first time since leaving Aldenham services. It was an exhilarating and attended Matins followed by a experience for the young singers who relaxed lunch in the Refectory Café. rounded off the day with pizza at a local They congratulated John Wyatt restaurant and looked forward to a stop (CR1994-Present), Director of Music and at Alton Towers on their way back to Sam Austin (CR2011-Present), Assistant Hertfordshire the following day. Director of Music, on the Choir’s performance at the service, which The Choir including OAs: Osnat Katz (P2007-14), Natasha Marriott (P2012-14), Kristian included John Rutter’s ‘This is the Day’. Schuhmacher (R2003-08), Chris Milligan (L2007-14) and Carl Rennie (M2003-10) They were delighted to know that music continues to flourish at Aldenham as was Tony Doust (P1952-58) who attended Evensong and particularly enjoyed hearing ‘O Thou the Central Orb’ by Charles Wood sung expertly by the Choir. Tony was inspired to play the piano within his first weeks at the School, a hobby he continues to enjoy today, and was pleased to have been able to make the journey to Chester after leading a service as Reader at his own church in Stockport. From the School 19
Celebrating 40 years in Kennedy’s
n October 1973 Pimpo and Carmen from past Housemasters and their wives Castro arrived in Kennedy’s House Mary and Austin Galvin (CR1970-2006), Ifrom north-west Spain. Jenny and Marie-Noelle and Jonathan Coates Chris Arkell (B1946-52, CR1962-93 & (SHO1964-69 & CR1997-2002), Alison and Housemaster K1972-84) welcomed Andrew Stead (CR1994-2013), Laura and them and organised their commitments Nick Pietrek (CR2002-12), the current both in and outside School. It helped incumbents Amy and Charlie Irish that they were both established (CR2001-Present), and with the recent anglophiles, Carmen being keen on the Martineau’s addition from Andy and monarchy and Pimpo entranced by warm Louise Gall (CR2004-Present, English beer! They are still in charge Martineau’s Housemistress). forty years on, having overseen all the It has been such an honour to have changes that Kennedy’s has survived. known and appreciated Pimpo and With their loyalty, efficiency and total Carmen over these last forty years. commitment, Kennedy’s has prospered over the years. Thanks for their support Mary and Austin Galvin
ALDENHAM ANNUAL FUND 2013/14
Once again the Aldenham Annual Fund appeal has exceeded our expectations by generating over £38,000.
very donation to this important received from Old Aldenhamians, financially or in kind, to the Aldenham fundraising campaign is very current and former parents, staff and Annual Fund 2013/14. Emuch appreciated, as the fund friends of the School. enables us to purchase items that will We are very fortunate to have so Please contact Ann Saffery for further immediately enhance the learning many loyal supporters and would like to details environment both inside and outside the thank publicly each and every person Email: [email protected] classroom. The money raised during the who made a contribution, either Tel: 01923 851 612 course of the academic year 2013/14 was used to buy resources that created Philip Jenkins (SHO1980-84) presenting some mature trees to Roy Hanshaw, much excitement amongst the staff Head of Grounds and Gardens. and students. Physics lessons became much more interactive when £6,000 worth of data logging equipment arrived in the spring term. The sublimation printer has engaged Design and Technology students in producing some interesting items including personalised mugs and t-shirts. On Sports Day, Prep School parents were able to cheer on their children from the new benches on Button Field and the e-books in the Prep Library are set to liven up literature lessons. A new woodland area was created over the Easter holiday when over 20 mature trees were planted and next spring we’ll see the bulbs in full bloom. All these gifts and more were bought as a result of the generous donations 20 From the School
The Letchmore Trust Art Prizes 2014 Due to last year’s extremely successful Letchmore Trust Art Competition, an additional ’Intermediate’ age category was introduced for 2014.
Sophie Boggis-Rolfe (P2011-Present) consisting of a fragmented human figure Winners and runners up in the was the winner of this new award and with accurate ink drawings of sections competition produced one of the most eye-catching of a building interior, depicting what the Senior Competition pieces, which received many figure has seen on its journey. Winner - Aronnan Dadral (K2009-14) compliments from people visiting the The theme for the Junior Competition 2nd Place - James Petrie (M2007-14) Summer Art Exhibition. Her incredibly was ‘The Commemoration of the First 3rd Place - Lucy Demetiou (P2008- beautiful and accurate portrait, drawn World War’. Marco Nicholas (M2013- present) and Grace Conway in pencil and graphite, really impressed present) son of Robert Nicholas (2008-present) the judges, Gemma Nye (CR2011- (M1975-80) produced a powerful Intermediate Competition Present) and James James-Crook portrait piece which caught the Winner - Sophie Boggis-Rolfe (P2010- (M1968-72), Trustee, The Letchmore attention of the judges to win him first 2012) Trust. place. It was another excellent 2nd Place - Emma Fontes-Perryman Aronnan Dadral (K2009-14) won the competition and the outstanding work (P2009-present) Senior Competition with his original produced by all the age groups made the 3rd Place - Anya Gibbins (P2009-present) thought provoking installation piece judging even harder. Junior Competition Winner - Marco Nicholas (M2013-present) 2nd Place - William Rutt (B2013-present) 3rd Place - Leo Bailey (C2012 – present) From the School 21
Art at Aldenham Trevor Barton (K1971-75), Chairman of the Letchmore Trust was invited, along with fellow Trustees, James James-Crook (M1968-72), Peter Stevens (P1964-69) and Paul Shelton (P1965-70), to a reception and art exhibition in The Apthorp Room of The Wells Centre at the School in November 2013.
he Headmaster hosted the event shares in order to generate an income to celebrate the support given by which is used to support Arts activities Tthe Letchmore Trust for the in the School. development of Art within the School. The Apthorp Room in The Wells Other invited guests included Centre provided the ideal venue for this John Apthorp winners of the Letchmore Trust prizes, event and the School now encourages Visits The Wells Art Scholars and their parents and other local artists to take advantage of this members of the Aldenham School magnificent space to display their own Centre Community, including OAs, who work in works to share for public pleasure and the fields of art and photography. for sales. The Letchmore Trust was originally Anyone interested in hiring this 24th June 2014 founded to own and look after the venue should contact Andy Dawson, magnificent Stanley Spencer paintings, Lettings Manager: e were delighted to be able to which hung in the School Chapel from welcome John Apthorp CBE 1958 until their sale in the 1990s. The Email: [email protected] W(P1949-53) to see The Wells Trust manages a portfolio of stocks and Tel: 01923 851669 Centre for the first time since it was opened in September 2012. John and his Trevor Barton (K1971-75) addressing the guests family are great supporters of the School and his great niece is currently enjoying a successful time in Martineau’s House. James Fowler, Headmaster, and Stuart Lewis DL, Chairman of Governors, were able to show John the new building, which has just served its second year in full use. John saw students who will be joining Aldenham in Year 12 in September, tackling leadership skills training in the Sixth Form Centre, which was a hive of activity. He was particularly impressed with the equipment in the Music Technology classroom and the excellent environment provided for learning Psychology in the Sixth Form. The Apthorp Room on the upper level was all set for a Governor training Jeanette Aron with her son, Sam Aron (L2009-Present) joint winner of the Junior Prize with session to take place and John was James James-Crook (M1968-72) pleased to know that the space is in regular use for a variety of activities by the whole School and our local community. Although not a cricket fan himself, John could appreciate the spectacular view across Top Field, from the balcony in the Foyer to the Recital Room, where the annual John Dewes match was well under way. 22 From the School
John Dewes Cricket Match
24th June 2014
The School’s First XI and the Headmaster’s Guest XI contested the John Dewes Cricket Trophy for the fifth time with the match ending in a draw.
his event, now an annual fixture in the School calendar, was Tfollowed by a barbeque for players and spectators, providing an Jack Gibbins (R2007-14), right, presents opportunity to discuss the game and Mike Yeabsley (CR2008-present) with an inspire the current pupils with stories, MCC blazer as a thank you from the School Peter Gibbins right, parent and regular cricketers for his time as Master of Cricket. advice and guidance from more supporter of Aldenham cricket with Mike Mike stood down from the post and Charles experienced players. Yeabsley at the end of an era. Irish (CR2001-Present) takes over the role. John Dewes (B1940-45), Aldenham’s only Test cricketer, was unable to be present due to poor health, but would have been delighted to see the high level of skill displayed by the boys and the grounds looking as spectacular as ever.
Six of this year’s 1st XI are now OAs themselves and very keen to continue playing cricket at the School. Consideration will be given to running some OA Cricket matches on Sundays during the season.
Please contact the Development and OA Office if this is something that would be of interest to you [email protected] From the School 23
Eros to Eros run 27th June 2014
Former Prep School Head Paul Cheetham (CR1996-99 & 2003-07) once again completed the 2014 Eros Run in a record-breaking time.
n an ideal day for distance running, Cheetham, in his fourth Oconsecutive victory, shaved a further two minutes off his previous record from last year to finish in 1:26:31. Once again, he quickly established a lead and was way ahead of the field by the time he turned onto the Edgware Road. The second runner home was Ashley Potter, father of Amelia Potter (Head Girl 2013-14) in a time of 1:57:50. The first member of staff home wasSam Pennycook (CR2009-Present) in a shade over two hours. The Eros Shield for fastest pupil returned to McGill’s House, with Max Bull (M2010-present) crossing the line in a time of 2:07:40 on his debut run. Once again, there was a healthy mix of several staff who provided drinks and designated charity for the year. I would of students, parents, staff and OAs, encouragement along the way. like to thank all the runners, their representing all parts of the Aldenham Perhaps most importantly this year, sponsors and the support staff for community. The race would not have the runners raised almost £550 for Great making the run so successful again. been possible without the involvement Ormond Street Hospital, the School’s Emily Gratton Race Co-ordinator 2014 The results
Name Year House Time Paul Cheetham at the finish (h:mm:ss) 1 Paul Cheetham OA 1:26:31* 2 Ashley Potter Parent 1:57:50 3 Sam Pennycook Staff 2:00:57 4 Alan Phillips OA 2:04:47 5 Max Bull 12 M 2:07:40 6 Amy Irish Staff 2:11:12 7 Rupert Bloom 12 L 2:20:53 8 Mrs Leong Parent 2:22:12 9 Dom Levy 10 L 2:24:45 10 Nikki Malone Staff 2:25:08 11 Mrs Jacobs Parent 2:28:59 12 Jack Gibbins 13 R 2:30:56 13 Miranda Dodd 12 P 2:32:22 14 Emily Gratton Staff 2:36:05 15 Reshmi Patel 10 P 2:42:59 16= Tilk Malhotra 13 B 2:45:11 Len Cook with his son, Chris Cook (L2000-02) 16= Jacob Haftel 13 R 2:45:11 18 Estela Innes 11 P 2:51:39 19 Clara Nugent Staff 2:54:41 20 Blake Mowatt 12 L 3:00:21 21 Chris Cook OA 3:03:17 22 Len Cook Frmr Parent 3:03:21
* Course record, beating the previous record of 1:28:39, set by Mr. P. Cheetham in 2013. 24 From the School
Dr Apthorp Opens Play Tower
Dr Brian Apthorp (P1951-56) returned to Aldenham on Wednesday 2nd May to officially open a new play tower in the Pre-Prep School playground.
r Apthorp cut the ribbon with As a former pupil in the 1950s, when Susan May who was representing the Nursery School, Wilson House, was Dthe Prep Parents’ Association. the Sanatorium and long before the Prep These special guests were given a rousing School was built, Dr Apthorp saw many ‘thank you’ by the children for their changes to the School grounds. His generous contributions to the Aldenham daughter, Claudine Goldingham, who Annual Fund Appeal, which had raised was also present, is a current Aldenham Film Club the money to buy this new equipment. parent and was delighted to see the The Head of the Prep School, children having fun, not only on the continues Vicky Gocher, hosted a coffee morning climbing frame but also with the to express the School’s gratitude for colourful ribbon that had been tied the contribution made to the Annual around it for the occasion. to thrive Fund by OAs and parents. She said that All too soon it was back to work for the children really enjoy letting off everyone, after a happy interlude in steam in the playground and the new praise of the valuable support given to FILM CLUB at Aldenham is equipment has encouraged lots of the School from members of the still proving popular with imaginative play. Aldenham community. the students and we are grateful to the OA Society for their continued sponsorship of this regular activity.
uring Activities Week in June 2014 pupils had a ball at a gory Dhorror film making workshop. As a result one of the short films - ‘Infected’, made by students, Nikihil Patel (B2012-present), Luke Richfield (R2011-present), Matt Berglas (M2013- present) and Jai Vithlani (K2013- present), has been chosen by the charity ‘Into Film’ to be used as a national resource produced by the British Board of Film Classification. The short, scary film will now be made available to schools across the country as part of a learning tool. A gift from the pupils This is a real coup for the young film producers and is testament to all their Hollie Slaughter (CR2010-13 & hard work. 2014-present), Art Teacher, was For anyone interested, the film is commissioned by the boys of McGill’s available to view online at: House to paint this picture of the House. vimeo.com/m/99931125 It was presented to Paul Dunstan, 11th Thank you to the OAs for continuing Housemaster of McGill’s when he to support the Aldenham FILM CLUB stepped down in July 2014, after serving and it is great to see the pupils flourish 7 years in the position. through this creative activity. From the School 25
D-Day Commemorations 1944-2014 The D-Day commemorations at Aldenham were marked by a Chapel service focusing on sacrifice and remembering.
he School Chaplain, Padre Simon Field Marshal The Lord Vincent of Coleshill GBE KCB DSO (SH1945-50) in front of the bust of Chapman, reminded everyone General Sir Richard Gale GCB KBE DSO MC (SH1911-13) Tabout the enormous contributions made by a number of past pupils to ensure a successful outcome to this bloody conflict. The War Memorial in the School’s Chapel lists no fewer than 116 names, including Lieutenant Trevor Tooley (B1930-35) who sadly lost his life on D-Day itself. He was serving with the 1st Suffolk Regiment that went on to secure a farmhouse, where they dug in before moving out to make contact with the enemy again the following day. Aldenham can boast many high ranking military officers who have served their country well, in particular General Sir Richard Gale GCB KBE DSO MC (SHE1911-13) Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe. During his service in the First World War ‘Windy’ Gale was awarded the Military Cross whilst serving as a Junior Officer in the Machine Gun Corps. His distinguished military career made him a household figure to many during the two wars and in the years before and after. He was a pioneer in the training and organisation of airborne troops and made a great reputation in the Second World War as a commander of airborne forces. He received the DSO and the United States Legion of Merit as Commander of the 6th Airborne Division, which was put down on D-Day beyond the River Orne four hours before the Anglo-American landings in Bath, and to see where his own Banner become Chief of the Defence Staff in the Normandy. He continued to serve with would shortly be raised as a Grand aftermath of the Gulf War in March the airborne troops as Commander-in- Commander of the Order. 1991. Promoted to Field Marshal in 1992 Chief of the British Army in the Rhine Field Marshal The Lord Vincent of he became Chairman of the NATO and played an important part in the Coleshill GBE KCB DSO (SHE1945-50), Military Committee before retiring from Rhine crossing and the closing stages of the most senior ranking officer and also the British Army in 1996. the war in Europe. General Gale was the last Field Marshal in the British Today the School’s CCF, in appointed Deputy Supreme Allied Army, remembers General Gale partnership with Queens’ School Bushey, Commander Europe from 1958 to 1960. inspecting the School’s Combined Cadet continues to thrive with both Army and His immense loyalty to Aldenham Force in June 1960 when he himself was RAF sections. The affiliation with The saw him return for many School events. a Cadet. The Field Marshal also enjoyed Royal Anglians was strengthened when He once invited a party of boys to a long distinguished military career Major Mark Nicholas carried out the Westminster Abbey to hear of the starting as commander of 19th latest CCF biennial inspection at history and ritual of the Order of the Airportable Brigade before going on to Aldenham in October 2013. 26 News and features News and features
An OA half-century lunch 31 July 2014
Marking the 50th anniversary of leaving Aldenham in 1964, four OAs met informally for lunch at the Three Horseshoes, Letchmore Heath.
fter leaving Aldenham they met All were members of Paull’s: l to r, Richard Potter (P1959-64) (with his original boater), Major regularly at a number of pubs in Nicholas Haines (P1960-64), Andrew Pike (P1959-64), Tony Dron (P1959-64). ALondon and the Home Counties but had not gathered as a group in the half-century since. There was an apology for absence through sickness from a fifth, non-Paull’s but much- missed, member, Bruce Johnson (SHE1960-64) – a School House bug, no doubt. Tony Dron’s 1932 Austin Seven is similar to the one he owned when he left Aldenham. Psychology with criminology
Hrishikesh (Rishi) Nimal-Raj (K2004-11) achieved a 2.1 for his Psychology with Criminology degree from University of Hull and has now been accepted at City University of London to begin a Masters Diamond wedding celebration in Organisational Psychology. ‘None of this would have been possible Having received the latest copy of the OA Review, Tim Gent without Aldenham School. At 16 years (SHO1940-45) wrote a thank you letter to the OA Office old, I never knew what Psychology noting that he had read, with regret, that Peter Richards meant. Through great teachers such as David Bott (CR2007-12) and Paul (SHE1941-44) had died. Dunstan (CR2000-Present) who were my two Psychology teachers for A-Level, hen Tim and his wife came Tim and his wife married on 3 October I was able to achieve a lot. Their to Aldenham for Visitation 1953 and celebrated their Diamond teaching styles were second to none and WDay 2009, they met Peter wedding anniversary last year. They without them, I wouldn’t have felt and had a long chat with him about organised a big party in a local hall and confident about going to university.’ many subjects. then another get-together in the communal lounge where they now live, giving everyone a slice of cake! News and features 27
Goodwood Festival of Speed Mike McNeill (P1955-60) recounts his meeting up with Tony Dron (P1959-64) at the Festival of Speed in July 2013.
t was a typical summer’s day - hot and very enjoyable. There were ‘Imany unique and historic cars lined up for the hill climb, including some present day examples. Tony was driving a special E Type - Stefan Ziegler’s 1963 Lightweight - which he drove in an exuberant demonstration run up the hill twice. The body is aluminium and has a modified engine. Tony reminded Mike of the School ski-ing trip of 1961 when Tony’s mother overloaded him with too much luggage. ‘We went to S-chanf in the Swiss canton of Graubunden. If it wasn’t for you I’d probably never have left Chur station, but then you were about eight inches taller than I was in those days.’
