THE SILHILLIAN

2017

www.silhillians.net

P E R S E V E R A N T I A Contents President’s Letter 2 The Wainwrights 34 President-elect 4 P**s up in a Brewery 38 Editorial 6 News & memories from OSA Committee 8 Former Pupils 39 Headmaster’s Reflections 10 Boarders’ Reunion 55 OSA Trust Report 20 Obituaries 56 Clubhouse Update 22 Grafton Morrish 71 Under 25s 23 Old Sils v Old Warwickians 73 Development & Sports 79 Alumni Relations Office 24 Acknowledgments 80 Lunches, Dinners and Balls 29

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BUSINESS ADVICE | ACCOUNTANCY | TAX PLANNING | GROWTH STRATEGIES 0121 693 5000 | jerroms.co.uk “ T H E S I L H I L L I A N ” the magazine of the The Old Silhillians’ Association Limited (The Former Pupils of Solihull School) The Leonard Stevens Building Solihull School Warwick Road Solihull West Midlands B91 3DJ

Telephone: 0121 703 2963 Email: [email protected] Website: www.silhillians.net ISSUE 68 NOVEMBER 2017

President 2017 Jonny Dugdale 1 Dear Old Silhillians Well that year certainly shot by! And what a year it has been. The Association continues to grow and adapt to new challenges and a growing membership, which also grows younger each year. We continue to look at new ways of engaging our younger members, and I am delighted with the focus that the Committee has given to this endeavour. To that end we have hosted Christmas events for under 25s as well as the annual leavers’ BBQ. Although numbers to these events were not as strong as we would have

The President’s Letter The President’s hoped for, we continue to meet the membership’s expectations from what they want from their Committee. At the recent OSA Ball I was delighted to see that a far larger proportion of the membership than previous years was made up from our younger members, whose enthusiasm for the event was welcomed by all. It is easy to take any one aspect of the OSA in isolation and assume that that is its sole endeavour, be it the Memorial Clubhouse, Events, Careers involvement with the School, the OSA Trust or indeed this wonderful magazine (that’s not an Editor’s addition to my article by the way!). This year, my eyes have been truly opened to the variety of activities that make up the Association, to which I hope I have done justice in a brief summary of my activities below. From the outset I was thrust into the many events of the Association and the School. I was delighted to read a lesson at the Nine Lessons and Carols service in the presence of the remarkable choir and have since attended four Careers evenings, the opening of the Coton Rugby Pitch, the School’s wonderful adaptation of Tommy and been invited to each of the auspicious occasions that make up the School calendar, and for that I am very grateful to the Headmaster and his management team. As to the wider Association, I have had the good fortune to attend the annual dinners of the Golf Society, the Rugby Club, the Hockey Club, the Past Presidents, Shenstonian Lodge and the Over-60s, each showcasing the wonderful breadth and range of activity that the Association is connected to. And with the new year of course come new challenges and a new President to face them, and I am delighted to introduce this year’s President Elect, Jamie Clapham. Two years my senior (nobody believes me), Jamie’s involvement with the Association over the years has been remarkable and he has been a trusted colleague, manager, captain, committee member and friend during that time. I look forward to hearing of Jamie’s achievements in the coming year.

I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the Committee for another 2 year of incredible contribution and service to the Association. The effort that The President’s Letter is put into the running of this Association is immense and the dedication of its Committee is central to its ongoing success. On behalf of the wider membership, thank you all. And so to the last few challenges and events of my presidency, two events that I have been looking forward to and thinking about all year, namely Remembrance Day, which every Past President that I have talked to has noted as being one of the most awe-inspiring moments of their respective terms, and the OSA Annual Dinner, set for 25 November this year. I hope to see as many of you there as possible and please see Silhillians.net for further information on the event. I have been truly blessed to have been involved with and contributed to the OSA over the last ten years, however this year has unsurprisingly been the pinnacle of my time with the Association. I look forward to many more years with the Association in whichever capacity I can be of most value to it. I would like to thank you all for your support during the year and look forward to the exciting times to come for the Association.

Best wishes Jonny Dugdale (Windsor, 2004-06) THE OLD SILHILLIANS’ ASSOCIATION - PAST PRESIDENTS 1921/22 Dr AV Bernays 1957 FR Bishop 1987 G Stubbings 1923 C Aldrin 1958 LG Highway 1988 MS Saunders 1924 WR Ludlow 1959 HA Steele 1989 HJC Taylor 1925 PE Martineau 1960 CWD Cooper 1990 MJD Smith 1926 PH Reading 1961 HT Wilcox 1991 RJC Graves 1927 HA Hughes 1962 WP Townsend 1992 BW Allen 1928 HS Matthews 1963 DH Billing 1993 GM Hughes 1929 TA Furse 1964 HB Callaghan 1994 HE Blow 1930 CH Palmer 1965 CT Coton 1995 AJ Richardson 1932 LC Reading 1966 MJ Wheelock 1996 P Callaghan 1933 LE Horton 1967 PJ Hill 1997 MC Bettridge 1934 F Burnett 1968 BJW Swift 1998 PA Thomas 1935 RH Whitehill 1969 FAR Moon 1999 JM Batsford 1936 CL Hughes 1970 JEJ Baggs 2000 J Woolman 1937 FJ Osborne 1971 RG Toy 2001 BJD Wilde 1938 HD James 1972 TG Jones 2002 MA Cutler 1939/43 WRL Horton 1973 JMB Urry 2003 N Smith 1944 FL Nock 1974 DM Powell 2004 R Jerrom 1945 AG Bragg 1975 MJ Cusack 2005 BW Allen 1946 JB Mayers 1976 RC Young 2006 PA Thomas 1947 CW Bragg 1977 KJ Foster 2007 SD Allso 1948 EG Wilcox 1978 T Jackson 2008 JA Platt 1949 AJD Mansell 1979 DA Gurnham 2009 RJ Young 1950 JM Urry 1980 PBL Instone 2010 ME Levenger 1951 KW Highway 1981 JLR Hare 2011 JN Harrison 1952 Dr. KD Waters 1982 RC Cupit 2012 PG Davies 1953 BE Hatton 1983 DD Cox 2013 JR Bates 1954 MAD Cooper 1984 DW Edwards 2014 Julia Skan 1955 JT Rolfe 1985 SC Mackay 2015 JC Loynton 1956 VO Hawley 1986 JRD Orrett 2016 SG Westwood 3 When our current president Mr Dugdale asked to have a quiet word with me earlier this year, I assumed that it was another question on how to play hockey, an ongoing issue with our current President-elect President. However, it was a very flattering request to become the President-elect of the OSA. Of course my response was easy, “What’s the pay and do I have to release all of my policies via Twitter?” The answers to which were nothing and you don’t get to make policies, so of course with a Jamie in one of his many appearances complete lack of influence for the Hockey for Heroes team or incentives I had to say, “yes”.

The OSA has been a big part of my life even whilst I was at school. As a keen sportsman, and in particular hockey player, I have been a member of the Silhillians’ sports club since I was 14 and whilst I was still at school. And I have been lucky enough to be heavily involved in both the hockey section and more recently the OSA itself ever since.

My days at school, as a proud Windsor boy, were heavily influenced by sport and, much to the dismay of my teachers, not as much by academia. Throughout the winter months I was an avid hockey player and lucky enough to be awarded first team colours and the much coveted stripy blazer in my upper fifth year. During the summer I could be found either running the 1500m or opening the bowling (soon to be followed by fielding on the furthest boundary from the action and then by batting at 11). Whilst I made it through my GCSEs and A Levels I was never one for exams and, more importantly, revising for said exams (a trait that continues to this day).

I managed to find my way into University and despite being away from Solihull and the day to day activities of the OSA still remained active within the hockey club and attended former pupils’ events.... usually 4 any dinner which involved a bottle of port. Since leaving university the clubhouse has become a regular haunt of mine whether playing sport or President-elect just enjoying a drink.

Outside of the OSA my hockey has allowed me to help to support many charities, and most importantly to myself, Hockey for Heroes. This is an organisation which helps to raise funds for Help for Heroes, a charity supporting our armed service men and women with both physical and mental aid and remains a cause close to my heart. If you would like to see more on this cause and how you can help please check out the website www.hockeyforheroes.co.uk or just speak to me and I will happily buy you a pint at the same time.

I am already anticipating an exciting year next year as President and getting to know more members of the Association as the year progresses.

