Rhif/No. LXXVIII Haf/Summer 2021 the link The Cymdeithas Lampeter Llambed Society CONTENTS

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR 1 FEATURES 22

EDITORIAL 2 The Lampeter Experience – the 1840S and 1970S 22

CHAIR’S REPORT 2 From the 1840S 22 The ‘Third Alumnus’ – Revd Willoughby Bean MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSITY (1801–1877) 22 AN UPDATE FROM THE PROVOST 4 From the 1970S 23 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 5 Bob Fonow’s Experience in the Late 1970S 23 Margaret McCloy’s Experience of Lampeter Reunions From Richard Sice (1981) 5 and Swansea Branch Memories from the Late 1970S NEWS 5 Onwards 24

Spotlight on the Lampeter Campus 5 OBITUARIES 25 * University News on New Programmes & Projects 5 Brian Curtis (1945–2020) 25 * Recent Publications 7 The Venerable Lorys Davies (1936–2021) 25 * Awards 8 Glynn Garlick (1967–2020) 26 * Research Update 8 Canon William J. Isaac (1949–2021) 26 * Update: Students’ Union (May, 2021) 9 George Lilley (1936–2021) 27 * Update: the Chapel 10 The Venerable John Oliver (1939–2021) 27 * Update: The Roderick Bowen Library and Archives 10 Canon Wynzie Richards (1925–2021) 28 Alumni Updates 11 Alan Rogers (1939–2020) 29 REPORTS – YEAR GROUP REUNIONS AND Herb Solow (1930–2020) 29 OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS, 2021 15 Further Tribute: D.P. Davies 30

Programme of Monthly Virtual Talks for 2021– Reports and MAKING BEQUESTS TO THE LAMPETER SOCIETY 30 Notices 15 Report on the 2021 Annual Lampeter Society-Funded Talk, MEMORABILIA 31 1st March 16 Lampeter Scarves and Ties for Sale 31 Review of the 2021 Annual Lampeter Society-Funded Talk, 1st March 16 MISCELLANEOUS 32 Review of the April, 2021 Talk on Cecily 16 The Lampeter Society 32 Review of the May, 2021 ‘Nostalgia & Religion’ Talk 17 * General 32 Review of the June, 2021 ‘Everest Mystery’ Talk 18 * Introducing the New UWTSD Alumni Officer Lampeter Society Swansea Branch Reunion and Dinner, 32 * Introducing the New Lampeter Society Marketing Lead 33 2021 – At A Distance 18 * Introducing the New Secretary of the Lampeter Society 33 Update: Lampeter Society Severn-Thames Branch 19 Dates for Diaries, 2021 Notice – Postponed 5th “Old Codgers’” Rugby Match / 34 The 2021 Lampeter Society Virtual Reunion Programme – Late 80S Reunion 19 24 July 34 Notice – Cardiff Reunion, 2021 20 The 2022 Lampeter Society 85th Anniversary and University Bicentenary Programme 35 Request for Copy for Future Editions of The Link 36 Membership of the Lampeter Society Business Committee 36 Thank You 36 FFURFLENNI / FORMS

Cyffredin / General Change of Address / Newid Cyfeiriad ii Lampeter Society Annual Donation Standing Order Mandate iii Lampeter Society ‘200 Club’ iv–v NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

This issue of The Link was designed by Jill Sweet (JS Typesetting Ltd., Porthcawl) and printed by Sarah & Ashley Ward of Y Stiwdio Brint, Lampeter.

Images The covers for this issue have a Lampeter ‘town and gown’ theme, in recognition of the interdependence of the Lampeter University campus, the Lampeter Society and the town.

Front cover The new logo of the Lampeter Society, designed by graphic artist Kat Clarke of Pixel & Print Design Company, Bridgend. The green of ‘the Link’ and the white background of the logo reflect the hues chosen by the Tudors, who of course had Welsh origins; the red echoes the Welsh dragon; and the grey background throws all of those into relief.

Back cover Both images were taken by Bill Fillery (1969). The top one shows the front of the Old Building from a distance in April, 2021. The one at the bottom is of Lampeter High Street in June, 2021.

Explicanda 1. Throughout, dates in brackets after names indicate years of graduation.

2. In addition to its plural sense, the pronoun ‘they’ is used throughout “to refer to a person of unspecified sex” rather than ‘he or she’ and similar forms. Even though not universally accepted, this usage dates back to “at least the 16th century”. Then, in the late 20th century, it again became common “as the traditional use of ‘he’ to refer to a person of either sex came under scrutiny on the grounds of sexism.” (Oxford Dictionary of English, 2nd edition, revised, 2005, p.1832). Moreover, it seems to be a usage that befits the current gender-sensitive times.

3. Wherever there is a gloss by the editor, it appears simply as “ – Ed.”

WANTED! …..YOUR DONATIONS!

The Lampeter Society helps to fund the Lampeter campus of UWTSD, including the library and chapel, and acts as a focus for alumni. It produces The Link, organises reunions, pays for special lectures etc. However, all this requires money, so we are asking for your financial support! If you do not already make an annual donation of at least £20, please consider doing so now! After this issue, for financial and environmental reasons, a hard copy of The Link will be sent ONLY to alumni who have donated.

Simply make a transfer of your desired amount to The Lampeter Society bank account, using your name as the reference:

The Lampeter Society Account number: 00072466 Sort code: 30-94-85

OR, if you prefer, send a cheque to Andrew Leach (address available on request from Andrew at [email protected]).

ALSO……to make this an annual donation, just complete the Standing Order Mandate on page ii at the back of this issue and post it to the address given.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

1 EDITORIAL

Welcome to this Summer issue of The Link, which is now back as a printed edition after a gap of over a year – a sign I hope of life beginning to return to normal, though unfortunately the annual Lampeter Society reunion must perforce be virtual again this year. These past six months have been difficult for us all though not without hope, and all being well we shall have an extended physical Reunion in Lampeter next year to mark the bicentenary of the founding of the University’s Lampeter Campus as St. David’s College and the 85th anniversary of the Lampeter Society.

This edition is relatively large, with much news and many reviews and feature articles. In it, we read about the return of the students to campus, new archaeological discoveries, the amazing and diverse exploits of Geography alumni, reviews of our new monthly virtual talks, tributes to ten departed graduates and staff (three of whom sadly died from Covid-19), and accounts of the ‘Third Alumnus’. There is also a call for past Archaeology students to tell us about their careers to date in the ‘Alumni Updates’ section of a future issue of The Link.

In the next issue, we hope to feature articles on the history of the Chapel, the history of the academic robes of Lampeter, Italian café culture in Wales, and the changing face of Lampeter Town, as well as updates on more Geography alumni.

It would be great to hear from you about the current situation and how you are coping, as well as what you think of the magazine and other items you would like to see included in it. Letters to the editor are always much appreciated too.

Meanwhile, please keep on sending me your contributions for future editions – and above all, stay safe and well! We are not yet out of the woods with regard to this horrific pandemic.

Brendan McSharry (1971) [email protected]

CHAIR’S REPORT

As I sit down to write this report, the currently takes us forward until April, To celebrate the University’s sun is at last streaming through the 2022, with such diverse topics as bicentenary, as well as the Lampeter window. It’s been a long time coming! the stories of some of the grandest Society’s 85th anniversary, we will Restrictions are still with us but let’s hotels around the world, relations be making the 2022 Reunion an hope that the sunshine bodes well for between contemporary Pagan groups extra-special four-day event. To a better second half of the year. and the archaeological and heritage whet everyone’s appetite for what professions in Britain in the early 21st you can expect over the weekend, I’m so pleased that this edition of century, the benefits of walking, and the Lampeter Society, in conjunction The Link is a printed one. We carried some of the barriers we face as we age. with Lampeter Music Club, will be on producing the magazine only If you are an author and would like to presenting the 2022 Bicentenary in a virtual format throughout the run a virtual book-reading session in Concert, which will be the Lampeter pandemic, but there’s nothing quite 2022, please let me know. Society’s 85th Anniversary and like being able to physically hold Lampeter Music Club’s 40th something in your hands to read. We were disappointed not to be able Anniversary Celebration and will to meet face-to-face last Summer for feature music from around 1822. I do Like much of society at large though, our annual Reunion. The Committee so very much hope that we can get the Lampeter Society is still living in made the difficult decision at our back to normal next year – we’ll have a virtual world. At the start of this meeting earlier this year to hold this a lot to celebrate. year, we made the most of our new year’s virtually too. As last year, this ‘Zoom’ licence by introducing a series will be on one day only – Saturday, The Committee has been focusing of monthly book-reading sessions 24th July. It will include this year’s recently on our bicentenary plans delivered by alumni who have written AGM. It would be lovely to ‘see’ you all and activities for 2022. As you can books. Pamela Petro started us off there, albeit virtually. The programme see from the programme on page 35, in March with a powerful account and ‘Zoom’ link are included later in we have many events planned. A key of her connection to Wales and an this edition. We’ll send out the 2022 one will be the Bicentenary Service in exploration of the Welsh concept of Reunion programme and booking St Davids Cathedral on Saturday, 14th hiraeth and what it means to her. Our information by email over the next few May, at a time to be confirmed. This programme of book reading sessions months. will be open to all alumni, current

2 staff and students, as well as friends of the first organised rugby match in one would be a fitting way to mark the of Lampeter. The Lampeter Society Wales in 1866) the previous week. Lampeter Society’s 85th anniversary will be funding a coach between the in 2022. We hope you like it! We have University and St Davids; we will let Our Lampeter Society Bursary Appeal also taken the opportunity to have the everyone know the times nearer the is still very much open. Our aim is Reunion information professionally day. If you are interested in reserving a to fund two bursaries to the value redesigned, and you will receive these place on it, just email me. Please note of £1,000 each for two potential via email over the next few months. that there may be limited spaces both students from the University’s social We’ve recently also launched our new in the Cathedral and on the coach if inclusion projects in Newport and Twitter feed. If anyone is on it, feel social distancing is still required. London. Thank you so much to free to follow us and tag us in any alumni who have contributed to this related activities. As I’m sure you’ve seen, from my fund. If anyone would like to make occasional reminders on social a donation to the Lampeter Society Finally, I’d like to welcome two new media, our ‘200 Lampeter Voices’ Bursary Fundraising Appeal and help members to the Committee: Chris project is well underway. We have us reach our target of raising £2,000, Reaney (1982) has taken on the received some wonderful memories. donations can be made at www.uwtsd. position of Secretary and Charles The finished compilation will be a ac.uk/alumni/lampeter-alumni/ Musselwhite (1996) will be focusing fascinating read as well as serving donate-now/. on marketing the Society and our as an important record for the activities. Welcome Chris and Charles! University’s archives. As you can see July, 2021, also sees the re-launch Thank you to all the Committee from our programme of Bicentenary of our ‘200 Club’. We are changing members for their work in these events, we’ll be launching the finished the conditions slightly for this and busy, yet slightly strange, times. compilation next year with a virtual all future ‘200 Club’ draws so that We’ve continued to meet virtually event consisting of alumni stories and each month one lucky winner will every quarter, with bicentenary plans memories. If anyone else would like receive the full 50% of the prize money keeping us all busy! to be part of the this project and / or instead of it being shared amongst I hope that everyone is keeping well. the virtual launch in February, 2022, three people. Registration forms can Times are looking brighter, and I look please get in touch. be found towards the end of this issue forward to seeing you on screen for of The Link. The funds raised from the the time being and hopefully face-to- Our final events of the year will Club will help to fund our bicentenary face in 2022. celebrate the first rugby match to take activities so please get involved if you place in Wales 150 years ago between can and you may be in for a lucky win! Best wishes, St David’s College, Lampeter, and Esther Llandovery College, and it will be For any eagle-eyed readers out re-played at Lampeter RFC on 15th there, you may have spotted our new Esther Weller (1999) October, with a Media and Training Lampeter Society Logo on the front Chair, Lampeter Society session taking place in Caio (the site cover of this issue. We thought to have [email protected]

2022 BURSARY FUNDRAISING APPEAL Our initial aim is to raise £2,000 to create two £1,000 Bicentenary Bursaries for potential students in the University’s Social Inclusion projects in London and Newport. In the future, we would like to award a Lampeter Society Bursary for a new student on an annual basis. If you would like to support our appeal, please donate at https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/alumni/lampeter-alumni/donate-now/ Thank you!

3 MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSITY AN UPDATE FROM THE PROVOST

Covid-19 Following the Welsh Government’s announcement in April that universities would be able to resume their delivery of blended learning, combining on-campus and online learning for the Summer term, the University – as part of its risk-assessed approach – put in place a number of measures in order to welcome its students back to campus. These included making appropriate adjustments to the delivery of its programmes and services as well as to the campus environment, providing access to regular testing, wearing face coverings, physical distancing and hand hygiene.

The Lampeter students have responded magnificently to these new measures and were, in fact, the very first cohort to return to campus earlier this term. Both the students and staff have worked tirelessly throughout the current academic year to ensure that learning and teaching continued at Lampeter despite the coronavirus pandemic. Once again, thanks to the support and engagement of the student body, the University is pleased to report that there has not been a single positive case of Covid-19 recorded on campus this year. This is a testament to the efforts of both staff and students for which the University and the local community are incredibly grateful.

Recruitment Despite the current challenges, UWTSD is looking forward to welcoming its new cohort of students in September. As a close-knit academic community – we were voted 1st in the UK for our courses and lecturers for the second year in succession in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards – we are well placed to provide our prospective students with a safe and stimulating learning environment at Lampeter. Given that recruitment is slightly down on last year, a series of in-person Visitor Days for small cohorts of prospective students is currently being planned for all campuses during the next few months, alongside a focused recruitment campaign across digital and print media.

Campus Development Plan Work has started on a Campus Development Plan for Lampeter that will help to shape the future direction of the estate in supporting core University activities between 2021 and 2035. The project is currently at a visioning stage with a range of suggestions and ideas being considered. A final draft of the plan will be presented to University Council later this year.

