Number 10 Autumn 2009 EThe magazinet for forcmer pupilse and friendst eof Glasgorw Academay and Westbourne School

The Westbourne family reunited Editorial Contents

3 In the footsteps of greatness 4 The war years 6 Canada crossing 7 The Western Club: A haven in the city 8 Westbourne Section 10 Academical Club news 13 Events 16 How to half-succeed at The Academy 18 Moreton Black remembered 23 Tributes to John Anthony 24 Announcements 30 From our own correspondents Cheers! - Carol Shaw (1961), Jennifer Burgoyne (1968) and Vivien Heilbron (1961) at the Westbourne Grand Reunion 32 Regular Giving Some coffee morning!

In February of this year a small committee led by the redoubtable Miss Betty Henderson got together to arrange what many assumed would turn out to be a coffee morning. Eight months - and a huge amount of work - later, 420 ‘girls’ met at the Grosvenor Hilton on Saturday 24 October for the Westbourne Grand Reunion. The evening was a great success, as you can tell from letters like the one below: Dear Joanna,

I just want to say a very big ‘thank you’ to you and to everyone who organised the wonderful event Do we have your e-mail address? on Saturday evening. It was tremendous fun; it was very inspiring; it was a nostalgia feast and I shall never forget the decibel level achieved at the drinks party before the dinner itself! I'd liked to It’s how we communicate best! have made a recording for the archives. Alison Kennedy made a valiant effort to exert control and to her credit, in the main, she succeeded. There was one corner of the room, however, where even she and her mike had to concede defeat. I suppose the culprits all found their tables in the end. Keeping in touch The food was delicious and it was so thoughtful to include a full roll-call of all the guests in the beautifully-printed programmes. There was such a feeling of being at a really special event and I’m The External Relations office is situated in so glad I made the journey from London. Next time (and I hope there is a next time), I'm going to Colebrooke Terrace. Former pupils are make sure that my sisters, Lorna and Lesley, are there too. always welcome to pop in and have a chat. Just give us a call to arrange a time. Our I went to sleep that night feeling very moved and very happy. address is Colebrooke Terrace, Glasgow G12 Please pass on my sincere thanks to all the members of the Westbourne Grand Reunion Committee 8HE and you can contact us on 0141 342 – perhaps special thanks should go to Jimmy McCulloch whose generous sponsorship of the drinks 5494 or at [email protected] reception got the evening off to such a fantastically lively start! The Glasgow Academical Club, 21 Helensburgh Drive, Glasgow G13 1RR Especial thanks to you also for making sure that I got a ticket, even though I was a bit late in President - Jimmy McCulloch applying. You did us all very proud indeed! E-mail: [email protected] Best wishes, Secretary – Kenneth Shand Tel: 0141 248 5011 Vivien Heilbron E-mail: [email protected] Yes, it was quite a ‘coffee morning’ - and one that will not quickly be forgotten by any of The Academical Club pavilion is available for the ‘Westbourne girls’ who attended it. functions. Please contact Ken Barron at [email protected] for details. And among that group I am delighted to include myself! Academical Club’s London Section With best wishes Secretary – David Hall, 20 Cadogan Place London SW1X 9SA Tel: 020 7235 9012 Malcolm E-mail: [email protected]

2 Etcetera In the footsteps of greatness... The Academy has a strong history of mountaineering and exploration going back to Sir James Wordie who was a member of Shackelton’s epic Antarctic Expedition and includes prominent figures like WH (Bill) Murray, the acclaimed Scottish mountaineer and writer. The first edition of Etcetera in November 2006 carried details of Glasgow Academy’s expedition to East Greenland. This year, twelve new recruits to that great Academy tradition found themselves in an even more remote part of Greenland as Head of Outdoor Activities, Neal Gwynne, and his team set off on another great Arctic adventure to climb peaks never before attempted. Below, one of them – Sam Reilly – reflects on the moment when they conquered one of the mountains that no-one had previously climbed:

height, the terrain underfoot deteriorated into uneven rubble, yet the views behind us became majestic. By around 6.30am, I had finally woken fully, with the sun now poking its head above the peaks and the realisation dawning on me that today we were attempting our next ‘first ascent’ – a thought which in itself was enough to brush away the final few lingering cobwebs. With few, short stops we made progress up the slope, with the odd scramble up rocky bands. On one of the last of the slopes, Nigel spotted some bright yellow flowers poking through the rock; Arctic poppies, which had never been found above 700m in this area, were blooming at 1400m. Moments like these serve as a reminder that Greenland holds mysteries and rewards which can be found nowhere else, and so it was with renewed vigour that we walked closer to our second unclimbed peak. However, walking soon became a luxury, as when we reached a thin ridge with massive canyons on either side slow, scared shuffling was all we could manage. Aptly dubbed ‘Crap Yourself Canyon’, the ridge nevertheless provided some stunning views, some unforgettable moments, and a large adrenaline rush which enabled us to storm up to the summit. Today, at 9.30am, the group stood upon a never-before- climbed peak for the second time, having conquered a mountain standing at 1774m, and the giddy high we experienced on Monday was in no way diminished by Friday 10 July repetition. The same ethereal sense of weightlessness swept over us, as we surveyed the unbelievable panorama Despite the incredible glacial views from our perch on the below. To the west, the Greenland ice-cap stretched hillside, last night we all experienced the horrors of several hundred miles; straight ahead the glaciers and bivvying – mosquitoes, lumpy ground, and Arctic winds peaks of Gåseland, our home, and directly below the great that chill to the bone. We began to trudge up the stone canyon dropped straight down to the floor. We mountain side at 4.15am, with a combined total of 15 could not help feeling like kings and queens, overseeing hours’ sleep between us, in a dreary fashion that wouldn’t our great kingdom of rock and ice. It was with a just have seemed out of place in ‘Night of the Living Dead.’ sense of satisfaction that we turned for home, and we Before we had truly awoken we had climbed an extra were soon on the other side of the knife-edge ridge, 300m; it was 5.15am, and we had an absolutely stunning breathing a huge sigh of relief. It was then a fairly glacier not 100 metres to our right as we headed left up a straightforward climb down loose rocks towards the camp, steep ridge. We could also see the Vestfjord glacier although I’m sure our knees would disagree. Barring the directly behind us, glowing with the early morning sun odd shout of ‘below’ as dislodged rocks hurtled down the and extending all the way out to the sea. We caught a few slope, the descent passed fairly uneventfully and before glimpses of Arctic hare – large and lean with powerful legs we knew it we were back at the bivvy site. and snow-white fur. They are far less timid than you would think, as they have probably never encountered We now lie gloriously situated on the hillside, in bright humans before and thus have never developed a natural sunshine and with a sense of tired achievement and fear of them. They hopped about, sniffing and munching anticipating the week to come. grass, just a few metres from us. As we steadily gained Sam Reilly, S6

Etcetera 3 The war years remembered

2 October 1939 is not one of the universally-recognised milestones of World War Two, but it was a rather important – if not universally popular – date for pupils at Glasgow Academy. Less than a month after the official outbreak of hostilities, the War Office gave The Academy the all-clear – making it the first school in Scotland to which pupils were allowed to return for lessons after the summer holidays. And so Thursday 2 October 2009 was deemed an appropriate date on which to launch Seventy Years On: A School at War by former pupils Andrew Wylie and Douglas Anderson. Seventy years on to the day, almost 70 people gathered in the Senior Library in The Academy’s Main Building at 11 in the morning to remember what it was like to be at school while their parents got down to the serious business of keeping Mr Hitler at bay. After a brief address by the Rector, Peter Brodie, Andrew and Douglas reminisced about their time at Glasgow Academy, much of which coincided with the war years. A Transitus choir was also on hand to lead the audience in some nostalgic war-time singing – and the years rolled away. The book itself is full of clear-eyed reminiscence sprinkled with sharp and witty observations all wonderfully Douglas and Andrew’s proposal of the foundations of the Academicals’ illustrated with Douglas’s charming writing a history of the war years from War Memorial Trust. Whether this drawings. The authors’ twin idea of the vantage point of a school boy was means erecting a new memorial or the reminding an older generation of what one that the External Relations office restoration or an existing one depends they may have forgotten and was delighted to encourage from its on how much the book realises. introducing younger people to a world inception. It is our joint hope that It’s a great idea and terrific little book. outwith their experience is effortlessly any profits from the venture should be We hope that you will give it your realised on its pages. used to remind today’s Academy pupils support. in some tangible way of the reasons for

MATTERS SARTORIAL an exchange system. It was still Inevitably the regulations regarding possible to get a pocket embroidered school uniform had to be relaxed and, Wartime clothing shortages produced with 1st XV colours that could be as blazers were outgrown, sports their problems. Forsyth’s in Renfield sewn on to an old blazer, but the glory jackets, suits and kilt outfits became Street and Rowans in Buchanan Street of a velvet cap with a white tassel was the norm. In the very earliest days a were the traditional source of all to be unobtainable for many years. few blazer pockets bearing the old school uniform. What with limited School caps were still, compulsorily, ‘GA’ cipher survived but these soon availability, and clothes rationing, worn and on occasion could be in disappeared and the new heraldic many parents had to do a juggling act short supply. It was not that the badge, introduced in 1938, prevailed. between what was in the shop and the reserves of uniform suddenly dried up; Unlike boys today, shorts were worn coupons in hand. Items of clothing simply that replacements were not up to the age of about thirteen when were made to last and parents set up easily secured. the adolescent donned the eagerly-

Etcetera 3 awaited ‘longs’. Wartime ‘utility’ garments were hung in the cloakroom trousers were tailored without front stalls lining the sides of the Well and pleats or turn-ups, an economy of style allocated by class. that may have upset the very fashion- As the years passed, an inevitable conscious. But there were other ways shabbiness became apparent in many of expressing yourself like the school aspects of life. School footwear could scarf, worn indoors, tucked into the be a matter of parental concern, and buttoned jacket. Metal lapel badges the transportation of schoolbooks by were popular with the younger set, ‘wee boys’ in traditional leather and breast pockets bristled with satchels carried on the back changed writing hardware – rather like Cossack to a miscellaneous collection of attaché cartridges. cases. There was the memorable For the athletically inclined, to get occasion when a somewhat pompous hold of a pair of second, or third hand, youth turned up with an enormous ‘spikes’ was a considerable achieve- brief case – shades of things to come? ment. Rugby balls were used long Towards the end of the war, military after they were really oval, and boots issue canvas respirator cases became that fitted were much coveted. popular, being a convenient size Cricket bats, and linseed oil were in having internal pockets and easy snap very short supply and cricket balls were treasured. Rugby shorts could fasteners. And they conveyed a be of poor quality and tore easily. suitably martial air. The best were made of some sort Attitudes had so changed and the of tough linen, a precursor to jeans, wartime pupil accepted, without and frequent washing produced a question, that much of what he used delightfully ‘worn’ look. With rugby and what he wore would be, in the shirts you were grateful for what you words of the motor trade, ‘pre-used’. got! The same description could apply to Unlike the youth of today, many schoolbooks. Lawrence and Lang, at more layers of clothing were worn. the foot of Colebrooke Street did a Climate change was not a fact of life, roaring trade in second hand editions neither was central heating in pupils’ of the books prescribed for different homes. In the classroom it was forms. Sometimes a lot of hard work normal to wear an under vest, shirt, was saved if the purchase had pullover, and blazer or jacket (and originally belonged to some earnest scarf). Out of doors the school cap student who had pencilled in difficult was obligatory, not only because of words – particularly valuable in French school rules, but through social and Latin! New books were usually custom. In winter, overcoats or rain printed on a brownish, rather grainy, coats (the latter with a removable paper and ‘utility’ pencils were thick wool lining) were worn along unvarnished and deserved their name. with scarves and gloves. Outer

ORDER FORM Seventy Years On The Glasgow Academy 1939-1945 A School at War Please send me: copies of A School at War (Suggested donation £5 per copy. Postage & packaging £2) I enclose a cheque for £ (payable to The Glasgow Academicals’War Memorial Trust) Name: Address: Tel: email: Return forms to: Mark Taylor External Relations,The Glasgow Academy, Colebrooke Street, Glasgow G12 8HE Orders can also be placed by phone / email: 0141 342 5494 / [email protected]

