The Old Pocklingtonian Note from from the Headmaster’S Desk the Editors

2 0 1 1 / 1 2 The Old Pocklingtonian Note from From the Headmaster’s Desk the Editors

We decided to go with an Olympic theme for the magazine cover this year and we are grateful to OP John Skinner for providing us with such a unique opportunity to do so! The front cover also represents another theme which we hope is evident as you read through the magazine and that is one of achievement. We hope you enjoy the magazine and reading about all the achievements, however big or small, of Old Pocklingtonians. Many of our readers love the Personalia section of the magazine which gives short updates about what In my report last year I thanked OPs who have OPs are up to. We would like to encourage as many Dear Old Pocklingtonians supported our careers networking and referred to OPs as possible to send in a sentence or two about James Pratt who had been given support in terms life post-Pock for next year’s magazine and send it to I had not anticipated that one of the duties of a of TV film-making. As an update, James has recently the OP office as follows: headmaster would be to judge the ‘Best Presented Polo Pony’ at a recent competition at the White Rose secured a contract in Bristol as a result of the OP Office Polo Club, Yorkshire’s largest polo club. I recovered opportunities provided for him. As the challenges for Pocklington School my composure when OP Joan Gough (née Sawyer, young people in securing employment continue, any West Green 75-77) offered technical assistance to ensure that I offers of support are much appreciated. Pocklington, YO42 2NJ made an informed decision. This was a remarkable Tel: 01759 321307 event as a Pocklington School sponsored polo team, The Archive Room has been completed, thanks to Rachel: [email protected] I presume our first, won. The team included Lord the generosity of donors, and we will be opening Joan: [email protected] Manton, a current Lyndhurst parent, and Guido, a the Room officially in the Michaelmas term. Angie David: [email protected] supportive and enthusiastic Argentinian. We certainly Edwards, the School Archivist, continues to appreciate Finally, please visit the new OP web site at hope to repeat the success of this event, when 70 all memorabilia sent to her. www.oldpocklingtonians.com for all the latest OP parents, pupils and OPs joined us for an enjoyable news and event information. Keep in touch! afternoon. The polo competition referred to in my opening paragraph was one of our Pocklington 500 events. I Best wishes As part of our own holiday to Hong Kong and would like to thank those Old Pocklingtonians involved China, Fiona and I enjoyed an excellent afternoon and also the Old Pocklingtonian Association for their at the YMCA in Kowloon, entertaining 50 people support of the inaugural Golf Day in May. I still remain connected with Pocklington School; current parents disappointed that I was not selected for the staff team and pupils, and OPs. I was surprised on the arrival of in spite of securing a comprehensive victory against Rachel Dare one parent, an Inspector in the Hong Kong Police, to Trevor Loten (1970-1980) and Malcolm Milne (1955- OP Liaison Officer be presented with his business card, kindly informing 1962) in December. However, I clearly need to move me that should I get into trouble I needed to phone on! this number. He then provided me with a second Ask Your Parents to Contact Us! business card which was that of his son, who is a I do hope that if you have an opportunity to join an lawyer, and stated “if you then do get into trouble, Old Pocklingtonian event you are able to do so as Over the years the school has lost touch with phone this number to get out of trouble”. Fortuitously, we move towards September 2013 when we will many of its former parents, but as we approach I needed neither card on this trip! I was struck at the commence our celebration of 500 years. the Quincentenary in 2014 the school is trying to reception by the remarkable warmth and support of get back in contact with as many former parents parents and Old Pocklingtonians towards the school as possible. Please can you help by asking your and here we were, 6,000 miles away on a terrace parents to get in touch via Joan in orthe by OP completing Office overlooking Hong Kong Island in 30 degrees heat. We [email protected] are a richer community for the different perspectives the enclosed postcard and sending it back to the and experiences which overseas students bring to the Mark Ronan school as indicated. Thank you. school. Headmaster

From the Headmaster’s Desk The President’s View OPA Committee Members OP Elected President: Tom Nash (1968-1977) Vice President: Andrew Wilson (1989-1999) Treasurer: Mark Longley (1969-1979) Henry Mitchell (1991-2002) Dear OPs, opportunities to enjoy Old Pock produce from locally David Moore (1978-1982) produced food, the hampers, with Old Pock mustard, Duncan Goodyear (1980-1985) There is lots of activity to refer you to in this year’s coffee, wine and our very own Old Pock Founders School Appointed magazine and calendar. We have been able to share ale! and celebrate far more in each other’s lives and the Mark Ronan (Headmaster) Pocklingtonian family is increasingly coming together We had the inaugural Pocklingtonian Golf Day with Rachel Dare (OP Liaison Officer, OPA Secretary) over 60 participants and a date has already been set with the school, teachers, pupils and parents in a Phil Donaldson (Teaching staff) vibrant community. to hold it again in May next year. The OP Golf Society has a number of new players on board and the team Sheena McNamee (Teaching staff) From the heights of Carnegie Symphony Hall to the is qualifying for the major tournaments such as the Ex Officio bottom of a muddy ruck, climbing a mountain face finals of the Grafton Morrish. Mark East (1972-1976, immediate Past President) to volunteering in Africa, from Cabinet Office to the front line, serving God, our community, farming, health The OP Summer Reunion was well attended with care and business, OPs are a wide and varied group lunch, tea, tours, year group reunions and tennis AGM – 2012 – although the cricket was rained off. I went with with a zest for life and a proud heritage going back The Annual General Meeting of the Old Pocklingtonian 40 other OPs, staff, governors, parents and friends 500 years – nearly! Association will take place on Friday 30 November of Pock on the WW1 Battlefields tour. An OP won 2012, 7pm-8pm inThe Gruggen Room at school. Please the first VC of WW2 awarded to the army and many We had an OP selected for one of the boats on the contact the OP office if you would like to attend. Drinks others gave their lives in both wars, so it was a special Queen’s Diamond Jubilee river pageant, we have an and nibbles will be available. All OPs are welcome. time to learn about and remember them for their OP Olympic torch bearer, we have OP players at Agenda as follows: national level in golf, rugby, climbing and hockey coming exploits and sacrifice. • Apologies back to give coaching and inspiration. We have OPs in local, national and international business coming back This year’s Leeds dinner is in October and the • Minutes of last AGM to give lectures to the Entrepreneurs Club. We have London dinner is at the prestigious East India Club • President’s/Secretary’s Report in November. The Archive, which many of you OPs in the arts and theatre performing on stage and • Treasurer’s Report and Approval of Accounts screen from the telly to the Albert Hall returning to contributed money and memorabilia to, will open in perform at school. We have OPs in touch with the autumn for you to visit and research. • Nomination and Election of Committee school from around the world – from California, New • AOB York, Malaysia and Hong Kong. OPs in South Africa We are making events more relevant to a wider are helping with this year’s school sports tour. audience. Hence meetings with a twist, such as a speaker, a performance, a tour, a focus, with specific This increased level of engagement is good for the friends, a year group, a trip or team reunion, a careers OPs themselves, for the school and especially today’s and networking bias. I can confidently say that you are pupils. You have lots of opportunities to get involved increasingly missing out if you are not there. and that you will find socially enjoyable, intellectually stimulating and career-wise very helpful. I want to thank all of you who have contributed and participated this year and the committee and team of Leaving Pock with or without going on to further Rachel, Joan and David for all their hard work. education, qualifications and associated debt, is tough at the moment. On the careers front, making So please let us know your news and keep in touch faceless e-mail applications often without a response with what is going on, and thank you all for being is depressing for our graduates and their families. By involved and for giving something back. networking with OPs and parents we are able to mentor, assist, encourage, provide office experience, Kind regards Cover Story CV help, interview coaching and access to employer OP John Skinner (1975-1982) carried the Olympic decision makers. In interview our graduates perform Torch through Ripon on Tuesday 19 June 2012 as well – they are confident, articulate and are “Inspired part of the Olympic Torch Relay. John was selected for Life” and this is securing them openings and jobs as an Olympic Torchbearer because of his dedication – even with other OPs! to facilitating sportsmanship in young people at North Stainley Cricket Club. Crowds gathered in Throughout the rest of the calendar there are Tom Nash the city to cheer him on for his once-in-a-lifetime numerous OP year group reunions and even President experience. John said “It was the most amazing and weddings this year that I am aware of – and lots of OPA humbling day – the crowds were overwhelming.” We are very grateful to John for allowing us to use his photograph on the front cover. The Old Pocklingtonian Welcome to the Old Pocklingtonian Association 2012 Leavers become Old Pocklingtonians!

2011 Leavers’ Destinations: Find out where they went

Andrew Arden Gap Year then Bishop Burton Lorrain Fisher Leeds Metropolitan University Kai Hang Liu Goldsmiths General Agriculture (2012) Business and Management Media and Communications Dan Atkinson University of Newcastle James Flint University of Sheffield Aimee Long Southampton Solent University Biomedicine (2012) Economics (2012) Writing Fashion and Culture Lauren Atkinson University of Liverpool Robert Foot University of Manchester Joshua Mainprize Central St. Martins College of Business Studies and French Music Art and Design Oliver Barber Employment Ashley Foreman Gap Year Diploma in Art & Design Thomas Beachell University of Northumbria Douglas Grant Employment Ross Marshall Sheffield Hallam University Design Technology Computer Science Edward Green University of Loughborough Eamonn Bedford University of Liverpool Industrial Design and Technology William Mason University of Northumbria Mechanical Engineering Biomedical Science Isaac Green Royal Agriculture College, Gregory Berry Manchester Metropolitan Cirencester Michael McKinstry Gap Year University Agriculture and Rocio Mondaca University of Manchester Business Management Farm Management Law with Legal Studies (2012) Thomas Hall University of York Tomas Moore University of Wales, Miranda Bond University of Cambridge, Accounting, Business Finance Trinity Saint David St John’s College & Management Philosophy and History Classics: Greek and Latin George Hardy Employment Alistair Moran University of Derby Thomas Brader De Montfort University Robert Harris University of Edinburgh Hospitality and Culinary Arts Foundation Diploma Philosophy Samuel Mortimer Exeter College in Art and Design Emma Hawcroft University of Durham Diploma in Art and Design Zak Branchette University of Newcastle History Sophie Nash Sheffield Hallam University Politics Edward Hetherington Kings College, London Occupational Therapy Abigail Brant Leeds Metropolitan University French Ka Chun Matthew Ng University of Birmingham Sports Coaching Kwan Yin Ho University of Nottingham Psychology Thomas Brant Rose Bruford College Pharmacy Wing Yue Pang University of East Anglia Stage Management Fenella Hobson Oxford Media and Pharmacy Melissa Brice University of West England, Business School Emily Peters University of Liverpool Bristol The Executive PA Diploma Marine Biology Adult Nursing Eleanor Holbrough Leeds Metropolitan University Thomas Philip Heriott Watt University William Burn University of Sheffield Childhood Studies Quantity Surveying Civil Engineering (2012) Robert Honeyman University of Staffordshire Barnaby Platt University of Central Lancashire Annabel Cawood University College, London Psychology Multimedia Development Law Christopher Iyer University of Newcastle Jiawei Victor Qu University of York Wai Chi Vincci Chan University of Bristol History Mathematics Economics Jason James University of Huddersfield Adam Richardson University of Sheffield Sin Man Angel Cheung University of Manchester Engineering Foundation Mechanical Engineering Economics and Finance Jessica James Gap Year Polly Robinson Leeds College of Art & Design Olivia Costoya Hall Queen Mary College, London Diploma in Art and Design French and Hispanic Studies Edward Jeffrey University of Swansea Classics Daniel Rogerson University of York Phoebe Cowley University of Manchester Physics Pharmacy Charles Jude Accountancy Apprenticeship Charlie Knapton University of Newcastle Tanya Rose University of Newcastle Hannah Crompton University of Leeds Medicine Geological Sciences Agriculture Joseph Knight University of Sheffield George Ryan University of East Anglia Ross Cronshaw University of York History Archaeology Medicine Benjamin Knowlson Leeds Metropolitan University Lucy Rymer Leeds College of Art & Design Hannah Dawson Bishop Burton College Diploma in Art and Design Policing and Community Studies Business and Management Julian Lawrence Leeds Metropolitan University Aimee Schofield University of Northumbria Abigail Dee Oxford Media and Applied Sport and Exercise Science Business School Event and Festival The Executive PA Diploma Management HND Jennifer Sedcole University of Nottingham Medicine Edward Falkingham Royal Agriculture College, Kwun Lok Alan Lee Nottingham Trent University Cirencester Environmental Science Joseph Shaw Hull College Agriculture and Pui Yan Priscilla Lee University of Bath Diploma in Art and Design Farm Management (2012) Mathematics and Statistics

First Class Honours Congratulations to the following OPs who have recently gained a 1st class honours: Harry Coates (1997-2008), BSc (Hons) Logistics, Sophie Featherby Aston(2001-2008), University BSc (Hons) Bio-medical Chemistry, Warwick University

Gemma Gray (1996-2006), BSc (Hons) Food Studies and Nutrition, Leeds University

Sam Holmes (1999-2006), BSc (Hons) Business Administration, University of Bath

Lara Pearce (2000-2008), BA (Hons) Theology University of Nottingham Do let us know if you recently graduated with a 1st class honours degree so that we can add your name to the Honours Boards in the Music School.

Harriet Slater University of Lincoln Hugh Stubbins University of Cambridge, Steffan Walters University of Kent Bioveterinary Science Jesus College Physics Thomas Stafford Leeds Metropolitan University History Charles Ward University of Hull Music Production Alexander Torkington University of Northampton Physics Lisa Stillie University of Glasgow Construction Management (2012) Thomas Waring Harper Adams University College English Literature Robin Towse Employment Agriculture Henry Stockley University of Sussex Thomas Turner University of Northumbria Benjamin Welch University of Cumbria Law with Politics Business with Finance Outdoor Leadership Claire Stowell University of Manchester Camilla Wade Manchester Metropolitan Mary Wilson University of Huddersfield Adult Nursing University Chemistry with Forensic Science Retail Marketing Management

him to meetings on some of his contaminated land calibre candidates to secure the job. He started his Spotlight on and brown field development deals and read all the contract at the end of March which meant leaving consultants’ reports. I attended conference calls and Leeds University a term early, with a dissertation still practised interview questions and learnt a lot. to complete. However, the opportunity to secure Careers With this work experience and help from Helen a contract was not one to be missed. The OPA is pleased to report that James has since managed OP Careers Network Success Stories Stephenson, an HR consultant, I was able to transform my CV and got an interview with URS. Because they to complete his degree, a BA (Hons) in Television The OP Careers Network has been busy helping had already met me and I had learnt so much by Production, gaining a 2i, whilst still making the most of OPs and 6th formers with job applications, CVs, work being in the office and practising interviews etc., I was this fabulous opportunity with Tidy Productions. placements, mentoring and advice. Read some of able to win in the interview process and get a full- the highlights below and if you want to help or be time permanent position on their graduate training involved, please get in touch with the OP Office. programme which is awesome as in this recession Guy Brumfield (2001-2008), pictured below, used they are like gold dust. I really cannot thank the OPA the OP Network to help him secure a place on enough for giving me the opening that I needed to the graduate training programme at URS, one of get my career up and running and my parents are the world’s leading engineering and environmental glad to get me out of the house! If any other OPs consultants. He writes: “I graduated from Durham or parents can help us on our way, please do offer University in summer 2011 with an Honours Degree your help. Just going into an office and seeing how it (L to R) David Peet, James Pratt, Alex Peet in Environmental Geosciences. Despite working really all works really helps us students – let alone actually Guy Harland (2007-2012) used the OP Careers hard for 6 months filling out job applications, phoning doing work that related to my chosen career. I still Network to get some engineering work experience lots of companies and sending out lots of CVs, I was had to win the place at interview but at least I could for his gap year. disappointed not to get offered a position and in show myself ahead of other candidates who had not “It seemed an almost impossible task to find good most cases not to even get a reply from lots of the had any experience. opportunities, especially as a Sixth Former heading companies. They also liked my team sports as they said that it out into a very large and hectic world. The OP showed hard work and commitment to training etc. Network, however, helped me every step of the way; So thank you to school and to the OPA and I will not only did they offer frank and thoughtful discussion definitely do the same for you in the future.” on which career was best for me, they also connected Readers may remember the story about James me to a number of OPs who worked in engineering. Pratt (2002-2009) finding a work placement in The OPs advised me through the application process the television industry through David Peet (1966- which resulted in an offer of two months’ paid work 1971) in last year’s magazine. Following on from this, experience with Babcock Engineering in Plymouth James recently secured a full 6-month contract with which is exactly what I was looking for. I have nothing Tidy Productions to work on the second series of but praise for the OP Network, and I hope others Stella, a ten-part series for Sky TV. The opportunity will take full advantage of the services it provides. My Then I heard about the OP Network and was for a contract came out of the blue and James went particular thanks to Jerry Caley (1961-1967) for his introduced to Tom Nash (1968-1977). I went with through a tough interview process against other high support and advice.”

