THE BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION
B E R G M A N Ö N A S T E R T I B E A R R M G
D A R T F O R D
2008 D1201-8 CONTENTS
Page Letter from the Chairman 2 Letter from the Editor 3 Agenda for the AGM 2008 6 Minutes of the AGM 2007 8 BÖU Committee 2008 19 One of Madame’s Girls 22 Archival Hockey: Visit to Madame Österberg’s College 24 The Dream Come True: Part 2 25 ‘How I stumped cricket’s establishment’ – Rachael Heyhoe-Flint OBE 28 Dartford Borough Sports Awards 29 Bergman Österberg Cricket Trophy 30 The Dartford Song/Poetry Collection 31 Dartford Links 37 The BÖU/PEA Award 38 News from Former Students 38 Obituaries 42 Changes to the Register 2007-2008 52 BÖU Accounts 53 BÖU Benefit Fund Accounts 54 News from the Archive 55 The Donation of Material to the Archive 56 The Benefit Fund 57 The Bergman Österberg Trust Awards 59 BÖU Website 60
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 1 Letter from the Chairman Dear Friends,
As you will all know from the Newsletter, I was in Moorfields hospital in January for six days. This was for operations and radiotherapy treatment for a tumour at the back of my left eye. The condition is called an ocular melanoma, and is very rare, as only one in twenty thousand people have it, and only three consultants in the country perform the procedure I had done. Whilst I like to be different, there are not many advantages in this case, as obtaining advice is difficult. However, I am gradually recovering, and I returned to school on a very reduced timetable in July. I hope to be back to full strength by Christmas. My eye is still painful and I find it difficult to read and use the computer for any length of time.
As a result, I have not been able to contribute as much as usual to the work of the BÖU since Christmas, but you will see from the magazine that our work continues unabated. On your behalf, my grateful thanks go to our committee, who have carried out all our normal duties. In particular, I would like to thank Margaret Chamberlain for her unwavering support and kindness. Also Gill Metcalfe, Rosemary Moon, Ida Webb for the magazine and Pat Chatters for taking my place at the Sports Awards. My special thanks go to Jilly, who has shouldered most of the burden.
On a personal note, the support I have had from my BÖU family has been invaluable, and I thank all of you for your visits and calls, and for listening to me! I know that many of our members will be going through, or have gone through, something similar, and you will know how much your friends mean in these circumstances.
I hope to see many of you at our reunion in September, when our guest speaker will be Jo Harris of the afPE1 and the Mayor of Dartford will be our guest for lunch. In the meantime, I wish you good health and happiness.
Anne Stuart
1The association for Physical Education
2 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Olympic year reminder:Ann Packer (1963) wins ‘Gold’
Letter from the Editor As it is now countdown time to the Beijing Olympics it seemed fitting to remind ex students of Ann Packer’s “Gold”2 achievement in the Tokyo games (1964). I am sure the College celebrated this win by one of its former students.
The editorial contains a note of disappointment: the lack of news from former students.This is the section immediately turned to on receipt of the Magazine; we want to hear from you! Such absence has given space for last year’s exclusions; the eulogies omitted now have their place. My thanks go to the contributors of these, with an apology that they appear a year on.
Congratulations go to our patron Rachael Heyhoe-Flint on her OBE, awarded this year3.
Sheila Norman’s article, her ‘dream come true’, is concluded; the text is so evocative of Dartford student life - the combination of hard work, the fun and the recognition of being a part of tradition.This is not only Sheila’s memory! The two articles which follow reinforce the impact of Madame Österberg and that of her students – worldwide.
2 Cutting from ‘Telegraph Sport’ (4th March, 2008) 3 Article included in this Magazine; from ‘The Sunday Times Magazine’;April 2008
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 3 The annual award ceremonies remind that these tributes to MBÖ prompt memories – such a heritage to retain; hence the repetition here that your memories, documents and photographs might find their way into the Archive at some juncture – if you can part with them.
Several of the “Dartford” year songs and poems have been included this year; I suspect that some of you will be singing along with your read!
Change is afoot on the Dartford site; it’s goodbye Oakfield, New Allerloo and the Bergman building this summer with the demolition of the ‘new’ swimming pool sometime next year. The ‘old’ pool will also be demolished – it’s still under the floorboards of the Sports Hall which also makes way for the new buildings.With the recent confirmation of an £85 million budget re-development plan, little of today’s campus will be left. However, Kingsfield (to be refurbished – and to be the pivotal building of the campus – no less) will remain along with the cricket pitch and Madame’s tree!
The committee has welcomed Pat Chatters to the post of Registrar on the retirement of Hilary Gunnell.Thank you Hily for all your hard work, and thank you Pat for joining us.
Finally, the news from Mary Hunt4 offers an exceptional insight into the friendships made whilst at College – and still going strong 50 years on – well done the year group of 57.
My thanks go again to Dr Ida Webb5 for her help with initial proof-reading of the Magazine!
Enjoy the read – and the Olympics!
Gill Metcalfe
4 See Letters from Former Students 5 My thanks to Ida – fond memories of Yelding; photograph contributed by Penelope Tuck (Ingle;1960)
4 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Dr Ida Webb at 1st year camp,Yalding, June 1958
The Old Pool 1959: (swimming clinic6 – for children with postural deformities)7
6 Penny Tuck (Ingle; 1960) in the foreground with a pupil 7 See page 20 – ‘A Dream Come True’ lines 22-23
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 5 THE BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION
Saturday 6th September 2008 11 a.m. at Dartford
AGENDA
1. Apologies for absence.
2. President’s remarks.
3. Minutes of the 2007 AGM (to be found in the magazine).
4. Matters arising.
5. Reports:
a. Chairman’s report. b. Secretary’s report. c. Treasurer’s report. d. Benefit Fund report. e. Registrar’s report. f. Archive report. g. The Cricket Pitch Development Committee.
6. Election of Officers of the Executive Committee.
The current officers of the committee are:
President M. Chamberlain Vice President K. Challinor Chairman A. Stuart Secretary J. Ellis Williams Treasurers M. Medland and C. Elliott Committee Members S. Norman B. Barton (Newsletter Editor) H. Gunnell H. Chapman S. Hayes (Benefit Fund) J.Grimsey* (Reunion Organiser) *Due to retire but eligible for re-election
6 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Co-opted Members R. Moon (Archive & Friend of the BÖU) G. Metcalfe (Magazine Editor) B. Lewis P.Chatters (Registrar) N. Izard (Cricket Pitch Development Committee Representative)
The Chairman is due to retire but is eligible for re-election.
Nominations for the Committee should be sent to the Secretary by 29th Aug 08.
7. Appointment of the Auditor.
Dr Jo Harris (Maunsell; 1976) of the afPE will be our guest speaker at the end of the AGM.
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 7 THE BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION MINUTES OF THE AGM HELD ON 1st SEPTEMBER 2007 AT DARTFORD
PRESENT: The following members, former students and friends were present:
M. Chamberlain, K. Challinor, A. Stuart, J. Ellis Williams, M. Toogood, M. Millar, M. Medland, S. Hayes, S. Cutler, B. Barton, H. Chapman, B. Lewis, C. Elliott,A. Brown, E. Cooper, M. Kenney, J. Grimsey, S. Hills, S. Norman, P. Gilliland, W. Newnam, P. Chatters, R. Moon, G. Metcalfe, J. Noble, H. Gunnell, S. Kite, P. Horrex, M. Cowley, R. Fisher, H. Newman.
APOLOGIES: for absence were received from: T. Cutler, R. Heyhoe-Flint, L. Upfold, N. Izard, M. Hayhurst, A.M.Williams, B. Furlong, M.E.Thwaites, Dr. I.Webb, C. Martineau, E.A. Dixon.
PRESIDENT’S REMARKS
Dear Friends,
Thank you for coming to our Annual General Meeting and Reunion today. It is a great delight to be in this lecture hall today.The last time many of us met was in a hospital where I was experiencing the ups and downs of life there as a patient. I am very grateful for all the letters and cards you sent me, and the visits you paid me. I am sure they all helped with my recovery. Frequent phone calls enabled me to keep in close touch with the Vice-President, Chairman and Secretary.
Today there is a special welcome for Rosemary Fisher, honoured former BÖU Chairman and Helen Newman who is well versed in the ideals and traditions of Martina Bergman Österberg and now combines this with a forward looking approach. We are also very glad Sheila Cutler has been able to come with her successor Rosemary Moon and speak about the Archives. Former Chairman Marge Millar has arrived armed with up to date news from Kent. It is good to see committee members here in strength.At lunch time we look forward to meeting Mr Bell, Principal of North West Kent College (NWK8) and Mrs Bell, with seven invited guests. We hope Mr Bell will be able to outline for us his plans for the long term future of his college.
8 NWK: used in this text
8 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 December 13th remains the highlight of my stay in Queen Mary Hospital: that was the day when the brand new sports Hall at Avery Hill was officially opened and named “The Martina Bergman Österberg Hall”. Anne Stuart made an excellent speech at the ceremony and presented Lord Holme, Chancellor of the University of Greenwich, with a portrait of Madame. Later Anne, with committee members, drove from the hospital to my ward to give me a vivid and first hand account of the ceremony. I think we all felt proud that day to see the achievements and traditions of Madame honoured in this way. But the ward staff were almost overwhelmed by the sheer ebullience of these visitors.They took it all in good part and beat a hasty retreat from the ward.