Kind regards

Jamie Clapham (Windsor 1997-2003)

5 Dear Old Silhillians Back again! Issue No. 18. Will I make 20? Who knows? I know I have said it before, but the growth in the use of social media has Editorial meant that many former pupils feel that there is no need to contribute to The Silhillian as they keep in touch with their mates on Facebook or other social media. Whilst I understand the benefits (and some of the great issues) of social media, it should not preclude Old Silhillians from writing pieces for the News from Former Pupils section for those of us who are not their ‘friends’ on Facebook and who may still be interested in knowing what other Old Sils get up to. A lot of the anecdotal history of the school is held between the covers of the last 67 issues of this magazine. That is a very valuable resource and it would be an awful shame to lose it. The recent memories of an 18 year-old are every bit as important (and probably more accurate, but never let that get in the way of a good story!) as those of an 80 year-old. When you remember something funny or odd that happened at school write it down and when you have collected a few send them to the Editor so that they can become part of Solihull’s rich history. Fellow boarder Tony Thompson (School House 1961-66) sent me his book, P*** up in a Brewery, about his exploits in the brewery trade. As I know very

PAST EDITORS 1. Bernard Owens (1950, 53-55) 2. Brian Coghlan (1951-52) 3. Arthur Upton (1956-60, 63) 4. Robin Cooper (1961-62) 5. Mike Cusack & Mike Callaghan (1964) 6. Mike Cusack (1965-67) 7. Brian Knight (1968-71) 8. Geoff Herne (1972-74) 9. Nick Atkinson (1975-76) 10. John Woolman (1977-79) 11. Simon Wilcox (1980-82) 12. Martin Cotter (1983-85) 13. David Gilbert (1986-87) 14. Robert Chetland (1988-89) 15. Reg Instone (1990-91) 6 16. Richard Graves (1992-94) 17. Claude Coton (1995-99) 18. Malcolm Lawrie (2000- Editorial little about beer or drinking it I passed it to another boarder, Reg Instone (School House & Jago, 1967-74), who is an expert in the field, to review it (see page 38).

Whilst I am on the topic of boarders, and it’s surprising how many one bumps into in the clubhouse on a Saturday, I am very much looking forward to the Boarders’ Reunion to be held on 30th June 2018. A few of us ‘Old Lags’ have been helping the ladies in Development & Alumni Relations Office sort out the day’s events. The suggestion that it be should held in a shebeen next-door to a bordello was politely brushed over, so it will be at the school and the clubhouse. There is more information about this event later in the magazine and in an enclosed flyer with the mailshot.

It would be remiss of me to let this opportunity pass without mention of the loss of a very dear friend of mine earlier this year. Graham Webb is a rugby legend whose presence is sorely missed at Copt Heath. Although Webby was a Tudor Grange boy he was the epitome of what every Old Silhillian should strive to be: an utter gent; a fantastic example of genuine sportsmanship; great company; generous to a fault and a real pedant when it came to grammar and spelling! Most of all, he was a man of great integrity. I hope they didn’t crack the mould when they made him, but it is very hard to find anyone who meets all of those qualities to the standards that he did.

A great loss for the Association was OSA Past President Roger Cupit. Roger was a man of great wisdom and common sense. He always enjoyed the craic in the bar where his advice was often sought and never ignored. There is a fitting tribute to him on page 61 by his very good friend Bob Young (Pole, 1949-54).

As ever, I thank all of the contributors and advertisers. There are some cracking memories. Some are long, but the content was such that it was impossible to put them to the blue pen.

Someone asked me why I signed off last year as being in the Senior House, which is clearly Pole. Well, it was because Denis Tomlin always referred to Pole as the ‘Senior House’ and who am I to argue with the great man. As to why Denis referred to Pole as the senior House ... I suspect it had very little to do with the school’s history and more to do with the fact that Denis was Pole Housemaster at one stage in his long and illustrious career. With my very best wishes, Malcolm Lawrie (the Senior House, 1968-75) 7 P.S. Alright, so I might have lied about the beer! OSA Committee OSA

Johnny Dugdale Jamie Clapham Simon Westwood President President Elect Imm. Past President

Barry Allen David Lloyd Pete Davies Chairman Headmaster Hon. Secretary

8 Joe Bates Max Levenger Malcolm Lawrie Hon. Treasurer Management Chairman Silhillian Editor OSA Committee

John Harrison Rupert Young Harry Morgan General Member General Member General Member

Simon Griffiths Megan Lloyd Peter Earl General Member General Member General Member

Dan Super Graham Loader Laurence White 9 General Member General Member General Member The Headmaster’s Reflections The Headmaster’s

Headmaster David Lloyd, Aoife Mannion (Windsor, 2012-14) and Chairman of Governors Mark Hopton (Shenstone, 1968-73) at this year’s Speeches and Prize Giving Once again, it is that time of year for reflection and planning, and it is with pleasure that I report on the exploits of the 2016-17 academic year. However, before I do I would like to thank Aoife Mannion, OS and our youngest ever guest at Speeches and Prize Giving, for a most appropriate and uplifting presentation. As well as being a graduate of Economics from the University of Birmingham, Aoife is also a professional footballer at Birmingham City and captained her country, England, in a recent A Level Results Day international tournament. Aoife’s words resonated with our pupils, recent leavers, colleagues and guests and she certainly embodies the school motto, perseverantia! Let’s begin with academic results, and whilst not our very best year, 2016-17 was yet another strong year. At A Level, 80% of all grades were at A*-B grade and 50% were at A*-A grade. At GCSE, 90% of all grades were at A*-B grade and 65% were at A*-A grades. 23 members of this year’s Lower Sixth start their A Level courses with 8 A* grades or more. Demand for places remains strong and we started the current academic year with circa 1,050 pupils, our highest ever. For us, national A Level reform is now complete and I do hope we can settle down for a period of stability with the political football that is education firmly in the cupboard. However, the GCSE landscape continues to change and pupils are now leaving the Upper Fifth Form with a mix of letter grades and number grades. In time, all GCSEs will be grade 1-9, with letter grades a thing of the past. Why, you may ask? Well, the main reason is to allow for more differentiation with, for example, 3 number grades 10 (7, 8 and 9) replacing 2 letter grades (A and A*). Consequently, any pupil obtaining a 9 The Headmaster’s Reflections will have scored close to full marks, securing the equivalent of a very strong A* grade, or an A** grade, if such a thing were to ever exist. One trend that has become apparent at A Level is the impact of university fees on pupils’ decision making. Anecdotally, two things seem to be happening. Firstly, more school leavers are going to university closer to home and living with parents to reduce future debt levels, and secondly, more leavers are opting out of further education, or seeking different routes to obtaining a degree. There appears to be a resurgence in apprenticeships and sponsorship programmes offered to A Level leavers, such that gifted 18 year olds are able to combine work and study with employers picking up the tab for university fees, thus saving the individual something in the region of £30,000 of tuition fees alone for a three year degree course. Whilst I see the attraction of living at home and/or joining the workforce, my advice to those doing A Levels is not to be too transactional about going to university. It’s not just a precursor to work, but also an experience to be enjoyed for its own sake. Living in halls of residence and then private rented accommodation and throwing oneself into undergraduate life is something to be cherished and remembered forever. Please don’t wish your lives away. Be mindful and live in the moment rather than judging each experience on where it might lead and how much money it may ultimately yield. Talk of being mindful leads me nicely to another major development of the previous year. We introduced ‘mindfulness’ to the curriculum in several year groups some time ago, but this is set to increase significantly in the near future. We plan to bring PSHEE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) and wellbeing together, setting up a new department to deliver a rebadged ‘character education’ course throughout the school. We are currently in the process of recruiting a Head of Department to lead A Level Results Day

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12 The Headmaster’s Reflections this exciting initiative and the course will also be driven by the much publicised skills gap we often hear employers’ associations and universities refer to. Indeed, many employers rank leadership and communication skills higher than academic results in their recruitment. Mindfulness has also been informed by the national and local mental health agendas and will continue to be so. Whereas mental health was once a taboo subject, we are working hard to encourage members of the community to speak up when they are not coping or feeling (mentally) unwell. Mental health is a spectrum which we are all on and few, if any of us, remain in the same place on that spectrum. In other words, we all have good times and bad. Consequently, we have introduced or enhanced a number of initiatives to improve the wellbeing of the community. Several years ago we introduced the Employee Assistance Programme for all employees in time of need, for example, access to counsellors 24/7. And, when our school counsellor (for pupils) recently retired after several years of distinguished service, we changed tack and formed a ground breaking partnership with the charity, Safeline. Safeline provide us with a ‘Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Worker’ and a suite of counsellors with different specialisms, for example, art therapy. We have counselling coverage every day and counsellors do sometimes visit pupils and their families in their homes during the holidays. The overriding aims are to talk openly and freely about mental health issues, to help those in need, and over time, to develop greater resilience throughout the wider school community. There is so much expectation and pressure on the shoulders of young people and this has fostered a worrying fragility in the face of adversity and disappointment. Staff are committed to improving the wellbeing of our community and over half are now trained in Mental Health Youth First Aid – in stark contrast to the one member of staff in each school recommended by the Government! Furthermore, last year we officially launched our parent seminar programme which is intended to help parents better understand mental health and other pertinent issues. I believe that our stance and the

Remembrance Day

13 partnership between the school and Safeline are quite unique, and I am very proud of the work we have undertaken. Selecting the co- curricular highlights of the year is always a very difficult and potentially dangerous thing to do. We now talk about The David Frickë Mountain Cottage the ‘Big 5’: Academic