4 Etcetera Drew Isaac and classmates – but which one is Drew, and who are the others?

for the most part – miles of brush and tundra, so different from the verdant scenery of Scotland. I also recall that sandwiches could be purchased on board for 25 cents which more or less resembled a shilling in those days. Weyburn was a town of approximately 7000 inhabitants situated between Saskatchewan’s capital city of Regina and the US border. It is one of Canada’s finest wheat-growing areas and a bit of a culture change from Glasgow. There were only a few paved roads, the remainder being either gravel or dirt tracks which resulted in the famous Saskatchewan ‘gumbo’ once the spring thaw arrived. Canada crossing Cars got stuck in it and – when you were walking on that type of surface – your shoes or boots would attract what y parents and I left was a games room which included a felt like a ton of the stuff. Southampton on November dart board and a table-tennis table and M18 1952 on board the Cunard it was here that I was taught how to When we arrived in Weyburn, winter liner, RMS Samaria, headed for put a spin on the ball, by the father of was on its way with temperatures Montreal. Two days out at sea, the another passenger my age. The father oftentimes dipping to 40 degrees Queen Mary, bound for New York, was a diamond cutter by trade and, below zero. Parkas, toques (woolly telegraphed the Samaria advising that upon arrival in Canada, all his luggage hats), mitts, and ear-muffs were she had encountered a severe storm was thoroughly searched by customs. appropriate winter garb – slightly and suggested that we alter our course Later, when we were on the train different clothing from Glasgow accordingly. This we did and headed heading for Western Canada, he told Academy haberdashery that Rowans north of our previous planned course. my father that he asked the customs or Pettigrew and Stevens sold. As a consequence, it took us three official whether he knew what a raw Subsequent to the spring thaw I was to extra days to reach our disembarkation diamond looked like. The official had experience a Saskatchewan summer point which was now changed to to admit that he didn’t. As they were with temperature soaring to 40 degrees Quebec City rather than Montreal as heading for Vancouver on Canada’s celcius, and lots of mosquitoes (bigger the St Lawrence River had already west coast, that family was to be on brother of midgies) and tomatoes that started its winter freeze. Had the the train two days longer than the grew to the size of grapefruit. Samaria endeavoured to reach Isaacs. Montreal, she may very well have Canadians are a very friendly bunch Upon arriving at Quebec City on become stuck in the ice and would and, as I have experienced in living November 26 1952 and walking down have had to remain until the spring and working in five of Canada’s ten the gangplank and on to Canadian soil thaw, which would no doubt have provinces, the Scots have been very for the first time, I remarked to my cost the Cunard Line a few extra welcome in this great country. father that Canada couldn’t be that thousand pounds. Indeed, Canada’s first two prime different from Scotland as I turned his ministers – Sir John A Macdonald and The Samaria crossing was great fun for attention to a large billboard Alexander Mackenzie – were both an eleven year old, especially not advertising Coca-Cola. having to go to school for a few Scots, so the country got off to a good After clearing customs, we were met weeks. There were movies shown at start. by a representative of the Presbyterian 10am and 10pm daily, so a friend of Since my arrival in Canada in 1952, Church in Canada and subsequently mine and I would take our leave of one classmate of the 1950-51 Transitus headed for Weyburn, Saskatchewan via our respective parents then head off to ‘C’ class, Raymond Mills, has the Canadian Pacific Railway. As an the purser’s office to obtain our free continually kept in touch. Raymond eleven year old, and having never tickets and enjoy the movie of the day. and his wife Alison usually meet my been on a train in Scotland for more wife Diane and me for a meal on our I had just learned to swim (at the than two hours at a time, I had great return trips to Scotland, the last one Whiteinch Baths) and was difficulty in accepting the fact that we being this past May. disappointed that the Samaria did not would be on the train for four full have a swimming pool. Still, there days. The trip seemed endless seeing – Drew Isaac (1954)

6 Etcetera The Western Club A HAVEN IN THE CITY Recent years have not been kind to Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Clubs in Glasgow. Names like the Kelvin Club, the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, the Press Club and the Carrick are now no more – victims of a combination of cultural change, short-term policy-making and decaying premises.

The Western Club has not only bucked this trend but has actually proved to be something of a safe haven for some Clubs that would otherwise have slipped out of existence as noiselessly as the decaying Carrick – an old sailing ship moored in Glasgow – slipped into the murky waters at Customs House Quay. Perhaps, however, the Western Club may also have disappeared had it not been for a combination of good luck and good judgement. And here David Roser (1958), Chairman of the Committee of Managers, can reasonably claim to have had a hand – although he is far too modest ever to make the point himself. David is only one of a healthy Glasgow Academical contingent, which includes Sir Mat Goodwin, now a trustee of the Western Club, in the total membership of almost 700. Over lunch in the well-appointed dining room, David explains that the Western was founded in 1825 ‘with sell of one of its fine paintings – valued David Roser (1958) outside the Western Club one main precept: to serve wine at £270,000 – to finance the much- without death in the bottle’ – a needed refurbishment. After a Nowadays the Club markets itself as a reference to the common practice of thrilling auction, the huge canvas of ‘Haven in the City’ – a place to come adulterating drinks with various North Berwick Links went for and meet others in civilised and noxious substances. With this rather £660,000 and the work could go sophisticated surroundings. But will modest aim, the Club has seen out the ahead. This – and the fact that the anti-social working practices and the last 184 years, moving in the process former ground-floor bar is now rented widespread availability of electronic from St Vincent Place to Buchanan commercially – ensures that members’ networking sites such as Linkedin Street and finding a home for the last subscriptions are kept to a minimum. eventually be the death of all clubs like forty years in a quiet corner of Royal And £470 seems very reasonable for a this? The answer from David Roser is Exchange Square – recently voted one joint husband and wife membership – an emphatic ‘No!’. of the ten most architecturally if both are over the age of 60 – when attractive squares in Europe. ‘We are seeing a great dumbing down one considers that the Western of society at the moment with fewer Over the years the Western has employs 24 members of staff, many of having the opportunity to talk face to merged with the Junior Club, the whom have to deal with the huge face, and to develop discussion. But New Club and the Kelvin Club – amount of administration brought on people will always want to socialise. which is when lady members first by our increasingly health-and-safety- And where better to do it than in such appeared – and has become the conscious culture. Some of the staff, pleasant surroundings in the heart of adopted home of RNVR Club like the Secretary and the Head Chef, the city with both food and (Scotland). By the mid-1990s, have been with the Club for over 30 accommodation as good as you could however, the club premises was years. Perhaps that’s the reason that so find at any four-star hotel?’ looking a little tired and the many of them know members by Committee of Managers decided to name. Where better indeed?

Etcetera 7 Westbourne School Section The Westbourne Grand Reunion Over 400 ‘Westbourne girls’ gathered in Glasgow on Saturday 24 October to prove that the spirit of Westbourne lives on. Below are just a few of the many pictures that Etcetera photographer Colin Gray took on the evening. You can see others by logging on at http://glasgowacademy.web-intouch.com/

8 Etcetera Engagements Updates

Debra Campbell (1991) Gail McNeill (1992) I just got engaged to my fella, David I left Westbourne after 6th year in Johnson, and we are currently 1992 – I was the last ever Head Girl! expecting our first baby on 28 I married Andrew Johnston on 19 July February next year. 2008 and I am now living in Aberdeen. I teach English at Mackie Ruth Baillie (1993) Academy in Stonehaven. I’m in touch To Ruth Donnelly (nee Baillie) and with a number of my classmates via her husband David, a son, Lewis Facebook and I’m really looking Jenson, born on 28 June 2009, a little forward to the reunion. Anyone else brother for Stephanie. can contact me on this e-mail address Deaths [email protected]. Lorna Cochrane (now Mirmelli) Doreen Kennedy (1936) (1986) Births On 17 August 2009, Doreen Cairns I have just moved back to Glasgow (nee Kennedy). after 12 years away, working abroad in Carla Boni (1992) Sheena Gillies (1966) Warsaw, Madrid and Amsterdam, and We have a new arrival – Fletcher Suddenly, on Friday 16 October 2009, then in London and Surrey. Now Bankhead born 28 August 2009, sister of, Morag, Helen and Edith. living in Bearsden with David and our weight 7lbs 8oz. Funeral in London. children Ross (5) and Eve (2).

Etcetera 9 Academical Club news

Senior Cricket Report 2009 Season 2009 did not prove particularly In the second half of the season, from last season. Highlights included memorable for any of Accies’ four however, things turned around. Raj Soman’s unbeaten 131* against Saturday teams. The 1st XI retained Accies played with a much smaller Cambusdoon and Rob Fornear’s its position in WDCU Division 1, but squad of about 14 regulars. The team consistent bowling which earned him only after a monumental late-season raced to the semi-final of the SCU 17 wickets. surge and some favourable results Trophy and won six of the last eight The 3rd and 4th XIs both competed elsewhere. The 2nd XI consolidated league games to rise to second from in the lowest league in the West, the its position in WDCU Division 2; the bottom and out of the drop-zone. WDCU Division 5. Once again, the 3rd XI once again missed out on Key factors were the batting 3rd XI played well, but squandered promotion by a narrow margin; and performances of Fraser Murray (398 important chances to finish outside the the 4th XI finished a creditable third runs), Richard Andrew (352 runs) and promotion spots. The 4th XI did itself from bottom. skipper Brian Dundas (350 runs); and proud to finish third bottom, with a the bowling performances of Richard draw against the 3rd XI providing the The section anticipated that this might Andrew (36 wickets, best bowling six highlight. Accies’ top Division 5 be a difficult year for the 1st XI, with for 12), Habib Zai (27 wickets) and batsmen were Myles Shields (299 a number of key players from previous newly-registered Pakistani professional runs), Raj Patel (244 runs) and Jim seasons having left, as well as the Zafar Ali (21 wickets). McLaren (176 runs). With the ball, decision being taken not to sign an Unfortunately, with a Western Union Myles Shields took 25 wickets, and overseas player to save money towards side being demoted from the National Haydn Gleed 19. upgrading the nets at New Anniesland. League, second last wasn’t enough to The first half of the season was Eventually, what could have been a ensure safety; Accies had to endure an characterised by uncertainty, with disastrous season for Accies finished in agonising fortnight for champions Accies using almost 30 different players mediocrity. If the 1st XI is able to Kelburne to win their play-off match and failing to record even a single rediscover its late-season form in 2010, and save Accies from forced relegation. victory. At this point the team was there are surely better things in store. rock-bottom with 20% of the available The 2nd XI had a solid – if not Neil Dowers (2005) points and staring relegation in the spectacular – season, finishing in sixth face. place, an improvement of one place