In contrast, the news that NWK College proposed to close the swimming pool on the Kingsfield site in Oakfield Lane filled us with dismay. Immediately the Vice President, Chairman, Secretary and I sent off letters to Mr Bell and the appropriate planning authorities in Dartford. There followed large numbers of letters to the press, editorials in local papers, letters from local clubs and local primary and secondary schools all protesting at the threatened loss of this essential facility. There were demonstrations in the town requesting the continued use of the pool by its many supporters. Feeling was and is running high that the pool should not be destroyed. At the time of writing this, the situation is still fluid but pressure remains keen on Mr Bell and the local authorities to save the swimming pool.
Throughout the year Anne Stuart has continued to provide wise and balanced leadership and works extremely hard on our behalf. All seems in good heart. Our archives are in safe hands; finances are sound; close relations with the University of Greenwich are a welcome feature, the newsletter in the spring and the magazine in late summer provided valuable information and commentaries. Registration matters are up to date. In this connection, I noted with pleasure that students who left college in 1968 have become members of the BÖU and hope to meet them again soon. Lastly, our Reunion organisers have planned a good lunch for us after the AGM. Would you now care to thank our chairman and committee for all they have done for the BÖU during the last 12 months?
Now on a personal note, I am pleased to tell you that Anne Stuart has a new commitment: she has entered into a civil partnership with her long term partner, Sarah. They have been great friends for some 11 years.The ceremony took place at Chatham Registry Office on 21st July 2007. I wish them both many years of happiness together and ask them to accept my love. I invite you to share in my pleasure.
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 9 I now am pleased to hand over to Anne, our excellent Chairman, and wish all of you a rewarding and prosperous 2008.
Margaret Chamberlain
Anne Stuart thanked Margaret Chamberlain for her kind words.
MINUTES OF THE 2006 AGM
The minutes were signed as a correct record.
MATTERS ARISING
There were no matters arising.
10 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
A very warm welcome to you all! A small but select gathering today, as is so often the case after a busy year like 2006. My thanks to Margaret for her warm words, and, on behalf of us all I would like to say how delighted we are that she has recovered enough to be here today. It is 30 years since I left Dartford to go out into the big wide world, and I still consider the time I spent here to be one of the happiest of my life.
Our thanks today go to Malcolm Bell and NWK College for their hospitality today. Malcolm will be speaking to this meeting at noon, when we will have the opportunity to question him about the plans he has for changes to the site, including the swimming pool.
On that point, the latest news from Valmai Jeffrey is that there has been a stay of execution for the pool until December, whilst funding is sought for its refurbishment. Dr Howard Stoate, the MP for Dartford, secured a promise from Sport England for one third of the projected cost in May, and he has been most supportive of everyone’s efforts to retain the Pool for community use in the future. In mid-July there was talk of a new pool being built as part of a Sports Complex in the re-development of the site. I hope we will find out the up to date situation shortly! The action group has been marvellous, and Valmai keeps in touch with Jilly and me regularly. I have a set of copies of some of the correspondence that we have entered into, which I will pass round now.
We have continued to keep Madame’s name and profile high again this year. Our annual awards for Women’s and Girls’ cricket and the Dartford Borough Sports Award for coach of the year were made. The newly reorganised PEA, now the association for PE (afPE) is consulting with us over the continuation of the BÖU/PEA Award and what form that will take.
We are grateful to Ken Challinor for taking on these negotiations and for keeping up our strong links with the profession’s main association. Details are in the magazine.
We have made our annual donation to the upkeep of the cricket pitch, which was again spent on grass seed and fertiliser. There is still no further news on the future of the pitch. Jilly wrote to Dartford Borough Council in June9 .
9 The BÖU has made a further donation of £500 towards the cricket pitch
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 11 You will have seen in the magazine that we have had Madame’s entry in the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography corrected – twice! I am very grateful to Dr. Ida Webb and Sheila Cutler for bringing the errors to my attention and for being instrumental in correcting them.
I have heard from the current Mayor of Dartford, Councillor Sheila East regarding her year’s charities. I hope that we will be able to give her a tour of the Archive rooms this year, as the planned visit for her predecessor last year had to be cancelled, and it was not possible to rearrange it.
Our thanks go again to the University of Greenwich for printing our newsletter and magazine, and to Brenda Barton and Gill Metcalfe for their sterling efforts in producing them respectively. There were problems at the University with the timing, laying out and printing of the magazine. Printing is very costly and consequently we are grateful for their generosity. Gill was also forced to reduce the content of the magazine at the last minute, and there were some very interesting articles that had to be omitted. She is hoping to include them next year.
One small error in the magazine is the placing of Pat Chatters as a member of the Cricket sub-committee. She is actually a co-opted member of the full Committee, and Minute Secretary for the Archive sub-committee. This error will be corrected next year. Our apologies Pat!
Finally, my thanks, as ever, to the committee. Margaret continues to take a great interest in our work, and to give wise council, even as incapacitated as she was this year. I have already mentioned some of Ken’s work, and he too is always available to listen and offer advice. Margaret and Christobel have our Finances well under control, and Sue is running the Benefit Fund very efficiently, with more awards being made this year than any I can remember. Hilary has the register up to date again now and Jan has organised her first reunion very efficiently, thank you. Our thoughts are also with Toni, who has been unable to play as active a part in BÖU affairs this year. Betty has been marvellous in keeping the Archive available to visitors and Rosemary and her archive team are making progress. Jilly remains my right hand woman, and the best Secretary I have ever worked with. This year she has written even more letters, due to the Swimming Pool problem, and still managed to keep on top of all the other business and keep me on the right track. Thank You!!
I hope you all enjoy the rest of the day.
Anne Stuart
12 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 SECRETARY’S REPORT
We are pleased to welcome our guests who will be joining us for lunch today, Malcolm Bell, Principal of NWK College, with his wife Ann. From the University of Greenwich, Linda Cording, Secretary and Registrar, on behalf of Baroness Blackstone, along with Martyn Stephenson and his colleague, Mark Hainy of the Alumni Department. From Dartford Borough Council, Cllr. Ann Allen and Cllr. Patsy Thurlow.
The current situation of the Campus swimming pool has already been mentioned. The development and funding of the buildings at NWK College has been discussed at Committee meetings as well as how we could help to attract funding to refurbish and maintain the swimming pool. Please refer to page 20 in the 2007 magazine. I have been in constant contact with the Swimming Pool Pressure group and have written letters to The NWK College Principal, Mr. Malcolm Bell and his Governors, Dartford Borough Council Planning Officers, Local Councillors, Dr. Howard Stoate and Kate Hoey MP.Anne Stuart and I will continue to liaise with the pressure group and report back any developments.
Rosemary Smith is happy to produce Dartford clothing again for us.We are looking at two possible items, the polar fleece and the polo shirt. As there is always a problem with the late magazine printing and the turn around time needed for orders, it was agreed to place the order form alongside the Reunion form, in the January newsletter ’08. I will liaise with Rosemary. On behalf of members I would like to thank Rosemary Smith and her family for producing our BÖU clothing.
Our BÖU Christmas cards were sent again this year to all our Reunion guests with the addition of The Mayor and the Complimentary list.
I would like to thank Sheila Cutler for informing us about a former student who recently died in August, Joan M. Harrison, (Royle; 1945). She was a lecturer in Sunderland and much involved with swimming and diving; she was also a diving champion. Donations in her memory are invited for the Sunderland Amateur Swimming Club. She was also very much involved with the PEA.
I sent a letter of condolence to the family of Betty Churchouse and a donation of £25 to Macmillan Cancer.
The family of Margaret “Peggy” Pepper have donated items and artefacts to the Archive. I have sent a letter of thanks. It was agreed at our Committee meeting that a “Miss Pepper Collection” would be created.
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 13 The family of Elspeth Cameron has donated a photograph album to the Archive. Elspeth had been a student in the late 1930's and it is a wonderful record of the college and students at that time.
I also received an email from Anne Pascall about her mother, Mrs Elisabeth Sellers (Hardinge-Tyler) who died on 21 January. She believed that her mother was a student between 1935 and 1938.Anne did not become a PE teacher, but turned to farming during the war running her own dairy farm and married Norman Sellers, in 1942. In the 1960’s she became interested in dog breeding and was well known in the dog world for breeding and showing Shih-Tzus. Sadly, in her later years she was handicapped by arthritis and heart difficulties and moved to a nursing home in 2005. A tribute presented at her funeral service described her as ‘a remarkable woman, affectionate and generous but also rigorous in her economy, honesty and directness; her sense of duty shone through; quite a combination!’
I am still waiting for website training from Daniel Stevens at the University Alumni Department.We will only publish names of the Committee and no longer will any personal details be shown on the website.
I received a lovely letter of thanks from Sheila Cutler and it was agreed by the Committee that Sheila’s engraved bowl, made in Suffolk, was an excellent creation and that we would keep details of the design for any future presentations. I urge you all to have a look at the photo and tribute to Sheila on pages 29-33 in your 2007 magazine.
It only leaves me to thank the Chair, Anne Stuart, our President, Margaret Chamberlain and the Executive Committee for their continued support.
Jill Ellis Williams
Anne Stuart thanked Jill for her hard work throughout the year.
14 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 TREASURER’S REPORT
Christobel Elliott presented the report.
On looking at the 2006 Statement of Accounts, which can be found on page 57 of the 2007 magazine, you will see that fortunately we continued to be in relatively good financial health. The surplus of £1163 is not only due in part to the five yearly payment of subscriptions, but also to generous donations. We would like to thank everyone who has kindly made donations for the Archives, Cricket Pitch and General Funds.