The Headmaster’s Reflections The Headmaster’s Enrichment (debating, public speaking, etc), Drama, Music, Outdoor Education (Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, CCF, Terriers, etc) and Sport, and all are flourishing. Are we the best in the country at any one? Probably not, but not far off in several. Are there many schools who excel in all 5? Probably not, but we certainly do – without any doubt whatsoever. As most are aware, the highest accolade that can be bestowed on any pupil is that of full school colours and this is recognised by the award of our famous striped blazer. Those wearing a silver school crest on the colours blazer have received the award in a single activity and those with a gold crest have received the award in more than one area of school life. Full school colours can be awarded for excellence and commitment in any of the ‘Big 5’, and also leadership and community service. This year we have introduced half school colours and this is recognised by the award of a lapel pin badge. Half school colours will be awarded to those pupils showing enthusiasm and endeavour, but who are not quite ready for full school colours yet. Another significant recent change is the formation of Solihull’s own Pride group. The group aims to promote equality and diversity, advance education and eliminate discrimination in relation to LGBT+ and other groups, creating a safe place forall members of the community to thrive. I am very proud of the group’s energy and work to date, and look forward to future initiatives. So, returning to co-curricular activities, it is impossible to recount all the highlights, but I particularly enjoyed this year’s senior musical, the rock operaTommy , and I hope the pupils enjoyed it as much as the adults clearly did! Similarly, the Junior School continues to ‘raise the theatrical bar’ and the Amazing Adventures of Super Stan was a real treat. In 2016 we were invited to St James’ Palace to meet Prince Edward in recognition of our many achievements in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and this year is no different with pupils achieving 76 Bronze awards, 47 Silver awards and 19 Gold awards, a remarkable achievement indeed. 14 Photo right: A Scene from the Senior Musical - Tommy 15 The Headmaster’s Reflections The Headmaster’s

J1’s Trip to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History Just this summer, our range of trips is further testament to the diversity of activities on offer. In addition to regular Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, CCF camp, language exchanges and pre-season training, festivals and tournaments, pupils trekked in Alaska and Canada, performed to great acclaim at the Edinburgh Fringe, visited Japan and experienced horse riding and ranching in Colorado. This is a far cry from my school days when a trip to the Isle of Man was long awaited! Moreover, whenever pupils do go on school trips, I frequently receive letters and emails from third parties stating what wonderful ambassadors our pupils are. Following on from recent high profile visitors such as Tim Reid (Windsor, 1980-85), co-writer of Car Share, starring Peter Kay, and Mike Bullen (Shenstone, 1968-78), writer of Cold Feet, we were delighted to welcome David Walliams who came to speak to pupils about his latest book, The Midnight Gang. I think it’s fair to say that he was very entertaining and even surprised an unsuspecting class of mathematicians by squashing his face against their classroom window! In debating we hosted the regional rounds of Oxford and Cambridge competitions and proceeded to the finals in both, and this year’s Big Debate, hosted by Michael Buerk (Shenstone, 1955- 65), was ‘This House would jail the owner(s) of media organisations which publish factually misleading news’. We also competed successfully in the Foreign Language Spelling Bee competition, Rotary Youth Speaks, the Bar Mock Trial competition and the European Youth Parliament, speaking in the latter on topics of mental health, 16 obesity and relationships with the Donald Trump administration. In excess of 100 The Headmaster’s Reflections pupils signed up for the Extended Project Qualification and we hosted our largest ever careers convention and our first international universities fair. Both were a triumph. In music, we sang at St Paul’s Cathedral and on the BBC Radio’s Morning Service, both now annual events, and we enjoyed two organ recitals on our Nicholson organ, a saxophone day and a chamber music workshop. As a Steinway Initiative School, we were able to use Steinway Hall in London for a concert and OSA gathering, whilst enjoying a piano master class from Steinway artist, Charles Owen. In addition, we now have strong relationships with the European Piano Teachers’ Association and the European String Teachers’ Association, the former holding regional piano competition rounds here at school. In sport we have enjoyed individual success on both the national and international stage in archery, athletics, golf, sailing, skiing, swimming, and even karting, and our boys’ and girls’ teams have also had a very successful year. We reached two national cricket finals, with our U13 XI winning and U15 XI coming runners up, the 1st XV reached the final of the NatWest Plate at Sixways Stadium and we now host what is arguably the largest schools 7s tournament in the UK, with over 2,000 players participating. In addition, our cricket 6s competition is growing in recognition and standing, with teams from England and Wales competing annually. We have forged strong relationships with Worcester Warriors for rugby and Wasps for J1’s Trip to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History netball, and our netballers have maintained their status as County Champions across several age groups. Our Junior School athletes were once again victorious in the Director’s Cup, fending off schools from across the borough, and our male and female hockey teams enjoyed typically successful seasons and are looking forward to playing on our two new artificial surfaces this year. Furthermore, we renamed the senior The Choir at St Paul’s Cathedral

17 rugby pitch The Coton Pitch in memory of Claude and Dora Coton who were lifelong supporters of school and Old Silhillian rugby. We also officially opened the Keith Sach Suite on the top floor of the Cooper Building in recognition of Keith’s contribution to the school and life-saving, which later became a major part of his distinguished and selfless career. Both Senior and Junior School assemblies are packed full of good news and celebration stories each week and the Team of the Week contest is always a very difficult choice! Probably my greatest highlight of the year, and certainly my most emotional, was going with a group of our pupil dancers to Reynalds Cross School. For the dancers this was a weekly event (and still is) and Reynalds Cross is a school for severely mentally and physically impaired pupils; many of the pupils at the school require one to one care around the clock. The school is run by an inspirational woman, who until this year was one of our parents and is an Old Silhillian herself! Although dance is a relatively

The Headmaster’s Reflections The Headmaster’s minor activity at Solihull, we were fortunate to have a group of girls, who although now at university, have left a legacy for younger pupils to carry on. The momentum is very strong and exciting, and bodes well for the future. Watching the dancers teach these children was both heart-breaking and heart-warming. They did the most fantastic job and the children loved every minute of it. It was difficult to articulate my feelings at the time, but the experience encapsulated just what is so special, and dare I say unique, about the Solihull community, a community I feel very proud of indeed. David EJJ Lloyd, Headmaster The Opening of the Coton Pitch. Arthur Townend, David Lloyd, Peter Thomas (Chairman of the OSA Trust), Tom Serle (Capt.) & Benny Watson

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BRI011_Generic_Advert_Template_A4_Portrait.indd 1 24/10/2016 11:42 This year has seen significant progress in all areas of operations, made possible by the outstanding contributions of my fellow Trustees.

As a perpetual trust operating in a current climate of economic uncertainty, we must balance our commitment to growing the reserves with our desire and obligation to distribute income as meaningful grants and scholarships.

The year has generally been a quiet one for the Trust with very little change from the previous The OSA Trust The OSA year in terms of business activity, though I am pleased to say that we have received more in the way of testator donations than in previous years. I would remind all Old Silhillians that bequests made to the Old Silhillians Trust can and often do prove to be highly tax efficient when finalising an individual estate.

This year the Trustees decided that the time had come for us to look very carefully at the way we invest our finances. As Trustees we have an obligation to review our finances regularly and ensure that any money held by the Trust is invested with a low / medium low risk attachment, thus delivering solid investment results which enable The Old SilhilliansTrust to achieve its grant making objectives. For many years, the balance sheet has been showing good growth year on year in our only stock market holding ‘The London Stock Exchange’. Our original investment of only £3,500 had grown extremely well over the years. However, as I said earlier, for many reasons and perhaps most especially because of the Brexit decision, the Trust is operating in a climate of extreme economic uncertainty. Uncertainty is the most damaging of all climates for the stock market. For this reason, the Trustees decided to cash in our investment in one single stock and look to re investing elsewhere. We

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Pardip Singhota 20 Outsourced HR Advice & Support crispinrhodes T: 0121 745 5700 E: [email protected] CrispinRhodesPS The OSA Trust managed to sell at possibly the top of the market and receive some £66,000, a profit of some £62,500 on our original investment. As a result of this sale the Trustees have appointed BRI Wealth Management plc to actively manage our investments going forward. I am personally delighted to confirm that Paul Cusack (son of the highly respected Past President of the Association Mike Cusack) who is the Head of Private Clients and Wealth Manager will be our principal contact at BRI and has agreed to attend Trust meetings on an as and when required basis to provide a regular update on our investment portfolio.

As in previous years the school remains the focus of our attention and I am again delighted and proud to report that we have been able to offer 4 members of the upper fifth Old Silhillians Scholarships for their time in the sixth form.. I don’t think we should ever underestimate just what a significant impact the awarding of such scholarships has on individuals and their families. Indeed I am pleased to say that in these uncertain times it is testament to all that is good about the charity that we have been able to take on even greater service delivery in the past year.