Mike McNeill (on left) with Tony Dron Dambuster of the Day No.41 Brian Charles Jagger (B1936-38). Pilot Officer, Royal Air Force. DFM (Mohne Dam Raid).
rian Jagger, David Shannon’s front After the Dams Raid, Jagger flew on April 1944, in a Lancaster of 49 gunner, came from an artistic several other operations with the Squadron. On a Fighter Affiliation Bfamily. His father, David Jagger, Shannon crew, and was commissioned Exercise, a dinghy became released and was a well known portrait painter and in October 1943. He was transferred to a wrapped itself around the tailplane his uncle, Charles Sergeant Jagger, was a training unit in the spring of 1944, and causing the aircraft to crash. sculptor and artist, and was responsible was killed in a flying accident on 30 for many memorials to the dead of the First World War. His aunt, Edith Jagger, Brian Jagger is in the centre of the back row of a group in his 50 Squadron days. was also an artist. Born in Chelsea in 1922, Brian joined the RAF in 1941. He qualified as an air gunner in the summer of 1942, and was posted to 50 Squadron. Most of his operations were flown in a crew piloted by Sgt Norman Schofield, a Canadian, and also included two other Canadians, John Fraser and Ken Earnshaw, who would fly on the Dams Raid. It may have been one of these who recommended Jagger to David Shannon when he was putting together his crew for 617 Squadron. 28 News and features
70th Anniversary Luncheon for ‘New’ Boys of September 1944
It was 70 years ago, in September 1944, that 16 ‘New Boys’ stepped into the Headmaster’s Drawing Room, now the Whitbread Room, for the first time as they were welcomed to Aldenham School.
his first time meeting was the Senior Teachers and Business Managers beginning of some lifelong popped in to welcome these ‘Old Boys’ Tfriendships as the School House back to their School. The Headmaster, contemporaries journeyed through life James Fowler, joined the celebratory at School and beyond. 50 years later, lunch as did the Development & OA Wedding news John Handcock (SHE1944-47) decided to Manager and Assistant, Ann Saffery and replay the first day at School and Jackie Wilkie. It was a delightful izzie and Andrew Wyatt (P2000- organised a reunion lunch back at occasion with lots of storytelling and 2007), son of Mandy and John Aldenham. This occasion was first laughter along with a little sadness as LWyatt, Director of Music (CR1994- repeated in 2004 for a 60th anniversary glasses were raised to ‘absent friends’. current) married in August 2014. OAs who celebration and John called the group Plans are now afoot for another get attended included Ben Weil (K2000-07), together for another luncheon on 8th together, but the consensus was not to Chris Droese (L2002-07), Michael Dell September 2014. leave it another 10 years until the next (K2002-07) and Ian Laurence, John supplied champagne for the celebration, just because it was so Peripatetic teacher. reception, when current Housemasters, much fun!
June Thwaites, Richard Thwaites (SHO1944-49), Anne Oliver, Mike St Aubyn (SHE1944-48), Peggy Handcock, Alan Oliver (SHO1944-49), Don Shield (SHO1944-49), John Handcock OA to Oz (SHE1944-47) ollowing a visit to the School in April, Michael Newfield (B1980-84) Fand his wife, Jenny, had the most wonderful day visiting Aldenham and seeing the School in all its splendour. ‘On my return to Australia I will get in touch with Paul Volk (R1988-93) and also attempt to garner firmer support for a function in Perth / Freemantle.’ Charity ride n Monday 4th August 2014, Paul Haworth (P1971-73) donned his OLycra and joined his good friend Mike Thompson, CEO Childbase Partnership, on a 767 mile Charity Bike Ride from Bath to Buckinghamshire, to raise money for the new Princess Eugenie House at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in Stanmore. The cycle took 12 days, averaging between 60-80 miles per day. Paul raised over £7,000 which will go towards a play area for the children in care at the Hospital, as well as friends and relatives who come to visit. News and features 29
Memories of Test support Remembrance Sunday Tim Law (M1945-51) on seeing John Dewes Michael Watts (P1949-54) came across two pictures from the (B1940-45) General Inspection day in 1951, when the School marched aving read my OA Review, I across from the Yard and the Library, prior to parading in thought that I would like to reassure John that he did have long ranks for the inspection, possibly by General Gale. H some ‘Aldenham’ support on 14th July 1945 when he made his debut for n the lower photo, Sgt Major The second picture has us all at full England in the third ‘Victory’ Test played Buckingham (CR1935-64) is seen speed ahead, a side drum or two at Lords. Three of us, Peter Bedford ‘Ichecking the band and Michael accompanying Mark Hargreaves as he (M1945-49), Robert Gardiner (M1945-49) recalls that he vaguely recognises (from played eight bars on the solo bugle, now and I, entered Cox’s (now McGill’s) left to right) Sgt., John Fletcher (P1948- behind John Fletcher. The remaining House in 1945-3. At the time of the Test 54), nearly hidden: John Westcott buglers would then repeat the same we were still at prep school, Fernden, (P1950-53), Graham Tingay (SH1948- eight bars, with all drums playing. This Haslemere, Surrey (now closed) whose 51), Jones (?), Michael Watts (P1949-54), way, all the buglers rested for eight bars Headmaster, Charles Brownrigg - an Robert Potter (B1951-53), unknown, at a time – while the top bugler was the MCC member - decided to take that unknown. Mark Hargreaves (SHE1947- clever one who had to memorise all the year’s Cricket XI to Lords for the 52) would be in the back corner, on my tunes. They soon became very familiar. occasion, where we watched from the right, and is completely hidden – well But now I can only recall “French” and privileged position of a ‘box’ in the old his lower left leg is there! “Sturdee”! (Naval section first!!)’ grandstand. His reason was that three of us were going to Aldenham for the next term and he wanted us to see a distinguished OA cricketer. I can still recall a number of incidents - a century (104) from Len Hutton, Wally Hammond being stumped a long way down the wicket off Cecil Pepper by Sismey and our hero being bowled by Keith Miller for 27 after a resolute innings. It was the first time that any of us had been to Lords to watch a match although we had visited the ground at Eastertide 1945 for the coaching class. I saw John again at the Oval in 1948, like Peter Shaw (B1952-56), when he was bowled by Miller (again) in the first innings and by Ray Lindwall in the second, the two most destructive bowlers of their time. Don Bradman made a second ball ‘duck’ - had he made only 4 he would have ended his Test career with an average in all Test Band inspection by Sgt Major Matches of 100 (it is 99.94, a record that Buckingham will probably never be beaten). The From left to Right: Front Row: John Fletcher (P1948-54), John Westcott game was made ‘famous’ also by (partly hidden) (P1950-53), Graham England’s first innings collapse - 52 all Tingay (P1948-41)? out (Len Hutton 30), the lowest score by 2nd Row: David Jones (B1948-52)?, either side at the Oval at that time. Brian Potter (P1949-53) These are my memories of John 3rd Row: Hidden completely Mark Hargreaves (SHE1947-52), Michael whom I do not think that I have ever Watts (P1949-54), ?, Simon met face-to-face. Perhaps I should try to Oppenheimer (SHE1947-51) come to next year’s match at Aldenham. 30 News and features
Bath up a tree Here’s living proof that at least one person reads the OA Review!
William Nicholas Mullings (SHE1960-65) wrote a letter to the Editor enclosing a photo of the bath up the tree and another photo taken on his 18th birthday on 4 June 1965. One thing he had noticed over the years is that the 1960-65 group does not appear very often in the Aldenhamiana and he had Lance always assumed that they were in prison or had led a rather quiet life like Corporal himself. He has not been back to the School since he stopped playing soccer for the OAs and began playing rugby for Nicholes 15 years for the Bank of England.
Julian Nicholes (B2001-08) joined the Army for initial training at Pirbright, January 2013 and passed out as Private Nicholes in April. The next 26 weeks of training in the Royal Military Police was based at Southwick Park, Hampshire at the Defence College of Policing and Guarding. This stage of training would equip him to become a policeman in the RMP and he gained his warrant at the passing out parade, October 2013 as Lance Corporal Nicholes. He was then Did you know? posted to Gutersloh, Germany. At School, Julian was a School Prae Excerpt from the Aldenhamian March scored by both sides, but owing to the 2007-08, Deputy House Captain, Senior 1940 absence of a referee and the disregard of NCO in CCF 2008. time and space, no official score was kept. Ice Hockey No bones were broken, and both sides School v. Masters agreed the result was highly satisfactory.’ Played on Aldenham Reservoir Result: Indeterminate Teams: (approximately by the end of the The right game) ‘In its initial stages, the game purported Mr V A Cox (CR1937-40), Mr G W chemistry to be a match between the Staff and the Mabbott (CR1930-44), Mr W H Kennedy School; but the former were unable to (CR1934-59), Mr C J Leighton (CR1930- raise a full side, and as the game 39), Thomas Argile (B1935-39), Joseph n July 2014, Laurence Justin (R2005-10) progressed sundry OAs, masters and Mence (SHO1935-38), Leslie Worssam was awarded a 2.1 for his Masters spectators joined in. (B1935-38), Peter Small (B1938-41), Degree in Chemistry at Loughborough Philip Thompson (SHO1935-40) I University. His mother, Sheila, wanted to Play was fast and often quite professional. Several players seemed indefatigable, and Frank Duncan (SHE1936-40), Peter Savill share this news with the School and to showed great skill and daring. (SHE1936-40), Anthony Ellis (P1935-40), thank all the Staff for the dedication Kenneth Denham (P1936-40), David Blake and encouragement Laurence was given Ordinary hockey sticks were used, but a (1939-43), Richard Ball (B1936-40), Derek whilst at Aldenham. genuine puck was produced and greatly Roberts (SHE1936-40), Patrick Hewitt He now plans to continue his studies enhanced the play. Numerous goals were (SHO1936-40), Donald Fitt (B1935-40) at Bristol University. Old Aldenhamian Day
Sunday 7th June 2015
All OAs welcome
The focus will be a McGill’s Gaudy hosted by Mike Yeabsley, the new Housemaster of McGill’s, and his wife, Clare Yeabsley (née McCarty K1988-90). Personal invitations will be sent early next year to OAs who were in McGill’s.
Please ensure that the Development and OA Office has your correct contact details, including an email address and help spread the word about this reunion.
As always all OAs will be welcome to attend OA Day, especially Old Girls and Kennedy’s OAs who knew Clare when she was a Sixth Former at the School.
A programme for the day’s events will be announced nearer the time and you are welcome to attend all or part of the day.
Please register your intention to attend by email to [email protected] or by completing the slip below by Monday 18th May 2015.
✁ Booking Form - OA DAY 2015 House & dates at Aldenham
Name Telephone (home)
Address Telephone (work)
Telephone (mobile)
Post Code Email
I would also like to bring a guest, his / her name is
Please indicate any special dietary requirements ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 6.00pm Wednesday 11th March 2015
The Whitbread Room, Aldenham School
An Agenda will be circulated in advance of the meeting. Please send items for discussion to the Development & OA Office.
There will be a complimentary Supper at 7.30pm for OAs and their guests.
If you are unable to attend the meeting you are welcome to attend the Supper only.
For catering purposes, please register your intention to attend by email to [email protected] or by returning the slip on the right
ANNUAL DINNER 2014 Friday 21st November at Aldenham School
6.15pm Drinks Reception in The Apthorp Room of The Wells Centre
6.30pm Presentation by The Revd Canon Joe Hawes (SHO1978-83)
7.30pm Dinner in the Dining Hall
Wives, husbands and partners are also invited
Tables seat up to 12 people
Dress: Black Tie or Lounge Suit Ladies: Evening Wear
Tickets: £39 per person or special discounted rate of £27.50 per person for those 25 and under on the day of Dinner
(Ticket price includes half bottle of wine, a 4 course dinner & coffee)
Bookings to Ian Luetchford c/o Development & OA Office, Aldenham School, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AJ by Monday 10th November 2014
Enquiries to Jackie Wilkie [email protected] Tel: 01923 851 614
IS IT TIME TO RENEW YOUR OA SUBSCRIPTION?
New membership subscription arrangements were unanimously approved at the Society’s AGM in 2002 to enable the Society to provide members with an improved service, in particular expansion and improvement of the OA website.
All existing Life Members who left the School twenty years ago or more are invited to pay a voluntary annual subscription to the Society. An appropriate sum would be £10 per annum though the Society would welcome larger amounts.
If you left School in Summer 1994 or before, you are invited to start paying a voluntary annual subscription to the Society.
Should you wish to make a voluntary annual subscription, please complete the Standing Order form (right) and return it to the Development & OA Office. If you plan to attend the meeting &/or the Supper please complete & return this form to the OA Office, Aldenham School, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AJ or email: [email protected]
Name House & dates at Aldenham
Address Telephone
Post Code
I will be attending the AGM / Supper / and will bring guests to the Supper.
Please indicate any special dietary requirements ✁ Booking Form - Annual Dinner 2014 House & dates at Aldenham
Name Telephone (home)
Address Telephone (work)
Telephone (mobile)
Post Code Email
I would also like to bring a guest, his / her name is
I would like ticket(s) at £39 I would like ticket(s) at £27.50 (age 25 years and under)
Cheque enclosed for £ made payable to “Old Aldenhamian Society”.
Please indicate any special dietary requirements
I will arrive for the drinks reception and pre-dinner talk in The Apthorp Room of The Wells Centre Yes / No
Please return this slip to Ian Luetchford, c/o Development & OA Office, Aldenham School, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AJ by Monday 10th November 2014. ✁Enquiries to Jackie Wilkie Email: [email protected] Tel: 01923 851 614 STANDING ORDER AUTHORITY Please return the completed form to: Richard Peart, Treasurer, Old Aldenhamian Society Voluntary Membership Subscription Old Aldenhamian Society, c/o Old Aldenhamian Office, Aldenham School, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AJ
Name
Address Telephone
Post Code
I would like to make a Voluntary Membership Subscription to the Old Aldenhamian Society of £ each year
Start date Until / further notice
Name(s) of Account Holder(s) Please Pay For OA Office use only Name: Old Aldenhamian Society Bank/ Building Society details Bank: NatWest plc
Bank/ Building Society address Account no.
Sort Code
Please debit my / our account accordingly. Post Code Signature Account no. Sort Code
For OA Office & Bank use only
Bank please quote as Ref Date ✁
✁ Over 950 former pupils and staff of Aldenham School served their King and country during the Great War.
One hundred and sixty three paid the ultimate sacrifice. First World War Centenary Tributes 36 First World War Centenary Tributes
Aldenham’s fallen
ne hundred and sixty three The immediate trigger for war was June By the end of the war, four major Old Aldenhamians and Staff 28th 1914 with the assassination of imperial powers - the German, Russian, ‘Ogave their lives during the Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires First World War. Many were very young, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary, by - ceased to exist. such as Christopher Blake (M1906-10), Yugoslav nationalist Gavrilo Princip in In May 2011, the School dedicated a who had graduated with a theology Sarajevo. This set off a diplomatic crisis plaque in St George’s Memorial Church degree from Emmanuel Coll., when Austria-Hungary delivered an at Ypres, Belgium, to commemorate the Cambridge, 1913. 2nd Lieut. Bedfordshire ultimatum to the Kingdom of Serbia, members of the School community who Regt. 1915. Died from wounds on his and international alliances formed over died in the First World War and also first day of action in France, aged 24, the previous decades were invoked. those who have died in subsequent Aug. 28th 1916. Within weeks, the major powers were at conflicts.’ Eleven families suffered the double war and the conflict soon spread around Extract taken from Aldenham School – tragedy of losing two sons. the world. A Foundation for Success Memorial plaques in Aldenham School Chapel
Lawrence Guy Holt Harold Leslie Charles James Hunter Reading Lawrence Guy Holt (SH1908-13). Son of Charles James Hunter (1907-09) Joined Horace W Holt, of Bushey, Herts. Harold Leslie Reading, the Artists’ Rifle Regiment Sept. 1914, and Exhibitioner. Foundation Scholar of Trinity (SH1911-16) younger son went to France Dec. 2nd Lieut. 2nd College, Oxford, 1912. 2nd Lieut. of Mr and Mrs W A Bedfordshire Regt. 1915. Wounded twice Bedfordshire Regt. 1914. Capt. 1915. MC. Reading, Douglas House, (France). Transferred to Labour Corps. Capt. Killed in action (France) 28 September 1916. Beckenham. Football Died Nov 4th 1918. Colours 1914; Cricket Colours 1915. Platoon-Sergeant, Dec. 1915. Editor, Aldenhamian 1916; Keeper of the Fives Courts. Gazetted to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, 1917. Western Front early autumn 1917. 2nd Lieut. Royal Field Artillery 1917. Killed in action (France) 5 November 1917.