Canolfan Tir Glas As the University reimagines the future potential of Lampeter and the role of the institution in supporting an integrated vision for the town, work has begun on Canolfan Tir Glas – a centre to promote the local food industry, resilience and enterprise within a rural context. This centre will focus on strengthening the economic infrastructure of Lampeter and its hinterland, providing the town and surrounding area with the opportunity to craft a clear focus in terms of identity and brand.

A core part of the scheme is to work closely with neighbourhood discount food retailer Aldi to develop the concept of a food village on part of Pontfaen fields. With the sale of the land to Aldi, the University would also be in a position to invest in a new food and hospitality training centre at the heart of Lampeter together with a rural enterprise hub on its campus. The scheme is underpinned by economic regeneration, with the aim of creating new employment opportunities, attracting many more visitors to the town and increasing the number of further and higher education students studying in Lampeter.

Bicentenary Celebrations The University looks forward to celebrating 200 years of higher education in Wales in 2022 and its role in shaping a nation. To celebrate the establishment of St David’s College, Lampeter, in 1822, which marked the birthplace of higher education in Wales, an exciting range of activities and events is currently being planned. These include lectures, exhibitions, concerts, receptions and a service in St Davids Cathedral in collaboration with the Lampeter Society. The bicentenary will also provide an opportunity to celebrate the successes and achievements of UWTSD and its founding institutions over the past two centuries while also highlighting its current achievements and future aspirations. Further details will be made available later this summer.

Gwilym Dyfri Jones May, 2021

4  LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

From Richard Sice (1981) very straightforward and can be done Classes are at 1 pm on Saturdays. I should like to thank the Lampeter by anyone of any age, even if never Link for introducing me to a free attempted before. I am genuinely grateful for the Saturday lunchtime online course – information that you originally shared Lung Strengthening Qigong Exercise. For your reference here is the link that in The Link – watching the news this I followed: morning there are many reasons why This has been the best health activity it is important to take some simple that I have undertaken during the https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/online/ measures to protect our health. Lockdown – it has always been clearly confucius-institute-online-learning/ explained and the activity itself is qigong-for-health-online-courses/

NEWS SPOTLIGHT ON THE LAMPETER CAMPUS

[Except where indicated, items are based on press releases submitted by Arwel Lloyd, Principal PR and Communications Officer, University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD hereinafter), and the images are taken from them too – Ed.]

This College builds upon UWTSD Lampeter campus’ University News on New Programmes reputation for the study of the Humanities and its & Projects international multi-cultural and multi-faith ethos, as well as its expertise in delivering distance learning provision.  iHUMANITIES COLLEGE Philosophy lecturer Dr Rebekah Humphreys, who is The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) leading on the iHumanities initiative, said: has launched the iHumanities College which provides a range of distance learning undergraduate and postgraduate Our academic staff are not only experts in their fields programmes within the Humanities. but also in delivering distance learning provision. We’ve been offering such programmes and modules alongside our campus-based provision for about 30 years. The current shift across the university sector to online learning is nothing new to us. We’ve developed our virtual learning environment and digital learning resources to offer students an inspiring and rewarding study experience.

Distance learning offers a flexible learning option to fit around students’ personal and professional commitments. They may be a busy parent bringing up young children, or a career professional unable to take time off but eager to undertake professional development, or someone who lives far from Lampeter but is keen on the intellectual challenge of studying.

The range of programmes include Ancient Languages, Ancient Worlds, Cultural Astronomy and Astrology, Historical Studies, Literature, Writing and Language, iHumanities College student at work Philosophy, Religious Studies and Theology.

5 Opportunities are also available to study research degrees, Krystyna Krajewska, Executive Director at UWTSD’s including doctoral studies, as well as to take part in a range Confucius Institute (Lampeter Campus), said: of activities such as seminars, symposiums, talks and summer schools, in addition to joining online forums and Mandarin Chinese is one of the fastest growing discussion groups. languages in the world. This resource will provide new opportunities for young people to learn another Dr Humphreys added: language and about another culture. We hope that the See Chinese Visual Learning lessons will benefit many Since higher education in Wales was founded in school communities who would not otherwise have the Lampeter 200 years ago, we have been delivering opportunity to study this subject. excellent teaching in Humanities subjects, and with such a wealth of experience behind us, we know what Teachers can sample the first four online lessons of See works. We have a firmly established reputation for Chinese Visual learning. The full resource, which includes delivering small group teaching – teaching which ten PDF lessons and pages with illustrations, is available as enables our lecturers to respond to the needs of every part of the teachers’ course pilot which started on 1st March single student. Above all we want our students to (delivered via Teams). The resources are available in the explore the wealth of opportunities and enrichment medium of Welsh as well as English. the study of Humanities provides”. The course is completely free of charge and involves a  BRAND NEW – LEARNING & TEACHING one-hour class per week after school over five weeks. MANDARIN LANGUAGE RESOURCE FOR Teachers will have access to the See Chinese resources PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS AND PUPILS AT which they can try out in school, or as a distance learning THE CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE ON THE LAMPETER resource. CAMPUS  UWTSD LAMPETER CAMPUS LAUNCHES See Chinese Visual Learning is a new approach to learning SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL ALUMNI Mandarin Chinese, specially developed for the Welsh New AND STUDENTS Curriculum for Key Stage 2 by the UWTSD Confucius Institute.

International students on the Lampeter campus

The University has launched a range of scholarships for alumni and international students wishing to commence See Chinese Visual Learning illustration their studies in 2021.

Up to £3,000 is available through the UWTSD Wales Global Academy for international alumni of the University The resource centres around Morgan, his family and his to study a postgraduate programme. In addition, the pets, and introduces ten attractive topics. The content University will celebrate its bicentenary in 2022 marking includes how to write Chinese using pinyin – the Latin the establishment of St David’s College, Lampeter, as the alphabet used to learn pronunciation – as well as simple birthplace of higher education in Wales in 1822. As part of Chinese characters. This unique approach to teaching those celebrations, it is offering a Bicentenary Scholarship Mandarin makes use of easy to learn colour-coded of up to £3,000 to international students who commence sentence patterns that can be grasped visually. their first degree or Master’s level programme in 2021.

Designed as a ‘learn to teach’ Mandarin language resource A UWTSD Scholarship of up to £3,000 is also available for Primary School teachers, the resource doubles as a for students from commonwealth countries as well as an gentle and fun introduction for KS2 pupils as well. International Doctoral College Scholarship of up to £5,000

6 for successful international candidates accepted onto a Melding themes from art and history with the doctoral level research programme. contemporary, the collection includes poems about pigments and dictators, glue, glass houses, collections, Find out more about international scholarships, eligibility seed, crinolines and barometers, and memory itself. and how to apply on our international scholarships and bursaries webpages. “I’m fascinated by art – not just the aesthetic object, but how it got to be, what went into the paint, what happens The Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship is offered to when it falls into disrepair,” said Rosalind, who lives near students from Vietnam, India, the USA and countries of Tregaron. “Engaging with art on the level of physical the European Union to study in Wales. The scholarships process is a way of looking at larger themes to do with – each worth £10,000 – are for international students to disappearance, transformation, and restoration. This thread study a full-time Master’s programme in Wales. runs through the collection.”

This prestigious scheme is the first scholarship of its kind The book is Rosalind’s second full-length collection. in Wales and is funded by the Global Wales Programme, a Besides appearing widely in journals, she has a pamphlet partnership between the Welsh Government, Universities with Rack Press, Terra Ignota (2013) and a full collection, Wales, The British Council and the Higher Education Tilt, with Cinnamon Press (2014), poetry from which was Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW). As part of the highly commended in the 2015 Forward prizes. She has scheme, UWTSD can offer a minimum of three £10,000 been an award winner in the National Poetry Competition scholarships to students who have already applied for a and won several other awards. She is a Hawthornden place to study an eligible postgraduate programme before Fellow (2017) and twice recipient of a bursary from they submit their scholarship application. Literature Wales Writers. Rosalind says: Find out more about UWTSD’s Global Wales Postgraduate It always feels very validating to have a book Scholarships and how to apply. published. These days you often have to wait two years or longer from acceptance stage to publication. Recent Publications Restorations took two years – but during that time you become part of a little team, all intent on creating  UWTSD ALUMNA AND LECTURER CELEBRATES a fine end-product. There’s a shared excitement when PUBLICATION OF POETRY COLLECTION the book comes back from the printers, ready to hit the shelves! Suddenly process has become actuality. An award-winning poet who teaches on UWTSD’s creative That was especially so with Restorations, which has writing programmes, and is herself an MA graduate of the been produced during the pandemic. You feel University, has released her latest poetry collection. everyone was working against the odds. And I had a wonderful editor, Amy Wack, who is very astute and meticulous.

Passionate about poetry since childhood, Rosalind credits her MA studies in Lampeter with enabling her to focus on her long-held aim of becoming a published poet. She joined the MA in Creative and Script Writing as a part-time student in 2009. At the time the course was directed by the playwright Dic Edwards.

“The belief and encouragement of my tutors went a very long way towards helping me progress as a poet,” Rosalind said. “Also, I was helped by the quality of teaching, and by the intimate environment which helped create a supportive community amongst fellow creative writing students.” She goes on to remark: Rosalind Hudis

Samantha Wynne-Rhydderch, who was Poetry Rosalind Hudis’s new book, Restorations, is available Fellow at the time, mentored my writing. I learnt so now, published by Seren. It’s a vibrant collection that has much from her, and Dic Edwards set a lot of store already won praise from reviewers and writers. The West by workshopping creative work; I think that also Wales-based writer’s poems have been described as “a helped. Furthermore, having tutors who were also masterclass”, “rich in human detail” and “many-layered writers meant they understood the process of getting in their brushwork.” [Mathew Francis – Introduction to published from the inside and had a network of Restorations – Ed.] industry connections.

7 Dr Martin Bates

elephant butchery site in Ebbsfleet, the Harnham terminal Lower Palaeolithic site near Salisbury, and he discovered the Happisburgh human footprints in Norfolk (the oldest presently known in the world outside Africa).

It was noted during the presentation that the Henry Stopes Medal had been awarded to Dr Bates for his “significant contributions to understanding the geological environment of prehistoric human occupation of Britain and elsewhere over the last 40 years.” Now she is pleased to be passing on some of her knowledge and experience as a lecturer at UWTSD. It was also noted that in the spirit of the Geologists’ Association he was “generous with his time and expertise “I enjoy the opportunity to work closely with students to colleagues, students and members of the public alike”. to develop the potential of their writing and build their confidence,” Rosalind said. “The creative writing faculty Following the awards ceremony, Dr Martin Bates, has always had a very friendly and inclusive approach commented: as well, which makes for a good teaching and learning environment. And although none of us can go there at the It is incredible to be recognised in this way and I’d like moment, the campus at Lampeter is uniquely beautiful.” to thank the Geologists’ Association for this honour. However, this award really reflects the support I have received through my career from a whole range of Awards specialists who have provided me with the data I have  used in my research. Without them, I would not have PRESTIGIOUS HENRY STOPES MEMORIAL been able to do what I have done. MEDAL AWARDED TO UWTSD LAMPETER CAMPUS ACADEMIC I think this all goes back to my very early days spent on the beaches of West Wales being dragged along An academic from UWTSD has been awarded the on Saturday fieldtrips led by my father for students prestigious Henry Stopes Memorial Medal. studying geology at Aberystwyth. He has a lot to answer for! Based at the University’s Lampeter campus, Dr Martin Bates accepted the Outstanding Contribution award from the Geologists’ Association during an online ceremony on Research Update Friday, 7 May. This prize is awarded just once every three years for exceptional work in the archaeological field and  NEW ANALYSIS OF ANCIENT TEETH COULD specifically “on the Prehistory of Man and his geological SHOW EVIDENCE OF A HYBRID POPULATION OF environment.” [Geologists’ Association booklet and webpage NEANDERTHALS AND MODERN HUMANS – Prizes and Medals – geologistsassociation.org.uk – Ed.] A team of Archaeologists, including UWTSD’s Dr Martin During his career, Dr. Bates has been involved in a number Bates, has discovered that ancient teeth from La Cotte of major discoveries within the UK archaeological field de St Brelade in Jersey could be evidence of a hybrid including the Dover Bronze Age boat, the Clactonian population of Neanderthals and modern humans.

8 This work will really begin to understand the deposits from around the time of the teeth. Jersey Heritage and its benefactors have begun funding this work but this is going to be a costly and time consuming job taking a number of years. The site is challenging to work in and we have to abseil into the cave every time we go to work, which produces some challenges.

Update: Students’ Union (May, 2021)

Since my last update, the SU has made amazing progress in our online and distance event offerings. We have hosted ‘Small Plants’, which has seen students begin to grow plants at home, and ‘Wellbeing Week’ is launching. This will include several events aimed at supporting students to explore what they can do to reinforce their wellbeing from Images by Dr Martin Bates home, including yoga, meditation and pottery. Discovered in 1910 and 1911 at the Jersey site, the set of 13 With the guidance in Wales allowing larger groups to meet teeth were initially assumed to be Neanderthal remains, for organised activity, we are exploring what we can do to belonging to one individual. However, new research led by support our clubs and societies to return to regular activity the Natural History Museum, published in the Journal of safely, as well as working on my manifesto pledge to create Human Evolution, has uncovered features characteristic of a new accreditation system that will let those societies have modern human teeth. autonomy in the activities that they take part in during the new academic year. Dr Martin Bates is the project’s geologist and has been recording and understanding the stratigraphy at the site We have also continued with our online Cook-a-Long and how it built up over time. He said: events which sees students provided with the ingredients for healthy meals and invited to cook alongside other The work on the teeth shows the value of going back to Students and staff from the Union. historic collections of material where modern work at a site provides new contexts for this historic material. Our renovation of Old Bar has seen new flooring installed So although the teeth were collected back in the early throughout the bar and we are excited to continue working 20th century, modern techniques applied to both on Old Bar and Xtension to make it a space that students the teeth and the site now allow us to really begin to want to use, as well as exploring our offerings in these understand what the teeth represent and how old they spaces. are. Our annual Spring Elections took place in April, and I am The work of the multidisciplinary team, led by Dr delighted to tell you that my successor is James Barrow, Matt Pope of University College London, that has been excavating the site over the last 10 years, has allowed, for the first time, deposits in the vicinity of the area where the teeth came from to be examined with modern techniques. So we have been able to date the deposits using modern methods and our discoveries show that the age of the material 3–4 metres below the horizon from which the teeth came dates to about 48,000 years ago. This means the teeth are younger than this date in all probability.