Whilst the principle financial objective of the Trust remains that of providing scholarship awards to those entering the sixth form, we are still able to offer financial support to students in other ways. Jack Williams was this year the recipient of financial support from the Trust in his efforts to raise funding for World Cancer Research by taking on the Fjullraven Polar challenge which saw him crossing 300km of Norway’s frozen arctic mountains on a dog led expedition. Well done, Jack.

In summary, I believe the Trust continues to be governed in an effective manner in accordance with the Trust Deed, the duties and responsibilities obligated on the Trustees under the law governing Charitable Trusts in English law.

You can be reassured that the Trust is in good shape and that, with a combination of adherence to regulation, maintaining the Trust’s reputation and retaining a high caliber and integrity of Trustees, we will continue to safeguard the assets of The Trust.

I cannot underestimate the impact of information technology, and we are being continually challenged to increase our capabilities in this area. Malcolm Lawrie continues to be my IT guru and I thank him for bringing a luddite like me into the 21st century. With Malcolm’s support I hope that we will be able to create a framework which enables us to harvest valuable data from the School that will inform our strategic directions. I therefore welcome the opportunity to collaborate with the school in developing a platform for shared data.

Finally, I would like to thank my fellow trustees for their contributions and support during 2016/17. In particular I wish to thank Joe Bates who will be retiring as a Trustee at the AGM later in the year. His valuable support and contribution to the Trust as Treasurer for 10 years has been very much appreciated. The financial resources of the Trust have been carefully stewarded and accurately reflected through the work of our financial controller Joe. I know that I speak on behalf of all the Trustees when I extend our thanks to him for his willingness to provide timely and considered information that has proved so valuable in our decision making.

Peter A Thomas 21 Chairman of the Board of Trustees This year has been another strong, positive year at Copt Heath. The club has seen further developments in the upgrading the fabric of the facility and an increase in usage since the well-publicised redevelopment a couple of years ago. Clubhouse In the summer, we employed Laurence Byrne (right) as our new General Manager. Previous to joining us, Laurence had a wide-ranging, 18 year career in the sports, recreation, hospitality and events sectors which followed 7 years in the Royal Navy and 12 in local government. He’s just returned from 6 years in Saudi Arabia and the UAE where he worked with companies such as EMAAR and the Compass Group. Working with Football and Golf Clubs, he also played rugby for many years before turning to golf. Now three months into the role, he has cemented some agreements to a more sound commercial footing, found us some new users and implemented a number of new initiatives, so if you haven’t met him please pop in and say “Hello”. Ann Beirne remains a constant on the team and her newly appointed Operations Manager role allows us to utilise her skills with the customers and ensuring everything front of house remains on track. We have welcomed Birmingham City Ladies Football Club and we are now their training ground and training facility. We have started a table tennis section and initial interest and figures seem encouraging. Myself and Dan Super have restarted a junior cricket section which had a satisfactory first year which we look to grow on in years to come. Earlier in the year we completed the resurfacing of the higher car park (photo below).

22 Clubhouse We still are sorting through some issues such as completing the lighting for this and improving the lower car park, but every year sees an improvement in facilities for our users and hopefully next will see this completed. We have employed Mark to work with Andy on the grounds to replace our apprentice Garnio. Mark has over 30 years’ experience working for a local golf course and having this secondary expertise has increased the quality of the pitches even further. This in hand with an enhanced summer maintenance programme that, although costly, has led to the pitches being in the best condition for a long time. We have engaged in a programme with the Institute of Groundsmanship who are currently conducting their own report. If they also think this to be the case, we will publish the results when we get them. Corporate and function business is growing and we are looking to continue this, so if there are any events you’d consider holding, please do call to find out more. Max Levenger Management Chairman Under 25s The OSA is for all former pupils of Solihull School, and it’s been great to see such engagement by our most recent leavers - the U25s - over the past year. I’d like to share a few of our highlights.

As ever, the annual Old Boys and Old Girls fixtures were hotly anticipated and well attended. This year, Old Sils won in Netball and Rugby, with a 1-0 loss in Hockey. The brilliant day of sport was topped off by an emphatic win for Silhillians 1st XV to secure the Midlands Cup. The Clubhouse and the pitch were packed and it was great to see so many familiar faces.

In August, the Class of 2017 - our newest members of the OSA - enjoyed a BBQ on the eve of their Results Day. Many thanks to their Heads of School, Lydia, Joseph and Jessica, and Hannah Butler for helping to organise. The results and team photos from the annual hockey and rugby matches against Old Warwickians can be found on Page 73.

A special mention must go to 2014 leaver, professional footballer and U25s sub- committee member, Aoife Mannion (Windsor, 2012-14). Aoife was the guest speaker at the Benchers’ Soirée, just days before playing in the Women’s FA Cup final at Wembley. Aoife was commended for her speech to the Benchers and was later invited to speak at the annual Speeches ceremony.

The OSA U25s sub-committee is a sixteen strong sub-committee, comprised of year representatives from a variety of years. ‘Year Reps’ work to develop the relationship between their year and the OSA, including attendance at events. With three U25s in the Main Committee, U25s attendance at the OSA Ball, School Open Mornings and Christmas Reunions, U25s continue to have a strong presence at events and an even stronger relationship with the OSA.

U25s are always welcome to join the sub-committee. Please email me on harrym@ silhillians.net for further information. 23 Harry Morgan (Windsor, 2003-14) Steinway Hall London 17 January 2017 As part of Solihull School’s affiliation with Steinway Pianos, a selection of our outstanding music students performed in an hour-long concert at Steinway Hall in London. They received a masterclass, a tour of the workshop and had the chance to perform a concert in their amazing studio! We welcomed Old Silhillians, former music teachers and parents to this outstanding event. The Opening of The Coton Pitch On 21 January 2017 the senior rugby pitch was officially renamed the Coton Pitch in memory of Claude and Dora Coton. Claude Coton (Shenstone, 1931–38) passed away in 2009, aged 88 and Dora passed away 2015 aged 91. Claude was a distinguished past captain and president of the Old Silhillians’ Association Rugby Club and continued playing until he was 55. Claude and Dora Coton were great

Development and Alumni Relations Office and Alumni Relations Development supporters of the school and Old Silhillians’ Association rugby, and as a result of their generosity we have constructed a new pitch perimeter fence and purchased an electronic scoreboard. It was great to see so many Old Silhillians gathered for this event. Headmaster David Lloyd paid tribute and Peter Thomas (School House & Shenstone, 1966–73) a great friend of Claude cut the ribbon and said a few kind words. Solihull 1st XV went on to win the inaugural match on the newly named pitch by beating Loughborough GS 1st XV 33-15, before lunch was served for guests in the Alan Lee Pavilion. Choral Evensong at St Paul’s The Chamber Choir returned to St Paul’s Cathedral on 27 February 2017 for the fifth consecutive year to sing Choral Evensong. Our current parents and friends were joined by Old Silhillians, former parents and former staff who enjoyed hearing the choir sing music by Ayleward, Harwood, Howells and Bairstow. Following Choral Evensong we were delighted to welcome Old Silhillians, former parents and former staff to Corney and Barrow for drinks and canapés. Guests enjoyed reflecting on the service as well as catching up with old friends and making new 24 acquaintances in a warm and welcoming setting. Development and Alumni Relations Office Old Silhillians’ Sports Day On 18 March 2017 the school opened its doors to former pupils, parents and staff for the alumni versus current pupils sports matches. It was an unforgettable day with great results all round - Netball: 17-12 to Old Girls, Hockey: 1-0 to current 1st team, Rugby: 24-0 to Old Boys. After the matches at school we headed down to the Silhillians Sports Club where over £5,000 was raised for the RFU Injured Players Foundation. It was a busy afternoon of rugby both on the pitch and on the big screen. We saw a fantastic win from Silhillians RUFC 1st XV vs Rugby Lions 26-21 to secure the Midlands Cup! Tommy the Musical and Alumni Drinks Reception Since 1976 the school musical has always been a focal point of the school calendar and again this year was no exception. On 22 March 2017 over 90 members of the Silhillian community including former pupils, Governors, former parents and former staff joined us for the production of The Who’s legendary Rock Opera Tommy. One of our guests, Tim Schwersenz (Pole, 1964-72) was a cast member in the original 1975 film of Tommy, and took part in the famous Pinball Wizard scene with Elton John. Tim thought the musical was fantastic and was one of the first to give a standing ovation. Prior to the performance, guests were invited to drinks and nibbles in the Keith Sach Suite. Here they could meet old friends and reminisce about the musicals they had been a part of. Lynn Moseley and Debbie Lloyd - the lovely Over 60s Tour and Lunch girls who slave away in the Development and On 10 May 2017 we were delighted Alumni Relations Office to welcome over 40 members of the Old Silhillians Over 60’s group back to the school for a tour. Old Sils from as far afield as America came back to see the recent developments and reflect on changes since their time as school boys. The Old Sils thoroughly enjoyed themselves, reminiscing about the School in their time and admiring the facilities available to our current pupils. Following the tours the guests went on to the Old Sils’ Clubhouse where they could meet up with more old friends over lunch. Opening of the Keith Sach Suite 15 May Keith Sach (Biology Teacher, 1970-79) was a much valued member of the school community. In his nine years at the school, Keith used his variety of talents to support pupils and staff alike through numerous extra-curricular activities including; Middle Fifth House Tutor of Jago; Warden of the Chapel; Warden of the Swimming 25 Pool; Assistant Careers Master; and Director of Biology Field Courses. Keith was Back Row: Middle Row: Front Row: Paul Instone, Roger Beavis, Jean Dodgeon, Elizabeth Sach, Belinda Griffiths, Mike Sansbury, Peter Clark, Phillip Griffiths, Martin Ayers, David Gillian Slaughter, Romayne Instone, Margaret Beavis, Pat McGowan, Raye Garrett, Jenny Clark, Valerie Costard, Anne Lee, Leslie Garrett, Giles Slaughter, Ann Wrenn, Sylvia Bailey, Jill Godsall, Daphne Berridge, Diana Turnbull, Eleanor Chapman, Jenny & Jill Spurrell Sansbury Catherine Aldis, Colin Wharton, Mike Derrick King, Nick Blythe, Dodgeon, John Geddes & Loynton Aldis, Arthur Brooker, Richard Costard, Tim Adkin, Trevor Archer & David Spurrell Retired Staff (PRA) Lunch & Tour

