For Alumni and Friends

Summer 2009 | Issue 8

University of Reading

Magazinefor Alumni and Friends

The Sixties: how Reading developed during an unforgettable decade Also in this issue: Nicola Larder: Behind the screens Celebrating 100 years of the URE Museum Enterprise at Reading features Welcome from the news Vice-Chancellor 04 08 Two new centres of excellence Welcome to the latest issue of the University of Reading he University has recently established the metabolic health. Professor Jon Gibbins, Director of ‘strategic and Magazine. I do hope you Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and the Institute says: ‘Research within the ICMR will en- enjoy reading about the wide large scale Neurodynamics (CINN). This represents a compass several different approaches from the study range of activities under- investment in strategic and large scale investment, involving of molecules that control the functions of cells and 06 taken at the University and scientists in Psychology, Pharmacy, Biosciences and tissues; to the study of individual cells and tissues in research’ the diverse paths followed T by your fellow alumni. Genetics, Mathematics, Cybernetics, Chemistry and health and disease; to human clinical trials to exam- We are continuing to Clinical Language Sciences. The Harry Pitt building ine the impact of new preventative or therapeutic invest heavily in new teach- has been completely refurbished, and its ground floor approaches on the risk of cardiovascular disease.’ ing and learning facilities now houses the Centre and a semi-independent MRI Professor Jon Gibbins, Director of the Institute for Cardiovascular & Metabolic Research. here at Reading, including Scanning Facility. The Centre is equipped with a com- 04 Celebrating 100 years of the Ure Museum state-of-the-art research plete range of imaging equipment. buildings and equipment, Professor Douglas Saddy, the Director of CINN, said: 06 Graduate Profile – Nicola Larder and improved services for ‘In addition to an exciting collection of people we have students. This year alone we have completed our new an exciting collection of technologies, and one special 08 The spirit of enterprise at the University of Reading £35million centre for the business school, and a new aspect of this collection is that it has been designed to £17million home for our pharmaceutical, biomedical and 10 ‘My Generation’: Reading in the 1960s cardiovascular research and teaching. work together in concert. This means that, for instance, In the league tables, you will find us towards the top it is possible for us to simultaneously record an MRI for research and student satisfaction in this country, and scan and an electroencephalogram, thereby being able in the global listing of the best 200 universities in the to look at blood flow and electrical activity in the brain world placing Reading amongst the top two per cent or so at the same time in the same individual.’ Regulars of universities in the world. Each year, our graduates raise thousands of pounds for New biomedical research The formation of the Institute for Cardiovascular & 01 University News University projects, to support the Reading students of tomorrow in ways that have not previously been possible. Metabolic Research (ICMR) represents an exciting In the past five years we have raised more than £17mil- new era in the development of biomedical research at 14 Development, Alumni & Friends news lion to support University activities and projects which Reading. It will foster scientific interactions between otherwise would simply not have happened. Last year, 15 Where are you now? research groups undertaking basic biological research we distributed £9 million to Reading students, in grants, and those studying the impact of drugs and diet on bursaries and scholarships. A very big thank you to all of biological systems relevant to cardiovascular and 18 Events Round-up you who have made such an enormous difference to the University. You can also find out more in this issue about 20 Events Diary the Government’s Matched Giving Scheme – meaning that for every £3 you donate, we can reclaim an additional £1 at no additional cost to you. Please help us to The ‘University of Reading Magazine’ is © The University of Reading 2009. maximise the full potential of this and together we can Gordon meets Gordon Adding to Beckett published by the Development and Alumni make a real difference to the University. University of Reading Magazine Relations Office of The University of Reading One of the privileges of my job is that I travel widely Gordon, the robot controlled by On the anniversary of Summer 2009, Issue 8. and designed by Lift Creative Communica- on behalf of the University and it was wonderful to meet a biological brain developed by a the death of legendary tion Design, www.studiolift.com Editor so many of you in the USA and Malaysia during this past team at the University of Reading, playwright Samuel Beckett year. I get to meet Reading graduates who have gone all Special thanks go to our designers at Trish O’Neill was on display in the Science (1906–1989), the University Lift (Matt Carey, BA Typography, 1997 and over the world – and changed it – in ways that are simply Museum in London recently. was delighted to announce Editorial Board Jo Lankester, BA Typography, 2005) and to astonishing. The University’s first five international stu- Professor Gordon Marshall, Vice- a valuable addition to its James Barr Ian Burn dents arrived in 1904, from Africa, Central America and Chancellor of the University visited Beckett Collection, the Ian Burn (PG Cert, Typography, 1999) Continental Europe. Today the University hosts several For further information concerning any of his namesake. Gordon the robot world’s largest collection of Caroline Bysh thousand international students and we have offices and the articles in this issue, please contact: became a media star in the summer resources connected to the Matt Carey (BA Typography, 1997) teaching collaborations throughout the world, including The Editor, University of Reading Magazine, when Reading researchers revealed writer of Waiting for Godot. Development & Alumni Relations Office, Carol Derham (BA Education, 1999) the Middle East, South Africa, China, India, Thailand, him to a worldwide audience. This The University pur- Blandford Lodge, Whiteknights, Reading Laura Garman (BA English & American Malaysia, and the Caribbean. cutting edge research is the first chased Reading Professor, RG6 6AH. Literature, 2008) Alumni tell me that the time they spent at Reading Samuel Beckett (© John Hayes). Tel: 0118 378 8006 Fax: 0118 378 6587 Liz Hinde transformed their lives. They, in turn, are transforming step in examining how memories and Beckett’s friend and email: [email protected] Jo Lankester (BA Typography, 2005) the lives of others. For more than 100 years, the talented manifest themselves in the brain, biographer, Jim Knowlson’s extensive collection of web: www.reading.ac.uk/alumni Brenda Morris (BA English, 2007) people who have been educated here have gone on to and how a brain stores specific Beckett materials thanks to generous contributions No part of this magazine may be repro- Sue Rayner (PG Cert, Typography, 1999; achieve great things. The hallmark of the Reading gradu- pieces of data. The key aim is that from the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council/ duced without the prior permission of the HE Cert, Archaeology, 2002) ate is that, whatever they do in life and wherever they eventually this will lead to a better Victoria & Albert (MLA/V&A) Purchase Grant Fund and go, people who have been educated in this University are publisher. Whilst every care has been taken Ruhi Singh understanding of the development the Friends of the National Libraries. to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, bold and make a difference. Andy Wood of diseases and disorders which Professor Sue Walker, Dean of the Faculty of Arts no responsibility can be taken for any errors Thank you for your continued support. Professor Gordon Marshall meets Gordon and / or omissions. The views expressed in Cover Image: Courtesy of University affect the brain. the Robot. and Humanities said: ‘The acquisition of the Beckett this magazine are not necessarily those Special Collections. Can you identify Professor Gordon Marshall Collection is central to the research agenda.’ of the University of Reading, the Editorial these students? Vice-Chancellor Board or the Friends of the University. All rights reserved. University of Reading Magazine • 1 news news Guarding future Honorary degrees Turing Test comes to Arise, Sir John The University awarded Honorary Degrees to lead- The University is delighted to ers in the world of economics and typography, as congratulate its Chancellor, John Professor John Dunning OBE and Professor Michael Madejski, who was granted a food crops Twyman received their degrees at this year’s Reading knighthood in the Queen’s New

Dr Matthew Ordidge, December Graduation Ceremony. Year Honours list. Postdoctural fellow It is with great sadness that we have to report Dr Madejski receives his honour in Biological Sciences, the death of Professor Dunning in February this for his services to charity. He is inspects apples at Brogdale. year. Professor John Dunning OBE was awarded champion of several charitable the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters. He was causes such as the John Madejski Emeritus Professor of International Business at the Academy – the borough’s first and University and was the first head of the Economics only academy, the John Madejski Department upon its establishment in 1964. garden at the Victoria and Albert Professor Michael Twyman was awarded the Museum, the John Madejski Fine Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters. Professor Rooms at the Royal Academy of Twyman began as a lecturer in Fine Art at the Art and the John Madejski ‘chair University. In the 1960s, he became head of a of reputation’ initiative at Henley unit that was the first of its kind in the world: Business School. the Department of Typography & Graphic Communication. He retired in 1998, but continues his association with the Department as Director of the Centre for Ephemera Studies.