The Old Pocklingtonian Spotlight on Careers Charlotte Scoops Young Advocates Hannah Spearheads New Equine Award for Newcastle University Practice at Shropshire Law Firm

Charlotte, left, collecting the trophy from the Rt Hon Jim Paice MP

OP Business Networking Lunches Regular business networking lunches are the newest addition to the OP calendar of events and are already proving to be very popular. Networking events can help OPs to make valuable contacts with like-minded people at different stages of their career and can open MFG Solicitors in Shropshire intend to increase the up real opportunities for employment and continuing firm’s equine legal expertise by appointing specialist professional development. They also provide an lawyer Hannah Farmer (1997-2004). Hannah has excellent forum for enhancing career prospects and joined the firm as an assistant solicitor, from Yorkshire solicitors Dickinson Dees. “The equine sector plays an learning more about a specific business sector and Charlotte Flint (1997-2008) and fellow Newcastle important economic role across the UK which means are particularly useful for undergraduates or recent University student, Aimee-Rose Sharp, won the ‘Young that the country’s breeders, owners and equestrian graduates looking to get their foot on the ladder or Advocates for Agriculture’ award in a keenly fought centres require the best possible legal advice. That’s needing advice from someone doing the job they debating competition held at the Farmers & Fletchers something MFG can now offer,” said Hannah. aspire to. Livery Hall in London in October 2011. Presenting At the moment, networking lunches have been the prizes, the Minister for Agriculture and Food, the Hannah aims to carve out a niche equine practice for held in London and Leeds once every six months. Rt Hon Jim Paice MP, expressed his admiration for all the firm. She will work alongside partners Sarah Baugh The London event is hosted by Duncan Goodyear the young agriculturalists taking part in the debates and Tom Devey within the firm’s rural and agricultural (1980-1985) at the Iron Duke Pub in Mayfair, whilst and encouraged them to continue their interest in division. Sarah Baugh commented: “We already have the Leeds event has been hosted by David Strachan current farming issues and the development of their an established rural affairs practice but Hannah’s (1967-1977) and Adam Hastie (1983-1988) at public speaking skills. appointment will strengthen the portfolio of services we offer rural clients. Building on our established Schofield Sweeny’s city centre offices. All guests are Charlotte and her team mate opposed the motion rural reputation, Hannah will be working hard to given a list of others attending with a brief synopsis “this house believes that global free trade is good for promote our equine expertise in livery agreements, about their career and a contact e-mail so they can British Farming” and made a forceful argument instead land acquisitions, bloodstock sales, disputes and many make the most of their time at the event and also for a global trading environment that acknowledged other areas.” keep in touch or follow up afterwards. At the Leeds the high standards and regulatory framework British event in May there was even a mini reunion of 1988 farmers adhere to. Their use of humour, rhetoric and leavers! carefully researched statistics won them the ‘Young Advocates for Agriculture’ trophy, a cash prize and a Jack Wins Student Volunteer day’s media training with the well-known broadcaster of the Year Award Tom Heap, a regular contributor to BBC’s Panorama and BBC Radio 4’s flagship series ‘Costing the Earth’. An audience of industry leaders, farmers and agricultural students was clearly entertained by the lively debates and speeches from the floor. Judges Simon Walters, the Political Editor of the Mail on Sunday, Richard Brooks, a Past Master of the

(L to R) Andrew Pettinger (1983-1988), Tim Munns (1983-1988), Worshipful Company of Farmers, and Angharad James Sweeting (1981-1988), Richard Cox (1983-1988), Steve Kirby Evans, a member of last year’s winning team, listened (1983-1988), Jonathan Hanley (1981-1988) and Adam Hastie (1983- carefully as motions focusing on the importance of 1988). wildlife and the relationship between British farmers If you would like to come to one of the networking and their customers were also debated. Speaking events, please contact the OP Office to find out on behalf of the judges, Simon Walters noted when the next one is taking place or check the both the oratory skills and the ability of the young forthcoming events on the OP web site. We hope agriculturalists to take on complex industry issues and to see you there. present persuasive arguments. Other competitors included representatives from Jack Burke (1998-2009) has just finished his History Aberystwyth University, the National Federation of degree at Manchester University and has been GROW THE NETWORK Young Farmers’ Clubs, the Royal Agricultural College, awarded the Student Volunteer of the Year in the the University of Reading and East Yorkshire’s Bishop Manchester Social Responsibility and Volunteer of the Over 250 OPs on the ‘Pocklington Burton College. Year Awards 2012 for his work with the homeless. He School Alumni’ group on LinkedIn has also got an internship working for the University Charlotte commented “It was a brilliant day and a running its ‘Student Action’ programme which involves fantastic experience. We were thrilled to win the a number of projects that students can volunteer to Find us, join us, use us award.” do to benefit the wider community.

Edwin’s Clipper Race Challenge Paul’s story:

Edwin Swarbrick (1955-1962) had an adventure of a for the Clipper Fleet’s navigating the Panama Canal On the Monday (May 7th) I picked Edwin up from lifetime, with a mini OP reunion along the way, when was such a coincidence and he made a big effort in the Flamenco Yacht Marina in Balboa (the Pacific he joined the longest yacht race in the world, the getting in touch, meeting me in Panama and giving entrance to the Panama Canal) and we drove over Clipper Round the World, in June. Edwin was a crew me a personalised and privileged tour of the city and the Bridge of the Americas, which all ships go under member aboard ‘Visit Finland’, one of 10 identical canal from the land side. It was great to see him and when they enter or leave the Panama Canal. From stripped out 68ft racing boats taking part in the catch up after all this time and I much appreciated his there we went to Pedro Miguel Locks to see the competition. He joined the race in San Francisco and kindness and generosity. beginning of the Galliard Cut, which is the narrowest sailed to New York City via the Panama Canal, where part of the canal, however heavy rain prevented the The only “tough” negatives were the incredible heat he met up with fellow Old Pocklingtonian, Paul Kay taking of photographs. both in the Pacific and Caribbean and at times the (1956-1960). relative lack of wind. It was constantly above 90 Next stop was Miraflores Locks (pictured above) degrees (F) below decks and for much of the time 100 which is the first set of locks that ships enter when degrees in the saloon and 110 in the galley. Sleeping in going northbound through the canal. Then on to those temperatures was difficult. It became very tiring Panama City, driving through the former U.S. Army on a rotating 4- or 6-hour watches. The frustration base previously known as Fort Clayton which used of being becalmed for a few days mid race was only to be HQ of U.S. Army South, but is now the site of relieved by the fire-hose showers and the amusement several colleges (some from overseas) and is called of being overtaken by turtles. City of Knowledge, although many people still call it Clayton.

Edwin’s story: Since I returned from Leg 7 of the Clipper Round the World Race in early June after an absence of 10 weeks I have been catching up and readjusting to life on shore. I have also been quietly reflecting on the We had lunch at a restaurant in Panama City voyage. It was a unique and extraordinary experience overlooking the Bay of Panama/Pacific Ocean, then which I thoroughly enjoyed. I was fortunate on my it was time to head back to the yacht ‘Visit Finland’. boat ‘Visit Finland’ in being with an amazing skipper Edwin gave me a tour inside the boat and conditions and great crew which engendered easy camaraderie on board were restricted with little or no privacy and team spirit; other crews seem to have been less for the crew. Much of the available space is shared fortunate in this. We were also in podium positions, with canned food and other stores for the voyage, 3rd and 2nd, after the two races on the leg, which as well as spare sails and no air conditioning! These helped! 50 years ago while waiting to go to medical school guys (both male and female) must really enjoy the and on the recommendation of Pitts-Tucker, the challenge of participating in the race! Apart from the pleasure in being at sea for 35 days then Headmaster, I arrived in NYC on the Queen and the frisson of racing, highlights included leaving It was great meeting with Edwin and, despite not Mary as an English Speaking Union Scholar for a year California from under the Golden Gate Bridge, having seen each other for 50+ years, many of the at an American Prep school; it changed my life in coming into Manhattan past the Statue of Liberty, memories of school were as fresh as ever! innumerable subtle ways. Arriving under sail this year passing through the Panama Canal and the incredible was a poignant reminder. It was for this reason I wished close encounters with Sperm, Finback and Sei Whales to try to raise some money for the John Dolman and 3-4 species of dolphin in large numbers. Foundation. Thanks to all those who have very kindly If you would like to contribute an Another highlight was my visit to Panama City and supported my efforts but I am still receiving donations article to the next OP magazine, meeting Paul Kay (OP 1960) who I haven’t seen since and it is easy to contribute directly to the charity by please contact Rachel in the OP we left Pocklington 50 years ago. His long-standing going to www.justgiving.com/edwinswarbrick. This Office darer@pocklingtonschool. involvement in being the shipping agent responsible site remains open. com. She would love to hear from you! The Old Pocklingtonian Bob Rows for Royalty

Bob Loveridge (1952-1958) was delighted to row 3-mile row from Barnes bridge to the mustering type wave due to the tannoys being ineffectual in the Cornish pilot gig ‘Trefusis’ recently as part of the point at Hammersmith. On then to raft-up before the wind! However, we were rewarded earlier as the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant. Millions of people Wandsworth bridge with an Isle of Man facsimile of Duke of Edinburgh waved back at Trefusis, and then braved the weather to line the banks of the River a Viking longship and the Helford gig Golden Gears there was Catherine’s dress... Thames to pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen ‘Leisurely Ladies’ (sorry guys, all ladies over 65!) The Gloriana’s rowers seemed tired as they slowed and to watch the 1,000-boat, 7-mile flotilla between awaiting the arrival of the professionally rowed and to 2.3 knots at Waterloo, not the regulation 4 knots Battersea and Tower Bridge. beautiful ‘Gloriana’ at 2.30pm. minimum or be towed away! This caused all the As well as ‘Trefusis’, nine other gigs took part, each The man-powered boats numbering over 270 were rowing to back-up behind the Gloriana creating being clinker built out of elm, 10 metres long, 1.5 headed by the tug Steven B pushing the barge hazardous stop/start rowing for us all. Not good in metres breadth with 6 rowers, a cox and a seat up Catherine B which was carrying the Jubilee bells. a 16-mile row. front for the pilot. Originally, pilot gigs were designed These we heard intermittently due to the bends in After the finish at Tower Bridge the heavens opened, to get the pilot out to the tea clippers first in order the river. but the rowers’ view looking back at the flotilla of to win the pilotage to harbour in the South-West. Trefusis pageant number 1704, was positioned in row man-powered boats was spectacular as the Tower At one time some gigs were built for eight rowers 9 nearest to the South Bank which gave us a close-up Bridge was raised in honour to Her Majesty as she and were used for carrying contraband from France. of 10 miles of a million or so people on balconies, passed through. We rowed to Millwall docks for an Later they were banned as they could easily outrun roofs, walkways, embankments, boats and bridges. It hour and then waited to take the gig out of the water. the Admiralty cutters. was an astonishing and amazing sight in witnessing the Happy but sodden! The pageant from the river level Bob writes: “Trefusis was transported the 270 miles cheering, the fun, singing and hilarity on Her Majesty’s was an amazing experience and to learn later our to Chiswick Rowing Club on the Friday, whilst its pageant day. Being a Cornish gig, we sang the Oggy Queen stood for the four hours of her pageant was crew of 5 ladies and 3 men arrived a day later. The Oggy song at all 11 bridges and wherever a St Piran quite amazing.” crew consisted of the cox, the Master in river speak, flag was seen (white cross on a black background). (Bob Loveridge, Flushing & Mylor Pilot Gig Club. OP 6 rowers and the Pilot, in this case a relief rower. The Royal salute, 270 boats’ oars raised in unison, was 52-58.) By 11am Sunday, with willing lifting help from the effective as its commencement became a Mexican- Australian surf boat rowers, we commenced the

Bob pictured third from left Development and School News Estates Development Plan of the building, to provide a department office, two A Little Piece of Pocklington classrooms and a storage room. Under Way in Hong Kong The school’s Estates Development Plan which Pocklington Headmaster Mark Ronan and his wife underpins the school’s Strategic Plan is under way Fiona hosted a special Pocklington School reception with a number of improvements and developments during their visit to Hong Kong in May. More than to the campus and its infrastructure already evident. 40 people attended the event, which was held on Here is a summary of the latest changes: a fourth-floor balcony at the YMCA in Kowloon, including current pupils and their families, OPs and Dolman Developments prospective parents. With the beautiful view of the central district as a backdrop, the Headmaster welcomed guests in Cantonese (following coaching from current pupils Forrest Cheung, Bosco Ng and Ray Tang!). He and Fiona thoroughly enjoyed their trip and found the city Lower School Pastoral Area energising, vibrant and welcoming. The reception had been a special highlight. He said: “It was a real privilege to meet the Hong Kong parents who were so proud of their children’s achievements. It was very uplifting to consider how these pupils travel more than 6,000 miles to come to Pocklington and the whole school is enriched as a result of this.” Amongst the OPs in attendance were Abbie Dixon (1993-1997), Tom Dolman boarding house is home during term time for Robson (2002-2003), Eric Ho (1990-1995), Jim Lau up to 19 boys. Recent refurbishment during summer (2004-2009), Alan Lee (2006-2008), Roger Leung 2011 has reorganised the living accommodation in (1990-1998) and Alan Yuen (1991-1993). the house, which dates back to the 1860s, into two wings – one for junior boys aged 8-13 (Dolman The OP Office is currently working with Eric Ho to Lower) and one for middle school boys aged 13-14+ establish a regular annual get-together of OPs in the (Dolman Upper). As part of the reorganisation a new Hong Kong and Southern China area. If you would entrance has been built which is used by both Upper Part of the old School House boarding house like to be involved or you would like to attend, please and Lower Dolman boys. Once inside the foyer, there accommodation has been transformed into a new contact Eric Ho (tel: 852-6198-2666, gferic@yahoo. are two doors, one which leads to the Upper Dolman Lower School pastoral area for the school’s 1st and com) or the OP Office (darer@pocklingtonschool. accommodation and another which leads to the 2nd year pupils. The area includes secure locker com). Lower Dolman accommodation. rooms complete with hand-carved wooden plaques above the doors with the name of each house, as New Classics Department well as a ‘chill out’ room for relaxing and socialising in break times. Coming up… Further developments that are currently being worked on are: a new Middle School pastoral area, a new cookery suite in the main school building, and the relocation of the Psychology department into the main school building. For further details about these projects and future plans, please refer to the Strategic Plan and do make an appointment to come back and visit the school The Classics Department has been relocated to sometime to see all the changes for yourself! Copies what was the former chapel near the Headmaster’s of the Strategic Plan are available by contacting the house. The chapel has been completely refurbished OP Office or via the school web site. and remodelled, whilst still retaining the character (L to R) Alan Yuen, Tom Robson, Abbie Dixon, Roger Leung