William Evers Leggott
William Evers Leggott Brian James Brett Walch (SH1908-11). (SH1910-1914) 2nd Lieut. (Son of William Crosby Walch, Stockbroker, 21st Battalion The Duke of of Sydenham.) Cricket xi 1911. 2nd Lieut. 4th Cambridge’s Own Middlesex Essex Regt., 1915. Died of wounds (Gallipoli) Regiment. Killed in action Oct. 28th 1915. (France) July 30th 1916 aged 19 years and 11 months. First World War Centenary Tributes 37
Frederick Kenneth Captain Henry Bardell Adamson Jackson Trayes Edward St John Norwood- Captain Henry Bardell Adamson (CR1910-16). Scholar, Marlborough College; Frederick Kenneth Ryan MC (SH 1908-13) Exhibitioner, Selwyn College, Cambridge Jackson Trayes (SH1911- graduating in the Second Class of the On declaration of war, Edward St. John 16), younger twin brother Classical Tripos, 1904. Capt. Officers’ Norwood-Ryan (SH1908-13), at once joined of Frank Hubert Jackson Training Corps; Capt. 21st West Yorkshire the Inns of Court OTC and was gazetted to Trayes (SH1911-16), Cricket Regt. He did not appear to like soldering for the East Surrey Regt. Oct. 5th 1914, Eleven 1915-16, Cricket Colours 1916. mere soldering’s sake: the ever recurring becoming 1st Lieut. on Nov. 28th 1914. Exhibitioner. Scholar of Pembroke College, burden of his letters was his longing to be In Jan. 1916, he transferred to the MGC, Cambridge, 1916. 2nd Lieut. Cheshire Regt. back at Aldenham once more. Died of and proceeded to France in March of that 1917. Killed in action (France) March wounds, Oct. 30th 1916. 23rd 1918. year. He returned to England in Sept. 1916, In a letter to his father, Mr F.E.A. Trayes having been wounded on the Somme at of Chester, his Commanding Officer Ginchy, but afterwards rejoined his old Second Lieutenant Norman describes how magnificently he and his regiment. He had also been in Italy, but was Brabazon Dick men had fought. ‘As soon as I was able, I again in France when the enemy’s attack wrote to the CO and told him of Kenneth’s was opened in March 1918, being moved Excerpts taken from the Aldenhamian 1917, splendid conduct, and recommended him later to the Ypres district. He was promoted ‘On the eve of publication news has for the Military Cross. Unfortunately he was Captain on Apr. 21st. Shortly before he was reached us which will be received with the missing and his gallant deeds will have to killed in action on Oct. 22nd 1918 in France, deepest sorrow by many of our readers. go unrewarded with many others similarly he was awarded the MC. We had already heard that Mr Dick was circumstanced.’ (The Machine Gun Corps was formed in wounded on April 28th, and missing since Frank Hubert Jackson Trayes (SH1911- October 1915 in response to the need for that date. We were further told that he and 16), older twin brother of Frederick Kenneth more effective use of machine guns on the a portion of his regiment were surrounded Jackson Trayes, served as Naval Cadet, Western Front in World War 1. The Heavy by a much larger force, so that escape was 1916, HMS New Zealand. Lieut. RN (retired). Branch of the MGC was the first to use impossible. He was shot by a German Caius Coll., Cambridge, 1920; Fitzwilliam tanks in combat, and the branch was sniper, and never moved after he fell.’ House, Cambridge, 1924; BA 1926. MA 1929. subsequently turned into the Tank Corps, Norman Brabazon Dick (CR1908-17) was Assistant Schoolmaster. Retired 1951. later called the Royal Tank Regiment, the educated at Merchant Taylors’ School, MGC was disbanded in 1922). where he held a Scholarship, and later won a Scholarship in Mathematics at Sidney Sussex Coll., Cambridge, graduating in the Harwood Linay Clover Mathematical Tripos of 1904 as 3rd Senior Optime. Prior to enlisting in 16th Middlesex Harwood Linay Clover (P1907-11). (Son of Regt., Dec. 1914, he played for Saracens Isaac Ernest Clover, Flourmiller, of Sudbury, Rugby Club. 2nd Lieut. 17th Middlesex Regt. Suffolk.) 2nd Lieut. 7th Royal Dublin 1916. Killed at Oppy, France, April 28th 1917. Fusiliers 1914; Lieut. 1915. Wounded Gallipoli. Attached Royal Flying Corps. Acting Adjutant 1916. Died 23 December 1916. Age 23 1/2 years.
Philip Ernest Viney Charles James Oswald Bernard Haines Shelley Dalbiac Philip Ernest Viney Oswald Bernard Haines (SH 1904-09). (B1899-1904) Sandhurst, Charles James Shelley Major Royal Northumberland Fusiliers. leaving in 1907 for the 1st Dalbiac (B1907-12). Son of Great War, 13th Northumberland Fusiliers; Battalion at Shorncliffe. Col. Philip Hugh Dalbiac, Croix de Guerre. He was Mentioned in 2nd Lieut. 1908. CB., of Seal, Kent. RMC, despatches. Survived. Leicestershire Regt. Capt. Sandhurst 1913. 2nd Lieut. Prisoner of war of the Japanese, 1914. Mentioned in despatches. Died of his 1st Northumberland Fusiliers 1914. Killed in 1942-45. wounds Bailleul, France Dec. 17th 1914. action (Flanders) 16 June 1915. 38 First World War Centenary Tributes
Arthur Hyde Hills (M1896-1902)
Although Arthur Hyde the 1/8th Battalion in Alexandria at the end Hills was a Londoner, of the month, relinquishing his Captaincy. born on 26 October His new battalion had been at Gallipoli but 1882, his family had moved to Egypt in December 1915 and then been well established went to Palestine. for several Arthur was posted wounded and missing generations in on 19 April 1917 having taken part in the Maidstone. Junior disastrous 2nd Battle of Gaza on that day. Platt Scholar, 1897. His body was never recovered and he is Senior Platt 1899. remembered on the Jerusalem Memorial as Praeposter 1901. well as his parents’ gravestone in Ryde New Cricket Colours 1901-02. Football Colours Cemetery. In a tribute to him published in 1902. During his last year he acted as the School magazine, a brother officer Secretary of Games and of the wrote: Aldenhamian. He was also Librarian and a ‘It is in adverse times of scorching member of the Shop Committee. monotony when men show the cards they Exhibitioner Gonville and Caius Coll., really hold. He was so sound, and he was Cambridge, 1902. BA 1905. kind and thoughtful for others.’ At College, Arthur continued his interest in football and cricket. The Caian states he played Right Back and that he should ‘learn to feed his forwards more’. He is mentioned as a brilliant batsman in the ‘exceptionally strong’ cricket team (The Caian IV p60). He was also a Lance Corporal in the Cambridge Geoffrey Ralfs Middleton University Rifle Volunteers. His obituary in The Caian states that (M1904-07) Arthur taught for a time at Verneuil after he left College before becoming an Joined Army Service Corps (Motorised accountant. He was a partner in the firm Transport) 1915. The ASC were the unsung of Cole Dickin and Hills. He married Mary heroes of the British army in the Great War. Morton from Dunbartonshire and they Soldiers cannot fight without food, had two daughters, Mary Louise and equipment and ammunition and the Evelyn Jean. majority of this tonnage, supplying a vast On 12 June 1915, Arthur joined the Inns army on many fronts, was supplied from of Court where he was a Lance Corporal Britain. Using horse-drawn and motor and was gazetted a 2nd Lieutenant in the vehicles, railways and waterways, the ASC 2/8th Battalion, the Hampshire Regiment in performed prodigious feats of logistics and September. Shortly afterwards he was were one of the strengths of organisation promoted Temporary Captain. His officer’s by which the war was won. records reveal that he sailed in the troop Edward Bernard Middleton (M1962-66) ship SS Orsova in January 1916 and joined emailed, ‘I know nothing more about GRM other than the fact that he died on 14 November 1918, rather poignantly three days after the Armistice. He was indeed my Evan Cyril Jenkins John Rhys Davies great uncle as were Donald Tindall (M1892-1899) Middleton (M1901-04) Great War, Malay Jonathan Skidmore emailed the States Volunteer Rifles; Cecil Bernard Development & OA Office as, for the past 3 Great nephew of Alfred Leeman, Middleton (M1913-16) and Stephen years, he has been researching and writing Headmaster at Aldenham School and now Middleton (M1910-13) Capt. Royal Garrison the history of his home town of Briton House named after him. House Capt. 1898, Artillery, Great War, mentioned in Ferry, South Wales during the Great War Cricket xi 1897-99. Football xi 1896-99. despatches. Joseph Boswell Middleton 1914-1918. As part of the book, he is writing Scholar of Caius Coll., Camb. 1899. BA 1902 (M1899-02), my grandfather, enlisted detailed obituaries of all the men on the (Class Trip., Class II.) Assistant Master at Honourable Artillery Company. Seved in local memorial. There is one OA listed, Lexden House School Jan. 1903-15. 2nd France, Belgium and Germany 1917-19. namely Evan Cyril Jenkins (M1900-03). Lieut. 23rd London Regt. Died of wounds Bernard Middleton (M1931-34) was my Known as Cyril, he was born on May 27th (Palestine) Nov. 28th 1917. father. Oliver Barry Strode Middleton 1885, the son of the Chairman of the (M1966-71) and I were the 3rd generation Baglan Bay Tinplate Works and the of the family to be at Aldenham.’ grandson of the manager of the Briton Hugh Seymour Ferry Iron works, a pioneering works in its day. He joined 20th Battalion Royal Fusiliers Blane in 1914. Served in France. Gassed. Attached Harold Harington Balfour Hugh Seymour Blane 13th Royal Fusiliers. Died of wounds (B1896-1902). Football xi Harold Harington Balfour (M1912-1912) (France) April 5th 1918. 1901-02. 2nd Lieut. 1905, later Lord Balfour of Inchrye. Flight-Lieut. 19th Bengal Lancers. Capt. RAF. Great War King’s Royal Rifle Corps; 1914. Died of wounds Major; MC and Bar. Croix de Guerre. Died 21 (France), 1 November 1914. September 1988. First World War Centenary Tributes 39
The Latter Brothers was aware that the other was in India. five cavalry divisions were quartered Laurie returned to Basra on 16 July 1916 behind the front line in little farms and Born at Stockwell, London on 9th March rejoining his battalion on 10 September. villages and during the nights were in 1896, Stuart Laurence Latter (B1910-13), The 39th Brigade went into action on demand to provide trench digging details attended Cliftonville Preparatory School 14/15 December at Hai and again more for the infantry. One night in early summer before going to Aldenham in September seriously on 25 January 1917. On 5 of 1917 the 6th were occupied with enemy 1910. He left for medical reasons at the end February, the Turks abandoned the Hai action. The men set off, dismounting near of term, July 1913 at which point after a salient and 13th Division slowly pushed the front, leaving their horses in groups trepanning operation he went to Chelsea them back further. The fighting was bitter under guard and proceeded up the College of Art. He was present at the and casualties heavy. On 10 February, communication trenches. The horse lines Aldenham OTC camp at Tidworth in 1912 Laurie remembered Sikhs running back in were shelled injuring Frank’s horse, and 1913. confusion as his battalion moved up in Postbox, which galloped off never to be At the outbreak of war, he was assigned support and shortly afterwards, fell badly seen again. Some five or six weeks later to the 1st Battalion UPS Brigade Royal wounded in his left foot. The bullet entered Frank was going on leave and out of the Fusiliers, renamed 20th [Service] Battalion, his left heel and he crawled into a shell hole train window he saw Postbox amidst a Royal Fusiliers. Laurie was sent home to where he was joined by his young batman, column of British artillery moving up to the Margate as there were no uniforms or arms Howell, a former miner. Howell peeped over front. He ran down the embankment and and in early September 1914 was ordered to the rim and was shot dead. Laurie got hold of his halter saying ‘this is my report to the Hyde Park barracks. Called to remained in his shelter for many hours charger’. The Artillery Sergeant denied it. the Colours, the 20th RF were based at before being collected. That was the end of ‘It had always been a Royal Artillery horse.’ Woodcote Park camp, Epsom where a good Laurie Latter’s war. What he didn’t know was that horses of part of their time was spent digging Evacuated to Bombay, his medical board Indian Cavalry regiments were all marked trenches on the RAC Golf course as there decided to send him to Natal, where he was on a back hoof. Frank duly lifted ‘Postbox’s’ was a very real fear of invasion in the early in hospital for some weeks, he finally hind leg and there were the initials 6C. So autumn of 1914. arrived at Avonmouth on HM Hospital ship he got his mount back and had to delay his Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant Guildford on 5 August 1917. He went to the home leave and ride ‘Postbox’ back to the (Temporary) January 1915, Laurie went to Prince of Wales Hospital in Marylebone regiment. the Buffs [East Kent Regiment] and joined where he had a further operation in Frank was promoted to Lieutenant and the 8th [Service] battalion formed by September. He relinquished his Commission took part in the battle of Cambrai on 20 Colonel Romer. Initially at Sevenoaks, it was on 18 August 1918 on account of ill health November 1917 and early in 1918, was asked soon moved to Shoreham, where most of caused by wounds. He was granted the if he would like to be an ADC to Lieut. its training took place. honorary rank of Lieutenant and awarded a General Sir Charles Kavanagh, known as In July or August the battalion received 35% disability pension. He was ‘Black Jack’, who commanded the five orders to proceed to France via permanently lame and in 1975 was treated divisions of the Cavalry Corps. However, Southampton. Once in France, the 8th were at the King Edward VII Hospital for Officers this plum job did not materialise as at the plunged into the ghastly battle of Loos. and went afterwards to recuperate at end of February the Indian elements of the Having been nowhere near the front they Osborne House, Isle of Wight. 4th & 5th Cavalry Divisions were ordered to marched to the battle area on 21 Frank Austen Latter (B1912-15), Egypt to join General Allenby’s Egyptian September 1915. On the night of 25 Sept. younger brother of Laurie, attended Expeditionary Force [EEF] in the continuing they marched 22 miles to attack the village preparatory school in Seaford before going struggle to defeat the Ottomans in of Hulluck. Twelve of the 24 Officers to Aldenham in April 1912. Unlike Laurie he Palestine. The 6th left from Marseilles via present, including Col. Romer, were killed was a talented sportsman. Football XI Malta. On entering Valletta harbour their and eleven were wounded. 1914-15. House Captain, Beevor’s, 1915. transport collided with a Japanese Laurie had a very lucky escape and Lieut. Indian Army 1916, Frank departed destroyer which was part of the allied naval remained with the 9th until November 25th for Wellington Cadet College in Wellington force in the Mediterranean. 1915 when transferred to the 7th [Service] South India in the Spring and was a key Frank served in Palestine from March- battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment. player in the College soccer team. August 1918. The newly arrived Indian This unit, part of 39th Brigade 13th Division, Commissioned in November 1916, he was Cavalry joined other mounted units under had been sent to Gallipoli in July 1915 and sent to the 39th Garhwal Rifles. This multi General Chauvel. April-August was spent doubtless needed replacements. The 13th battalion regiment was one of the most preparing for the massive attack known as Division evacuated Gallipoli in early battle hardened and highly rated in the the battle of Megiddo. The 12th Brigade January. Laurie had only just reached the Indian Army. spent the time in the boiling heat of the base island of Lemnos and went with his At Lansdowne, he was kitted out with a Jordan valley and Jericho. Oranges formed new unit to Egypt. The 7th Gloucesters had Rifle Officer’s sword, now in the possession a large part of the diet and he never ate largely been recruited from Forest of Dean of his grandson, Edwin Schooling-Latter another one for the rest of his life. On 5 miners. Laurie maintained his Buffs (B1984-86). The ‘wastage’ of troops on the August he was promoted Acting Captain identity, always wearing their cap badge Western Front had led to an acute shortage and Squadron Commander and, at the end and describing himself as “The Buffs, of officers in the twelve Indian Cavalry of August, was ordered back to India to attached 13th Division”. regiments in France. Frank applied and was help form a new regiment, the 44th Cavalry The 7th embarked at Port Said for Basra eventually assigned to the 6th King for service in Persia. Consequently he on 16 February 1916 then followed the 7th Edward’s Own Cavalry [Bengal Army] then missed participating in the last great to the front. Laurie took part in the first served with the Sialkot Brigade, 4th Indian cavalry action of the British Army. battle of Sannaiyat on 20 April, a failed Cavalry Division. Towards the end of 1918 he was stationed attempt to relieve the force blockaded at Frank reached France in March 1917 with at Sibi in Baluchistan on the border with Kut. Wounded and evacuated to India, he a party of reinforcements, landing at Persia. The proposed Persian expedition landed at Bombay where, at the station, he Marseilles. While supervising the unloading was aborted by the end of the war and the bumped into his brother Frank Austen of horses on the quayside, he was 44th Cavalry disbanded. The 6th KEO had Latter (B1912-15), who had just arrived en vigorously attacked by an elderly French remained in Palestine/Syria and Frank route for the Indian Army cadet college at lady with an umbrella shouting that she re-joined them there in September 1919. So Wellington in South India. Neither brother hated the English. Through most of 1917 the ended Frank’s war. 40 First World War Centenary Tributes
Graham Hirtzel 2nd Lieut. William Darbyshire Holmes Collinson
Graham Hirtzel 2nd Lieut. William Holmes Darbyshire, (SH1897- Collinson (B1903-06). 1900). Cricket Eleven Only son of Mr and Mrs 1899. 2nd Lieut. Royal WRF Collinson of Hornsea, Field Artillery, 1914; Capt. E. Yorks. Joined 1915. Killed in action on the Western Front, Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) as a France, Oct. 8th 1917. private and went to France September 1914. Lieut. 6th Northumberland Fusiliers 1915, and was Machine Gun Officer to his Bryan Barrington Palmer Battalion when he was killed near Ypres, 5 January 1916. Bryan Barrington Palmer (B1915-16) William was buried near Ypres, about a Sub-Lieut., Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS), mile from the trench where he was hit. The 1917. He met his death by accident, his Commonwealth War Graves Commission machine coming down shortly after record states his age as unknown, but he starting, when he was flying from was 25, just two months short of his 26th Edinburgh to Glasgow in order to fetch a birthday. His name is also recorded on the new machine. war memorial in Beverley Minster, and on the Beckenham War Memorial, along with A Dead The family home in 1911 was Ivy House, Bushey High Street and is remembered on over 700 other names of local men who a Commonwealth War Graves Commission were casualties. Unveiled in July 1921, it sits on a roundabout on the A21 near Catford Man’s gravestone in Bushey churchyard. He is also commemorated on the Bushey war dog stadium, just two miles from his home. memorial and on the memorial plaque in Penny St James’ Church, Bushey.
