OLD STOPS’ REVIEW ISSUE 3 2013

JESS COULSON WINS GOLD DI DOUGHERTY TALKS TV MEMORIES OF ALBERT JOHNSTON BUILDING NEWS Old Stops’ Review | Welcome Old Stops’ Review | Welcome

WELCOME TO OUR THIRD EDITION

he 525th anniversary provided but also the present day talents and A particular highlight of the year was No sooner has one anniversary Richard has been at the forefront CONTENTS T us all with a fantastic opportunity enthusiasm of the boys and girls who the opening of the new Woodsmoor finished than we start preparing for of the successful development of to renew acquaintances with Old benefit from Shaa’s great vision. development; whilst many Old another. We have already started Grammar School for the Paul Carr 4 Stopfordians and the many friends of Stopfordians no doubt have fond discussing how to mark the centenary last two decades and there has been Stockport Grammar School. I would The Reception at The Goldsmiths’ memories of lessons in the Black and of the opening of the school’s buildings no more faithful steward of Edmond From the Helm 4 like to thank colleagues in the school, Hall was an occasion that I’m sure White Tower, anybody visiting will on the current site in 1916. Shaa’s legacy. Ron Astles 5 Governors, the Worshipful Company all present will remember for many agree that the project has provided Di Dougherty 6 of Goldsmiths and members of the years to come and I am delighted marvellous facilities for the children Last year saw the retirement of Andrew Chicken Headmaster Where Are They Now? 8 OSA Committee for their support and that relations between The Company who follow in their footsteps. Richard Rimmington from the Board hard work in creating a programme and Stockport Grammar School are of Governors. I should like to reiterate OS Sport 11 of events that enabled us to celebrate as strong as they have ever been. the gratitude of all Stopfordians for his Jess Coulson 12 not only the history of the school, outstanding contribution as Chairman. Albert Johnston 14 School Highlights 16 OS Highlights 17 Building News 18 Announcements 19 Coming Soon 20

Read our interview with Di Dougherty on page 6

The Tempest, 2013

2 3 Old Stops’ Review | Paul Carr, From The Helm

However there began to be increasing The Rev. William Alfred Pemberton Paul Carr arguments and friction over the was appointed. His arrival seemed direction and content of religious to transform the school. From the (OS 1971) From teaching from elements in the town, lowest ebb, numbers had risen suggestions of impropriety in the within four months to 27; within REFLECTS ON selling of stationery and dissatisfaction seven months there were 53. HIS YEAR AS with the salary of the Headmaster. Tentative hope replaced darkest The The 1850s were years of continued gloom and the storm appeared to President academic success on the one hand, have been weathered. In 1937 the but on the other increasing disputes then Prime Warden accepted for of the OSA in the town. himself and his successors the office Helm of Patron of the School and the path In 1859 the Goldsmiths finally lost to the successful modern school patience, exasperated that all their seemed increasingly assured.* WELCOME TO As well as being an Old Stop himself, I am pleased that the initiative to Stockport Grammar School has efforts should be unappreciated they THE NEW CHAIRMAN Paul is a parent of a current pupil. develop the Facebook site and other a long and fascinating history. provided for a perpetual endowment Your memories OF GOVERNORS He graduated from Cambridge in means of online communication is Today we acknowledge and of £300 leaving the Mayor and As part of the 525th Anniversary Mr Ron Astles first joined the 1975 with a Classics and Law degree progressing well. celebrate the success of a school Corporation to be totally responsible celebrations, I have been compiling Board of Governors in 1993, and is now a District Judge in the with over 1400 pupils but towards for the of the school. Initially a history of the School since after a five year term on the Magistrates’ Court. The OSA contributes to the funding the end of the 19th Century the there was great enthusiasm but the 1980 chronicling the enormous Stopfordian Parents’ Association of the Alumni Assistant post, for position was very different. At the withdrawal of scholarships and other achievements of that period and committee (two of which were “As I write this in February my term whom the focus has been on end of 1887 there were five pupils funds from the Goldsmiths, I would encourage Old Stops to spent as Chairman). He stepped as President is drawing towards its promoting communication between on the roll in the Upper School and competition from the newly contact me with their recollections. down from the SPA when his son end. It has been a most rewarding Old Stops and forging links between 17 in the Lower. established Public Elementary Schools Old Stops of any generation are Chris left SGS, and was then experience and an invaluable means them and school. One tangible as a result of the 1870 Education always welcome to explore the “very surprised” to receive a of being reintroduced to Stockport life, benefit of this relationship has As is frequently the case in crises, Act, and wavering enthusiasm from Archives by initially contacting phonecall from Alan Kershaw, as I have returned to this area after been the OSA’s funding of hockey there were a number of factors that the Governors meant that the financial the External Relations Office the Chairman of Governors at that living in for many years, where masks for the school team. Tommy had conspired together to create this difficulties were compounded. The on 0161 419 2408. time, asking him to join the Board. I was Secretary of the Branch. Bowden, Chairman of the 250 Club, situation. In 1842 the school, ten school was being kept afloat by the made the presentation at a years after its successful move to the endowments and the generosity of Best Wishes Ron told us he “thought about it for I have had the privilege of attending ceremony in February. new building at Greek Street, was local trustees such as Alderman Stuart Helm (OS 1964) all of 5 or 6 seconds!” He saw the a variety of the OSA activities and performing tolerably well but by 1846 Ephraim Hallam. However the school’s Archivist and OSA Membership Secretary role as the perfect way to continue representing its members at school As Secretary of the London Branch, the Examiners’ report came to the fortunes were about to improve. his association with SGS and credits events. The rain held off long enough I am conscious of its need for conclusion that ‘the School had fallen Hallam’s generous gift provided for *Adapted from ‘Stockport Grammar School’ his time as a school Governor as by James and William Ball for the annual Golf Day and I was development. I am therefore off lamentably in the higher branches scholarships, and a new Headmaster “one of the most pleasant duties able to brave the cold weather to pleased to say that a London of Education’. The Goldsmiths were I have done in my life.” watch an exciting lacrosse match at event is currently in the planning less than impressed with this news Disley. Old Stops put in a splendid for later this year. If you would but increasingly their ability to In particular, Ron continues to performance against to come like more details about this exercise Shaa’s will and control events seize the opportunity to enjoy out convincing winners. please email Maili Lavin at from London was becoming more the high quality music and drama [email protected] difficult. They determined, however, performances at the school, a I have enjoyed the wide range of to appoint a new Headmaster, new tradition which began when he used to watch Chris singing in excellent music being made by pupils It remains for me to thank my Visitors (the forerunners of Governors) the choir, playing the oboe in of all ages and it is pleasing to know committee members for their help and new statutes. the orchestra and taking part that the musical traditions of Douglas and guidance, particularly our in drama productions. Steele and Harry Robinson are being Secretary and now distinguished When the new statutes appeared they maintained and developed. Life Member, Richard Griffiths. I also revealed some fundamental changes: Prior to his retirement in 1995, the Headmaster no longer had to be a wish to express my appreciation to Ron was in the Greater The annual Remembrance Service has the staff of the External Relations clergyman; and French, German and Police Force, working through every become a firm fixture in the calendar, department who have always been higher mathematics were incorporated rank from Constable to Detective and this year provided the opportunity available to advise and assist. as new subjects, in addition to the Chief Superintendent. He worked for a reunion of Old Stops who were classical curriculum of Greek and on the shootings in Moss Side and pupils between 1930 and 1955. After To our great delight Sarah Johnson . Fees of two guineas could now was involved in countless working the service there was time for (OS 1993) the SGS Music be charged in the Upper section, groups as well as being a Senior reminiscence during a splendid lunch Administrator, will be my successor. although the Lower was still free. Advisor on prosecution policies. with musical accompaniment. We are also fortunate to have By the time of the 1849 Visitation, Mike Cheslett as President Elect.” significant progress was obvious: Ron became Chairman of Governors This year we have been exploring there were 130 pupils in nine classes in the summer of 2012, following means to ensure Old Stops are able with 21 prospective applicants. The the retirement of Richard to keep in touch wherever they may new Headmaster was William Gurney. Rimmington. Ron’s son Chris Astles be in the world. Pupils at Greek Street c 1895 (OS 1991) is a Corporate Lawyer in London. 4 5 Old Stops’ Review | Diana Dougherty Old Stops’ Review | Diana Dougherty