Professor Kevin Warwick amongst the conversing computers.

achines edged closer to Organiser, Professor Kevin ‘Machines are he University has taken over in over 100 acres of countryside. imitating human com- Warwick from the University’s responsibility for the cura- The collection is part of an interna- close to communication at a major School of Systems Engineering, said: tion and maintenance of the tional programme to ensure that municating Artificial Intelligence ‘These results were very exciting National Fruit Collection there are food crops for the future like humans’ Mcompetition at the University in with two of the machines getting – one of the biggest fruit collections in the context of climate and envi- T October. very close to passing the Turing in the world located at Brogdalev ronmental change. As part of the 18th Loebner Prize, Test for the first time. Although the Farm, Kent. The project is supported Professor Paul Hadley from the all of the artificial conversational machines aren’t yet good enough to by a team of academics providing University’s School of Biological entities (ACEs) competing to pass fool all of the people all of the time, expertise in horticulture, cryo- Sciences said: ‘We expect that the the Turing Test managed to fool at they are certainly at the stage of preservation, molecular genetics, scientific curation of the collections Sir John Madejsti (right) with Professor Gordon least one of their human interroga- fooling some of the people some of Marshall at his installation as Chancellor. statistical analysis and information will create opportunities to make tors that they were in fact commu- the time. management. further links with the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gordon nicating with a human rather than ‘Where the machines were identi- The National Fruit Collection key initiatives in the areas of Marshall said: ‘Dr Madejski has a machine. The eventual winner fied correctly by the human inter- includes over 3,500 named apple, “Climate Change” and “Plants, Food taken a keen interest in the life of came even closer to the 30% Turing rogators as machines, the conversa- pear, plum, cherry, bush fruit, vine and Health”.’ the University. He has an outstand- Professor John Dunning OBE. Test threshold set by 20th-century tional abilities of each machine was and cob nut cultivars (varieties), set ing international reputation for British mathematician, Alan scored at 80 and 90%, demonstrating his business achievements and has Turing in 1950, by fooling 25% of how close machines are to commu- given much to the town of Reading, human interrogators. This was the nicating with us in a way in which and to Berkshire. He is an excellent programme Elbot, created by Fred we are comfortable.’ ambassador for the University both Beamline aids research Roberts who was awarded $3,000 by here in the UK and abroad. This competition sponsor Hugh Loebner. accolade is fully deserved.’ A team of scientists from the contributing causes of Alzheimer’s University of Reading became the disease and CJD is thought to be first researchers to use the UK’s the formation of hard, insoluble national synchrotron facility – plaques between the neurons in Research strengths recognised a series of ‘super microscopes’. the brain. Professor Hamley used The strength and diversity of the Professor Dianne Berry, Pro-Vice- testament to the ability and dedica- Professor Ian Hamley, Head of Diamond’s beamline to investigate University of Reading’s research Chancellor for Research, said: ‘The tion of colleagues from typography Physical Chemistry and his team these structures – an essential step was recognised in the latest RAE outcomes demonstrate that to construction management, used the Diamond Light Source to in his research. Research Assessment Exercise we are an international leader in archaeology and philosophy.’ further their studies into the cause (RAE) with over 87% of the research areas that affect people’s For more information on Diamond’s Full results at: www.reading.ac.uk/ of diseases such as Alzheimer’s University’s research rated as of lives such as climate research circular dichroism beamline, visit about/newsandevents/releases/ and CJD. One of the main international standing. and food biosciences. They are www.diamond.ac.uk/B23 PR18774_resultstable.asp Professor Michael Twyman.

2 • University of Reading Magazine University of Reading Magazine • 3 Features The Ure Musem

1911, a certain Professor Percy N. Ure arrived to become at 30 Portland Place. They suffered grievously from What we the first Professor of Classics at Reading. Percy already damp but the main collection remained unharmed! have is a possessed a small collection of vases bought cheaply I think her feelings for the Museum are best summed representative on the continent, as well as pieces he had picked up on up in her own words: “We are proud of it but we do not various Greek sites. Over the next few years Percy and aim at acquiring masterpieces. They are in any case collection of the College continued to build the collection through beyond our means. What we have is a representative the things The Ure Museum donations from various people and institutions. Such collection of the things commonly used by ordinary commonly benefactors included the British Museum, who in 1913 Greeks both in their daily life and as offerings to used by ‘generously’ gave Ure some ‘unconsidered trifles’ – more their dead. From this material much can be deduced ordinary than 100 small vases and shards. All this was kept in a about history, trade and the character of the Greeks Greeks both Reading’s gateway to small glass case in the Professor’s room. themselves”.’ In 1957, the Museum collection moved to its present in their daily ‘A true University of Reading site in what were then state-of-the-art purpose-made life and as cases. The display largely remained the traditional offerings to treasure’ scholarly variety, with labels meaningful mainly to their dead. Greek History In 1922, the decision was taken to formally establish specialists. But in 2005 the Ure went through a radical From this a departmental museum. Given an area of its own the change which made it accessible to all with a new-look material Museum now had the room and the funds to grow. Museum presenting collections in an innovative and Percy along with his wife Annie, a former student of exciting way, and a vibrant educational resource for much can his, could now begin to realise their aim of building a visitors of all ages. be deduced collection which would be representative of the differ- The Ure now caters to the ever-increasing use of the about history, ent areas of manufacture of Greek pottery, as well as Museum as a supplement to primary school studies in trade and the glimpse into the fascinating world of ancient Greeks. the National Curriculum. School groups come to learn character of When Percy died in 1950, friend and colleague about topics such as mummification, hieroglyphics and the Greeks E.R.Dodds commented: ‘A less bossy boss than Percy making Greek pottery, furthering Percy Ure’s aim ‘to Ure it is impossible to imagine. He conducted his small give life and variety to the study of Greek History’. themselves. department on strictly democratic lines, anxiously Reading alumni play a vital part in all aspects of the trying to ensure that no one was overworked and that University’s continued success, including its museums. each of us had the sort of work best suited to his or her Current Curator of the Ure Dr Amy Smith ex- tastes and talents. Ure was the gentlest and least self- plained: ‘Sally is just one of many volunteers who assertive of men, totally devoid of the petty rancour contribute to the Museum’s success. We have Reading that appears endemic in the teaching profession.’ graduates helping with research on the collection as After Percy’s death, Annie continued their wonder- well as the history of the Museum, students working on ful work. Dr Annie Ure was one of the Department’s our database and volunteers helping with the Museum first graduates but technically had a London degree as shop and translating text into Italian and now Greek. Reading didn’t receive its charter until 1926. She was We are extremely grateful to all of them for giving This page: Percy and an unpaid Curator of the Museum for an astonishing 54 up their time.’ Annie Ure years until her death in 1976. The University honoured To mark the collection’s centenary, the Ure host- Right: The Ure Annie’s lifetime of service by presenting her with ed a champagne reception in April. Guests included museum today an honorary doctorate during the 50th anniversary Percy and Annie Ure’s son Bill, and his wife Bonnie. Glass alabastron said to have been found in celebrations. She died ten days later, after receiving a Dr Smith continued: ‘The Department of Classics Egypt circa 5th–4th stream of congratulatory messages and appreciation wishes to keep on improving the Ure and attracting Century BC from scholars all over the world. visitors, both internally and externally. We are cur- One of the wonderful things about However, tucked away in the corner of the Department ‘Ure was the Sally Fox (BA Classics, 1999) and Ure Museum histo- rently trying to raise funds to create a new, dynamic rian commented: ‘Annie’s role was to support her hus- entrance to the Museum, one which would really of Classics lies one of the University’s best kept secrets. gentlest and the University is the hidden gems A timeless treasure that tells exciting tales of a fasci- band. She was a meticulous archivist and note-keeper excite visitors, enhance their visit and hopefully least self- it harbours, lying in anticipation of nating age: The Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology. even down to the smallest shard. In the Second World encourage them to share their experience with assertive of discovery. From the Cole Museum of The Ure Museum contains the fourth most im- War she was so concerned about the safety of the best others.’ portant collection of Greek ceramics in Britain, and men, totally pieces in the Museum that she organised for the Ure’s The Ure Museum is a true University of Zoology where imposing skeletons of this year celebrates the centenary of the start of the devoid of the 12 most valuable vases to be buried in the Wine Cellar Reading treasure. Percy and Annie can rest as- giant spider crabs are displayed, to the collection. It is home to approximately 2000 objects petty rancours sured that their dedication is being emulated by a team of diligent and skilled individuals, working University’s Beckett Collection, a unique and is primarily made up of material from the Greek which appear and Greco-Roman civilisations of the Mediterranean. hard to carry on the Ure tradition and name. The endemic in assembly that contains manuscripts, Other stunning artefacts include prehistoric pottery, result is a fine Museum that reflects Percy’s firmly papers, photographs and other materials metal and stone relics of Greek and Roman date, and the teaching held belief that ‘Greek should be an experience, relating to the famous playwright Egyptian antiquities. profession.’ not an accomplishment’. It is hard to say when the Museum started but the Samuel Beckett. story of its creation is a tale of dedication, passion and patience. The collection began in 1909 with the donation of Egyptian antiquities by Mrs Flinders Petrie to Reading University College as it was known then. In