10 Etcetera Junior Cricket Convener’s Report

The tables above tell all – 33 means Cancelled/ Final over 40% fewer matches completed Competition Played Won Lost Tied Abandoned Placing this summer compared with 2008, Juniors (U18XI) mainly due to the awful weather in WDJCU Premier 10 4 6 0 5 6 of 9 late July/August. Not since 1998 have Juniors (U18XI) fewer matches been completed in a Cup 1 0 1 0 0 - season. Overall we lost twice as many Juniors (U18XI) matches as were won compared with Friendlies 0 0 0 0 1 - even results last year. Minors (U15XI) The Juniors (U18s), managed by WDJCU A 7 2 5 0 7 10 of 15 Wajid Bashir and Richard Andrew, Mini-Minors (U13XI) had another disappointing season WDJCU A 8 3 5 0 2 7 of 10 during which a total of 21 players Mini-Mites (U11XI) were used. The highlights were wins WDJCU A 7 2 5 0 6 10 of 14 over Greenock, Ferguslie, West of Totals for 2009 33 11 22 0 21 Scotland and Kilmarnock. However, Totals for 2008 56 28 27 1 17 extremely heavy defeats were inflicted by Clydesdale (three times – ouch!) http://www.cricketscotland.com/node produced a large total of wide balls. and Prestwick. Five of the washed- /11858. Although the norm is a team of eight players, in fact almost all of the Accies’ out matches, including once again the Dhruv Satpute achieved Western annual match against the Forty Club, teams consisted of ten players and the Junior Cricket Academy status, whilst various captains coped admirably with were in August, which I hear was the Zuhayr Siddiqui and Clemmie also third wettest on record! Nirvik the various fielding permutations turned out for Glasgow North Area required. Thomas Aston receives the Ganapathi wins the batting award U13s. whilst Euan Crawford took the batting award and Simon McAlpine- bowling honours. Nirvik Ganapathi, The Mini-Mites (U11s), with a squad Scott receives the bowling award – for Habib Malik and Ally Spike were all of twenty-two players and managed by the second year running! selected for the Glasgow U17 team to Colin Dawson, had another most My thanks go to the parents who play against Dumfries and Galloway enjoyable if unsuccessful season in offered support and transport to away but, sadly, the opposition failed to raise terms of results. Like the U15s the matches, to Hari for his coaching and a team. weather put paid to all the scheduled enthusiasm, to my other coaches and matches after 24 July – a complete managers, namely Richard Andrew The Minors (U15s), managed by disaster for a group of youngsters Tracy Allen, had an indifferent set of and Waj Bashir, Tracy Allen and desperate just to play a game of Farhaj Siddiqui and Raj Soman, and results although the weather hit the cricket! Talent is again there but lads severely with no match completed finally to Robert Cheape and his staff requires nurturing. Batting, like last for the usual excellent pitches. Let us after 24 July. A total of eighteen year, was again ineffective with great youngsters turned out for this team just hope that next season is a lot drier difficulty in making contact with the than 2009! during the season. Ewan Stewart – in moving ball whilst most matches his only club innings – fell six runs Colin Dawson (1967) short of his maiden century against Belmont Street Bridge by Alice Goldie, age 16 Hillhead. Chris Allen collected the batting award whilst Alasdair Ferguson grabbed the bowling award. Chris Allen, Andrew Allen, Suhaib Siddiqui and Ewan Stewart were all selected for Glasgow North Area U15s. The Mini-Minors (U13s) by their standards had a poor season and were again managed by Farhaj Siddiqui. A squad of twenty-eight players turned out during the season. Dhruv Satpute collected both the batting and bowling awards showing genuine all-round abilities. Clemmie Mitchell has been invited to attend a Scotland U15 Development Squad and is mentioned in dispatches at

Etcetera 11 Men’s Hockey The Accie who

Both teams had excellent seasons with defence all year and Rory, our new missed ‘the first some great results, league success and surprise super-goalie. Over the season four minute mile’ new players joining the fold. The 1st the team really developed and gelled XI narrowly missed out on winning and they picked up some fantastic wins the league after a top-of-the-table and finished an extremely respectable n a lifetime there are not many clash with Strathclyde University on sixth out of twelve, providing real opportunities to witness a world the last day of the season; however, optimism for next season. Irecord – let alone a world record that broke a seemingly impossible they did earn promotion to the West I would like to thank everyone for District 1st Division from the second barrier. However that’s exactly what their hard work, passion and happened to former Glasgow place spot. Notable top-class commitment shown over the last performances from Ben at the back Academical Club president Ian Muir twelve months and I look forward to on 6 May 1954, a date etched in the and the Aussie duo of Chris and another enjoyable season ahead. The Brendon contributed to some fantastic minds of all middle-distance runners. club are always looking for new Yes, and he missed it! showings and goals any internationalist players, young and old; if you would would be proud of. like any further information, please Ian was at Oxford in the early 1950s The 2nd XI also had a very useful visit and fell in with some august company season, furthering some of the more w w w. g l a s g o w a c c i e s m e n s h c . y o l a s i t e . c o m – Messrs Bannister, Brasher and experienced players’ careers as well as or e-mail: Chataway by name – a trio who on welcoming some new ones from the g l a s g o w a c c i e s @ h o c k e y m a i l . c o m that windy May evening accomplished school: Johnny who was solid in something quite special. In these Stuart Ward (1998) Corinthian days this trio did not go through the preparation of today’s elite but, for their era, they trained very Glasgow Accies Mini-Rugby Section hard focusing on quality sessions under coach Franz Stamphl. Last season saw over seventy boys tournament in March; the P5 team playing Mini-Rugby at New were runners-up at our tournament. On the great day, Ian joined them for Anniesland on Sunday mornings. They also had the honour of lunch at Vincent’s – a gentlemen’s There were good numbers at all year representing the Club in front of a club whose members are elected from group levels from P3 through to P7 crowd of several thousand at Firhill, in the affiliates of Oxford University. It and all the teams had some success an exhibition match at half time was founded by WB Woodgate of throughout the season. The P7 team during a Glasgow Warriors game and Brasenose College in 1863, with the were winners of the Lenzie P7 they won! The P4 team were runners aim of bringing together the leading tournament; the P6 team were up at our tournament, and the P3 men from across the Undergraduate winners of their age group at our own team won their age groups at both the class. Since then, Vincent’s has upheld GHK and Strathendrick tournaments. its strong tradition of uniting those By the end of the season all our teams members of the University who have looked great in their new Accies strips. excelled in sport and who would contribute to the Club’s character. Other highlights of the year included a trip to Murrayfield for the Scotland v There was much chat as to whether Italy game with over eighty mums, the attempt would go ahead as dads and children, and the return of conditions were not ideal, but the Glasgow Accies tournament after Bannister knew that both Wes Santee an absence of five years. The P7 team the ‘Kansas Cannonball’ and Australian joined up with GHK to form a ‘Mini John Landy were both closing in on Hawks’ team for a tour to Wales. this historic goal. Quite a number of our P7 boys have However this did not seem quite to now moved on to midi-rugby with register with Ian who – instead of Hawks and we wish them all the best. going to Iffley Road that night – The Club has had great support from decided to go and watch the great all the parents, whether as coaches, Freddie Trueman of Yorkshire who supporters or in helping with post- was at his peak bowling against match refreshments. Oxford at The Parks. For more information contact Stuart As they say, the rest is history – and at Neilson on 07771 845104 or look at that time there were no action replays our website at to watch, unless you picked it up on www.glasgowacciesminirugby.co.uk the Pathe News! Cleveden Road by Catherine Reid, age 16 Stuart Neilson Hugh Barrow (1962)

12 Etcetera Events Kelvin Foundation Inaugural Lunch wenty members of The Kelvin Foundation and their guests attended the first formal T meeting of the Foundation on 24 September, hosted by the Rector, Peter Brodie. Reception drinks were served on arrival in the Rector’s Study, followed by lunch in the External Relations suite in Colebrooke Terrace. After lunch, the Senior Boys’ choir performed a number of pieces to great acclaim, the Rector updated the group on achievements and major events and GAWMT Chairman Gordon Jack thanked all those who have supported development at The Academy. Proceedings concluded with an entertaining vote of thanks from Alastair Rolland (1947). There are currently thirty-five members of The Kelvin Foundation. Membership is by invitation, to those in the school community who have indicated their support in the form of a legacy or who have already pledged and/or given significant support to The Academy. If you would like more information on membership, please contact Mark Taylor: [email protected]

The Dallachy Lecture 2009

regory King (1986) gave the Mathon is now one of the UK’s they enjoyed his self-deprecating style. Dallachy Lecture in The Cargill leading asset-based lenders in the Some of the key factors that Gregory GHall on 22 October. He spoke commercial property sector. noted were perseverance, hard work, on ‘success’. After nine years at the confidence, vigilance and Glasgow Academy, Gregory studied Gregory addressed a large audience in determination. He also stressed the law at Glasgow University and worked an easy-to-follow, conversational importance of knowing what you for McGrigor Donald before taking a manner and highlighted key factors want, ‘what you really, really want!’ position with an American investment crucial to his success. He particularly and encouraged the pupils to take firm in London. He then studied for addressed the pupils and under-21 advantage of the great opportunities at an MBA at the Chicago Business group in the audience but his message Glasgow Academy, to ensure that they School before setting up his own was appreciated by all who attended; a too, enjoy success in their chosen field. investment business, Mathon Limited. number mentioned afterwards that

Etcetera 13 Forthcoming The Cargill Ball Events 12 June 2010 On 1 April 1958, just six months after the Dedication of the Cargill Hall, the 4 December 2009 1979 Reunion inaugural ‘Spring Ball’ was held. At that first event of its kind in the school’s 19 December 2009 1999 Reunion new Assembly Hall, 292 Academicals and parents danced and dined for the benefit of the New Stand Fund at Anniesland. ‘The Easter Ball’ (as it was 12 June 2010 The Cargill Ball known by 1960) became a popular annual event. For details, please contact External Some fifty years later, on 6 June of this year, The Gordon Mackay Memorial Relations. We would also be Dinner and Dance was a great success and proved The Cargill Hall is still a great particularly interested to hear from venue. It has therefore been decided to hold a similar event for Academicals and pupils who left in 1950, 1960, 1970, Academy families next year. The Cargill Ball will take place on Saturday 12 1980 or 2000 so that we can make June. An organising committee has been formed and full details will appear in reunion plans for next year. the next edition of Etcetera.

New Transitus library

‘Little things often make a big difference.’

Wise words. It didn’t take much to make a big difference to Transitus pupils. A few hundred pounds was all it took to buy enough books to turn a dead space into a living library – a place for silent study and, occasionally, joyful laughter. Thank you for your gift. It made all the difference.

14 Etcetera The pipe major wins another dram...

Back in Hong Kong, in 1980, I made a visit to The Queen’s Own Highlanders, who were then based at Stanley Fort – a lovely old barracks, overlooking the South China Sea. I went to seek help and advice from their Pipe Major, Nick Gordon. Having finished our business, he very kindly invited me to the Sergeants’ Mess for a libation.

On entering the Mess, one was Having a bawl! confronted by a huge oil painting, The Glasgow Academy Inter-House Singing Competition is a time when pupils depicting one of the regiment’s early can let their hair down and really enjoy singing. Looks like that’s exactly what battles. I expressed admiration for the young Finlay Watson – son of Glasgow Master Printer John Watson (1964) – is painting, so Pipe Major Nick doing. Despite his best efforts, Finlay’s house didn’t win, but that didn’t enlightened me… matter – he had a bawl! ‘Aye, Sur, that’s the famous painting of the 79th Cameron Highlanders at the Pencil shavings and possibilities... battle of Waterloo. It shows Piper Vic Hadcroft once memorably forgave me for lobbing water bombs at a Greek Kenneth McKay playing outside the petrol station attendant during a school trip to Athens. Regimental square, during an attack by Funny, firm and fair, it’s no exaggeration to say that he was one of the best the cuirassiers.’ teachers I ever had. When The Academy recently announced his retirement, and indicated that it planned to auction off his classroom’s original wooden desks for I mumbled something about McKay’s charity, I had to buy one. bravery. The Pipe Major continued: ‘Aye, he was brave all right, but the Lifting its burnished lid, I could smell pencil shavings and possibilities. Vic’s desk is now in my son’s bedroom at our home near Watford. Watching James sitting artist has made a grave error. I’ll bet at it, doing his homework, I wonder what kind of man he will grow up to be – you a wee dram that you canna’ spot and when he will meet ‘his’ Vic Hadcroft. the mistake.’

Simon Dickson (1987) I studied the picture carefully, but could see nothing wrong. I started guessing, remarking that, perhaps, the piper’s flashes were out of line; that his bonnet was on squint…etc…etc. After a while, I admitted defeat.

‘Well Sur; McKay was actually playing ‘Cogadh-no-Sith’, a famous pibroch. Look again at the picture. The artist has him playing an ‘F’ note. Well, there’s no ‘F’ in th’on Pibroch.’