Biennial CCF Inspection and Flt Sgt Jake Galley, respective winners of the Cadet Team and the Young Adult competitions held at On May 17 2012, Old Pocklingtonian Lt Col Tom Otterburn in Northumberland in May 2012. He then Wagstaff from The Yorkshire Regiment visited spoke to the cadets and cadet NCOs commenting Pocklington School to carry out the Biennial Inspection on how he was immensely impressed by the range of the CCF. of activities, the enthusiasm, behaviour and rapport of the cadets and the leadership and knowledge of After inspecting the Guard of Honour, Tom took the NCOs. the salute as the Senior Cadets marched off. After lunch with the Headmaster, he was escorted around Wg Cdr Mike Evans, Officer Commanding, Pocklington the training activities by Cadet CSM John Micklem- School CCF, commented “Congratulations must go Cooper. The training programme involved a wide to the cadets and cadet NCOs whose magnificent selection of the activities that cadets experience contributions and enthusiastic and committed efforts during their time with the CCF. enabled the day to go so well and gave the Inspecting Officer such a good impression of themselves and of At the final parade, Lt Col Wagstaff presented the Pocklington School CCF. They can all be very proud.” Brigade First Aid trophies to Cadet Georgina Lloyd

The Old Pocklingtonian Development and School News Pocklingtonian Battlefields and friends of Pock and family members. An easy overnight ferry to Zeebrugge put us, ready to go, Tour 2012 within an hour by luxury coach of the front line. I have just returned from a 3-day tour to Ypres, Museums, memorials, original trenches and craters Passchendaele and the Somme led by Head of together with beautifully maintained graveyards set History Gareth Hughes and organised by Paul the scene. Gareth and Paul spoke about the history, Bennett, School Bursar. tactics and daily slaughter to great effect, giving us much to come to terms with over excellent suppers Their detailed knowledge, readings and poems, with and Belgian beer. a focus on Old Pocklingtonians, made for a very personal and emotional trip bringing some empathy Friends and family spent time together on personal and understanding for an individual’s horror in an journeys and new friendships were made. There are otherwise incomprehensible slaughter. A sea of many references in the Pocklingtonian during and 10,000 grave stones or 55,000 names of the lost after both world wars to OPs who fell – some almost in one place is somehow too much to take in, yet a straight from the classroom, batting crease, or rugby personal connection is almost too much to bear. pitch to the front line never to return. We heard the daily letters home of one family’s grandfather who A number of our party shared their own family survived the whole war in Flanders and all its horrors links with graves we visited and laid wreaths at the with some 14 recorded near misses, including taking Menin Gate in Ypres, including me, as President of a bullet full on his belt buckle – which they still have the OPA, and Christopher Oughtred, as Chairman at home. of the Governors, in a most moving ceremony. All traffic stops at 8pm and the Last Post is played by Thank you once again to Gareth for the commitment trumpeters from the local fire brigade – they have of taking annual school trips and for keeping the OP not missed a single night since 1928, except to carry memories and self-sacrifice alive in our pupils today on in England for the duration of the occupation and sending them home wiser and humbler. during the Second World War. I am grateful that it It was a most moving and worthwhile trip that I was possible for us to be part of such an occasion to commend to everyone. As we approach the centenary honour the school’s fallen. of the start of the war in 2014 there will be a great Gareth takes groups of current Pocklingtonians each impetus to go in the next few years. Should other year to learn about the First World War at first hand OPs and parents wish to follow in our footsteps in and I think he was unused to the problem of dealing future years please contact Paul Bennett at the school with wilful and unruly adults! We were a party of 30 to express interest. OPs, current and former parents, teachers, governors Tom Nash, OPA President

Quincentenary Celebrations 2014 may still seem a long way off but, in fact, by the time the next OP magazine lands on your doorstep it will already be the start of the school’s ‘Quincentenary Year of Celebration’. The Quincentenary will run during the academic year 2013/2014 with the actual anniversary of the foundation being on Saturday 24 May 2014. The school and the OP Association are planning a number of activities to celebrate the school’s 500 years including a special service at York Minster on the anniversary of the foundation and a party on the Summer Reunion weekend to include music and a firework display. As well as the Summer Reunion weekend, the OP Cambridge and London dinners will also be a little bit more exceptional than usual to give several opportunities for OPs to hold a special year group reunion to mark the school’s 500th birthday. More information and dates will be publicised in due course, but please make sure we have your current e-mail address so we can keep you informed of events quickly and easily. Also, please Headmaster’s Barbecue for Recent Leavers think about organising a reunion of your year group in 2014. Contact the OP Office if you need advice or In June, the Headmaster donned his apron and, OPs enjoyed catching up with each other and were assistance as we are here to help and look forward to armed with 180 sausages from Burton’s Butchers in on hand to offer advice about universities and course seeing as many OPs as possible in 2014. Pocklington, hosted a wonderful barbecue in his garden options to some of the school’s current pupils who to which OPs who left school in the last 5 years and will be busy with their UCAS applications in the current 5th and 6th form pupils were invited. Also in Michaelmas term. OPs in attendance included: Mimi attendance were members of the teaching staff and May, Josh Mowforth, Roseanna van Dijk, Felicity the OP committee. Delicious homemade desserts Pocklington, Joe Bevan, Lydia Rowland Greenstone, were provided by the Headmaster’s wife, Fiona, and Esther Ryan, Emma Newall, Daisy Brown, Ben Dawes, for once the weather stayed dry. Hugh Barlow, Dan Williams and Alexandra Dariescu. Follow Us @PocklingtonOPs From the Archives From the Magazine Archives was opened. The shooting team had a successful year beating several schools including Ampleforth, On our delve back into the past we look at what was St Peter’s and Wellington. A new gymnasium was in magazines 75, 50 and 25 years ago. opened and the Library moved into the old gym, with the chaplain Canon Duckworth placing the first book In 1936... in it. Dr Hale from Hull University spoke to the sixth The redoubtable Mason Clarke retired after 40 years form about computers, predicting that in the future as head of gymnastics. In his youth he was gymnastics we would all use them! champion of Great Britain. He retired to Leeds and

continued his links with the school. Following success In 1986/87... in London and on Broadway Edward Wooll’s ‘Libel’ D Watton joined the staff to teach Economics. The was the play. The Debating Society narrowly passed Design Centre won awards with two projects: the the motion to abolish fox hunting. Jack Daniel scored Motor Mileage team winning the Shell Technical 113 n.o. for the X1 against Woodhouse Grove. Award at Silverstone and some sixth formers produced a video commercial winning an award in In 1961... the Savlon national schools competition. Xavier Pick Head Boy James Ewan, running in 10.1 seconds, beat won first prize for his design of a calendar for the the 100 yards record set in the 1930s by Messrs Pedley National Trust. The senior drama production was and Slater. We believe this still stands. R C Hall and F Brecht’s ‘Threepenny Opera’ and the junior play E Maidment both won choral scholarships. M H Rose was ‘Jennings Abounding’ by Anthony Buckeridge. In played cricket for England Schools. He later gained athletics C Massey, A Jackson, C McLeod, S de Vries, M blues at Cambridge and played for Leicestershire. Dawson, N Hudson and I Clafton all became county A Year in the Archives A new tuck shop, exiting onto St Nicholas Court champions. What a productive year we have had in the Archives. Matthew Partis, Pocklington School Foundation’s Premises Manager, and his team have now completed their work, transforming a very unprepossessing girls’ changing room and shower area into a beautiful, light room. The flooring is solid oak, and the furniture will be an eclectic mix of antiques which are being bought as they come to auction. We have already amassed a selection of lovely chairs and a solid oak refectory table, as well as a stunning Persian rug. Curtains have been ordered. The aim is to offer a room with a very different feel to the rest of the school – somewhere akin to a Gentlemen’s Club room where visitors can come and study and read, but where students can also come to examine the archives and study. Many enquiries have come in this year, and the material we already have has been added to. It has been a real delight making contact with many OPs who are really getting excited about this resource. It is proving invaluable for research as we write our new school history for the Quincentenary. In addition to the Archive Room, the former male staff changing room (even more unprepossessing!) has been converted to provide a store room with the correct shelving, lighting and temperature to ensure that our papers and artefacts are safely kept. There is also a work table and preparation room attached, A G I Wood Visits the Archive from articles and photographs of Gerry’s school so that the public room can remain visitor-ready and sporting achievements copied from the school the day-to-day workings of the archive can be hidden Gerry Wood (1939-1949) came back to school magazines of the time, which was presented to Gerry away. recently thanks to 6th form pupils Robyn Tarrant, as a memento of his day. Ellie Herbert and Rachel Allison. The girls met Gerry Once we have had our official opening in November, in one of the local day centres they were visiting Overdue Library Book we will be very glad to make appointments for as part of the school’s weekly Community Action anyone wanting to come and have a look at the programme. As they got talking to Gerry they soon The Library was delighted to receive back an memorabilia we have managed to put together. discovered that he was also an Old Pocklingtonian. As overdue book this term. Sent in by former Head Boy, Please also remember that we are always on the Gerry had not been back to school in some time, the Ned Maclean (1997-2002), it was a book entitled lookout for more material, so if you come across girls arranged for him to come in for a look around. ‘Athletics’, taken out by his late father Nick (1957- anything, do ring me to see if it would be an addition On their tour the girls took Gerry to the new Archive 1966). It was due back on June 4th, 1965. Come on, to our collection. Room where School Archivist, Angie Edwards, had boys – beat that! team photographs on display from Gerry’s time at Angie Edwards, School Librarian and Archivist school. The girls also made a book containing extracts 01759 321200, [email protected]

10 The Old Pocklingtonian Down Memory Lane Photo Mysteries Revealed 1976 Mixed Hockey Team Thank you for your suggestions for the missing names Can anyone help fill in the missing names from the photo below, please? The names we have so far are: (L to R, in last year’s photo mysteries. Here are the answers: back row) unknown, David Lumley (73-78), Alistair Brumfield (71-78), unknown, Chris Smith (71-78), unknown, unknown, Phil Woodward (71-76), Richard Wolstenholme (71-77), (L to R, front row) Andy Smith (65-76), Sally 1st XV Rugby Team 1986-1987 Pilmoor (née Wilde, 75-77), Phil Lumley (67-76), Jane Millar (née Duggleby, 75-77), James Thornton (73-77). Back Row (L to R): 1. James Mundell (1986-88), Please send your answers to Joan Gough (née Sawyer, 75-77) in the OP [email protected] . 2. ‘Matt’ Mark Dawson (1983-88), 3. Johnny Trail Thank you. (1979-87) 4. Johnny Webster (1978-88), 5. Ronnie Alexander (1983-87), 6. Richard Pearson (1981-88), 7. Ralph Ineson (1983-88), 8. Christopher Haynes (1978-88), 9. Simon Williams? (1980-87), 10. Jimmy White (1980-88). Front Row (L to R): 1. Karl Baines (1985-87), 2. Simon Clarke (1980-87), 3. Phil Balderson (1982-87: Head Boy), 4. Ian Clafton (1980-87), 5. ‘Sid’ Richard Briggs (1981-89). Mystery Rugby Team 1982-1983 Back Row (L to R): 1. ‘Chalky’ White (1974-83), 2. Andrew Draper (1979-83), 3. Jonathan Robinson (1978-83), 4. Duncan McKay (1978-85), 5. Jonathan Bilton (1978-83), 6. Miles Picknett (1977-84), 7. Richard Castleton (1978-83) 8. Andrew Wardle (1976-84), 9. Fraser Todd (1973-83), 10. Andrew Soanes (1976-83), 11. Thomas Wagstaff (1977-84). Staff Photo Front Row (L to R): 1. David Ellinor (1977-84), 2. William (Wes) Slade (1973-83), 3. Mark Humphreys- The following staff photo was taken in the 1980s when Tony Pickering was Headmaster. Can you remember Evans (1976-84), 4. Andrew Wells (1973-83), 5. some of your old teachers? Simon Welford (1976-83), 6. Andrew Mair (1978- 84), 7. Richard Henderson (1980-83), 8. Matthew Whitworth (1978-83), 9. John Mansfield (1979-85). There is a split opinion as to whether this is the 1st or 2nd XV and Miles Picknett (1977-84) thinks the photo was taken in the Lent Term 1983 after the Oxbridge players had left school. Lost Boys and Girls The OP Office would very much like to get back in touch with the following OPs. If you know of their whereabouts, please encourage them to get in contact so the database can be updated. Patrick Briggs (1951-1959) John R B Bullock (1962-1967) Sarah Christie (née Mcday, 1982-1984) Robin Gladman (1947-1954) Hunt for the Oldest OP Update Mexico Marksman Joanna Hainsworth (1989-1996) Further to the note in last year’s magazine about the OP Eric Grantham (1925-1928) won a silver medal Richard A Harrison (1967-1972) oldest OP, we have had many interesting conversations at the 1968 Mexico Olympics in clay pigeon shooting. Nicholas Lloyd (1950-1955) with OPs in their nineties. Another veteran who can Eric, who hailed from Skidby where he and the family David Reed (1972-1982) lay claim to be our oldest OP is Arthur Glanfield. farmed, died in 1984. Wing Tam (1990-1995) From Stockton on Tees, Arthur boarded here from 1927 to 1932 and was therefore a contemporary Ian Tate (1977-1979) of Richard Annand. He now lives in West Wickham, Richard Taylor (1952-1960) Kent and will be 97 later this year. Ronald Heselwood was from Northallerton and he and his two brothers Ice Hockey at Pocklington boarded in the mid 1930s. Latterly, Ronald worked in London and the South-East and, like Arthur above, Pocklington resident, Ken Durkin, came across an settled in Kent. Christopher Mossop was also one of old newspaper article from February 1895 which he three brothers here in the thirties. Their father was sent to Tony Spreckley (57-64) reporting on a match an export manager and in 1938 Christopher went between ‘Grammar’ and ‘Town’ on Kilnwick pond. to Ceylon to be a tea planter, returning to join the The ice was in good condition and the weather was army until 1946. He then went back to Ceylon until superb with the match played at a flowing pace. Final retirement beckoned and has lived in Ilminster in score: Town 9 goals, School 7! Somerset ever since.