Would you say that sport I am also ambassador for the golf One of my favourite teachers was reporting, in particular golf, brand Lynx. We have had so much Mrs Muscutt. She was fair, very is still a male dominated fun over the last year with golf days, organised and I really liked her outfits! TEE TIME CHAT environment? And if so, has it exhibitions and promoting the brand. She was my Head of House and was a been difficult to forge a career The company almost insist on Max big influence in terms of me going on Di Dougherty (née Stewart, So, how did you get into I have also travelled considerably in this field? joining us for team meetings, which to study German at university. I lived OS 1997) is a TV Presenter working in television? over the last few years and getting to The doors for golf reporting have can be a case of passing the baby in Vienna for a year while at Newcastle on the SKY channels. I started off in TV ten years ago as a experience different cultures has been well and truly opened up for women. around the board room. University and that would never have runner, making cups of tea and doing a real treat. My husband plays golf I never really thought too much about happened if it wasn’t for Mrs Muscutt. She can often be found talking sport the autocue. Then after a couple of for a living so we travel a lot together. it, I have just always kept my head ....and can you offer any on Sky News Sunrise programme with interviews with Sky Sports, I started One of the first discussions we always down, worked hard and believed in pearls of wisdom to other I loved doing the school plays too and Eamonn Holmes and she recently working on the Spanish football have in the airport is what food we are my ability. Rewards will come from working mothers? every year that was what I looked hosted The World Series Squash programme, photocopying scripts going to try when we get there! hard work and that is something You can combine work and forward to most. I will never forget Finals at Queen’s Club on Sky Sports. and looking after the guests. I moved that Stockport Grammar definitely motherhood but you do have to all the MUN trips – I learnt so much Diana also presented the The People’s quickly onto other departments, And what has been the instilled in me. be super organised! I have learnt travelling to places like The Hague Rainforest with Richard Bacon for running on lots of sports shows, highlight of your career so far? to prioritise, organise and plan to debate United Nations affairs. Sky One. She is perhaps best known and soon realised I actually wanted The highlight of my career was I think presenters like Clare Balding everything. It has, in fact helped my So many happy memories.... for her Golf coverage for Sky Sports to present. I’d had a year at drama presenting the Opening and Closing have paved the way for other female professional life as my brain certainly over the last few years. As well as school following my German degree Ceremonies of the Ryder Cup in broadcasters. What she has achieved multi-tasks even more nowadays. Are you still in touch with many her TV work, Diana hosts charity and and I knew I wanted to ‘perform’ in 2010 at Celtic Manor in Wales. is amazing. I admire her talent and It is really important to Nick and me of your old schoolfriends? I am seeing all my girlfriends from corporate events. Here, she talks to us some way. When I was promoted to The ceremony went to 140 countries love listening to her interviews. to spend quality time with Max too Stockport Grammar this weekend! about her career, juggling motherhood sub editor on a production team for with over 100 million viewers. I When I saw her at Cheltenham Races, though and some days you just have I love them to bits. Grace Dawson, and work and the impact SGS had on Sky Sports News, I also started doing am glad I didn’t know the stats I followed her round the paddock! to turn the phone off and breathe. Lindsey Dickinson, Lisa Whitehead, her life. a few spots of reporting which led to a beforehand! Everyone asks if I was Mel Taylor, Beth Robinson, Lucy screen test for Sky Sports News and I nervous but the answer is honestly Congratulations on the birth As you mentioned, your Broadhurst to name a few. We meet We are used to seeing you have never looked back! I presented no. I was so proud to be part of such of your first child last year! husband is golfer Nick up a few times a year and every on TV but what else have you on that channel for three years then a huge sporting event and I had the Being a working mother brings Dougherty, so golf is obviously summer we rent a cottage together been up to recently? moved to the golf department for easy job of just talking about the with it a whole set of new going to be in Max’s genes! and have a girly weekend. I can In March, I hosted a big event for six years. My golf work included game. The players had the hard work challenges... Will you be encouraging him to honestly say these girls are like sisters. the Hawn Foundation in London. presenting live European Tour and PGA to do on the course! Plus I had an Maximilian was born on 21st August follow in your footsteps? Max will do whatever he wants to do. This Foundation was set up by Tour events. I have travelled a lot with amazing stage manager, director 2012. He is awesome and changing That was the message I always got Lucy Cotter (Sky News Arts & Goldie Hawn and with her backing, my job, met some incredible people and producer so I couldn’t go wrong. daily. I left my full-time role as Golf from my parents. We live in a world Entertainment Correspondent) and they have set up an educational and have definitely made friends for The people that talk in your ear piece Presenter at Sky Sports in December full of possibilities, so who knows! I were talking only last week about programme called MindUP, which life along the way. are so important. Calm demeanours 2011 to have a family but my decision our fun days at Stockport Grammar equips children with emotional and really help. to go freelance is working so far and cognitive tools to help them manage What do you love most about I am really excited about combining What are your favourite – amazing that we work in the same their behaviour. It was a fantastic your job? being a parent with work. I still work memories of your time at SGS? building now! evening and Goldie Hawn is an I love interviewing people and finding in the golfing world and continue with I have so many memories from school amazing woman. Kurt Russell also out what makes them tick. Sportsmen my sports presenting and MCing. and my best friends are still my What’s next for you then? flew in for the event and an incredible can be a bit distant but once you get So far, Max has travelled with me school friends. I remember my first I have lots of work coming up, amount of money was raised. to know them, they tend to open up and my husband to various golf day at Senior School... I had been at TV and corporate-wise. I normally and interviews become a real treat, events. He recently came with us to Stockport Grammar Junior School too tweet all about it! But this evening, often with unexpected responses. South Africa which was a great trip as were my two sisters and brother. I am cooking for my husband who Thinking quickly during live but the eleven hour flight with a six That feeling of being all grown up with has just returned from Orlando where TV interviews is very month old was a challenge. He got a new uniform was amazing. he has been playing. I am inspired rewarding and I much to know all the cabin crew very well! by Gwyneth Paltrow’s recipes at prefer live TV to I was very sporty at school and spent the moment so am going to try pre-recorded countless hours on team buses going one of them... programmes. to hockey matches. I loved playing on the Astroturf, being taught by Mrs Backley back in the day.