Who was I to argue? The Pipe Major won his dram (yet again?) and, it was quite obvious that, the long departed Piper McKay was still playing for the ‘home team’! George Mackenzie (1959)

Etcetera 15 How to half-succeed at the Academy s I am now 90 years of age, I rivers and bays of the British Isles by school. This was a body blow to the have presumed the liberty to rote plus a shockingly distorted whole ethos of the Academy where Awrite what I like. I hope nationalist history of Scotland. The rugby had always been more important nobody still alive will feel insulted by only terrifying ordeal was ‘Beaky’ than academic prowess. To our horror what I have written. During the Carr, the writing master, who used to the new Rector didn’t seem to know autumn of 1928 when I was 9, I was prowl up and down his double much about rugby. His main told somewhat breathlessly by my dear classroom lashing the ends of the desks academic degree was in music and mother that I had been ‘accepted for with his strap. I was so frightened that when he turned out to try to referee the Academy.’ As she had recently I won a certificate for writing (or an inter-class match in which I was been reading Greek mythology to me, rather copying in a kind of tracing playing, he actually wore sandshoes. it sounded as if I were bound for book) for two years running. Needless to say we quickly engulfed Mount Olympus or at least Athens, him in a loose scrum so that we could Sadly my first year in senior school but gradually I realised that I was to stamp on his unprotected feet. was a dismal failure. I had been attend my father’s old school. My Everything Roydon Richards did was looking forward to learning Latin, but recent education at Atholl Cottage, the initially unpopular, but nevertheless a cold bloodless person called the Rev. predecessor of Atholl Prep. had been was good for the school and saved it Bolton rapidly dissipated my early wide and interesting, but now it was from the decay of old age. To my enthusiasm. In the second year my discovered that I could neither read surprise I won the Temple Prize for Latin was temporarily rescued by a nor spell. I was, and still am, dyslexic scripture with a winning mark of 43% master called Swan and I actually won but this infirmity had not been during this year. a prize, but then I was subjected to the invented in 1928. Immediate steps three terrible majors – Mallam, Reid So I drifted on. I managed to stay in were taken to submerge me in special and Batchelor. Each may have been a the ‘A’ stream for English but other tuition, but this was of little avail. splendid person in his own right but as subjects melted away. My parents had So during August 1929 my mother far as teaching me was concerned, they decided that I should do modern and I reported at the Academy and were lethal. Mallam was one of the languages instead of science and if were shown by the janitor into what most boring persons I have ever met, dyslexia interferes with English, this is was then Room A. It was a dark and Reid was a decent hail fellow well met nothing to what it does to foreign musty room, its ancient school desks sort of person who had served with languages. I was still a year older than covered with the carvings of countless my father during the war, and the class average and to make matters past generations of penknives. It was Batchelor was just raving bonkers! He worse I stopped growing when now full of a motley collection of destroyed my interest in Latin with a everybody else was shooting up like mothers and sons presided over by the flourish. For a dyslexic, the teaching jacks in the box. In 1934 I joined the formidable and terrifying Doctor methods at the Academy were pipe band and became a very average Temple, who did not believe in hopeless. I remember only three piper. I wanted to get on with playing secretaries and wrote everything down masters with any respect or affection; the tunes while good pipers in a large notebook. He was alleged George Preston whom I adored and concentrate on obtuse twirlings called to remember the names of every boy who gave me a life long interest in doublings and grace notes. In 1935 as who had attended school during his history, ‘Beery’ Barradell-Smith who part of the rearmament programme, term of office, which went back to gave me a sound grounding in English the war office decided that every cadet 1899. Sure enough, he enquired language and literature, and ‘Bob’ corps must have a signal platoon. The whether I was the son of James, my Runcieman who got maths into me – commander of our cadet corps, who I father, or Harry my uncle. After mostly by osmosis. think was my old bête noir Major inspecting my miserable attempt to Mallam, decided that the pipe band Then came the revolution of 1933 write his dictated paragraph and should double as our signal platoon. with the new Rector, Frank Roydon listening to my faltering efforts to read, So off we went once a week to be Richards. He set out to modernise he was subjected for a few moments to trained as signallers. I found ‘signals’ the school, which was long overdue. my mother’s explanation of what a fascinating and in due course became In next to no time, the class names wide knowledge I had of current the signal sergeant. When we were a and numbers had been changed, the affairs. Then fixing my mother with a pipe band the pipe-major was in curriculum had been ‘streamed’ so that steely glare he announced, ‘What we charge and when we were a one could be in a different class for signal want at the Academy, Mrs Walker, is a every subject, assembly was moved platoon, I was in charge. When I left sound grounding in the three Rs – from the gymnasium to the well in the school in 1938 I joined the Officer reading, writing and arithmetic.’ So I Cadet Reserve specially designated for middle of the school, there was a new was demoted to Second English where the Royal Corps of Signals with school badge, a new school song, a the average age was 12 months whom I spent my war years and geography master and of all things a younger than mine! picked up a military MBE. music master. Most drastic of all, the The first two years in Junior School captain of the 1st rugby XV was no In 1935 things started to improve. were not bad. We learned the capes, longer automatically the captain of the George Preston introduced the new

16 Etcetera Left: 3rd English Class 1930/31. RS Walker is 3rd from left, top/back row

Below: Form V 1937/38. RS Walker is extreme right, 3rd row from the front. To his right is Ian McRobert (historian) and Alan MacNaughtan (actor). 2nd right in the row in front is HM Black rugby philosophy of wing forwards In summary I passed my leaving music master to tea at our house on and I became a member of the 4th XV certificate with the minimum of Sundays. That I was always too old in this position and in the following subjects at the second attempt. I got for my class oppressed me greatly and year was promoted to the 2nd XV. my 1st XV cap, but in a year when we yet there is no other school I would Then in 1936 the axe fell when my won only 2 out of 15 games. I should have wished to attend and I am very parents received a letter saying I was have been pipe-major, but I wasn’t a proud to be a Glasgow Academical. not considered suitable to attempt the good enough piper – still I was the In retrospect I must have learned leaving certificate examination. My first ever signals sergeant. I was vice something because, without blowing mother collected her handbag in rage captain of my class in both my junior my trumpet too much, I was chief and descended on the Rector. After school years, but could not be a instructor of the Central promises of extra tuition etc. I was prefect because I was never in the Mediterranean Forces School of allowed to sit and in the event passed sixth form. I emerged with a motley Signals when I was 25 and Mining Higher English Language, Higher collection of two junior school class Director of Rio Tinto, then arguably English Literature, History, Geography prizes, prizes for Latin and Scripture, a the largest mining company in the and Higher Maths, but failed in Lower certificate for gymnastics because world, when I was 65. So to all, who French and German. In those days it Coleman Smith liked me and a are now half-successful at the was all or nothing and thus I failed. I certificate for music, because my Academy: it can lead somewhere! wanted to leave school, but my father mother kept asking the young new Ronnie Walker (1929 to 1938) asked me how I was going to earn my living and suggested it might be by sweeping the streets. So I had to go back and try again. But now I was two years above the average age for my class. My young brother who was clever and a year in advance for his age, was now in the class below me although he was 4 years younger. I had to resign from the pipe band because my seniority automatically made me pipe-major, but I was not a good enough piper to hold this position. However I compensated myself that I was bound to be in the 1st XV. But even here I found myself locked in competition with my good friend Charlie Dobson and only came out on top after a titanic effort. I finally passed all my higher subjects again plus lower French and German and emerged from the Academy just two months before my 19th birthday.

Etcetera 17 Moreton Black remembered

oreton Black – whose obituary is printed in the Chronicle – holds a unique place in the history of Glasgow Academy. School Captain in 1939, he returned to his old school after war service and a first-class degree at St Andrews MUniversity. After a brief spell in Tasmania he returned again to The Academy where he quickly rose to the position of Head of Modern Languages and there he was to remain until his retirement in 1986. He died in July of this year. We asked Morty’s former pupils and former colleagues for their memories of the man and were overwhelmed by the response. Sadly, space does not allow us to reprint everyone’s contribution in full, but you can find much fuller tributes on the GA connected website http://glasgowacademy.web-intouch.com/ initiative proposed and sympathetic to My mother and I have been An esteemed colleague any problem arising. With Chris privileged to read the many It was in a crowded car park at the old Varley as Second Master but still tributes to my late father, Moreton Glasgow Airport that I first met determined to teach sixth-form Black, prior to them being Morty, who was giving up a day of his linguists in his own inimitable way, published in this wonderful Easter holiday, 1965, to welcome and Morty was free of that responsibility magazine. We have been very interview an exile hoping to return to and able to concentrate on teaching Higher and ‘O’ Grade French and touched to learn just how highly the city with which he had many links. I knew nothing of Glasgow German (grounded in his PoW regarded he was by you all. Academy except its reputation. So experience). ‘Varley & Black’ was one Indeed we learned a few things Morty showed me around and took of the standard texts for senior French about him that we had not known me to lunch at the old Hubbards. Can classes. Many an Academical who before. Your anecdotes will be you imagine him not convincing a never claimed to be a linguist must passed to my brother Douglas in newcomer that The Academy was the look back gratefully on the solid Canada and to my sisters Rosemary ideal school and the Modern grounding and surprisingly good GCE and Tiki in England. Thank you all Languages Department a welcoming, results he got, thanks to Morty; and he very much for taking the time to well-staffed unit in which to work? I may to this day be able to recite parts write in. Dad was – and I believe knew from meeting him, more than of Daudet’s ‘La Chèvre de Monsieur from my formal interview with the Seguin’. When audio-visual French still is – a legend at Glasgow Rector, that I wanted the job and had was being widely advocated by the Academy. Should any of my old found a Head of Department with French authorities he sent me to school friends wish to contact me, whom it would be easy to build a Antibes on the Côte d’Azur for an my e-mail address is good working relationship. I could intensive course (in intensive [email protected]. not know then that I had also met a sunshine!) and ‘Bonjour, Line’ was I would be delighted to hear life-long friend. soon introduced to Transitus classes. from you. A language lab. followed in due course As a senior colleague Morty was ever and GA was up with the latest Graham Black (1967) an encourager, a model of efficiency, technology to assist Modern Language reassurance and tact, supportive of any teaching.