So the human teeth are thought to be around 48,000 years old, close to the presumed Neanderthal extinction date of 40,000 years ago. The La Cotte ravine has also revealed the most prolific collection of early Neanderthal technology in North West Europe, including over 250,000 stone tools. These include stones with sharpened edges that could be used to cut or chop, known as hand axes. Dr Bates added:

The site at La Cotte is now in the process of being made stable to protect it against erosion from the sea Old Bar floor renovated at last! and to allow new excavation which we began in 2019. (Courtesy of Liz Abduli [1995])

9 who will be taking up this post in June. His foci include By way of follow-up to Alpha, we began a weekly online continued transparency between the University and Bible Study, looking at Mark’s Gospel. Each session begins students, the preservation and reintroduction of services with a couple of hymns or worship songs. Then we have a offered by the SU, and continuing work on Accessibility discussion starter, read a passage of Scripture, spend about in the Lampeter Campus. I am looking forward to seeing an hour discussing it and finish with a time of prayer and the amazing work he has planned come to fruition for the reflection. We have about half a dozen people attending betterment of our campus and the student experience. this group, representing a variety of academic disciplines, James was the Societies’ Part-Time Officer (PTO) for two and this makes for a very in-depth study. It’s exciting to years as well as President of the Performing Arts Society. see the group members growing in their faith and gaining We will also see some new PTOs take up post for Student confidence in their ability to study the Scriptures for Engagement, Sports and Women’s Liberation. [PTOs themselves. are voluntary positions that support the full-time elected Presidents – Ed.] Interactions with the university community in person have been very limited this year and I have especially missed As the final message from myself in the position of training with the rugby and netball teams. I hope that this Lampeter Campus President, I wanted to take this is something that will return in the autumn as I found it opportunity to thank the staff, students and alumni for a brilliant way to meet students on their own terms. I am their continued support of our campus and I look forward still having to work hard to make Chaplaincy an integral to seeing the direction we take in the new academic year. part of the University support network as I think that some people perceive it as being only for religious people, but I Tammy Bowie (2020) am genuinely tying to be available for every staff member UWTSD SU Lampeter Campus President or student.

[The Editor of The Link and the Lampeter Society would Looking ahead to next academic year, I will have two like to congratulate Tammy on what was clearly a most Chaplaincy Interns to work alongside me to help me cover successful – albeit challenging – year. She achieved a great the workload across both campuses. This past year I have deal in adverse circumstances. The Editors would also like just about managed to cover them myself, largely because to thank her very much indeed for the excellent updates she of online working. However, as we move towards more has contributed to the magazine during her time in office.] face-to-face opportunities, I will need additional support and I’m looking forward to working with a small team to make Chaplaincy even more visible on the Lampeter Update: The Chapel Campus.

I have to say that the past academic year has been one like I will be taking a group of staff and students from Lampeter no other. Chaplaincy for me has always been about meeting to Israel next summer (2022) for a ten-day Pilgrimage, people where they are, walking alongside them in their assisted by The Venerable Mones Farah, former Chaplain daily lives and trying to bring something of the light of to Lampeter Campus [and now Archdeacon for New Christ into their circumstances. For most of this academic Church Communities in London – Ed]. There is much year I have not been able to be on campus in person, excitement about this trip and after such a demanding 18 partly due to my being required to shield because of months, having something to look forward to is providing Covid-19, and partly because most of the students have not a much-needed boost at this time. themselves been present on campus. As a response to this I have focussed on growing an online Lampeter Chaplaincy May I take this opportunity to thank you all for your Community using Microsoft Teams, the software ongoing support and prayers. Please don’t hesitate to get in used by all staff and students across the University. By touch if you have any questions regarding the Chapel or the live-streaming religious services and social events from my Chaplaincy. God willing, I will see some of you in person home, I’ve been able to support many staff and students. for Founders’ Day in the autumn. For some events, such as Compline, attendance has grown as for some people it is more convenient to log on than to Revd Dr Emma Whittick travel to campus for worship. UWTSD Lampeter Campus Chaplain [email protected] The Alpha Course that was started in the autumn saw 07988 741122 about a dozen staff and students engage with the material. Mostly we operated it online but we met in the Chapel for a day looking at the work and person of the Holy Spirit. Update: The Roderic Bowen Library We have a second day planned to explore issues relating to and Archives healing and opportunities for vocations now that lockdown is easing and we can meet in person again. It’s been a joy to The Roderic Bowen Library and Archives is now open for see both staff and students grow in their existing faith and, ‘click and sit’ service three afternoons a week; at present in some cases, return to a faith that they had some years this is only available for students and staff, but it is a move ago. in the right direction.

10 Future online – and possibly physical – exhibitions for the We will be issuing invitations to graduates from all of Summer from the Special Collections include ones about Lampeter’s subjects and programmes for future editions of the poet, satirist and politician Andrew Marvell; Bonnie The Link and look forward to hearing from you if you want Prince Charlie and the Jacobites; Islands of Wales; and to be included. The next subject area to be featured will be John Evelyn. The next Archive exhibition due to go online ARCHAEOLOGY. is a series of interviews published in the College magazine during the 1920s and 1930s entitled ‘Dons in their Digs’. We are keen to hear about what made your time at SDC, These humorous and gently irreverent interviews by or SDUC, or UWL, or UWTSD, so special and memorable. student reporters reveal a fascinating insight into collegiate What stands out in your memory? Who were the lecturers life. A further archive exhibition in the pipeline will explore who must inspired or influenced you? How did the college life at Lampeter and Carmarthen during the Second skills you learned equip you (or not!) for what you have World War, when both Colleges accepted evacuee students subsequently gone on to do in your lives? from other colleges – such as Wycliffe College being hosted at St David’s College, and King Alfred’s School at Dr Chris Deacy (1994, 1996, 2001) Trinity College. Reader & Head of Religious Studies Department, University of Kent Due to generous donations from alumni during the last year, there are also many new items to catalogue and to add to the archive, along with some additional material for the 1970s Ystrad Meurig Grammar School archive. [This school was established by Edward Richard of Ystrad Meurig, a village PAUL BRIDGE 1975–78 near Lampeter, in about 1734 and later renamed as St John’s I was at Lampeter 1975–78 and still use what I was taught College, developing as a preparatory institution for pupils there. These days I am Pro Vice Chancellor at St Mary’s who wished to go on and study at St. David’s College or at University, Twickenham, and regularly apply my grounding the University of Wales. From the 1950s, the school gradually in geodemographics and market research. declined, and the last headmaster resigned in 1973. – Ed.] I loved my time at Lampeter and am looking forward to Nicky Hammond (2009, 2011) catching up with many of the old gang at Sue Gandy’s UWTSD Lampeter Campus Archivist reunion in September.

ALUMNI UPDATES At the end of 2019, it was a pleasure to establish contact with graduates in THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES for an article in The Link which sought to trace their lives post-Lampeter and how their degrees in TRS led to a career in academia. Since that issue was published, a number of you have been in touch with us to write about your career trajectories and, specifically, how your time at Lampeter kick-started the personal and professional paths you have followed.

In April, 2021 I sent out a call to graduates in GEOGRAPHY, a department which was the biggest in the University when I arrived in 1991, but within a decade it had sadly closed. This subject is the focus of the Alumni Update below. I have split up the reminiscences into particular decades, ranging from the mid-1970s through to Left to right – Front: Paul Bridge, Andy Tolley, Richard Austin the final cohort who graduated in the early 2000s. Back: Steve Kaczmarczyk, Alek Sadowski, Paul Rothwell [Editor’s notes: 1. The call generated such a huge response that we will be publishing the contributions in two instalments; the PAUL ROTHWELL 1975–78 second part will be in the next issue of The Link – Winter, 2021–22. I graduated in Geography from Lampeter way back in 1978 2. Many contributors have sent us fascinating before moving off into a career in the private sector. I am photographs – though unfortunately in some group still currently active with IBM where I have had a career ones, they have not identified themselves. We have, in Business Planning (both Strategic and Operational) for however, still included them but if any of you can identify the best part of 35 years, working across three different yourselves, please let us know! – Ed.] continents.

11 1980s

GILLIAN HOLF 1979–82 I’ve had a variety of jobs including school-teacher, Government Researcher and operating a computer help desk until I ended up in universities as a programme manager and change agent – I fell into this as my boss said I knew something about computing.

On leaving Lampeter, I was at teacher training college feeling teaching was not really for me when I got a phone call from Dr David J A Kirby asking if I fancied coming back to Lampeter to study for a PhD.

As I didn’t have anything better to do in October, 1983, nd I started on a ESRC (Economic and Social Research 2 year field trip to Majorca Council)-sponsored PhD into the non-retail use of the high street. After an accident, I did not complete within the three years and with teaching and working it went into suspension. In 1999 my husband came home from work saying he was being sponsored to do an MSc, to which my response was: “You are not going to get a higher degree than me”. So I blew the dust off my PhD and as I was working in a university found a supervisor and submitted in 2002. I was successful with only having to make very minor amendments.

So, in July 2002, I collected my PhD from the University of Portsmouth just before the Use Classes Order changed [regulations concerning change of use of properties – Ed.], which would have made the thesis useless.

Collecting samples from a quarry, perhaps near Lampeter. Left to right: Gillian Holt, Len Wyatt, [unknown], Robert Harris, Mark Humphries

then took a decision and became the oldest student on my Swansea University PGCE Geography course at the age of 40, after which I had fifteen brilliant years of teaching Geography [Daearyddiaeth (having learnt Welsh)] and Business Studies at Brecon High School. I am now retired and an enthusiastic golfer, walker and e-mountain biker.

TREVOR NEWMAN 1982–85 Gillian Holf in a group on her Lampeter graduation day in 1982. I was lucky enough to study Geography in Lampeter during a dynamic time for the subject at the College. Arriving in 1982 to a department populated by Mike Walker, Dave Kay, MARK HUMPHRIES 1979–82 Dave Kirby, Paul Cloke, John Dawson and Rob Page (social I can say that initially I didn’t make much use of my policy – and coach of the college football team) it was an degree other than that it helped me to locate where my inspirational time to be a SDUC geographer. first employer Woolworths were, who fast-tracked me into management. I then moved into retail consultancy I returned to South Wales to study for my PGCE in and periods of Commercial Management for the National Geography and Physical Education at Swansea. Thwarted Museum and Galleries of Wales, as well as an odd move at first trying to stay in Wales owing to a lack of available into cheese. jobs, I cut my teeth at the chalk face in a rural school in the middle of the Norfolk broads. Engaging a year 10 class I literally became the ‘big cheese’ for a food distribution in a tourism lesson by asking, “Hands up those who have company until mad cow disease destroyed the market. I been on holiday overseas”, and then finding out that four of

12 them hadn’t even been to Norwich 18 miles away, certainly since a get-together in 1996 but hope one day to visit again. reinforced the importance to me of travel in order to Happily, I am still meeting College friends very regularly broaden the mind. After two years I secured a Second-in- and have also kept in touch with many on social media. Department post in a Catholic high school in Pontypridd It is certainly true to say that the three years studying where I stayed for the next nine years, met my wife, and geography at Lampeter shaped my life. became a “valleys boy”. So far, so typical, you would say, but on a wet evening in 1999, stuck in a motorway traffic jam, everything was about to change, as the other half observed 1990s that I was in a bit of a rut so why not do something a little different. A year later we were off to Malawi for my first PAUL BLACK 1996–2000 international teaching position. Both my wife and I studied at Lampeter between 1996 and 2000. I studied Archaeology and the Environment To say exchanging Pontypridd for Blantyre was a bit (Physical Geography) and Katherine studied Geography. of a culture shock would be an understatement but it We got married in 2009 and our best man was also a is something I would not have swapped for the world. Lampeter Geography graduate, Michael Rice. The students and people of ‘The Warm Heart of Africa’ were amazing. The geography was spectacular and field Katherine and I started our careers in mapping for trips on top of 1500-metre plateaus, lessons interrupted the British Government (Defence Estates and DEFRA by lightning strikes, and taking our 1976 Land Rover on [Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs] wild excursions were just a few of the many highlights. respectively) before moving to nautical charting at the Unfortunately, after a year, an economic collapse in Malawi United Kingdom Hydrographic Office. In 2017, we moved forced our return to UK, but the travel bug had well and to Denmark to work at the Danish Hydrographic Office, truly entrenched itself into my psyche. charting Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Greenland.