I have so many memories from school and my best friends are still my school friends.

6 7 Old Stops’ Review | Where are they now?

HOLDING A TORCH PASSING OUT In the run up to London 2012, two Olly Britland (OS 2006) passed out LIFE WHERE Old Stops were given the honour of of Sandhurst as a Second Lieutenant IN COLOUR is an carrying the Olympic flame in their in the Royal Army Medical Corps Helen Bridges (OS 1998) home towns. Daniel Walker (OS 2008) following the 168th Sovereign’s artist based in London. She is a carried the torch through Macclesfield Parade at the Academy, and has now ARE been deployed to Afghanistan with and Richard Howarth (OS 2010) printmaker whose work is a mix between art carried his through Bolton. his regiment (5th Medical Regiment). and illustration, combining traditional screen- Prior to attending Sandhurst, Olly was Over the last three years, Daniel printing techniques with modern technologies. Taking THEY a member of the Combined Bath and has volunteered at an orphanage inspiration from the everyday, she celebrates specific Bristol Officer Training Corps while areas with drawings, photographs and collages. in Nepal, helped reconstruct homes studying towards a History degree destroyed by an earthquake in Her subtle use of text and image lends itself to beautifully at Bath Spa University. considered prints building up layers of colour. NOW? and assisted volunteers in developing and transforming a school in Tanzania, HARVARD HISTORY HEAD After graduating from the Camberwell College of Art in where he is also funding two children’s Professor David Armitage (OS 1982) education projects. was recently interviewed by 2005 with a Masters in Printmaking, Helen set up a screen Cambridge University Press’s Itinerario printing studio in South London. A couple of years later Richard studied for two years at she combined forces with Lucy Bainbridge and now (the international journal on the the Royal National College for the works at Bainbridge Studio, a creative hub for over history of European expansion and Blind, before commencing his Law 50 artists. Helen also teaches screenprinting global interaction). In the interview, Foundation course in Coventry. EVEREST and is an art tutor at Core Arts, working TEACHING David spoke about his time at Stockport with people with mental At the same time, under the BASE CAMP health issues. ENGLISH Grammar and, in particular, the pseudonym of Rikky James, he has Together with IN JAPAN inspiration and support he gained fellow students from After graduating been launching his music career, from his History teacher, the University of Dundee, with a First in English recording an unofficial Paralympics Nicholas Henshall. David now Helena Charles (OS 2009) from Southampton University, EP with The Happy Mondays’ Mikey lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts. will be joining an expedition to Anna Broster (OS 2008) has become Shine as well as a charity single for He is Chairman of the History Everest Base Camp this summer, an Assistant Language Teacher with PAPYRUS (Prevention of Young department at to raise money for children’s charity JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching Suicide) called Take It Away. and was recently elected Fellow Childreach International. programme). Anna has been living of the Australian Academy of Richard is also involved with Fixers – in Nagasaki since 2011 where she the Humanities. A link to David’s an ITV campaign which supports Whilst in Nepal her team will teaches at Nagasaki Hokuyodai High interview can be found on young people who want to make visit Childreach projects. Helena’s School. She teaches ichi-nen-sei the school website in the a change. He is working fundraising goal is £2,500, with at (equivalent to Fifth Year) and runs the Old Stops section. with them to highlight least 50% of that going to the charity school’s English Club. CLASS ACT discrimination faced by pop and the remainder being spent on Scouting Sophie Skelton (OS 2012) began musicians with disabilities. the expedition expenses. Anna has also been getting involved her acting career whilst still at for an MBE with the local community, singing SGS, with her first TV drama Colin McIntyre (OS 1959) was To donate, please visit: with the school’s Chorus in their appearance being filmed during invested as a Member of the Order mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/ Nagasaki concert and teaching an her study leave. This speaking of the British Empire by the Queen helenacharles English conversation class for adult role in ITV’s detective drama DCI at last October, women. She also taught at an English Banks aired in 2012, and was following a scouting career which Camp for teenagers in Sasebo in April. followed by her appearance in two stretches back 65 years. episodes of CBBC’s The Dumping Ground, a spin-off of the popular Colin first joined the Scouts in Delphic Double Tracy Beaker series. in 1947, gaining his Queen’s Scout Award ten years Matt Cocksedge and Richard Boardman album’s called Collections – it’s a (both OS 2002) make up two-thirds reflection of how we’ve tried to pull In between filming scenes, later. Shortly afterwards he took of Delphic, the electronic rock band, in influence from everywhere, pulling Sophie studied for her A Levels various volunteer leader roles whose single Good Life was an in as many sources as we could.” in a hotel room in Leeds and in the Romiley and Sale districts. official song of the London 2012 says her teachers at SGS were Following a move to Ware in Olympic Games. As part of this year’s Manchester “incredibly supportive and 1977, he took a commissioner International Festival, the trio will encouraging.” Whilst at Stockport role and later became a member Their latest album, released at the be completely reworking Collections Grammar, the actress appeared of the Hertfordshire county start of 2013 is called Collections, over three nights, with the help of in the school productions of The executive committee. which Virgin.com calls “a melting pot musicians from across the globe. Wizard of Oz, Les Misérables and of musical influences, an eclectic mix These gigs are tipped to be one of Fiddler on the Roof. Sophie plans His MBE was awarded in recognition of vibes, beats and arrangements.” the hottest tickets of the year. to head to King’s College London of his record-breaking term of 26 In an interview with NME magazine, You can find out more about to study English Literature this years as county secretary, and Matt said of the album: “We never Delphic’s music at www.delphic.cc autumn, whilst also continuing follows the Silver Wolf, awarded to have boundaries. That’s why the Follow them on Twitter @delphicmusic her acting work. him by the Chief Scout in 2004 for services to scouting of the most 8 exceptional nature. 