18 Etcetera The Easter trip to Paris and the Loire ...When I think about it now, I have Academy, despite terrific competition was already an institution for junior to say that they were just very good for that accolade. By then, he was classes long before skiing trips or art teachers and very good, loving people. Head of the Modern Languages and music tours became a counter- Can you even begin to imagine their Department and I was fortunate to be attraction. Year after year under reserves of patience? Specifically, I taught both German and French by Morty’s watchful eye, with different remember Morty introducing us to him in the years I sat my ‘O’ Grades colleagues to assist and sometimes his ‘Bonjour Lynne’ and ‘le bol de Lyn est and Highers. He was a hard wife Marion, a coach-load dutifully bleu clair’ and I remember the sixteen taskmaster, but his incredible zest for did the rounds of the main sights of (or so) reflexive verbs which required life, infectious sense of humour, Paris, with an occasional hiccup when, conjugation with ‘etre’ (+ circumflex?) passion for excellence and love for his from a hotel window, surplus bread as opposed to ‘avoir’ and, which subject, not to mention his pupils, all became a missile aimed at pedestrians subsequently required ‘concordance’, translated into an educator who truly below. I was reminded of the Army in terms of number and gender. mastered the art of bringing out the Officer sharing every hardship with his (Something, up with which our very best in his students. I consider it men when (was it at Blois?) Morty relatively benign friend ‘avoir’ did not a great honour to have been one of realised that the boys were being have to put!) And so on. them and I will remember him fondly served with different food from the for all my days. At the time, it all flowed quickly and staff; he soon put a stop to that. If smoothly over my head. Many, many Kevin Lilburn (1984) Versailles was the highlight for most, years down the line ...jings, crivvens, Morty’s favourite location was surely The year he was Captain of the School help ma boab!... suddenly it all makes L’Hôtel de la Poste at Tours, long he appeared, after prayers, on the sense. since demolished – as we anticipated platform appealing for us to turn out when there – its owner, the venerable I have spent the last 30-odd years to support the first fifteen who were Monsieur Tardy, presiding generously working in an international sales role playing High School the following day at the bar or explaining the virtues of and I have used the linguistic skills at Old Anniesland. Later that year he some unfamiliar dish to be served to us initially developed in me by Moreton read the lesson in the Cathedral at the that evening. Amboise, Chambord, Black, in Latin America, in Africa, in Commemoration Service. At that Chenonceaux and other châteaux each Spain and now, where I live, in Italy... time the service was always held on claimed the group’s attention for an the last Friday of the summer term. Iain Leith (1972) hour or two, Morty preparing us for Alan Diack (1945) the main features of the next visit I am really very saddened indeed to which he knew by heart. He was hear of the death of Moreton Black. ‘Morty’ Black was my French teacher familiar with a number of the guides He was one of the key influences for a couple of years at the school and and could ill-conceal his exasperation (among many other excellent masters) certainly one of my favourites. I still when we were allocated one of the during my time at The Academy. He miss his regular end-of-term regaling over-loquacious variety who might was very strict and demanded a high about his escape from a Nazi war make no allowance for a young standard from his pupils, however he camp during WWII! schoolboy’s limited comprehension was very greatly respected and held in Robin Duff (1990) and vocabulary. great affection. I well recall that he ensured you did your homework by ...It was a summer’s day and lunchtime In France, as in the classroom, a firm applying a strict regime with the belt saw the playing of a crucial match in but ever-kindly manner characterised for those who failed tests on the school tennis tournament. The Morty’s relationship with the boys, homework preparation – it certainly defending champ was Morty’s son whose respect and affection were clear did the trick early on in the term! Dougie, and he was playing someone for all to see and which would elicit (sorry, I don’t remember who) in our appreciative comment from other I would like, as would many of his French class… a potentially one-sided tourists. An annual party at his home former pupils I am sure, for you to affair, given that Dougie was a year or in Ralston Road for his departmental pass on our condolences to his family. two older than us. Amazingly, the staff, their wives and families, was the He is someone I will never forget younger player won and as it occasion of generous hospitality, from my school days at The Academy; happened we had French straight after thanks to the ever-supportive Marion’s a great influence for good and for high lunch. We couldn’t wait to give culinary skills, and a chance to meet standards. Morty the grievous news. ‘Sir, sir’ we the younger generation of Blacks, Allan Alstead (1954) all clamoured as he came in – whose subsequent outstanding careers ‘A.N.Other beat Dougie in the Tennis brought much satisfaction to caring School tennis team circa 1962. Morty tournament’. Morty looked aghast, parents. Morty’s total dedication to Black....’the mental is to the physical is stunned into silence. He fixed the boy the school was appropriately echoed in as two is to one’. So is life! in his gaze and approached him slowly. the playing of the School Song as he Alan K Burnett (1964) ‘You beat Dougie?…You must come was carried to his final resting place for tea!’ I have used this often over under the Campsie Fells. For me, Morty Black was peerless as a the years whenever I’ve been in need teacher, and certainly the outstanding F Graham Little (former Academy of the ultimate accolade. teacher of my time at Glasgow staff) Steve Butler (1977)

Etcetera 19 I haven’t any specific memories of Moreton Black, except that I was always amused by his pronunciation of the word ‘boy’, which came out as ‘bye’. ‘Who are those byes over there?’ he would say... He and his wife, Marion, were always very kind to Gordon Carruthers and myself after our marathon rehearsals of the Christmas pantomimes on Friday evenings in the Michaelmas Term, when we would be invited on our way home (we both lived in Bearsden) to a most wonderful dinner with the Black family... John Horrex (former Academy staff) Moreton Black was a tremendous enthusiast for both foreign languages and rugby. I have a great memory of his combining both these passions during one of our French lessons that took place on the eve his taking us to the Scotland versus France fixture at Murrayfield way back in 1974. The whole lesson was devoted to ensuring we could sing La Marseillaise during our trip the following day. I’m to an audio-lingual approach. In spite teacher and a great character. I can still pleased to say that our rousing of his suspicion of ‘modernism’, hear him saying with utter glee the rendition did nothing to spur on the Moreton very generously allowed me German for the masculine accusative French – Scotland won 19 – 6. I can one year to take 5a French i.e. the top comparative form of the word still sing it to this day! Higher set which he usually claimed as ‘brave’...tapfererER. And he always his own. To my relief, the results did felt compelled to join in with the Torquil Macnaughton (class of 1979) not cause any red faces... frequent spontaneous class outbursts of the song Die Lorelei. Mr Black took me on a school trip to Roy de C Chapman France, which included visits to some (former Academy staff) Ivan Mavor (1985) of the Loire castles, as well as Paris. We fetched up in Blois one day, a I’m sad to hear that Morty has died; ...he was a teacher ahead of his time. town in the Loire region. The local we were talking about him at our His German classes in the attic of The oompah band were performing for reunion earlier this year. I remember a Academy were an experience in some event, with a grand banner couple of things about him during my relaxed learning. His informal proclaiming HMB (Harmonie time at The Academy, but the best approach compelled attention and Municipale de Blois) which were also was being on one of the visits to Paris encouraged participation, a strategy the initials of Mr Black – HM Black. and Tours with him. I must admit it not common in 1949. His sense of HMB himself was tickled and claimed was educational (after it, I could bore humour was never far from the that the band had mustered in his anyone on the chateaux of the Loire) surface, another attribute not always honour. and very enjoyable. associated with either teaching or German. We learnt more than Derek Neilson (1965) Mark Bissett (1972) German in his class. Tolerance was an Moreton Black was my Head of I can recall when we went to Cannes important by-product. He was a Department at The Academy when I on a school trip that Morty and memorable example at an arrived as the new Rector in ‘Cheesy’ Lamond the other French impressionable time of my life... teacher came back from a night out September 1975. We came from very Walter Gumprich (1950) different modern language and gave us an hilarious demonstration backgrounds: I had been Head of about how to use the squat toilets, I remember Morty Black with the Modern Languages at my previous without losing all your possessions greatest affection. He was always very school. Moreton was very much the down the hole, and the perils of protective of my brother Colin and traditionalist in his teaching – grammar scoring a bulls-eye! me in our run-ins with some of the other masters. We were regular bashing and vocabulary lists. I Jerry Rowbury (1974) thoroughly applauded his emphasis on participants in his European trips and the necessity of learning the I was very to sorry to hear of Morty my first glimpse, in his charge, of the fundamentals, but I was more inclined Black’s death. He was a fantastic Mediterranean was a revelation that

20 Etcetera has affected my life ever since... He after the night we discovered that I was fortunate to be taught Higher was a true European and infectiously Carlsberg Special was half the price of French by Morty Black in the mid so. A typical act of kindness was his Coca-cola... 70s. One day he was keen to visiting our father in hospital to cheer demonstrate to the class the difference Brian D Keighley (1966) him up following major surgery... between hiding something and hiding I was very sorry to hear of Mr Black’s oneself – cacher and se cacher of Alastair Winter (1965) death. He taught me French for course. An explanation would have In September 1960, ‘Morty’ Black was several years, and helped develop in sufficed – we were not idiots but, no, my first encounter with Academy staff. me a love of France and the French he had to show us in dramatic fashion He was my House Master (Arthur), language. I was in the same class as his the meaning of se cacher. He threw French teacher and inspiration. Morty son, Graham, and indeed Mr Black open the big brown door of Room K was a gentle-man. He did not revert arranged for us to join a merchant ship and secreted himself behind it. At that to the belt or lose his temper... He during the summer between leaving precise moment Wing Commander also sat at the head of (my) Table 12 in school and going to university. I Waine entered the room to see a class the Dining Hall. In the early 60s, this remember we spent an awfully long full of boys but no teacher. Morty was graced by people like Neil time sitting in a dirty iron ore carrier then sheepishly appeared from behind McGregor, Michael Hirst and Ian and in Port Talbot marvelling at the ability the door to great delight amongst Ronnie Graham. There, he would of the crew, mainly Scots, to drink those of us in S5 at the time. God always engage us in a wide range of literally gallons of beer and stay on bless him! conversation and was always happy to their feet, and watching England win Tommy Gemmill (1976) start an argument/debate! the World Cup. Then we sailed to Sweden and back. ...I got to know him a bit better on an Douglas P Macnaughtan (1965) enjoyable school trip to France. The Andrew McCracken (1966) Very sad to hear about Morty Black hotel in Paris was a bit of a dump, and and have fond memories of his French I was in Mr Black’s last Transitus the group was short one room, with classes. His style was old school where French class in 1985-86, and both no obvious solution. I was on the trip if you repeated the verb 100 times enjoyed and greatly valued the with my twin brother Chris, so guess then perhaps it would stick in the experience. He was a teacher whose who drew the short straw! Chris and memory. Enjoyed his war time reputation preceded him; whispered I slept together in this tiny bed, facing stories, often for the umpteenth time, stories used to circulate about how he in different directions so that we and his passion for school sport was had learnt German in a POW camp in would fit in! This experience was legendary. If he had seen our school World War II, and specifically that at useful forty years later, when I had a rugby match that weekend, Monday one point he had overheard two little miniature schnauzer which we lessons would start with an analysis of guards discussing whether or not they foolishly allowed to sleep on our bed – my kicking style and he would give a ought to kill him. I don’t know how as you dog-lovers may know, it is very able demonstration of where I true this last detail was – the story had amazing how much room a tiny dog was going wrong. probably become slightly embellished can take up!... over the years! – but I think most of Stuart Simmers (1986) Rod Little (1968) us wanted it to be true, as it gave ...Whatever went on in Room K, Morty a sense of mystery that was Morty taught me French and German however, was complemented by the unmatched by any other teacher. and I remember him with great school foreign trips he organised. I affection. Legends abound about him. Aidan Thomson (1992) remember over successive years going As Battalion Intelligence Officer to Paris and the Loire (twice), the I was saddened to hear of Morty’s allegedly he (not very intelligently) got Rhineland, Rome and Capri, and recent death as he was a great teacher. himself captured during WW2, but Cannes (twice). I remember the joys My main recollection of Morty is, I turned this to his advantage by of four-in-a-cabin British Rail sleepers, am afraid, unprintable and relates to a learning German from his guards seeing Frank Ifield from the Gods at throw-away remark he made during a whilst in captivity. He certainly the London Palladium, the joys of French class about the emblem on the enjoyed the ‘minute test’ (his own sweaty feet in continental couchettes French rugby team shirt. The entire invention) where boys had to rhyme and the constant rule that we all had class fell about in hysterics and I don’t off a French reflexive verb in all its to buy and wear at all times wide- really think he picked up on what he tenses (I can’t remember how many brimmed, straw sunhats. We all had actually said! He did, however, tenses) in one minute. Our class looked like the Mafia in shorts and t- take the ensuing hysterics with good record was held by Amit Allahabadia shirts. grace. at 29 seconds. I was not too far behind at 30-something! Niall Lindsay (1975) Two abiding memories remain: the Paolo Capanni (1986) night in Paris in April 1961 when I remember Morton Black’s Morty called us all together and formidable Friday French vocabulary My memories are mainly sporting: in announced that someone called Yuri tests. Such useful words as le chenet the early days of him helping with the Gagarin had just orbited the earth, and (the fire-dog) stay with one for ever! coaching of rugby and cricket; of him the retribution in Capri the morning as a tennis player of great craft relying David Ure (1965)