The Memorial Plaque or Dead Man’s Penny was issued to the next of kin of servicemen and women who had fallen in the Great War between 1914 and 1918.
he medallion, made of bronze gun metal, was 12 centimetres T(5 inches) in diameter and 1,355,000 plaques were issued using 450 tonnes of bronze. The design incorporated symbols and words including Britannia holding an oak wreath, an imperial lion, two dolphins representing Britain’s Naval forces, a rectangular tablet containing the deceased’s name. Rupert Carr Besides the many gifts to the School during his lifetime (including the brick gateposts, No rank was given as all men were Clift wrought iron School Gates and the statue considered to be equal along with the Rupert Carr Clift of Hermes), he bequeathed in his Will words, ‘He died for freedom and honour’ (SH1914-1917) Scholar. several sums to the School for specific around the perimeter. Only 600 were purposes - £800 to be expended on Football Eleven 1917. issued for women with the words, ‘She building permanent changing room Capt. 1917. Captain of died for freedom and honour’. The the School Sept. 1917. Editor of the accommodation round the School Memorial Plaque was accompanied by a Aldenhamian. Gazetted to the 5th Dorset swimming pool and a squash court; £500 Regt. 1918, with whom he served on the upon trust for the purchase of fives balls; Memorial Scroll, a letter from Buckingham Western Front. Pembroke Coll., Cambridge, £200 for planting trees; his grand piano, Palace and sometimes a letter from the books and pictures. 1919 and took Second Class Honours in the Commanding Officer was included. English Tripos, 1920. When he came down He died as a result of an accident while from Cambridge, he succeeded Mr Beevor playing fives, April 24th 1937. as a master at Aldenham, 1922. First World War Centenary Tributes 41
War Medal Rolls 1914-19
Name House and Awards Memorials dates The Revd Paul Ogilvie Ashby SH1879-85 MC Lord Harold Harington Balfour M1912-12 PC MC & Bar Croix de Guerre ocal memorials of the First World of Inchrye War include the building of the Bernard Maurice Bauer SH1907-12 MC Letchmore Heath Village Hall, L Charles Barnard Bird P1908-12 MC which has been the centre for countless Canon Arthur Cecil Blyth B1904-09 MC different activities, and is still used by John Arthur Mallock Bond M1906-08 CB CBE MC Croix de Guerre many villagers today. Philip Brachi SH1905-09 MC On 4th December 1920 a Celtic cross Charles Edward Correll SH1907-10 MC was unveiled on the Letchmore Heath Charles Maurice Down M1903-06 Croix de Guerre Village Green by Viscount Hampden Ian Archibald James Duff SH1908-14 MC which now records the names of local Eric Lionel Fairclough B1911-13 MC men killed in both World Wars. The Alexander Key Fison SH1904-10 MC School CCF and brass band joined in the Thomas Frederick B1906-12 MC Remembrance Day Service at the War Gordon Furze SH1900-06 MC Memorial in 2013 as they have on many Lionel John Gardner M1899-1903 MC previous occasions. Henry Lex Francis Adam Gielgud SH1892-1900 MC There are also private memorials on Frederick George Goodyear M1908-11 MC some of the houses in the village Oswald Bernard Haines SH1904-09 Croix De Guerre including one which reads: Harry Henry Harold Hemming B1907-10 OBE Walton Keen left this house April 25th Philip James Vaughan Lavarack B1903-06 MC 1917 to fight for his King and Country John Leacroft SH1902-07 MC and Bar and fell in action in France April 18th Roland Luker M1891-97 MC 1918 aged 19. John Alister Mackinnon M1906-10 MC Percy Merryfield Meeson B1900-03 MC Deric William Parkes SH1906-13 MC Thomas George Paulin SH1894-1900 MM Charles Edward Murray Pickthorn M1910-11 MC Ernest Lancelot Pledger SH1888-93 DSO Richard Lang Roscoe B1910-14 MC Brian Walton Rowe SH1908-13 MC OBE Noel Huntly Campbell Russell SH1893-95 DSO Edward St. John Norwood Ryan SH1908-13 MC Charles Frederick Searle SH1899-1901 MC William Cavendish Searle SH1903-08 MC Richard Albert Belcham Smith SH1897-1903 MC Ellis Edward Spence B1906-08 MC Alastair Theodore Whitmarsh Stukely SH1907-12 MC Oskar Teichman SH1895-98 CdeG (F) MC MBE Geoffrey John Thompson SH1906-13 MC Wilberforce Onslow Times SH1901-07 MC Ion George Wakely SH1905-10 MC Cecil Eric Legrew Watkins B1909-12 OBE Maj Gen Harry Willans SH1907-10 CB CBE DSO MC TD George Charles Sanford Williams SH1909-13 MC George Clifford Winckley SH1910-13 OBE Louis John Wyatt SH1886-91 DSO
The above list is based on information gathered at the time of going to print, it will be updated by the Development and OA Office as details of further awards are discovered. 42 First World War Centenary Tributes
Letters Home from France 1915 In response to the introductory article we ran in last year’s OA Review p12, Anthony Bowman (B1933-37) now 94, sent in quite distinct from the ‘whizz bangs’ which you can tell by its a copy of ‘Letters Home from France 1915’ written by his noise, a shrill whizz and uncle, Hugh James Bowman (SH1907-11), 16th Middlesex immediately a loud bang. Nasty Regt. 1914. 2nd Lieut. 1915. horrid things but we always have the satisfaction to know that if we get six at a time from the Germans 31 December 1915 they will immediately get twenty Dear Mother from us. At last I am actually writing a letter This is the life of a signaller, as a in the ‘dug out’ sixty yards from the matter of fact the lines were laid Germans, some ‘dug out’ too about very badly here in the first place six foot by four foot dug out of clay and I am going to try to improve if with a tiny front door which you only the Germans will leave us can crawl down three very dirty alone a bit and not break them too steps made of sand bags into our much. I am wonderfully well I am home whose roof has a nasty habit glad to say especially as nearly all of leaking just where you do not day one’s feet are quite wet. Well I want it to and it also shows evident think I will shut up as it is 12.15am signs of collapsing the very first and I want to write one or two more bout of shell which comes letters now I have a few minutes anywhere near…… We are peace. expecting a bit of strafe tonight as a Your ever loving son, Hugh sort of New Year’s present. Last night the guns were at it hard all the time. I am very sleepy now so will just have a nap now as I have a chance. 7 January 1916 ere below are excerpts from Love to you all, I will write again Dear Father those letters, written with a soon. Just a short note to let you know I Hscratchy pencil whilst on active Your ever loving son, Hugh am still alive. I received your letter service in France, which have suffered and Mother’s parcel yesterday. The from the mud and water of the trenches: biscuits had got a little stale as they were in paper bags otherwise 5 January 1916 everything was all right. Germans 21 November 1915 Dear Mother here have been quieter lately, only a My Dear Mother I am on duty from 10pm to 1am in few high explosives on our Just a short letter to let you know the battalion headquarters (a cellar communication trenches per day how we are getting on. Although under a ruined house subject to a for which they receive about a six several ships have been sunk by little attention from the Germans bombardment from our artillery. stray mines let loose by the storms but quite safe)….The artillery which Snipers are our chief annoyance but we arrived safely at our port of has been busy on both sides today you can avoid them if you ‘keep disembarkation, the name of which seems to have gone to rest. your head down’. We have had you will probably guess I am not The communication trench, about five or six casualties (two allowed to tell you. ironically called after a well known killed) so far, none of them men I My address is simply Bowman, London street. Here the water is if knew well. Let me know if my 16 Middlesex, BEF (British anything deeper and the parapet photos of signallers have turned up Expeditionary Force) France. I will lower than before. However after yet if not I will write to the write whenever I get a chance but much whistling of bullets over our photographers about them. we are fairly busy so do not be heads and screaming of shells Love to all, I will write again surprised if letters are rather which burst a little way on throwing soon. intermittent. up huge clouds of black smoke – I remain your ever loving son, Love to all, Hugh. these are the proverbial ‘coal boxes’ Hugh First World War Centenary Tributes 43
PS It is now about 6.45am and I have been on duty since 4am so am not in an extra good mood for writing.
Hugh was killed in action on 10 January 1916 age 22.
Bevan John Nolan’s headstone is shown front row, second from right. The Irish on the Somme Telegram read: From: OHMS War Office Mrs Ruth Leeds wrote to Andrew Fraser, Bursar in January To: E Bowman, Hitchin, Herts this year. Deeply regret to inform you that 2nd Lt. H J Bowman 16th Middlesex Regt. was killed in am in my late eighties and trying Bevan Nolan, 2nd Lieut. Royal Irish Regt. action on 10 January. Lord Kitchener to tidy up my affairs! My uncle, 1915. Killed in action (France) 3 September expresses his sympathy. ‘I Bevan John Nolan (M1911-13) of 1916. He is mentioned on p.160 The Irish Secretary War Office Cahir, Co. Tipperary, was at Aldenham. on the Somme: ‘ In the camp the general He was killed in 1916 at the Somme. I verdict was: Nolan is destined for the VC He was buried behind the Marie in have a mug of his Easter 1911 – Senior or to die at the head of his platoon.’ Coinche Pas de Calais, later transferred Scratch Sixes Aldenham School ER 1597. His brother, Alexander Shelley Nolan to the War Graves Cemetery at Cambrai. I have no family left and wondered (M1911-13), was in the Cricket xi 1913. Hugh’s first cousin,Harold Bowman whether Aldenham School would be Capt. 7th Royal Welsh Fusiliers. He (P1910-13) enlisted 23rd Royal Fusiliers interested in having this returned?’ survived and went on to be a Sugar Planter. in 1914 at the age of 17. Boy bugler. Lance-Corporal. Died of wounds (France) 2 August 1916 age 19. Unfortunately no letters survive. Peace Day 19th July 1919 The First World War armistice came into effect at 11.00am on 11 November 1918, the ‘eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month’.
owever, WWI did not officially were in attendance. The Peace March end on 11th November 1918. The was one of the most impressive Htreaty negotiations at Versailles spectacles ever witnessed by Londoners continued long into the following year. and the world. Nearly 15,000 troops took In Britain the Peace Committee met part in the march, led by the victorious for the first time on 9th May 1919, they Allied commanders. outlined a celebration running over four King George V issued a message to days, including a Victory March through the wounded soldiers: London, a day of Thanksgiving services, “To these, the sick and wounded who a river pageant, and a day of popular cannot take part in the festival of festivities. victory, I send out greetings and bid The morning of Saturday 19th July them good cheer, assuring them that the 1919 saw thousands of people gathered wounds and scars so honourable in across London, they had flowed in themselves, inspire in the hearts of their overnight by train and bus. Numerous fellow countrymen the warmest feelings representatives of the allied nations of gratitude and respect.” 44 First World War Centenary Tributes
Aldenham School War Memorial Library
In 1848 the Revd Alfred Leeman (Headmaster 1843-76) had urged the School governors to provide a library for pupils and staff.
ome years later, during the First available for the erection of a library”. World War, the library report in the (The idea of also building a hall had SAldenhamian claimed that “in been dropped by this time.) The OAs wartime, the library is patronised more announced that they would consult a than in peace time”. On 12 December well-known architect to advise on a 1917 a special general meeting of the general scheme. Charles Blomfield, the Old Aldenhamian Society was held architect to the School, organised a where a resolution was passed that: competition and Michael Waterhouse “The memorial to those OAs and ARIBA was chosen to design the Library. Aldenham masters who have given their His plans were published in The Building lives in the war, shall take the form of a News for 22 June 1923. large school hall and library”. By December 1923 it was reported in Dr Alfred Hands Cooke (CR1900-20) the School magazine that “the War was Headmaster during WW1. His son Memorial Library is rising rapidly” and Alan Welldon Hands Cooke (SH1900-06), the following May, Stanley Owen those who had fallen should be an Cricket Eleven 1906-06. Football Eleven Buckmaster (SH1879-79) later 1st inspiration to the boys of the School – if 1905-06. King’s Coll., Cambridge. BA Viscount Buckmaster, GCVO PC KC, they were at all tempted to shirk 1909. Assistant Master at Malvern presented the Library to the governing anything – to maintain and encourage College 1912. 2nd Lieut. Worcestershire body. It was accepted by Francis Pelham the traditions of service which had been Regt., 1914. Wounded in Gallipoli. Capt. Whitbread, Chairman of Governors built in the 300 years the School had 22nd Durham LI. Mentioned in 1911-41, who then “committed it to the been in existence”. despatches. Missing, presumed killed charge of the Headmaster who received During the 1924 Christmas term the March 25th, 1918, aged 31. it on the School’s behalf”. As well as a book stock was moved from the old From that time on donations were number of dignitaries, about 600 old library to the new. At this time there was accepted and in 1922 the Society boys, parents and friends of the School a collection of about 1800 volumes. reported that “a little over £5000 (which attended the opening ceremony in the Herbert Charles Holden, parent of Henry when related to modern day earnings quadrangle. Lord Buckmaster concluded Patrick Holden (P1921-24), Richard would equate nearer to £900,000) is his speech by saying: “The names of Arthur Iredale Holden (P1923-26) and Michael Herbert Holden (P1928-32) donated ten oak chairs and his initials were carved on the backs; some of these chairs are still in use today. More chairs and some study tables were bought with money left over from the building fund. Initially the Library was open only to pupils in the VIth form; the other years were gradually allowed the privilege during the school year. Cecil Stott (CR1924-67) was appointed Librarian in 1924 and received national recognition for the model library he established at Aldenham, later becoming a founder member of the School Library Association. By the time Cecil Stott resigned forty three years later the Library had grown to 23,000 volumes, larger than many public library branches. This number has remained fairly constant with older material being replaced and newly published works First World War Centenary Tributes 45
added all the time, today with the addition of non-book materials and electronic publications. The Memorial Library is truly a living memorial. It has expanded over the years with an extension housing the fiction library in the Cecil Stott Room together with the Careers Library which was opened by Lord Denning in 1979, and although both these collections have moved, the Library still remains a focal point in the School. Alfred Leeman (SH1843-76) finally had his dream realised some 80 years later. The terracotta sculpture of Leeman as a young man, sitting, reading which was made by Alfred Gilbert (SH1865-72) while a pupil at Aldenham still has pride of place in the Library.
Did you know?