4 • University of Reading Magazine University of Reading Magazine • 5 Graduate Profile Nicola Larder

telling stories for television. She also taught me how 58 minutes of drama. The big challenge on New Tricks ‘It took 18 Graduate Profile: to respect writers and how to nurture them. I began was to manage the expectations of the show. With a months of to form a plan that I would one day become a producer huge budget, huge cast and massive viewing figures we developing like her, and that to do that I would learn how to cre- had to make sure series two was even better. It was, ate ideas and scripts for television. With 18 months un- and I stayed on New Tricks for two series until I decided scripts and der my belt I moved to the BBC to work for Holby City, that I just wanted to make my own ideas. Wouldn’t it story before a big drama that runs for 52 weeks of the year. In my be a thrill to dream up an idea and get it made? ITV1 gave six terrifying months there as a Junior Script Editor I So back to Tiger, this is where I’ve been for the last the go ahead Behind the screens learnt some big lessons, some of which I still think of two and a half years and I’m now the drama producer to make the today, when I think of how NOT to do things. I always wanted to be. As a Development Producer show.’ Nicola Larder (BA, Classical Studies, 2001) recently helped launch our I then moved onto Dream Team where I was a Junior I’m tasked to create new series ideas for prime time Media & Arts Alumni Network and in this issue, she reveals how she Script Editor. Hewland International and it’s MD, television. Jane Hewland were a world away from the corporate It took 18 months of developing scripts and story made her way from a degree in Classics to TV producer. One of her machine of Holby, and I began to thrive on the happy before ITV1 gave the go ahead to make the show. most recent projects has been with ITV1, producing Mr Eleven. chaos and small team that managed to generate over In television there are two things that we all need: 32 hours of drama every nine months. Dream Team is time and money. During that shoot we had little of a show about a fictional premiership football team either. This becomes even more of an issue in today’s Mr Eleven was a one line pitch to a powerful Executive we had to put Fiddler on. I went on to become President Above: On the set and we worked just round the corner from the stages financial climate. It teaches you to be resourceful, of Mr Eleven: Nicola Producer in order to get a brand new dream job in of the Drama Society, getting an early taste of dealing which housed all the sets. I worked along side an in- extremely tenacious and very flexible. Every day was a Larder with Michelle television. The pitch went something like this: ‘Did with some major egos and directing a Sondheim musi- Ryan house team and together we wrote and story-lined eve- huge but pleasurable challenge. Shooting days tend to you know that most women in the UK will settle down cal called Company. It was an incredible experience and Next page: Michelle rything by committee. I worked on over 64 episodes of start at 7 and finish at 7 – they’re long days and un- and marry their eleventh sexual partner? But does Mr gave me an early taste of the thrill of starting with a Ryan and Sean Dream Team. Together we created footballers and their less you’re lucky enough to be shooting in the desert, Eleven equal Mr Right?’ blank space and then filling it with characters, a story Maguire on set; families, I killed some off, I made some of them strip often very cold. We raced from one end of London to Nicola Larder on the 18 months later I was standing next to some of and action. This is what I’m paid to do today and I set of Mr Eleven off, and some of them break hearts. I decided which the other to shoot Michelle Ryan getting married or Britain’s sexiest and most sought after actors at 7am on love it. ones would fall in love, and which ones would betray Denis Lawson in hospital. We had Nick Burns stunt a cold morning in March, as the First Assistant Director I started in television a few months before graduat- and cheat each other. driving round and round in circles in an underground shouted ‘Action’ and we started filming my first origi- ing. I’d done lots of work experience during my second It was a big decision for me to move on from car park. We built sets in West London; we filmed at nal drama show. As Creator and Producer of the show it year (in theatre, radio, television and PR), and after Hewland, but there was already an exciting experience schools in Highgate. We took over a church in the was my responsibility to make it go smoothly. graduating I moved to London and immediately regis- round the corner. I had secured a job on the top rated country side; we recreated a top London hotel set in I graduated from Reading with a degree in Classical tered with a media recruitment agency, before finding BBC1 mid week drama called New Tricks as a Senior someone’s house. We were pursued by the paparazzi Studies in 2001. Whilst at Reading I’d really begun myself with one weeks work on a reception desk at Script Editor. New Tricks was a huge success, largely due in North London; we flooded a house in West Dulwich to refine my taste for not only sniffing out a good World Productions. Each morning directors, writers, to the famous faces of its main cast: Amanda Redman, in order to encourage Adam Garcia to take his top story, but for being able to find a way to tell it. I’d got actors, script editors and producers would come in, James Bolam, Alun Armstrong and Dennis Waterman. off. The shoot was amazing and I want another go, on involved in RUDS the drama society pretty early on in and over the following 18 months I came to learn what Dennis is the charmer you’d expect him to be, and yes, another show as soon as possible! my time at Reading. Having taken part in the chorus of they all did. Fellow TV addicts will remember the he did sing the theme tune! So this is where you find me now, at my desk, read- a musical, after nervously auditioning in front of some dramas This Life, Between the Line and Cardiac Arrest. This It was here that I began just over two years worth ing scripts, creating ideas, meeting writers, bartering scary second years, I found myself applying to direct a was the company responsible for making them and I of dreaming crime stories up. And I mean literally ideas with my Execs and Commissioners and seeking musical, Fiddler on The Roof with a good friend of mine. decided that I didn’t want to leave. I wanted to become dreaming them. I’d wake up in a cold sweat with a out my next ‘green light’… I went for it, despite not knowing what a director did one of the people that I was currently answering the new plot twist for a murder the team were investigat- or what a producer was. I now deal with directors phone for! I managed to get a job as a PA for the then ing. It’s quite an intellectual challenge to come up Mr Eleven is due for transmission on ITV1 in 2009. regularly and as a producer I’m responsible for dealing Head of Drama; an incredible and glamorous producer with, firstly, an original crime and secondly, a unique Precise dates to be confirmed. with budgets much more terrifying than the £500 or so called Sophie. She taught me about the process of and surprising way of solving it. This has to be done in

6 • University of Reading Magazine University of Reading Magazine • 7 Feature The Spirit of Enterprise

Knowledge Transfer Award winning partnership

The University’s Enterprise activities are also sup- Recently the University completed an ported by members of the Knowledge Transfer Centre award winning partnership between The Spirit of Enterprise and Technology Transfer Office. Riding for the Disabled, Carriage Drivers The Knowledge Transfer Centre provides a profes- Association (RDA) and the School of sional interface and single entry point for businesses to Systems Engineering, which aimed to The University of Reading is contributing to the access the University’s expertise and technical facilities. streamline IT systems and improve commu- economic, social and cultural benefits of the local How can our alumni help? Reading was recently described as the UK epicentre nication to 500 member groups and 18,000 for university knowledge transfer partnerships. volunteers. region and beyond, establishing links with companies In the last five years, the University has delivered of all sizes and encouraging entrepreneurship at the over 2000 projects – bringing together specialist Philip Crabtree, a graduate Associate, was multi-disciplinary research teams to address the needs Award winning partnership between employed to provide ongoing support heart of its activities ... of clients. These include: Riding for the Disabled, Carriage Drivers and IT development to RDA on a part-time Association (RDA) and the School of By providing talented graduates, innovative • Supplementing research and development Systems Engineering. Philip Crabtree, basis, enabling Philip to develop and run his programmes to accelerate innovation and provide graduate Associate, centre of back row own consultancy business. research and technology transfer, as well as flexible real business benefit. ‘The value of the KTP project to RDA has been immense, allowing us to develop access to continued learning, the higher education • Consultancy services that provide expert applied much more sophisticated means of communication and data management. For a sector is increasingly viewed as a central player in knowledge that can act as an effective additional charity, the value of the programme also lay in the economy achieved in allowing resource to core business activity. us to make a real sea change at relatively low cost.’ the development of a knowledge-based, globally • Cutting edge analytical and technical equipment Ed Bracher, Chief Executive, Riding for the Disabled competitive UK economy and Reading is at the including: Winning team ‘Sound Script’ at Entrepreneurship Exhibition, March forefront as an enterprising university. 2009. From left: Stuart Leat, Grant Simmonds, Victor Akeze, local • The ThamesBlue Supercomputer: The Entrepreneur Nick James, Daniel McCoach, Kieran Lee most powerful, commercially accessible, supercomputing facility in the UK. Technology Transfer The development of employability and entrepreneur- • The BioCentre: A state-of-the-art biotechnology The Technology Transfer Office ena- Recent spin-out companies include ship skills in our graduates is a key goal for Reading research facility offering expertise in genomics, bles university research to be used in Whitfield Solar and GradFutures, and our alumni are playing an important part in help- How is Reading responding to this post-genomics, and structural biology. the commercial world. We do this by which between them have so far cre- ing us to achieve this. In the Henley Business School, • The fMRI scanning facility: A highly advanced identifying intellectual property (IP), ated ten jobs. Whitfield Solar is de- global challenge for the UK economy? The Centre for Entrepreneurship offers entrepreneur- protecting it, securing development veloping low-cost solar concentrators ship programmes and extra-curricular activities to medical suite equipped with a Siemens Trio 3T whole body scanner, including brain imaging funding and either licensing it to for the generation of clean electricity. At Reading, we recognise the Recently, the University was students of all disciplines. This year 350 students and additional physiological measurement existing companies or creating a new It was chosen as one of the Guardian important role universities play in selected to become part of a con- pitched their business concepts to experts in conjunc- technologies. ‘spin-out’ company. Library House 2008 Cleantech 100 supporting the regional, national sortium of six higher education tion with the Thames Valley Innovation Festival. Our team of Technology Transfer group of private companies deemed • InnovationWorks: A stimulating and unique and international knowledge econ- institutions working with Microsoft, Simon Bassett (Human & Physical Geography, 1999), Managers manage commercialisation the hottest prospects in Europe. environment to support product, strategy and omy. This year, we received £1.9m BAESystems and the regional devel- the youngest Director of a leading UK marketing re- projects and provide IP training and GradFutures has established itself as a team development. of government funding to develop opment agencies, to create a network cruitment specialist, got involved with the Centre and advice for staff and students. They leading independent graduate recruit- These government funded Knowledge Transfer business and entrepreneurial skills of entrepreneurial universities for contributed as a judge and facilitator at the Innovation draw support from an IP and legal ment portal, working to help gradu- Partnership programmes are designed to enable busi- in Reading’s staff and students, and STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Festival. Dr Janjuha-Jivraj, Director of the Centre, is adviser and from a network of profes- ates secure jobs in the recession. nesses to improve their effectiveness and productivity to support the development and Engineering and Maths). In April the developing new programmes in Social Enterprise and sionals, from patent attorneys to ven- Our current portfolio includes through applied projects carried out jointly with commercialisation of our research, University of Reading was awarded Entrepreneurial Management (for food scientists). She ture capitalists. projects to develop radical new com- Universities. putting Reading’s Enterprise activity over £1m as part of the Economic believes the key to success lies in building successful Recent licences have included those puter chip architecture and a new way on a par with universities such as Challenge Investment Fund, which external partnerships, including with alumni. for potential antidepressants, the of synthesising small proteins with Oxford and Cambridge. aims to provide training and de- For further information please contact: Dr Shaheena The Knowledge Transfer Centre is keen to work with ‘Real Robots’ magazine for DIY robot potential for drug development. velopment programmes to support Janjuha-Jivraj, [email protected]. Reading alumni. For more information on accessing the builders, the Destinations® careers We welcome contact from alumni pharmaceutical businesses during leading minds at your University, contact us: advice web content (licensed to over with an interest in contributing as the economic down turn. Tel: 0118 378 8628 60 universities), and most recently, a speakers, advisers, investors, manag- In departments such as Food Biosciences, Typography, Email: [email protected] small incubator for investigating seeds ers or non-executive directors, or to Real Estate and Planning and Construction Web: [email protected] responses to temperature. discuss the possibility of ‘spinning in’ Management, we work closely with our alumni, many external technology. of whom are helping us with research projects, place- For more information please contact ment programmes, graduate internships, industrial Dr Sue O’Hare, Head of Technology mentoring, sponsorship and scholarships. These are Transfer, on 0118 935 7198 or email of immense value to our enter- [email protected] prise and external engagement agenda and we welcome contact from all Reading alumni interested in contributing to the further success of these activities. Professor Christine Williams Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise) [email protected]