Etcetera 21 on drop shots and spin; as a stylish remember, although he discouraged example, waiting for an overdue train, cricketer playing in the staff match detailed questioning of his days in the and wanting something to recite to against the boys and against Kelvinside country during the war. The song oneself to help pass the time. (It was staff. I also remember him as an ‘Non ho l’eta’ had recently won also a useful ‘party piece’ when in the expert philatelist with a huge Eurovision, in the days when company of French friends.)... collection of his own and running the Eurovision contests actually judged Alexander Pollock (1963) stamp club for very many years... songs. I can still remember many of the words, and actually used the I have the best memories of Mr Black Ken Waine (former Academy staff) language later in life without any as our form teacher. He taught two I remember Morty Black very well. further study, so it must have rubbed generations of Masseys – my father The main language teacher in those off. Colin Massey, my Uncle Turner days was Chris Varley – an Massey, my brother Brian Massey and On another occasion, our German extraordinary linguist who had me… language lesson included translating a competences in Classical languages as radio report of the building of the Scott Massey (1989) well as modern, who had facility in Berlin Wall. The ‘Stacheldraht und French, German, Russian, Slav I was sorry to hear of Morty Black - I Betonmauer’ returned to haunt me languages, Celtic languages such as have so many fond memories of Morty some 20 years later, when as an RAF Manx and Gaelic etc - but Morty - from being my form tutor in second officer I found myself working in the Black was also a very fine teacher who year - to our French trip - to him British Commanders’ in Chief Mission taught with great clarity and patience watching our year group playing rugby to the Soviet Forces in Germany, and unravelled the mysteries of the (even when the 1st XV were playing a which allowed me access to both sides irregular and reflexive verbs that so few pitches away). For some reason he of that wall (and as a pilot, over the infect French... He is remembered by followed our rugby team from 2nd top of it as well!). me with regard and gratitude. year all the way through to the Firsts Tempus fugit! and always chatted about the game on David Keddie (1958) a Monday morning. However my David Cockburn (1965) It is indeed sad news about Moreton most lasting memory was receiving the Black. What never ceases to amaze French with Moreton Black was a slipper from Morty. The slipper was an me is, although the school years are so lesson in the timetable to relish. His oversized (size 13 I think) gym shoe few in number, the profound positive bright, first-floor classroom was an which was administered only for the influence they have on the rest of appropriate setting for lessons that most serious offences such as doodling one’s life, something that is not fully were memorable because you came or window-gazing during French appreciated when ‘in the moment’. away knowing more of the language lessons - the thwacks of the slipper Moreton Black certainly held to but also more about life, the universe were given in doses of five - not as consistently high standards of academic and everything. Thirty years on, the serious as the standard 'six of the ...' performance and was a key part of that phrase ‘Ici Poitiers, ici Poitiers. Arrêt but much more effective than just influence. de cinq minutes!’comes to mind three. That said I did on one occasion because of the inimitable way that it receive six - the extra one for not Alistair Scott (1981) was delivered by Moreton and because throwing the ball straight into the ...What I do remember, of course, of the way he then embellished it with lineout on the previous Saturday! were his wonderful school tours... On anecdotes of travel in France. I also Wilf Sinclair (1986) reflection, although I clearly didn’t recall him telling the class that were he realise it at the time, the exposure he to have had any more children he Very sorry to hear of the death of gave me to travel and to history, art would have liked to have named the Morty Black. He taught me French and architecture bore fruit that has child ‘Benevenito’. He leaves a lasting in the 4th and 5th form, and I owe served me well in my professional memory of a kindly and unique him a very considerable debt, as I career. schoolmaster and personality. went on to read French at Oxford a few years later. One thing I I had other trips with Morty to Andrew Little (1978) remember with particular clarity were Germany and Cannes – happy Memories of his French classes in the regular vocabulary tests – 100 memories. They were always well- Room J are entirely happy: they recall words from French to English. The organised, like Morty himself, well- a master of unfailing good humour, results, which were always posted on balanced for education and recreation, with a real enthusiasm for his the classroom noticeboard, were like Morty himself, and good fun – subject… Among the texts we learned awaited with competitive eagerness by like Morty himself. by heart was a speech by General de all of us (and Iain Swan needn’t think David Kernochan (1965) Gaulle, made in 1945, which began: I’ve forgiven him for getting 100 ‘S`il est vrai qu`a travers les vents et les when the best I could manage was ....my main memory of Morty is of marees a ete sauve l`essentiel...’. It 98...). Au revoir, Morty, et merci... him trying to retain our interest in made a great impression on our young languages during the last weeks of the Tim Haggis (1970) minds, so that in later life I was still year after we had completed our able to recall much of the text. That exams. We started learning Italian, I was to prove most useful when, for

22 Etcetera Tributes to John Anthony

I was sad to read of the relatively early beyond the syllabus and into the passing of John Anthony. Certainly broader world of university when I attended the school, he was mathematics. one of the standout teachers being able One lesson stands out vividly. Mr to combine infectious enthusiasm for Anthony had guided us through a his subject with academic rigour. His sequence of short exercises that would 40-minute lessons would whizz by and lead us to Fourier Series, a topic on I recall his remarkable ability to deliver the edge of A-level. We had soon the heart of a topic in every lesson assembled almost all the necessary despite spending some of the lesson observations but, before we were discussing other subject areas such as allowed to see the final idea that history and languages. I remember one would bring them all together, Mr occasion when he had written so Anthony left the classroom on some much Greek on the blackboard that it business, asking us to have finished the would not have looked out of place in exercise when he came back in 10 Room Q. It was no surprise to us that minutes. That final idea was, of John enjoyed a great friendship with course, the key: Fourier’s brilliant Vic Hadcroft. He had an effortless contribution. Anyone who had method of conveying complex finished that exercise unaided would mathematical principles and never have been marked out as a star, though referred to any book during lessons. we were not made aware of that. His apparent infallibility was both a congratulations. John then recounted I wish I could write that one of us comfort to those of us who were not to me names of those he had made the grade, but when Mr naturally gifted in maths and an mentored that had gone up to Anthony returned we were all still inspiration to those who were. Cambridge, some who had also without a clue. If he was disappointed Two abiding memories of John achieved the accolade of Wrangler like he didn’t show it, though he’d have occurred in my last days at the school. himself. Whilst these names were been delighted by our success. John had a spectacular track record in unfamiliar to me, I have not forgotten Nevertheless, you can imagine how preparing boys for success in the A- the pride on John’s face as he recited encouraged we were to be the subject level maths examinations. In the them. of such expectations; how skilful the summer term of 1991, he approached I am sure that generations of teaching had to be to bring us so several of us after the exam for our Academical mathematicians, engineers accurately to the pivot of the thoughts. We had all attempted one and natural scientists will feel equally argument; how excited we were to question at solving a proof and had proud and privileged to have had the taste real mathematical research. Each come to the same seemingly erroneous their mathematical foundations time I recall this lesson my admiration answer, which was off by the power of established in Room L by John. He grows for a teacher whose one, from the required solution. John will be missed. mathematical knowledge and didactic went off to do the question himself skill were so far above the normal and came back incredibly annoyed as Miratul Muqit (1991) level. the question was actually wrong and As one of John Anthony’s former On a lighter note, Mr Anthony liked we had been right and he was upset pupils, I was sorry to learn of his to say ‘Computing is to Mathematics that such a foolish mistake might have recent death (Obituary in Etcetera what Glass-blowing is to Chemistry’, unsettled us during the exam. John Summer 2009). I also see that many quoting an epigram coined by one of then displayed immense compassion former pupils have written to Etcetera his friends at St Johns. I’m glad to for us as he went on to ensure with their reminiscences of their read in Andrew Evans’ obituary note mathematical justice was meted out by teachers. I thought it appropriate that Mr Anthony didn’t let this the exam board. Later that term, I therefore to add a couple of stories opinion intrude on his enjoyment of found myself sitting an exam on my from the 6B A-level Further programming the school’s computers; own with John acting as invigilator. In Mathematics class which John and it’s entirely true to his character a rare moment I saw the schoolboy in Anthony taught in 1980/81. the master – John was giddy with that he disdained any attempt by a excitement as one of his former pupils That class was small but select – Peter software provider to cut the corners (Timothy Luffingham, I recall) had Conkey, Alastair Neill, Robin Harper for him. written to him informing him that he and me, with Lawrie Guthrie and Alan Forrest (1981) had just received a First in Maths from David Hare from the 6A Oxbridge Trinity College, Cambridge and John entrance stream listening in – and Mr was drafting his reply letter of Anthony visibly enjoyed taking us well

Etcetera 23 marriage, they were blessed with four On returning to Glasgow, in 1938 Deaths children, ten grandchildren and two Tom joined the 6th Battalion of the great-grandchildren. He will be HLI in the Territorial Army. He Arthur M Barradell-Smith (1934) greatly missed by them all – and many served with his division in France in April 17 1916 – September 20 2009 more besides. 1940, and then underwent arduous mountain warfare training in the Arthur Barradell-Smith’s death ends a Tributes to Morty appear on pages Highlands. Tom then served as a family connection with School and 18-22 General Staff Officer in 157 Infantry Club which began in 1907 when his Brigade, fighting in the Low father joined The Academy staff Countries, and taking part in the (teaching for nearly forty years), and Iain Cuthbertson (1948) capture of Bremen. Tom finally met played for the Academical XV. January 4 1930 – September 4 2009 up with the Red Army on the Elbe. Commissioned to the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) in World War II, Iain was the son of Sir David After the war Tom became a director Arthur spent five years as a PoW Cuthbertson, a distinguished of an engineering firm, and on retiring subsequently serving in East Africa, biochemist. He attended Glasgow at 65, started a new business, and and with the 51st Highland Division Academy from 1935 to 1946 before continued to work there until he was in Perth. After leaving the army, completing secondary school at 83. In his spare time he was a keen Arthur joined the Glasgow Stenhouse Aberdeen Grammar and going on to fisherman and golfer, and served as a (now Alexander) insurance broking the University of Aberdeen, where he much-respected captain of Buchanan group, in which he became a director. read languages. Castle Golf Club. In public life, he He was also Chairman of his local was a Director of the Merchants Standing at well over 6ft, Iain was a House of Glasgow and a General Conservative Association and the Scottish actor of towering presence. founding secretary of the original Commissioner of the Inland Revenue. He began his professional career in Tom also served as an elder of in Sheffield section of the Club. In 1968 radio and made his first stage he emigrated with his family to Hyndland Parish Church for many appearance in 1955. He was best years. His strong Christian faith was Australia where, apart from various known for his starring roles in the business activities, he became a film obvious in all he did; many benefited television series Budgie and Sutherland’s from his kindness, often without and TV actor. He is survived by his Law. He also had a distinguished wife, two daughters, two knowing of its source. He helped to career on the stage, ran the Citizens organise and took part in many grandchildren and one great Theatre in Glasgow and served as grandchild. Academical class reunions, up until associate director of the Royal Court earlier this year. Theatre in London. In the cinema, Ian played the father wrongly Tom married his wife Mabel in 1941; H Moreton Black (1939) imprisoned as a spy in Lionel Jeffries’s they were very happily married for 53 April 25 1921 – July 28 2009 version of The Railway Children. He years. He was dearly loved and will also appeared in Scandal, the 1988 film be greatly missed by his family and Morty attended Glasgow Academy about the Profumo affair, and in friends. from 1931-1939 and rose to become Gorillas in the Mist, with Sigourney Ronnie Land (1960) Captain of the School, Captain of Weaver. Rugby, and the Mowat Scholar. He won the Russell Scholarship and the From 1975 to 1978 he was Rector of Harkness Scholarship to St Andrews to the University of Aberdeen. Although Stuart N Ross (1959) take a degree in History and it was an honorary position, he filled it September 22 1941 – July 22 2009 Economics. The war intervened and conscientiously and once drove he enlisted as a Lieutenant in the through the night to defuse a student After two minor heart attacks, Stuart Seaforth Highlanders. After capture, protest. Despite suffering a stroke in was about to get back to business, during two years as a PoW, he 1982, Iain refused to accept that he when the ‘big one’ hit him. He died developed an interest in modern would not work again and continued at his home, in the Southern languages. He returned to St Andrews to perform on screen until 2003. Highlands of New South Wales. and obtained a First Class Honours Iain Cuthbertson lived latterly in Born in Trinidad, where his father degree in French and German. Morty Dalrymple, Ayrshire and is survived by worked for Shell, Stuart and elder then joined the staff at Glasgow his wife Janet Mary Smith. brother, David, entered the GA Academy as a language Master and ‘Boarding House’, when it was run by coach of rugby and cricket. For the the legendary Jack Coleman-Smith vast majority of the next forty years he Thomas O Goodall, TD 1933 (‘Coley’). Having learnt to swim, as served as a member of staff in and two year olds, the Ross brothers swam beyond the classroom including as January 28 1916 – August 27 2009 like fish and regularly won prizes at Head of Modern Languages from Tom was born in Glasgow in 1916. school and inter-school swimming 1959. He attended Glasgow Academy from galas. While Stuart wasn’t blessed Morty married Marion in 1945 and, 1926 to 1933 before going to work for with the scholastic skills of his brother, during nearly sixty-four years of Fairey Aviation in London. who became a successful paediatric