The more observant pupils have over the generations, wondered at the spacing of the dedication over the door to the War Memorial Library. This was in fact because the original sign writer had spelt thankful with two ‘l’s. 46 News and features
FA Grassroots Hero honoured Recognised for his commitment to grassroots football, Michael Ost (M1951-55), (Market Drayton Tigers FC), one of eight selected as winners by a panel of local Shropshire FA and McDonald’s representatives, received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Community Football from Sir Geoff Hurst.
n celebration of the 150th to shake their hands and, as we left the anniversary of the first meeting of room, I received a booklet containing Ithe Football Association, the FA held details of the 150 recipients and a a unique match at Buckingham Palace medal. on Monday 7 October 2013 to which Following lunch in one of the State Michael and his wife were invited. Rooms, the walls adorned with Thanks to the FA’s president, HRH The magnificent paintings, the first football Duke of Cambridge, asking his match played in the Palace ground grandmother’s permission, the started between Civil Service FC and organisation was able to honour 150 of Polytechnic, the two original teams of its most deserving servants of the game, the FA. Polytechnic won 2-1. Waiters the real Grassroots Heroes, in an awards brought oranges and Mars bars on silver ceremony at the Palace. trays at half time. Towards the end a ‘We sat in tiered rows listening to practice session started involving Prince short speeches from Greg Dyke, William and Michael Owen. The Prince Chairman of the FA and Prince William, wore a pair of boots donated by Wayne Duke of Cambridge. I was called forward Rooney with WR on the sides.’ Cycle ride up Mont Ventoux Patrick Ford (SHE1973-76) wasn’t able to make it to this year’s School House Odds/Evens Gaudy but instead emailed the following:
limbing Mont Ventoux in we left the tree line and the summit memory of my father was an loomed large, I just knew that whatever ‘Camazing experience on several happened I was going to reach the top. It levels. I had set myself a target of 2 was harder than running a Marathon. hours, considered a good average time to Once the legs start to scream and you climb 22km and 2,000m. The morning are in bottom gear, there is nowhere else was hot and humid, there were a lot of to go. At least when running, you can people from all walks of life and all age slow down to a snail’s pace. groups on the road going up. I saw a The pre-training I did was just about couple of Dads with their young sons enough, but the gear set up on the bike going for it, which was just so inspiring. showed I could really have done with a One lad was no more than 8 years old. ‘Granny gear’. But for all that, I hit the There were the usual professional summit and spent an hour just sitting suspects in Lycra, cruising by as if I was down enjoying the moment and standing still but what blew me away thinking of my Dad....what great was the shear enormity of the circus memories! that is the Tour De France, all the I raised £450.00 for Ripple Africa, the followers in their campers etc. Malawi charity set up by Geoff Furber I made the first 1,000m on target in 1 (SHO1970-75). hour; the next 1,000m took me 1hr I would obviously have liked to raise 25mins. I took a fall at about 1,500m, a lot more, but I am not very good at the which knocked the wind out of me, but I money raising side of things. I’ll be picked myself up and carried on and, as making a habit of this, that’s for sure.’ News and features 47
Memories of Mark Hargreaves and Remembrance Sunday 1951
Having read, very sadly, the obituary for Mark Hargreaves (SHE1947-52) in the OA Review 41, Michael Watts (P1949-55) wondered if this might be of interest to OAs:
n the late 1940s and during the “Windy” Gale, would take the march of the November Church Parade in 1951, 1950s, it was not unusual for some past; and the Church Parade on I was told to learn the Last Post and ‘Isort of compulsory basic military Remembrance Sunday. Reveille. The senior bugler was Mark training at School. On Friday afternoons The OTC had a band for these Hargreaves, the best trumpet player in most of us donned the khaki uniform ceremonial occasions and the sound of the School orchestra and an inspiring which had been issued at the stores or bugles and drums soon appealed to me. leader. armoury by “Sarge”. He was a real live I was issued with a battered old brass The band led the march to the nearby no-nonsense former sergeant-major, not instrument and we repaired to nearby parish church at Aldenham on much over five feet tall, but immensely fields to see what notes we could Remembrance Sunday with the whole muscular and, besides running the achieve. Middle C, G and the next C were School following through the narrow Officer Training Corps, he took all the not too difficult but the quality of tone country lanes. Outside the church, in the School PT lessons, as well as any served merely to disturb and/or excite autumn sunlight, standing in the fallen voluntary fencing or boxing tuition. cattle grazing beyond. The next two leaves and beside the grey tombstones, After parade and inspection, there notes necessary for a bugler to be of any Mark Hargreaves and I waited in the were the usual classes such as map use at all, high E and G, took a little church porch for the signal to play from reading, weapons training or drill. But more time and were not always either Major H R Kirkwood (CR1946-72) each year there were two major accurate. or Lieut. G T Crawshaw (CR1947-74). occasions where the whole cadet force Membership of the band resulted Mark and I faced each other and played was assembled, with every boot, button after a few terms. The practices in the the Last Post and, after a short pause, and belt buckle gleaming, leather straps covered shed were both exciting and Reveille, while those inside the church shining and khaki belt and gaiters deafening. The two top buglers had listened and reflected. The significance immaculate. These two events silver instruments for which there was was not really clear to us then but comprised the General Inspection in the an annual competition. I managed to it means much more with each summer, when General Auchinleck or win the second one and so, by the time passing year.’ New Year Honours 2014 Congratulations to two past pupils of Aldenham School who were named in the New Year Honours list 2014:
CBE Birmingham City Football Club and John Dorrington Apthorp, OBE (P1949- current Vice-Chair, West Ham United FC, 53) In recognition of the grants he has she is also Small Business Ambassador given to small local charities through to the UK Government under Prime the John Apthorp Charity and the Milly Minister David Cameron. Apthorp Charitable Trust. Over the years In 2007, when she appeared on Desert he has donated money to many good Island Discs, Karren described her time at causes ranging form Radlett Scouts, Aldenham as ‘one of the best times I Radlett Art Society and local hospices. ever had. I got back my sense of who I Aldenham School has also benefitted was, and what I wanted to do. It was the from John’s generosity. kind of school that promoted your Karren Brady (B1985-87) was individualism and social skills.’ awarded her CBE for services to It was announced on 8 August 2014 entrepreneurship and women in that Karren Brady will join the House of business. Former Managing Director of Lords as a Conservative life peer. 48 News and features
OA Mentoring Overview 2013/14 Matthew
There have been some exciting new developments with the Edbrooke OA mentoring Scheme in the past year. (M2002-09)
Perhaps the most significant is that with We have an urgent need for a significant Gillian Edbrooke sent the valuable help from Bob Collins (Head of number of additional OA mentors with following email: the Sixth Form and Careers) and experience in all sorts of different Housemasters at the School, a number businesses, professions and industries. of Year 13 students have expressed keen There is an obvious benefit to those hen Matthew left interest in the Scheme and will shortly students leaving the School – whether Aldenham he took a gap be introduced to carefully selected OA going to university or straight into ‘Wyear since he had not Mentors. Those mentors will guide, the workplace. secured an Oxbridge place. Whilst encourage and advise their mentees If any OAs reading this Review would reapplying to universities he arranged to through the Sixth Form and beyond into be willing to offer some of their time to work as an Intern for an MP at their chosen careers and will remain mentoring, please can I ask you to Westminster up until the election was supportive thereafter for as long as contact Ann Saffery (Development and announced and then worked at The necessary. OA Manager) at Aldenham on 01923 851 Independent Parliamentary Standards With a vast network of OAs in a wide 612 or by email: [email protected] Authority (IPSA). variety of businesses and professions, our He secured a place at Exeter reading intention is to arrange work experience Politics, Philosophy and Economics placements for those students who may achieving a 1st Class Honours degree. be interested in knowing what it is David Hayes (SHO1963-68) Whilst applying for a Masters, once actually like in a real life working OA Committee Member with again he worked as an Intern at environment, before making firm responsibility for the scheme Westminster, but for a different MP. He decisions to commit to particular careers. [email protected] then took two part-time positions at Redress, a charity, and Dods, a research firm. He reapplied to Oxford and was Mentors accepted at Lincoln College for a one year Masters, reading Global Governance Armitage, Melita Jayne B1987-89 Cultural & Creative Industries and Diplomacy. (née Douthwaite-Hodges) Matthew still continues with his Bajaria, Chirag Dinesh SHO&R1987-92 IT music. Whilst at Exeter he was very Bingham, Anthony John P1963-67 Accountancy involved with a local church worship group, alternating between drums, Bromwich, Paul Charles K1970-75 Pharmaceutical guitar and bass, and back in London was Buzzard, Paul Jeremy CR1979-84 Accountancy part of the worship team at Holy Trinity, Coleman, Oliver C P&M2002-09 Arts, Entertainment, Sport, etc. Brompton. In his spare time, he plays with a Christian band, Empire Nation. Croft, Peter John Patrick K1962-66 Banking & Finance I would like to take this opportunity Goodfellow, Scott John M1979-84 Banking & Finance to say how appreciative we are of all Hayes, David Wingate Stuart SHO1963-68 Law & Charity that the Staff did for Matthew whilst he was at Aldenham. One day, I hope he Laurenson, Anthony Peter M1971-75 Catering, Hotels, Innkeeping etc. will tell you the same for himself.’ Mac, Dominic K1988-93 Management Nicholas, Robert James M1975-80 Building & Architecture Oliver, James Alan Crombie SHO1973-78 Property Pankhania, Sunil L1993-2000 Property Pearce, Ian Philip L1990-95 Civil Air Transport, Civil Air Transport Sutherland, Neil Anthony B1966-70 Medical services, Army Templeman, David Peter R1995-98 Watts, Marcus Redmayne M1976-81 Travel & Gap Services Obituaries and tributes 49
DEATHS House and dates at the School Died J R Adams B1941-44 1 November 2013 H B Ambrose SHE1939-41 31 January 2014 R A G Ashby B1948-51 3 June 2014 A F H Baillie B1935-39 2 February 2014 J A Barrett M1940-42 9 May 2013 N W Blackburn B1960-65 6 June 2013 Jan Chamberlain CR1982-2000 12 October 2014 A A Crassweller SHO1937-41 1 March 2014 N B Davey SHO1946-50 14 February 2014 P G Davies SHE1938-40 1 June 2014 N K Davis CR1958-62 27 Nov 2013 P R Edgar M1934-38 24 February 2014 K E Flatt M1933-36 27 August 2014 N Goodfellow SHE1935-39 28 July 2013 J M Grey M1943-48 5 December 2013 J C Guignard SHE1944-49 30 August 2013 J E Kentish SHE1947-51 07 September 2013 E C Leigh-Hunt B1936-40 3 February 2014 J A Mence SHO1935-38 12 May 2014 D B Mitchell P1942-45 30 August 2014 D S Oram B1946-51 30 December 2013 A J Owen B1948-52 11 August 2013 J Parker SHO1940-43 12 May 2014 B P Parsons M1944-49 22 April 2014 G J T Pitt SHO1938-41 16 October 2013 G E F Rawlins P1944-49 14 March 2014 C R Riding M1941-45 28 July 2014 M G Ridpath SHE1940-44 26 August 2014 R J St G Sproule M1937-40 11 May 2013 R I Stokes CR1949-83 29 September 2014 J R Thirkettle M1937-41 10 September 2014 P J F Toogood SH1948-53 8 September 2013 R F Tucknott SHO1949-54 23 June 2013 C Tyson CR1952-87 31 January 2014 C E Upton M1944-48 31 January 2014 N C Wright M1942-46 21 Oct 2013 A T J Wuertz-Field (aka Wurtz) SHE1952-56 1 February 2014
David John Billingham Director of Finance & Administration 1989-94 and School Governor 1996-99
he following notice appeared in who will be greatly missed by all Governors, Dr Tony Button. He had just the press and was sent by David’s his family and friends. By request a retired as Chairman of Watneys and Tson, Andrew. ‘ On 9th May David private funeral service took place at gave direct leadership working through died very peacefully at home aged 78 Westerley Crematorium on Thursday the Headmaster and the new Director of years after a long, very happy and 23rd May 2013.’ Finance, David Billingham (an successful life. An extract from Aldenham School accountant with a senior background in David John Billingham of North A Foundation for Success, ‘Michael GKN). Briefly the administration of the Nibley, Gloucestershire, beloved Higginbottom (Headmaster 1983-94) School was transformed. Both finances husband of Claire, adored father of felt the management structures had to and the assets of the School were Andrew and Kate, much loved be improved. The essential drive for properly and constructively managed.’ grandfather, brother and brother-in-law change came from the new Chairman of 50 Obituaries and tributes
Cyril Tyson (CR1952-87)
Cyril missed the boat – thank God!
Excerpts from Pascale Fowell’s Eulogy to her father on 25th February 2014
they are today and he used to say that He also played for the Oxford and you could be at the top of your game Cambridge football team, Pegasus, and one minute and then on the scrapheap for the Corinthian Casuals. the next, with a broken ankle. Thus he Part of his studies involved time opted for the more pragmatic choice of a abroad attending a summer term steadier administration post, all the placement at the Institut de Touraine in while continuing to further and broaden 1949, where he met his beloved Odile at his own education at night school. a Ball. She had crept out of the strict Indeed in 1940, Cyril sat his school local hostel for trainee nurses, in order matriculation certificate during an air to attend the dance with a friend and raid in a London basement. the rest, as they say, is history. In January 1941, Cyril was called up They were married in December 1951 to the army, eventually gaining the and lived in Mulhouse, where Cyril highest rank for a non-commissioned played for FC Mulhouse. Prior to that, he officer, rising to Sergeant Major. had spent a year in Strasbourg, teaching Football, which played such a large and also playing football for the Racing part in Cyril’s life, in fact saved it, at the Club de Strasbourg. t is often said that is it is not the start of his war. Whilst on initial training In 1952, Cyril joined Aldenham years in one’s life that count, but in Warminster, the Sergeant spotted School where he stayed until 1987, ‘Ithe life in one’s years! Cyril’s football talents and kept hold of making long-lasting friendships at the Cyril was lucky enough to have both him for the team for as long as he dared, School and in the village of Letchmore the zest for life and also the years, around 6 months. Heath. The family had a large house indeed 93 of them. Fortunately for us, this meant he that came with the teaching post, where Cyril Tyson was born in Darwen, missed the ship to North Africa on the children were able to live a happy, Lancashire in 1920, the eldest of 3 boys which his trainee comrades were care-free Enid Blyton existence, often born to John and Elsie Tyson. John was a torpedoed and subsequently perished. shared with their friends the Robertsons, coal miner in the local pits and Later, working within the a factor that surely influenced his eventually served as a sapper in WW1, administration of the heavy artillery decision to stay put when offered a during the pivotal campaigns of 1917. back-up in the Eighth Army, Cyril headship in Rio de Janeiro in the 1960s. Elsie was a cotton mill worker in travelled along North Africa and up Cyril taught French, Italian, cricket Darwen. Cyril’s youngest brother, Robert, through Italy, to Senigallia where he and football and in 1966, he famously died in infancy and he lost his beloved ended up running the artillery repair got the Arsenal team to play his First brother John at the age of 52. workshops, gaining his love of opera as Eleven football team, a game which they Cyril attended the local school in well as a love of the Italian language. lost 21-1! The “one”, being an own goal Darwen and was already displaying His main injury in Italy was when he by Arsenal!! much sporting prowess by the time he pulled his knee ligaments, playing In 1957, Cyril established the left at the age of 14. He told us that he football and was stretchered back to continuing six-a-side football had no shoes as a child, just wooden Naples by train, receiving much competition for ISFA, the Independent clogs. However, he must have had some sympathy along the way from the Italian Schools’ Football Association, organising football boots, because by the time he ladies, who thought that he’d been this competition until 1982, when it was reached his late teenage years he had injured in action; he didn’t like to taken over by a younger colleague. already been playing for Blackburn disappoint with the truth! That same year, Cyril retired from his Rovers under 15s and later for Burnley In 1947, following 2 further years in teaching role having instigated the new where, instead of taking up the offer to Italy, Cyril won a scholarship to Jesus Camp Aldenham, a summer holiday play professionally, he decided to join the College, Cambridge where he read camp for children which still runs today, ground staff. He then became Burnley’s French and Italian. There, he was now called, Camp Beaumont. youngest assistant secretary at the age of awarded a Cambridge Blue for football, In fact, in 1981 he started as Director 17 continuing to play at amateur level. captained the Jesus cricket team and of Camp Beaumont at Beaumont School Footballers’ wages were not what enjoyed every aspect of university life. Windsor, but did not approve of certain Obituaries and tributes 51