11 that I made my first contact with the music of Benjamin Britten (including the Serenade for tenor, horns and strings and the Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes) – a composer I came to love and indeed know professionally. If neither of the Headmasters in my time, P C Sands and R St John Pitts Tucker, seemed noticeably enthusiastic or knowledgeable about music, they were none the less encouraging and valued music as part of our cultural development. Pitts Tucker made his baby grand piano available to me for practice, there were occasional visits from distinguished musicians to be enjoyed in his drawing room (Raymond Cohen – then serving in the RAF – playing Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, for example) and there were by no means infrequent recitals in the Assembly Hall after the school acquired its first grand piano. An official school Music Society under the presidency of Jim Eggleshaw was formed in 1946 and did much to foster the presentation and discussion of classical music, with frequent trips to concerts in York and other local centres visited by professional orchestras. In addition to the steady post-war growth of music appreciation at the school we had a talented variety Music at Pocklington 1941-1948 service.) This blower – visible through a chink in the act by two boys – Campbell and Latham – who had – A Personal Memoir wall – would not infrequently be caught out asleep at something of a George Formby touch with voice the end of the sermon and this led to frantic signals and ukelele in school shows. Their laid-back style was To judge from the pages of The Pocklingtonian it on a pulley from Miss Ottley. She would put her hands hugely popular, while Latham was no mean hand at would seem that now as never before the budding on the first chord of the hymn which would slide up the blues on piano. Classical jazz was the province musician has every opportunity to develop skills and to pitch as the blower pumped air into the organ. Miss of J E Jourdain who could be very dismissive of any enthusiasm. During the war it was otherwise and as Ottley had a style of extemporisation which would classical enthusiasms. Choral music was beginning to an OP who went on to make for himself a satisfying always end up with the same phrase – a mannerism get off the ground, and John Long brought us together and varied career in music (in teaching, performing, which some of us unkindly would join in sotto voce for my final Commem service (Stanford in B flat) BBC and musicology) I would like to set down some with knowing smiles. in 1948. There was, too, an annual prize for music memories of a musical boy at Pocklington from 1941- After reaching Grade 6 piano with Miss Ottley in donated by Hymers College and I still cherish my 1948. 1945, I was sent to York for an interview with the copy of the Oxford Companion to Music, awarded in 1943 at the age of 13! The Very Rev. Robert Holtby, The school in 1941 possessed two pianos – uprights legendary Sir Edward Bairstow and was accepted as a pupil, but sadly lost the opportunity through his death Dean of Chichester as he was to become, was then of no special quality – one in the dining room at School serving as a humble curate in Pocklington (1946- House and one in what was then the Assembly Hall. in May 1946. With the war now over I was able to continue studies with our new music teacher, John 1948) and provided further help with our choral The former served as the instrument upon which efforts in association with Mr Long. There were trips our visiting piano teacher, Miss Florence Ottley, gave Long, organist at Beverley Minster, now demobilised from the RAF. He took me through the remaining to York Minster too, where Francis Jackson, successor her lessons, but also as the practice instrument for to Sir Edward Bairstow (and still going strong today as her pupils and the instrument for the evening hymn grades and coached me at Beverley Minster for organ scholarships at Cambridge. John would arrive at the a recitalist at the age of 94!), provided us with our first at prayers for School House taken by Headmaster experience of Bach’s Cantata ‘Wachet Auf’. If music Percy Sands. Piano practice ‘slots’ were allocated and I school sporting a blue spotted bow tie in a dashing open-top MG, his style much admired. was very much an ‘extra curriculum’ subject in those remember having to do my practice before breakfast days, I nevertheless owe the beginnings of a life in while Percy Sands attended to his morning mail at Piano and organ lessons apart, there was a music to Pocklington. High Table. (What he thought of my efforts at the housemaster – excellent pianist and musician that Nutcracker Suite or the 1812 Overture I never he was – whose brief stay at the school from 1944- By Eric Roseberry (1941-1948), written before his dared to ask!) The Assembly Hall piano was used 1945 did much for music. Apart from playing the death in February 2012. for class singing (under Tom Pay) with the younger piano before and after prayers in the Assembly Hall boys, morning and Sunday assembly (again with Tom he had an excellent collection of records (including, I Pay playing the hymns) and, of course, for such stage recall, the complete organ works of Bach played by productions and entertainments as required a piano. Albert Schweitzer), and to him I owed my adolescent A new boy in 1941 may have made his first passion for Beethoven and his symphonies as well as acquaintance with live music through hearing a Chopin getting to know many other standard classical works. Waltz or even Sinding’s ‘Rustle of Spring’ – regarded Aubrey Russ – who went on to teach at Kelly College Reunions and as the height of achievement by Florence Ottley’s in Devon – was something of a bon viveur and his senior pupils. ‘Fanny’ Ottley, as she was affectionately rooms exuded a rich aroma of pipe and cigar smoke named, was a conscientious and devoted teacher. She – to say nothing of steaming alcoholic beverages. calendar of was also the church organist, playing in cap and gown Another serious, deeply cultured housemaster was on an organ that still depended on the services of a (Major) Jim Eggleshaw, back from army service in paid blower stationed in a recess next door to what 1946. Memorable Sunday evenings were spent in events - p19 then served as the prefects’ chapel at the north-east his comfortable bachelor rooms at Dolman House corner of the church. (The prefects used to make a where a specially invited group of sixth formers would special processional entrance at the Sunday morning be regaled with sherry and/or coffee, readings from Dante, and records. It was thanks to Jim Eggleshaw

12 The Old Pocklingtonian OP Sport Pocklington Pixies CC on Tour ever score. But, at 109-7, the Pixies were wobbling, Steve Burdett (49 not out) and Matthew Atkinson Summer 2011 (44 not out) then blasted their runs off 28 and 29 Probably the most unremarkable statistic of the balls respectively, allowing skipper Joe Moore to Pocklington Pixies’ 56th annual tour was the fact that declare at 202-7. they were able to play five full fixtures (and it should The hosts were never really in the hunt after meagre have been six had Eastbourne not called the game off spells from Matthew Stacey (2-25) and Burdett (2-5), too early), when the weather back home might have but looked like hanging on for a draw until Atkinson allowed only one day’s play. (2-9) and John Burrans (2-17) struck vital blows, and a At Holmesdale on Sunday, the hosts stuttered to 156 match-winning catch by the skipper at forward short all out, with David Suddaby (3-10), Joel Hughes (2-24) leg clinched the win in the final over. and John Micklem-Cooper (2-32) causing problems. In Thursday’s game at Hastings also went to the final 2011 Pixies Win Pocklington’s reply, Charles Lambert (89) played his best innings for over and was a close encounter. The hosts reached the Pixies and, with long-serving tourist Phil Balderson 217-6 off their 40 overs, with the Suddaby brothers Worsley Cup but Fall Short (22 not out), saw the side to victory. taking two wickets apiece. Again, a good start by at Derwent On Tuesday, at Haywards Heath, it was a similar story. Picknett (58) and Moore (27) put the Pixies in charge The hosts struggled to 154, with David Suddaby (4- until a minor collapse caused concerns. Burdett (36) The 24th year of Worsley Cup action between 24) again to the fore, backed up by brother Chris and Atkinson (36) rallied, but both were out in sight Pocklington Cricket Club and the Pocklington Pixies (2-2) and tour debutant Marcus Smith (2-30). Steve of victory. With seven needed off the last over, Chris started with a few moments of silence being observed Burdett, also on debut, led the reply with 45, Henry Suddaby found the boundary fielder who turned a for Oliver Worsley, the ex-President of Pocklington six into an excellent catch, leaving the Pixies all out, CC, who donated the trophy and who sadly died, six short of the target. after a long illness, during the close season. In the final game at Ashford, tiredness was creeping Pocklington batted first and the chief contributors in and the Pixies’ total of 140 was never going to be were Howard Johnson (70), Jamie Kember (31) and enough. Atkinson (33), Smith (29) and David Suddaby Mark Goddard (31), all helping the home side to a (22) all battled hard. The hosts looked comfortable at respectable 224 all out, off all but two balls of their 120-3, but two quick wickets apiece for Burdett and allotted 45 overs. For the Pixies, A J Clarke and Joel Moorhouse revitalised the Pixies and made Ashford Hughes each took three wickets and John Micklem- work hard for their victory. Cooper, on debut, had two victims. A regular fall of wickets, backed up by excellent fielding, particularly Andrew Inns had a couple of games and gets nearer from James Hanley (also on debut), kept the score to the record for the highest number of appearances, an attainable target. and Iain Gladstone must be thanked for dashing down to Haywards Heath when three late call-offs nearly However, at 23-2, the Pixies were not in as confident caused embarrassment early on in the week. Also, a mood. Then Joel Hughes with 112 not out (only thanks go to Graham Thurlow for all his umpiring the fourth century in the 24 years) and Matthew duties, except on the day he was badly stung by a Atkinson (44) saw the Pixies home with four overs Mitchell (33) batted confidently and skipper Hughes wasp! to spare. (26 not out) saw the tourists to a comfortable three- As ever, please contact Malcolm Milne on 01759 wicket victory. Ex-Pocklington CC skipper, Dave Tinson, presented 303456 or [email protected] if you would the trophy to the Pixies skipper, Andrew Inns, and At Marden the next day it was the Pixies’ turn to bat like further information about playing or helping out both thanked the organisers and officials for all their first. Miles Picknett (31) got the side off to a steady with the Pixies. efforts during the day. This third successive victory for start and Iain Moorhouse (23) reached his highest the Pixies brought their total to 15 wins against seven for the Town (with two no results). 2nd XI: Will Axup (1999-2010), Hugh Barlow (2003- The Men of Derwent reached 216 in their 40 overs Rain Stops Play at OP Cricket 2010), Sam Chidley (2000-2009), Ben Dawes (2001- thanks mainly to a run a minute, 90 from Chris Bilton It could be the first time on record that the annual OP 2010), Luke Hirst (1982-1992), James Lewis (2002- (Alisdair Swann’s grandson). Even with a strong cricket match against the school has been called off 2009), Bob Marsden (1952-1963), Peter Massie batting line-up, Pixies fell 26 short. David (40) and (please let us know if you know of another occasion), (2000-2010), Dan Peel (1983-1993), David Phelan Chris (35) Suddaby top scored and young James but the heavy rain in May and June played havoc with (1998-2009), Nick Pierson (1974-1982), Richard Hanley (Yorkshire Under 14s) played well enough to many of the school’s summer sports fixtures and OP Pope (1991-1993), John Skinner (1975-1982), help ensure a healthy future for the club. cricket was no exception. Heavy rain during the few Charlie Smith (1998-2009), James Wilkinson (1999- Thanks to so many for their support on and off the days prior to OP Sunday left standing water on the 2010), Alistair Wood (1985-1992). field and hopefully 2012 will be more of the same! cricket square so the matches had to be cancelled, which was a real shame especially as we had a high Many players still came along for lunch in the dining number of OPs wanting to play this year. Those who hall so a good time was had by all in the end. Thanks were signed up to play were as follows: go to staff members David Byas and Mike Newhouse for their support with OP cricket, as well as David 1st XI: Dan Atkinson (2004-2011), Jack Bolam (1995- Nuttall (former staff) and Tom Axup (1996-2007) 2005), Isaac Green (2009-2011), Andrew Inns (1983- who had kindly agreed to umpire this year. 1990), Adam Iyer (1996-2006), Charlie Lambert (2001-2008), Henry Mitchell (1991-2002), Sandy We are hopeful that the British summers will improve Mitchell (1989-2000), Roger Moorhouse (2006- in future years so that the cricket may go ahead 2010), Richard Readman (1997-2005), Charles Rook as usual. The date for next year’s fixture for those (1987-1997). interested in playing for the Old Pocklingtonians is Sunday 23 June 2013.

13 floundered on OP tenacity as the Old Boys turned the ball over and hoofed it long downfield where the home side transgressed and Rook kicked his third penalty. Pocklington were shaken and stirred into action. They looked to be finally stamping their authority on the game as Allen again shimmied up the middle to within five yards. Pocklington pounded at the OP line with Dan Wilson, Mark Stringer, Marcus Britland and Durkin all held on the line, before it was finally breached as prop Chris Morton plunged over on the short side. At 17-9 ahead, and some of the Old Boys’ older boys starting to blow, Pocklington were expected to close the game out. But the home side gave away a spate of penalties and lost momentum as the OPs responded with their best spell of the afternoon. A rare period of OP pressure saw them miss a penalty Boxing Day Rugby Victory attacking platform, with the OPs needing to live off kick, drop the ball in a good position and had Paul scraps up front, but having the pace out wide and Rhodes go hard for the line only to be smashed back for OPs midfield aggression of Rosslyn Park veteran, Andy Ray, by powerful home tackling. But the OPs held the Pocklington 17 – Old Pocklingtonians 22 to trouble the home side on the counter attack. position, ran the ball right from a scrum and centre Ed Rook’s one-handed pass back inside found another Town finally made the break-through on the quarter Old Pocklingtonians claimed a rare Bottomley Trophy Newcastle student in back row Richard Skowronek hour as they won the ball on the OP 22 and it was success over Pocklington in a Boxing Day game of who flung himself under the posts at the Oval end, moved smartly left for wing Billy Hardy to shrug off a fluctuating fortunes at Percy Road. Pocklington scored Rook converting to put the game back in the melting couple of tackles and power over in the corner. But three tries to one, and made openings for a good pot at 17-16. few more. But the Old Boys doggedly stayed in touch, they failed to secure the restart and straightaway took their goal-kicking chances and made the most another scrum against the head produced a carbon The initiative was now with the OPs and they of a late attacking burst to lift the trophy for the first copy penalty from Rook to make it 5-6. produced an unexpected pack drive from the kick-off to take them back into Pock territory where Rook time since 2004. The Town continued to conjure up promising breaks, was on target with another penalty to put his side the OPs replying with dogged defence. Young Old Having been frozen off for the past two years, the back in front. The pattern continued with OPs making Boy forwards James Wilkinson and Dan Gowthorpe 2011 ‘Town v Gown’ encounter got underway with the most of their more limited opportunities, Rook’s gave them brief respite with some determined drives the ground bathed in sunshine in front of a big festive fifth penalty success of the day from long range giving out of defence. But Pocklington looked to be turning season crowd. Both sides fielded a mix of youth them breathing space and a five point lead. and experience – the youth in the form of a dozen the screw and after 25 minutes centre Jake Bishop cut teenagers, and the experience from a clutch of stars back inside, the forwards took the play on and scrum Pocklington still had the firepower to snatch it back of yesteryear, some whose heydays were back in the half Mike Davies burst to the line from 15 yards, home in the dying minutes but wasted ball with optimistic 80s and 90s. full-back Tim Bennett converting. kicks. Ben Stephenson and Allen sparked two more last gasp attacks up the middle only for the Town’s The OPs briefly threatened as forwards and backs The OPs looked the more makeshift outfit as they frustrating day to persist as the ball went to ground combined with a bout of offloads from their own ran out, but they were the first to show and after just as play was opening up. Newcastle University hooker Charles Thompson had half, before Pocklington replied with another incisive stolen a scrum against the head, scrum half Charlie attack, only for the finishing to not match the quality The Old Boys dragged themselves to the final whistle, Rook, a doyen of many Boxing Day battles, gave of the approach play. They remained camped in OP slowing things down and kicking to touch at every the old boys the lead with a fourth-minute penalty. territory, but the Old Boys held out to the interval opportunity to hold out and celebrate a surprise Pocklington were stung into response, skipper Mat at 12-6. win. Webber (one of many OPs in the Town side) and No Pocklington started the second half into the breeze Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Old 8 Karl Durkin led a pack drive and Charlie Allen made and sun but again looked the likelier side. Prop John- Pocklingtonian Association, festivities continued in the first of several slashing breaks from fullback, only Paul Kelly was twice involved in a 40 yard surge down the clubhouse afterwards, where Pocklington RUFC for the ball to go to ground with the line begging. the right that took them up to within spitting distance President, Tim Slater, also presented the Bottomley The Town pack took control to give them a strong of the OP line. However, once again their enterprise Trophy to OP skipper Paul Rhodes.