You will note we have corrected our omission of 2005 with regard to the non- payment to Dartford Borough Council for the sale of museum books and have paid them all that was owed.
A donation of £500 was again made to NWK College towards the maintenance of the cricket pitch and one was also made for £250 to Dartford Grammar School for Girls towards kit for their netball tour to Spain.
Finally we would like to thank the Chairman and Committee for all their support and advice and Roger Barton, our voluntary auditor,for his advice and guidance and also for auditing the accounts for us. A letter of thanks has been sent to him along with a token of our appreciation.
Margaret Medland & Christobel Elliott
There were no questions from members.
Anne Stuart thanked both Christobel Elliott and Margaret Medland for their very clear accounting.
BENEFIT FUND REPORT
There was a slight mistake in the magazine; we had £2,100 in the fund up to last December. This year we have not had any requests and we are desperate to award money so please spread the word. We are aware that people hear about the fund through word of mouth and money is there to be used. Thank you to the Committee and the Treasurers.
Sue Hayes
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 15 REGISTRAR’S REPORT
The Registrar’s report is in the 2007 magazine on page 54. We have 316 members and have now taken off those members who have not paid their subscriptions. I announce that I will stand down as Registrar as from today.
Hilary Gunnell
Anne Stuart thanked Hilary for all her hard work.
ARCHIVE REPORT
It has been a difficult year for the Archive, as we have gradually got used to the fact that Sheila Cutler was no longer there to lead and guide us.This report is therefore going to be very different from the detailed account, which Sheila used to present to the AGM. I shall attempt to demonstrate that we are undaunted and intend to continue working on ways of ensuring that the Archive is professionally maintained.
We are currently building new foundations. We have established a small sub- committee which has met a couple of times and needs to meet more regularly in the coming year. This has been a period of review and re-assessment, rather than a time of activity and progress. During the coming year we need to establish some practical procedures and we need to identify and delegate tasks which are waiting to be carried out.
There are three areas where we shall be aiming to seize new opportunities. Firstly, we shall be looking at the use of a computerised database system for cataloguing and indexing of items in the Archive. This is a need which was identified by Peter Boreham in his consultancy report dated September 1999 and so progress on this is now well overdue.
Secondly, there is scope for development of the Archive web pages. These were created by myself and Sheila Cutler many years ago and now they need to be reviewed and integrated with other BÖU web pages on the University of Greenwich web site.
Thirdly, we need to address the matter of marketing and publicity if we want to ensure that the Archive remains an active resource, but alongside this we need to be certain that we can cope with the increase usage of the Archive rooms.
Where I work, no meeting is complete without an “actions” sheet, identifying who is responsible for the tasks we have decided. As I said in my opening remarks, this has been a difficult year for the Archive and it has been a very quiet year. We have 16 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 not actually done very much, but this is set to change! In future there will be “actions” – working party days, allocation of jobs and procedures for reporting work done.This time next year we expect to be able to report progress.
Rosemary Moon10
THE CRICKET PITCH DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
As Norma Izard could not attend, Jill Ellis Williams presented the report.
Nothing much has happened recently with the added complication of Richard Watts leaving his post at Dartford Borough Council. Anne Stuart had spoken to Steven Jefferson with regards to the cricket pitch and Norma Izard tried to contact Dartford Borough Council but with no progress. We seem to have come to a standstill. At an Executive Committee meeting it was agreed that I would renew contact with Councillors Patsy Thurlow and Ann Allen and I am happy to say that they are both here at lunch today. Letters were written to Cllr. Patsy Thurlow and Jeremy Kite, Leader of the Council. I have received an acknowledgement of my letter to Jeremy Kite but I am awaiting a fuller feedback. We continue to donate funds towards the maintenance of the cricket pitch.
Jill Ellis Williams
The adoption of reports was proposed by Sheila Norman and seconded by Liz Cooper and they were carried unanimously.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS of the EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Please refer to page 17 in the 2007 magazine. The adoption of Officers was proposed on bloc by Maureen Kenney and seconded by Peggy Gilliland and was carried unanimously and all officers were duly elected.
APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS
Roger Barton is happy to continue.Anne Stuart thanked Roger for his work.
The formal part of the meeting was now closed with a vote of thanks to the Secretary, Jill Ellis Williams.
Anne Stuart thanked everyone for attending.
10 Sheila Cutler was delighted with Rosemary’s report
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 17 The AGM and Reunion will be held next year on Saturday 6th September 2008
The Future Development of the College Campus – proposals outlined
The Principal of NWK College, Mr. Malcolm Bell, gave a presentation on the future development of the College. He outlined the major building work and how this will change the appearance of the campus. The original house will stay and be refurbished/renovated. The cricket pitch will stay where it is with changing room facilities to be housed in Kingsfield. The swimming pool will be demolished. Planning permission for a new pool has been secured but funding the building of it is a major issue11. Discussions are taking place with the Pool Users Group, Sport England, Dartford Borough Council and Kent County Council to try and secure the necessary monies.
As of April 2008, no significant funds have been identified for the building of the new swimming pool. The existing pool will not be demolished before the end of 2009.
Jill Ellis Williams
11 A recent update of the pool is that a new pool does appear on the new plans, however Malcolm indicated that it will probably not be built, irrespective of plans
18 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Bergman Österberg Union Executive Committee 2008
President Margaret Chamberlain Brooklands, Crockenhill Lane, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JL 01322 863407
Vice President Ken Challinor 2 Netherwood Close,The Ridge, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 2RE 01424 751741
Chairman Anne Stuart 4 Copperpenny Drive, Hempstead, Gillingham, Kent, ME7 3DT 01634 366248 E-mail: [email protected]
Hon. Secretary Jill Ellis Williams Hedge End, Old High Road,Yoxford, Suffolk, IP17 3HL 01728 668704 E-mail: [email protected]
Hon.Treasurers Margaret Medland 49 Dene Drive, New Barn, Longfield, Kent, DA3 7JR 01474 704027 E-mail: [email protected]
Christobel Elliott 8 Ingatestone Road,Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 9AL 02085 044387 E-mail: [email protected]
Registrar Pat Chatters 2 Farthingfield, Old London Road, Wrotham,TN15 7DL 01732 883187 E-mail: [email protected]
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 19 Archivist and Friend of the BÖU
Rosemary Moon Campus Learning Services Manager (Avery Hill Campus) University of Greenwich, Bexley Road, Eltham, SE9 2PQ 0208 3319271 / 01689 890716 E-mail: [email protected]
Benefit Fund Secretary
Sue Hayes 24 Foxfield Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 8EF 01689 854306 E-mail: [email protected]
Reunion Organiser Jan Grimsey 30 Coleridge Close, Hitchin, Herts, SG4 0QX 01462 642248 E-mail: [email protected]
Magazine Editor Gill Metcalfe Thrushes Hatch, 33 Gilhams Avenue, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 1QL 02083 938593 E-mail: [email protected]
Newsletter Editor Brenda Barton Burbank, 107 Darenth Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1NJ 01322 225984 E-mail: [email protected]
20 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Committee Members Betty Lewis 18 Rosedene Court, Shepherds Lane, Dartford, Kent DA1 2NP 01322 222927
Hazel Chapman 7 Woodberry Gardens, Finchley, London N12 0HD 02084 454778
Sheila Norman 47 Salehurst Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 8RY 01473 728376 E-mail: [email protected]
Hilary Gunnell 140 Hinton Way, Great Shelford, Cambridge, CB22 5AL 01223 845953 E-mail: [email protected]
Cricket Pitch Development Committee Representative
Norma Izard 31 Pickhurst Rise,West Wickham, Kent BR4 0AB 020 8289 7583 E-mail: [email protected]
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 21 One of Madame’s Girls I mentioned a book about Alice Greene in the last newsletter, with the promise of an extract. I have permission from the editor, John Barham, who is her great nephew, to reproduce this letter from Alice to her much younger sister Helen. Alice was teaching in what is now South Africa when Velda Sturge, newly qualified at Hampstead and sent on her way by MBÖ arrived, as you will see, Miss Sturge made a considerable impression.
Collegiate School Port Elizabeth Sept. 10th. 1893
Dear Nell
Miss Sturge (a new teacher from England) has been a tremendous excitement and whom I think you would quite sure love. She is wonderfully self possessed for 19 but quite simple and unselfconscious. Perhaps her quiet composure results from her being a Quaker. She is short, sturdy and very well looking. There is never any need to ask her how she is. She constantly wears her gymnasium dress, with a skirt slipped over for meals etc. and looks quite enchanting in her short tunic. She has pretty little feet and shapely well developed legs and the sight of her nimble little dapper figure drilling us in the evening after tea is a source of endless amusement and interest to our Kafir servants who stay an hour beyond their usual time to look at her.She is an out and out enthusiast about her profession and we none of us feel that we can play at drill anymore.We are talking about having a parents meeting to see Miss Sturge and to hear her give a few words.The question arose ‘Should Miss Sturge appear in her costume?’ One of the teachers said that she did not think she could appear in public in such a guise – “One always feels so ashamed of one’s legs”.“I don’t see that” said little Miss Sturge calmly,“I know my legs are too fat, but I don’t mind, - they are my legs.”
She brought a lot of apparatus with her and now our Gymnasium is really worth the name. We have rope ladders and rails and ropes and bars and jumping stands and all kinds of things. Miss Sturge swarms up a rope beautifully and fills me with envy. I am determined to do it myself before long. She has brought foils and helmets and jackets for fencing so I hope to get my big wish. It is delightful to see a girl so strong and active as Miss Sturge and yet not one little fraction coarsened or roughened by the long physical training she has been through, She is so particularly calm and
22 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 sensible and free from ordinary woman’s worries and nerves and fads that one cannot help putting it down in part to her training. I wonder if you would like it.