aspects and left, deciding instead to Cyril was treasurer of Holy Innocents start his own venture at Aldenham, Church for 20 years and wrote regularly on which proved excellent PR for the gardening matters for the village magazine. School. He bore the loss of his beloved Odile He also directed the appeal for the to leukaemia in 2006, bravely and it was all-weather Sports Hall at Aldenham only in the last 4 years that he had to and this legacy continues to bear fruit have more help from his wonderful for the School. carers, namely Sarah and Martine. Cyril and Odile had 5 children during Cyril left to join his beautiful Odile on their 45 years of marriage: Peter, Helene, 31st January 2014. Chris, Pascale and Michael, followed by Cyril, our wonderful Dad, Papi, 12 grand-children and 5 great grand- great-Papi, teacher, colleague, football children. He loved them all. coach and friend. To quote the famous Following retirement, Cyril and Odile Spurs song of 1970, ”Nice one Cyril, Nice moved to their first own home in one son!” especially on the athletics track. We will Adisham, Kent. miss him and many of us will fondly Tributes to Cyril Tyson remember his time with us at Ypres, where he was feisty and jovial as ever. Peter Easby (SHE1962-66) & Former Please pass the best wishes and A tribute from Ray Governor sympathy of the Committee to his Simpson, Burnley It was Cyril who enthused me to speak family at this sad time. French! Football Club Historian: Julian Allisstone (SHE 1978-83) urnley Football Club is Jonathan Coates (SHO1964-69 & Cyril was a cheerful man and affirming saddened to report the CR1997-2002) about my football. Also he was a super ‘Bpassing of another of the I was lucky enough to be in his French teacher, again his enthusiasm came club’s pre-war players, Cyril Tyson, lessons for three out of my five years as through even when teaching verbs and who has died in a care home in a pupil - though I am not so sure that he refereeing. His longstanding Birmingham at the grand old felt the same way about my presence in commitment to Aldenham even into age of 93. his classroom: it could not then have retirement is an inspiration with so Cyril was born in Darwen in been said that I displayed a natural flair much ‘short termism’ abounding. 1920 and joined the Turf Moor for languages! office staff at the age of 16. He Richard Vos (B1975-79) worked under Club Secretary Alf John Baugh (SHE1969-74) & Former He never did manage to teach me Boland, and was then signed as Governor French but I think that was down more an amateur player in the summer I played for three years in Cyril’s First XI to my lack of ability and application of 1937. at School and he supported me for than his! Cyril played at third team level many years in my football career after but his time on the Burnley staff School. David Sweetnam (K1976-81) was brief and, following the A great man who was kind to me and a outbreak of World War Two, he Bill Waite (CR1983-2002) much loved and well respected teacher. joined the Army. I am pleased that he died peacefully, After the War he won a place at after a long and fruitful life-time. John Stainer (M1956-59) Cambridge University, where he He was such an inspiration during my 2 became a Cambridge ‘Blue’ in Alison (CR1983-86) and Michael seasons in the First XI football team and football. He then went on to (CR1982-86) Wilcockson as Captain of Cricket - an influence for become a language teacher, We knew him when we first started the rest of one’s life. specialising in French and Italian, teaching at Aldenham. and was also a football coach. He Best wishes to the family. Anthony (Billy) Barrell (SHE1961-66) retired in 1986 and always spoke Please pass my condolences to the fondly of Burnley FC, continuing to Richard Jones (CR1962-94) Family. follow their progress for the rest of Thank you for your Email - even though his life. The thoughts of all of us at the news was sad. Simon Mitchell (K1970-73) Turf Moor are with Cyril’s family I have fond memories of being taught at this sad time.’ Neil Sutherland OBE (B1966-70) French by Cyril Tyson whom I recall being President, OA Society an inspirational teacher and devoted to Cyril was a super school master and a both football and the School. great influence on many of us at School, 52 Obituaries and tributes
Norman Bierman (M1954-59) I had no French teaching at university so Hood Riley (M1952-57) was Captain at I have fond memories of being coached started out in professional life with the Aldenham for season 1955. I will always by him. He gave me a strong football French I had been taught at Aldenham; remember “C.T’s” maxim “Do it simply, foundation, which I used at the which proved to be more than sufficient do it quickly”. University of Pennsylvania where I to survive in the French workplace to played on the Varsity team for four start with. Nigel Wright (M1967-72) years. It served me well as I made the In my final year I had considerable transition from Aldenham to a US Edward Middleton (M1962-66) dealings with him as he graciously College. Years later, I brought my two He was one of those unforgettable appointed me as Secretary of Football - teenage sons (both soccer players) to characters. I think this was due to my enthusiasm England, and we met Cyril while visiting rather than ability, but I cherished it the school. It was a treat for us all. Nigel Hyatt (SHO1955-59) nonetheless. Cyril Tyson was one of my teachers in He was a lovely man and a very Mat Baroudi (B1974-77) my sixth form years. He was an devoted and encouraging football coach My condolences to Mr. Tyson’s family. extremely nice man. God bless him. with a considerable history in the game, A sad loss. which I only found out later. I remember Christopher Raper (B1972-77) him bringing Arsenal Juniors and Simon Wesley (B1965-68) Unfortunately, I am not able to attend Corinthian Casuals to Aldenham for Cyril Tyson taught me French at A level Cyril’s funeral. I should be grateful if you fixtures and their willingness to come at Aldenham in 1967/8. I have could pass my deep condolences to his was a testimony to the high regard in particularly good memories of his family. Many thanks which Cyril was held. teaching which stood me in very good stead for the future, as well as learning Richard Hall (K1969-74) Michael Newfield (B1980-84) to survive the rigours of Corneille, I have passed on the news to most of the I was saddened to hear about Cyril Tyson enjoying les Fausses Confidences by OA Dunn Team. - he was responsible for introducing me Marivaux, and getting to grips with the to the Tour de France, and I have been an French philosophers Sartre and Camus. Roger Marsh (SHO1956-61) avid follower ever since! I have been living and working in He was very influential at teaching me France for some 30 years now and would French, which has remained in constant Michael Little (B1954-57) never have been sent out on secondment use and has enriched my life enormously. In my time he was referred to with to France by my first English employers affection and respect as “Titch Tyson” without such an excellent grounding in Yokey & John Roberts (SHO 1952-55) and as an outstanding French instructor French from Cyril Tyson and Mr Arkell Please accept our most sincere and a dedicated soccer coach/referee. (CR1962-93) who taught me at O level if condolences at the passing of “C.T.” I was I remember correctly. Secretary of football when Jonathan Robert Stokes (CR1949-83) & McGill’s Housemaster (1959-74) Philip Stokes, middle son of Robert and Hazel Stokes, wrote the following tribute to his Father:
obert was born on 3 August 1925 grocer’s shop on Silver Street which in Bournemouth to Elsie and was owned by his Uncle Jack and he RNorman, and was an only child. remembers helping - his gift wrapping The family moved to Salisbury where was exemplary - and told many stories generations of Stokes’ had lived and had of his memories of the family’s a family business. He often spoke of employees. trips to the New Forest and the coast At thirteen Robert won a scholarship and had a great attachment to that area. to Felsted School. As well as developing At seven, he went to Salisbury Choir as a singer and pianist, he continued School where his love of music was with his sport, particularly as a tennis developed and his sporting prowess player and a boxer. Although his time noted. His father managed the family there was disrupted by the school’s Obituaries and tributes 53
evacuation to Ross-on-Wye during the the Eastern Secretary of the Independent Modern Linguists like myself through Second World War, he had become a Schools Careers Organisation until his the intricacies of French and German to very accomplished pianist by the time final retirement in 1990. Higher Certificate. We were indeed he went up to St John’s College, In retirement Robert was always lucky to be taught by him. Cambridge to read Modern Languages. busy. After a three-month trip to South Some years later, in 1962, I returned He shared rooms with a fellow America he set about re-learning to Aldenham to teach and had Robert as Felstedian, first met his wife-to-be Hazel Russian and went to stay with families a senior colleague. Again his kindly help and made many lifelong friendships. He in both Moscow and later St. Petersburg and encouragement did so much to ease told of trips to Switzerland to act as a (twice) to immerse himself in the progress during those early years, back travel courier during the summers to language. He was a member of the at one’s “old school”. Later on when I hone his language skills, but also of Hertford Choral Society and the Church became Housemaster of Kennedy’s we family pressure for him to consider Choir and later was Treasurer of the were helped and advised by Robert and joining his father in managing the PCC, raising significant funds for church Hazel and guided through some of the grocer’s shop. He chose languages over developments. He played his grand intricacies of “Housemastership”. business after Cambridge and went to piano regularly, hosted evening musical During my time as a teacher of teach at Sedburgh School, a move which soirees in his house, joined the local French and German at Aldenham, on it appears led directly to the shop being branch of NADFAS, went to Proms and many occasions, I felt a sense of deep sold by Uncle Jack, who by then had art galleries and was a huge fan of personal gratitude to Robert. moved to South Africa for health reasons. Covent Garden. He was very loyal to At this time I would like to extend Hazel meanwhile was living in family and friends, adopting Hazel’s condolences to his entire family and pay Belsize Park, London and working for the god-children, continuing his habit of respect to this remarkable man, teacher Ministry of Aviation. On 17th August writing weekly letters, making visits, and friend.’ 1949 they were married and moved into organising trips and having visitors a flat in Radlett; Robert began to teach regularly to keep in touch. How he Roger Payne (CR1971-2000) ‘When I at Aldenham School. Soon afterwards would have loved to have been able to took over as Careers Master in 1983, they bought a house in Radlett where do all this with Hazel by his side. Robert Stokes had earned much respect his four children were born between Robert had a heart attack in 2009, but amongst his colleagues in other schools 1953 and 1958. In 1959 he became managed to continue to live in Dane End for his dedication and skill to Careers housemaster of McGill’s House, having for another two years, albeit in Guidance at Aldenham. The School was apparently resisted the temptation at increasingly restricted circumstances. at the forefront of Careers Education in some point to work with Hazel in In 2011 he agreed to move away from the independent sector at the time and London running a language school. the village, and sold The Stables, so his his advice was sought by many seeking Later he became Head of Modern last three years were spent in ‘senior to establish similar departments in their Languages and pioneered the living’ just outside Guildford close to own schools. On his retirement, Robert development of a Language Laboratory one of his sons. Typically, he was able to offer further support to to allow speaking skills to be developed. participated fully in many activities and these schools as a Regional Secretary of He was also dedicated to developing the excursions, until advancing dementia the Independent Schools Careers school’s careers capabilities, building limited his ability to cope with new Organisation (ISCO) and he regularly strong and lasting links over the years adventures. returned to Aldenham to give advice with industry, commerce and the He is survived by his four children, and support to us. professions. In January 1977 he David, Elizabeth, Philip and Richard. During his time as Careers Master, commenced a four month sabbatical Robert Stokes, born 3 August 1925, Robert Stokes had built up a network of sponsored by the Worshipful Company died 29 September 2014. contacts in industry and commerce. of Goldsmiths and produced a report Many of these contacts visited ‘Why Engineering?’ contrasting the Aldenham to take part in the weekly English and German approach to A selection of tributes series of careers talks to Lower Sixth engineering in industry which later he to Robert Stokes pupils. In a similar way, many other presented to the Finniston Committee. contacts participated in the Upper Sixth Just before leaving McGill’s House, Chris Arkell (B1946-52 & CR1962-93) Form Industrial Conferences, held Hazel and Robert bought and converted ‘At this sad time, I would like to pay annually and ‘sponsored’ by a different an old stable block in Dane End into a tribute to Robert, whose influence on company each year. The company family home where he lived until 2011. the School and me personally was supplied a group of young managers to They began to build a new life together immense. work through exercises with the pupils, in the village - an important foundation As a 6th former in the early fifties, I and to help them appreciate the for the following 40 years. Hazel died was lucky enough to be taught by Robert importance of teamwork. tragically young in 1978, which led and soon realised what an outstanding Robert was also active with other indirectly to early retirement from teacher he was. Thorough, immensely groups. The use of tests and interviews Aldenham in 1983 and a new career as well-informed and organised, he guided to help parents and Fifth Form boys to 54 Obituaries and tributes
gain an objective view of strengths and James James-Crook (M1968-72) thought of him and how pleased he weaknesses, and to offer advice on Robert Stokes was a very caring would have been to learn of my academic choices and career options, Housemaster and conscientious teacher. continued involvement with his subject. was pioneered in schools such as In particular, I remember the kindness Aldenham. Both pupils and parents and care shown by both Hazel and Robert Peter Tyson (K1966-70) needed help in making choices of A level when my brother, Neal (M1970-75), I knew Robert, not only as my French subjects and in exploring possibilities broke his jaw in several places whilst teacher but also through my father, for the future. In the Upper Sixth Form playing football. This resulted in his jaw Cyril Tyson (CR1952-87), as they both year, all pupils were given help with being wired up for several months worked in the same Department. their plans for university entrance and during which time Hazel arranged for the completion of the necessary forms. his food to be liquidised and fed to him Paul Shelton (P1965-70) It was not always easy to persuade through a straw and they arranged for I remember Robert well. He taught me pupils and their parents to be realistic. Neal to be accommodated on the Spanish and French and I must have ‘Gap’ years were popular with Aldenham ‘private side’. Both went out of their way had dealings with him in various pupils and were encouraged if they had to make him as comfortable as possible. extra-curricular affairs. He was a been well researched and planned. wonderful teacher - always challenging There will be many Old Nambi Viswalingam (K1974-76) his students to do better. Aldenhamians who will look back to A lovely man and one of my favourite their time at Aldenham with gratitude teachers. He ignited an interest in the Edward Corp (SHE1961-65) for the sound advice and for the Spanish language for me and also Robert Stokes taught me German O generosity of time that was given to presented me with the Careers prize. Level for 2 years. He was a very good them. They will also remember with teacher and I have remained grateful to affection a man whom they knew had Michael Rosenberg (B1954-57) him ever since for inspiring my love of their very best interests at heart.’ I often speak of him as someone who the German language and - of even inspired me not only to improve my greater importance - for introducing me ISCO French language skills but also to the lieder of Schubert and Schumann. ‘When he left Aldenham School Robert introduced me to French literature, I have never forgotten him. worked with ISCO, the independent some of which I can still recall and schools careers guidance service, as he occasionally recite amazingly. Peter Boorman (Headmaster 1974-83) was particularly interested in helping to A kindly peace loving man who, like me, ensure that young people were given the Michael Nunn (M1951-56) found some of the more aggressive best information, advice and guidance Robert Stokes was my German teacher manners of that age not to his liking. as possible with personal and career during the early 1950s. He was an Thoughtful, careful and always aware of development. This is an important excellent teacher and very well-liked by his responsibilities to the young. There service that continues at Aldenham to pupils. After I left school he very kindly are many alumni who will have cause to this day. www.isco.org.uk gave me coaching by letter which was thank Robert for his advice, and now much appreciated and I am sad to hear find themselves in a career to which David Hayes (SHO1963-68) of his passing. Robert directed them; never insisting I remember Robert very well from the but with quiet influence and persuasion. time when he was McGill’s Housemaster. Richard Hollis (P1948-52) He was a very kind man and incredibly I’d be grateful if you’d give my sympathy John Strouts (M1953-56) popular. I am sure he will be missed to his family. The debt I owe Mr Stokes I I was not one of Robert’s brightest pupils dreadfully by a great number of people. only now realise. With best wishes. but he did manage to get me through ‘O’ Levels so he must have been a good Terry Ford (CR1979-Present) David Glaser (SHE1970-75) teacher. He also taught me boxing. I knew him well and admired him I was fortunate enough to be taught enormously. It is very sad news indeed. French by Mr Stokes and in the very first Pascale Fowell (Daughter of Cyril Tyson) class to use his very precious Language I too would be grateful if you could pass Neil Sutherland OBE (B1966-70) Laboratory in around 1971/72. on my condolences to Robert’s family. President, OA Society I have used the language throughout I know that he and his wife were Please pass on our sympathies to the my life and for nearly 20 years have most kind to our mother when she Stokes family, Robert was a great been a director of a 3 Michelin Star arrived from France in 1952. Housemaster and an inspirational restaurant where French is the language Modern Languages teacher. He left a of the kitchen and the board room. I Tom Kendall (M1948-52) very positive and lasting impression on literally could not have done it without At Robert’s invitation, I used to visit the his pupils; his expectations were always Mr Stokes’ special patience and teaching School to give a talk about careers in very high - my French is still firmly skills. In this particular student he left a accountancy. One such visit was in 1971 rooted in his classroom. remarkable legacy and I have often just days before my wife Sue and I were Obituaries and tributes 55
married when I introduced Sue to Roger Marsh (SHO1956-61) and good times together. He was Robert and his wife. They were always so Robert Stokes was a great and inspiring particularly keen on the House plays, hospitable and caring. teacher; I’ve always been grateful to him and he was very pleased when we won for my proficiency with the German the senior cup with “Pygmalion” with an Chris Searle (SHO1964-69) language throughout my life and my exceptionally talented cast. Robert also I remember his attempts to teach me enjoyment of its literature. taught me French, but decided that, French with great patience and a little after a valiant attempt, trying to teach success. Now living in France part of the Sir Martin Sweeting OBE FRS (B1964-70) me German in the Sixth form was a step time, I wish I tried harder. I recall Robert when he was too far. Mike Hetherington (CR1959-94) His long service to Aldenham, like Housemaster of McGill’s, just across was McGill’s House Tutor at the time Jack Waddell’s (CR1954-86), is a from me in Beevor’s and he also and his main focus was on the sports dedication very rare these days. attempted to teach me French. activities. Robert and Mike were an inspirational team and it is sad to think Josephine & Arthur Hearnden (CR1959-67) Glen McAllister (Staff1982-95), wife of that they have both now left us. He was my Head of Department for the John McAllister CR1967-2003) eight years I was on the Aldenham staff. I am unable to attend the funeral but Tony Laurenson (M1971-75) His knowledge and enthusiasm for please pass on my sympathy to the family. Please pass on my condolences to French and German put me to shame. Robert’s family. He was an excellent He and Hazel presided over a civilised David Brewerton (M1957-62) Housemaster to me during my time in House and it was always a pleasure to As McGill’s House Captain Sept 1961 – McGill’s and I have always remembered spend time with them in their elegant July 1962, I came to know him very well, him with fondness. drawing room. and we had many excellent discussions