OPs at Pock 7s through to the semi-finals of the plate competition where they were defeated by eventual plate winners, The Old Pocklingtonians took part in the annual Scunthorpe Fallen Heroes. Guinness Pock 7s Tournament on Good Friday looking smart in their new rugby shirts. The OP President, The team was (L to R, back row): Sami Eggleston Tom Nash (1968-1977), commented: “Really pleased (1999-2007), Andy Pearce (1998-2009), James with the quality and design of the Old Pocklingtonian Watkins (1998-2009), Josh Papa ( 1996-2003), Fergus shirts. The OP team really looked the business and Purtill (1994-2003), James Tyson (2001-2009), (L to the shirts withstood some tough rugby.” R, front row): Tom Hardy (2001-2009), Dave Hill (1990-1997), Sean Houltham (i/c rugby), Joe Butcher Captain, Sean Houltham, Director of Rugby at (1994-2006), Ryan Duncan (1999-2007). Pocklington School, led the team of old boys right

14 The Old Pocklingtonian OP Sport England Cap for Rob try scorer in 1933. After going to university he played teammate of Bell’s in the North East’s win against on the wing for English Universities for three seasons, Australia, played for England Universities and had a 1932-34, and he became a dual international when final England trial in 1966. He was expected to go he also ran for the UAU athletics team against France. all the way to international honours, but an injury After playing county rugby for four different counties coincided with him concentrating on his Pocklington and representing the RAF he was tipped for further business interests and saw him retire from top class honours but the war intervened. He was a pilot in rugby while still in his mid 20s. WW2 and won the Distinguished Flying Cross. Pietro Nigel Castleton was another Pocklington School Giovetti, scrum half for the XV in the early 1930s, captain (his side enjoyed an unbeaten season in 1979) went on from school to play nearly a dozen times who grew up at the Blue Bell pub in East Cottingwith. for Yorkshire. Contemporaries remember him as He represented his country at six different levels at the best player they had seen and he was attracting No 8 and also the Army and Combined Services, and much national attention in the seasons approaching was close to a call-up for the full England side when the war. Born in Portuguese East Africa, his father was he was tragically killed in a car crash at the age of 22 an Italian Count who had left Italy when Mussolini in 1985. The Daily Telegraph led a fulsome tribute to came to power and his mother was English which this lost talent. is why he and his brother were sent to Pocklington. Sadly, he was the rear gunner of an RAF bomber More recently two more Pocklington old boys have that crashed in Lincolnshire returning from a mission, just missed out on international caps with the land killing all the crew. Gerry Wood, a Commonwealth of their fathers. Diccon Edwards, now head coach record-breaking shot-putter as a schoolboy, went of Leeds Carnegie and a former England Under 20 straight into the Yorkshire senior side at the age coach, also played for England at six junior levels at of 18 as a centre and played for them for many centre and winning premiership medals with Leicester seasons. He also played numerous matches for the before being persuaded to switch allegiance to his Army and later for the Combined Services – the family country of origin, Wales, by the then Welsh zenith of his career being a match against the full coach in 1994. He was immediately picked for Wales Ireland international side for the Combined Services. ‘A’, but then the coach was sacked and he got no Rob Webber (1994-2004) might have had to wait a further. There was some consolation when he had couple of weeks to get his England cap against Italy a brief sojourn in rugby league and was capped by in Rome after being an unused replacement the first Wales in the 13-a-side code in 1996. time he had been selected for the England match day line-up. But for Pocklington School, where Webber Jon Stuart, from Everingham, like Edwards played in had captained the 1st XV in his final year, the wait a Leicester Tigers side that won the Premiership. He for an old boy to gain an international cap has been was from a long established Scottish family, played for considerably longer. Scotland ‘A’ and was on standby for the full Scotland squad that toured South Africa in 1999. However, The school first adopted rugby as its main winter ‘Grannygate’, prompted by a number of New Zealand sport in 1879, but the school’s small number of players who covered up their family background to boys (it often had less than 50 pupils in the late 19th be able to play for Wales, then broke. Thereafter century) saw it switch to soccer in 1884 and only play Judkins pictured centre of the back row qualification credentials were much more closely occasional rugby matches for the rest of the century. examined, and to Jon’s horror he found that while David Bell, from Melbourne, was perhaps the most After 27 years of soccer the return to the rugby code his great grandfather was born and bred in Scotland, unlucky OP. After being a scrum half at school he was came in 1911 when the headmaster was G H Keeton, his grandfather had been born south of the border promptly switched to fullback by Pocklington RUFC himself a former England rugby international. In the before returning home. It meant Jon had to qualify by as they had a regular scrum half but no real candidate same year, Ampleforth and Hymers also switched residence, and by the time he had played in Scotland for the No 15 shirt. He played for Hampshire and back to rugby. From that date onwards the school for the required three-year period, his chance had the Combined Service during his national service, had has produced many outstanding rugby players and passed. He is now a rugby players’ agent for Top two final England trials and was a travelling reserve for several have got within touching distance of a cap, but Marque Sports. England on several occasions. In those days there were none had made the final step up to full international no replacements from the bench and the established Pocklington School greeted Rob Webber’s honours until Webber took the field against Italy in England fullback never got injured, so though he was in achievement with considerable delight and pride. But Rome. the squad for many years he never made the final XV. after so many near misses over so many years the While the school produced an England Test cricketer He was described at the time by the Daily Telegraph school must also have let out a significant sigh of relief in T F Smailes back in 1946, though his England debut as “the best fullback never to play for England”. He that one of their own had finally made it. was delayed by WW2, the school’s rugby history is played 39 times for Yorkshire, captaining them to the Report by Phil Gilbank (1967-1974). littered by near misses and ill fortune thwarting a County Championship in 1965, and he also captained number of old boys going on to get an international North East Counties to victory over Australia. cap until now. William Judkins played soccer for Patrick Briggs was another who must be regarded Pocklington School in the early 1890s and was as desperately unlucky not to have been capped. A introduced to rugby by the Pocklington town club. double Cambridge Blue, he had four final England trials After leaving Pocklington he made three winning test at fly-half, played for the Barbarians and represented appearances for the British Lions against Australia in East Midlands many times, captaining them against the Keep in touch! 1899, and in all played as a forward for the Lions in 1969 South African tourists. A doyen of the Bedford 13 of their 21 matches on the tour. Bizarrely, though club, then one of England’s leading sides, he was skipper Join the ‘Old Pocklingtonian representing the British Isles, he never played for in 1970 when they won the England and Wales Table England. Don Craven, whose father was the long Association’ group on Facebook. (the forerunner of the leagues). He retired through serving headmaster of Pocklington Junior School in www.facebook.com injury and coached Bedford to the national cup final Kirkland Street, played for Yorkshire Schools against in 1975 and later coached and managed the England Wales in 1929, and was Pocklington RUFCs leading U.23 team. Another OP, Gordon Garside, was a

15 OP Helps Federer to Wimbledon Success

Kyle Edmund (2002-2006), a 17-year-old former pupil of Pocklington School, played a small part in Roger Federer’s recent Wimbledon title success. The Yorkshire-based British Boys’ number three was called upon to practise with Federer as part of his match preparation in the run up to the semi-final stages of the tournament. Fans clamoured to get a glimpse of the Swiss star on the practice court but few knew the name of the player hitting from the OP Hockey 2012 Georgina Chapman (1996-2006), Sarah Denness other side of the net. (1999-2006), Laura Horne (2001-2008), Jenny According to a report in the Evening Standard, Another successful morning of hockey took place Owen (1997-2008), Charlotte Flint (1997-2008), Kyle, who is tipped as one of Britain’s biggest future at school on Sunday 18 March 2012 when the OP Sophie Guest (2003-2010), (L to R, front row): Lydia Wimbledon hopes, admitted he was nervous when teams, both sporting the new kit in OP colours, took Edwards (1999-2010), Becky Sedcole (2003-2010). he looked over the net and saw Federer. “Roger is on the school 1st XI teams. The OP men’s XI lost arguably the greatest player ever. It is a great feeling 6-1 with Callum Doyle (2001-2008) scoring the only OP Men’s XI (L to R, back row): Mike West (2001- to be on court with him. But you don’t want to mess goal for the OPs. The ladies’ match was another hard 2008), Mark Robson (1993-2000), Callum Doyle up. My friends keep asking how it happens that I get fought battle with some strong ex-1st team players (2001-2008), school goalkeeper, George Pollard to play with him. I have played with him three times at coming back to play for the OPs. The final score was (2003-2010), Steffan Walters (2004-2011), Chris Wimbledon as his coach knows my coach.” Kyle, who a 1-1 draw with Sarah Denness (1999-2006) scoring Iyer (2000-2011), Barnaby Platt (2002-2011), (L to was born in South Africa and came to the UK with his for the Old Pocklingtonians. R, front row): Simon Hornby (2001-2006), Andrew Welton (1996-2006), Richard Readman (1997- family aged three, now trains at the National Tennis The teams were as follows: 2005). Also played but not in photo, Will Simpson Centre in Roehampton. Watch out for his name in (1998-2006). the next few years to come. OP Ladies’ XI (L to R, back row): Miranda Bond (2004-2011), Olivia Byas (1999-2008), Rachel Thanks go to staff Peter Horne, Sarah Metcalfe, David Kendall (1999-2010), Jess Blake (2003-2010), Katie Byas and the Headmaster, Mark Ronan, for their OP Tennis Dodges the Rain Atkinson (1999-2010), Fran Rikatson (1999-2010), support with the event and their excellent umpiring. Despite the cricket being called off, the weather didn’t stop the OP tennis matches from going ahead at the annual Summer Reunion in June. Six men and two ladies returned to play for the OPs against the school. Thankfully the rain held off, but a gusty wind made conditions difficult. The match consisted of one set of ladies’ doubles, four sets of mixed doubles and seven sets of men’s doubles. There were many close sets, including three which ended on tie-breaks, so it was perhaps justice that the overall match score was a 6-6 draw! Players (L to R): Ed Sweeting (1984-1991), Ben Dawes (2001-2010), Peter Smedley (1977-1982), Rachel Clark (née Sweeting, 1991-1996), Charlotte Flint (1997-2008), Louis Los (1999-2010), Stuart Pearce (1999-2010), James Sweeting (1981-1988). Thanks go to staff Trevor Loten (1970-1980) and Rachel Spencer for their support with the event and for organising the teams on the day.

16 The Old Pocklingtonian OP Sport Annual Golf Day Launched 2012: Aiden Beattie, Darren Beattie, Anita Beattie, Jay Derek The inaugural Pocklingtonian Golf Day took place on Thursday 17 May 2012 at The Oaks Golf Club in 2nd Prize: Bob Kerr, James Kerr, Oliver Smith, Frazer Aughton, near Bubwith. As well as Old Pocklingtonians, Davis current and former parents, friends, staff and current 3rd Prize: James Sweeting, Alaster Siddle, Jeffrey pupils were also invited. In all 15 teams of 4 players Michael Kidd, Nigel Bean took part in what was a fantastic day of golf followed by a meal and prize presentations in the club house. There were also individual prizes for the longest drive OP Drew Southcott (1989-1998) commented: (Darren Beattie), nearest the pin (Mark Addison) and “Many thanks for yesterday; a great day was had by all. nearest the pin in 2 (Alaster Siddle). The club facilities and catering were excellent. Please More photos from the event can be found on the keep us in the loop for the next one; we’d be mad OP web site www.oldpocklingtonians.com under keen to participate.” ‘past events’. The OPA would like to build on this The winning teams were as follows: success at the next Pocklingtonian Golf Day to be held on Thursday 16 May 2013 for those interested 1st Prize and The Tom Nash President’s Cup Winners in entering a team. All are welcome!

School Senior Athletic Records 1965 M F Coates equalled the 200 yards time. Putting the weight 12 lbs (Shotput) - A M R Burgin 56 ft 1.5 ins 1960 With the Quincentenary close upon us, we Half Mile - R B Cross 1-56.3 1964/65. In 1965 P E thought it would be interesting to look at school Owen also ran under 2 mins, achieving 1.59.2 Discus - H C May 156 ft 6 ins 142 ft 10 ins 1965 athletics records. Sadly, the official list seems to have Mile - R B Cross 4min 13 secs 1964/65 Some of these records, even today, are quite disappeared. So, in an attempt to re-establish what spectacular achievements for 18-year-olds, especially 120 yd Hurdles - A G Child 15.3 secs 1956 they are, we have been through the magazines and the cricket ball and putting the weight. unearthed the following. You will see the records are High Jump - R Buckton 6 foot 1963/64 all of very long standing and this is either because Steve Spruyt is the member of staff currently in this sport is in decline at school or any recent new Long Jump - G W Kelly 21ft 9.5 ins 1956 charge of athletics and we are passing these on to records have indeed gone missing. him as it will be interesting to have them converted Javelin - I C Robinson 178 ft 10 ins 1961 into metric and for current pupils to see what to aim 100 yards - J G Ewan, 10.1 secs, 220 yards J G Ewan Cricket ball - A G I Wood 108 yds 9 ins 1949 for. Do please let us know if you are aware of better 23 secs, 440 yards J G Ewan 51.4 secs - all 1961. In times or distances that we have overlooked. OP Social Events and Reunions OP Events in Photos As well as the careers and sports events, other OP events this year included the OP London dinner at the Cavalry & Guards Club, the Oxford dinner at The Randolph Hotel and the OP Summer Reunion at school. To read more about recent events, please visit the OP web site for reports and more photos.