9 Old Stops’ Review | Where are they now? Old Stops’ Review | OS Sport FASHION STUDENT Cricket Chairman BOARDMAN TURNS HEADS Barry Rickson (OS 1954) has TASKER calendar been elected as Chairman of the A commemorative 2013 calendar Philip Ellis (OS 2011) won the male International Council of Cricket has been produced to mark Final of the Religion and House of Societies; an organisation which 30 years since the establishment Fraser Model Search (with current stretches across the UK and of the Boardman Tasker Trust Fifth Year pupil Thea Hudson has branches in Australia, in memory of Old Stopfordian coincidentally winning the female New Zealand and Zimbabwe. Pete Boardman and his friend category). Philip will star in Religion’s Joe Tasker, who both died on the Autumn/Winter 2013 Lookbook, Having served as secretary for north-east ridge of Mount Everest and has received a contract with many years, Barry has organised in 1982. Premier plus £800 to spend on numerous events for the council, Religion clothing at House of Fraser. involving eminent figures from Proceeds from the calendar will the cricket world. support The Boardman Tasker After completing his A Levels, Prize for Mountain Literature Philip studied Art Foundation at which awards £3,000 to an author Manchester Metropolitan University, HELPING GRADUATES Ben Rosen (OS 1994) established or authors for original work where he won the fashion illustration Inspiringinterns.com in 2009, which has made an outstanding prize. He is now taking a degree to help graduates secure contribution to mountain in Fashion at Central St Martin’s structured work experience literature. College, London. OS SPORTING positions at digital companies in London, with the intention Last year the Trust introduced that the placements would lead an award for writers aged 16-25 AN APP HIGHLIGHTS for original unpublished literary to full-time paid roles for the A DAY candidates. 2,800 internships work of up to 1500 words, Susannah Rugby After being cancelled due to heavy later, 70% of their interns have whether fiction, non-fiction, Dushaj The annual match between the current rain in July, the OSA Oppida Cup full-time roles at the companies drama or poetry, the central (née Farmer) Rugby First XV and the Old Stops competition was finally played in at which they interned. theme of which is concerned (OS 1988) has team saw a 17 – 15 win for our first October at Stockport GC in lovely with the mountain environment. created an app XV over the team of recent leavers, weather, with current SGS pupils Ben now has twenty two to photograph putting the school’s players in good bringing out a team too. employees and plans to open Pete, renowned as one of the and store children’s artwork. Kids Art stead for the new season. more Inspiringinterns offices greats of British Himalayan Keeper is available for both Apple and If you’d like to get involved please across the UK, as well as mountaineering, was an SGS Android devices, enabling parents to Golf contact David Withington, Secretary branching out into European pupil between 1956 and 1969, collect their children’s artwork without The Golf Society currently has about of the Old Stopfordians’ Golf Society cities such as Berlin and where his passion for the sport taking up lots of space and avoiding 33 active members of whom 23 on [email protected] Stockholm, where digital began. His influence lives on at the guilt of throwing the work away. are regulars. Under Captain Tony start-ups are plentiful. the school through the state-of- Leary they had an enjoyable and OS Lacrosse the-art climbing wall, opened in After leaving SGS, Susannah’s first successful season last year despite Having retained our place in the his name in 2008. degree was in Physiology and the wet weather. Premier Two Division, the 2012/13 Pharmacology at King’s College season has tested the determination THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES London and she went on to work The team played against Bramhall of a comparatively small squad of After a year serving as the resident in pharmaceuticals in both the UK Park GC and Gatley GC (14-a-side) Stopfordian lacrosse players. doctor, whilst also running and the US. at the end of May before taking part psychological and physiological in the Inter-Old Boys Competition An erratic schedule, with lengthy gaps research on Concordia base in Susannah met her Albanian at Bramhall GC in July, in which between games at the start of the Antarctica (as reported in the husband at a carwash in London teams of former pupils from seven season, has meant that commitment last issue of OSR), Dr Alex Kumar and, following their marriage, local schools took part. Old Stops and consistency of performance have (OS 2001) decided to stay on in they moved to Australia in 2002. finished third behind Old Waconians inevitably been affected. However, Antarctica as the expedition There, she completed a Postgraduate and Old Maxonians, with our best at the time of going to press, the doctor for the Shackleton Epic. degree in Forensic Science before player being Peter (Fred) Maher with team have won their last two games, working for Victoria Police in 32 stableford points. beating Ashton and Newcastle. He then came home for a short Melbourne for two years as a Stopfordian Lacrosse has a long time before heading off to forensic scientist. The annual Worth Trophy match tradition and the mixture of youth If you would Thailand in April for six months against Old Maxonians was played and experience in the current squad like to buy a calendar of tropical medicine. Susannah now works part-time at Knutsford GC on 6th September, deserves a rewarding outcome to you can do so at: selling prosthetic joints to fund her resulting in a very tight win for Old the current campaign. v-publishing.co.uk/ We look forward to seeing where app development. With two other Maxonians who retained the trophy books/wildlife-and- medicine will take Dr Kumar apps in the pipeline, she juggles with 255 points to 250. To get involved with the Lacrosse photography/2013- next year... this with raising her children team, please contact Richard boardman-tasker- Sunday, aged four and Griffiths [email protected] 30th-anniversary- calendar.htm 10 Felix, aged two. Old Stops’ Review | Run For Your Life Old Stops’ Review | Jess Coulson