Derek Sprague Oram Warren Hervey Gamble (B1952-55) sent the following tribute to Derek Sprague Oram (B1946-51):
large congregation of family and Brookmans Park and a year later a son, energy on behalf of the club for the next friends gathered at Christ Nigel, was born. Two years later a 23 years. He was made President in 2011. AChurch, Little Heath near Potters daughter Helen, arrived. Derek was a great family man and he Bar for the memorial service for Derek. A career in insurance and and Mary enjoyed yearly trips to Wales Born in Potters Bar, Derek attended reinsurance ensued that was to last for and Cornwall with their son and daughter Potters Bar High School, Aylesford House 40 years, starting with Hogg Robinson, and later on, villas in France and Portugal in St Albans and finally Aldenham and it then Stenhouse where he was a Director with grandchildren, Emma and James. was there that his love of sport came to of the Reinsurance Division followed by In August last year it became clear the fore. He played hockey, cricket and five years at Allied Insurance Brokers. that the stress of coping with Mary’s fives to a high standard. His work took him worldwide to illness and then the tragic loss of Helen, After National service, he ended up numerous countries including China. his daughter, in 2012 exhausted him and being sent to Oswestry, Shropshire Upon retirement his children bought he seemed to have no more fight left. where he was commissioned in the him a computer. He was horrified at first Fortunately he was able to stay at home Royal Artillery and later served as a but found it very useful for dealing with during his illness thanks to the devotion Captain in the Royal Artillery TA the administration involved in his and care of the remarkable ladies who regiment until 1962. various clubs. nursed him with great care. Derek In 1951 he met Mary Morgan in Sport was a very important part of requested that any celebrations should Oswestry; she was training to be a his life. Potters Bar Hockey Club made not interfere with Truants or OA fixtures physiotherapist at the Sir Robert Jones him a life member. At North Mymms and that only Society ties be worn. A and Dame Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Cricket Club he was a Player, Captain, good supporter of the OAGS has Hospital. They married in April 1957 in Committee Member, Chairman and departed and we shall miss him. Among Christ Church, Little Heath. In those latterly Vice President. After cricket the numerous OAs present were Jim days there was only a brief gap between came golf with a brief spell at Toogood (SHE1946-51), Derek’s Best the end of the hockey season and the Brookmans Park and then in 1974, he Man and John Edwards (B1946-51), a start of the cricket season which just joined Hadley Wood Golf Club, spending companion in the same House. allowed time for a honeymoon without time on the Committee in 1987, missing any games. They set up home in becoming Captain in 1990 and using his 56 Obituaries and tributes
In April 1970, he was put in charge of Christopher Rolleston Riding the Kai Tak airport extension in Hong Kong and whilst there joined local Martin Vismund Riding (P1966-68) sent the following tribute stamp clubs. In April 1973 he finished to his father: his airport project and returned to the UK. Cornwall and a year later their first son, The following year, Chris started a Martin, was born in Hull. new job on the island of St. Helena in During this time Chris read the book the South Atlantic Ocean, in charge of ‘Pattern of Islands’ by Arthur Grimble the PWD and remained there until early which inspired him to apply for posts 1976 also adding St. Helena to his overseas. He was offered positions in collections of stamp interests. In 1977 he Kenya and Malaya (now Malaysia) and accepted a post with the Abu Dhabi accepted the latter. He started in the Government which put him in charge of Malayan Public Works Department the construction of the new airport (PWD) in Taiping, Perak in 1953. staying until 1982 when the new His second son, Arthur, was born in airport opened. Batu Gajah, Malaya in 1955 just two When he officially retired to England days before Chris transferred to a new in 1982, he continued with his philatelic position in Ipoh, the state capital interests developing a special expertise orn on 2nd May 1927 in Rugby, of Perak. in Postal History and wrote what is often Christopher Rolleston Riding During the period 1953-64, Chris was regarded as the definitive book on ‘B(M1941-45), was the son of transferred every couple of years to Cornish Postal History. He pursued new George Albert Riding (Headmaster manage different State PWDs in his interests in archaeology and geology and Aldenham School 1933-49), then a capacity as a Civil Engineer, later State spent many happy days travelling round teacher at Rugby School, and Aideen Engineer. His days in Malaya were very archaeological sites in Britain, Ireland Maud Rolleston Riding, daughter of the memorable and he often wished he and Malta. well-known Irish poet and writer, could have stayed on until full After Kairo passed away in 1990 Chris T.W. Rolleston. retirement. He saw his days in Malaya as moved from London to Cornwall, first to Chris, as he preferred to be known, the most enjoyable of his life and both Portmellon to his beloved ‘Colona’ where was called up to the Army two days he and his family had many marvellous his parents had lived following the after WW2 finished and served mainly memories from that time. Second World War; then to Gorran in Gibraltar where he started to develop In 1964 he had to retire from Haven where he spent ten years near his a passion for adventure and travel. He Malaysia, as it had become after dear friend, Jo, who was so important in went up to Peterhouse College, independence, and he started work in his later life. Cambridge where he earned a BA in Mauritius in June 1967, shortly before He passed away on 28th July 2014 Mechanical Science in 1950. independence, staying there until aged 87 after a short illness and always Upon graduation his first post was August 1969. During this time, he said he had a good, full and varied life. with the Inland Waterways Executive in developed what was to become his He leaves two sons, Martin and Arthur, Hull. At that time, while on holiday, he life-long interest in philately even and their wives, also five grandchildren met Kairo Spelge, who had escaped from spreading to the rest of his family. He who live in USA and another who lives Latvia after the war. They were married also had a keen interest in astronomy in Brussels. He will be sadly missed by on the 11th June 1951 in Mevagissey, which lasted until his retirement. his family and friends.’ John Parker (SHO1940-43) nterested in the natural world from his early days at Ripley Court Prep ISchool, John Parker had wanted to be a surgeon but instead had a very successful career as Managing Director with ICL (Computers). He retired at 57 and enjoyed a wonderful retirement in West Sussex with his late wife, their two daughters and families living locally. John passed away on 12 May 2014 at Petworth Nursing Home. Obituaries and tributes 57
Dr John Guignard
From Jackson, Mississippi, USA, Tony Mawson (M1957-62) emailed the following tribute to Dr John Guignard (SHE1944-49)
write with sadness to report the German bombs, one of which fell death of Dr. John Guignard in New directly on their house. They were saved, ‘IOrleans, Louisiana, on August 30, John told me, by his mother’s 2013. He was 82 years old. Soon after premonition of danger, and they losing his wife, Roberta, in late June temporarily left the house not long 2013, John developed kidney problems before a bomb fell and destroyed it. and was moved to a nursing home. John was a boarder at Belmont House There he fell and broke his hip, and died and then at Aldenham (where both of us following complications of the injury. were taught biology and physics by Mr. John and I had been good friends and Pollard (CR1936-70) and Mr. Griggs Roberta and John Guignard scientific colleagues since 1990, having (CR1944-71), respectively). John went to met at the New Orleans chapter of the Edinburgh University and studied World Future Society. We were both medicine. Deciding that clinical work Portuguese Air Force. In 2002 he received interested in invention and wrote a was not his forte, he began a career in a liver transplant that kept him in good number of papers together on medical research focusing on human health for many years until his epidemiological subjects, including factors, working at Southampton medicines led to diabetes. lethal violence in schools and the University before departing for the U.S., I will miss John and his gregarious prevention of deaths in hot cars. where he worked for the U.S. Navy, first wife Roberta. He was a great story teller His wife was an expert in Cajun in Dayton, Ohio, then in New Orleans and accounts of his early life in London cooking and made the best gumbo with the Naval Biodynamics Research and World War II in particular held us imaginable. We spent many happy Laboratory. He became an spellbound. I was honoured and glad to Easter and Christmas holidays together internationally known expert on the be bequeathed his medical books. I was with our families. John and Roberta physiological effects of vibration and sorry to learn recently that the stamped stayed with us for several weeks after was a founding member of the Human letter John had written, addressed to the the destruction of much of New Orleans Factors and Ergonomics Society. He School, found at his bedside and duly caused by Hurricane Katrina. published widely on the problem of mailed after his death – presumed to As a boy and an only child, John and seasickness and related health issues. have contained his obituary – never his parents lived in London, his father Starting in 1985, John became a arrived. I was asked therefore to write having come from a long line of Swiss consultant in human factors research this brief obituary but hope that other watchmakers. In the early ‘40s the and had many national and OAs of his era will offer their family narrowly escaped death from international clients, including the recollections about him as well.’ Lt. Norman Goodfellow DSC RNVR
n 1940 when Norman was awaiting Norman Goodfellow (SHE1935-39) (RN base, Belfast); 12.05.1942- 02.1943 a train at Inverkeithing station, an joined the Royal Navy at 19 and, to his Pilot, 804 Squadron FAA [HMS Heron] Ielderly lady approached him and great satisfaction, completed training (RN Air Station, Yeovilton, later HMS enquired when the next train for to become a pilot in the Royal Navy. He Dasher (escort carrier); 07.09.1944- Edinburgh was due, and he replied that served on HMS Ariguani; HMS Dasher 07.1945 Pilot, 880 Squadron FAA. he thought there would be one in ten (D37) a British Royal Navy aircraft Following air attacks over Japan minutes time. Whereupon she fixed him carrier which sank on 27 March 1943; during the summer of 1945, Norman with a steely stare and said: “Young then on HMS Implacable (R86) which Goodfellow was awarded the DSC man, it is your business to know these was awarded Battle Honours in 1945. for gallantry at sea in the presence things”. Norman was too young and His naval history is as follows: of the enemy. flabbergasted to think of suggesting, 21.11.1940-02.1941 Pilot, 804 Squadron After the war Norman became a courteously of course, that she should FAA [HMS Sparrowhawk] (RN Air Station solicitor. He died on 28 July 2013 and consider it her business to be able to Hatston, Orkney); 14.04.1941-11.05.1942 leaves a widow, Stephanie. recognise a British Naval officer’s uniform. Pilot, 804 Squadron FAA [HMS Caroline] 58 Obituaries and tributes
Dr Christopher Ernest Upton MBE
Long-serving Poole based GP Christopher Upton died at Poole Hospital, where he worked for many years, following a stroke on 31 January 2014, aged 83.
Christopher Ernest Upton (M1944-48) retiring in 1991. The practice is now was born in Charlton, London on 5 May known as the “Adam Practice”. 1930, and after leaving Aldenham he The care of his patients to whom he was conscripted into the Army for was enormously dedicated was at the several months, serving overseas centre of everything he did. He worked in Egypt. in the Diabetic clinic at Poole Hospital He studied medicine at King’s College with Dr Ron Hill for many years and Hospital, qualifying in 1955, and two continued to support the local branch of years later married Wendy, a staff nurse. Diabetes UK long after his retirement. They spent a year in Camberley before For this work an MBE was conferred on moving to Poole, where Dr Upton took him by The Princess Royal in 2011 which up a GP partnership with Dr Wilson he received at Windsor Castle on a Despite good health through the Adam in 1959. Their sons Paul and memorable family day (see OA Review majority of his retirement he recently Andrew were born in 1961 and 1963. issue 40). suffered a series of strokes. His family His career continued to develop as he Outside work, Chris Upton pursued praised the efforts of the Poole Stroke became a GP trainer and then an many interests including hockey, sailing, Team, who cared for him and a funeral examiner for the Royal College of skiing, gardening, art, music and travel. service was held at the Church of the General Practitioners, and subsequently He did many gardening courses at Holy Angels in Lilliput on 17 February. he was awarded a Fellowship of Kingston Maurward College which led to He felt privileged to spend time with the College. being involved in helping the Royal his five grandchildren, Charles, Sophie, He served as the Senior Partner of the Marines with their memorial garden on James, Jennifer and Matthew to whom practice for a number of years before Emmet’s Down on the Purbecks. he was known as ‘Papa’. Ian Maxwell Scoggins (SHE1950-54)
Ian’s widow, Anne, composed the following short piece on Ian’s life which in turn was sent to the OA office by John Hodge (B1952-55) who recounts...
attending Aldenham School, Ian joined events over the years. He was a member the RAF winning a scholarship to read of the RAF Oxford and Cambridge Electrical Engineering at St Catharine’s Society, and of the Institute of Electrical College, Cambridge. He served in the Engineers; he was also a past-President RAF for 20 years, having two long of the Minerva Society, which is for RAF overseas tours in Aden and in Singapore. engineers. His other particular interest He retired from the RAF in 1974 and was Georgian furniture and silver, and joined Systems Designers, a computer he had been a keen ornithologist since software company with 65 employees, the age of 11. as Marketing Manager; when he retired Digital photography occupied much in 1995, the company (by then renamed of his time in recent years, particularly Scicon) had grown to 6,500 staff. during the times he spent with Anne in t was very much a surprise when I He had many passions and interests, her native New Zealand, which he loved. moved into an apartment in including quality cars; these included a There they were directly involved in, and ‘IChichester to find an OA in charge 1962 Alvis TD, a 1984 Rolls Royce affected by, the 2011 earthquake in of management. Ian became a great Corniche, a 1996 Bentley Continental, Christchurch. friend over the three years that I knew and of course the beloved 1937 Rolls Ian Scoggins died peacefully, after a him. “Go easy on the tonic” was his Royce 25/30 Hooper Sports Saloon long and trying illness, on 3 November instruction when asking for a G&T’. registration number DUL 597 that he 2012. He is survived by his wife Anne, Born in London in 1936 and after and Anne brought to many 20 G-C four children and eight grandchildren. Obituaries and tributes 59
Joseph Alan Mence Extract from a tribute to Joseph Alan Mence (SHO1935-38) given by his surviving son Myles at St James’ Church, Yarmouth on 23rd May 2014
oe was born on 21st April 1921 in Two months later on HMS Argus he He took early retirement in 1979 and London. He was educated at completed several successful deck they moved to the Isle of Wight full time ‘JAldenham where he was good at landings but was bitterly disappointed where he continued to practise as a sport, playing hockey, rugby, squash and not to be posted to an operational Chartered Accountant and sit as a JP. football but cricket was his favourite squadron and instead to the Fleet Joe was fond of sport and good at it. and which he excelled in. Leaving school Cooperation Squadron based in the He first played for the MCC in 1939, in 1938 he became articled as a Orkneys. The Admiralty had taken a becoming a member in 1945. He was a Chartered Accountant. dim view of his wrecking one of their right handed batsman and right arm In 1941 he joined the Navy and aircraft. He flew Mosquitos, Hurricanes, slow bowler and bowled effective leg volunteered to fly in the Fleet Air Arm. In Blenheims, Corsairs, Defiants and breaks. He played for Berkshire from 1949 1943, based in Scotland and still under Swordfish. and captained the county for two training, he had to undertake his first He was demobilised in 1946 and seasons: in 1953 when they won the deck landing on the auxiliary carrier gained his accountancy qualifications in Minor Counties Championship, and in HMS Activity. A preliminary to this were 1947. In 1948 he began a thirty one year 1954. Both he and his son Michael played many shore based landings on short involvement with the Iliffe family and for Berkshire in the 1961 season and Joe runways. These he accomplished without the Yattendon Estate in Berkshire, was delighted when he took the catch incident but no instruction was given on becoming Managing Director of the that was Michael’s first Minor Counties how to allow for the moving flight deck of 10,000 acre estate with much of his wicket. Michael was seventeen at the a ship at sea. energy devoted to bringing it to time and went on to play first class For his first deck landing he was flying profitability. Early on he saw the potential cricket for Warwickshire. a Fairy Fulmar and took off from in growing Christmas trees commercially Joe was proud of his 2 sons, 4 Machrihanish to rendezvous with the and his efforts resulted in the Yattendon grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. ship. However as he made his approach Estate becoming by the end of the 1960s He gained great enjoyment from playing an oil pipe broke away from the engine the largest private grower of Christmas the piano, especially Beethoven sonatas. and covered his windscreen in oil. Now trees in the country, second only to the On occasional visits to Aldenham in unable to see ahead properly and with Forestry Commission. He sat on the recent years he was delighted to see the little instruction he misjudged his height Wantage District Council becoming continued growth and development of and hit the ship between two gun turrets Chairman in 1965 he was also a JP. his Alma Mater. below the flight deck. The Fulmar’s In 1956 he learned to sail. Beginning A common theme of the many engine was torn off and fell into the sea with an Enterprise dinghy, he later raced tributes received by his family on his narrowly missing his head and taking the Merlin Rockets before buying a 29ft death on 12th May is that Joe was a aircraft’s tail with it. Astonishingly apart Harrison Butler keelboat followed by a gentleman. This he would have denied from concussion he was not badly new Nicholson 32. Joe and his wife but would have considered the notion injured. The remains of the aircraft were regularly sailed to Yarmouth from something worthwhile to which he pushed into the sea. Hamble where their yacht was based. could aspire.’ Sir David Bower Mitchell ‘Sir David Mitchell (P1942-45), who died on 30 August aged 86, combined a ministerial career under Margaret Thatcher with a role in the family wine business.’