8 • University of Reading Magazine My Generation: The 1960s were ample bathroom and kitchen facilities as well as a schools, there were no lectures on Wednesday after- Captions large common room and dining room. The rules about noons and many people used this time for various sport- Top from Left–Right: male visitors were unchanged, though there was a sug- ing activities. As well as the sports societies there were 1 RUSU Executive, gestion that the hour could be changed to 10.30pm. It religious societies, societies associated with academic 1962–3 was rumoured that when this suggestion was made to subjects, musical societies and so on, in addition to the 2 Geography Dept, the Warden, together with the point that anything that normal pubs, cinemas and other offerings in the town 1963 was going to happen could do so before 10pm, her reply itself. Within the halls there was a television in the 3 Can you identify was that if the extension to 10.30pm was allowed ‘It common room. At that time programmes were generally these students? might happen twice’. A night porter was on duty, so if transmitted live and, of course, in black and white. “Top 4 Hockey Team, 1960 one expected to be later than 11pm, this was recorded of the Pops” was very popular and I remember in my and you were let in. first year some Reading students advertising Rag Week 5 University Singers, 1960 on there! Academic life In conclusion, the Sixties were a great time to be at 6 Lacrosse Team, 1960 The Sixties was a decade that heralded My degree is in Chemistry and our year was the first university. It felt as if the world was changing, which 2nd row: Life in Hall full intake to the new Chemistry building – innovative in many ways it was. Looking back, the Fifties of my I was allocated to Mansfield Hall, one of the female halls 1 University Porters in an exciting and turbulent time – in in that it was built on floating foundations to allow for childhood were the recovery time after the war and the late ‘60s of residence along with George’s and Wessex. The male its proximity to the lake at Whiteknights. It also had the Sixties were when progress began to be made. Even music, politics and enormous shift in halls were Wantage, Whiteknights and St Pat’s and at 2 Joan Anoille’s ‘The the double-helix staircase, a fascinating structure. I had though it was a time of university expansion, probably Lark’, April 1961 the end of my first year at Reading, Bridges (female) and social attitudes. been educated at a girls’ grammar school and there were only about 5% of the population went to university and I Childs (male) were built. Youth culture became mainstream, and Britain headed only a few of us taking science A-levels so it was quite a count myself lucky to be among those. As a bright child Mansfield Hall was on the corner of London Road the way in fashion, music and football. It was time when culture shock to be in a lecture theatre with a hundred of a working class family, I received a maximum grant and consisted of a former hotel, three or four large de- the country finally moved out of the shadow of post-war other students! In a similar way that A-levels made more (£340 for the year) out of which I paid £190 for hall fees. tached houses, and a “New Block” purpose-built in the austerity and embraced new developments in science sense than O-levels, degree-level work made even more The minimum grant was, I think, £50. I worked in the gardens of the hotel and houses. As first-years we were and technology. The contraceptive pill was launched and sense. Some of it was quite challenging though, especial- summer vacations and remained solvent! A great change in twin rooms and there were a couple of bathrooms. new laws on homosexuality and abortion were brought ly the parts involving complicated mathematical formu- from the thousands of pounds debt that current students At that time all meals were provided in halls. The in. Television enabled events from across the world to be lae. The discipline of degree-level work made studying suffer. I feel that my time at university enabled me to university academic facilities were split between Main brought into people’s homes – the World Cup, the moon for my accountancy exams relatively straightforward! develop both academically and socially, giving me the Site (London Road) and Whiteknights Park – Mansfield landing, the Vietnam war, the assassination of President In the Sixties, electronic calculators were very much a confidence to proceed in my career’. was convenient for Main Site and all my lectures were Kennedy to mention but a few. thing of the future and arithmetical calculations were at Whiteknights, so getting back for lunch was a slight So what was it like for the ‘baby boomers’ who studied performed using a slide-rule or log tables. Final exams Eleanor Pettigrew (née Milburn) logistical problem! Twice a week it was formal dinner, at Reading in the 1960s – many of whom were the first at the end of our third year completed our degree, and when undergraduate gowns were worn and food deliv- BA (General Studies, 1962 & MA, in the family to afford the opportunity of a university these were held in the Great Hall; where our results ered to the table. The hall was locked at 11pm, but keys 1964) started at the University at education? were also posted. I recall our finals results were very late could be requested for use after this. I suspect the key- the end of the 1950s and in being published and I had to leave in time to catch cutters of Reading did quite a trade! completed her undergraduate Sue Blott (née Sharpe) studied for a BSc in my train home. That evening I went to my sister’s house It was the policy at Reading for most first-years to be and postgraduate qualifications Chemistry, graduating in 1968. to wait for one of my fellow students to ring and tell me in halls and I think there was probably a greater propor- at Reading during the Sixties. ‘I arrived in Reading in 1965, a time of expansion of my results. In these days of everybody having a mobile tion of residents in hall than at many other universities. ‘Reading 1959. What a long time ago university education both in general and at Reading. I phone, it seems strange to recall that my parents were People not in hall were in lodgings (again fully catered) it seems! Of course it is fifty years, was part of the post-war “bulge” being born in 1947. One not unusual in not having a land-line! and there was also St David’s Hall, a building on London but that doesn’t mean I am not still of my friends at Reading had read a newspaper article Road which provided facilities such as a common room in touch with a good many friends I which suggested that this was the University to which for those in lodgings. Social life and free time made during my time here. parents liked to send their daughters – probably because For most of us, this was the first time we had lived away In my second year I transferred to the new Bridges We arrived to take up residence in St Andrew’s Hall, there was a more balanced mix of the genders than at from home. The University provided a great number of Hall, together with two of my first year Mansfield known for being the most prestigious and, in those days, some other universities, but there was still a great deal thriving societies and social occasions such as the regu- friends. The facilities in this purpose-built hall were enlightened of the Women’s halls, not least because it oc- of gender segregation. lar Saturday night ‘hop’ in the Great Hall. Like public good. We had individual study-bedrooms and there cupied the old Huntley and Palmer house at the bottom

10 • University of Reading Magazine University of Reading Magazine • 11 Features My Generation