(More follows in the letter about other matters).
As we know, Helen Greene decided she would like it. She qualified from Dartford in 1900 and became Principal in 1917. As for Velda Sturge, Madame Österberg would surely have been satisfied.
The book is called ‘Alice Greene – Teacher and Campaigner’ – Letters edited by John Barham. There is not a great deal about Dartford in it but I found it very interesting on many other levels.You might too.
Sheila Cutler
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 23 Archival Hockey - Visit to Madame Österberg’s College It was a party of 15, consisting of – Mr. Badley, Miss Martin, Miss Hamilton, Mr. Unwin, Helen, Myra, Amy, Barbara, Peggy Jacks, Sibyl, Margaret, Alix, Norah, Isabel Ritchie and Phyllis Lapthorn – who left Bedales early on the morning of Saturday, November 23rd, to catch the 8.43 am at Petersfield, their destined end being the Swedish Drill Training College, belonging to Martina Österberg, Dartford, Kent.The train arrived at Waterloo 10.43 am, leaving just half an hour before the train on the SE line left for Dartford.There we arrived only about twenty minutes late, which is surely an improvement for that famous railway line about which it has been said “of all things that creep, &c.,” and found two of the Amazonian Damsels waiting to meet us with a brake.
Arrived at Kingsfield (the name of the building) we were most kindly welcomed, and each one of us was immediately looked after by a member of the college, who showed us the way.
Dinner was the first item on the programme, in a very beautiful hall. After this a speedy change and a rush for the hockey field, where the match was played. Our team was as follows: Isobel Barbara Peggy Jacks Alix Margaret Helen Sibyl Norah Myrah Phyllis Lapthorne Amy
We were of course badly beaten, 11-1, but we did not expect any other result, games and drill being, so to speak, our opponents’ calling; besides they had launched their strongest team against us. Perhaps memories of a beating they received at the Old Bedales, when Mr. Powell and Mr. Girdlestone were playing, still lingered in their minds.We were then shown Lacrosse and Basketball displays, and while the students were changing, Marjory showed us all around the grounds.
Then came the event to which I think all of us had most looked forward – the drill display.This display was given by the senior students (i.e., those not in their first year) in their magnificent gymnasium, and we saw them in their element.All in their blue tunics, so spotlessly neat, with their perfectly shaped bodies and erect bodies, moved as though one and the same person. Surely it would be difficult to find such order and discipline anywhere else. But with all their physical strength, grace and symmetry was never lacking in their movements; this was particularly to be seen in some of the dances at the end of the drill.
Meanwhile – as ever – tempus fugit, and we had to wildly rush for our tea and then for the brake and then home again, a very enjoyable day being over only too soon. 24 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 BEDALES CHRONICLE12 (No.6,Vol. 1; December 14th., 1907)
A Dream Come True: Part 213
During term time we were allowed late night passes - I think these were restricted - which enabled us to stay out until 10.30-11.00 pm.We were allowed to go out at the weekend; however, on Saturday morning we had teaching practice - either games, swimming or dance.This took place at college. If you were a team member there were matches in the afternoon then we had the evening free. On Saturdays the time was extended to 12.00 pm. However, for this privilege we had to sign the Leave Book before the previous Thursday. This was kept in the office under the watchful eye of Miss Amies.When we returned we had to report to the staff on duty and duly sign in. Many a student will remember the late night run up Oakfield Lane. A Saturday evening in town was a welcome break. We would meet up at Lyons Strand Corner House for a meal and then go to the theatre. This was achieved by those students who were not involved in matches going up to town early and booking a stool for two shillings outside the theatre; this would ensure a seat in the Gods.The evening would cost us ten shillings (old money!).
There was virtually no free time during the day. If by any chance someone was free she would cycle into Dartford armed with a student shopping list and then do a Lance Armstrong in order to be back in time for the next lecture. Included in our equipment list were pink Kostos bust bodices (bras) and black/navy blue silky knickers; these formed standard clothing for gymnastics during our first term.This enabled the staff to scrutinise our body movement and musculature for imperfections. I fear that this would not be permissible these days but we did not suspect the staff of any ulterior motive!
Part of our programme included working in clinic.The patients were local children with postural deformities.We each had four youngsters in the two hour session. This was run under the supervision of Miss Kennedy, Miss Pepper and Miss Page in the small gym, but on warm days, whenever possible, we worked using the mats on the grass outside.
To support our anatomy and physiology study we went to King’s College in the Strand for dissections.A medical student would produce whatever part of the body we asked for drenched in formalin and we would get to work unraveling the
12 Contribution by Ida Webb 13 Part 1 appears in the 2007 Magazine
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 25 mysteries of muscles, blood vessels and ‘nerves’. As part of our anatomy and physiology examinations we had vivas at King’s College Hospital and at St Thomas’ Hospital (Westminster Bridge).
After supper at the end of the first term the first years were summoned to Miss Alexander’s flat.We were led to believe this was a talk on the highs and lows of our performance. Subsequently we learnt that a summons at the end of term meant a poor review of your efforts with the possibility of ‘not up to standard’ and broken dreams. On this occasion she had a very serious expression and spoke with carefully chosen words.We sat waiting expectantly for the big crunch when after about ten minutes we heard carol singing in the distance. The volume gradually increased and we had one ear to the window and the other trying to concentrate on what Miss Alexander was saying. Eventually she suggested that we all go over to the window.What greeted us was the most amazing sight. All the second and third years were in college cloaks decorated with holly and ‘snow’ and with lanterns and torches of all descriptions lashed to lacrosse sticks. It was a magical scene and one which I am sure will remain with many of us for a lifetime.
One of the highlights of the summer term was Old Students’ weekend. As accommodation was offered the first years were asked to vacate their rooms by camping out.We put up tents on the grass bank of the cricket pitch backing on to the tennis courts. If it was a particularly fine night we would just take our sleeping bags and sleep under the stars.
The 52’s were the first students to enjoy - or otherwise - a two-day camp.This was to fill in time after our final examinations had been completed.The weather was sunny and warm and many a skill was learnt in outdoor food care and using sticks for a fire. For some this was a new experience, sleeping under canvas and cooking on a camp fire.The old hands looked on benignly!
In the winter we always went to the March International Hockey match in London - initially at the Oval and then at Wembley.
In the summer we were given a free day on the first Wednesday of Wimbledon to see top class players in action - Ken Rosewall, Lew Hoad, Rod Laver, Frank Sedgeman, Louise Brough, Doris Hart to name but a few.
One of the highlights of the summer term was the annual ball. For those who had no partners an invitation was sent to the Officer’s Mess at Chatham Barracks. Of course no men were allowed above the ground floor. Sheila (Smith) and I took advantage of the opportunity and accepted an invitation to Chatham barracks for a Scottish dancing evening. We danced non-stop thinking ourselves to be in the
26 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 peak of fitness.We returned at midnight only to find the next morning our lower extremities felt worse than the proverbial ‘first year leg’ and we could hardly walk.
Halloween was another first year event.We all wore blindfolds and were escorted by our seniors to experience the horrors they had prepared for us using aural, tactile, and sensory stimuli. It was fun but it did not pay to be squeamish!
Of course we were not short of ideas when it came to making our own entertainment. I remember when we were unexpectedly given a free day and a group of us felt we should mark the occasion. We decided on a challenge. I suggested that we should form pairs and try to get to Dover and back without using public transport; we had to be back for our 5.30 pm lecture and provide evidence that we had reached our destination.After walking, hitching and running Heather (Ward) and I were first back and sat smugly in class as the four other couples apologetically entered the room at intervals.
I also remember decking out Miss Pollard’s Austin Ruby at the time of ‘The Britain Can Make It Exhibition’ and somehow getting it on the stage of the gym prior to her lecture. She did not notice when she walked in and wondered why our shoulders were being vigorously exercised until she turned round.The good sport she was there was no punishment except a promise extracted that it would be returned to its rightful place in the front drive.
We were fortunate since we were the first year to reach over fifty students so there was a different ethos; it was a much closer community and tradition was something which we cherished.
I started with a dream but after three years college came to an end, however the dream lived on. I am greatly indebted to Dartford for making it a dream fulfilled.
Sheila Norman 1952
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 27 BÖU’s Patron Rachael Heyhoe – Flint OBE: in The Times Interview: Katherine Hill
28 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Dartford Borough Sports Awards 2008 The Sports Awards, celebrating the sporting achievements of 2007, were held on 26th March 2008 at Princes Park Stadium, Dartford.The BÖU was represented by Betty Lewis and Pat Chatters.
We were greeted by the Sports Development Officer, Stephen Jefferson, who showed us round the very impressive complex and the evening was hosted by Matt Davison from BBC Radio Kent.
Councillor Patsy Thurlow, the Portfolio Holder for Sports and Arts, gave a reflection on the sporting achievements in Dartford in 2007 and it became evident that some of the winners of the awards were hoping to be involved in the 2012 Olympics, particularly in Judo,Trampolining and Cycling.
The BÖU Award went to Shaun Scolding, a young man who spends a lot of his time coaching young footballers successfully in Swanscombe. He gave a short speech saying how much he enjoyed working with the youngsters and was thrilled to have won the award.
The evening finished with Jeremy Kite, the Leader of the Borough council giving a short speech saying how important it was to support all those who participated in the Borough’s opportunities. Photographs were taken and a buffet followed.