17 New York Surprise Reunion Godfrey Bloom, UKIP MEP for Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, headed a delegation sponsored by the European Alliance for Freedom to the US in July. Astonishingly, in New York he found himself in the company of no less than five OPs. Interns Rich Skowronek (1999-2010) and Pete Massie (2000- 2010), now both at Newcastle University, his secretary, Vicki Skowronek (1996-2005), his wife Katie Bloom (née Skowronek, 1977-1979), and giving the briefing, Will Thompson (1979-1983), now a very successful businessman based in the Empire State Building. If you have any reunion stories, please send them in to the OP Office [email protected] . 1992 Leavers Reunion Matthew Johnson (1986-1992) organised a very enjoyable reunion of 1992 leavers in York on Saturday 23 June. Matt writes: “The group met at The Living Room in York and even the River Ouse had burst its (L to R) Matt Axup, Pete Massie, Henry Laverack, Louis Smith, Ben Dawes, Charlie Cawood, Will Axup, Jacob Dixon, Josh Miller, Louis Los banks to provide some memories of the same thing 2010 Leavers Golf Day Reunion won the longest drive competition on the 13th and happening whilst we all lived in the area. Once we won a 99p golf club, again courtesy of Oxfam. arrived at the venue I think everybody was a little The boys from the ‘class of 2010’ leavers got together nervous about how the evening would go as so for a small reunion over a good-hearted game of Overall winners were Josh Miller who came 2nd with many of us had not seen or spoken to each other for golf at the KP Club, near Pocklington. The day was a score of 115 and claimed his prize of an ‘Extreme some time, but that nervousness was ill-placed and organised by Charlie Cawood who arranged some Golf’ book from Help the Aged, and Henry Laverack everybody said what a great evening they had which prizes for various competitions throughout the day. who claimed the big prize of £50 for his round of 109. far exceeded their expectations. Charlie supplied beers whilst pork pies and sausage He very kindly bought everyone bacon sandwiches rolls were kindly donated by A Laverack & Sons for which ended up costing him £40! There were many stories about what we had all done the halfway house refreshment. £5 per person was Louis Los won the coveted ‘Wooden Spoon’ award over the last 20 years and hearing about those friends put in as a cash prize for the victor. with a determined round of 138! The boys are we keep in touch with but who couldn’t attend. I think the overwhelming comment was that people had not Josh Miller claimed victory for the nearest the pin planning to make this an annual event and Louis is changed that much and that we should not leave it competition with an accurate drive onto the green on hoping to lose the ‘Wooden Spoon’ title! so long to meet again in the future. There have been the 17th. He won a £3 putter from Oxfam. Will Axup (report by Charlie Cawood) discussions about meeting up again perhaps in the London area to allow some of those that could not travel up to York to attend. The most important thing is that so many of the year were able to reconnect 1982 Leavers Reunion whether it be on e-mail, phone or social network sites and I would encourage as many other year groups to try to hold similar events for themselves. It took a lot of chasing and organising but the enjoyment of the night far outweighed the work put in. Finally I think a special mention should go to those that travelled incredible distances for the event. We had guests from South Africa, America and Canada as (L to R, back row): Matthew Smith, Martin Rumbelow, David Hill, Oli well as those that live locally and slightly further afield Smith, Alex Cowdy, Richard Garland, Matthew Cobb, Charles Rook, Wilf in the UK. We managed to see a few more faces at How, (L to R, front row): Matthew Stephenson, James Stephenson John Skinner (1975-1982), Marcus Townend (1972- the school the next day at the OP Summer Reunion. 1982) and Nick Pierson (1974-1982) organised a Dregs v Bagpipers Reunion The success of the previous evening can be best 30-year reunion of 1982 leavers at the OP Summer summed up by Mr Peel who approached our group Football Match Reunion in June. Over 20 OPs and their guests and asked if we were the 1982 leavers. Clearly we attended the lunch and enjoyed reminiscing during The 15th annual Dregs versus Bagpipers football didn’t look quite as fresh as we should, but hopefully a tour of the school later in the afternoon. Those match was played at the end of April 2012. Formed the night didn’t age us 10 years!” by 1997 leavers, the two teams had a hard fought, staying for the weekend made it to The Feathers on traditionally elongated match. Despite suspect fitness Saturday night for a few drinks too. levels both teams managed some skilful, exciting John commented: “It was a most enjoyable day – a Organising a Reunion? football that left the crowd amazed. Oli Smith (1987- shame that the weather stopped the cricket, but it 1997) and Matthew Cobb (1993-1997) were Men was great to see some old faces.” A number of the • Let the OP Office know if you need of the Match for their teams with Richard Garland 1982 leavers had planned to join in the OP cricket if help planning your event or contacting (1987-1997) also receiving a ‘special’ skills award. the weather had been more favourable. Maybe next contemporaries After the match the players adjourned for food year! Pete Smedley (1978-1982) took part in the OP • Don’t forget to tell us about the and drinks in Beverley. A good time was had by all. tennis matches which did go ahead. Any 1997 OPs who would like to play in future reunion however large or small and matches can contact Matthew Smith (1987-1997) send us your photos for the magazine [email protected]. E: [email protected] T: 01759 321307 18 The Old Pocklingtonian Announcements and Notices Engagements Matthew Tremayne (01-04) to Amy Louise Scott, Forthcoming Events September 2011, Postwick, near Norwich, Quintan 2012-2013 Nathalie Binks (96-03) to Chris Lazenby Thornton (97-04) was one of Matthew’s two best men OPs and their guests are welcome at OP Rob Larard (95-00) to Emma Shipley events! To book or for further details please contact the OP Office or check the OP Daniel Martinez (94-99) to Harriet Biffa of Monaco website for updates. Joshua Papa (96-03) to Amy Wong (96-03) www.oldpocklingtonians.com OP London Business Marriages Networking Lunch Thursday 20 September 2012, 12 noon to 2pm Martin Davies (Staff) to Catherine Postlethwaite The Iron Duke Pub, Avery Row, London W1 (Staff), June 2012 at St. Mary’s Church, Huggate

OP Leeds Reunion Saturday 20 October 2012, 7pm The Leeds Club, 3 Albion Place LS1 £25.00 per person (£15.00 per person for students)

OP Northern Business Networking Lunch Friday 16 November 2012, 12 noon to 2pm Schofield Sweeney Offices, Springfield House, Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 2AY Toby Wilson (91-96) to Lynsey Rennison, April 2012, OP London Reunion in Northumberland Friday 23 November 2012, 6.30pm for 7.00pm The East India Club - £45.00 per person (£25.00 per person for students)

OP Boxing Day Rugby Wednesday 26 December 2012, 12 noon Pocklington Rugby Club, Percy Road

OP Cambridge Reunion Sian Davies (93-98) and Ed Townend (90-98), Saturday 2 February 2013, 7pm August 2011 The Wordsworth Room, St John’s College , details to be confirmed OP Newcastle Networking Event Paul Nesom (95-02) to Helen Jones, March 2012 Daniel Wright (97-04) to Rebecca Laker, September February/March 2013 at Chipping, Lancashire. Bridesmaids included Emma 2011, in Royston, Hertfordshire OP Hockey Nesom (03-10) Sunday 17 March 2013, Pocklington School OP ladies’ and men’s teams v School 1st XI Births teams. Further details to be confirmed Sally Abbott (née Rook, 88-99) and Roddy, a daughter, Sophie Isabel, October 2011 Michael Gilbertson (86-96) and Claire, a daughter, OP Rugby at Pock 7s Gracie Isabel, August 2011 Good Friday, 29 March 2013 Sam Hill (02-09) and Rachel Sellers, a daughter, Elle Pocklington Rugby Club, Percy Road Jasmine, August 2011 2nd Annual Pocklingtonian Golf Day Sandy Mitchell (89-00) and Rebecca, a daughter, Thursday 16 May 2013 Violet, December 2011 The Oaks Golf Club Eszter Pontone (95-97) and James, a son, Harry Bertram Gede, January 2012 OP Summer Reunion (including OP Cricket and OP Tennis) Richard Owen (93-02) and Liz, a son, Edward David, Sunday 23 June 2013, from 11am December 2011 Pocklington School. Further details to be announced Caroline Wheldon (née Henley, 93-00) and Thomas, a daughter, Phoebe May, October 2011 Jess Rogers (94-01) to Dave Hurrell (96-00), August Jamie Woodruff (82-92) and Kate, a son, Rudi, a 2011 brother for Arlo, November 2011

19 Deaths and Obituaries Woodhouse Grange and his sudden death at such a of the great mental freedoms that lead to creation relatively young age is a tragic loss to his family and and innovation. Through John’s work, and that of Nigel many friends. He and his wife Moira had two children Billington too, the establishment and development of who are both young OPs, John (2006) and Sarah the Design Centre became a tour de force that set (2008). Pocklington school apart from others of similar ilk, by their development and promotion of an educational philosophy that joins arts and science together in a John Jeffery (former staff manner that inspired and provided a rationale for and Head of Design, creative thought, design and innovation – at a time 1969-1984) John was when I recall other teachers were all about setting headhunted by former their topics apart from others on false pedestals. John Headmaster Guy Willatt instead made sense of our world, connecting form, to set up a Design Centre beauty, function and creative talent in a joined up from scratch. Working manner. A terrific gift. He certainly was not scared to closely with his colleague stand up for what he believed. I can only say a massive and friend, Nigel Billington, thank you.” they evolved a whole new approach to the teaching John died suddenly in Totnes on February 3rd 2012 of practical skills in art and design, which culminated of a cerebral haemorrhage. He leaves his first wife, in John’s involvement in the creation of the O-level Heather, their children Amanda, William and Tom, and Deaths and GSCE syllabus in Design and Technology and to his second wife Ann and is much missed. Arthur Albrow (1934-1937), his later work for Ofsted. Many Old Pocklingtonians Burton Pidsea, September 2011 will remember John’s lessons in the Design Centre, whether developing ballistic catapults, using John Leaf (1934-1938) died in York Hospital, aged Michael Thomas Andrews (1946-1951), natural forms as a basis for metalwork designs, the 89, seven months after being injured in a car accident of Stockton on the Forest, January 2012 photography club or allowing boys in after school for at Easingwold. Born in Escrick in 1922, John recalled their own projects, such as knocking up a go-kart or Mark Burton (1967-1974), his time at Pocklington with some pleasure and in rabbit hutch. It is also possible they will remember of Thornton, February 2012 particular the days playing cricket in which he was his insistence on accurate marking-out of work, ¼ an all-rounder for the 2nd X1, also making occasional John Jeffery (former staff, 1969-1984), mm either way being the accepted tolerance! John appearances for the 1st X1. He carried on the February 2012 was also involved in set-building and lighting for the farming family business, retiring from Rawcliffe Moor school plays but he achieved most recognition by John Leaf (1934-1938), April 2012 Farm in 1988. He played cricket for Escrick Park, leading and encouraging four pupils to become the Crockey Hill Wanderers and York. He and the then Holly Linda Mills (1997-2003) first ever winners of the BBC TV Young Scientists , cricket chairman, John Temple, played a major part of the Year in 1979. One of these pupils, Nicholas of Thornton–le-Dale, November 2011 in organising York’s move from Wigginton Road to Pollard (1969-1976), now Chief Operating Officer at Nigel Clive Pickard (1975-1985), their current Shipton Road base in the mid-1960s. A Navigant Global Construction Practice, writes of this Nottingham, November 2011 former member of Ganton Golf Club, John became experience: chairman of York CC before taking over as president. Michael Plewes (1940-1944), “It was our A-level year, and I have never ceased to Along with his wife, Di, to whom he was married NSW Australia, September 2011 be surprised that I did well in my A-levels, for the for 65 years, he followed the club home and away. Francis William Ombler Richardson MBE (1929- week before they started I and the three friends on A funeral service was held at York Crematorium. His 1932), of Bewholme, near Driffield, December 2011 the team spent the week in Madrid competing at son, Nicholas John, is also an OP. the European final of the competition, (the follow- Eric Roseberry (1941-1948), on from the BBCTV-sponsored final which had been of Chippenham, February 2012 somewhat earlier in the year). The experience I gained Holly Linda Mills (1997- under John’s guidance was literally life changing. The 2003) We are grateful Roger Edward Stirk (1948-1958), whole competition gave me a profile (undeserved!) to Jenny Brownlee (née of Gowthorpe near Wilberfoss, May 2012 that I am confident enabled my university application Hudson, 97-03) for this Peter Rodney Stone (1956-1964), and job interviews three years later to go very tribute to Holly who of London, died in Bali 1999 well all those years ago: but under John’s hand, the died peacefully at home preparation for the competition and the working after a nine-year battle John Daniel Wharton Wood (1945-1949), through of the project itself taught me planning and with variant CJD: of Castle Eden, County Durham, May 2012 project management disciplines that have served me “I started at Pocklington School in September 1997 well, literally to the present day – whether I have and it wasn’t long before Holly had become one of been building a water treatment plant in Tobago my best friends; a friend I have treasured ever since. Michael Thomas Andrews (1946-1951) died in York in the early 80s, leading a construction project on Anyone who knew Hol would agree with me – she Hospital after a short illness. His home was Stockton the M1 motorway a few years later, running the was the life and soul of any room she walked into. on the Forest and whilst a Day Boy he travelled, along railway network based in York in the late nineties, or She had a wicked sense of humour and was carefree with many others, to school from Warthill station. leading a construction company and an international and fun-loving. He went on to Askham Bryan Agricultural College management consulting business nowadays. It is quite and loved the outdoor life, spending many happy amazing, and I have very often reflected that without I have hundreds of wonderful memories from Pock hours belting cricket and rugby balls around. He was his leadership and enthusiasm my career and home- and Holly features in nearly all of them. Standing in the rooted in village life where he was a much loved local life would probably have been very different shapes. dinner queue was entertaining and usually entailed character, involved in the church and golf club. Holly’s renditions of ‘Shout’ by Lulu (the ‘weeeell’ bit) Equally, I am extremely confident that the four of us and Downtown by Petula Clarke. Her very favourite under his care on that project, though we received thing to do was embarrass us friends, declaring our Mark Burton (1967-1974) farmed at Melbourne near a higher profile, were not unusual for many of the love for various sixth form boys. Of course, there York and was often to be seen at food fairs around pupils that he taught. He was a great encourager: a were boyfriends, many of them, who we girls liked Yorkshire and beyond. In his very busy life Mark found visionary of his time in educational terms, who saw to swap on a weekly basis, but friends being friends time to play good cricket for both the Pixies and for that the disciplines of art and engineering are part all was forgiven after a three-hour chat on the phone