of Redlands Road and had Miss Ursula Martindale as its administration which followed at Sussex and the Open from St Andrew’s Hall and incarcerating them in a bath- Dinner each night was a fairly formal affair with Warden. No question of mixed accommodation unless University, I think this may be my one claim to fame, room at Wantage; it was all innocent fun! undergraduate gowns worn; grace said and sit-down you were in the non-residential “David’s”, but there were though teaching Marianne Faithful in the sixth form at The mid-summer ball was a splendid affair. I think it service with waiters. Only a few of the halls had a bar. In distinct advantages in having clean sheets delivered to St Dominic’s Convent, during my MA studies, seems to was the first time I had ever danced until dawn! On one the women’s halls the girls had to be out of their rooms one’s door and food provided at regular intervals, even if come a close second!’ occasion the music was provided by Johnny Dankworth’s from breakfast until lunchtime. The men’s halls did not the evening meal required the wearing of undergradu- band. I was to spend most of my career working with his have this rule! ate gowns, more, I suspect, to protect our clothing from Dr Anthony Langford lead trumpeter, and was to be instrumental in award- unsteady waitressing than for great formality. studied for his BA in ing an honorary degree to John and his wife Cleo Laine ‘Too young for pubs’ I was studying languages which meant a bike ride up Music from 1961– many years later. The Students Union was a small cellar on the London Redlands Road to the, then still new, Letters Faculty. 1964 and continued The music at Reading was of a very high quality. The Road site. Social events were mainly confined to Disaster only struck when a friend volunteered to take on to complete his choral society, my chief interest, presented three con- Saturday nights. Most Saturdays there was a dance our end of term essays up on the back of her bike and PhD in 1969. certs a year, and I recall a performance of Elgar’s Dream (called a “Hop”) held in the Great Hall on London Road scattered them liberally all the way up the road. The ‘I can honestly say that of Gerontius in which the part of the Angel was sung where several groups played who subsequently became drive on the Whiteknights campus was never in very I was involved with the by a young but potentially brilliant mezzo called Janet famous. Some of the pubs objected to students as we good condition but the University kept two workmen University throughout the Sixties. I applied for a place on Baker. I also remember singing for Sir John Wolfenden, were deemed to be too young and asked to leave and constantly employed patching with tar and adding the Honours Music degree course in the autumn of 1960, the Vice-Chancellor, who at that time still lived in the some pubs refused to serve students wearing jeans! gravel – referred to as “Ebb and Flow”. took a First in Music in 1964, then returned to carry V-C’s lodge in Upper Redlands Road. After his departure RAGS week was a great celebration and a hedge fund The advantage Reading had, as far as I was concerned, out musicological research which led to a PhD awarded in the mid 60s the lodge was to become the home of the raiser. “Jantac” was a Christmas celebration of music was that its small size and less competitive atmosphere in 1969. I spent my undergraduate years in Wantage; music department. and it was so popular that we would queue all night to meant that, while studying reasonably hard, I still had this was quite by chance – a former school friend was Ronald Woodham was, I think, loathed to approve ensure we got tickets. The Hall Formal was the main time to participate in several extra curricular activities. in St Patrick’s Hall and I didn’t want to cramp his style, the award of a First Class Honours degree in Music, and event in the social calendar; the dining hall in Wantage Not only in acting and play-reading (in both French and so chose a hall from the rest at random. Wantage was, indeed to countenance his department as a centre of was decorated according to the theme of the Ball and English), but also in singing (both the choral society and at that time, dominated by Agriculture students, but I research. However, it was my privilege to receive the the supper was a “cold table” which we served to our the University Singers), playing lacrosse, Hall politics think the warden wanted to broaden its clientele and former, and – thanks to the Dean and Chapter of St guests in our rooms and then moved to the dining hall (well, you’d hardly call them politics!), eventually ending was intrigued at discovering the fact that music existed George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle – to be given the op- for dancing. ‘Sheep Night’ also featured at Wantage and up as Students’ Union Vice-President (no question of a as a subject at Reading. In his enthusiasm to be helpful, portunity to open the latter. Dividing my time between I remember us wearing our bedspreads in 1964. This did woman as President in those days). he put me in a room next door to the ‘music room’, and Windsor and Reading, commuting on an ancient moped, not go down well with the domestic bursar! I spent my first year listening to enthusiastic would-be I survived to successfully present my dissertation as the Classes were held on a Saturday morning and in some University Challenge pianists (mainly farmers’ sons) trying to improve their decade came to an end’. subjects field excursions took place at the weekend, One perk of this post was being selected as a technique. which meant very few people actually went home at the member of the very first University Challenge My memories of Reading at that time are very happy Jim Burrows weekends. Team along with Mike Staveley, Giles Waines ones. The University was small even by post-war stand- graduated from the Very few people had cars then and the M4 had not and Diana Penrose. A team picked, not sci- ards. The music department had an annual intake of University in 1967 reached Reading. Hitching was regarded as a safe and entifically, but because we happened to be about half a dozen students. I was the only male in my with a degree in enjoyable way of travelling for free with the added ex- there when Mike got the letter from Granada year! Geography and has citement of not knowing if and when you were going to or were up at Reading during the Easter continued to support arrive at your destination! holiday! We had an interesting few days up As with everyone down the years, our time at Reading Jantaculum the University ever in Manchester, a visit to the Coronation One’s memories are mainly of the unusual: Jantaculum and in Wantage was a great experience and many of us Street set (I didn’t know the significance of since. have kept in touch and reunions have regularly taken was an annual festivity held around Christmas time. I ‘I was in Wantage from 1964–1967 and several recol- this, since my family had no TV at home) conducted a chamber choir, the University Singers, and place.’ and three matches recorded with Leeds lections come to mind. Perhaps the most pronounced we were always involved, notably leading the procession The next ‘My Generation’ article will be about life at the University (one lost, one won, and one was the way in which the University and the Halls saw of the Boar’s Head through the hall. Sheep Night hasn’t University in the 1970s – we’d love to hear what you got neck-and-neck). The one shown was, of themselves as in loco parentis as we were not legally registered much on my memory, except that I was one of up to and for you to email any photographs you have from course the last, being “Good TV”, but a group of Wantageians who were fined 10 shillings each “mature” until the age of 21. your time at Reading then. Please send all recollections to unfortunately won by Leeds. Sometimes, by the warden for ‘kidnapping’ several female students despite a long career in University Trish O’Neill at: [email protected]

The Chemistry building is The Friends Bridge Chancellor: Lord Bridges opened. links the central cam- Students disrupt Vice-Chancellors: 1950–63: Sir John Wolfenden pus to Earley Gate and 3 new Halls were estab- University Council, pro- 1963–4: Professor J.M.R. Cormack (Acting Vice-Chancellor) Halls of Residence on University library opens at lished – Whiteknights, testing against a NATO 1964–1978 Sir Harry Pitt Whiteknights Road Whiteknights. Wessex and Windsor, each conference being held in The J.J. Thompson Physical Whiteknights Hall with its distinctive style of The National College Bridges and Childs Halls A second extension to Physics. of Food Technology at open. Laboratory opened by Sir The University has 27 is opened, replacing architecture. the Faculty of Letters, Neil Armstrong becomes Weybridge was agreed to George Thomson on 17 departments and 27 es- Blandford Lodge and Park Cassius Clay beats Sonny Department of the Palmer Building; the first person to step on be incorporated into the May 1960. tablished professorships. House. Liston. Meteorology is Whiteknights House and the moon. University. established. Sibly Hall opened. Italian is established as a Russia won the space race, U.S. astronaut John H. John F. Kennedy is assas- Radio Caroline becomes Students’ Union at Woodstock – ‘Three Days The U.S. escalates war in separate department. the Berlin Wall was erect- Glenn, Jr. becomes the sinated by Lee Harvey England’s first pirate radio England win the World Cup First heart transplant car- Whiteknights opens. of Peace and Love’ draws Vietnam. John F Kennedy is elected ed and Audrey Hepburn first American to orbit Oswald. station. The Cultural revolution ried out. Martin Luther King and hundreds of thousands to President of the United starred in ‘Breakfast at the earth. The Beatles hit the big The Rolling Stones release Churchill dies begins and skirts get Elvis and Priscilla Presley Robert F. Kennedy are New York. States. Tiffany’s’. Marilyn Monroe died. time. their debut album. Thunderbirds were go! shorter! marry. assassinated. Concorde takes off.

12 • University of Reading Magazine University of Reading Magazine • 13 development, Alumni & friends news WhWheerree ar aree y yoouu no now?w