In 2006 it was back to Africa to teach at the International I have represented the UK, and more recently Denmark, School of Moshi on the slopes of Kilimanjaro and to at the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO), the experience everything that the astonishing country of body responsible for coordinating and standardising global Tanzania and the rest of East Africa had to offer. When data collection and distribution. your first fieldtrip is camping in Tarangire National Park and waking up to an overnight lion kill 50 metres from We have now established our own company (Black Marine your tent, you really start to appreciate the chances you Data Solutions) delivering data-focused solutions for have been given. geospatial content and nautical customers. Our work has taken us to many places and we have worked with people In 2008 came a return to Europe and Lisbon in Portugal from all over the world to deliver navigational products to be Head of a Humanities Faculty. Then the big move to that ensure the safety of vessels at sea. The themes of Hong Kong in 2011 and the opportunity to teach, run trips geography, and in particular cartography, remote sensing to Bali, watch copious amounts of 7s rugby, and explore and GIS, run through all of our professional work – first just about the whole of South-East Asia – and even to developed in our studies and experiences at Lampeter. celebrate 50 years by walking the Inca trail in Peru. ADAM BROWN 1994–97 All the above would not have been possible without the quality of learning and inspiration I received studying My formative years were spent devouring issues of in the Geography department at Lampeter. I am still National Geographic, poring over maps, and developing an heartbroken that others have not had the opportunity affinity with the great outdoors, so studying Geography at to study the subject at the College since 2001. Owing to uni was a given. SDUC wasn’t my first-choice institution being away from the UK nearly every time the Reunion but I’m so thankful I went there. The Geography weekends come around, I haven’t been back to the College department was thriving, the campus friendly and the community close-knit. Cliché I know, but the highlight was the lifelong friendships we made and the socialising we perfected! Inspired by my study and longing for adventure, I became rather nomadic. I lived on a kibbutz in Israel, volunteered in a Romanian orphanage and backpacked my way around the globe, financed by a string of temporary jobs. But a career beckoned. I spent a few years as a Police Officer in London, worked with autistic children and dabbled with teaching, but nothing quite hit the spot. After a period of self-reflection, I decided to pursue my dream of a conservation-based career in New Zealand. In Trevor Newman with some of his Hong Kong graduating geographers 2009 I made the move and studied for an Environmental

13 MATT CALLAGHAN – 1998–2001 I graduated from Lampeter in 2001 with a 2:1 degree in Geography. In the 20 years since I have had a career in Local Government and more specifically in Economic Development. It’s absolutely not something which I had considered during my time at Lampeter, but it’s been enjoyable and rewarding throughout.

I have been working across two local authorities in Hampshire, lately becoming Economic Development Manager at New Forest District Council. However, I have recently started a new role in the Economic Development Adam Brown (right) on his Lampeter graduation day in 1997, with Team at Swansea Council and have relocated to Llanelli. Andy Truscott (centre) and Howard Zabell (left) In particular, I now work on regeneration projects which by definition look at how people engage with and use public space. If nothing else, I think that my degree gave me the platform from which to launch my first local government role, which included strong elements of tourism and visitor management – the rest, as they say, is history (!).

I remain incredibly proud of my Lampeter past. I talk about it on a regular basis and even mentioned it in the interview for my now-current post. I honestly don’t think that there’s another university where I could have felt so comfortable and at home. Coming from a rural background, it was always right for me and provided a sound basis for the Adam Brown in March, 2021, while working on Taranga Island off the following twenty years – and likely more. North-East coast of New Zealand TARA DUNCAN – 1990–93 Management diploma and a Biological Science degree. I I’m a 1993 Geography graduate. I then worked for a worked for six years as a Biosecurity Officer specializing number of years before I went back and studied for in pest plants but resigned to be able to walk the length my MSc and PhD at University College Lampeter in of New Zealand, covering 3,000 km over four months. Geography. Currently, I carry out short-term conservation contracts on islands and in my downtime can be found hiking in the Since then, I’ve been an academic – although I am now mountains where I’m happiest. in Tourism but I use my Geography in everything I do (teaching/research etc.). Though now a resident of New Zealand, I often fondly reminisce of my time at Lampeter, three of the best years of I worked at the University of Surrey, Durham University my life. and the Royal Geographical Society (all short contracts) before moving to New Zealand in 2007 to work at the University of Otago for ten years. In 2017, I moved to Sweden and am now a Professor in Tourism Studies at Dalarna University.

14 REPORTS – YEAR GROUP REUNIONS AND OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS, 2021 PROGRAMME OF MONTHLY VIRTUAL TALKS FOR 2021 – REPORTS AND NOTICES expeditions to the mountain, where he was responsible for the finding of George Mallory’s body. He talked about Everest, Spring walks, aero engines and yetis. [See a review of his talk on p.18 – Ed.]

5th July – Adrian Mourby (1978): ‘Rooms with a View’ Award-winning, multi-talented author, drama producer and hotel historian, Adrian Mourby, has featured in the Channel 5 series World’s Most Expensive Hotels, in which he introduces some of his favourite grand hotels from VIRTUAL BOOK READINGS, around the world and tells their fascinating stories. 2021 PROGRAMME – 7pm START 3rd August – William Rathouse (2008, 2015): ‘Contested Heritage – Relations between contemporary 1st March – Pamela Petro (1986): ‘A Shock of Pagan groups and the archaeological and heritage Recognition: How Lampeter became my Welsh professions in Britain in the early 21st century – British Hometown’ Archaeological Reports British Series’ This talk was given by alumna and author, Pamela Petro. Join William as he reads excerpts from his book, talks Pamela graduated from Lampeter in 1986 and has, in her about the research behind it and discusses Welsh case own words, “never been the same since!” An American, studies. Pamela’s relationship with Wales has been punctuated by an intense feeling of hiraeth. Pamela’s talk was about 6th September – Simon Cockle (1989) : ‘Waiting for the her fascinating collection of nostalgia, Lampeter and the Echo – an anthology’ concept of place and home. [See a report and a review of Simon will talk about his time at Lampeter reading her talk on p.16 – Ed.] Literature and his journey into writing and poetry.

12th April – Annie Garthwaite (1984): ‘Cecily’ 4th October – Paul Morgan (1974, 1976, 1981): ‘Pelagius – Told through the eyes of its greatest unknown protagonist, A Roman-Celtic Hero’ this astonishing debut plunges you into the blood and Paul’s first novel, The Pelagius Book, took as its subject an exhilaration of the first days of the Wars of the Roses, a war enigmatic figure from the late Roman period: Pelagius, as women fight it. Annie read from her novel and talked who has an intrinsic historical interest. The story concerns about the long personal journey that led to its creation. how societies behave when under stress, with very [See a review of her talk on pp.16–17 – Ed.] contemporary echoes – for example in the responses to 9/11, Brexit, or even the global pandemic. There is a choice 3rd May – Chris Deacy (1994, 1996, 2001): ‘“Things ain’t between a rational, humane reaction, or giving in to fear, what they used to be”: Reflections on nostalgia and repression and blame, especially when these are fostered by religion’ political forces for their own advantage. Pelagius is a hero Chris looked at the connection between traditional and for our time, therefore, and one with a link to the Lampeter implicit ways of understanding religion, as highlighted in area too – but that’s another story. his podcast series, ‘Nostalgia Interviews with Chris Deacy.’ The series has enabled Chris to shed light on the role that 1st November – Charles Musselwhite (1996): ‘Walking. religion plays when people reminisce about their past, It’s far from being pedestrian’ how this relates to contemporary religious experience for “Every single journey begins as a pedestrian. Yet being a them, and what it says about the way we understand the pedestrian is poorly conceptualised, often overlooked and ever-changing location and place of religion in the world misunderstood.” Charles will be reading from his latest today. [See a review of this talk on p.17 – Ed.] book, Designing Public Space for an Ageing Population, and discussing some of the benefits to walking as well as some 7th June – Graham Hoyland (1979): ‘The Everest of the barriers we face as we age. Mystery’ After graduating from Lampeter in the 70s, Graham spent 6th December – Carl David Mclean (2001): ‘Time to Take 30 years working at the BBC and, in 1993, became the 15th Back Control: A Guide to Improve Mental Health and Briton to climb Mount Everest. This led to nine filming Well-being for a Strong, Healthy and Successful life’

15 to confirm the sense that I have felt for many years and REPORT ON THE 2021 LAMPETER decades now since I left that Lampeter doesn’t function like SOCIETY-FUNDED TALK, any other place. For me, I just assumed that if I had gone to st another university, I would feel the same sense of wonder 1 MARCH and longing – but Pamela, unlike me, had first studied in New Jersey for her first degree and has lived and studied in This St David’s day, the Lampeter Society hosted its other towns and cities around the world, including Paris. (virtual) talk for 2021. It was a great pleasure to have as our Yet none of them, despite all being perfectly good places, speaker for the event Pamela Petro, a renowned author and have resonated in the same way for her or to the same alumna of Lampeter. Among her many publications, she is extent. particularly known for her work Travels in an Old Tongue: Touring the World Speaking Welsh. In the talk, Pamela was able to regale us with her experiences of an American coming to Lampeter to study her Masters in Word and Image Studies, and how this journey fed into her future intellectual journey and literary career.

Cloud formation over fields near Lampeter (slide from Pamela Petro’s talk)

Pamela Petro (‘Zoom’ image) Pamela entranced us with a reading from her latest novel, The Long Field – a memoir based on her time in Wales, While it was a shame that Pamela was not able to be which has the tantalising subtitle ‘The Presence of Absence’. physically present in Lampeter due to the Covid situation, Pamela talked about hiraeth and that sense of longing for the upshot was that a wide audience of some 70-odd something we know we want but cannot have. It is that people from across Wales to the wider UK and America interaction we all have to deal with between the past, were able to attend – a truly international affair. On a present and future, and the unattainability of having that personal note, it was a delight to correspond with Pamela which we yearn for which seems to strike a chord with the and I look forward to having the promised ice cream with way Lampeter functions in our hearts and imagination. her in Conti’s. Pamela told us that she has been back some 27 times in 37 years and it was spellbinding to find out how the magic has Dr Matthew Cobb, Lecturer in Ancient History, never left her. She keeps returning to a place both physical UWTSD Lampeter Campus and ephemeral to placate this sense of absence, and she does so with a community (only virtual during lockdown) of fellow sufferers who all recognise the pull it has had REVIEW OF THE 2021 LAMPETER on us, to varying degrees, since the time we first set foot SOCIETY-FUNDED TALK, outside the Porters’ Lodge to pick up the key to our rooms 1st MARCH – and to our hearts in the decades and generations since. Dr Chris Deacy (1994, 1996, 2001) Chris Deacy’s brief reflections on Pamela Petro’s talk to the Lampeter Society

It was fascinating to hear Pamela Petro – not least because REVIEW OF THE APRIL, 2021 many of us will have experienced the same emotions TALK ON CECILY attached to living in Lampeter as she did when she went there in 1983 to start an MA programme on ‘The Word ‘An evening with Annie Garthwaite’ and the Visual Imagination’. While Pamela was talking, and spoke so eloquently about the sensations, smells, A most enjoyable evening was spent on Zoom with Annie fragrances and beauty bound up with the place, I felt talking around the subject of her forthcoming book, transported back to my own undergraduate days and Cecily. Annie started with some personal background. She succumbing to the same charms. What Pamela did was graduated from Lampeter in 1984 with a degree in English.

16 After careers both in publishing and business, at the age of scene. And then, there was the backdrop to his talk of 55 she became a full-time author to write Cecily, her first the view from Burgess Hall to Station Terrace and the novel. The main protagonist is Cecily Neville, who lived hallowed building of the College itself. Sunshine! Really? a long and eventful life. She was born in 1415 during the My memories are of wellie boots, blown-out umbrellas and reign of Henry V and died in in 1495, during the reign of wet, wet, wet (and I am not referring to a music group). So Henry VII. Thus, she grew up during the final years of the do we create the memories that give us the greatest access Hundred Years War and was the only major protagonist to that inaccessible home which was created through our in the War of the Roses alive before it started and to live beliefs of how it was and our understanding of the hopes beyond its conclusion. She was a matriarch in the House of and dreams we had, combined with the stepping stones of York and one of the most powerful and influential women music etc.? Chris referred to them as ‘Happy Days’ – TV of her time. programmes (Dr Who and all those other worlds!), and Sunday school with all those stories of heroes and history. Annie told us how she had developed a love of history in her school days. She had intended one day to write about One question during the talk was the place of dreams – are Richard III yet as she learnt about the various great women they perhaps prophetic, as with the men of old, or are they around him, Annie became increasingly interested in his creating nostalgia which we re-live time and time again as mother, Cecily. our brain sorts itself out with regard to the memories it is given? As part of the evening Annie read two passages from the book and proved there is nothing quite like hearing a novel It was interesting to me that as Chris was giving this talk directly from the mouth of the author. Annie’s passion, from his position as Head of Religious Studies at Kent joined with the engaging and imaginative text, made for Uni, and was sharing his yearning for things past, he was engaging listening. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one present the age I was when I started my degree in 1985 – both of who looks forward to acquiring a copy of Cecily when it is us having our thinking challenged from people such as published in July, and wonders what further treats Annie Dr Paul Badham (who seemed to write books at the same has in store for us in the future. rate as Ernie Wise the comedian), and DP Davies (Dean of Theology). At that stage, I was already deep in nostalgia for Martin Joss (1982) my life thirty years before. Yet my nostalgia has changed its nature now to match how my memories and views on life, religion, and science have developed since those days, as REVIEW OF THE MAY, 2021 commonly happens.

‘NOSTALGIA & RELIGION’ TALK Chris admits that he is still researching theology, life and death, films ancient and modern, radio experiences, creating more, (and don’t forget that appearance on Blockbusters!) and for those of us slightly longer in the tooth, it would be wonderful to hear Chris in thirty years’ time to see whether his nostalgia is greater and deeper – especially as he admits to wondering still ‘where am I going?’, whereas some of us realise our future is behind us and the places to go are limited by a birth certificate, so maybe nostalgia is the only way to go – back to those places where we were comfortable, happy, loved, and dreaming of some wonderful tomorrows.

Nostalgia – ‘A wistful yearning for a space/time for a home that is no longer accessible.’ So, we have (according to Christianity) faith, hope and charity, which all contain huge elements of nostalgia. What a way to spend a Bank Holiday evening! Being nostalgic! Reflecting on nostalgia and religion rather than Why not watch Chris’s talk and maybe tell him what you on the awful British weather. think, as he continues to help others to understand life and religion? So many of us wax nostalgic when the weather is bad and remember the wonderful climate of our childhood (more Marion Stuart (1990) imagined than real) and from the very start Chris showed us just how the memory can play tricks and even create [You can also watch Chris’s podcast series of interviews with memories. For a start, “Things ain’t what they used to be” colleagues and friends, including members of the Lampeter – oh no it’s not, it’s “Fings aint…” – and I know because Society. He has recorded and aired some 108 of them so far, on seeing the words I was shot back to the 60s, to the including with Lampeter alumni John Loaring, Brendan beginning of the career of Barbara Windsor, to the time McSharry, Pete Paphides, William Price, Marion Stuart, in my life when I was dreaming of being a Brunnhilde Esther Weller and Andy White – go to https://audioboom. with all the fun and friendships of the theatre and music com/channels/4956567 – Ed.]