26 Development and Alumni Relations Office a long term member of the Royal Life Saving Society and left Solihull in 1979 to become RLSS UK Director and Commonwealth Secretary. Keith was a great supporter of the school right up until his death in July 2016. He regularly attended a wide selection of school events and took great satisfaction from using his skills, experience and contacts to enrich the lives of Silhillians. He was a selfless man and supported the school aims, particularly ‘community’, throughout his association with Solihull. In memory of Keith and all that he has done for Solihull and Silhillians past and present, we were pleased to welcome family, friends, and former pupils and staff back to school on Monday 15 May for the official opening of the Keith Sach Suite. The Headmaster and Keith’s daughter, Katy, both spoke of their memories of Keith and the importance of Solihull in his life and we were pleased to dedicate the top floor of the Cooper Building to Keith by naming it the ‘Keith Sach Suite’.

The Big Debate We were delighted to welcome Michael Buerk (Shenstone, 1955-65) President of the debating society, back to school on 19 June 2017 to chair the third annual Big Debate. The motion, ‘This House would Jail the Owner(s) of Media Organisations Which Publish Factually Misleading News’ was proposed by pupil Oliver Rooney and James Field (Pole, 2000-07) who is practising as a Solicitor Advocate dealing with commercial litigation. The motion was opposed by pupil Cerys Stansfield and Simon Neville who is a Business journalist currently writing for the BBC. Guests voted overwhelmingly in favour of the proposition prior to the debate however, Cerys and Simon used their exceptional debating skills to change the mind of the audience who voted in favour of the opposition at the end of the debate. The motion was debated intensely with the speakers facing some tricky questions from the audience. We were thrilled to have so many guests including former and current parents, pupils, staff and governors join us for the evening. Our special thanks go to Michael, James and Simon.

Retired Staff Lunch & Tour (PRA - Poor Retired Academics) On the 5 July we were delighted to welcome over 40 of our retired staff, from as far back as 1954, to school for lunch and a tour. The group, including former Headmasters, teachers, music and admin staff regularly meet and have done since 1983. They thoroughly enjoyed visiting Solihull, catching up with old friends, reminiscing about their time here and admiring the developments that have taken place since they left.

Birmingham Business Drinks Old Silhillians from across Birmingham came together with staff from Solihull at Primitivo Bar and Eatery on Thursday 5 October for the biannual Birmingham Business Drinks. Alumni enjoyed catching up with old friends and making new connections over a drink after work whilst also having the opportunity to hear a little more about life at school. 27 28

Gateley Old Silhillians A5 advert PATHS.indd 1 25/09/2017 15:11 Lunches, Dinners and Balls

OSA Ball This year’s OSA Ball took place in the marquee on 1 July with a theme of a Night at the Oscars. Guests were greeted by red carpet paparazzi before re-hydrating with a glass of Prosecco in the reception area, accompanied by a performance by the School’s own Saxophony. Seats were then taken with the Headmaster kindly leading the assembly in Grace before enjoying a four-course meal atop tables garlanded with Oscar and Film artefacts including the “Golden Statues” themselves. Following a delightful meal and a “Heads n Tails” competition raising nearly £400 for the OSA Trust (Polly Levenger going away with a bottle of pink Bubbly!), the attendees took centre stage to the tune of live band Quest who tore through all the classics and ensured that the dance floor was full at every point of the evening. I would like to thank all who attended this year’s OSA Ball. Although modest numbers, the marquee remained suitably full and I hope all who attended it enjoyed it as much as I did in organising it. Onwards and upwards to next year! Particular thanks must go to Julia Skan, whose decorating skills brought the evening alive, Ann Beirne and her bar staff and Rupert Young and his catering squad, all of whom contributed to a fantastic evening.

Jonny Dugdale (Windsor, 2004-06) Old Silhillians’ Association Past Presidents’ 60th Annual Dinner held at the Memorial Clubhouse on Friday 24th March 2017 The 60th Annual Dinner was well attended and Senior Past President Bob Toy welcomed Jonathan Dugdale President of the Association, David Lloyd, Headmaster, Mark Hopton Chairman of Governors and Immediate Past President Simon Westwood. After photographs, members sat down for a superb dinner provided by Rupert Davies and his team. A minute’s silence was held in memory of David Billing. Past President Simon Westwood was introduced into the Society by Peter Callaghan and the President gave an update about current developments and news of the Association. Bob Toy toasted the school and Headmaster David Lloyd responded in his usual informative and entertaining way. Being the sixtieth anniversary of the founding of the Association, Peter Callaghan rose 29 to speak briefly of the past mentioning a few Past Presidents by name but in no way intended to diminish or wilfully ignore the contribution of those whose names were omitted. It was in 1962 that Bill Townsend wrote that “the fact that we have an annual change of President could possibly have a retarding influence”. Looking around I wonder if there was anything in what he said. He also wrote that he regretted not being able to start the construction of the Presidential porch in his year of office. The contemporary accounts in the Silhillian tells how the President had to cope with the work of the development of Copt Heath and the first full year of the Association as a limited company. Bob Toy’s attention to detail and his administrative ability was essential in our first year as a limited company. Bob possessed the energy and enterprise which he put into every task he undertook. Bob also presided over the Golden Jubilee Dinner held in the school refectory in 1971. We know that Mr Bushell called a meeting to form an Old Boys’ Club, the S.O.B.C. in February 1921. The Chairman of Governors was Dr Bernays, not an old boy, but he was the first President Lunches, Dinners and Balls Lunches, Dinners and Mr Bushell was Chairman. Dr Bernays was followed by Cecil Aldin who was a very well-known painter of animals, sports and rural life and famous for his illustrations of Anna Sewell’s well-loved novel Black Beauty. He presented a set of prints to the school which I’m told used to hang in Big School. In the early days the Past Presidents met at St Paul’s Club and in 1957 Vic Hawley founded the Past Presidents’ Society. Claude Coton’s account of the first 75 years of the Association in the 1996 edition of the Silhillian is well worth another read and tells of how blessed the school was with outstanding players in sports in the 1920s who all became presidents of the OSA in the 40s, 50s and 60s. He mentions Jack Urry, AG Bragg, the Wilcox brothers, Mike Callaghan, Dink Steele and Peter Taylor. The President was presented with the new badge of office being worn by our current president, at the official opening of the Dingle Lane clubhouse on 12 September 1954. In the 70s the tradition of the sports clubs providing Presidents continued including Messrs D. Powell, M.Cusack, R.Young, K. Foster, T Jackson, J. Hare, R.Cupit, D’Cox, D.Edwards, G.Stubbings, J.Taylor, and M.Smith. Trevor Jones moved to separate the Association affairs from the sports clubs in 1973 but the trend has continued with many Presidents coming from the sporting sections. Past President Gordon Wilcox should be mentioned because of the outstanding generosity in presenting the school with a sixth form scholarship, 3 squash courts and the Gordon Wilcox and Clovelly Trusts. Past President Mike Callaghan provided the school with numerous pupils, many of whom distinguished themselves in many from the 1930s, up to 1973 and continued to entertain and amuse Old Sils at dinners for many years. Unlike today’s more leisurely proceedings the new President used to be voted in at the AGM in the old Lecture theatre at school after the Old Boys’ Rugby match. Then it was off to the George and then back to school for the dinner and speeches. For many of us Old Boys’ Day in December followed the AGM on the night before and was always a real challenge for any President who played golf early next day in the December Vase, enjoyed a good and hearty lunch, went to school to watch the School play, the Old Boys at Rugby, talk to staff, old boys and parents at afternoon tea and then go home only to get dressed for dinner and arrange to be driven up to the clubhouse where he had to meet the guests and ensure that they knew that they had 30 to speak after the dinner, have photograghs taken, enjoy another hearty meal and finish with that 20 minute speech. The dinners were organised by the secretaries to whom we owe a great debt of gratitude; many of them became presidents. They did Lunches, Dinners and Balls a marvellous job as did the treasurers and other back room boys. The biggest nightmare that we all had to face during our year of office was to manage our assets and balance the books. Up to the early 1970s the responsibility for the clubhouse, sports clubs and grounds lay with the President, Secretary and Treasurer and the committee of volunteers who ran everything including the Entertainment Committee and the Ladies Society for example. When the M42 came along it fell to Pat Hill, Mike Wheelock, Barry Swift and others to deal with the re-alignment of the clubhouse. We are grateful to Paul Instone and his colleagues who were responsible for the clubhouse extension. The establishment of the Management Committee made life much easier for the President and we do owe a great debt of gratitude to all the management chairmen, secretaries and treasurers. As well as visiting the school and addressing Sixth Form Leavers, Presidents also encouraged old pupils to meet other Old Sils at Dinners held at their universities at Oxford, Cambridge, Bristol, Exeter, and Sheffield. Now the London Dinner and Birmingham lunches are well established and attended. The Association, like the school, had to adapt to changing and challenging circumstances as predicted by Roger Cupit when he posed the question back in 1982 “Is it the role of the association to run a much more commercial venture and do we have the management to do it?” The school had to make very hard decisions when in the early 70s when faced with the loss of 30% of free places from the LEA, it decided to admit girls for the first time. This was received by many Old Silhillians with mixed feelings. Does anyone now regret that courageous decision the Governors made? So too with sale of the steward’s house and development of the clubhouse. Courageous decisions made by a tiny percentage of the membership at the general meetings were met with great uncertainty. I include myself as one of the sceptics forced to accept the decisions made, but now appreciate the work and execution of the plans by the Birmingham Quartet Chairman Barry Allen, Secretary Peter Davies, Treasurer Joe Bates and Past President Rupert Young with the help of a core of capable and supportive Old Sils in providing such a wonderful facility here. We have now completed the cycle with the return of the Chairman in the shape of Barry Allen. For many years he has been Chairman of the Main committee, served as president twice and has overseen the transformation of the clubhouse with its challenges and successes. The other past president who has served twice is of course Peter Thomas. As Chairman of the Old Silhillians’ Trust, he has presided over the raising of thousands of pounds to fund the scholarships and is a very keen and active supporter of both the school and the Association. As Old Silhillians look down the list of Past Presidents on page 3, I hope they will take a moment to consider and appreciate the work, support and love of all those who are no longer with us but whose legacy we now enjoy and sometimes very much take for granted. It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Past President Roger Cupit recently. He will be greatly missed by his many friends and the thoughts and prayers of the past presidents are with Pat and his family. The next Annual Dinner of the Past Presidents’ Society will be held on Friday 23rd March 2018 in the Memorial Clubhouse 31 Peter Callaghan (Pole, 1959-67) Over 60s Luncheons Report It is pleasure to report a good number of Old Silhillians into their 7th decade and beyond continue to make this biannual get-together very much a success story. In October last year, we had some 85 attendees including 5 newcomers and two guest invitees, one of whom is always the Headmaster and the other, the incumbent Association President. It was especially good to have Headmaster, David Lloyd grace our table again after school business had kept him away from the previous two lunches. Needless to add, he delivered a most interesting update on life and times at our school. Simon Westwood, our then President followed suit with an update on the Association.