Anthony Poole GenSc 61, PhD Rosemary Dowsett (Mrs Mc- together from various wine vats Development News News entries are shown Keeping in touch Micro & Physiol 69, DSc 85, WG Minn) Geog 75, WX teaches in and barrels to create a taste UK Alumni News is Professor Emeritus at McGill Birmingham and runs a regional wine customers will enjoy. alphabetically by surname Many ask for news of friends. University. unit for deaf/blind pupils. She has Phillip Donaldson Engl 88, WL within graduation decade. If you would like to contact In Memoriam – Dr Narin Tongsiri A selection is shown here of worked in special education since wrote an article in the Racing Post someone appearing in leaving university. news items received by the 1970–79 in October 2008 concerning the (PhD Food Science, 1972) these pages, or other former Psy 73 closure of Reading stadium. He Development and Alumni Mary Salvi (Mrs Al-Naber) Ital Diana Ottaway is organist students, ring/email/write to for a local church in Chichester. writes, ‘As the lease expires, and Office (DARO) from the 74, WX. Since 1981 has lived in the DARO to find out if we have Ger 70, GE the bulldozers prepare to move in magazine update forms, letters north of Baltimore, USA. She is Jennifer Palmer is re- a current address. Addresses tired and has moved back to Lan- on behalf of new tenants, the Pru- from contemporaries, web married and has 3 adult children. dential, another bit of greyhound will not be disclosed to third She regularly visits the UK. cashire to research her roots. She forms or press cuttings. parties, unless we have had has published on local history and history is about to be wiped off Colin Brock MEd 70 is retired but permission to do so, but we edited 4 books of short stories. the landscape.’ Let us know your news works part-time at Oxford Univ. Rebecca Thomas (Mrs Eele) LLB are happy to forward letters. He was lecturer in Geography in Jane Rhodes Ag 74, WG. In Oc- If you’d like to update us on 85, WG ran a company listed on Contact details are listed on the high schools from 61–69, his last tober 2008 moved from Devon UK Exchange in December 1999 your news, don;t forget to fill in inside cover. school being Henley-on-Thames to Leicestershire and is enjoying a then sold it to US Investment Co. the form which came with your Grammar School. Whilst at Henley new country lifestyle with a new LeggMason. She emigrated to New magazine. he began an MEd at Reading part- partner. Zealand in 2004 with her husband time and moved to a lectureship Richard Sambrook Engl 77, WI. and 2 sons. She then ran ING NZ at Bulmershe College before com- In 2001 he became director of Belgium. Even more unlikely is that Ltd for 2 years on the Investment 1940–49 pleting it. He then became Educa- BBC news and in 2004 director 3 ex-Reading University cricketers side. She started MINT in Novem- Once again, the generosity extended to of its work. Gifts from a wide range of in- tion Adviser for the Caribbean of BBC Global News, covering the should unknowingly find them- ber 2006 and in 2008 her husband Development Division which is World Service and the commercial the University by our alumni and friends dividuals, corporate donors and charitable selves participating in the same started a mobile phone company, now DFID. On returning he gained news operations. Richard recently It is with great sadness that we re- match – 2 as umpires and 1 as a Blake and White. has been staggering, particularly given the trusts continue to support Archaeology in player. But this is exactly what hap- a lectureship at the University of hosted the first Reading alumni port the death of Dr Narin Tongsiri, Leeds 74–77 and then was Chair network for those working in the difficult economic climate. Over 700 new the field through our excavation at Silchester pened on 6 May 2007 when David our Overseas Alumni Secretary for Baker (Fr & Germ 78), Chirag of the International Education media and arts. donors have made a gift to Reading this Roman town, which has benefitted from Kothari (Man & Econ 05) and Unit at the Univ of Hull 77–92, Jayne Shepherd Soc 78, DA. Af- Thailand. Dr Narin was an incred- myself took part in the Antwerp then moved to Oxford where he is ter 18 years as a hospital chaplain academic year, with many choosing to join almost £100,000 worth of donations. Indians CC match against Ostend a Fellow of St Hugh’s College. He he is now a ‘new vicar’. Friends ible supporter of the University and has published approximately 30 almost 1,000 of their fellow donors in one of The Boat Club has also attracted signifi- Exiles. Given a span of nearly 5 from Reading attended his induc- was so very generous with his time decades, there are no prizes for books, 100 articles and chapters in tion service at St Cross, Knutsford. our two giving clubs. The Reading Pioneers cant support from alumni in recent months. Muriel Warren (Mrs Jessop) guessing which of the three was books and 25 research reports. and organising a network for Thai Geog 42, DipEd 43, AN the player! The match was held at Colin Brown Hist 75, DA is the is the PGCE Ed 85, DA recognises those leading philanthropy at Rowing at Reading has a burgeoning reputa- widow of Raymond JESSOP (Geog the Wilrijk ground in Antwerp – a British Film Commissioner, UK Film Carenza Ellery alumni. He was one of the earliest is teaching Art and English as a the University by making a gift of £1,000 or tion, with an increasing number of oarsmen 42), former student and lecturer regular fixture in the first Division Council, in London. He is working PhD graduates in the Department in School of Education. She is now of the Belgian Cricket Federation on attracting Inward Investment Foreign Language at the Andalusia more each year. Blandford Club members and women gaining national recognition. In retired from teaching and is a and a venue for international from US prosecution entities to Academy. She is performing a and Narin was the first Dean of the housewife and mother. She works matches held under the auspices make films in the UK using UK skills show she has written to celebrate are donors making gifts by direct debit to order to provide the resources necessary to for Earley Volunteer Care Bureau of the European Cricket Council.’ and facilities e.g. Harry Potter se- 50 years of the Mini at The Rondo Faculty of Agro Industry at Chiang Theatre in Bath. the Annual Fund, allowing the University to build on this success, the Club has launched arranging lifts for people with William Halkon Ag 68, CH has ries, Bond films. Mai University, and retired a few mobility difficulties. retired to a game farm on the Linda Cobb DipEd 70 has moved William Hill LandMan 82, WG is plan for future student-focused projects with a campaign to upgrade the equipment avail- Limpopo River in Botswana. from Santiago to Chile now that Head of Property, Schroders. He years ago. He was a great friend and her husband has retired. They are has taken what was a purely UK 1950–59 John Loxton Cert Ed Geog 68 Syed Zaidi MSc Ag 72, SB. After increased certainty. able and to provide every opportunity for busy developing their house and business to continental Europe supporter of the Food Biosciences gained a BEd while teaching in Reading he gained practical ex- garden ready to receive children, and made Schroders first ventures Members of the Pioneers and Blandford increased Reading representation at the Australia in the 70s and has had perience in mechanised farming grandchildren and friends. She into Asia over the past 2 years. In Department and is responsible for the opportunity to teach ge- while working for Delph Farm, Club receive donor pins – gold and silver 2012 Olympics. says if anyone is visiting Chile to December 2006 he began work ography in the UK and Western Winwick, Warrington. From 60–70 the longstanding relationship we please get in contact. on the acquisition of Aareal Asset respectively – to recognise the generous The above is in no way an exhaustive list Australia and has been an Interna- he worked in India, State Dept of tional Exchange Teacher in British Ray Collings Lat/Archaeol 74, Management, a move that turned have had with the Food Science Agriculture, Bihar. In 73 he moved Schroders into a pan-European and valuable contribution they make to the of the wide-ranging impact philanthropy Columbia, Canada. He retired as WG lives on the edge of Minute- to Nigeria where he worked as investment and asset manager Department in Chiang Mai. a Head of Department in Perth in man National Park outside Boston, Agronomist in many parts of the and added £2.9bn of assets under future life of the University. For those of you is having on the University, with many do- 2007 and is now operating a suc- USA. He has 2 beautiful daughters, Dr Narin will be greatly missed by country in various organisations management. Since the Aareal cessful family garden design and one old dog and a fun job – Latin not in receipt of your pin, they will be with nors taking advantage of the government’s such as State Department of acquisition he has helped broaden landscape business in the south teacher at Applewild School, all of us and our thoughts are with Agriculture, World Bank assisted the business into Asia, as well as you shortly! matched giving initiative. Please take a look west of the state. He would like to Fitchburg. project under the technical as- his friends and family. Roland Gabadou Occ Geog 51, re-establish contact with former increasing the European coverage. Alongside the continued success of the at the back cover for more details. James Ford Geol 72, WI is again sistance arm of the World Bank on Outside of the business, he spends Picture above shows Dr Narin wel- DA is a member of the Universite Bulmershe College friends and standing for the European Parlia- World Bank Terms of Contract. He des Aimes, a bureau connected to lecturers. all his time managing his ‘portfolio Annual Fund, the University benefits from ment in this year’s elections in the worked as Senior Agronomist at of six children’. Andy Wood coming graduates at our event in Louvain La Neuve University. Daphne Henderson (Mrs Mac- AERLS of Ahmadu Bello Univ Zaria South West England and Gibraltar. BEd philanthropic support towards the majority Peter Lovesey Engl 58, WG took Farlane-Smith) AgBot 69. In Sep- from 1984-90. He then moved to Beryl Jasper (Mrs Hunt) Bangkok in 2006 Paul Geelmuyden Ag 76, WG. Geog 82, BU Director of Development & Alumni Relations place in the first Reading Festival tember 2008 she retired from DC the Sudan where he worked as Se- gave up teaching Since mid 2006 is Insurance Man- Geography at an International VI of Crime Writing in September Thomson & Co Ltd after 20 years’ ager with BAA, based at Heathrow. nior Agronomist for Huntings, UK, 2008 over 3 days. The festival was service with the Sunday Post. She as well as for IFAD under Sudanese Form College to set up the Com- Hilary James, Fine Art 74 SA, organised by Reading Libraries worked on the queries page for Government. He is now retired in puters in Education Centre for Cert Ed 76 BU is brought ‘Hilary and Reading Borough Council 5 years and the Raw Deal section Patna, India, and became a wid- Berkshire, at a time when the aim James and friends: songs, stories and was held in the Town Hall, for 15 years. She met her husband ower in 1990. was to get one BBC Computer into and traditions’ to the University’s Blagrave Street. Peter released Bill at Reading and they married in every Primary School. In retire- Museum of English Rural Life this his 30th novel The Head-hunters Oxford in 1970. They have 3 sons ment she spent 18 years under- The Friends of the University spring. The series of folk music 1980–89 taking conservation work. This in May 08 after a career that has and live in Broughty Ferry. She will concerts, workshops and illus- seen his novels translated into 22 be pursuing her interest in pho- Sunday Arogba MSc FdT 82 included being responsible for the trated talks featured her regular The new year has brought an even fuller a truly enjoyable afternoon which culmi- buildings which may not normally be languages with 10 of them seen on tography and wildlife, playing golf became Professor in 2000 at Kogi purchase and management, by The musical partner Simon MAYOR film or television. and gardening. State University, Nigeria, and has Chiltern Society, of the derelict programme for members. The first event nates in a splendid tea, organised by The accessible to the public. (Russ 76, DA), one of the world’s Dip Ag Pltry Hus been Dean of Faculty of Natural Ewelme Watercress Beds in South Andrew Mescal Charles Mitchell MAgSc 68, CH foremost mandolin players, along Oxon and the restoration of their was on Wednesday 25 March and was a Chairman’s wife and her helpers. Our autumn talk will be held on 57 Sciences and Director of Academic . On retirement did consultancy is an Honorary Fellow of I.AGR.E with other special guests includ- Planning. historic structure, for which she with EU Commission; sits on the for his work with engineering visit to The School of Systems Engineering Our Yearly Meeting was held on Wednesday 18 November and will be ing actor Tim Healey. It was as a Susan Jackson (Mrs Daniels) was awarded an MBE. Entering Irish Food Board; was President students and is also a University student in the 70s that Hilary first higher education as a very mature for a talk and tour hosted by Professor Wednesday 8 July. A visit to the Museum given by ‘Alumnus of the Year, 2008’, Shorthorn Cattle Society of UK College governor. He would like to FdSc 82, WL is a senior technolo- became interested in folk music gist in beers, wines and spirits, student provided four incredible and Ireland 99–01 and President hear from other 67–68 students. and English traditions, going on to years, and a forerunner of many Chris Guy, Head of School. The School of English Rural Life (MERL), Redlands Professor Debby Reynolds entitled – ‘From Royal Dublin Society 04–07. Mus 68, WG and juggling a jet-setting career as Richard Owen . In run the thriving student folk club Marks and Spencer’s Champagne others. She is delighted that her Lindsay Connor (Mrs Wall) received a grant from The Friends in 2008 Road, to view the archives and special Chief Vet to travels in the Caucasus’. September 2008 gave a talk on, for three years. During a first year and Fortified Wine Buyer, with granddaughter is now studying for Geog 58, AN. In September 08, she the history of conducting and Fine Art project she utilised the for the purchase of a bench. collections was preceded by tea and the bringing up 3 children. After Read- an MA in Atmosphere, Oceans & Membership is open to all those interested and David (Geog 58) celebrated musical directing, to a meeting of Museum of English Rural Life and, ing, she completed a stint in the Climate at Reading. A coach trip to Kew on Saturday 9 May meeting. their golden wedding anniversary. the Dronfield Afternoon Towns- in her second, lived in the former Poultry department at M & S be- Elinor Holliday (Mrs Hunter) in the University’s educational goals, its They spent the week in Madeira women’s Guild. St Andrews hall of residence fore joining full-time in 1982 in the FdScEcMkt 89, BR has been ap- was a first for the Friends. This proved to On Sunday 11 October we will once and had a get-together for family John Pinschof Psy 63, PA has where, following its restoration, non-alcoholic drinks department; pointed as Group Marketing history, current activities and future develop- and friends when they returned. the Museum is now based. She be a very popular idea as all seats were again be organising a Heritage Trail retired from the NHS private work followed by Dairy, Cake and Con- Director for snack manufacturer, ment. New members are always welcome. John Wall Geog 58, PhD 66. See service as Consultant Clinical was therefore delighted to return fectionery. She then transferred to Tayto Group, the Tandragee-based taken! which will concentrate on visiting build- Lindsay CONNOR 1958. Psychologist. He is now engaged to old haunts which now provide the Wine & Drinks team in 1995. snack manufacturer. She will have For an application form contact: The in therapy with adults and chil- the perfect setting for English folk M & S sponsored her to take the responsibility for overseeing, de- Friday 19 June saw what is hoped to ings with a Palmer or Waterhouse con- music. Secretary, DARO, 1st Floor, Blandford Lodge, 1960–69 dren and heavily involved in legal WSET Diploma in 1996. She regu- veloping and implementing brand become an annual visit to Bledlow, the nection and will finish with a tea at the Hector Doel Ag 60 says, ‘it may work re personal injury and family William MacFarlane Smith PhD larly visits France, Portugal and strategies. Whiteknights, P O Box 217, Reading RG6 6AH come as a surprise to discover that courts. He is BPS representative AgBot 76, WG. See Daphne HEN- Spain, going to wineries and vine- Amanda Killingbeck (Mrs gardens of Lord Carrington, for which MERL. Hopefully this will attract families the quintessential English game on Royal Courts of Justice Family DERSON 1969. yards, selecting wines by blending Kilingbeck-Turner) Ger 89, BR or email [email protected] Division. members are most grateful. This is always and newcomers to the campus to view of cricket is played in, of all places, has been working in conventional Tel: 0118 378 8006.