17 the Chris Bonnington of the day, to find the body of John REVIEW OF THE JUNE, 2021 Hoyland, Graham’s uncle, who died on Mont Blanc in ‘EVEREST MYSTERY’ TALK 1935. In a letter, Frank had said that John’s body looked remarkably similar to one he had seen, using a telescope, on Everest at the bottom of a scree slope at 8,100 metres. Using this knowledge Graham persuaded the BBC to make a joint UK/American production in 1999 to try to discover Mallory’s body.

During this expedition Graham fell ill with altitude sickness and it was after this that the American climbers found Mallory – ironically, near some of Irvine’s equipment. Graham expressed regret that he hadn’t exercised more control over the situation as pictures of Mallory’s body were published. With hindsight he would have wished to have found the camera, buried Mallory’s body and not have issued the photographs.

Graham later found Somervell’s weather reports of the time which showed that a ‘killer storm’ hit the mountain Summit of Mount Everest (courtesy of Google Images) at the time of Mallory’s fated ascent. Mallory’s silk, cotton and wool layered clothing, which although surprisingly Seventeen fine Lampeter folk from all over the country and comfortable and easy to climb in, was not thick enough beyond joined Graham Hoyland, who himself was speaking to be able to survive that kind of weather. So the weather, from Italy. He studied English at Lampeter 1976–1979 and together with the lack of oxygen and the difficulty of describes himself as an author, mountaineer and sailor. He an almost impossible ledge, led Graham to think that also had a long career as a producer with the BBC. Graham Mallory’s team never reached the summit. Irvine’s body developed a passion for mountaineering during his time still hasn’t been found. at Lampeter – he admitted to being the ‘Treasurer’ of the ‘Roof Ramblers’ group! No terror could match that of Graham briefly mentioned his other exploits which trying to avoid being caught by the porters whilst exploring included a book about the Yeti, the Merlin aeroplane the tiles of OB! engine, and sailing (to sail the seven seas to match the seven major summits he has climbed). The talk was about George Mallory and Andrew Comyn ‘Sandy’ Irvine who perished in their attempt to reach the This was an informative and enjoyable evening which was top of Everest on 6 June, 1924. Did they reach the summit rounded off by an incisive question-and-answer session. though? Mallory and others had undertaken a reconnoitre of Everest as early as 1921 and had seen just how difficult Barry Knight (1985) the challenge was. By 1924 they had been joined by ‘Sandy’, an athletic young man, to aid Mallory who was by now approaching middle age. LAMPETER SOCIETY SWANSEA

Graham gave us an informative personal account that BRANCH REUNION AND DINNER began by informing us how his interest in the Everest story 2021 – AT A DISTANCE was stoked as a 12-year-old when he met his great uncle, Howard Somervell, who had been on two expeditions to Before the reunion Everest in the 1920s and was a friend of Mallory. With a lockdown here and a lockdown there, everywhere a On the fateful day of the doomed attempt, Somervell had lockdown, with a tier two here, a tier three there …we still given his ‘Vest Pocket Kodak’ camera to Mallory. If that have to decide on how the Swansea branch of the Lampeter camera could be found then Kodak had assured Graham Society will be celebrating St David’s Day on 1st March, that it would be quite possible to salvage photographs from 2021. the film. I guess that by then, those of us in the slightly older bracket Graham has been on nine expeditions to Everest and had will have been given the vaccine and will be safe to travel. produced a documentary with Brian Blessed for the BBC in How about a trip to Patagonia to celebrate with the Welsh 1990. In 1993 Graham became the 15th Briton to reach the Community there? The Rev. Sam Morgan, travelling with summit. his new wife, was once a clergyman there many years ago. We would be sure of a good welcome. Or we could hire Graham had family ‘inside information’ that would help a mini-bus and travel around the various campuses of find Mallory. His grandfather had employed Frank Smythe, the University of Wales. Some of our members would be

18 surprised at the great changes and improvements that have th been made since their last visit. NOTICE – POSTPONED 5 “OLD CODGERS’” RUGBY Or how about a coach trip to a campus in London, followed by a visit to the Honourable Society of MATCH / LATE 80s REUNION Cymmrodorion – an association of London Welshmen This now annual shindig when the classy old hands play who have organised the annual St David’s Day Dinner in the upstarts from the College will now take place (all being London since 1751? well) on Saturday, 23 October, 2021, at the town RFC. The kick-off will be at 2.30 pm. Each year’s match supports a Or perhaps, our usual short service in a local church, charitable cause and this time it will be Lexi, the daughter followed by a business meeting and lunch and whatever of former SDUC student Anthony Colcombe; she suffers exciting event we can manage legally to do in what we hope from a rare condition which can cause multiple seizures on will be a Covid-free Spring. Masks or no masks, we will a daily basis. Please come along and shout your support! enjoy each other’s company and celebrate St David on the 1st March. We are delighted to announce that Welsh Rugby legends John Davies and Dafydd Jones will take part in the game. Margaret McCloy

The reunion at a distance The itinerary for the Old Codgers weekend so far is:

nd The Swansea Branch of the Lampeter Society held their Friday 22 Gathering of the Old Codgers at the Black Annual Reunion, 2021, on St. David’s Day, Monday 1st Lion from 7pm onwards. Beer supplies will be bolstered in March, from 7pm to 9pm. We could not meet physically advance of this. because of the pandemic. A Zoom meeting did not suit rd everyone, so Margaret McCloy, the Secretary, came up Saturday 23 SDUC RFC vs SDUC Old Codgers RFC at with an innovative idea. To all the members she posted Lampeter RFC envelopes which contained a prayer; an address by Gareth Edwards (1978), the Minutes, and the Treasurer’s and the 2.30pm kick off. Chairman’s Reports. These documents were to be read during one’s meal at home. 4.00pm Buffet for all at approximately £6 per plate.

In his address, Gareth said that as a post-graduate he 6.00pm Auction of SDUC, rugby and football memorabilia. studied for a Ph.D. and was appointed a Research Fellow All attendees are invited to bring something to sell. in the Geography Department. A Korean pastor arrived in the mid-80s to study for a Ph.D., Rev Im Seog. He and 7.30pm Rockin’ for Lexi Gig. A double bill featuring the Gareth became firm friends. When Im returned to South legendary Riff Raff…yes, you read it right – back for one Korea, he invited Gareth to visit him, as he is a minister of night only! Also famous local artist Paul Dark (look him a church in Seoul with a congregation of 10,000! up on YouTube – he’s brilliant) with guest appearances from other local ‘artists’. All performers are offering their In the Chairman’s Report, I mentioned the Lecture given services free of charge to raise money for Lexi Colcombe. by Pamela Petro, the preparations being made for the bicentenary of the founding of the University, the ‘200 Midnight. We’ll probably get kicked out of the Rugby Club Lampeter Voices’ project, and the Celebratory Service in but fear not…a number of local hostelries have offered to St. Davids Cathedral next May. I rounded off my ‘speech’ by entertain us till we fall over. talking about the courses I studied in SDUC. Sunday 24th Captains’ breakfast at the Black Lion and Nevil Williams (1980) farewell gathering.

As always, these events have a cost so, as in past years, all UPDATE: LAMPETER SOCIETY returning alumni have been asked to contribute £25 on SEVERN-THAMES BRANCH arrival for the whole weekend’s events. Peter Bosley is continuing his efforts to see if a Severn/ All proceeds of the OCs 5 weekend will go to Lexi Thames (M4 corridor) branch of the Lampeter Society can Colcombe (see above). be established to facilitate alumni in that area keeping in touch. Please contact him by email: bosleypeter@yahoo. Do not miss this event….it will be legendary and probably co.uk quite messy!

 19 I’ll keep you all in the loop as things develop. Please look up the Facebook group ‘SDUC Old Codgers Last Run Out’ NOTICE – CARDIFF REUNION, and send a request to join it. All details will be updated 2021 on there and the ‘SDUC Disgo Heno’ FB page as they are finalised. Please spread the word to all alumni that you are Editor’s note: Unfortunately, this event, organised by in contact with; I think we need a good knees-up after all Susan Gandy [née Kearney (1979)] has been postponed this Covid business and OCs 5 will be the ideal time for it. until a date (yet to be announced) in 2022.

Ieuan Davies (1985)

JOIN OUR ‘200 CLUB’!

Our ‘200 Club’ continues to grow, with cash prizes given out monthly! Each time, half of the proceeds will be awarded to one lucky winner and half will go to the Lampeter Society to help us fund our activities and events.

Further information, including the registration form, can be found on pp.iv–v of this edition of The Link.

20 2022 LAMPETER SOCIETY REUNION 22 – 25 JULY 2022

This event is definitely not to be missed! After a two-year break, the bicentenary reunion will be a weekend of great celebration. Details and booking details will be coming soon but here’s a taster of what you can expect over this four-day extended Reunion weekend:

• 2022 Bicentenary Concert • Renowned Brummie comedian and Lampeter alumnus, Andy White (1994) • Talk and launch of Nicholas Groves’s (2000; 2008) publication on the history of the Lampeter robes • Annual pub quiz • Guest speaker, music journalist and Broken Greek author, Pete Paphides (1992)

The full programme and the online booking link will be posted on the Lampeter Society’s Facebook page and emailed to all alumni very soon.

21 FEATURES

THE LAMPETER EXPERIENCE – THE 1840s & 1970s

s In 1826, Bean was appointed the of the bankruptcy which he had From the 1840 first Police Magistrate in Gosford, a experienced previously. Bean sold his THE ‘THIRD ALUMNUS’ – REV. position he held for the next five years. land and in 1831, after his resignation, WILLOUGHBY BEAN (1801–1877) It was a position that would have given he managed lands of non-residents Bean added power and influence in on their behalf. A few years later Bean the community. However, during his had bought himself a herd of cattle time as Police Magistrate, Bean would and in 1837 was accused, along with a have had little time to tend to his lands few others, of cattle stealing. Bean was in the district owing to his primary bankrupt, and his fellow accused were responsibilities, one of which required noted as being “riddled with mortgage him “to sit on a bench listening to, debts, very difficult, mad and perverse and adjudicating upon, the numerous trouble-makers”2: the case against cases brought before him by the them did not look good. extraordinary litigious settlers of Brisbane Water”2. It was a “difficult The case progressed and the accused office that he handled without help. were chained and jailed by the new He kept the registers and wrote all his Police Magistrate, Alured Tasker official correspondence, which was Faunce. The three accused belonged to time consuming”2. the local gentry at the time and it was noted by Donnison in his publication The Rev. Willoughby Bean1 However, Bean’s duties as Police about the incident in 1838 that the Magistrate kept him very busy, as cow in question and its dispute had Willoughby Bean (1847) was many of the settlers’ litigation at already been resolved prior to Fauce’s baptised at St. Mary Abbots Church, the time concerned the grazing, arrival in the district. Bean, along Kensington, London, in 1801 to dealing in and stealing of cattle as with Donnison and Moore, were sent parents Willoughby and Elizabeth this was the main source of income to Sydney Jail on 27 January, 1837, to Haffey. Willoughby Jr. had ten siblings: for those not involved in the running await their trial. This took place on Elizabeth, Harriet, John, Charlotte, of the town. Because of the profit 3 February, 1837, and the men were Henry, Henrietta, Alexander, Anne, cattle could bring, the theft of them ultimately acquitted and discharged Susan and Maria. Their father, became something of a way of life without reprimand. The whole case Willoughby Sr., was a Major in the for many of the early settlers, many was a farce but the real motives Coldstream Guards and also captured of whom used convicts to run their behind both it and similar ones was by the French in the Napoleonic wars. lands. This, coupled with the lack of the need by Governor Bourke to He therefore sat out the remainder definitive boundary and vast rural clean up the district and stop the of the war at Amboise in France, areas with little oversight, made magistrates from abusing the power whereupon he was permitted to bring for an environment geared towards they had for personal gain, increased his family to join him. Upon returning the illegal. This would have kept wealth and career advancement. to England, Willoughby Jr. continued the local magistrate busy issuing his education and once complete summons, subpoenas, warrants and Towards the end of the case in July, he emigrated to New South Wales, recognizances. This is all relevant to 1838, Bean married Harriet Battely, Australia, in 1824 on the ship Courier. Bean as he himself was caught up daughter of Lt. Col. William Battely th He received land totalling some 2,000 in the middle of the Brisbane Water of the 60 Rifles and brother to acres in Brisbane Water, and on arrival Case in 1837–1838, accused of the very Thomas Cade Battley, an early settler in Sydney, immediately began his felony he had previously sought to of New South Wales. They were, work. resolve for others. as was Bean, of a protestant family. Once the case was over, Bean left the Bean resigned from his services as district and moved to Banksmeadow Police Magistrate in 1831 as a result farm, although he once again became 1 Adams, John: ‘From these beginnings: bankrupt and in 1844 he left Australia History of the Shire of Alberton’, in Johnson, and headed for Britain with his wife Ross (1834): Sentenced to Cross the Raging 2 Johnson, Ross (2004): Sentenced to Cross and two children. Sea: The Story of Sam Johnson, Victim of the Raging Sea: The Story of Sam Johnson, Oldham’s Bankside Riot 1834, online, https:// Victim of Oldham’s Bankside Riot 1834, books.google.co.uk/books?id=PvDesUzTxg self-published, p.201, citing Watson, Don Upon reaching Britain, Bean studied C&dq=willoughby+bean&source=gbs_ (1984): Caledonia Australis, William Collins, for his Holy Orders at St. David’s navlinks_s Sydney, p.187 College, Lampeter. He entered the