We thoroughly enjoyed our evening and it is pleasing to know that Madame’s history is still remembered in the borough.
Pat Chatters
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 29 Bergman Österberg Cricket Trophy Emma Plush (17) from Waldeslade was last year’s winner of the Bergman Österberg Cricket Trophy (presented October 07); the award is made for the best individual performance for the year. Emma, a pupil at Rochester Girls’ Grammar School, plays for Hartley Invicta Cricket Club. She has been in the Kent County age groups for 11 years and is now a member of the Kent Senior squad.
Gill Metcalfe
The Bergman Österberg Trophy: awarded annually to the Dartford Coach of the Year
Pat Chatters (BÖU) with Sean Scolding,Award Winner, and the Mayor of Dartford
30 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 The Dartford Song/Poetry Collection14
Year of 1964
Allerloo Song
Chorus Oh no, oh no, don’t let the rain come down Oh no, oh no, don’t let the rain come down Oh no, oh no, don’t let the rain come down My roof’s got a hole in it and I might drown Oh yes, my roof’s got a hole in it and I might drown. 1. Oh there was a little house on the edge of Dartford Heath It had roses on the wall and mushrooms underneath It was part of Madame’s college and twelve students lived therein And for twelve weeks of each term, they lived there quite free from sin. Chorus 2. Oh the warden of this hostel name of which is Allerloo Rings up on odd occasions to ask what is to do Discovers there’s a party in the third years’ room above And says - la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la. Chorus 3. There’s six first years and three seconds and three thirds to keep the peace And a cleaner who’s called Edie, who never seems to cease She natters all the morning when we’re trying hard to sleep And disrupts that lovely peace that the third years want to keep. Chorus 4. Oh the liver’s - out below us are a very motley crew With coffee on the perk on the boil the whole day through There’s a dartboard on the wall and a window for a door Through which with great abandon the water it doth pour. Chorus
14 Further song/poetry contributions invited
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 31 5. Then there’s Jen and Rita Naylor who live upstairs here with us They always are so quiet and they never cause a fuss But as next year’s Senior student our Rita will be far Away on second corridor where she will be the star. Chorus 6. All are gathered here ‘cept Edie who is far away in Spain And with a strawberry supper we’ll do honour to her name Of this broken down old hostel which will never be the same Without the beds which we have loved since the first day we came. Chorus
Ode to Allerloo
Oh Allerloo Can I compare thee to a stately ‘ome? Nay - thou hast the age but not the structure Hast character, but thy walls are punctured. To protect within said walls ‘Tarpaulin’ was our fervent call. Forthwith the LCC sent men To stop a flood in Hilly’s den. Sweet Allerloo. And now what is to be thy fate? Fifty livers-out to the present date. Thy walls are thin, thy walls are crumbling Rumour hast that thou art tumbling. We know we’ve helped thee on thy way By hectic games and sprightly play. Now we look to thee with sorrow Cement we have to beg or borrow So that those who come tomorrow May with safety dwell within Sweet Allerloo. We know we are the last to sleep Though many others thou hast had to keep. So here we are to do thee homage ‘The Stately Home’ within our college. Farewell, farewell, sweet Allerloo With much affection from us to you.
Anon
32 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Allerloo (Tune: Immobile)
1. Oh the place is Allerloo,Allerloo Oh the place is Allerloo,Allerloo Oh the place is Allerloo And you’ve all lived here too So you know why we’re all blue,Allerloo. Chorus 2. Oh the warden is Miss Carter,Allerloo Oh the warden is Miss Carter,Allerloo Oh the warden is Miss Carter And she’s thought of as a tarter Having lived here we all know that it’s not true. Chorus 3. Now you all know our Marg, yes you do Now you all know our Marg, yes you do Now you all know our Marg She’s a genius when in charge Seems she’s almost hypercharged by Allerloo. Chorus 4. Oh the walls are thick and thin in Allerloo Oh the walls are thick and tin in Allerloo Oh the walls are thick and thin And the rain keeps flooding in Even pours in when you’re sitting on the loo. Chorus 5. There’s a married woman living in Allerloo There’s a married woman living in Allerloo There’s a married woman here But there ain’t no room for him and her Shame there ain’t no married quarters in here too. Chorus 6. They’re going to pull it down our Allerloo They’re going to pull it down our Allerloo Oh they’re going to pull it down The best hostel in the ground And we hope it won’t fall down before they do. Chorus
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 33 Allerloo 1960
1965 Leavers’ Year Song
Sung to: The Battle Hymn of the Republic/John Brown’s Body
1. Dartford College down in Kent is just the place to be, We all came here to study to be teachers of PE; We’d thought we study gym & games and … Cos children learn through play Chorus Glory, glory what a hell of a way to die, Even if we hate the life, we’ll always have a try To do our best to qualify as teachers of PE; So we can join the NUT Chorus 2. Early in the morning is a welcome unawares To the sounds of whispers and the feet upon the stairs, Get Up, get out of bed and you think there’s nothing wrong at all Cos the smoke goes up the chimney just the same. Chorus 3. Our gymnastics lectures are the highlight of the week, We never take a rest and woe betide us if we speak, Our bones may ache, our … and our muscles may be strong But it’s such a lovely feeling when you hit that ball.
34 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Chorus 4. We have aches & pains and moans and groans and troubles by the store We have to go to sister and then get sent back for more Bandages for bruises and a plaster for a sprain and There’s a touch of infra red to put you right again. Chorus 5 Memories are softly blowing … grand, But we prefer the music of our own percussion band, We bang the drum with which …. But she must realise that the acoustics are all wrong. Chorus 7. A dash of Pepper is essential for Anatomy, But we must make mention of our Physiology, We … and … and … profession activity But Foreign Bodies must be out by nine. Chorus
Year Members
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 35 Dartford Progression (inspired by a memorable remark made by a member of staff)
They came up to Dartford so eager and naïve They know how to vault and they know how to dive Whatever was set in the set text books they’ve read it And passed all their subjects in School Cert with credit They’ve been captains of games and heads of their schools They’ve first broken and then they’ve enforced all the rules But they all must be told as they unpack their trunk If they don’t stretch their feet in the first year they’re sunk
Before very long they discover with groans That life consists mainly of tables and bones With, for light variation, the habits of lice Or supply and demand in relation to price They send frantic appeals for more clothes to Mama For the extra ten coupons don’t go very far Their blouses are faded, their socks have all shrunk If they don’t stretch their feet in the first year they’re sunk
At length these poor overworked, under clothed creatures Emerge in the sun fully qualified teachers They’re top of the world and they do what they please For to get them, Headmistresses fall on their knees They’ve left all their tests and their lectures behind But let them be wary for still they may find Because of the oceans of cocoa they’ve drunk If they don’t stretch their feet in the first year they’re sunk
Constance Braithwaite (1947)
36 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Dartford – Links The forthcoming October ’08 publication,‘Representing the Women’s Land Army’ (author Gill Clarke)15 includes entries of two people with long associations with the Dartford campus: Joan Cowderoy and Helen Bentwich.
Mention the name of Joan Cowderoy16 to any former Dartford Student/staff member from 1947 onwards and the immediate figure of a tall imposing silver- haired woman comes to mind. Everyone knew her; she was the woman in the potting shed; the gardener with the very deliberate stride in her walk; the person who produced bunches of the most exquisite smelling sweet peas and other such flowers which appeared all around College – inside and outside, throughout her 23 years of service. Joan is now 96 years old!
Prior to her appointment, from 1939–1945 Joan had been a member of the Women’s Land Army; hence her inclusion in the book. Joan kept diaries throughout this period and the records that she made have been referenced in several publications through contributions made by Gill Clarke. Gill has also used quotes from Joan’s diary in this, her latest book to accompany an exhibition,“Representing the Women’s Land Army”.
Helen Bentwich17 was a member of the Governing Body of DCPE from 1961 – 64. She had joined the WLA in 1917;there is also reference to her contribution in the impending book.
The Barbe Gallery (St Barbe Museum, Lymington) is hosting the exhibition curated by Gill from 18th October 2008–10th January 2009.18
Gill Metcalfe
15 Gill Clark has served as an International Umpire (Hockey), and umpired at three Olympic Games; 1992 (Barcelona); 1996:Women’s Final (Atlanta) & 2000 (Sydney) 16 Joan was appointed to Dartford in 1947 and retired in 1970 17 See entry for Helen Bentwich in the ‘Oxford Dictionary of National Biography’ (2004) Vol 5 p 307 - 308 18 Gill will be providing gallery talks on 7th November and 5th December which are open to the public, and at a special day for Land Girls 20th November from 14.00 hours
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 37 The BÖU/PEA Award – latest news The association for Physical Education (afPE) has inaugurated a three - tier award structure, and has made its first three awards.The new scheme has been circulated to universities, and the afPE is waiting to see what emerges, in the meantime it is setting up award panels on an “ad hoc” basis.
At the last meeting in April, the BÖU Committee considered the news from the afPE and went on to discuss some possibilities for the BÖU’s continuing involvement in the provision of physical education awards. Further discussion is scheduled for the next committee meeting in October.
Ken Challinor Letters from Former Students [Some of this material is not available to view online] Dartford 1957 50th Anniversary Reunion The first photos we have, from a Dartford Reunion, were taken in 1977 when we celebrated our 20th Anniversary.After that we gathered at College, in September, every five years until 2002. Fearing that age was catching up on us, and having established many friendships over the years, we decided in the future to meet annually in early October. Organised by different people in different parts of the country – usually at National Trust Property or a Stately Home – we have met for coffee, lunch, news swopping and much laughter. Some times smaller groups have extended this get-together to include a few days away with husbands or to stay with an old student living locally.