14 • University of Reading Magazine University of Reading Magazine • 15 Events round-up Events round-up

University says a big ‘thank you’ to donors – Annual Donor Day Events round-up 18 April 2009

Reading Real Estate Foundation’s 7th Annual Dinner Media & Arts Alumni Networking Event Tuesday 7 October 2008, partly sponsored by Europa Capital 1 December 2008 More than 550 alumni and guests dinner, RREF Board member Harry This inaugural networking event, held at the atmos- were welcomed to the 7th Annual Chichester (MSc Land Management, pheric Hall in the Crypt at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Dinner at The Brewery, London 2000) began the raffle by awarding attracted a wide range of alumni. Our keynote speaker, Kuala Lumpur High Tea with Vice-Chancellor which helped to raise nearly champagne, a £400 travel voucher Richard Sambrook (BA, English, 1977), Director of Professor Gordon Marshall & Professor Patricia £18,000 for RREF. and even a much coveted unicycle! BBC Global News provided a stimulating talk on ‘The Leopold Guests were officially welcomed Thank you to Laithwaites, Cushman Future of News.’ Nicola Larder (BA, Classics, 2000), Sunday 15 March 2009 a Drama Producer at Tiger Aspect Productions gave 85 alumni in Malaysia enjoyed High Tea at the British by RREF Chairman, Bryan Laxton & Wakefield and King Sturge for The University held its 3rd Annual speakers, including 3 Michelin- an insight into life as a Drama Producer. Professor High Commissioner’s Residence, hosted by Mandy (BSc, land Management, 1981), CEO donating the raffle prizes. Donor Day on Saturday 18 April, to starred Chef Heston Blumenthal Jonathan Bignell (Head of the School of Arts, English Johnson (BA, Geography, 1977), Director of the British UK at Cushman & Wakefield. After say a big thank you to those who OBE (DSc, 2006) and current stu- and Communication Design and Director of the Centre Council in Malaysia, who spoke warmly about her generously make gifts. Over 200 dent and Olympic Medallist, Anna First Henley Alumni Ball for Television Drama Studies at Reading) chaired the time at the University. Vice-Chancellor Professor guests, including alumni, corpo- Bebington. Guests also had an Saturday 11 October 2008 panel discussion. Gordon Marshall and Professor Patricia Leopold shared rate sponsors, students and staff, opportunity to see how their con- Sponsored by American Express, Ball and raised over £6,000 for the news with alumni about the merger with Henley participated in a hugely successful tributions make a real difference Constellation Europe and Diageo Alumni Fund. Guests spilled out Construction Management and Engineering Alumni Business School, outlined the partnership with Taylor’s day that celebrated those who help to current students, by viewing an plc. Thank you to alumni for gener- onto the front lawn of the Business Networking Reception University College, as well as the joint INCEIF & make the University one of the top exhibition that showcased some of ously donating auction prizes. School and danced until the early Wednesday 25 February 2009 University of Reading Islamic Finance programme. 200 universities in the world. the important projects they helped 250 alumni from all over the world hours to the amazing band ‘The Sponsored by EC Harris – with a special thanks to Rob Donors came from as far as to fund. attended the First Henley Alumni Dark Blues’. Cox (BSc Quantity Surveying, 1987) and Helen Sykes. Serbia and Abu Dhabi, as well as Diane Lambe, (BAF, English and With the need to respond to global warming, the Annual Head of the River Race from across the UK, to enjoy a French, 1993) commented: ‘I am growth of population and the emergence of mega- 25 March 2009 Annual House of Lords Alumni Reception Reading University Boat Club (RUBC) put in a superb VIP Lunch and hear from guest very proud of “my” university and cities, Profesor Derek Clements-Croome’s keynote 7 November 2008 performance at the Head of the River Race. Both the very much appreciated the oppor- addressed the ‘Challenges and Opportunities for men and ladies did the club proud, with the women tunity to come back to campus. The Intelligent Buildings in the 21st Century.’ Ashley Davis finishing a fantastic 21st out of 300 crews, improving speakers were particularly impres- (MSc Intelligent Buildings, 2004), an alumnus and IT on last year’s great effort by 25 places. Meanwhile the sive and demonstrated once again Division Managing Director, JP Morgan Chase, provided men’s first eight moved up 17 places from the 2008 the university’s far-reaching impact an argument for ‘Intelligent Buildings – the negative race, finishing an incredible eighth out of 420 crews, on the outside world.’ impact of technology.’ Many alumni appreciated the the best ever result for RUBC at the Head. opportunity to network and catch up with friends at this thought-provoking and popular event, especially during the current economic climate. Class of 1991 Reunion June 2009 1958 Reading University Arctic Expedition to the Vatnajokull icecap 50 year Reunion Three members of the 1958 Arctic Expedition met for a reunion in Shaftesbury, John Cole-Morgan (Wantage), spectacular night time Thames Mike Hillman (St.Davids), Alan Taylor (St.Patricks), con- USA Alumni events views from the balcony, as well as tact having been lost with the fourth member G. ‘Steve’ May 2009 an update on University develop- Stevenson. ments provided by Vice-Chancellor The expedition to Iceland in the summer of 1958 The Vice-Chancellor, along with so many fellow Reading grads in Professor Gordon Marshall. A studied the field mice population in an isolated ‘island’ Andy Wood and Trish O’Neill, the ‘Bay’ area! Thank you to all of mini reunion for many, friends of birch woodland at the foot of the Vatnajokull icecap recently visited the United States those whom we met in New York, reminisced about their Reading and surveyed the Sidujokull glacier. The apparent 8 alumni from the Class of 1991 had a mini reunion to continue with developments San Francisco and Los Angeles days and we again saw many retreat of the outflow glacier from the Vatnajokull was on Whiteknights Campus on 16 June. Nayanee Silva, for the US Alumni Foundation, and for your generous support. alumni travelling from other investigated, it was found that the retreat of 500m from Anthony Igoe and Duncan Carter were joined by meet with alumni and hold events We are looking forward to work- The Cholmondeley Room at the countries to meet up with their the 1947 aerial reconnaissance map was due to the fall Masoud Al Barwani, Fayaz Manji and Hala Al-Madi who on the East and West Coast. It was ing with you more closely over House of Lords once again played contemporaries. in the level of Lake Graenalon into which the glacier flew in from Oman, Canada and Jordan. This was the an extremely successful trip and the coming months to ensure host to the sell-out 2008 Alumni flowed, rather than an actual retreat of the glacier. The first time some of the group had seen each other since a wonderful opportunity to meet you have well-founded networks Reception, which was kindly The 2009 date for the annual House expedition was sponsored by Proctor and Gamble, H.J. graduation, so there was a lot of reminiscing and plen- with so many of our alumni in in order that you can meet and hosted by Emeritus Chancellor, of Lords event is Friday 27 November. Heinz, MAFF and the British Museum. ty of remarks about how much campus had improved the US. Those in San Francisco support the University and a US Lord Carrington. Guests enjoyed Email [email protected] for since their day. were particularly pleased to see Foundation for giving. the private tours of the Lords, the details.