RUN FOR YOUR LIFE Cross Country Runner I didn’t have a clue what it was really - At what point did you think Do you enjoy the coaching? Talk us through your routine Is it easy to balance all of your Jess Coulson (OS 2008) won I went on a five hour coach journey to running would be the career I do enjoy it, I’ve got a coaching on a typical training day training with your work for Gold last December in the and everyone was eating sweets you were going to pursue? qualification so I do quite a bit of it. It depends if it’s a session or a run your Masters Degree? Women’s Under-23s Race at and I thought “Oh, this is brilliant!” When I first qualified for the Junior GB I like to give people a taste of what day. Three days a week I do a session My Masters is part-time which is the European Cross Country team, it was a really strong team and I do and to show that there is more day where I get up early, have helpful and I’m doing a big research Championships in . I got a taste for it. In 2007 I went to to running than just doing a run every breakfast, and then run between project on bone health in female Kenya but then unfortunately in 2008 now and again. 10 and 13 miles at school. After that, athletes. I can do a lot of it from Congratulations on your I started to get a lot of injuries. I go home to recover, and then do a home, so while I am recovering from Gold in Budapest The PE department You were part of camp set up 20-30 minute run in the afternoon. training, I sit down and do some work Thanks... I was very happy with it! have been so While I was at university, running had by Kelly Holmes (On Camp In between all that, I do a 30-60 on my laptop. supportive and they fallen to the side and I concentrated with Kelly). Is she a big minute gym session. Were you expecting to win? on my degree. I had one really good inspiration for you? What did you think about the We’d had the trials two weeks earlier want me to do well... performance in 2011 over a 10 mile On Camp with Kelly was set up in Olympics last year? in Liverpool. I just wanted to make that spurs me on! course but I still had injuries. But after 2004 – I joined in 2007. It’s ending That Saturday night of athletics was the team for the Under 23s but I I graduated, I just thought “Right, I’m now because of the funding cuts, I train between unbelievable. Even when people play it actually won the overall thing! I had really going to give this a go.” So I but it has helped me over the years. back I still get goosebumps! It’s great a great race. I’d also had a good race For my training I used to do laps guess it became serious last summer. To have someone like Kelly to support 4 and 6 hours to see that it has inspired people. two weeks before in Spain so I was round the school field (like I do now) you, who’s achieved two gold medals every day. running well and feeling good. on my lunch break. The day before I know that I can do it and I’ve had and has been through injuries – it’s Is Rio your next big goal or the race, I did my maximum number some good performances. If I’m great to know that they’re there if Two days a week, I get up and go do you have other things on How did you get into running of laps which is completely the wrong healthy and I stay fit then hopefully I you need them. straight out for a run which lasts the horizon? in the first place? way to do things, as you’re supposed can make a career out of it. As long as between 15 minutes to an hour. Well, I’ve got other things on the way Through school... in 2004 I qualified to ease back before a race, which I I’m happy doing it, I will just go for it. Now I’ve got my coach Mick, in From my run I go to the gym and and because of the injuries I’ve had for the Schools Championships by know now, obviously. London, who’s great and my do a weights session for about an I take each day as it comes. I’ve got accident really. What support have you had family are my main support, hour. Then I’ll do a 30 minute swim some short term goals but obviously I started going down to Stockport from the SGS PE department? but On Camp With Kelly taught before going home for breakfast, it’s a big aspiration and it’d be I just went through the system, Harriers from then on but was still The PE department have been me a lot of important things. recovering and maybe doing some amazing if I get there. getting into the top eight of the playing hockey too and that was amazing; they’re so supportive and I work. In the afternoon, I do some Stockport Schools. I then went on to taking priority, until I gave it up in consider them all my good friends. I drills and core work for an hour. represent Stockport at the Greater September 2006 and that’s when I do all my training at the school so it’s I do a long run on Sundays. Jess is pictured above with teammates at Manchester Schools competition and qualified for GB and started taking good to know that they want me to do the Championships in Budapest. from there I qualified to represent running seriously. well. That spurs me on. I come and do Friday is an easier day but it’s still L-R: Lauren Howarth, Beth Potter, Lily Partridge, Manchester at the National Schools some coaching as well. 30 minutes running and gym work. Jess Coulson, Hannah Alderson, Hannah Walker Championships. I’d say I train between 4 and 6 hours every day.