This lunch saw our Chairman of some 5 years, Nigel Holmes (Pole, 1951-60) decide it was time to step down to enjoy future lunches as simply “one of the boys”! He had enjoyed the considerable support of a small organising committee in Mike

Lunches, Dinners and Balls Lunches, Dinners Smith (Fetherston, 1956-64) as Secretary and Bob Standley (Fetherston, 1957-63) as Treasurer. For some inexplicable reason, this committee unanimously decided Nigel’s replacement should be your correspondent, a perennial member of the “naughty table”. Perhaps a stint on top table, they reasoned, would improve (his) standards! Thankfully Mike and Bob continue to keep an eye on such things and we are lucky to have them.

Sadly, it was reported three of our number had passed away in the previous 7 months – Keith Crisswell (Shenstone, 1949-52), Peter Duddy (Jago, 1952-58) and Sturges Taylor (Shenstone, 1953-62).

And so, to May this year when a near record 102 attended including a very encouraging 23 newcomers of whom one was from Cincinnati and another, Napier, NZ. Our usual two guests saw the Headmaster, again updating the assembled throng in his usual, most erudite style and latest Association President, Jonny Dugdale following

32 Lunches, Dinners and Balls suit doing his bit. Formal proceedings then concluded with the Headmaster kindly presenting recently retired Chairman, Nigel with a suitably engraved whisky tumbler and his favourite tipple, a 10-year bottle of malt.

This was the first Over 60s lunch female Old Silhillian Over 60s had been entitled to attend. Records showed just 10 ladies were eligible but only 6 addresses were known. Sadly, and hopefully, no reflection on the new chairman, none of these attended but one must be encouraged in the knowledge some 55 will be eligible in 5 years’ time!

Sadly again, it was reported in the previous 5 months, a further three of our number had passed away – Geoff Downman (Fetherston, 1944-51) , Fred Harris (Jago, 1952- 57) and David Pulley (Pole, 1943-50).

To conclude with a couple of appreciations, first to Rupert Davies and his team for providing the lunches. Never an easy task with a large group of Old Silhillians to satisfy! Second is to Susie Jordan, who vacated her role as Director of Development and Alumni Relations at the end of August. Susie had been with us for well on the way to 3 years and was of immense help to many, and not least, the Over 60’s committee with their lunches — that’s staging them, not cooking them, of course! We wish Susie every success in the future. Peter Bragg (Jago, 1955-64)

W. Bro Bhupendra Tailor, Master Shenstonian Lodge W. Bro Stuart Jenkins, Secretary ([email protected]) W. Bro Simon Westwood, Immediate Past Master https://www.silhillians.net/The-OSA/Shenstonian-Lodge https://www.facebook.com/ShenstonianLodgeAndChapter5544/ The 2016-17 season proved a busy and enjoyable one for the Lodge. The number of visitors attending has meant that we have been packed to capacity. We have enjoyed excellent cuisine at the Clubhouse, thanks to Rupert, and this has enhanced our reputation amongst many attending. In addition to a very well attended regular ceremony, the Lodge enjoyed a superb tribute to W. Bro Martin Saunders on the occasion of his 50th anniversary in The Craft, followed by a lecture on the historic (as opposed to legendary) aspects of the construction of King Solomon’s Temple. This was followed by an exceptional presentation of a Grand Lodge Certificate. The Lodge set aside the March meeting for our second ‘White Table’ evening. Why they are so called, I have no idea. A better name would be ‘Friends and Family’ evening. The Lodge had a very brief meeting and, when closed, visitors are invited into the Lodge room and are able to explore what we do, how we do it and the reasons why. This was followed by an excellent informal dinner attended by the OSA President. W. Bro Bhupendra ‘Pip’ Tailor will have been installed as Master by the time you read this. Our February 2018 meeting will be another ‘Friends and Family’ event; this time with a visiting speaker who will deliver a superb and lively presentation on ‘Crime and The Craft’. Mike Neville is a recently retired Metropolitan Police Detective Inspector with a number of books on Masonic themes to his credit. Masonic and non-Masonic 33 visitors are very welcome to attend what will be a superb evening of entertainment. On Wednesday 19th April 2017, my 60th birthday, I climbed my 214th and final “Wainwright” fell in the Lake District. Between 1955 and 1966, Alfred (AW) Wainwright, published seven volumes of books entitled A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, each volume covering a different area of the Lake District. The The Wainwrights books are themselves individual works of art. Each page is hand-drawn by Wainwright himself, including (fully justified) text, maps, routes of the ascents, views and other drawings of points of interest along the way. He described a total of 214 fells over the seven volumes, and “doing the Wainwrights” is a target that many keen walkers set themselves.

I first became acquainted with Wainwright’s works when in Shell form Another one knocked off - at the School and the annual Terriers’ the summit of Dodd walking trip to the Lakes at Easter 1970, then at Hammarbank on the outskirts of the town of Windermere. I remember very well the first walk that I did on the trip – the Langdale Pikes, a very distinctive group of fells including Pavey Ark (my very first Wainwright), Harrison Stickle and Pike O’Stickle. The fells were still covered in snow at the time and to my 13 year-old mind looked like the Alps (although only a little over 2000’ in height). I asked the master leading the walk (I forget who, now), with some trepidation, whether we would go “to the very top”. He replied airily, “Oh, I should think so”. This was my first lesson that I learnt in fell walking – the fells often look more ominous from a distance than they do when you are actually on them.

At Hammarbank, the night before a walk, there was a planning meeting for each walking group. The main reference was the Ordnance Survey maps, but almost of equal importance were the Wainwright guidebooks as they provided such a wealth of information in planning routes, possible escape routes if the weather became too bad and in particular the views we could appreciate once the summits were achieved. By using these, we could visualise very well what the walk would actually be like on the following day.