20 The Old Pocklingtonian

and a letter signed off by Holly and all her pets: Lady, up home near the sea in Vincentia, NSW, and had a music – Hindesmith and Schoenberg in particular. He Jack, Max, Grizzles… daughter, Penny. One of his greatest achievements was also conducted the Bath Symphony Orchestra and the yacht he built – 36 feet long, with a steel hull. This smaller ensembles. Amongst his other publications As fate would have it, in sixth form, we began to took him seven years. He later wrote a book ‘One were several articles on Britten’s music. lose our beautiful friend and shortly before she was Man’s Life’ which is in the school library. In the former due to start a course in midwifery at university, she Assembly Hall is a plaque with the words: ”The end of was diagnosed with variant CJD and had as little as a education is a man, not a book”….Michael wrote “he Roger Edward Stirk (1948-1958) was brought up in few weeks to live. Thanks to Linda and Pete, Holly’s surely wasn’t a book, but he hoped he would at least Kirkella and was a boarder for nearly all of his years dedicated and courageous parents, Holly fought CJD turn out to be a man”….. he did indeed! at school. Always a consummate competitor, Roger for another nine years after being treated with the took part in many sports with great success. He was pioneering drug Pentosan Polysulfate. In November, awarded first team colours for rugby, playing centre, Hol passed away peacefully in her sleep after her Francis William Ombler Richardson MBE (1929- in which he was described as an outstanding tackler brave battle. We know that Holly survived as she did 1932) was brought up at Brandesburton and boarded and also played for the 1st X1 at cricket. But it was because of this drug and her mum and dad, brothers in Wilberforce House. His particular friends were perhaps at swimming that he really excelled, being in and sister continue to campaign and support a George Mason, Tom Speck and Ken Wilson, all from the team for several years where he dived. In athletics charity in the memory of Holly. The charity DERG farming families. He thoroughly enjoyed his years at he was also a sprinter and long jumper. Possessed of (Degenerative Encephalopathy Research Group) Pocklington, the friendships he made and the antics a very good tenor voice, Roger performed in many funds research into the function of RNA. We hope they all got up to. He told of cheating in a Latin exam concerts and also represented the school at the that in this way Holly’s legacy can continue to help with other boys and managing to retrieve his paper National Schools Music Festival in London’s Albert others, as she would have wanted. before being discovered. Although not a scholar Hall. As Holly’s friend, I want you to remember her as he was very good at art and swapped doing other After National Service he read economics at Hull she was: beautiful, sparky, energetic, inspirational, fun- boys art homework if they did his English or maths. University and following a period of farming he loving, bubbly, full of laughter, big eyes and an even At sport he excelled at cross country running. From became a financial consultant. He and his wife Janet bigger heart.” school he helped to run the family farms, working the sent their two children, Andrew (85-95) and Frances land first with Shire horses and then with a tractor. (88-97), to Pocklington. He moved to Bewholme Hall and lived and farmed Nigel Clive Pickard there for the rest of his life. He became renowned for (1975-1985), born in his breeding and showing of horses, especially Shires John Daniel Wharton Wood (1945-1949) born West West Germany, had an and was instrumental in keeping the Shire horse going Hartlepool in 1931 he was the only son of Daniel and itinerant childhood in his in Yorkshire. He also showed and judged sheep and Nellie Wood. His father was a chief engineer with the early days as his father was a noted breeder of the rare Leicester Longwool Royal Fleet Auxiliary and served with distinction in was an army officer and breed. In 2002 Prince Charles presented him with an convoys during WW2. As a young man in WW1 he homes included Hong MBE for his services to Shires and the community in served as a lieutenant in the Artillery Company and Kong, Oxfordshire and the Driffield area. He was married to Beryl for 66 was mentioned in dispatches during the Battle of the eventually York. He and years, had 2 children, 5 grandchildren and 8 great- Somme. His C/O was Anthony Eden who of course his younger brother Justin grandchildren. became Prime Minister in the 1950s. started at Pocklington in Lyndhurst as boarders. Nigel particularly enjoyed Drama and Cricket. In the Junior A proud member of the OP Association, he was John’s early schooling was in West Hartlepool at Mrs School play he had a leading part in Ayckbourn’s especially delighted when, in 2010, Jonathan Sykes Crowe’s and Elwick Road Juniors. Aged fourteen ‘Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations’ and later took the part from the Staff Room showed him around the school he was sent to Pocklington and afterwards went of Friar Lawrence in ‘Romeo & Juliet’ and Givola in and with him identified his old classrooms and the straight into National Service in the RAF serving in ‘Arturo Ui’, the latter two directed by Martin Allison. gym (now the chapel) which had been newly opened the accounts branch for two years. After demob John He was an excellent off-spin bowler, taking 7-15 v the year he became a pupil. went up to Oxford, where he graduated in Politics, Bradford for the U15 X1 and in senior teams claimed Philosophy and Economics at Keble College. He many wickets for the 2nd X1 and also took 5-64 for played cricket for his college and made new friends, the 1st X1 v Sedbergh. Eric Norman Roseberry some of them for life. After Oxford he joined the (1941-1948) FRCO died real world and started his career in personnel with After English at Nottingham University he qualified after a short illness in British Rail in East London. He was transferred to as a teacher, eventually becoming head of English at February. Born in Fulwell Sheffield and then to York, which became home until Ilkeston Secondary School. Career moves followed near Sunderland he and his retirement in 1997. and his most recent appointment was as Headmaster his family were evacuated of Ransom Road, part of Nottingham Academy. He While with BR John was asked to go to Botswana for to near Malton early was passionate about creative writing and this passion a year to help them to get their railway sorted out on in the war. He was rubbed off on his pupils. He published two novels and and he enjoyed this wonderful opportunity to visit in the 1st XV and the a body of poetry and continued to be an avid follower different parts of South Africa. He had a great love of Swimming team and by of cricket. He died at home after a short illness and classical music and owned a large collection of every a sad coincidence a few weeks before he died Eric was married with two children. genre from Beethoven to Benjamin Britten. His main penned a short personal memoir of his (musical) time outside interests were cricket and horse-racing; his at Pocklington and this is reproduced in the “Down favourite meetings were York, Wetherby and Ripon. Memory Lane” section. He went on to study music Michael Plewes (1940- at Durham University and forge a notable career as It was York where John put down his roots and he 1944) born in Bridlington a writer and musician. He had a particular interest made many friends over the years. He was a member he particularly enjoyed in Benjamin Britten and Shostakovich. In 1963 he of Yorkshire CC and latterly Durham CC after he cricket at school and devised a special concert to mark Britten’s 50th moved from York to Castle Eden. He had moved retained fond memories birthday. It remained a treasured occasion for Britten. north to be near to his closest relation, Margaret. He all his lifetime of his He was Music lecturer at Sussex University in the was an avid reader of most subjects under the sun schooldays. He spent late sixties and whilst there edited and arranged and had a large private library which could give the many years at sea and in ‘The Faber Book of Carols and Christmas Songs’. He Bodleian at Oxford a run for its money! 1965, after a long battle moved to Bath as Senior Lecturer and whilst there with tuberculosis, he was able to pursue his special enthusiasm for German and his wife Pauline emigrated to Australia, setting

21 Personalia In this section read updates and ‘tweets’ from Old in 1983. His current focus is on Indium and the Rare based at St Michael’s. This followed his time as Dean Pocklingtonians around the globe and from all walks Earths and he spends much time in China. He still of Birmingham. In the 1990s he was regional Director of life. Don’t forget to send us your news for the keeps a watching brief on processed metals and for the Church Mission Society where he was based monthly OP e-mail bulletins and the next issue of the changes in trade practices. in Afghanistan. He recalls many occasions coming magazine. under bombardment and being unable to leave Kabul Malcolm Johnson (58-63) wishes to be remembered and go up country to follow up the many projects he to his contemporaries. He lives in Canada but will Pre 1970 was involved in. be coming over to England in 2013 for the 50th William Campbell (36-44) lives near Darlington. Cambridge Architectural Faculty Reunion and Richard Wilson, Professor (52-60) having lived and He spent some years in the Royal Engineers before was wondering if any of his contemporaries from commuted for many years from Beverley is now in joining his brothers in the family business of merchant Pocklington would be interested in a 1963 Leavers Oxford. He recalls the Sixth Form Study, with a fire builders in Sunderland. Now 85 he recently recalled Reunion while he is over here. If anyone from this and crumpet toasting above the School House dining his talented variety act duo with Edward Latham at era would like to get together, please contact the OP room bay window. He says he and his contemporaries school concerts. These provided light relief to the Office in the first instance. If there is enough interest owe much to the talents and inspiration of Tim Rogers, many classical recitals. we will organise something. Mike Stevenson, Sefton Cottam, James Eggleshaw and Noel Duckworth. Although officially retired Richard Sir Edward Clay (56- Edward P Latham (37-44) after Oxford he worked occasionally lectures on cruise ship tours. 63) is keeping very busy for some years with Barclays DSO in Africa but now in retirement . He is a lives in Wezembeek-Opem close to Brussels. Retired, Jonathan Woolley (54-61) has written with nostalgia volunteer Trustee of six he was Professor at the Institute for European Studies about his years at the school and the difficulty he NGOs, all concerned with with the European Commission. initially found in selecting the right direction to go overseas development, immediately after school. Despite these career and John Moverley OBE, a patron of the Kenya- academic concerns he thoroughly enjoyed his last two Professor, (61-68) has been based charity Excellent years with rugby, athletics, swimming and CCF easily appointed chairman of Development and an filling his time. He trained as a chartered accountant the Forestry Commission, associate of the Centre for Political and Diplomatic though he found the early months as a trainee in a West Midlands. His Studies which offers training on all aspects of noisy, fume-ridden office in Doncaster somewhat career has been within diplomacy. In a lighter vein OPs can find Sir Edward as irksome. Taking up sport again was a good antidote agriculture, horticulture a guest speaker on a Saga cruise ‘Echoes of Colonial and ten years after qualifying he became a partner in and food where he has Africa’. a busy public accountancy practice. Happily married held a number of chief with grown-up children and now retired he lives in Derek Drescher (48-58) had a varied and interesting executive roles in the public and private sectors. In Hawes and managed to come along to the Wetherby career revolving around music. Whilst a studio addition to the Forestry Commission he currently reunion in September 2011. He has two brothers, manager for BBC Radio he produced documentaries works with Azurance, a supply chain and marketing Roger (51-57), now retired and living in Beckingham, on Shostakovich, George Shearing and others. He consultancy in the food and agri-food sector, based South Yorkshire, and Stephen (62-69) who lives in then became producer, eventually specialising in R.3 in Cambridge. Derbyshire. Jazz programmes over a period of fifteen years. In George Moyser, Professor this role he was able to travel to the US several times (55-63) 1970-1989 to record material for documentaries on Jelly Roll was until 2010 Morton, Miles Davis and Sonny Rollins. Latterly he Professor Emeritus at David Agar (73-80) is selected the castaways for more than 300 episodes of Vermont University chief executive of GO- ‘Desert Island Discs’. This meant he was able to invite where he specialised in SIM, the international former school chaplain Canon Noel Duckworth Comparative Politics in prepay card business, and Tom Stoppard onto the island. One of Derek’s Western Europe. He is and is based in York. The contemporaries was David Stather (49-57) who, with also a co-author of the company continues to Keith Walls (49-57), recently translated the school’s book ‘Political Participation expand and has recently Foundation Charter from the Latin. and Democracy in Great acquired businesses in the Britain’. US and the UK. He is also Mark Fisher (58-65), world-renowned architect Ed Swarbrick (55-62) a member of The Yorkshire Mafia, a business support and stage set designer, designed the stage for the is a consultant physician in the group. Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Concert at Buckingham Midlands. His hobbies include equestrian sports, skiing and music. He is extending these to take part in the Palace making full use of the historic backdrop for Adrian Ahl MBE (75-85) following a number of years Round the World clipper yacht race, doing the 1,800- spectacular lighting and visual projections. Mark was in the army he now runs a consultancy service within mile leg from San Francisco to New York and raising also the Executive Producer (Design) for both the the Defence sector, with a particular emphasis on the money for charities, including the John Dolman Trust. opening and closing ceremonies at the London 2012 design and implementation of information systems Olympics. Mike Taylor (63-70) still lives near Brussels. In response and services. He is based in Hampshire. Philip Hawkins (59-67) got in touch with an update. to the school’s languages department’s “where are Jeremy Ahl (80-90) is a Director of Bourne Valley the linguists now” request, Mike says he read French After attending the College of Law at Guildford Systems and Unix Technical specialist at Atos in and German at Cambridge and with this background and London he qualified as a solicitor in 1974 and Hampshire. practised for 13 years with David Lundy (61-68) in went into international commodity trading in New Rupert Armitage (73-83) married with three children, Driffield. He also practised in York, Bridlington and York, London and Brussels. He has also studied lives in Bedfordshire. He works in London as Director Cottingham, where he still practises on a part-time Spanish and Dutch and last year started Portuguese. of Trading at Shore Capital (24 years and counting). basis today along with working as a carer for those Except for Portuguese (too recent) he has used all He often does media work and can be heard and seen with learning and physical disabilities with the Wilf these languages in his professional and private life. on BBC radio and television providing commentary Ward Family Trust. Bob Wilkes, The Very on stock market news. He travels quite extensively, Revd. (57-66) Douglas Hunter (57-66) an attendee particularly in Canada building a franchise in the Oil is an executive Director at the 2012 Oxford & Gas sector of the stock market. Would love to hear with the metal traders reunion at The Randolph from any OPs from his era! Hotel was appointed City Wogen whom he joined Rector of Oxford in 2009,

22 The Old Pocklingtonian

Paul Arthur (71-75) after leaving school and numerous Richard Gowthorpe (77-84) a lawyer and is a partner Christopher J G Parker (76-80) a Barrister, he motorcycle accidents spent 20 years with several in a large west London practice and specialises in attended the 2012 Oxford reunion where he told us international relocation specialists working both in criminal defence work. He now specialises in Crown he has recently joined HMG, an old established firm of the UK and Europe. In 1991, he acquired a visa and Court work and has conducted a wide range of trials Oxford solicitors, and one of his specialities will be tax. migration company specialising in the preparation and from shoplifting to armed robbery. Richard Pearson (81-88) qualified as a vet at management of visas for Australia and New Zealand. Simon Hickey (75-80) has been appointed a Circuit Liverpool with an interest in cattle and pig medicine Matthew Baker (79-86) Judge assigned to the North Eastern Circuit. From and specialises in infectious diseases and parasite following 12 years as Head June he will initially be based at Leeds Crown Court control. He is based in Wiltshire where he is a partner of Press & Publicity at and will move to Newcastle Court at a later date. in the George Veterinary Group. Channel 4 where he was Simon Hudson (74-81) Jonathan Price (82-87) MBE, Colonel has been described as a powerful after some years with appointed Colonel in the Yorkshire Regiment and will and committed voice for Smith & Nephew has now now head up Warfare Development with the Land everything good about formed his own company, Warfare Development Group. the channel, Matthew has Cloud2. Much of their recently become Head of Marcus Ramshaw Rev. (80-89) was for several years work is with the NHS Media for Oxfam. In this role he will lead the response at St Edward King and Martyr Church in Cambridge for whom they provide to emergency situations, long-term development where he held services for Goths. He was recently in healthcare solutions using work and communications. York from where he issued messages of support for the latest IT technologies. the protestors who set up camp outside St Paul’s at Tim Brear (73-81) Yee Khong (73-74) the end of 2011. is a Director of a Professor, has been Harrogate-based financial Mark Readman (72-79) lives in Hampshire where he appointed President of management consultancy is Operations Director with IBM. the Royal College of business. He was five Pathologists of Australasia. years in the Duke of Jeremy Sanderson (76-79) following his time at He qualified in medicine Wellington’s regiment, school, Jeremy was a factory machinist for 2 years from Sheffield University spent a short time in the before spending 11 years in the London Metropolitan and then did his pathology “City” and then moved Police, during which time he studied for and achieved training in London and north to the fresh air. Aside from work he raises an A grade in Japanese O-level. He then spent 5 Oxford. Yee works in Adelaide where he is the money for charities, including the army, and has run years as a bilingual tour guide for Japanese tourists Senior Consultant Pathologist in SA Pathology, marathons and jumped from planes. He also coaches visiting Britain whilst at the same time achieving a BA Women’s and Children’s Hospital, North Adelaide. juniors at Otley RUFC. Hons in Japanese. He graduated in 1998 in which He is Professor in the Department of Pathology and year he emigrated to Japan where he is now CEO Nick Catliff (69-79) was Department of O&G at University of Adelaide and of a recruitment company, Chairman of a rental Executive Producer for the Adjunct Professor, Department of Pathology, National office business and CEO of a motorcycle parts and recent BBC documentary University of Malaysia (UKM). He asks particularly to accessories business. Bomber Boys. Featuring be remembered to Robert Peel in whose House he Colin and Ewan McGregor, boarded when he first came to Pocklington. David Seekings (82-84) after reading Modern History the programme told at Corpus Christi, Oxford, David became a Chartered Nick Lumley (80-87), barrister at Park Court the story of Bomber Accountant and is currently CFO for 4Imprint in Chambers in Leeds, was appointed Queen’s Counsel Command in WW2. Nick Wisconsin, USA. He is married with two boys. in March of this year. A celebratory drinks reception is Managing Director of was held at his chambers in April and was attended Toby Swift (70-79) is a drama Director and Producer Lion Television with offices in London, Glasgow and by fellow OP and barrister Andrew Wilson (89-99). for BBC Radio and has twice won the Prix Italia for New York. Another of his recent productions is Britain his work and in 2010 won a Sony Radio Academy from the Air, presented by Andrew Marr. He also Steve Nesom (66-73) as well as teaching languages at award. created Airport for the BBC which has become one Pocklington School, organising the biennial school walk of the longest running docu-soaps on UK Television. and assisting with the school’s careers department, Harvey Taylor (84-89) currently teaches Business & After English at St Catherine’s College, Cambridge, he Steve will lead the Community Action activity from Economics at university in Bangkok and has also now joined the BBC as a graduate trainee. He was the September. completed Part 1 of an LLB with London University. series producer for The Trial – the first time television He visited the UK in the late autumn 2011 and cameras had been allowed inside British courtrooms. Neil ‘Nelly” Oakshot (79-86) lives in Montreal, has applied to do a teaching conversion course at Canada with his wife of 16 years and their two children, Nottingham Trent University starting in September Martin Crimp (67-74) playwright, continues to Ben (13) and Emma (11). He runs his own business 2012 to teach Business Studies at secondary level in have his plays or translations/adaptations of others’ specialising in filming and editing for TV and corporate the UK. He visited school in December, noting many performed around the world. In 2011 his translation clients. He does a lot of aerial filming all over Canada changes as well as some constants. and adaptation of ‘Gross und Klein’, ‘Big and Small’, (recent claim to fame was aerial filming for an episode was performed in Sydney and in 2012 it will transfer of ‘The F Word’) and he has been a Director of Will Thompson (78-83) to London and feature in the Barbican Festival with Photography on several TV documentaries in Canada. and his old school friend, Cate Blanchett in the starring role. He still has a great love of history which stems from Tim Brear (73-81), got his school days at Pocklington and in particular his together to run the New Jonathan Curry (77-87) is Vice Principal at the history teacher, David Rumbelow. York Marathon, finishing in Ormiston Maritime Academy, a secondary school in 3:58. See picture, Tim on Grimsby. He initially trained as a chartered surveyor, Robert Olsen (67-74) has written and published the left, Will on the right. but when he was 27 he did a PGCE and has been in a collection of fishing stories in a new book, which They ran the whole race teaching since. He says he is currently in a challenging he also designed and illustrated, called ‘Tom’s Book’, side by side and crossed the line together in Central school with never a dull day and it would be a huge published by Wye Angling Publications. The book is Park, encouraging each other along the way. Will lives eye-opener for anyone aspiring to teach in such an a collection of stories about his love of fishing and a in New York and Tim lives in Harrogate. They also environment. personal view of the river. competed in this year’s London Marathon.