18 • University of Reading Magazine University of Reading Magazine • 19 Events diary

Harris Garden Open Day Friends Heritage Trail Cafe Scientifique: The economics 9 August 2009, 2–6pm 11 October 2009, 2.00pm–5.00pm of happiness Harris Garden, University of Reading Concentrating on buildings with 16 November 2009, 7.30pm Waterhouse and Palmer connections. Déjà vu Bar and Eatery: 61 St. Mary’s Contact: David Hewitt, Membership Registration in Palmer Building. Butts, Reading, RG1 2LG Secretary, Friends of the Harris Garden, Reading Alumni Travel (University of Reading) Contact: Brenda Morris With Dr Marina Della Giusta, a 0118 987 2119 [email protected] Senior Lecturer in the School of davidhewitt@friendsoftheharrisgar- Economics. Her research covers den.org.uk Cafe Scientifique: Stem cells, development and institutional eco- Programme 2010 ethics and human rights nomics, focussing on the roles of Cafe Scientifique: Nothing to 26 October 2009, 7.30pm institutions and social mechanisms worry about Déjà vu Bar and Eatery: 61 St. Mary’s in determining market access and IMA has pioneered alumni travel in the UK. Our exciting tours have been designed for 14 September 2009, 7.30pm Butts, Reading, RG1 2LG wellbeing, and on gender issues. people with a general interest in the featured country, but all our itineraries have a Déjà vu Bar and Eatery: 61 St. Mary’s Stem cell research and other biotech- Free entry, all welcome. For more Butts, Reading, RG1 2LG nologies reliant on human material information please see core educational element enhanced by the accompanying Reading lecturers. Ever been told that it is impossible to are controversial and challenging. www.reading.ac.uk/cafesci divide by zero? Yes. Ever been given They force us to ask questions like For a brochure giving a good reason why not? No – because when does life begin, what does it Friends Autumn talk ‘From Chief Dear alumni and Friends, An archaeological cruise along the full details, contact: it is possible and you already know mean to be human, and how should Vet to travels in the Caucasus’ to Welcome to the University of Reading travel Turquoise coast be given by Professor Debby Temple World Limited how to do it. Come along and release we protect human identity into the From Halicarnassus and Knidos to Loryma & Reynolds programme for 2010. There are some fascinating 13 The Avenue, the mathematician inside yourself! future? Caunos Richmond, TW9 2AL 18 November 2009 trips on offer to you, with many exciting ways of Dr James Anderson is a lecturer in Dr Shawn Harmon is a Research Tel: Computer Science at the University Fellow at ESRC InnoGen and AHRC Tea in the Blue Room from 4.15pm. travelling with companions from Reading. IMA (+44) 020 8940 4114 of Reading where he is designing a SCRIPT, both at the University of Talk in Palmer Bldg R109, 1st floor, at has been operating intellectual tours for United Fax: computer with as many processors as Edinburgh. His research examines 5.30pm. (+44) 020 8332 2456 Kingdom University Alumni for twenty years. Email: the number of neurons in the hu- the governance of genomic technolo- 5th RREF Breakfast Forum Many hundreds have travelled with IMA to nearly [email protected] man brain. gies through legal and bioethical 25 November 2009, 7.45am– Website: mechanisms, and the values that are every part of the world and have enjoyed the Date: 5–12 June 2010 www.imatravel.com Free entry, all welcome. For more 9.45am disclosed through our governance very special atmosphere of their unique journeys Price: £1325 pp sharing, full board including flight from information please see ATOL Protected 2903 instruments. Lovells, Holborn Viaduct, London London. Single supplement £300 www.reading.ac.uk/cafesci – that combination of intellectual stimulation All our tours are The shores of Turkey are blessed with the finest scenery Free entry, all welcome. For more and bodily relaxation in the company of like- accompanied by Contact: Dr Lucy Chappell Alumni Reception at the House of and the purest seas in the Mediterranean. The mountain- trip scholars and information please see 0118 378 7391 Lords minded travellers. Many come back year after ous landscape has been sculpted into long peninsulas managerial staff www.reading.ac.uk/cafesci [email protected] Friday 27 November 2009, year to repeat the experience. and deep inlets whose remoteness creates an ideal coast 6.30pm–8.30pm to cruise. In Classical times, these waters witnessed the RREF 8th Annual Dinner The Royal County of The University benefits from each booking made plying of Roman galleys and Greek triremes sailing to 29 October 2009, 6.30pm Tickets per person: £45 (early bird Berkshire Show booking) / £50 (thereafter). and we do hope you will be able to participate in the most famous cities of the ancient world. Our cruise 19–20 September 2009 The Grange St Paul’s Hotel, London is from Halicarnassus (Bodrum) along the coast of an- Email [email protected] for early the travel programme. cient Caria. Newbury Showground, Berkshire Contact: Rebecca Robson bird booking details and for further [email protected] / www. Trish O’Neill, Deputy Director, The University will be exhibiting information or check out rref.net Development & Alumni Relations at the Royal Berkshire Show this www.reading.ac.uk/alumni Discver the delights of private year and we would be delighted to Annual History Stenton Lecture barge cruising see alumni at our tent. Innovative University of Reading Christmas The Galapagos Islands & Ecuador 12 November 2009 displays and activities will be in- Concert Zoology, ornithology and ecology of the Pacific Cruising through Alsace-Lorraine cluded from the Museum of English Reading. Guest speaker Neil In association with the Friends of Date: 31 July–6 August 2010 MacGregor, Director of British Rural Life, Food Biosciences and the University, Music@Reading and Price: £1795 pp sharing, full Museum Agriculture. the Museum of English Rural Life board including flight from Please note that the London and wines with lunch We are particularly keen to hear Contact: Ruhi Singh Sunday 6 December 2009 running of all tours is and dinner.

Alumni & Friends events diary events & Friends Alumni the sole responsibility [email protected] from Agriculture alumni who may Join us for carols and music in the Single supplement £950 of the tour operator have old footage, photographs, Great Hall. providing them. The Children’s Literature MA – 25th Date: 28 November–10 December 2010 We have organised anoth- University of Reading research pieces and any other inter- Further details will follow at er French canal holiday, exclusively Anniversary Lecture and Price: £4350 per person sharing, including flight from London. has no control over, or esting artefacts from their time at chartering a hotel barge to take our responsibility for the Celebrations www.reading.ac.uk Single supplement £1450. Reading. party of twenty two passengers on a operation of tours. 12 November 2009 We are delighted to offer, for the tenth year, an alumni The information Contact: Ruhi Singh Alumni Entrepreneurship delightful cruise through the heart Guest speaker, Dr Johanna Motzkau, tour to this naturalist’s paradise. Visit the World Heritage provided here is for Network of Alsace-Lorraine, where French & general information 0118 378 8058 city of Quito and then spend eight days on an exclusive lecturer in forensic psychology at the German culture entwine to create only. If you are [email protected] Expected 2009/ 2010 Open University. private cruise of the Galapagos Islands on the cruiser one of France’s most enchanting re- interested in making If you are interested in getting Coral, with just 30 passengers all in en suite cabins. In gions. The experience is a sybaritic a booking, please Contact: Ruhi Singh contact the travel involved with this alumni network – the company of expert naturalists get up close to the mix of elegant wines, haute cuisine operator directly [email protected] please contact [email protected] astonishing birdlife, iguanas, sea lions, dolphins and and escorted visits to the Mediaeval for more detailed giant tortoises. sites of the region. information

20 • University of Reading Magazine Development & Alumni Relations Office

There’s never been a better time … to make a difference

In August 2008, the Government launched a Matched Giving Scheme. This initiative means that for every £3 you donate to the Annual Fund, we can reclaim an extra £1 at no additional cost to yourself. Along with Gift Aid, your donation will be significantly increased by 61%. This scheme is continuing to boost all gifts received until August 2011, ensuring that we can continue to sustain our esteemed reputation as one of the top 200 Universities in the world.

Now, more than ever, your support will make a phenomenal difference to enhancing the lives of the students and academics on campus today, as they work together to enrich the lives of those in the real world. Join our vision and shape our future; the time is now.

Annual Fund For more information, or to talk about making a gift, please contact: Development and Alumni Relations Office University of Reading Blandford Lodge Reading RG6 6AH United Kingdom [email protected] Tel (0118) 378 8006 www.reading.ac.uk/alumni