2007 was 50 YEARS ON so required something similar but also longer and special. Joy Adams and Jenny Herten, both living in Somerset within a few miles of each other, agreed to organize and host this event – between them they seemed to be able to offer limitless beds – and how well they did this.
On 2nd October, 24 of us met for coffee in the NT Restaurant at Stourhead followed by lunch in a private room at the Spread Eagle Pub on the estate. So much talk but we did pause, momentarily, to cut a special anniversary cake decorated with the College badge, and to drink the health of Dartford 1957. After a lovely walk around the lake at Stourhead, we dispersed (briefly) to all join up again at Judy’s house for drinks, before dinner provided by a local caterer.The choice of venue was perfect as Judy had a room large enough to seat us all, plus 4 wine waiter husbands, at one long table.
38 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 It was a splendid occasion and a great success, especially as it gave us plenty of time for longer, worthwhile conversations with most people, and we do thank Judy and Joy for all their hard work and enthusiasm. Despite passing such a significant milestone, we decided that we wanted to continue meeting annually and hope to gather in North Yorkshire on 30th September or 1st October 2008.
In 1957 after a particularly difficult session with Miss Alexander, she concluded by saying to me, “Miss Wigg, you’re very lucky to have such good friends”. She was right. I wonder if she would be surprised to find us still enjoying that friendship after 50 years.
Mary Hunt (Wigg; 1957) Senior Student
Dartford “57” at Stourhead (October 2007); Mary Hunt 2nd from the right
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 39 A Letter from Mac
I enclose for your interest a letter from “Mac”19 written to me in 194620 . Quite a memory I have of travelling to London complete with all my games kit and equipment plus of course a complete change of underwear and butter and sugar!
I believe that I was ‘runner-up’ for the scholarship – the maths tests let me down – I was absolutely hopeless – no idea at all. Fortunately I was awarded a West Riding Major Scholarship for PE.
Margaret Leighton (Bowles; 1949)
19 A similar letter would have been received by Sue Norman prior to joining College ‘A Dream Come True’ 20 Margaret was a contibuter to the 2007 Magazine; see page 24
40 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 The Year of “58” – reminder of the '50 years on' Reunion [This material is not available to view online]
Mrs Joyce Fleuriot (Ingham) sent in the “Year” photograph just to remind her Dartford Year of the wonderful ‘50 years on’ reunion.The reunion was held at the home of Mrs Weston-Smith (Cannter) in Lapworth Park,Warwickshire.
Back row (l-r): Joyce Fleuriot (Ingham), Mr Weston-Smith, Valerie Weston-Smith (Cannter), Joyce Brooks (Nuttall), Pat Tanner, Ethel Arkin (Norton), Barbara Platt (Crampton).
Front row (l-r): Sue Bingham, Sheila Hagenhofer (Ramsbotham),Butterfield (Wear), Jean Wills (Miller; Senior student).
Audrey Sharpley (Mercer) and Sandy Turvin (Simpson), (not in the photo) also joined in with the celebrations.
Joyce Fleuriot/Gill Metcalfe
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 41 OBITUARIES
Jean Mary Lorimer21 (Dunlop; 1925)
Born 13th July 1904 Simla, North of Delhi. Died 27th July 2007 in her own home at Seal, Sevenoaks, Kent.
Jean was educated at St. Georges in Edinburgh and Sherborne in Dorset. She trained at the Bergman Österberg College (1925) and taught in the 1920’s at Harrogate Ladies College and then at Westonbirt in Gloucestershire. Later in the 40’s and 50’s she taught at St. Hilary’s School at Sevenoaks where she was a Governor.
She was athletic, playing Lacrosse for Scotland in the 1923-27 period, as well as playing golf and tennis.
Towards the end of the 1920’s, she made a solo tour of Eastern Europe, particularly Romania, which made a long-standing impression on her.
She married on 3rd Oct 1931 at St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh to Robert William Berr Dunlop. Robert was later to become Senior Partner and Chairman of the Walter Dunlop Group (formerly Duncan Bros of Calcutta). She had a son Alastair born in 1933 and a daughter born in 1935 and had four Grandchildren and five Great Grandchildren. Her husband Robert died in 1980 aged 91. Her cousin was the children’s writer Mrs. Molesworth (Louisa Robertson).
After her husband’s death she travelled widely in Europe and visited her son and family in Scotland 2-3 times a year.
She kept very fit through daily exercises. Her memory for relations and connections, friends and events was formidable. She was a “people” person. She never sought luxuries, ate and drank little. She broke her hip at 98 and had it mended successfully.
She was a realistic person, not given to nostalgia. She always looked ahead.
Jean was a past Ladies Captain of the Wildenesse Golf Club and the Seal Mother’s Club.
Her life spanned the zenith, the twilight years and ending of the Indian Empire.
Mr.Alastair Dunlop22
42 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 Jean Mary Dunlop (Lorimer) in action at Richmond (1925) pictured centre (light tunic) playing Lacrosse for Scotland against England
Trevor Roper23 - What can I say about my great friend of over 50 years?24
I first met Trevor in September 1950 at Worcester Teacher Training College. We were in the same Study Group for Maths, English and Basic PE - Anatomy and Physiology. How it came about I don’t know but seven of us became very good friends and this friendship still lasts although the seven of us are now four.
Trevor was liked and respected by everybody.Think about this - you can respect somebody but you don’t really have to like them - Trevor was respected and liked. He was modest about his abilities although it was immediately obvious that he was an excellent games player - in fact he was one of the finest games players that I have ever met - with a wonderful eye for the ball. We learned that at Grammar School his Head Teacher couldn’t tolerate a round ball. Not sure whether he confiscated them or destroyed them but Trevor turned out to be a first class rugby full back. In the army he played soccer and coming to Worcester he immediately became the first team centre half and in our second year he was our obvious captain. How good was he? Well Leicester City and Cardiff City wanted him.
23 Also see BÖU Magazine 2007 24 Eulogy delivered at Trevor’s funeral 21st December 06
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 43 Colleges and Universities measure their games ability against Loughborough who are regarded as the best. In our two years at Worcester we beat them three times and drew once.
With a cricket bat he tended to hit everything in that arc between square leg and back over the bowler’s head and by the time that opposing captains realised that they needed no fielders on the offside Trevor would often have 30 to 40 runs to his name.
Trevor threw a very good javelin. I well remember an Athletics Meeting at College against St Paul’s, Cheltenham and Hereford College.We got off the coach after an away cricket match and Trevor was called over - the javelin competition was well underway. He asked me to hold his coat and tie and proceeded to throw this long pointed thing quite a bit further than anyone else.
One thing that I never did find out about Trevor. A few days after every soccer match his filthy dirty soccer shirt would appear on a chair beautifully laundered, ironed and folded. I often asked him how this was managed.With a wry smile he would always say,“If I told you, you would know wouldn’t you?”
After our two years at Worcester Trevor went on to Loughborough for a third year and after that he stayed to teach in the Birmingham area with Peter McLauchlan who had been at Worcester with us. They played Rugby for Birmingham - a top class side and Trevor won representative honours with them.
In later years I often asked Trevor why he didn’t take up golf - I’m sure that with his eye for a ball he would have made the Ryder Cup Team.
Trevor was always proud of his Welsh background - and rightly so. He came from No. 5 Moy Road in Aberfan where he lived with his mother.Trevor’s father had died when Trevor was still a boy.Trevor’s sister Betty and her husband Ron lived nearby and their daughter Carol is here today.
In the half term break of autumn 1950 Trevor took three of us to stay at Moy Rd where his mother received us right royally.What a lovely person she was. Uncle Evan took us to the Miner’s Club for a pint and we heard the mountain ponies knocking over the dustbins looking for food in the night and we saw the drams overhead taking the waste from the mine and dumping it on the mountainside above Aberfan.
On Saturday afternoon we went to see a Welsh League Soccer Match. CAROL - I have a good memory but my Welsh pronunciation isn’t very good. Could it have
44 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 been TRODEREW (spelling) or PENTROBACH (spelling)?? I remember that match - we thought that we were hard!
Teaching at a boys’ school in Birmingham Trevor met Ann who was teaching in the girls’ school. By then Alice and I were married (we met at Worcester).
Of course we went to Ann and Trevor’s wedding at Loughton near Potters Bar.We travelled down with Geoff and Kath Berry. Geoff was Trevor’s room mate at Worcester in our second year. Geoff had a Lanchester car with an 8inch hole in the floor. He told me to keep my foot over the hole to keep the draught out.
In the next few years along came Keith and Martin - two fine sons who have been a credit to Ann and Trevor.
Trevor had loved Worcester and we always felt that he wanted to work in a college.That opportunity came along when he was appointed to Dartford College. One young lady who came to work with me up in Lancashire said that she had been to Dartford College. I mentioned that I knew Mr.Trevor Roper and her eyes lit up. She paid glowing testament to Trevor both as a lecturer and as a person who would give any amount of his time to any problems experienced by students. Students always know who to turn to when help is needed.
As the years went by we met quite regularly. Alice and I would meet Trevor and Ann and Keith and Martin in Nottingham, and later at Dartford College, Higham and Strood.They would come up to the wilds of Lancashire and we had caravan holidays together in France and winter breaks in Tenerife.