12 13 Old Stops’ Review | Albert Johnston Old Stops’ Review | Albert Johnston

“I was involved in the last two plays “Johnnie insisted that I had revolver “AJ was an enthusiast of the first for the school: Richard III in practice under the supervision of an order, and every memory I have of MEMORIES OF November 1966 (playing Cardinal imported police sergeant.... He was him seems to include his smile. He Bourchier) and Arms and the Man in totally committed to helping young was totally absorbed by the plays November 1967 (playing Sergius). boys understand themes far above whilst they were on, and any free Albert Johnston As a result of the Johnstons’ our heads to start with, bringing time he had was devoted to the play. influence, amateur dramatics has them eventually within our grasp... His non-teaching time was more likely been a hobby of mine ever since. to be spent constructing scenery than SGS 1925-1968 Rehearsals were always held in the marking books... In the history of the school, there are few teachers History Room, the old Room 5 that disappeared when the hall was built ... Johnnie never appeared in school whose reputation surpasses that of Albert Johnston. across the drive. When I was in the plays himself – but he did play the First Year, and being taught ancient part of the Voice of God in the ‘AJ’ stands out as a man devoted “I was greatly influenced by AJ who history by Albert Johnston during the production of Everyman. At one to two professions, the teaching not only was an inspirational master Autumn Term, I was always mystified school performance, there was unrest of history and amateur dramatics. but had the ability to set aspirations by AJ’s habit of suddenly sketching in the ranks, and the Voice of God The thoroughness which marked in the boys: it was thanks mainly to chalk lines across the parquet floor boomed “If you don’t settle down, his teaching was matched only him that I left in 1949 with a place at whilst teaching. I put this down to you will all be in detention...” by that which he and his wife Cambridge.” Chris Walton OS 1949 eccentricity until I later understood Eleanor, aka Mickey, showed in that he was mapping the set for the ...We must acknowledge the fact producing the school plays. His “I was privileged to be one of the school play!” that it was all a joint effort with his memory lives on in the Albert brotherhood known as the Stage John Blunden-Ellis (OS 1969) beloved wife Mickey, who taught the Johnston Travel Prize, which is Staff... The ultimate proof of being Juniors, and gave many of us a love awarded annually to individuals a true member was having to climb “Following the last performance on ... I had to be made up with black dye of poetry... or teams from the Sixth Form who up to the bell tower above the Hallam the Saturday night, we would start every night...after it was all over, the would like to travel to further their Hall.... This was a more precarious stripping out everything as soon as Johnstons packed me off to a sauna ...There is an old saying that the experience and knowledge of a event during the Spring performances the audience had left. Then there bath in Stockport to sweat it all out! difference between an actor and a passion or subject. when it was light and one could would be a break whilst we all had clergyman is that an actor speaks have been easily seen from the our fish & chip supper in Albert’s form ...They were like two other parents fiction as if it were truth, and a We have been inundated with your Quadrangle. The audience were never room. This was followed by speeches for me. From the age of 12 until I clergyman speaks truth as if it were contributions and memories of ‘AJ’ aware that, thirty feet above them, and thank yous. It was the highlight left school, they appeared in all my fiction. I would like to think that those so we have included a selection of the stage staff were passing time of the week... growing life – ‘Johnnie’ was my History of us like me, who were later excerpts from your recollections. between scene shifting duties. I am teacher and enabled me to get a ordained might have been helped Please visit the website for the full not aware that any of the stage staff ...Everything had to be tidied up History Exhibition to his old college, to avoid that trap by Johnnie’s versions. Many thanks to all those ever refused the challenge... before we could go home, certainly Emmanuel. He was a brilliant teacher, coaching in voice production and who got in touch and apologies to to be ready for school on the Monday easy to follow and would have us all timing. I guess it would also apply anyone whose memories we were ...After the last performance on a morning, and sometimes for a service gripped in his lessons. And in play to those who later became barristers, unable to include. Saturday night, we were treated to a in the Hallam Hall on the Sunday. rehearsals, he would draw the part and indeed teachers themselves.” fish and chip supper, with the odd It could be as late as just before out of you by encouragement – The Revd Andrew Body (OS 1964) “I was in three of Albert’s plays. glass of cider, before the whole of the dawn on the Saturday night before you always felt improved and Mickey quondam Secretary of the Taking a high profile role of Third stage had to be dismantled. After one I would set off to cycle home. I was was a constant encourager too. Dramatic Society Sailor in The Trial Scene from The “I remember Albert’s plays – and November play, we unbolted the steel once stopped by the police in the They were two amazing people.” Caine Mutiny and an equally also him walking up and down the sections and laid them down outside. early hours, when cycling home Peter Firth (OS 1948) David in The significant role in The Tempest of… classroom aisles as we were studying The residents opposite did not to Hazel Grove along the A6 with Boy David – 1942; Joan in Joan of Arc Third Sailor! I also had a bit part in – rehearsing his own lines for other appreciate the amount of work we a rucksack on my back – – 1943; The Chronicler in Abraham Androcles & the Lion (possibly Third plays that he was involved in.” had to do in a very short period of very suspicious!” Lincoln; Oliver Cromwell in Cromwell; Sailor, though I’m not sure they had Ken Leigh (OS 1946) time, particularly after midnight, and Neville Savage (OS 1961) Emperor Jones in Emperor Jones one). The most memorable of these the police arrived after thirty minutes. Lighting Technician was The Tempest, performed in my “Innocent youth that I was, never At 4am that same night, all of us last year at SGS. As the mariners having seen a drunken man, I did cycled up to stay at a house in Disley were only needed for the first and my imaginary imitation of inebriation (the parents were away on holiday). last scene, we worked up a thirst in in front of a full-house of parents We set off up the A6 on bikes and between by playing a vigorous game and friends... some even had lights. Just out of of badminton in the gym, clad in our Hazel Grove the police stopped us medieval sailor suits, greasepaint ... Albert and his wife created and to their request, we just said, running down our faces before remarkable productions which “SGS Stage Staff.” They left us alone! donning raincoats and legging it achieved the magical atmosphere We never determined whether they down to the pub for an illicit pint! so often absent from professional were the ones we had seen earlier...” We always managed to get back performances.” Norman E Stansfield (OS 1966) for the final scene...” Brian Wilshaw (OS 1944) J.E. ‘Ernie’ Whalley (OS 1959)