urther extracts from The Daily minister for small businesses in her first favoured a rail-only tunnel; held Telegraph, 1 September 2014, …‘he government. consultations in Kent about the project Fwas the first chairman of the David Mitchell was heavily involved and its impact – rejecting calls for a Conservatives’ backbench committee, as planning for the Channel Tunnel public enquiry because delay would Mrs Thatcher’s choice in opposition to resumed a decade after Labour’s make it harder for the promoters to head her Smaller Business Bureau, and last-minute cancellation. He personally raise funds; and extended the period for 60 Obituaries and tributes
objections to forestall a Tory revolt. Anthony Barber, for emergency help to Michael Heseltine resigned over When the Bill passed the Commons in keep small firms afloat. After Heath’s Westland in 1986, David Mitchell was 1987, he said the Tunnel had had “the defeat, he chaired the new backbench promoted to Minister of State, keeping longest pregnancy in the world.” small business committee; Michael the rail portfolio – to the delight of BR. Born on 20 June 1928, the son of a Heseltine, Shadow Industry Secretary, Soon afterwards he announced naval architect and older brother of made him his contact with the sector. a cut in subsidy as Reid improved the Christopher Robert Mitchell (P1944-45), In 1976 Mrs Thatcher appointed railway’s finances. David Mitchell went from Aldenham David Mitchell to head her Small David Mitchell’s ministerial career School to work on a farm, joining El Vino Business Bureau. Created to keep the ended in July 1988, Mrs Thatcher in 1950. In 1956 he was elected to St leader in touch with the views of small compensating him with a knighthood. Pancras council and entered the firms and link them directly to her He became a force for stability on the Commons in 1964 in Basingstoke. A year policy teams, it kept him out in the back benches, applauding the early later, Sir Edward Heath made him an country three or four evenings a week. stages, at least, of rail privatisation. opposition whip, a post he held for two His turn of phrase was vivid and his In 1992 the more hardline John years before resigning. enthusiasm infectious. Townend defeated him for the Chair When Heath led the Conservatives to In January 1981 Mrs Thatcher moved of the Conservative backbench power in 1970, David Mitchell became David Mitchell to the Northern Ireland Finance Committee. PPS to Sir Keith Joseph, Social Services Office. He was thrown in at the deep He opposed a referendum on the Secretary. In 1973 he and his wife spent end: Bobby Sands and fellow Maastricht treaty, urged colleagues not a week on a pensioner’s budget after Republicans in the Maze prison were to rule out eventual adoption of the constituents complained they could not starting their hunger strikes for political euro, and was an observer at South live on it. He pronounced the food status, and he insisted: “We won’t give in Africa’s first multiracial elections. “adequate”, and himself “perfectly to his demands and blackmail.” Trying to David Mitchell was a Liveryman of healthy at the end of the week”. But he help Sands off the hook, David Mitchell the Vintners’ Company, and its Master admitted: “ The food was so allowed him visits by politicians from in 1993. He was appointed Deputy uninteresting – we had shepherd’s pie in the South. Lieutenant for Hampshire in 1994. He several different forms.” For the 1983 election David Mitchell married Pamela Howard in 1954, with When the three-day week bit just moved to North-West Hampshire. Mrs whom he had two sons, one being Andrew before the February 1974 election, David Thatcher transferred him to Transport, Mitchell MP, and a daughter. They Mitchell pressed the Chancellor, initially responsible for aviation. When separated in 1990, and she died in 2005.‘ Remembering Nigel Blackburn
This tribute was sent by Frances, wife of Nigel William Blackburn (B1960-65)
in 1968, he decided to return to In 1994, it was time to move to the Argentina where he had grown up to capital, Santiago, and new challenges. take a marketing job with Johnson & Nigel left the classroom, something Johnson. However, after four years, this he always missed, and took an was not for him so he bought a rucksack administrative post with the Association and headed north, destination unknown. of British Schools in Chile. He worked He never got further than Peru, there running the office until his death where he met his future wife, Frances, in June 2013. and was offered a job as year tutor at In his personal time, Nigel worked Markham College in 1974. Finally, he with young people with physical had found a job which inspired him. disabilities and low self esteem. After four years he was named Head of He may have left the classroom but Upper House and stayed with Markham the young were always important to until 1988. him. He was also an accomplished A job offer that same year at a school artist, mainly pastels, and an in Vina del Mar, Chile meant a move enthusiastic weekend cyclist. south again, now with his wife and son, He is survived, and missed, by his fter leaving Aldenham in 1965, Paul, in tow. Between 1989 and 1994 wife, Frances, in Santiago, Chile and son, Nigel went to Bristol University Nigel went from Deputy Head to Paul, in San Jose, California. A(Zoology with Botany, B.Sc.) then Headmaster of the school. Obituaries and tributes 61
Michael Ridpath Michael Gerrans Ridpath (SHE1940-44) was one of Australia’s leading wildlife ecologists. In 1971 he became the founding officer-in-charge of the CSIRO Wildlife Research Laboratory in Darwin, a post which he held for fourteen years.
of birds in the wooded dell behind his Michael, second from the right, at Kapagala Research Station, Northern Territory, in 1984. house. At 18 he served in the British Army in India, a country which he grew to love and which he visited many times later in life. He studied zoology at the University of London, and married Paule, a French woman, in 1954. Together they moved to Australia in 1959, where he combined his knowledge of ecology and ornithology to study the flightless Tasmanian native-hen in Tasmania, where they lived in an old wooden cottage hidden away in the tall trees on the slopes of Mount Wellington. His study of the Tasmanian native-hen, and later of the wedge-tailed eagle in Western Australia, demonstrated that the damage to crops and stock of which both birds had been accused was greatly exaggerated. The University of London awarded him a PhD for his thesis on the native-hen. When he retired from Darwin in 1986, his long-time colleague and right-hand man, Peter Pangquee, arranged a corroboree in his traditional land to say farewell. Ridpath regarded ere he made a major there must be a few old people who that as one of the greatest honours he contribution to the knew how fire had been used over the had ever received. Another was the Hunderstanding of tropical centuries. It turned out that there were award of Order of Australia Medal in Australia’s ecology. He set up the hundreds. He employed many Aboriginal 1987 for his services to CSIRO in Darwin. Kapagala Research Station, now part of people as technicians and argued for the He and Paule moved to Darlington in the Kakadu National Park, where he acceptance of informal bush qualifications Western Australia, where he edited performed the first landscape-scale by the federal public service. Monsoonal Australia with Chris Haynes ecological experiment in Australia, on A great enthusiast for the ecology of and Martin Williams, still the leading the effects of feral water buffalo on the north-west Australia, he accused those source of information on the ecology of environment. Since then, the Kapagala who did not share his vision of being north-western Australia. As well as Research Station became world renowned, “tempo” as distinct from the more feeding the local birds, they travelled and scores of research scientists have enlightened “troppo”. His unusual style extensively. Michael was devoted to worked there over the years. of driving four-wheeled-drive vehicles Paule, and cared for her throughout her Michael Ridpath, nephew, and son of was famous. Sometimes, when deep in illness with Parkinson’s Disease until Andrew Frederick Ridpath (SHE1943-47), conversation, the car would move slower her death in 2012. wrote the following tribute to his uncle: and slower, until when inspired by an Michael Ridpath died at the age of 88 ‘Michael was an early champion of local idea he would pump the accelerator and on 26 August 2014 in Ellenbrook, WA.’ Aboriginal people at a time when this the vehicle would shoot forward, to the was difficult and unfashionable. He alarm of the passengers. appreciated their understanding of the Michael Ridpath was born in local ecology, and of their use of fire in Hertfordshire in England in 1926. As a managing forests. He had a hunch that boy he was fascinated by all the species 62 Obituaries and tributes
Major Brian Martin Parsons OAM
Jeremy Parsons sent the following tribute to his father:
the War Office in London, co-ordinating Enterprise and Achievement. In 2004 he a range of international military was further recognised with the award conferences that he attended in Paris, of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM), Malaysia, Australia and Kenya. Posted the equivalent of the MBE, for service to with the regiment’s 3rd Battalion to the community through the Vision Aden (now Yemen) in 1966 he saw active Australia Foundation. service in the South Arabian conflict and In early 2014, he underwent a hip was wounded in the arm by a rebel replacement, and complications from sniper. Following his recovery, he this surgery led to his unexpected death resigned his commission in 1967 and the on April 22, at the age of 83. He will family moved out to Australia. There he always be remembered as a husband, became Personnel Manager of BHP, the father, grandfather and great country’s largest iron and steel grandfather, banker, legal advisor, manufacturer, before moving back to chauffeur and source of many family England in 1972 to manage the stories, including those from his happy company’s migrant recruitment scheme. school days at Aldenham. The family then returned to Australia, where he joined the Nylex Corporation as Personnel Manager. After many years with Nylex, during Geoffrey which time he married his second wife Denise, he went on to work with a Ernest Francis number of resource mining companies Rawlins and HR consultancy firms before finally retiring in 2005. The following year he Tom Kendall (M1948-52) and his wife was involved in the recruitment and attended the funeral of Geoff Rawlins Brian Parsons (M1944-1949) was born training of volunteers for the 2006 (P1944-49) on 2 May 2014 at St Luke’s in East Acton in 1931, younger brother of Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. Church, Chelsea. Derek Parsons (M1940-1945). At During the Games period itself, due to School Captain at Aldenham, Geoff Aldenham he cemented a firm love of his military experience, he was a Games then went up to Cambridge and read sport, playing cricket in the First XI and Ambassador in charge of managing the history. Subsequently, he was ordained the Fives First VI in 1948 and 1949. He requirements of the various heads of and was curate for some eight years at was also Drum Major in the CCF and a state and their entourages. He also took All Souls Church, Langham Place W1 at School Praeposter. on roles in the following years as a a time when John Stott was Rector. In On leaving Aldenham, he followed in Census Collector and Census Supervisor, 1966 he went to work in the USA. his father’s footsteps and joined the along with work for various community Army, being commissioned into the groups, never truly “retiring”. Essex Regiment, and saw service in Throughout and beyond his working Hong Kong and Germany. While in Hong life, he was an active sportsman, playing Jan Kong he was a member of the winning cricket until his mid-fifties, and hockey 4x400 relay team, and in Germany won with the Melbourne Cricket Club to his Chamberlain the British Army of the Rhine Shooting early sixties. He also worked tirelessly (CR1982-2000) Trophy. In 1958, he married Diana for the community, in particular for the Griffith, whose parents ran the Prep Royal Victorian institute for the Blind s we go to print, we learn that School he had attended in Northaw, and (now Vision Australia), as a board Jan Chamberlain passed away they had two children, Sarah and member and the convenor of their Aon Sunday 12th October 2014. myself. In 1963 he was selected to annual fundraising fair. He also One of the first female members of the attend the Australian Army Staff College appeared regularly on their radio Common Room, Jan was responsible for in Queenscliff, Victoria, and the family station, reading out articles from the girls PE and also worked in the Prep moved to Australia for two years. daily newspapers for those people with School for a while. A more detailed From 1965, with the Essex Regiment vision impairment. His efforts with account of her life will appear in next now merged to form the Royal Anglian Vision Australia were recognised with year’s OA Review. Regiment, he was back in England, at his winning of the Tattersall’s Award for Obituaries and tributes 63
Robin Patrick George Ashby David Pinder Brice (B1948-52) sent the following tribute to his School friend, Robin Patrick George Ashby (B1948-51).
obin and I comprised half of with Patrick Heron (B1947-52), and then and Amersham International. He was a the Beevor’s House small to Barnard Castle. After that our ways keen traveller and covered much of the ‘Rintake for the Summer term of parted but we continued to meet as our globe. In 2004, Robin was diagnosed with 1948. Undergoing the strict and families expanded. Robin married Janine a muscle degenerative disease and his comprehensive daily routine of the Fred in 1958 and they had two children, Mark mobility was greatly impaired leaving English (CR1915-51) regime, we found and Carolyn, and there are now six him wheelchair bound. He remained that proved to be of lasting benefit in grandchildren. Robin remarried in 2003, cheerful as always and an inspiration shaping our approach to life thereafter. to Rita. to others. He took great delight in his We remained friends after leaving and Robin worked in administration for a family and grandchildren and will be both joined the Royal Artillery for succession of firms supplying computer sorely missed.’ National service at Oswestry together equipment – Memorex, Dawson Rossiter Tribute to Michael Webster, Chairman of Governors 1977-84 Further to the obituary in last year’s OA Review p.55, Peter Boorman, (Headmaster 1974-83) emailed the following, ‘I have just read with sadness of Michael Webster’s death, and cannot let it pass without a comment or two from me.
first met Michael withDa vid Male Aldenham, 3 day week, inflation over was our Visitor one Visitation Day. On (P1942-47), Former Governor at 20%, Houghton award to Teachers of the Monday following, I received a letter ‘Ithe final interviews in March 1974 331/3% backdated 8 months, strikes thanking me, yes, thanking me and my for the Headship which became vacant galore, Michael would always give me wife, for such an enjoyable day. He wrote in September 1974. his undivided time. I rang him one day his impressions of the School and When he telephoned me after the with a potentially very serious problem. everyone he met. I have kept that letter final interview I remember very clearly Not only did he give me his immediate in his book, The Discipline of Law, and the words he used. “Peter, we would very opinion but he travelled to Aldenham to learnt from it. much like you to join us at Aldenham.” discuss it in detail. So too Michael; he and Meg always These are words which I have copied As Headmaster I could not have wrote at length whenever he had visited many times later whenever making a wished for a better man at the top; and been entertained. Even when he senior appointment because they give so communication between Head and attended Staff/Governors meetings in clearly emphasis on teamwork, a Chair is absolutely crucial. I like to think Headmaster’s House, he would later horizontal structure, not hierarchical. we became good friends; I remained in write and spend time giving his thoughts. Michael was above all a people touch with him until well after my Michael’s contribution to Aldenham person. His work at Watney Mann is well leaving Aldenham in 1983. in those difficult days was truly documented and shows his loyalty to He had an extraordinary ability to see invaluable. Without his care and the team at Watneys; he resisted the a problem, to sympathise, to act and be guidance the School may well have been take-over by Grand Met and very soon decisive. Another of his more perceptive damaged beyond repair. The fact that it after that event he resigned. He retained comments came when I had my back to survived those perilous days is in no his position on the Board at Aldenham the wall, exhausted after so much small part due to Michael’s wisdom. He and remained an honorary member of hassle from the economy of the day and was a Christian through and through, the Brewers Livery Company. He later other tiresome situations, “Peter, when with deeply held views. His was not lip became Chairman of a company in there is a problem, decisions have to be service but the Truth. I feel deeply Smithfield where he soon found himself taken, after which the air is clearer.” honoured to have worked with him. fighting off another hostile take-over. He How right he was! I do hope the School will be able to was in the Headlines of all the business I have always said that people of real create some lasting memorial to this journals. But at that time of real quality always seem to have time. Prime truly remarkable man who gave of problems for him, for Business and for example of this was Lord Denning who himself so generously.’ 64 Obituaries and tributes
Kenneth Eric Flatt (M1933-36)
At the funeral of Kenneth Eric Flatt (M1933-36) attended by Ann Saffery, Development & OA Manager and James James-Crook (M1968-72) OA Committee Member, Sally Watts, good friend and neighbour of Ken, gave the following tribute:
e are all gathered here than a Sunday drive out for afternoon tea. going to join him but he just laughed. today to say our farewells Starting as a young man with his This was his daily exercise. ‘Wto a gentleman and a local father, Ken went on to become a very Ken was also a member of character of Lodgebury Close. keen sailor, a passion which he Southbourne club and was a regular on Ken was born in Sutton, Surrey on continued for the rest of his life. Sunday lunchtimes with his close friend 6th November 1919 and lived very In 1966 Ken was a founding member of Alan. He was also a member of the happily in Cheam with his parents Edith Emsworth Cruising Association and sailed Southbourne wine circle, meeting at the and Leslie and younger sister Daphne. his yacht right up into his eighties before village hall once a month with his friend He was educated at Aldenham School. changing to a cabin cruiser called Topsy. David who also lived in the Close. At the outbreak of World War 2, On retirement Ken moved to Ken thoroughly enjoyed the following officer cadet training, Ken Lodgebury Close in Southbourne, living Lodgebury Close parties that we have served with the 12th Regiment Royal next door to John, another keen sailor had over the years, including the BBQ Artillery in North West Europe rising to whom he liked to have long conversations for the Queen’s Golden Jubilee although, the rank of Captain. He was involved in with over the garden hedge. admitting not liking BBQ food, he the D-Day landings and, like many of his Ken enjoyed many cruises with Saga, enjoyed the wine and company. comrades, did not speak about it, though often up to 3 a year, his particular About two and a half years ago Ken Ken did attend the anniversary services favourite was the Norwegian fjords also was found in his garden after a fall, in Normandy. travelling to the Arctic Circle and seeing being kept company by a neighbour’s After the war Ken returned to civilian the spectacular Northern Lights. He cat. Sadly, a second fall resulted in Ken life and joined Johnson Mathey & Co., never felt lonely and soon made friends. being admitted to hospital and then to Melters and Assayers in Hatton Garden Ken was well known in the Close for Prinsted Care Home. Ken was very where he remained until his retirement. his various forms of transport, from adaptable to any change in his life, a As a young man Ken was very keen bicycles to camper vans. He would go quality of his I really admired, always on sport and was a member of Cheam away in his van but would return early thanking me after visiting him. hockey club also the local tennis club, to avoid the traffic; he also had a small Ken was very popular with the staff where he met his lifelong friend Reg bright yellow car so that he could easily and despite being in constant pain tried Richardson. Ken drove around in a green find it in Tesco’s car park! to remain positive. Always one to do Triumph sports car and founded the At around 4.30 each morning Ken things his way, Ken slipped away Sallyforth club, a group of motoring would cycle up to the Saab garage at suddenly but peacefully. A gentleman enthusiasts who liked nothing better Chidham and back. I always said I was to the end.’ Jeremy Goodwin
James Daniel Goodwin (K1980-85) emailed the following tribute to his father, Jeremy Goodwin (B1947-50) who died in April 2013 at 81 years old.
eremy leaves behind two until retirement ten years ago. The firm daughters, Philippa and Nicola, was renowned for manufacturing high ‘Jand a son. At Aldenham, he was quality furniture from its workshops in an avid sportsman, later representing Ipswich. Under Jeremy’s direction, the his home county Suffolk at tennis firm managed its own woodlands, and squash. developed a saw mill and owned But it was in business that Jeremy showrooms in London while establishing excelled joining his father in the family a brand name through advertising. furniture making business, Titchmarsh The Goodwin family would like to & Goodwin, in the mid 1950s after thank everyone who knew my father at National Service and a short time in Aldenham and for their good wishes.’ banking. He employed over 80 staff OA ANNUAL DINNER 2014
Friday 21st November at Aldenham School
6.15pm Drinks Reception in The Apthorp Room of The Wells Centre
6.30pm Pre-Dinner Speech by The Revd Canon Joe Hawes (SHO1978-83)
7.30pm Dinner in the Dining Hall
Principal Guest and Speaker The Headmaster, James Fowler MA
Tickets: £39 per person or £27.50 for those aged 25 and under on the day of the Dinner
(Ticket price includes a 4 course dinner, half bottle of wine & coffee)
Wives, husbands and partners are also invited
For booking details see p.32
Due to the outbreak of the Great War the OA Dinner, scheduled for November 1914, was cancelled and this year’s Dinner will be an opportunity to pay tribute to those 163 Aldenhamians who lost their lives during 1914-1918.