For the last two years our contacts have been rather limited.We last saw Trevor after Keith’s wedding.We did speak regularly on the phone when we would sort out the problems of the world and most of to-day’s politicians.And now that Trevor has gone and I know that I have lost one of the best friends that any man can have.
Don Smith
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 45 Eileen Taylor – “1st” England Hockey Coach
Eileen Taylor 1915 - 2006 (Dartford; 1936)25
Today we give thanks for a truly remarkable life. This gathering represents the extraordinary variety of Eileen’s achievements and interests - with friends from Church, School, College, Hockey Associations, The National Trust, The Natural History Society, the Camera Club, the Stop Stansted Expansion Campaign, and friends and neighbours who recently have supported her at home and, if all the friends she has made all around the world were here today, we should need another hall in which to seat them! Have you ever seen Eileen’s address book? That says it all.
I cannot dismiss 91 years in a few lines: this is a life which deserves a full record. Eileen was born in 1915.The family moved from Maldon to Bishop’s Stortford in 1922, where her parents opened the well-known stationer’s shop C&P Taylor, which some of us will remember was next to the old Phoenix Cinema in Potter Street. In 1925, Eileen went to the school revered by many of us - Herts and Essex High School - and along with her elder sister Dorothy was a member of Hart House. Her obvious talent in sport soon took her along a path which was to influence the greater part of her life. On leaving school in 1933, she won a place at the prestigious Dartford College of Physical Education, where she trained as a physical education teacher.After college, Eileen first taught in secondary education, then realised that she wanted to train adults to teach. She moved into higher education, becoming a lecturer at Dunfermline College of Physical Education in Scotland.
25 Eulogy delivered at Eileen’s funeral by Brenda Coleshill (England Hockey International 1969)
46 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 As a rising star in women’s hockey, she played for Herts,The East of England and finally achieved the ultimate goal: she was selected to play for England as a full back. A coach load of us from school proudly went to The Oval to see her play for her country in 1947.Then a unique opportunity came her way: the All England Women’s Hockey Association created a new post, that of National Coach, and Eileen was appointed in 1948 as the first holder of that important position.Then followed five years of continuous travel all around the country, teaching thousands of hockey coaches, students and schoolgirls. Her enthusiasm and skill, meticulous preparation and precise delivery of her subject, did so much along with the two books which she published, to raise the standard of teaching women’s hockey in this country. She served for very many years on the All-England Coaching Sub-Committee.Also, she was invited several times to coach in South Africa,including the Springboks, and all over Australia.
On holiday in this country, there was always plenty of walking, camping and climbing. During all her travels she made so many friends - and now you see why that address book is full to overflowing!
In 1953, Eileen was appointed to the Physical Education Department of Avery Hill College in Eltham, where she became a Senior lecturer and also Warden of Mountfield, one of the residential houses. Here she cared for the welfare of many young students and one of the recent parties, which marked her 90th birthday, was attended by thirty of her past students who have kept in touch over all the intervening years.
When Eileen retired (though the word “retirement” was unknown to her, as it signalled a period of increased activity), she moved back into Bishop’s Stortford in 1975, to share the new house in Warwick Road with her sister,Dorothy.There was a strict division of household duties: Dorothy,the chemist, loved experimenting and she did the shopping and the cooking, while Eileen created a lovely garden. She was also in charge of the housework, which I think appealed to her far less! She was keenly interested in photography and enjoyed the challenges of the Camera Club. She loved the natural world, enriched by her contacts with the Natural History Society and The National Trust. Eileen held the important post of President of the East Anglian Women’s Hockey Association and for years produced a newsletter for past members.
After Dorothy’s death, four years ago, Eileen, at almost 90, successfully took on the running of the house, with Donna giving such devoted long-term support in recent years. Sakina helped in the house and Jane in the garden. It was the first time that Eileen had had to cook for herself, so, what did she do? She took cookery lessons. Far from daunted, she rose to the whole challenge - and still kept in touch with her
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 47 friends, often writing cards at midnight and into the early hours. She also made time to collect the litter in Warwick Road on her walks back from town!
Following in the great tradition of her family, who were great travellers, Eileen had been round the world and visited many countries. If you think you are well- travelled consider this: in her 90th year, Eileen spent a week on a canal long-boat, made a visit to Newcastle and Scotland, where she walked on Cairngorm to see her sponsored reindeer on the mountainside, she went to New Zealand for a fortnight and to South Africa for a wedding. She made countless visits to Kent, the Essex coast, Suffolk, Lancashire and Devon, often using the Tube in London and carrying a rucksack and a shoulder bag.When I asked how she was getting to the station, she replied robustly,“My dear, I’ve got two legs”. She had planned to go to Australia this year.This is truly amazing and breathtaking by any standard, I’m sure you will agree!
Eileen had a deep commitment to her fellow human beings and was very kind and thoughtful. She was passionate about world poverty and a fairer sharing of the world’s resources, especially for those in deprived circumstances, whether at home or abroad. She had been an organiser and collector for Christian Aid and had assisted at The King’s Arms for disadvantaged young people in the town. She felt very keenly about The Stop Stansted Expansion Campaign and walked the nearby roads selling The County Calendar and campaign Christmas cards. A lovely Observer photograph of her, entitled “Our Own Calendar Girl”, delighted her - though I do wonder whether she wholly approved the connection!
Eileen knew her own mind and took an intense interest in whatever she undertook. She was decisive, forthright, positive and self-disciplined.At 90, and not so long after her second operation, she set herself the personal challenge of walking the four miles home from her beloved Hatfield Forest, with gardener, Jane for company. Having walked the 200 mile Pennine Way shortly after her first hip operation, this recent walk would have seemed possible to her. When I congratulated her, she said, “You can DO whatever you WANT to do!” She had wanted to do the return four miles! What courage, strength, commitment and determination.
Eileen’s spiritual home was The Baptist Church. In addition to Sunday worship, she regularly attended the Prayer and Bible Study house groups and helped with the Toddlers and Co. The pattern of her daily living was, “Take my life and let it be, consecrated, Lord, to Thee.” In the words of the old hymn, her deep Christian faith was “an oaken staff”. It shone through every difficult or uncertain situation and she always spoke of “God’s timing”. It gave her the will to overcome, with great
48 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 fortitude, several serious health problems during her life. On our many journeys to hospital before Christmas, I was aware of the great inner strength with which she faced major surgery and recently, her final illness. She was nursed with loving care by the staff at The Herts and Essex Hospital.We give thanks that her suffering is over and that she is now at peace.
For her 90th birthday celebrations last year, her flower-decked house, full of cards and balloons, with Eileen surrounded by well-wishers, said it all: it showed how well-loved and respected she was by her many friends. They said, “Eileen is an inspiration to us all”. I am sure we agree with that.
Brenda Coleshill
Joyce Tricker (Ford; 1937)
Joyce Tricker died on August 1st, 2007 aged 91 years. Joyce and her sister Audrey were both students at Dartford, though Audrey, being four years younger, attended from 1938 – 1941, and thus followed in her sister’s footsteps.
Joyce taught for 9 years full time until her marriage (1948) and then continued with some part time work until the family came along; her main teaching was at Wolverhampton High School where she was held in high esteem and well loved. Two of her former pupils, from those days, had still kept in contact with her! She leaves a son, John, and daughters Rosamund and Mary, who in turn have their own children – now adults. Whilst at College Joyce made a life-long friendship with Isabel Ashton (Green), who played International Lacrosse for England. Isabel went to Canada but their friendship was maintained throughout the years. Such was the strength of College friendships.
Audrey Ford speaks highly of her sister and of her sister’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who have been most supportive of her. During her first term at College she took part in the film “18 Girls and a Horse”; her photograph, which she has kindly donated to the Archive, appears on page 38 of last year’s copy.
Both sisters have been regular contributors to the Magazine with recent articles in the 2004 and the 2007 editions.The “Fords” pursued the same career at the same College. Audrey would like to know of any other cases of sisters studying at Dartford. I think she might be surprised by the number.
Audrey Ford/Gill Metcalfe
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 49 Memorial Service for Mary Yoward (1961)26
Mary has gone from us and we are grieving. It is meet and right that we should do so. But we are here at this memorial service to celebrate her life and her achievements – a celebration for all the joy that she brought to those of us who knew her.
And how fortunate we are to have known Mary. In life, most of us have people who like us and who love us but we are not universally liked and loved. Some people we get on with, others we do not. Some people enjoy our company, others avoid it. It is true to say that Mary was universally liked and loved and everyone, everyone liked her; everyone loved to be in her company. That was because Mary had an extraordinary generosity, a kindness and vibrancy which knew no bounds, that disarmed anyone who came in contact with that constant and cheerful good- humour so characteristic of her. On Grantley Hall courses she was first up to the bar, she always had a kind word or a generous comment about her colleagues, she never criticised, carped or complained. Her laughter would resound. She laughed with abandon, her face colouring and her eyes squeezing out tears. On some occasions so heartily would she laugh that she would wet her knickers. Thoreau said that:‘Hearty laughter is a sign of a healthy soul.’ Those of us who believe that there is something beyond the grave know that there is another bright and healthy soul in heaven, laughing with the angels.
We will all have stories about this remarkable woman. In one inspection prior to an OFSTED visitation, she stopped two large boys as she unpacked the car of documents and guidelines, handbooks and policies. She asked them to carry in the boxes to the inspectors’ room and they duly obliged. They were commanded to appear back to see her at morning break. Charily they arrived at the door and Mary presented each of them with a large wedge of chocolate cake. Sometimes the little things in life are more important than the big things and her simple act of generosity made her so endearing.