14 Images from left to right Michael Bullimore 1964, AJ and Mickey 1958, Christopher Mantell 1961, Ken Leigh 2nd from right, front 1943. 15 Old Stops’ Review | SGS Highlights 2012-13 Old Stops’ Review | OS Highlights

Remembrance Day SGS Highlights The Remembrance Reunion once OS Highlights again brought together over a hundred Old Stopfordians who 2012-13 attended SGS between 1930 For more news stories visit the website 2012-13 and 1955. The annual school Remembrance Service was Sporting Excellence followed by the opportunity to This year has seen more Rugby stars James Gilboy and Goldsmiths Reception hear an account from pupils who representative honours for pupils in Tom Morton have been picked One of the many highlights of the 525th Anniversary programme of events had recently returned from a Rugby, Hockey and Netball, alongside to play for . was the Reception on May 2nd 2012. Guests enjoyed drinks and canapés visit to the French and Belgian countless wins and trophies for the in the magnificent surroundings of Goldsmiths’ Hall in London. Attended battlefields. Lunch in the Hallam school teams. Fifth Year pupil James was selected for by Old Stops, Governors, Goldsmiths, supporters of the school and Hall and jazz from Fifth Year and England U16s after he impressed the representative staff and pupils, the evening took us to the spiritual Sixth Form ensemble Lady Cha- Fifth Year pupil Emily Spencer will selectors while playing for home of our Founder, Sir Edmond Shaa. Addresses by the Chairman Cha provided refreshment before have the honour of playing hockey and the North. Sixth Former Tom of Governors, the Headmaster and the Clerk to the Goldsmiths’ a tour of the new Woodsmoor for the England U18s later this year. Morton’s outstanding performances Company reminded us not only of the Building concluded proceedings. Emily follows school first XI goalkeeper for the North U18s have led to him school’s long history but also of the Martha Watson who represented being picked for the England U18 seemingly boundless enthusiasm and Oxbridge Dinner England U18s last year and recently Clubs and Schools squad. talents of the present day pupils and staff. Old Stops, Governors, pupils attended an U21s assessment camp. and parents enjoyed the Third Year Lauren Hunt has been Both players are members of the neo-classical elegance of selected for an England U15s training Sale Sharks Academy and Tom has Downing College, Cambridge camp. She joins her older sister Holly, been playing for the team in the Aviva as the venue for the Oxbridge who has been picked for England U16s Premiership U18 League. Tom will Dinner on the 3rd May. We and also captained the SGS U16s to a be hoping to follow in the footsteps would be delighted to hear from win in the schools of Old Stopfordian James Flynn any Old Stops who may be tournament. (OS 2012), who represented England interested in assisting with the Olympic Clubs and Schools last year and then arrangements for next year’s Torchbearer made his debut for the Sharks first fixture in Oxford. Fourth Year pupil Claudia team in November. Thomas carried the torch during Shaa Society Lunch the Stockport leg of the relay as The Tempest The tradition of the Shaa Lunch a reward for raising thousands of In March, forty Senior School pupils The lead characters were played for legators and current donors pounds for charity over the past took to the stage to perform in a brilliantly by Upper and Middle School brought supporters of the school eight years. breathtaking sell-out production of pupils, notably Alex Cosgriff’s strong together in the Hallam Hall on Shakespeare’s The Tempest. depiction of Prospero and Will Spence’s the day before Founder’s Day. Claudia, who was “so excited to excellent, savage portrayal of Caliban, Donors are also invited each May be selected to take part in this Directed by Head of Drama Alison with younger pupils hauntingly playing to a special reception and tour of once-in-a-lifetime experience” Moffatt and stage-managed by Sarah the spirits and the Arial ensemble. the annual Art exhibitions. If you started fundraising when she Johnson (OS 1993), the production The play brought back memories are interested in joining the Shaa was a pupil in the Junior School, also benefited from the twenty five for Ernie Whalley (OS 1959), who Society or donating to the Bursary donating all her birthday money pupils and staff who worked tirelessly performed in the same play at Fund, please contact Rachel to charity as well as fundraising as part of costume, props, makeup, SGS over half a century ago and Horsford, Director of External for animal rights and homeless lighting, front of house, filming, reminisces about his experiences Relations on 0161 419 2408. charities. She also volunteers at backstage, set and sound teams. on the previous page. the Wellspring Homeless Shelter OSA Dinner in her spare time. Old Stops gathered for an evening of food, conversation Claudia talked to younger pupils and memories of the past at about her experience in a Junior the Founder’s Day dinner in School assembly, and was invited the Hallam Hall. Organised to speak at local primary schools annually by the OSA Committee and colleges. the dinner provides an excellent opportunity to catch up with old friends, as a mini reunion of 1973 leavers amply demonstrated.