22 From the 1970s

BOB FONOW’S EXPERIENCE IN THE LATE 1970s

Well, here I am in Northern Virginia learning that my family and I may be in lockdown for months, and I see the same horrifying situation in the UK. I was impressed by the Welsh First Minister telling the people of Wales that the lockdown will continue, treating his constituents as adults. Regrettably, this is the second time I have been through this, having lived in Beijing until the second week of Willoughby Bean’s Parsonage (contemporary image – courtesy of Port Albert Maritime February. It affects my energy and Museum Archives, Victoria, Australia) concentration. College (now UWTSD) on 1st October, brandy, port and curries, and 1844, and left nearly three years later long after the Oyster beds had One of the things that keeps me in June, 1847, for his ordination in gone from Port Albert, it was going is my time at Lampeter in the London – though not before having said Parson Bean knew where to late 70s when it was still St. David’s his third child, Henry Alexander Bean, get himself a bagful.2 College. I came to the College as a born on 16th May, 1847, in Lampeter. mature student from the US Air Force in Suffolk, just a month short of my After leaving the Parsonage in th Five months later in October, 1847, 1859, Bean took up the position as 27 birthday, and the experience had Bean travelled back to Australia Incumbent Minister of the district a profound impact on my life. Until with Bishop Perry, arriving on of Tarraville until 1861. His next post fairly recently, I returned annually to 23 January, 1848, at Port Phillip, came the same year where he was visit my best friend, Don Jones, of the Victoria. Willoughby was ordained appointed Officiating Minister in the History Department in my time, until a deacon at St. James Church of district of Inverleigh. This post he he died [in February, 2016 – Ed.] – England, Melbourne, and posted to held until 1867, after which he was living in China, the trip was far from Williamstown by Bishop Perry but appointed as Chaplain at a Lunatic easy. was soon given a new commission in Asylum in Victoria between 1867 and Gippisland. 1875. Bean died two years later, in 1877 But my spirit remains in Lampeter at the age of 76. in a way that many graduates will After a long, arduous, three-week understand. I think of the Chapel, and journey by boat and on horse, Kyle Thomason (2015, 2017) the hymns I sang there with so many Bean reached his destination and classmates over the years. I think established his parsonage between the [Editor’s note. This is the third in a fondly of the library, where I went township of Alberton and Tarraville series of six biographical sketches to write when I couldn’t get to grips and it became the residence of the of 19th Century Lampeter Campus with a consulting assignment, and sat first permanent Anglican Minster of alumni, which follows on from the at the same table as when I was an Gippisland. profiles of the first alumnus, Revd. undergraduate studying for exams, Howell Prichard (1834) that appeared and the words came to me almost Bean remained in the area for the next in the March, 2018, edition of The immediately. I think of the beauty ten years and was described by one Link (No. LXXI, pp. 18–19), and of the of the campus. For me, coming to who knew him as: second – Prof. Arthur Barrett (1875) in Lampeter is akin to a pilgrimage. It’s the Summer, 2019 issue (No. LXXIV, where a little bit of God resides in the strongly-built, below average p. 16). The author of these biographies, memories and spirit of the Founders height, careful and methodical, Kyle Thomason (currently Archives and all of those who contributed over humble-minded but not a great Assistant at the Hampshire Archives in the years, served Church and Country, orator. A man of culture, he was Winchester) had been compiling (with became educators, policemen or considered by Bishop Perry to the support of Sarah Roberts, former civil servants, business people or just be the best Greek Scholar in the UWTSD archivist) a database of old led decent lives and I think it is the diocese, and with his French students from the College since it first Lampeter in our lives that is going to background, he was quite able opened its doors in 1827. It involved sustain us in the next few weeks and to conduct a service in French transcribing original documents, which months. including the sermon…Bean hopefully might be made into a website was known to have a liking for one day.] Bob Fonow (1979)

23

MARGARET McCLOY’S owing to only eight people responding EXPERIENCE OF LAMPETER to the invitation to attend. OK, a REUNIONS AND SWANSEA private room at a restaurant was out, BRANCH MEMORIES FROM THE so I invited them to our house for LATE 1970s ONWARDS dinner and a meeting. We would make sure that the branch became dynamic. I have been to nearly all the Lampeter It had been active for the last fifty Summer Reunions for the last forty years and we weren’t going to let it fail years. I loved them – I made lots without a struggle! of friends and ate lots of delicious

dinners. I almost convinced myself John Morgan, son of the late Reverend I had a degree and had studied Evan Morgan, who was a leading light at Lampeter. But no, I was just as Secretary for over twenty years, accompanying my husband Robert offered to walk the whole of Swansea McCloy. I was nearly seventy years and the Gower peninsular recruiting old when I realised that my degree new members. Knowing John, I was was all in my mind – and I didn’t even sure alumni would be begging to join speak Welsh! When I was younger, us. my father, a Victorian who thought it was a waste of time for women to For many years Betty Newbury was study, wouldn’t allow me to stay on at our brilliant Treasurer, a role now the Grammar school and take my ‘A’- ably taken on by Caroline Lewis who levels – “It’s a waste of time for girls to nobly writes the minutes as well as study; they just get married and have playing the organ at the short service a baby”. we have before the meeting. Our new Margaret McCloy’s graduation in 1992 Chairman is Nevil Williams, who So, no ‘A’-levels for me…I just got is determined to keep up the good married and had a baby. work. The Reverend Bill Fillery is wife Stephanie kindly accompanied our Lampeter Liaison Officer and I, Years later, in my seventies, I realised me to St David’s Hall, Cardiff, where I no longer Chairman, am getting off my father was no longer with us to tell was awarded my BSc. lightly, just sticking on stamps and me what to do. Yes, I would study for doing the typing. a degree. So I enrolled with the Open A few years ago, the St David’s Day, University. Dr Brinley Jones and his Swansea Branch dinner was cancelled Margaret McCloy

24 OBITUARIES

few years of his life. He went into His assistant curates speak highly of BRIAN CURTIS hospital where he caught Covid-19 him: one, Rob Morris, joined him in (1945–2020) and sadly passed away at the end of 1978 as Chaplain to Centre 13, the November, 2020. full-time youth and community centre of St Mary’s. This, he writes, was: John Loaring (1967) a typical Lorys arrangement of circumstance, funding THE VENERABLE and timely moment. He had a rich ability to engage with LORYS DAVIES people, in business, the arts, (1936–2021) local-authority and health services; with dementia patients in our local hospital; listening and responding to young people; and building relationships with Moseley’s many rootless Brian Curtis and often damaged people. He was a trusted magistrate, an exciting organist, a resourceful Brian Curtis graduated from Lampeter liturgist and preacher, and a wise in 1967 with an Honours Degree counsellor. in Philosophy. Originally from the Manchester area, he had been He loved show business, and once educated at Oldham Hulme Grammar accompanied Lenny the Lion and School; his family later moved South Leslie Crowther as a stand-in and he continued his education at pianist at the Alexandra Theatre, Harrow County Grammar School. Birmingham. The Venerable Lorys Davies (courtesy of the I remember him at Lampeter as being Church Times) In 1981, the Bishop of Birmingham, quiet, reserved, studious and always Hugh Montefiore, appointed Lorys smartly dressed in blazer or sports Diocesan Director of Ordinands jacket and flannels. He perked up The Ven. Lorys Davies died on 25 (DDO) and a residentiary canon of considerably after the first women February, aged 84. Always evidently Birmingham Cathedral. arrived and indeed went on to marry Welsh in heart and voice, he lived as a one of them, Gillian (whose surname gracious expatriate ministering to the Lorys was well-moulded for his has, regrettably, been lost in the mists needs of his English neighbours. new appointment when, in 1992, he of time.) became Archdeacon of Bolton, in He graduated from Lampeter in Manchester diocese. Sometime after graduation, Brian 1957 and trained at Wells. At 23, he went to live in Canada and stayed was ordained deacon to a curacy in there for 13 years. He became a Tenby. He then took up English school David Gillett, his second Bishop of successful businessman and ran both chaplaincies, first in Brentwood, then Bolton, writes: a restaurant and a computer store. On in Solihull. His Solihull headmaster his return to the UK, Brian lived in commended him thus to his next He was pre-eminently a pastoral Horsham, West Sussex, and went to appointment: “I’ve seen many archdeacon. No phone call about work for British Airways as a senior [parsons] at close quarters. Lorys leaking roofs, chronic illness, manager in their I.T. department. Davies is one of the finest I have ever burglaries, family traumas, and known. Don’t expect an easy time or a the rest would ever be [delayed]. Brian had two sons, a daughter and light commitment.” Lorys was there at the very seven grandchildren. He and his wife earliest opportunity, even at very subsequently divorced and Brian went That next appointment, made by unsociable hours. Lorys would to seek a new life in Thailand. Sadly, he Bishop Leonard Wilson, was as somehow work things out. had not been there long before illness Vicar of St Mary’s, Moseley, in south forced him to return to the UK. He Birmingham. For 13 years, Lorys Lorys retired in 2002, and he and his was diagnosed with multiple myeloma ministered the gospel and cared for wife Barbara moved to Bromsgrove, and he suffered ill-health for the last his congregation. where he assisted at St John’s.

25 More recently, Lorys’s health declined, Despite cultivating a college ‘tough an insidious disease able to cut down and Barbara gave every energy to guy’ image, with a combat jacket those who have so much more to nursing him. A loving couple, they often worn on top of the football give. In summary, it was Sheffield and celebrated their diamond wedding shirt, Glynn had a heart of gold. He Lampeter that defined him and made anniversary last year. highly valued his friends (with whom him the man that he was. We were he opted to live in Harford I and II proud to be his friends. He is survived He leaves behind his wife Barbara and for two years), loved dogs (Yorkshire by his mother, brother and sister in two sons, Christopher and Mark. Terriers of course), sang in a choir, and Yorkshire. maintained strong ties to his family in The Rt Revd Dr Colin Buchanan, Sheffield despite working for most of Michael Thomas & Daren Moss Bishop Emeritus of Woolwich his career in London. (1988)

GLYNN GARLICK CANON WILLIAM J. (1967–2020) ISAAC (1949–2021) Glynn (1988) was a professional Yorkshireman. Henderson’s Relish made in Sheffield was proudly applied to his food and he was a devoted fan Glynn Garlick while a student at Lampeter of Sheffield Wednesday football club, routinely sporting their blue and white colours during his time at Lampeter. During his time at Lampeter, Glynn favoured hangouts like Conti’s Cafe and the Chinese takeaway and also had a high regard for the porters. He left the University with a deserved Upper Second. After a stint at Mishmarot kibbutz in northern Israel, Glynn entered journalism after training at Stradbroke College in Sheffield. It was a good fit: he worked hard, wrote well, and had an eye for detail.

Canon William Isaac upon his installation as He moved from local journalism in Canon of St. David’s RC Cathedral, Cardiff Rotherham, Doncaster and south-east Glynn Garlick while a student at Lampeter London to independent media organisations in the capital producing The Rev. Canon William J. Isaac (1970, Having studied for a BA Honours in reports on commodities such as 1971) was born in March 1949 in History between 1985 and 1988, Glynn petrochemicals. Latterly he was a Pontypridd and was brought up all his always looked back fondly on his time well-regarded and liked sub-editor at life in Cardiff. at Saint David’s University College. He Argus Media in central London. He greatly enjoyed returning to the town was a bit of a workaholic and never He went to St. David’s College, with friends and installing himself married. He lived in Beckenham in Lampeter, to read Theology and in Conti’s cafe with a coffee and ice south London. Biblical Studies and a Diploma in cream. He would readily recall his Pastoral Theology (graduating overall favourite stories, particularly if they He took his hobbies seriously: in 1971), and then for further studies appealed to his rather wicked sense of snooker (very competitive), reading to Salisbury and Wells Theological humour. (continuing his love of history), College to undertake a Pastoral cinema (encyclopaedic knowledge), Diploma at Southampton University. In this regard, the authors still recall classical music (always seeking the one of them being escorted from the best rendition), and music more He was ordained as an Anglican refectory lunch queue on Rag Day to generally which he really loved. It was priest in 1973 and had curacies at the have a bucket of foul-smelling slime a good thing that the ‘best’ version of parishes of Sandfields, Port Talbot, poured on them. The fact that by Candle in the Wind (by Kate Bush) Gilfach Goch, St Saviour’s and Splott. contemporary tradition such ‘fun’ was was played at his funeral otherwise he He was then appointed Vicar of supposed to have ceased at noon only would not have been amused. Gilfach Goch. William was received amused Glynn (who had generously into full communion with the Catholic made the charitable donation paying Tragically, Glynn died at the age of 53 Church by permission of Archbishop for the ‘hit’) even more. in November, 2020, from Covid-19, John Murphy.