But Mary was no push over.When it came to inspection she was a highly skilled, dedicated and experienced colleague. On one occasion she inspected a PE department and concluded it was excellent in every aspect save for the rather haphazard health and safety procedures. The swimming pool had small and faded signs indicating ‘deep’ and ‘shallow’ ends obstructed by equipment and there were small shards of glass discovered in the sand pit.’ It would be a great pity,’ Mary told the HOD, ‘to have such a first rate report soured by some comments on health
26 Mary Yoward (Griffiths/Walker; 1961 (photograph page 53, BÖU Magazine 2007)
50 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 and safety. These will be dealt with immediately. I shall delay giving Mr Phinn my report until these things are addressed’
‘Yes Mrs Griffiths,’ said a sheepish looking teacher. ‘And in future you will make sure that no student is put at risk. Is that clear?’ ‘Yes Mrs Griffiths,’ said a sheepish looking teacher.
As president of BAALPE (1990-91) she had a profound influence on the association she so ably led. I was honoured to have been asked by her to speak at the national conference during her presidential year and everyone without exception spoke of Mary’s professionalism, kindness, dedication and enthusiasm.And some of you may not be aware what a splendid and amusing after dinner speaker she was.
So, at this memorial service let us celebrate Mary’s life and her achievements – celebration for all the joy that she brought to those who knew her. She will never know the pain, fear, uncertainty and black despair that come to all of us who live longer lives. Mary is now holding the hand of God and will know nothing but everlasting happiness.We should indeed be joyful for her.
Of course those who are left behind, particularly Ray and Mary’s family, will feel pain and misery at losing her. But she is not lost, she has gone through the door that we shall all have to go through one day and when we do Mary will be there to meet us. How do I know this? I do not, but I believe it to be so.
So let us keep the memory of Mary clear and dear in our hearts and look forward to the day when we shall see her again. Until then, let us strive for happiness. Mary was such a happy person. She would want us to be happy too.
I shall finish with Shakespeare and his beautiful lines in Antony and Cleopatra
“So fair thee well. Now boast thee, death, In thy possession lies A lass unparalleled.”
Gervase Phinn27
27 Gervase Phinn is probably best known for his best-selling auto-biographical novels of life as a schools’ inspector in the Yorkshire Dales, including, The Other Side of the Dale.
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 51 CHANGES TO THE REGISTER 2007 - 2008
It is with regret that we announce the deaths of:
Mrs J.M. Dunlop (Lorimer; 1925) Mrs. J Tricker (Ford; 1937) Miss J Lucas (1972) Miss R M Kerton (1935)
NEW MEMBERS
Catherine Bailey (Paton; 1952) Firs Farm, Ricketts Hill,Tatsfield, nr.Westerham,TN16 2NS
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Joan Cowderoy, Lynde House, Room F 21, Meadow Bank, 28, Cambridge Park, Twickenham.TW1 2JB
Wendy Manning (1970) 90, High Street, Fordington, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1 LD 01305 756082
Patricia Wright (Johnson; 1956) 12, Stoney Lane, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2 AP 01323 845984
52 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 53 54 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 NEWS FROM THE ARCHIVE The BÖU Archive is a valuable legacy, but its value is diminished if it remains hidden from sight. My Mission for the Archive is therefore to focus on OUTREACH.
O = OUTWARD LOOKING Reaching out to connect with potential users. There are many potential users of our Archive and I am looking at opportunities for reaching researchers who will benefit from access to our resources.
U = URL or web page address The internet is of course an important opportunity for publicity and I have ensured that the Archive web pages have been updated and made available on the University of Greenwich web site at this address: http://www.gre.ac.uk/offices/ils/ls/projects/boa
T = TEAMWORK Outreach in our Archive requires teamwork and I wish to thank all those who are working with me, in particular, Hazel Chapman, Pat Chatters, Alan Gamwell, Sue Hayes and Betty Lewis.
R = ROCHESTER GUILDHALL MUSEUM The Guildhall Museum in Rochester is planning to stage a temporary exhibition celebrating past and present sporting achievements in Medway. The exhibition should attract at least 50,000 visitors over a period of nine months from July 2008. The Museum has borrowed a selection of objects and photographs from the BÖU Archive for display in the exhibition.
E = ELECTRONIC DEVELOPMENTS We have started work on the electronic indexing of BÖU Archive materials, using MODES for Windows, which is a very popular cataloguing system used by more than 300 museums and archives.The software enables us to record comprehensive details and scanned photographs of individual items. Researchers will be able to use keywords to bring together within seconds the records of items we have indexed.
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 55 A = ALUMNI There are links to the BÖU Archive web pages via the University of Greenwich alumni web pages which are available at: http://www.gre.ac.uk/about
University alumni staff have a project to track down lost alumni from all the University’s constituent institutions and they are keen to work with the BÖU Archive to trace lost Dartford alumni and help to boost the BÖU membership.
C = CHALLENGE Outreach will be a challenge for our Archive, because we shall need to respond to increased interest, but we must meet this challenge if we are to ensure the future of the BÖU legacy.
H = HELP Reaching out to promote the Archive more widely will no doubt result in a need for more helpers. Not everyone can offer to provide on-site help, but if anyone would be willing to help me with replies to e-mailed requests for information, I would like to hear from you: [email protected]
Rosemary Moon
The Donation of Material to the Archive Our Archive is a valuable asset to the BÖU as well as contributing to Women’s Sport and Physical Education in this Country and worldwide. We regularly provide information to research students from all over the world and to other interested parties. It is a growing and developing Archive accepting material all the time from ex students and ex staff. Items previously donated include: books, photographs, uniforms, College memorabilia and Diploma badges.
We will accept items and possessions as long as the ex student was Dartford trained. The material offered needs to be appropriate and relevant to their work in Physical Education and Sport. It was agreed by the Executive Committee to focus upon material relating to Madame Bergman Österberg and Dartford.
BÖU Committee
56 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 THE BÖU BENEFIT FUND WE NEED YOUR HELP! The Benefit Fund has money which we would like to spend. Do you know of any old student who would like some financial help? Grants are given for all sorts of things – Give us a try. Contact Susan Hayes 24 Foxfield Road Orpington Kent BR6 8EF Tel:01689 854306
The Benefit Fund The Benefit Fund is for former students in need of financial assistance, who completed a full-time course of initial teacher training as teachers on the Dartford Campus or the University of Greenwich, Oakfield Lane, Dartford. Ex-members of staff are also eligible to apply.
Although the money available from this fund is very limited, the Committee would like to feel it was being used.The Charity Commissioners tell us that grants can be made for a variety of purposes, some of which are listed below.
(a) Weekly allowances for a limited period to meet a particular need. (b) Payment of travelling expenses for visiting people in hospitals convalescent homes or similar institutions. (c) Payments to assist in meeting electricity and gas bills. (d) Radio or television sets for the lonely, bedridden or housebound. (e) Payment for services such as house decorating, insulation and repairs. (f) Special payments to relieve sickness or infirmity. (g) Payment towards the cost of adaptations to the homes of the disabled. (h) The provision of services such as bathing and hair washing, shopping, sitting in and travelling companions, and help in the home.
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 57 (i) The provision of facilities such as arrangements for a period of rest or change of air not only for the sick but as a temporary relief for those having the care of the sick or handicapped. We have widened the scope of the fund and wondered if there were any ex- students involved with special needs children, deprived children or other similar groups who would like to apply for a grant to assist this work.The trustees of the Benefit Fund would discuss any applications and make awards on merit.
Grants for ex students in financial need would always have first call on the fund.
Last year (Dec 2005 - Dec 2006) the Benefit Fund paid out 6 grants, totalling £2,160. We are always delighted to receive applications.
If you are having serious difficulties financially or if you know of anyone who is, please write in confidence to:
The Benefit Fund Representative Sue Hayes 24, Foxfield Road Orpington Kent BR6 8EF
58 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 The Bergman Österberg Trust Awards Students and former students in need of financial assistance, who completed a full- time course of initial teacher training as teachers on the Dartford Campus of the University of Greenwich, Oakfield Lane, Dartford are invited to apply for an award from the Trust.
Awards may be granted for the following purposes:
(i) to obtain higher or further education training (ii) to travel in furtherance of education or training; or (iii) to study music, or other arts.
Application forms, which are returnable immediately, may be obtained from:
The Secretary (BÖU Trust Awards) University of Greenwich Avery Hill Campus Bexley Road Eltham London SE9 2PQ
The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 59 BÖU on the World Wide Web The University of Greenwich has now revamped its website and our pages are developing all the time. It is vital that we have a presence on the web where everyone can find out about Madame Bergman Österberg’s former College and the BÖU. There are pages on our history, the College at Hampstead and Dartford, current Executive Committee Members, membership contact information and the Bergman Österberg Archive.
It has enabled ex-students and colleagues to make direct contact with us. This is particularly useful for anyone living overseas with access to the internet. We are also aiming to keep members up to date with regular news and items of interest.
This is a great opportunity to promote the Bergman Österberg Union and keep Madame’s memory and continuing legacy alive.
Take a look at our pages through Greenwich Connect. We have a link via UK groups. www.gre.ac.uk/about/alumni
Then click on UK Groups.
If you experience problems finding the BÖU site just use a search engine for Bergman Österberg Union and you should be able to find us.
60 The Bergman Österberg Union 2008 THE BERGMAN ÖSTERBERG UNION
B E R G M A N Ö N A S T E R T I B E A R R M G
D A R T F O R D
2008 D1201-8