23 Eric Tyson (72-77) Lt. Col. is currently assigned to manager for clothing supplier Mountain Hardware. and all the other members of the Royal Family went the US army where he is Chief of Operations, Joint & in as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in June. Jessica Farmer (93-00) moved theatres from Leeds Combined Directorate. He is really enjoying life in the Navy and is part of the to Birmingham Repertory in August 2011 where she Field Gun team. Andrew Wraith (80-85) has worked for Savills is Director of Learning and Participation. for several years as a Director specialising in the Thea Holloway (97-04) is a solicitor in Pickering and Ashley Foreman (09-11) As part of his gap year, restructuring and management of farming and related Kate (94-01) is Head of a Primary School in Hull. took on polo in the North Island of New Zealand businesses. In 2011 he was appointed Head of Andrew (92-00) lives in Bishop Wilton and is a Project for 4 months, then went to Australia for 2½ months Agribusiness across its UK operation. Based in Lincoln, Manager for Fischer Fixings. He is still involved with travelling, working and playing polo. He is now hoping he retains an interest in his own farming business in Pocklington RUFC, but not as a player. He coaches the to work abroad with the English Polo Association, East Yorkshire. He is also a current parent. under 8s team as part of the PRUFC Mini Section. doing photography and applying for a level 4 ski 1990s to Present instructor course. Sam Holmes (99-06) after his first class degree in Business Administration from Bath University now Felicity Freeman (89-99) After a degree in Materials Tom Albrecht (96-03) following an MSc at Oxford works in London as a business strategist with the Science at Cambridge, Felicity joined Rolls Royce in works in Real Estate in Alberta for Fort McMurray. management consultancy firm Accenture Ltd. Derby where she is now Principal Manufacturing Matthew Atkinson (85-93) has been appointed Engineer. Ailsa Hunt (née McDermid, 93-04) starts her first captain of Pocklington Cricket Club for the 2012 job at Fitzwilliam in October 2012. The official job title Tim Garland (90-01) season, Andrew Inns (83-90) is chairman of the club. is Isaac Newton Research Fellowship in Classics, and it has been promoted to Over at Woodhouse Grange Cricket Club opening is a three-year research post at the college, with some Business Development batsman Nick Hadfield (90-96) is vice-captain for the teaching responsibilities. In the meantime Ailsa is busy Director of Elvington 2012 season whilst at Londesborough Park, Charles finishing off her PhD which she hopes to complete Holdings Limited. Tim Rook (87-97) captains again. before her new job starts. joined the family firm 15 Georgia Byas (04-10) months ago, which has Matthew Johnson (86-95) lives in Wooburn Green, represented her country been run by his father Buckinghamshire, married Alison in 2006 and has at hockey in the England Ken Garland, who is still a son Samuel (4) and a daughter Lola (1). He is U21 women’s hockey Managing Director, and his mother Sue Garland, who currently working as a Sports Marketing consultant team at the age of just is a Director and Company Secretary. for The Rugby Football League having been Director 17. Georgia, who was of Marketing at Taylor Made - Adidas Golf for eight Tim, aged 28, is married and lives in York. Prior to included in a squad of 22 years and working at Diageo for seven years before returning to York he worked for 5 years in London for a weekend of training that. He has recently accepted a new position as as a Site Manager for a London-based construction and matches, played in Brand Director for Titleist Golf and will be relocating company, having previously obtained a degree two of the three matches in the test series against with his family to the Cambridge area. Scotland. England won two of the matches and drew in Construction Management at Northumbria Tom Kay (97-07) with Scotland in the third. University. has graduated from RADA Richard Gough (96-05) has moved back to Cirencester, Richard Clark (87-94) married Rachel Sweeting where he appeared where he studied at the Royal Agricultural College, (91-96) in September 2010. Richard is a partner at in many productions to take up a new position at Property Pathfinder, an Knight Frank, the property consultancy, and Rachel is including ‘Look Homeward independent property development company. Prior an Associate Director and PR Manager at Savills plc. Angel’, ‘Tea and Sympathy’ to the move Richard was with Knight Frank in their Both work in Leeds and live in Wistow near Selby. and ‘The White Devil’. Leeds office. He has also appeared at Harry Coates (97-08) has started as a graduate Charlotte Harris (01-08) the National in a much trainee with Kraft Foods following his 1st class degree , who is training to be a vet, praised revival of the early in Logistics from Aston University. appeared on ITV’s Safari Vet School. She featured in one episode where she was helping to operate on a seventeenth century play Jorden Dick (04-09) spent two weeks back at lion. It appears her CCF training whilst at Pocklington ‘A Woman Killed with Pocklington School in March on work placement paid off as she won the darting competition! Kindness’. module as part of her Sports Science degree. She David Harvey (90-95) Michael McKinstry (00-11) has spent a varied gap recently graduated from Liverpool John Moores qualified as a solicitor in 2001 year – Starbucks, freelance photography, church University and is about to start a PGCE to go into and is now a partner with a firm in Louth, dealing volunteer and summer camp in the US teaching teaching. with agricultural property including development projects such as wind farms and large-scale pipeline youngsters 6-16 to sail. Before starting chemistry at Kyle Edmund (02-06) continues to make a name for agreements. He is also legal advisor to Lincolnshire university he finishes the gap year off by taking part himself in world junior tennis. At the end of 2011 he Deer Group and Governor of a local Prep School. for the third time in the Pan Massachusetts challenge, was a semi-finalist in the US Open Boys’ event and a two-day 200-mile cycle ride to raise money for a James Hill (87-97) followed this up by playing for the Great Britain team is a qualified Chartered Surveyor cancer charity in Boston. who won the Junior Davis Cup in Mexico. In the 2012 and is currently executive director of the commercial Carol Milner (90-93) is continuing to work for French Open (Juniors) he reached the Quarter finals property section at Adalta Real in Banbury. His conservation, sustainable development and education before falling to the No.6 seed. He has also in recent responsibilities include sales, lettings, acquisitions, and in the environment and in January 2012 founded months become one of Roger Federer’s practice lease renewals for clients throughout the UK. Biosphere Association as a UK Charity to support partners. Simon Holden (97-05) work in these areas. In 2011 she participated in two Anthony Emmet (87-94) has established himself congratulations to Simon, projects in Indonesia, studying coral reefs, working as one of the country’s leading adventure athletes. a Direct Graduate Entry with local populations to address local environmental In 2011 he raised money for Cancer Research and (Warfare) to the Britannia issues such as plastic pollution washed ashore, took part in the UK Epic Tri. The first part was a 65- Royal Naval College in and educational outreach programmes to inspire mile run over 42 mountain tops in the Lake District Dartmouth. He passed stewardship of the environment. One project helped followed by biking from John O’Groats to Lands out in December 2011 initiate the declaration of a marine protected area End. The monster race finished with the Devizes and was selected to be part of the Honour Guard around two islands with turtle nesting beaches. See to Westminster Canoe race. By day he is country on the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral while the Queen www.biosfirindonesia.org. Carol lives on a 100-

24 The Old Pocklingtonian

year-old, 113ft sailing ship named Mir, which is itself Gemma Tomlinson (née Smith, 94-01) married masterminded their record run of five championships. a platform for people wishing to learn about and Stracey John Tomlinson on 27th December 2009 He will now captain the 2nd X1 and develop players experience living on the sea. This winter Mir has been and had a baby girl Heidi Louise on 10th April 2011. for the first team. renovated and the old, leaky deck repaired to prepare Completed a BA Hons degree in English Literature Ollie Wride (96-07) and his band Joywride have been for returning to Indonesia and then sailing to Sri Lanka. with Qualified Teacher Status in 2005 with a 2:1. given an investment of £50k in a mixture of cash, legal The focus in Sri Lanka is to survey the cetaceans left Now working as a class teacher and Special Needs and recording costs by a small group of three private in the surrounding waters. Coordinator in a North Yorkshire Primary School. investors. If all goes to plan another £150k will be put Eszter Pontone (95-97), after reporting the sad news Rebecca Ward (94-99) following on from a degree into the band over the next 12 months. of the loss of her twins and her work on the Sands in Business Studies Rebecca is Financial Director for a web site in the last issue of the magazine, Eszti is media company in Dubai. Her sister Racheal (90-97) delighted to share the happy news that her son Harry graduated from Heriot Watt and is now a chartered was born in January 2012 weighing in at 10lbs! See accountant in Malton and brother James (87-94), also Staff Annexe the birth announcement for further details. an accountant, works in York and for several years played rugby for Hull RUFC. Richard Poskitt (93-98) is Raw Materials Manager Farewell with Prosper de Mulder based in South Yorkshire. Rob Webber (94-04) congratulations to Rob who The school bids farewell to the following staff: They are the largest integrated food chain recycling played well enough for Wasps to be selected for the business in the UK. England Six Nations final squad as hooker behind James Playford (2010-2012), Design, moved to a Dylan Hartley. He came off the bench in most matches school in Hong Kong Nick Ridley (84-93) is Logistics Director with Aldi, and was due to go to South Africa with England in the based at the Darlington regional distribution centre. summer but an operation following a shoulder injury Helen Scott (2010-2012), Mathematics, moved to He lives in Yarm. has side-lined him. He is joining Bath RUFC for this Marlborough College Nicky Scott-Somers (née Whatford, 91-98), as well coming season and has been included in the England Rachel Spencer (2010-2012), PE and Games, moved as teaching languages at Pocklington School, has been squad for the autumn internationals. to a school in Beijing, China appointed as a Lower School Housemistress for Andrew Wilson (89-99), a Barrister with Wilberforce Hutton and also takes on the role of i/c Spanish from Jonathan Sykes (2007-2012), Geography, moved to a Chambers in Hull, has now moved to Sovereign September 2012. school in Bermuda Chambers in Leeds, where he will be increasing his Carly Smith (97-05) is due to be married on 28th specialisms in insolvency, commercial and civil fraud. Richard Valentine (2011-2012), Biology, moved to October 2012 to Robert John Olley. She gained a Beverley Grammar School Toby Wilson (91-96) is a conservation officer in 1st Class Honours in Psychology from Hull University Scotland, partly in the office planning new habitats, Sarah Wass (2004-2012), Spanish and French, moved in 2008 and is now working in the education and partly in the field guarding eagles and ospreys. He on to pastures new with her family and development department for the Yorkshire well remembers the bird group he joined at school Ambulance Service. Jonathan Webb (2003-2012), History, moved to and visits to Bempton. He married in April. Durham School as Deputy Head Matthew G Smith (87-97) still combines playing Alistair Wood (85-92) is Executive Director of saxophone for weddings, birthdays and balls around AEG Europe where he has been focusing on the the UK as well as teaching north and south of the development of the O2 arena in Greenwich, South Nicholas Clements Humber and can be found on www.mattsmithuk. East London. The area houses a live entertainment com. (Headmaster, 2000-2007) arena, cinemas, exhibition and retail outlet space and Nicholas and Fenella have recently welcomed a new Philip G Smith (85-95) continues to supply ready-built restaurants. It is to be further developed to include baby son into the family, Dominic George Clements, boats and build-yourself boat kits in Kendal. His firm, flats and a hotel complex. He is married with two born on 6th May 2012 weighing 8lbs 15oz. Lucinda Fyneboat Kits, are now also supplying surf boards. children and when time permits manages some golf and occasionally cricket. and Oliver are now 11 years and 9-years-old Michael Stubbins (80-90), went on from Pocklington respectively and the whole family recently moved to to the University of Dundee gaining a BSc and then Marcus Wood (82-90) has stepped down from the Washington DC where Nicholas is now Headmaster a PhD before starting employment in the R&D captaincy of York CC after seven years. He led the of the British School in Washington. department with GlaxoSmithKline in 1997. club to a Yorkshire League trophy double in 2004 and, after runner-up finishes in 2005 and 2006, he then

Cufflinks £16.50 (plus £2 p&p) OP silk tie £18.00 (plus £2 p&p) OP Merchandise Quincentenary silk tie £18.00 (plus £2 p&p) The OP Association is pleased to announce the return into stock of the OP silk tie in OP colours.

Also available are cufflinks with the new school Close-up of cufflink crest, and a Quincentenary silk tie. To order any of these items please send a cheque payable to ‘Old Pocklingtonian Club’ for the correct amount (including p&p if applicable) along with your order to: OP Office, Pocklington School, West Green, Pocklington YO42 2NJ. The intention is to make items available to purchase online in the very near future. Please check the OP web site which will have a link to the new online merchandise store. In the meantime, if you wish to purchase items and pay using online banking, please e-mail Joan ([email protected]) in the OP Office who will send you further details. Quincentenary tie cufflinks and OP tie(left) , (right) 25 T-Lo the Legend End of an Era in Boarding Trevor Loten (1970-1980) stepped down as Housemaster of Fenwick-Smith House at the end of the summer term after 12 years in the post. Trevor, or T-Lo, as he is affectionately known by the Fenwick- Smith boys, finished on a high with a farewell party at the annual house barbecue. Many OPs and staff came along to join current boarders and house staff in wishing Trevor well as he moved out of boarding. It was a wonderful evening of reminiscing, enjoyment and musical highlights with Trevor performing his own version of ‘My Way’ after a heartfelt farewell speech. Trevor will continue to teach maths at the school and will also take on the role of Middle School Housemaster for Hutton from September but will remember his time in Fenwick-Smith House, and School House prior to that, with great fondness and much happiness for many years to come.

26 Then…Pocklington Station 1966

Now…Pocklington School Sports Hall 2012

Pocklington School, West Green, Pocklington YO42 2NJ Tel: 01759 321307, E-mail: [email protected] www.oldpocklingtonians.com