16 17 Old Stops’ Review | Building News Old Stops’ Review | Announcements Alumni Assistant Maili Lavin (OS 2008) on the new Woodsmoor Announcements teaching block, and trips down In memory school productions. Ken was also Hugh Wright created the post of memory lane on Facebook... Longer versions of obituaries can involved with careers guidance and Proctor which Robbie applied himself be found on the Old Stops section was a keen musician. to with loyalty and his usual high The last two years have seen The black and white tower most A few remembered, less fondly, of the website. level of care and attention to detail, significant changes take place at the notably housed the History the long flights of stairs: Meg Pickersgill (teacher of PE) much preferring to find a lost Home Woodsmoor end of the school site. department, the top corridor of “My form room was at the top of this William Geoffrey Brooks (OS 1946) 26th October 2012 Economics basket or lend a tie than which is remembered for its murals building for two years. Twice a day 9th March 2012 write a hard letter home or hold In September 2012 the newly painted by Nicholas Henshall and climbing all those stairs!” Sheila Renshaw a detention. constructed Woodsmoor building Stephen Cross. Janette Smith Gerald Brimelow (OS 1947) November 2012 opened its doors for business, and 19th April 2012 A former teacher of 18 years, Sheila over the course of the last year both The pulling down of the building “Gosh what memories - History, became the first Senior Mistress and the ‘black and white’ tower and the sparked a lot of nostalgia when is remembered by former pupils for German, PE, English, Flute lessons Robert Hayden (OS 1967) Births Classics block have been demolished. we posted an image of it being and all those stairs!” 22nd April 2012 her welcoming disposition and her Maximilian James Dougherty demolished on our Old Stopfordian help in aiding girls and female staff Vickie Schofield-Jones (OS 2001) born August 2012, son of Di The new teaching block provides Facebook page. as they settled into the newly Paul Bromley (OS 1956) Dougherty (née Stewart, OS classrooms for English, Drama, co-educational school. Many people remembered Mr Cross “I’ve just come back from a five 3rd May 2012 1997) and Nick Dougherty. History, Classics, Psychology and and his History lessons on the top floor: day trip to Manchester going down Business Studies. It is a bright and memory lane showing my husband Neville Cooke (OS 1949) Brian Wilshaw (OS 1944) Jackson James Bloom born spacious structure, allowing for a more “I’ll never forget Mr Cross’ 22nd December 2012 and kids my old school and house – 26th May 2012 26th June 2012, son of Louis open learning space. The style of the dramatisation of the murder of Rizzio would I have known the building was Bloom (OS 1994) and Laura building is in-keeping with the original by Darnley (he was stabbed 56 times, coming down I would have brought Frank Lythgoe Hadfield (OS 1943) David Rakestraw (OS 1954) Bloom and brother to Max. architecture of the school and it is don’t you know?!). He would rush out back a piece of brick as a souvenir.” 29th May 2012 18th January 2013 highly-energy efficient. of his classroom screaming and enact Maartje Luisman being murdered on the stairs. The John Nickson (OS 1947) John B Davies (OS 1963) year after we had been treated to this Marriages July 2012 26th January 2013 performance, we were in the library Stephen Lockwood (OS 1999) with Miss Buckley (now Mrs Johnson) married Gaynor Jones in Malcolm L Hall (OS 1936) Peter Clay (OS 1949) opposite Mr Cross’ classroom when August 2012. 19th August 2012 2nd February 2013 the blood-curdling screams filled the A former pupil and Governor of 15 hallway outside. As she dashed to Alisha Dignan (OS 2007) years, Malcolm had a distinguished Harry Robinson the door to see what was going on, married Dean Large in legal career. He founded his own January 2013 we had to enlighten her.” September 2012. practice and became Deputy Registrar Fondly remembered by Old Stops over Lisa Bricknell (OS 1992) of the High Court and County Court. many years as the Proctor until his retirement in 1990, Harry “Robbie” Lucy Cotter (OS 1998) married Malcolm penned a life history before Richard Pallot in August 2012. he passed away which can be read on Robinson’s funeral took place at the SGS website. Norbury Parish Church on 30th January. Helen Bridges (OS 1998) married Steve Eggs in Roy Phillips (OS 1950) August 2012. 2nd October 2012 “Robbie” was one of the post-war generation of teachers whose Ben Rosen (OS 1994) married Arthur Creighton (OS 1940) contribution was exemplary. He arrived in 1952, a graduate in Sarah-Jane Lennard on 6th October 2012 9th September 2012. Arthur was a key member of French from Manchester University the London branch of the Old and taught that language with Stopfordians’ Association and in discipline throughout his time at 1992 was honoured by being made school. His service with the RAF RETIREMENTS a distinguished life member. made him the ideal candidate to Kim Bridges 1981 – 2012 become CO of the ATC. Gill Lockwood 1986 – 2012 Maggie Wilson 2009 – 2012 Ken Hollin 7th October 2012 He played an important role in school Ken taught Physics at Stockport music for many years, founding a wind Grammar School from 1975 to band and giving permanent existence Tell us your news 2003. In addition to his teaching to an orchestra. He was meticulous in email externalrelations@ commitments, he ran lunchtime Italian his record keeping and was, for a long stockportgrammar.co.uk lessons and was in charge of sound for time, responsible for the organisation of external examinations. 18

19 COMING keep in SOON touch

Golf Day 1990s REUNION There are lots of ways you can keep Thursday 13th June 2013 Saturday 6th July 2013 in touch with old classmates and Now in its 10th year, the annual If you were a pupil in the ‘90s, teachers as well as seeing what is Bursary Appeal Fundraiser takes please join us for an afternoon of going on at SGS now... place at Stockport Golf Club. food, drink and joyful reminiscing, Cost - £400 for a team of four along with the opportunity to bid To share your memories and (includes lunch, dinner and full farewell to some long-serving connect with fellow Old Stops, colour ad in the programme). members of staff who retire this ‘Like’ our Old Stopfordians year. Contact Maili for information page on facebook You can also support the day even and to book your place. if you are not putting a team in. You can also join the Stockport For more information on team Grammar School Alumni group bookings, advertising, sponsorship on Linkedin and prize donations, please contact Hannah Atenyam as soon as possible On Twitter our username on 0161 419 2408. is @stockportgs

Visit the school website and click on LONDON CALLING the Old Stopfordians section to read This September there will be a about recent achievements and news midweek evening event in central that we’ve been made aware of. London, with a very interesting speaker. For more information Or email your news to on this exciting event, [email protected] please email lavinm@ stockportgrammar.co.uk

Reunions – Formal and Informal! We regularly help

Old Stops to re-find old friends and we are always pleased to arrange visits into school.

Photos from 1980s Reunion

STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Stockport Grammar School Buxton Road Stockport SK2 7AF Telephone: 0161 456 9000 Email: [email protected] www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

Old Stops’ Review is produced by The External Relations Department and this issue was edited by Tamara Shneck.

We would like to thank all those who have contributed. If you would like to submit material for the 2014 edition or give any feedback on this one, please email [email protected] or call 0161 419 2408.

20Stockport Grammar School is a Registered Charity Number 1120199 Designed by www.jacksonhammond.co.uk