24 Etcetera surgeon, he was possibly the best all- home in Perthshire to Glasgow for extremely loyal friend with a very round sportsman of his vintage. He dinners and reunions but continued to tolerant nature and a lovely sense of could, probably, have represented GA take a keen interest in everything humour. He was very easy-going and in several sports, but chose rugby and going on at the school. He is survived easy to get along with. His many cricket. by his son and his daughter, Anne, and friends will miss the twinkle in his eye six grandchildren. and his ready smile, as the large He excelled at rugby. Normally a gathering at his Thanksgiving Service centre, he also shone in any position DA Stirling (1968) at Giffnock South Church on 8 July behind the scrum. He played for Scott bore witness to. Nelson’s 1st XV, when he was only 14 and for Scottish Schoolboys, at 16. Raymond G de P Taylor (1959) He leaves behind a huge gap in the Having left school, he went to London 22 February 1940 – 28 May 2009 lives of his beloved wife, Sheila, son and was soon playing for London Mark and daughter Louise, and his Scottish 1st XV – during their heyday. Raymond fought very, very hard for three grandchildren, Zoe, Kyle and They played him on the wing, the 16 months from his diagnosis with Hollie. alongside 14 other internationals! He myeloid leukaemia in February 2008. was still 17. Had he remained in UK, He died peacefully, in the tender David Richard Duff (1993) he would have, undoubtedly, won loving care of the Staff of Ward 24, in many Scottish caps. the Southern General Hospital. A December 2 1975 – March 25 2009 loving husband to Angela and a He joined Jardine Matheson & Co. wonderful father to his daughters and David’s sudden and tragic death at the Ltd, the famous Scottish conglomerate grandchildren. age of 33 was a great loss to close and sailed off, at 18, to become a family and friends alike. His extrovert Jardine ‘Johnny’ (young trainee) in nature as a young boy was evident Hong Kong. After home leave in John M Greenshields (1944) during his early years in the 1963, he was posted to Jardine Waugh, 15 October 1927 – 3 July 2009 Preparatory School when his first class in Kuala Lumpur, where he married teacher, Miss Annabel Findlay, noticed Gail, his Australian wife. Due to Jack attended Giffnock Primary School and encouraged his clear talent for the ‘Malaysianisation’, he was informed, before going to Glasgow Academy in arts. David’s contagious enthusiasm that his visa would not be extended. September 1938. At The Academy he for travel and the outdoors was a big He bit the bullet and emigrated to made great friends, many of whom feature of his adult life, and his love of Sydney, in 1967, where he worked for met yearly for a ‘catch up’ lunch each skiing can certainly be attributed to his over 20 years for CSR – one of spring. first trip to Morgins, Switzerland with Australia’s long established, ‘blue chip’ At school he took part in amateur The Academy in the mid-80s. companies – before setting up his own dramatics which he continued to enjoy A talent for writing developed whilst successful business. until his marriage. He was called up he was at school and led to him Stuart dazzled them on the ‘padangs’ for National Service where he trained securing a slot writing a column for of the Far East. In Hong Kong, he as an instrument repairer before being the Evening Times’ ‘Cult’ youth was aye voted ‘player of the year’. His demobbed in 1948. He joined India newspaper. David went on to study photos still adorn the walls of the Tyres, working in North Wales and Humanities and American History at HKFC’s vast, new clubhouse. West Cheshire, before returning to the University of the West of England Glasgow in 1953, joining Eric B in Bristol before embarking on a In Sydney, he played for Gordon – a Mackay, tyre distributors. Next he writing career, performing readings at top tier club – until he hung up his joined Armour Motors as a director, various venues across the country as boots… Amen. His genes live on, via then ran his own business Greenshields well as producing scripts for children’s sons Callum and Andrew and five Motor Company, and ended his television and acting as an assistant grandchildren. working life as Fleet Sales Director director on a number of productions, George Mackenzie (1959) with Arnold Clark. most notably at Sadler’s Wells in 2004. He married Sheila (Reid) in 1964 and In the year leading up to his death, his they had two children, Mark in 1966 close friends and family were and Louise in 1968. Mark attended A Nimmo Stirling (1935) comforted that he had been enjoying Glasgow Academy from 1975 to 1979. his life to the full, travelling to visit 3 July 1918 – 8 July 2009 Jack was Deacon of the Corporation friends and family in the United States, Despite seeming fit and healthy, of Bakers from 1987 to 1990 and he Portugal, Norway and Spain. He will Nimmo died unexpectedly but also organised many reunion dinners be dearly missed by his family, close peacefully, just a few days after for Academicals. His great love was friends, and those from The Academy celebrating his 91st birthday. Always a golf and he was a life member of and beyond. staunch supporter of Glasgow Whitecraigs Golf Club. He was also a Robin J Duff (1990) Academy, particularly when dinner member of West Kilbride until failing party guests tried to criticise it. He eye sight forced his resignation in sent his son, David, there too. 2008. He was a gentle man in the Latterly, he was unable to get from his literal sense of the word. He was an

Etcetera 25 Births Marriages and Arthur House Captains ‘tie engagements the knot’ Zico Iqbal (1994) I would like to tell everyone of the Sandy Wilson (1993) Stephanie Wright and Colin birth of my son Roman Adnan Iqbal, My brother Sandy gets married on 7 Hutton (both 2002) tied the knot on born 30 September, weighing in at November 2009 to Rosie Jeffrey. July 4 2009 at Bothwell Parish 9lbs. Both mother and baby are doing Sandy now works in London as a Church. The reception was held at great! fund manager for Threadneedle Bothwell Bridge Hotel before we Paolo Capanni (1986) Investments. Sandy still loves Scotland, enjoyed a honeymoon in Mexico. Paolo and Kerry (nee Barnacle) are though, and has opted to tie the knot There were many former Academy delighted to announce the birth of in a marquee at his parents’ house in pupils in attendance, most notably their daughter, Francesca Grace, on 27 Lanark. Grant Strang (2002) who was our piper on the day and Jenna Weir July 2009 at the Great Western This is Sandy’s second big day – the (2002) who was one of the three Hospital, Swindon. A little sister for first being when he completed the bridesmaids, along with Stephanie’s Alessandro (Alex). gruelling swim across the English sister Kristina (2004). Bill Law (1985) Channel on 11 July 2007. As another twist, Grant and Jenna are We had our fourth baby in June 2009. Congratulations, Sandy and Rosie! getting married on August 20 2010 at ‘Alma Juliana’ joins Janna (3), Marta (from Valerie Barr) (5) and Otto (7). Brigadoon when Stephanie will be a Brian Keighley (1966) bridesmaid and I will be an usher. Iain Macfarlane (1993) I re-married on 17 July: Lesley Ritchie Both Stephanie and I, and Grant and Iain and Rebecca Macfarlane Stirling at the Lake Hotel, Port of Jenna have been together since we announce the birth on 10 September Menteith. On 26 August I was were at school. We all went up to 2009 of their second daughter, Sophie, elected Chairman of BMA Scotland Aberdeen for university. Stephanie a sister to James and Jessica. for an initial three years. studied law at Aberdeen, while I did Politics and Sociology; Grant studied Surveying, while Jenna went to RGU to do physio. Colin Hutton marries his Miss Wright

Alex and Francesca Capanni Bill Law and family

26 Etcetera Also, Stephanie was hockey 1st XI had the chance to live and work with to say nothing of the marvellous captain, Grant was rugby 1st XV the indigenous people and to build a annual CCF pantomimes, helmed by captain, Jenna was hockey 1st XI vice much-needed school – a hugely- the brilliant Gordon Carruthers. captain, I was in the 1st XV. We were difficult but highly-satisfying task. Her I am just finishing a new film called (at all prefects. Stephanie and I were second project was a survival the moment) Cosi, and starring Arthur House Captains and Grant was adventure. After trekking for three Richard E Grant and Sarah Brightman. Temple House Captain. days over mountainous terrain the It should be out next year. We have venturers were left on an island which Stephanie is just completing her had a lot of fun filming it in the had previously been a prison colony traineeship with Macroberts and I am Borders. www.hugh-ross.com and required to carry out various a news reporter at the Clydebank Post group survival tasks. This was a tough Amy Comins (1998) and Dumbarton Reporter. physical and mental challenge but she I am currently a detective constable Colin Hutton (2002) made lots of new friends and within the CID in Cumbria discovered strengths she did not know Constabulary Police force where I Updates she had. have worked since 2003. I am based in Barrow in Furness although I deal Hugh Ross (1962) Rachel Frew (2008) with crime which occurs all over the I have a lot to thank The Academy for During the summer Rachel Frew south of Cumbria. I am also a as, due to the Globe Players, I had volunteered to work with Raleigh specially-trained officer in dealing with played Macbeth, Malvolio and International in Costa Rica and victims of rape and sexual abuse, and Richard III before I had left school – Nicaragua. On her first project she sit on the board of directors for South Cumbria Rape and Abuse Service. I love my job and find it very rewarding. I feel very lucky to have attended The Academy and to have received the education I did. Rowan Smith (Former Staff) I was promoted to position of Web Developer for Transport Scotland four weeks ago. Fraser Lundie (1998) In September this year I was awarded the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Donald MacDonald (1989) Donald has recently completed walking the West Highland Way for charity. As you can see from his photo, at points the weather conditions were fairly challenging: ‘Final day was from Kinlochleven over the pass into Fort William, where winds reached 60mph, with horizontal rain continuous. The term Gore-Tex meant absolutely nothing at this point, as a canoe wouldn’t have looked out of place! Although rain persisted throughout the seven days of the walk, you never get tired of the scenery that surrounds you the whole time. The rain never dampened the camaraderie amongst the group...’

Above: Rachel Frew (fourth left) with some friends she made while working with Raleigh International

Donald MacDonald should have packed the underwater camera to capture the conditions on the last day of his Highland walk!

Etcetera 27 Osteopath in Glasgow. I met my fiance – Michael Brown – at the British College of Osteopathic Medicine (which also happens to be where my parents met some 40 years ago!), and we are due to get married on 1 August 2010 in Dunkeld! (Suzanne Smith is my bridesmaid!) Michael and I now form the third generation of Cram Osteopaths, at the Barrington Drive practice (round the corner from the GA), which my Grandfather opened in 1946. Hope everybody is well at GA!

News of one branch of the Howie family – all of whom have had some successes in recent years – the result of a good education at Glasgow Academy and lots of hard work but, most Team Loch Ness (from left to right): Mike Scott McMcMaster (1993) Four importantly all are happy and healthy! Bottomley (1996), Scott McMaster, Simon Accies took part in the Glasgow Men’s Kirsten L Marriott (nee Howie) Leggat and Roger Sung (all 1993) 10Km run and ran for four different (1998) charities. We all managed to finish, Head Girl 1997/1998 with decent times, and in doing so Donald has volunteered to raise much- MbChB from Edinburgh University. managed to raise funds for our chosen needed funds for a new school in charities. FRCGP currently working in General Malawi and he plans to take on the Practices across the Central Belt of Great Glen Way next March with Sandy Nelson (1998) Scotland while waiting for the dream another walk planned for next The lovely Elaine and I are currently full-time post to materialise! September. ‘Hopefully my walking waiting with bated (and ever so boots will have dried by then!’ slightly terrified) breath for the arrival She married Andy Marriot in 2007 of first born, due on 26 October. In For those that would like to know Suzanne E Howie (1999) the meantime, I’m trying to more about the Trust, you can visit Academy Sportswoman of the Year concentrate on treating the denizens of their website, www.chesneytrust.org 1999 Derry for numerous complaints, BSc in Physiotherapy from Queen Andrew Drummond (1995) mostly alcohol-related, as a middle- Margaret College University, I became a Fellow of the Royal grade doctor in A&E. Edinburgh College of Anaesthetists in June this Delighted to report that fellow 1998 year. Senior Specialist Physiotherapist in alumnus Alistair Kennedy has finally Vascular, Amputee & Renal therapy at Graham Leitch (2002) done the decent thing and asked Queen Margaret Hospital, Graham has just competed in the Carrie Graham to marry him, thus Dunfermline, Fife. World Triathlon Championships in confirming possibly the loveliest Gold Coast. He was a member of the partnership of ‘geeks’ ever. Jennifer M Howie (2001) British age group squad and has Senior School Dux June 2001 Chris Cole (1995) decided to focus on triathlon full time BSc MbChB from Edinburgh I am in the process of setting up a ski – a belated gap year. University chalet business in the French Alps – Ian Gardiner (1988) it’s a really exciting project with 11 Currently an FY2 (formerly SHO) I just won a bronze medal in the apartments in a large chalet, with doctor working at The Royal Hospital World Masters Games cycling private spa and bar area and very close for Sick Children in Edinburgh & championships held in Sydney – 3km to fantastic skiing in winter and studying for FRCP exams individual pursuit. (Work stuff seems walking/climbing/etc in summer. David A A Howie (2003) so much more boring in comparison!) Our opening is planned for December M.Eng (First Class) in Civil so we are right in the middle of the Adrian Louden (1989) Engineering preparations at the moment. Loch Ness Marathon 2009. At last David is travelling across America, managed to finish sub 4 hours with a Joanna Cram (2000) Tonga, New Zealand and Australia PB of 3hrs 54mins. Training now I have just completed my second before taking up employment with starting in earnest for the West degree, an Integrated Masters in Jacobs Engineering in Glasgow Highland Way race next year. Osteopathy, and am a practising