26 Canon Isaac studied for the Roman It was very sad about George Catholic priesthood at the Pontifical GEORGE LILLEY Lilley. Although I didn’t work Beda College in Rome and served (1936–2021) with him, he used to come to in the parish of Sacred Heart, the library in the evenings when Morriston. He was appointed I worked there as an evening Chaplain at Cardinal Newman ‘book-shelver’, and he was always Catholic Comprehensive School, very interested in what was Pontypridd, and assisted at Our happening there. Over the last Lady of Lourdes, Mountain Ash, few years, he became very frail, subsequently being appointed Parish but you would still see him out Priest of St. Thomas’s, Abercynon. and about in the town. I will William was a very popular and see if we have any photographs active priest. of him, although I don’t know whether non-academic staff In 1995, Canon Isaac was appointed as tended to feature in the staff Parish Priest of St. Mary’s, Bridgend. photographs. During his time there, he served as Dean of the Bridgend Deanery, as Governor of St. Mary’s Catholic He was suffering from Parkinson’s Primary School, and as Chairman of disease during the last ten years or Governors of Archbishop McGrath so of his life, though he apparently Catholic Comprehensive School. died of Covid-19 at the end. Sadly, his wife Maureen had not seen him Canon Isaac presided over the closure since November of last year, when he and demolition of the old St. Mary’s entered a nearby care home. They had Church in Bridgend and the design, George Lilley (from the Order of Service for a daughter named Sarah. building and opening of a new church, his funeral) presbytery and parish complex. He George’s funeral service was held was appointed as Parish Priest of at St Peter’s Church, Lampeter, on St. Teilo’s with Our Lady of Lourdes Dr George Peter Lilley, former 20 January, 2021. The officiating in February, 2014, returning ‘home’ member of the University staff, sadly ministers were the Reverends Dr Marc to the area in which he grew up. In passed away in early January of this Rowlands and Victoria Hackett. December, 2015, the Archbishop year, 2021, aged 85. He served as of Cardiff, the Most Rev. George the University (Lampeter Campus) Brendan McSharry (1971) Stack, appointed him to the Chapter librarian from 1976 (when Robin of Canons at St. Davids Cathedral, Rider was sub-librarian) to the year entitling him to use the title of Canon. 2000. He was a long-standing resident THE VENERABLE The installation ceremony took place of Lampeter. He was the son of a on Tuesday, 1st March, 2016 – St. German lawyer, who emigrated to JOHN OLIVER David’s Day. Britain before the Second World War. (1939–2021) Canon Isaac was due to retire in the George founded the Lampeter Summer of 2021 but was diagnosed Chamber Orchestra in 2005, was the with cancer during the recent secretary then Vice-President of the lockdown. He was fulsome in his Lampeter Music Club, where he was praise and gratitude for those who very involved with negotiations with helped him prepare for the operation. the Arts Council and programme He died peacefully on Palm Sunday, selection, and was also Churchwarden 28th March, 2021, following an of Lampeter Parish Church for a good operation at the University Hospital number of years. He was an authority of Wales the same day. He had been a on the works of two great English priest for 48 years. writers - Anthony Powell and John Middleton Murry. He and his wife The flag over the University’s Old were excellent hosts and held very Building was flown at half-mast in his convivial parties, according to Bill memory on the 3rd April, 2021. Fillery (1969).

Father Sebastian Jones, CO Nicky Hammond (2009, 2012) (Congregation of the Oratory), remembers George Lilley with great The Venerable John Oliver (courtesy of the Cardiff fondness. She remarks: Church Times)

27 The Ven. John Michael Oliver died on Joe Root of his day?) in the Ripon ordained in the Diocese of St.Davids, 23 January, aged 81. Diocesan Clergy Cricket XI. serving his curacy in the parish of Llandybie from 1951 to 1953, where He started as a boarder at Ripon A devoted husband and father, he he later returned as Vicar from 1971 Grammar School in 1953. He was was always appreciative of Anne’s to 1987. After five years in the Bangor known even then for being a very unstinting support and love and was Diocese, in 1957 he became chaplain persuasive and enterprising person, especially delighted when she was of the National Nautical School, as when he managed to cajole the elected for six years as Diocesan Portishead, a senior approved school headmaster into letting him go to President of the Mothers’ Union. for boys, where he remained until the 8.00am communion service at He rejoiced in his three daughters, 1971. the cathedral on Sunday mornings being immensely proud of their — something that provided him and achievements, not least in providing I did not meet Wynzie until 2003, a friend with a splendid opportunity him with six grandchildren. when I returned to the Lampeter to broaden their education and area after 30 years in England and entrepreneurial skills by nipping into Peter Toyne, Professor Emeritus, Germany, but then met him regularly. W. H. Smith’s, purchasing a copy of Liverpool John Moores University He and Mair always attended the the News of the World, and charging monthly hunger lunch for Christian eager boys a penny a time to read it. Aid and events like the annual CANON WYNZIE Christmas Dinner for the deanery After a while at Ripon, John Oliver clergy and their wives. went to read his favourite subject, RICHARDS (1925–2021) English, at St David’s College, Lampeter, from where he graduated in 1962. He then went as an ordinand to Ripon Hall, Oxford, before returning in 1964 to Ripon itself for his ordination. Three months later, he married Anne Barlow, whom he had known for quite a long time.

After curacies at St Peter’s, HIgh Harrogate (1964–67), and Bramley, Leeds (1967–72), he was appointed Vicar of St Mary’s, Low Harrogate (1972–78), and Beeston (1978–92). He had actually been born in Beeston and was proud to claim that fact on the rare occasions when Leeds United F.C. scored a winning goal at Elland Road, since it was in his parish. He became Rural Dean of Armley (1986–92), an Canon Richards (from the Order of Service for his funeral) Honorary Canon of Ripon (in 1987), and Archdeacon of Leeds in 1992, Canon Richards at Lampeter, 1948 (this where he remained until he retired photograph was carried by his wife in her You could guarantee that he would in 2005. He and Anne moved to the handbag thereafter) make some witty remark at your village of Barwick-in-Elmet (still in the expense, and even after the stroke same diocese, albeit this is now called The Revd Canon Treasurer Thomas that confined him to bed a few years Leeds), where they took a full and John Wynzie Richards, known ago and left him unable to speak, active part in parish life. locally just as Canon Wynzie, died there was still a twinkle in his eye. of dementia aged 95 on March 20th, He enjoyed writing poetry in English The Ven. John Oliver will, above all, 2021, in the Annedd Nursing Home, or Welsh, and when I retired in be remembered with great affection Llanybydder, having only recently 2010 he wrote a lovely poem for me. as a ‘people person’, always finding moved there with his wife of 68 years, As his daughter said at his funeral, time and caring lovingly not only Mair. They had continued to live in attended in the car park by many for his parishioners, fellow clergy, Cwmann since his retirement in 1992 ex-parishioners and friends, and and ecumenical partners, but also after five years as Vicar of Pencarreg relayed by tannoy – “Cyfansoddwr the many people whom he met as (which included Cwmann) and englynau [composer of englynau – a an active member and one-time Llanycrwys. Welsh poetic form]. Gwlad garwr President of Leeds Rotary Club. He [country lover]. Cymro go iawn [a real will also be remembered as a talented Wynzie graduated from St.David’s Welshman].” May he rest in peace and cricket-loving Yorkshireman (the College, Lampeter, in 1949 and was rise in glory.

28 Comments by his daughter Sioned group from 1974. Alan was a renowned microcomputers. It was while I was at Mair: professional computer engineer and Lampeter that I met my wife, Janice scientist, highly respected by all. Below (née Lewis), who started work in the My dad died this evening. He was 95. are two tributes from his University Computer Unit in May, 1975, with He had dementia. We had been losing colleagues and students. A celebration Alan as her boss; she spent the next him for some time. of the life of Alan was held in January, eight years working with him, until we 2021, at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, moved to Scotland. He was a miner; an approved Narberth. school teacher & chaplain; rugby Jan has family in Lampeter and before player; vicar; dad; enthusiastic taid In the early 1970s, SDUC received the pandemic we would visit regularly [grandfather]; owner of a bonkers funding for a computer link to the each year and intend to be back again dog; best livestock whistler; railway then University College, Swansea. this year. We thus kept in irregular announcer; garage door goalie; and It was soon realised that the contact with Alan and Bronwen, an old-fashioned socialist. He had a SDUC needed more than a link. A mainly via Jan’s family. It was Bronwen wicked sense of humour and the best stand-alone computer and a faster link who sent us the Order of Service for pokerface for downright lies. were installed and more importantly Alan’s funeral. a professional computing officer Married to Mair for 68 years, Dad appointed – Alan Rogers. Bringing Our memories of Alan are extremely instilled in me my love of books – he computing to SDUC at that time was fond. He was a very kind, calm and would take me to the library every a formidable task. Alan rose to the gentle person who was a delight to Tuesday. challenge with a quiet, super-effective work for and with. He was extremely style, and a great understanding of caring about staff and student needs Parch Canon Trysorydd Thomas the naivety of users. His patience and let us PhD students have the John Wynzie Richards. Cyfansoddwr in explanation of how to use the run of the centre and computers; he englynau; gwlad garwr; Cymro go new technology was unsurpassed. supported our research in every way. [translations above – Ed.]. We will all Nothing was too much trouble and Jan started work in the ‘old’ computer miss him so very much. his encouragement was boundless. room with Alan (near the Geography Help was always available to support department) before the new building Hedd, perffaith hedd [Peace, perfect researchers, teachers and students was built especially for the computer peace]. alike. He built a team of staff around unit. Alan was extremely proud of him that had the same values and the development (we think it opened Bill Fillery (1969) approach to supporting computer use. c.1981/1982).

Gradually he moved into teaching Dr Leigh Sparks (1985) ALAN ROGERS alongside upgrading the computer Professor of Retail Studies and provision. By the mid-1980s, when Deputy Principal, University of (1939–2020) I left the college, the computer unit Stirling was a core resource in teaching and research across the whole College – all due to Alan. Whilst unstinting in HERB SOLOW giving time to the College, he was also frequently to be found transporting (1930–2020) musical organs in a horse box trailer in support of Bronwen’s music shop.

Alan’s willingness to help, whatever Alan Rogers in the old computer room at the request and however varied, is SDUC, c.1976 (from the Roderick Bowen what I most remember about him. He Library and Archives Photographic contributed in a host of ways to the Collection) lives of people with whom he came into contact. Editor’s introduction: Sadly, a former member of the University staff, Alan John Dawson Rogers, passed away on 24 December, Emeritus Professor, University of Herb Solow (courtesy of variety.com) 2020, aged 81 years. He worked for Edinburgh and Stirling University the University from 1974 to 2000, a A post on The Lampeter Society 26-year period of service. He moved to I was at Lampeter 1979–1983, at Facebook page of 22 February noted Lampeter from Buckinghamshire with first studying for my PhD with John the death of Herb Solow on 19 his wife Bronwen and his children John Dawson, but then working for John, November, 2020, at the age of 89. (now aged 46) and Anwen (aged 42). Alan Rogers and Graham Sumner He was the former head of MGM, He helped to revive the Lampeter scout on the development of the use of Paramount and Desilu Studios in

29 Hollywood, and from 2005–2009, learned to speak and write Welsh. She harp and piano playing, composing a part-time lecturer in the Media was clearly, in effect, a kindred spirit music, exploring Celtic spirituality, department of the University (then of of Pamela Petro (1985). being still, and developing an ever Wales), Lampeter. closer association with the natural Bill Fillery wrote on Facebook that world. Solow was born to a Jewish family in Herb “was a very interesting man to New York City. After his graduation talk to.” For many years, David and I had felt from Dartmouth College in 1953, a ‘calling’ to journey further ‘into the Solow was hired by the William Brendan McSharry (1971) west’, in the footsteps of the Celtic Morris Agency in New York City saints, away from our home here to work in the mailroom. In 1954, in west Wales, to live out our days he was promoted to talent agent. in County Kerry where we used Later he was hired by NBC and FURTHER TRIBUTE: to holiday several times each year. transferred to Los Angeles in 1960 D. P. DAV I E S Tragically, while we were bringing our and was subsequently hired by CBS as plans to fruition, David was diagnosed Director of Daytime Programs, West I should like to thank contributors for with Stage 4 bowel cancer. He died Coast. their tributes to my beloved husband, just sixteen weeks later, his hand in Professor D. P. Davies, which I found mine. It may be that in time, and on In 1964, he joined Desilu Studios moving and consoling. [These tributes my own, I will still embark on this and was appointed Vice President of appeared in the Winter 2019/20 edition final pilgrimage in fulfilment of our Production in 1964. Solow oversaw the of The Link, No. LXXV, pp. 30–31 – shared dream, to the stretch of land development, sales, and production Ed]. I should also like to thank our on ‘the edge of the world’, that looks of Star Trek, Mission Impossible and dear friend, Lampeter graduate Father out towards the awe-inspiring Skellig Mannix. Tim Ardouin (1994) (who took David’s Michael. David will be with me, of that funeral), for his wisdom and support I am sure. Invisible to the human eye He was the husband of Dr Harrison since David died. he may now be, having experienced Solow (2009), who was a lecturer in a ‘sea-change’, but he lives on ‘rich English at UWL from 2004–2010 and David and I met in 1987. I graduated and strange’ in the quiet of my heart Writer in Residence in 2008. During from Lampeter in English (1990), and soul. He was the most beautiful her time at Lampeter, she wrote a later acquiring an MSc (University of person I have ever known, and I feel bestseller entitled Felicity and Barbara Bristol) in Systemic Psychotherapy. I blessed to have shared so many years Pym (Cinnamon Press 2010), as well worked for many years in the NHS in with him. as Bendithion and The Postmaster’s Wales as a UKCP-registered Systemic Song (Cinnamon Press, 2008). She also Psychotherapist. Now retired, I enjoy Heather Davies (1990)

MAKING BEQUESTS TO THE LAMPETER SOCIETY

Bequests are always most welcome and members of the Business Committee would encourage all alumni to include the Society in their wills to ensure that in the future we are able to continue providing a quality service for the College, alumni and current students.

30  MEMORABILIA LAMPETER SCARVES AND TIES FOR SALE Lampeter Society and University merchandise will now be on sale at the University’s new online shop though the funds generated thereby will belong to the Lampeter Society.

Scarves are in Saxony wool, 180 cm in length and 23 cm wide. There are nine stripes in black and gold on the front together with the logo embroidered in the central black stripe, whilst the reverse has five stripes in maroon, blue and gold. Each one costs £30.

Ties are in black silk and have a double diagonal gold stripe with the St. David (in-his-niche) logo; they cost £15 each.

Postage costs are now £3.20 for a scarf or £1.55 for a tie. A joint scarf and tie order is £3.20 as the ties do not weigh much. Two scarves are £4.65. This is because Royal Mail have increased their postage charges by 3% recently.

Orders and payments can be made online using the following link: https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/alumni-office/.