I later became a Terriers instructor, so continued to go on the annual trips to Hammarbank from 1972-75, at which point I left the School and went up to Sheffield University. However, my School trips to the Lakes did not end there, as for the Easter 34 1976 trip (Hammarbank was no longer available, so this trip was based in Patterdale), I was invited back to help guide the walks, along with two other Old Sils who had The Wainwrights also left the year before; Ed Millar (Fetherston, 1965-75) and Stephen Bromley (Shenstone, 1966-75), I seem to remember.

After graduating from Sheffield, I spent some time in the south, so never ventured to the Lakes for many years. It was only really after I had got a lectureship at Bath University and married Barbara, that I really thought about fell walking again. We were thinking of places to go for a summer holiday and I asked whether she had ever been to the Lake District. She said she hadn’t, so we agreed that it might be a place to try. We both fell in love with it (me for the second time) and have been back there virtually every year, usually at Easter, since then. We did many fells together but it was only in the last ten years or so that I realised that it would be feasible for me to complete the whole set. Barbara’s health has prevented her from managing the higher fells for the last few years, but I have managed to keep ticking them off. In 2016 I completed the 213th – Pillar, which involved a 10 mile walk from the end of Buttermere, over Scarth Gap (a climb of several hundred feet), back down into Ennerdale valley and then start the ascent of Pillar, returning the same route involving another ascent over Scarth Gap. Pillar was covered in snow and I encountered horizontal sleet on the way down, so was relieved and exhilarated to get back to Buttermere. This left one fell to do.

The plan to attempt the completion on my birthday only came to mind when I realised that my birthday would fall in the University’s Easter vacation, and so I would be free to go up to the Lakes for that week. Not wanting to make the final ascent on my own, and knowing that Barbara would not be able to manage it, I rented a large cottage on the outskirts of The final Wainwright completed Keswick and invited my brother, With my brother Bob on the final summit Bob, and his wife José, along with three friends from the University. We all met up on the Saturday and kept a close eye on the weather forecast for the Wednesday. The weather in the Lakes can be unpredictable but I was pragmatic about it – if it had been pouring with rain that day, I would have done the walk another day that week. Sunday was wet, Monday was better, but there was low cloud, so the higher fells were all in mist. We all did a “loosener”, a low fell called Latrigg which is very close to Keswick. Tuesday again was misty, but on Wednesday 35 although there was still cloud and a little light rain at times, the fells were clear of mist and so we set off. For various reasons, only three of us made it to the summit, with Bob and José completing the ascent with me.

The Wainwrights The following day I bought myself a little plaque (pictured) from Keswick market as a keepsake of the The unveiling of the Ansell Memorial Plaque by his sister, Mrs Dorothy Payne,on Sunday 24th June 1973. feat. People ask what I will From left to right: Bruce McGowan, Denis Tomlin, John Jammes (?), do now – start all over again? My little memento Roger Flood, Mrs Tomlin, Mrs Unknown, Peter Arculus & Mrs Dorothy Payne. Definitely not – it took 47 years to complete them once, I don’t think I’ll live that long! There is an additional Wainwright guide – The Outlying Fells of Lakeland. These are lower fells outside the main ranges and seem an ideal object for my retirement years. Oh, and the name of my final fell? It is one which I had been reserving for some years as a planned final ascent, just from the fell’s name – Great End!

P. R. Ansell Memorial Plaque Raymond (Swotty) Ansell was my form master in Shell A in 1970, the year of my first Wainwrights. He was an inspiring maths teacher, who instilled a love of maths into me and for whom I had a great respect and affection. He was also a keen fell walker and I remember that he came on my second Hammarbank trip in 1972. Sadly he died later that year, but the School commissioned a memorial stone which was erected in the Lakes. In the 1976 School Patterdale trip, we visited the stone and I took the picture reproduced here (apologies for poor quality – it is a scan of a 40-year-old print).

The plaque is situated on the lower slopes of the fell called Barrow and in recent The P R Ansell Memorial Plaque years I have tried twice to locate it again, but only having a fairly vague idea of its location from the 1976 visit. So far, I have had no luck. I have managed to find some references to it in old editions of the Silhillian. In the 1973 edition there is an article on the unveiling of the stone and in the 1997 edition, to mark BOARDERS’ REUNION PRA’s centenary, another 36 article, complete with a See page 55 for details grid reference, which shows that I was at least looking in the right area. I don’t The Wainwrights know whether the plaque is still there or has been removed (I know that the National Parks Authorities frown on these memorials now). If anyone else has any definite information as to whether the stone is still in place, I would be interested to know, before I try another fruitless search.

A final last long shot – if anyone (perhaps at the School) has any archive material about the Hammarbank trips, particular from 1970, 1972 and 1973 (I have diary records of the later visits), with groups & schedules of walks, I would be most grateful for any information. Peter Shepherd (Fetherston,1968-75) The unveiling of the Ansell Memorial Plaque by his sister, Mrs Dorothy Payne,on Sunday 24th June 1973. From left to right: Bruce McGowan, Denis Tomlin, John Jammes (?), Roger Flood, Mrs Tomlin, Mrs Unknown, Peter Arculus & Mrs Dorothy Payne.

BOARDERS’ REUNION See page 55 for details 37 As a lover of quality British beer and a member of CAMRA for many years, I am familiar with York Brewery, and have enjoyed some of its products, including Yorkshire Terrier bitter. Until very recently, I was unaware that it was the baby of Tony Thomson (School House, 1961-66) nor that he is an Old Silhillian. After being made redundant as a regional director of Little Chef, Tony decided that what he wanted to do was set up a new brewery. And not just anywhere, he wanted

P*** up in a Brewery a brewery within the city walls of York, the first brewery in the city for over 40 years. Within a year, in 1996, he and his business partner Tony Smith had made that a reality. Not only that, but from the start it was intended that it would be a “show brewery”, with purpose-built viewing gallery, bar and shop. Don’t forget that was quite early on in the “microbrewery” phenomenon, and there were nowhere near as many breweries, or brews on offer, as there are today. This book is the story of how that was achieved with second-hand kit and a shoestring budget. It was built as a 20-barrel plant – that is 720 gallons in each brew. From the initial staff of three, including Head Brewer Andrew Whalley, it had increased to six before opening. Within 12 months they had customers across England and southern Scotland and were employing 14 staff. Frustrated by the inability to sell their beer in York pubs, which were controlled by large pub companies, Tony decided there was only one way to go. Within a few years they had expanded into pub ownership by leasing and converting a former solicitors’ office. The Last Drop Inn was a joint venture with Castle Rock Brewery of Nottingham, owned by the redoubtable Chris Holmes. Tony is obviously a guy who enjoys life, and has a very distinctive way of dealing with people. He clearly sees a great deal of humour in everyday situations, and refuses to be put off by less enlightened people. The book is written in a light-hearted way with plenty of amusing anecdotes but also includes opinions on the brewing industry, licensing, the infamous “Beer Orders” of 1988, pub companies, supermarket chains, how pubs operate and the apparent incompetence of some publicans. No doubt many readers will agree with at least some of these. He is also an observer of people and their idiosyncrasies, many of whom are described herein. I found it a riveting and entertaining read. Highly recommended. Now, where can I find a pint of Yorkshire Terrier? P*** UP IN A BREWERY, Tony Thompson Scratching Shed Publishing, Leeds 2017 ISBN 978-0993 510527 £13.99 38 Reg Instone (School House and Jago, 1967-74) Jeffrey W. Babb (Fetherston 1937-41) News & Memories from Former Pupils On Saturday 19 November 2016 I conducted a final concert, organised and performed as a reunion by my former pupils to honour my 90th birthday. The orchestra included players from: The National Orchestra of Wales; The CBSO; The Hallé; The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra and The BBC Symphony Orchestra. It had all began at Solihull School when, at the age of thirteen, I had conducted the School Orchestra’s contribution to the School Concert. A rich harvest has been gathered from that seed sown on that March evening in 1939. At an interview in spring 1937, a brilliant sunny Monday morning sitting in two comfortable canvas chairs on the lawn outside what used to be the Main Hall. The Headmaster, Mr. Thompson, enquired about my career intentions and seemed a little amused with my plans to become a conductor. I cannot emphasise adequately the huge extent of my debt to the school and for that opportunity. Monday afternoons were devoted to Cadet Corps training, from which I opted out. Instead I attended instrumental classes. I cannot remember how it was that I came to conduct those pupils as the School Orchestra at that School Concert. In the second half the School Choir sang Act I of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado. I recall that one of the soloists was an Orrett, son of the Headmaster of Sharman’s Cross Elementary School. It could have been JRD Orrett, listed as OSA President in 1986. I had been a chorister at St Alphege Church since 1934 where my musical interest was sparked and its education initiated. I did not enjoy the benefit of private music lessons and still am a self-taught pianist, organist and harpsichord player. I remember little else of my four and a half years at school. The only fellow I recall is Brian Coghlan (Jago, 1937-43) (see obituaries - page 56). I learned so much from Mr. Easterling’s lessons which were devoted to the analysis of sonata and other musical forms. These were illustrated on the piano and were way above most boys in the class. I remember a severe and justified rebuke when, quite involuntarily, I sniggered at an answer to a question. It is vividly clear in my mind still – that was not the sort on person I wanted to be. Lessons in foreign languages were conducted in English without the opportunity to converse in them. History lessons were spent making notes from chapters read during the lessons and from the blackboard. It was just a collection of factual knowledge without any sense of history at all. I remember a Maths lesson, last period on a Friday morning, when Bertie Peake left us to our own devices at noon to travel to London on his motorcycle and sidecar to attend the “Jupiter Society’ and much later being thrilled by the fulfillment ofsuch commitment when his definitive study of the planet was published. I left school in February 1941 because the Germans had bombed the place wheremy father worked to smithereens and he found alternative employment in London. I attended Watford Boys Grammar School for another four and a half years and found its orchestra without a conductor. I adapted the scoring of the first movement of Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony to suit the available instrumental faces and composed incidental music for a school production of ‘Macbeth’ with Terry Scott in the title role. Some dozen years later I was fortunate in being able to attend Sir Adrian Boult’s conducting classes and to receive individual tuition from Ernest Reed at the Royal Academy. Subsequently I was mentored by Leo Quayle at the Sadlers Wells Opera and by Sidney Watson at Christ Church Oxford. During the following years, especially the 26 year period as Head of the 39 Strategy is key when maximising potential and securing the best value for your land Working with Rosconn Strategic Land, you can be assured that we will always know the best move to make