28 Etcetera David Morris (1978) During this degree I took an option in my own speech and language therapy I attended The Academy from 1967- speech pathology which developed my consultancy and in 2003 started a new 1978. After leaving The Academy, interest in speech and language business with two colleagues called where I had been very happy, I went therapy. I received a Diploma in Chatting Independently, which to Aberdeen University and graduated Clinical Communication Studies in provides independent-living skills and in 1982 with a degree in French. 1985 to become a speech and language various therapies such as physio and During this degree I had spent a year therapist. My first job was in Oban hydro therapy, speech and language with a French-speaking family in and moved to Dundee Royal therapy and occupational therapy for Belgium and became a fluent French Infirmary to work in the Neurology young people over 18 years of age speaker. Having developed an interest and Neurosurgery departments in who have a physical disability and use in Linguistics at Aberdeen, I studied 1988. From 1992-2000 I worked for various forms of communication aid Linguistics at Manchester University a company which supplied electronic systems. from where I graduated with a communication aids in the UK called Bachelor of Linguistics degree in 1983. Liberator Ltd. For a short time I had Home win for Andy Murray!

His name has become synonymous Defences and made from American staff in the Art Department and the with success on the tennis court, but White Oak or American Black Walnut school’s Careers advice I would never recently Andy Murray (2004) has caught the eye of chief judge Matthew have found the courses at Napier that been celebrating success of a different Hilton, one of the UK’s leading continued to push my passion for kind. Former Academy pupil, Andy furniture designers. design.’ has been identified as a star of the He was recently one of just 15 future in the design world, winning After the win Andy commented: students from the whole of the UK first prize at the prestigious D&AD ‘Everything is going so well for me at picked to exhibit in London at the Student Awards in the Product the moment. I am thrilled to take the Ideal Home Show 2009. He displayed Design: Furniture category. top prize when you look at some of his ‘Kitchen Toolbox’ range of clever the other fantastic designs that were yet stylish cutlery that couples as Andy (22) – currently studying the shortlisted. If it wasn’t for the essential DIY tools. Masters in Interdisciplinary Design excellent facilities in the Art and course at Edinburgh Napier University Design department and staff at Andy’s ‘Made By. . .’ collection, – was the only Scot shortlisted for the Glasgow Academy, I would never inspired by the credit crunch, also leading international design have found a love and enjoyment for featured in the New Designers 2009 competition for students, the Oscars of product design. Having completed a exhibition. ‘Made By…is a guide to the design industry, which attracted test during my Standard Grade years to making personal items – such as bags over 75,000 entries from around the advise on future career options and and wallets – from low-cost, recycled world across its 27 categories. His being told I was suited to ‘cabinet materials like tea towels. elegant, usable and functional maker’ I never believed I would be Andy may still be a student, but it collection of coffee tables and wall- winning an international competition looks as if he has a bright future ahead mounted shelves inspired by Sea for furniture design. And without the in the design world.

Andy proudly shows his award

Etcetera 29 interested in the picture on page 7 of the 1959 reunion has me almost Roydon Richards and some of the completely hidden! I did pop my boys of his final year. I left in 1958 but head out when a second photo was some of these fellows were doing a taken. double sixth year or I knew them With regard to the photo of Dr from previous years. I recognise some Roydon Richards retirement of them – Sandy MacIntosh (his father presentation on page seven, I too have was Director of Education for a copy. For your information, the Glasgow Town Council), Robin Keith personnel in it are, from left to right, (father a GP in Paisley) Douglas Risk WA (Sandy) Mackintosh, myself, (a Sheriff still in Aberdeen), Charlie Robin A Keith, Mrs F (Nancy) Fairhurst (father Prof of Geography at Roydon Richards, James D McArthur Glasgow), Alan Andrews (a particular (partially hidden), Douglas J Risk, J friend of mine over the years, who Charles Fairhurst, John Cowie, Alan S taught at KA and then for thirty years Andrews (school captain) Norman or more at Morrisons in Crieff – and Stone, Dr Frank Roydon Richards, who died tragically and alone a couple Colin J Methven, Gordon Donaldson. of years ago – a fine organist as well), Norman Stone (Prof of History at With best regards, Oxford, and now at Istanbul, Alastair Reid (1959) formidable intellect, linguist, authority on Russian and Eastern European history and a ferocious imbiber!) and ...The time, energy and focus that you the chap at the right hand end – can’t have spent on the Etcetera magazine is remember his first name but surname absolutely fantastic! Donaldson (who I believe was high up From our own I have just spent some time looking in St Andrew’s House). correspondents through the last edition of your Roydon was a good and active magazine and was absolutely delighted musician (he had a B.Mus) and played to see the wee reminiscence from the double bass with great gusto at the Dave Shannon about Lachie I was pleased to receive the most music concerts which always came Robertson. I didn’t know Mr recent Etcetera – when one has been prior to the Easter holidays and always Robertson at all well, but Dave was away for 51 years it’s always reassuring encouraged music in the school. He one of these guys that everybody just to know that so many of one’s usually contrived to break one of the liked. The quotations from Jimmy contemporaries are still alive! It was bass’ strings during the concert and Jope brought back so many memories: good to read of some of the old staff – some of us used to make a small book ‘Impedimenta’ was the cry when George Preston (History) and George on how long the four strings would anything was left in the gaps between Crosbie were particularly effective for hold out. desks. me – and I went on to read History at Glasgow and then specialise in David Keddie (1958) Mr Humberstone’s picassa show was Ecclesiastical History at Edinburgh in brilliant! I remember the Transitus/S1 my BD. And of course you will have I thought I had achieved a hat trick trip to the pig farm very well. What a heard much of the wonderful and with three pictures of myself in one stink! I’m sure that was the same bus eccentric Baggy Aston. I was issue of Etcetera, but the one printed of that we took on the outing, but I don’t remember any of the faces in the pictures. What I’ve got is the S2 pictures from the trip to the Loire Valley and Paris, in about 1980 with ‘Morty’ Black. I will try to do the same thing as Mr Humberstone, and see if we can get some old faces back together again. Meanwhile, Mrs Inwood led me down the path of applied maths – and well done to her! Whilst I almost did geology after being enthused by Mr Humberstone’s classes in geography, I left GA to go to Heriot-Watt to study Mechanical Engineering. After specialising in Computer-Aided Engineering, I graduated with a first

30 Etcetera and am now a consultant in stabilised electro-optic systems and laser design. My aim at the end of school was to design the ultimate motorcycle – I recently relayed this ambition to a colleague at work, and his comment was, ‘What you are doing now is way cooler’! Perhaps he’s right..? Regards Neil Macdonald (1984)

Many thanks for sending me the latest edition of this excellent magazine.

I am intrigued by the letter from John felt then, and have continued to feel Re the article in Etcetera Number 9 Crombie on the back page where he since, that pupils like me passed Summer 2009 ‘Scotland Rifle Team’, reminisces about old films. Could it through our school years largely under here is a photo of The Academy have been Snow White and the Seven the radar of most, though not quite all, shooting team in 1972. Alastair Marr Dwarfs? I remember my mother taking of our allocated teachers. is in Royal Navy uniform and me to see that in about 1940. I would Lindsay Peden’s younger brother One abiding memory, which bears out have been 5/6 years old then. Clive is sitting to Alastair’s right, in this perception, is of being asked by RAF uniform and yours truly is to I also remember Allan Alstead and the the then Careers Master, ‘Dodo’ Bill’s right also in RAF drill. Mr shine and polish on his CCF boots. Ogilvie, what I intended to do when I Wright, shooting coach, is at right of Crowds of boys used to gather round left school. On replying that I would photo. Mr Wilberforce, janatorial him to comment and admire! He was like to join the Merchant Navy, his staff, ex-forces NCO and an excellent the best cadet by far in my time. I left response was – in that case, I should drill instructor, is at left. in 1953. have taken Geography. I had been in Kind regards, HIS Geography class for the past two I am afraid that, whilst I recall the years! faces, I have forgotten most of the Peter Lyon (1953) names of the team members. I am grateful to The Academy In reply to John Crombie’s letter in however for the lasting friendships I Kind regards, formed there - in the long term, issue 6, the colour film which he saw Mark Bissett (1972) in Stirling could possibly be Doctor X, worth much more to me than any starring a pre-monkey romance Fay academic or sporting accolades. Wray or Flowers and Trees an early Jim Shearer (1963) colour cartoon from Walt Disney. Colour film had in fact been around since 1906 but had yet to be employed successfully with a feature film. I hope this is useful, Douglas Weir (1999) (Perhaps it’s no surprise that Douglas currently works in the area of film restoration with the British Film Institute in London.)

Teachers in 1963 – without the rose-tinted spectacles School Prefects with Rector 1946-47 I always enjoy reading former pupils` On page 8 of the last edition, we published a photograph of Roydon reminiscences about their teachers, but Richards’ with a group of prefects. Thanks to David Mason and Alan and I can’t help wondering how many are Hugh Diack, we now have their names. They are: wearing rose-tinted spectacles whilst Standing – Charlie Armstrong, Sandy Henderson, Andrew Reid, Max Gemmill, Kenny writing. I spent all my school days at Blackwood, Tom James Glasgow Academy (no ‘The’ then) as very much a ‘middle-of-the-road’ Sitting – Gerald Timbury, Gordon Watson, Malcolm MacGregor, Alistair Henderson, Rector, Alistair Porter, David Mason, Billy Bennett scholar and as an ‘also-ran’ at sports. I

Etcetera 31 Regular Giving 2008-09 In the summer edition of Etcetera, we let you know that we were very close to achieving our appeal target for 2008/09. We’re delighted to be able to tell you the good news: Regular Giving supporters donated £46,586 between 1 October 2008 and 30 September 2009. 83% of donations were gift aided, meaning an additional £10,788 was raised through tax efficient giving. This means the 2008-09 appeal raised well over £57,000. In other words, thanks to you, we came close to achieving twice our target in this challenging financial year! Your support made five great projects possible: We were able to transform the Kelvinbridge Nursery play area, enhance our sporting facilities, buy more music keyboards, fill the Transitus library with books and support more pupils who, without bursaries, would not benefit from an Academy education. Thank you all! Nursery children enjoy a transformed Nursery playground

Beach, Outer Hebrides by Katherine Hedivan, age 17

‘Christmas Cracker’ We are delighted to show off our young artists’ talent in our 2010 Calendar, retailing at a bargain price of £5.00 each plus £1 p&p The Glasgow Academy Art Department enjoys a well-deserved reputation for high quality and innovative work and – in producing this calendar – we feel that the work we do should be enjoyed by a wider public. Orders can be placed by phone: 0141 342 5494 or e-mail: [email protected] or using the form below:

I enclose a cheque for £ (payable to The Glasgow Academy) Please send me copies of the Calendar. Name Address

e-mail address

32 Etcetera