Richard Haslam (1994)

Scarves

Ties

31 MISCELLANEOUS THE LAMPETER SOCIETY GENERAL Enjoyed your time at Lampeter? … help us support the Lampeter Campus.

The Lampeter Society exists to support the Lampeter Campus of the University and to act as a focus for alumni. All Lampeter graduates are automatically members of the Society and those who give their contact details to the Alumni Officer receive a hard copy of the Society’s along other family members or friends. [See details of the full-colour, bi-annual magazine – The Link, copies of events scheduled for 2021 and 2022 on pp.34–35 – Ed.] which are on the UWTSD website in the Lampeter Society section. Other reunions and meals take place in various parts of the country, when there are alumni willing to organise Our support is given financially or in any other appropriate them. The Lampeter Society is always ready to support and way and covers the whole range of University life. In recent publicise these events. years we have: Andrew Leach (1977) • made annual donations to the Library and the Chapel • donated the History of the College – a sequence of large, pictorial boards – which used to hang in the cloisters INTRODUCING THE NEW though they are now in storage and in need of repair UWTSD ALUMNI OFFICER • funded an annual Lampeter Society lecture • bought a mobile bar for the campus catering team Hello, all. My name is Matt Cowley and I am the new • contributed towards the cost of the Harmony Garden Alumni Assistant for Lampeter. • subsidised a Rugby Club tour and kit for the Fencing Club I completed my undergraduate degree in Archaeology • purchased four volumes of John Donne’s poetry for the and Medieval Studies in 2020, and am now in the first Library as well as a book on C.R. Cockerell, the architect year of my MA Medieval Studies qualification, so I’ve of Old Building been at Lampeter for just over four years. During that • Paid for some conservation work of two of the Library’s time, I’ve been an active member of the University and treasures in the Special Collections – The Austen campus, taking on the responsibilities of Course Rep and Volumes Well-Being part-time officer in my first and second year • supported an international conference on ‘Globalism respectively, as well as being the President of the Medieval in the Ancient World’, organised by the Department of Society for the last two-and-a-half years. Ancient History. Also, I’m a Student Ambassador for the campus, meaning I However, all of these activities rely on the Society have helped out on major recruitment events such as Open having sufficient funds available. It is thus reliant Days and Student Experience Weekends to ensure that our on donations made to it. Some graduates make one amazing campus and community continues to grow and annually (the minimum requested is £20 – but if you prosper. wish to give more, this would be gratefully received). Such donations are essential to enable us to maintain I am looking forward to working with you all at the the range of support we offer to the Lampeter Campus Lampeter Society and to helping past, present, and future – please give generously. students at Lampeter to stay connected with the campus and one another. If you have any questions, please don’t The Society’s main event is the annual weekend Reunion hesitate to get in touch, either by a letter to The Link or to which takes place in July on the Lampeter campus. It the alumni email ([email protected]). includes the AGM and the Reunion Dinner. Details are to be found on the University website, in The Link, and on the Matt Cowley (2020) Society’s Facebook page. This is intended to be a relaxing, informal and enjoyable weekend for catching up with [Editor’s note. Matt Cowley is the new part-time Alumni old friends and meeting new people. The programme is Officer at the University’s Lampeter Campus and takes over completely flexible and you can take part in as many or as from Rhodri Thomas. We welcome Matt and wish him all few of the events as you like. You are also welcome to bring the very best in his new role.]

32 I have also been on the committee of the BGS which INTRODUCING THE NEW organised and ran a photographic competition in liaison LAMPETER SOCIETY with the website ‘Photocrowd’. It was entitled ‘Ageing – MARKETING LEAD the Bigger Picture’, to highlight positive ageing in society, gerontology and to promote the BSG itself and engage Hello, all. My name is Charles Musselwhite and I am the members – see https://www.photocrowd.com/contest new Lampeter Society Marketing Lead. s/374-ageing-bigger-picture/overview/ . This resulted in 780 photographs being submitted internationally, with I am very fond of Lampeter, having “almost” graduated over 200,000 views. This is attempting to change the in 1996 (before falling out of love with Archaeology and stereotypes of older people and challenge ageism. leaving to study Psychology at Southampton University instead). I moved to Swansea for work at Swansea I have never known any university I have studied in or University almost eight years ago and now regularly visit worked for which people feel such a strong connection to Lampeter. I want to be able to give something back to as they do to Lampeter. It is a very special place. the connection and love I have for Lampeter and the University, hence my taking up this new role on the Charles Musselwhite (1996) Business Committee. Much of my past professional activity Professor of Psychology, Aberystwyth University has, inter alia, involved marketing, as you can see below. INTRODUCING THE NEW SECRETARY OF THE LAMPETER SOCIETY

Hello, all. My name is Chris Reaney and I am the new Secretary of the Lampeter Society.

I first fell in love with Lampeter in 1977 when I stayed in College for a fortnight as a member of the British Youth Choir. When it came to applying to university, SDUC was my first choice, and I arrived in 1979 to do a degree Dr Charles Musselwhite giving a presentation at the Greater in Theology. I left in 1982 with a degree in Archaeology & Manchester Age-Friendly Conference in 2019 – drcharliemuss.com) Theology.

I am Director of the Centre for Ageing and Dementia In the meantime, I’d joined the Chapel Choir, been Research (CADR), a five-year project to bring together secretary of Music Soc, president of Arch Soc, and was researchers working in different disciplines related to a member of various other societies. I also took part in ageing with those in policy, practice and – crucially – HMS Pinafore, Trial by Jury, and Lock Up your Daughters, older people themselves. I have a network of 900 older and represented the College as part of the 1981 University people with whom I regularly communicate by means Challenge team (we got to the semi-finals). I’d even been a of newsletters, seminars and workshops, and I get them union hack, following Bill Gibson as VP Academic Affairs, actively involved in the research that we do. I formulated and I helped to plan the new Library. a communications and marketing plan that involved outreach through developing a logo, a website (www. The most important thing was the friendships I made cadr.cymru ), merchandise (pens, mugs, rulers, calendars there, many of which have lasted 40 years or so. – including a photo competition for those submitted each month – definitely the most fun part!), newsletters, formulation of regional support groups, public events, as well as hosting workshops and seminars. [From the 1st September, 2021, Charles will join the University of Aberystwyth as Chair in and Professor of Psychology. We congratulate him on this appointment. – Ed.)

2013–2020 I was a committee member for the British Gerontology Society (BGS), where I was Editor of Generations Review, the society’s flagship publication, changing the stance so as to be more inclusive, enhance readership levels and get more people involved and engaged in writing about gerontology. This I achieved, Chris Reaney with the College’s University Challenge team, 1981 growing the online readership from 100 hits per month to [They beat Jesus College, Oxford; Peterhouse, Cambridge; and Trinity almost 1,000, and submissions from around 5–10 to 15–20 College, Dublin. Unfortunately, they lost to an on-form Queens, Belfast, in pieces of work. the semi-final – who then went on to beat Edinburgh in the final – Ed.]

33 I have been a Vicar for 36 years, most of that time in the Lampeter is a unique place; it enters your soul. I am very South Wales valleys, so I am very used to committees. pleased to be joining the Business Committee and to help Having to be back for Sunday duty has meant I haven’t the Society promote the College and its uniqueness to been able to make every Reunion, but I will be leaving future generations of students. parochial ministry in the Autumn, and so will have more time to devote to other things.  Chris Reaney (1982) DATES FOR DIARIES, 2021

Saturday, 24 July Lampeter Society Virtual Reunion

Thursday, 18 November University’s Founder’s Day celebration

THE 2021 LAMPETER SOCIETY VIRTUAL REUNION PROGRAMME – 24 JULY

10.00 Welcome

10.15 AGM

11.00 Chapel service

11.30 ‘Reopening the Aberystwyth to Carmarthen railway line: an update’ – Mike Walker, Emeritus Professor of Quaternary Science, UWTSD

12.15 ‘Geographies of the past: uncovering the lost landscapes of Britain from the Stone Age to the Saxons’ – Dr Martin Bates, Geo-Archaeologist / Quaternary Scientist, UWTSD

14.00 ‘An update on life at Lampeter’ from Gwilym Dyfri Jones, the Provost of UWTSD Lampeter Campus.

15.00 ‘How Lampeter made me.’ A talk and question-and-answer session with writer, performer and broadcaster, Ian Marchant (1979)

19.00 Pub quiz

Between events, a slideshow of photos will be shown.

34 THE 2022 LAMPETER SOCIETY 85th ANNIVERSARY AND UNIVERSITY BICENTENARY PROGRAMME

26th February Launch of ‘200 Lampeter Voices’ (virtual)

28th February Swansea Branch meeting and dinner (at a distance)

2nd March Lampeter Society Lecture (topic and speaker to be confirmed)

23rd April “Old Codgers’” match at Lampeter RFC

14th May Bicentenary Service St Davids Cathedral

28th May London branch dinner

22nd – 25th July Lampeter Society Reunion

24th July Lampeter Society / Lampeter Music Society Bicentenary concert

8th October Commemorative Event Media and Training rugby session, Caio

15th October Bicentenary Rugby Match Lampeter University v Llandovery College, Lampeter RFC

REQUEST FOR COPY FOR FUTURE EDITIONS OF THE LINK

The deadlines below will have to be rigidly adhered to; copy received after the date stated will, regretfully, not be included.

* Winter, 2021–22 – Friday, 19 November, 2021

* Summer, 2022 – Friday, 6 May, 2022

35 MEMBERSHIP OF THE LAMPETER SOCIETY BUSINESS COMMITTEE

Chair / Reunion Coordinator: Esther Weller (1999) [email protected] Vice Chair: Chris Deacy (1994) [email protected] Treasurer: Andrew Leach (1977) [email protected] Secretary: Chris Reaney (1982) [email protected] Editor of The Link: Brendan McSharry (1971) [email protected] Deputy Editor of The Link / Severn-Thames Convenor: Peter Bosley (1967/1977) [email protected] Technical Support to The Link: Adrian Gaunt (1966) [email protected] Marketing lead: Charles Musselwhite (1996) [email protected] UWTSD Liaison: Bill Fillery (1969) [email protected] London Convenor: Richard Haslam (1994) [email protected] Swansea Convenor: Nevil Williams (1980) [email protected] THANK YOU

My grateful thanks to the following with regard to this issue of The Link: all the contributors, for their hard work and for adhering to the copy deadline; the Deputy Editor, Peter Bosley; Adrian Gaunt, for providing technical support; Esther Weller (Chair) and Chris Deacy (Vice Chair) for their ongoing support; Jill Sweet for her excellent design work; Sarah and Ashley Ward of Y Stiwdio Brint for their superb printing; and Matt Cowley for his tireless Alumni Office liaison and distribution efforts.

36 FFURFLENNI / FORMS CYFFREDIN / GENERAL CHANGE OF ADDRESS / NEWID CYFEIRIAD

To help us maintain the accuracy of our records, please keep this form until required then, when you change your address, return it to:

Lampeter Alumni Office, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Lampeter Campus SA48 7ED Phone: (01570) 422351; email: [email protected]

Also though, please update your contact details at the following web address: https://forms.uwtsd.ac.uk/view.php?id=193668

Name:

Year of Graduation:

Old Address:

New Address:

Postcode:

Email:

ii LAMPETER SOCIETY ANNUAL DONATION STANDING ORDER MANDATE

To the Manager [your bank]

Address of bank

Postcode

Sort code

Account number

Account name

Please pay The Lampeter Society the sum of £ ……………………. (The minimum recommended payment is £20, but if you wish to be more generous, this would be gratefully received.) Date of first payment: …………………………… (Please allow four weeks from return of the form to the start date of your standing order.) Date of subsequent payments: 1 March annually Iban no. for payments from abroad: GB36 LOYD 3094 8500 0724 66

Signed

Date

For Bank Use: The Lampeter Society, c/o Lloyds Bank, 9 High Street, Lampeter SA48 7BQ (Sort Code: 30-94-85; Account number: 00072466). Reference: The Lampeter Society – [your name]

Additional information for Lampeter Society and UWTSD records:

Name

Telephone

Email

Graduation year

Profession/ occupation

Please return this form to: Lampeter Alumni Office, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Lampeter Campus, SA48 7ED

iii INTRODUCTION

Welcome to our Lampeter Society 200 Club! We set it up to help us with our fundraising activities – our current priorities being the proposed events to celebrate the Bicentenary in 2022. Further information, including the registration form, is found below. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact Esther Weller (Lampeter Society Chair) at [email protected]

INFORMATION

* The Lampeter Society ‘200 Club’ is a private lottery and is open to all graduates, staff and past students of the Lampeter Campus of the University of Wales Trinity St. David.

* You pay a monthly fee and each month one member will win a cash prize.

* Membership costs £12.00 per year (£1 a month) or pro rata, in advance, renewable on 1st July each year. For example, if you sign up to the ‘200 Club’ in March, you will pay £8 for membership until the following June. This buys you justone unique membership number, which will be entered into a monthly draw – the same number each time. However, further numbers can be purchased throughout the year and also paid for on a pro rata basis.

* The Lampeter Society Business Committee will inform you of your allocated number(s).

* The prize fund will depend on the number of entries. However, the percentage will remain the same: 50% of the money collected each month will be distributed as a cash prize, whilst the other 50% will be allocated to the Lampeter Society. We shall use this in furtherance of our aim of supporting both the Lampeter campus and the whole range of university life there, as well as alumni activities that bring people together (such as the Annual Reunion).

* If you win, the money will be transferred to your bank or a cheque will be sent to your address. The name of the winner will be published in the Summer and Winter editions of The Link, unless you opt out.

* The prize draw takes place on the last Friday of each month and is drawn using the random number generator at random.org. The first draw of the next phase takes place on 30th July, 2021.

TO ENTER

If you would like a chance of winning, please complete and sign the membership form overleaf and return it to Andrew Leach, Committee Treasurer, at [email protected]. You may either send a cheque to Andrew (address available on request) or, preferably, transfer the membership fee to our bank account, using your name as the reference:

Lampeter Society 200 Club Account number: 20256668 Sort code: 30-94-85

Esther Weller (1999)

iv LAMPETER SOCIETY ‘200 CLUB’

APPLICATION FORM 2021/2022

Name:

Postal Address:

Email Address:

How many numbers would you like to purchase? (at a cost of £12 per number, per year, or pro rata)

 I agree that if I wish to cancel my membership I will inform the Lampeter Society Business Committee of this decision.  I understand that membership fees are non-refundable.

I give / do not give (delete as appropriate) the Lampeter Society Business Committee permission to publish my name in The Link.

Signature Date

v