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Rosconn Strategic Land Limited Rosconn House, 1 Grove Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6PE 41 T: 01789 868211 E: [email protected] Part of the Rosconn Group www.rosconngroup.com Music Department of an LEA grammar school in Grimsby, I found my involvement with youth music at school and with youth orchestras I directed for thirty two years far more rewarding than the professional engagements I was able to accept as they came along, the last in 2006. Besides conducting and teaching, I served as Secretary of the National Association of Youth Orchestras for 15 years; a member of the executive committee of the UK Council for Music Education and training for twenty-one years and the Standing Conference for Amateur Music, subsequently to become the Amateur Music Association. The President of the Federal republic of Germany presented me with his country’s Order of Merit for contributions to the music making among the young people of our two nations. Such accomplishments would have been utterly impossible without the great love, support and tolerance of a very dear wife who died five years ago last April, two days after our sixty- sixth wedding anniversary. Also our seven surviving children, eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, the eldest of whom is twenty. It is impossible to account fully for the great extent of this wonderful and happy gift. And what next? An inspirational History teacher at Watford introduced me to Philosophy and upon my return from war service in Burma I read Philosophy at Oxford. Since 1992 I started gathering together my thoughts about the matters which had determined my approach to teaching and the performance of music, especially in relation to young people. News & Memories from Former Pupils Former & Memories from News I see Art as a fundamental means of communication between people. It expresses thought and feeling to each other about personal reactions to their situations, a necessary and vital means having nothing to do with providing entertainment. I hope to finish a third book before my end and that a granddaughter working in the profession will be able to see everything of value through the process as some record of the ideas motivating my whole life, which I regard as of crucial importance. Lester Smith (Fetherston, 1948-53) Soon after my 80th birthday the only “old boy” with whom I have contact, Robin Youle (Shenstone, 1948-54), sent me a copy of The Silhillian 2016. This was the first one that I had ever seen. Reading it prompted me to submit a report on my career to date just in case there is still anyone out there who may be interested. I left school shortly after my 17th birthday having scraped together six O levels. The only parts of school life that I had enjoyed and in which I excelled were scouting and rugby. My passion was sailing and at that time this was not available through the school. The school scouts did organise several excellent expeditions to the Norfolk Broads. On leaving I was articled to a central Birmingham firm of auctioneers, surveyors & valuers at a salary of £1 per week for three years. Taking a postal course during this period, at the age of twenty I completed the final examinations leading to full membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. To celebrate I hitched my 14ft Merlin Rocket sailing dinghy to my 1936 Morris 8 two-seater tourer (cost £35) and drove to Devon working (keep only) as a sailing instructor with The Island Cruising Club in Salcombe for the summer. Having been deferred from National Service the inevitable happened and the army called. After 6 months training and commissioned in the Royal Engineers, I was posted to Cyprus where the emergency was still in full spate. The next 18 months were great experience preparing me for life’s future adventures. The most memorable points apart from continuous 42 sunshine were - leading a bridge reconnaissance of the complete island during which we News & Memories from Former Pupils saw some action, captaining the Army & the R.E. sailing teams sailing Fireflies, and of course the parties of the senior officers’ daughters. Returning to my parents’ home in Solihull, I re-joined my old firm as a mortgage valuation surveyor. However I was determined to live by the sea and sail. In 1961 I moved to Exmouth in Devon to open a new estate agency office for two amalgamating local practices. I had no previous experience of residential or commercial agency as this had not formed part of my training when articled! Two years later I simultaneously married and started my own general practice business. This grew rapidly and eventually there were five offices; The Lester Smith Partnership covering East Devon. We lived in Budleigh Salterton and have two sons, Mark & Nicholas, who went to King’s Taunton. Sadly the marriage failed in 1985. Soon after that the banks and building societies went berserk buying estate agency groups in order to reap the benefits of financial service commissions. In early 1987 we were taken over and I became managing director of Bristol & West Property Services (Lester Smith) Ltd. Soon we had 25 offices and 83 staff. Having been self-employed for most of my working life, I could not stand corporate life so in September 1988 at the age of 51 I resigned and retired from the company that I had founded and until then worked very happily over the past 25 years. The dream of a lifetime: I decided to go long distance sailing and immediately arranged to take RYA examinations to become an Ocean Yacht Master. Following dinghy racing, over the years I had owned various cruising boats so had the required experience. In 1989 I took delivery, in Sweden, of a new Hallberg Rassy 352, a heavy-duty exceptionally seaworthy cruising yacht. She appears quite small by today’s standards but not then. I was joined by my new lady, Heidi, who is now my wife and since then we have sailed more than 60,000 miles mainly without crew. After exploring the Atlantic coasts of France & Spain we spent 14 months completing an Atlantic circuit including the Canaries, the Caribbean Islands, Bermuda & the Azores. The next year we circumnavigated England from Dartmouth via the Caledonian Canal, Norway, Denmark, Germany, & Holland. We once sailed to the Azores for a Cruising Club lunch. During 12 years we also owned a Falmouth Sunbeam, a 26ft 1924, ¾ decked vintage wooden sloop which we raced in a keen fleet of identical boats. This was restricting our cruising time so in 2001 we sailed via Gibraltar to the South of France and kept the Hallberg Rassy in Le Lavandou, mainly cruising to Corsica & the Italian islands. In 2011 we decided to sail to Croatia and based in Dubrovnik enjoyed three seasons in the Adriatic. Regretfully these boats are now sold but we continue to enjoy local cruising with a motorboat in Mylor, Cornwall, where we live in the house that we built 20 years ago when we moved from Devon. Solihull School was a long time ago and I didn’t enjoy it very much, probably because I failed to make full use of the opportunities offered. However I must give the School credit and sincere thanks for providing the platform that led to a successful professional career and an active and happy life. John Mole (Windsor, 1956-63) Last year my novel, The Hero of Negropont , came out. Set in 1788 it is about three British men and a woman shipwrecked on a Greek island ruled by a Turkish pasha. It is a framework novel with tales of passion and delusion over four centuries of Ottoman Greece. One of 43 these tales is based on the journal of Nicola Martoni, an Italian small-town lawyer who travelled to the Holy Land across Greece and Egypt in 1394, a great travel story and a rare insight into a medieval mind in an age of marvels and miracles. I have tried to make amends for fictionalising his life by translating his journal from Latin. Working on it brought back memories of plodding through Caesar’s Gallic Wars with Bill Bale and Bladder Hutchings, alas no longer with us. It did not seem so at the time but their teaching must have been inspirational. John Mole’s other books include the best-selling It’s All Greek To Me! about life in a more recent Greece. See www.johnmole.com for more. The Hero of Negropont 978-0-9557569-3-1 Martoni’s Pilgrimage 978-0-9557569-8-6 In bookshops, Amazon and Kindle Peter ‘Percy’ Bragg (Jago, 1955-64) Our esteemed and irreplaceable Editor and friend, Malcolm, suggested a while ago he was short of copy (I was then, but a recent influx has given me a bumper edition - Ed) so just 13 years after my first submission to The Silhillian since leaving our News & Memories from Former Pupils Former & Memories from News school some 40 years earlier, it is, perhaps, time to help a good pal with a little update to fill some space! Those who know me will be expecting a lengthy missive but will be quickly “disappointed” with this quite modest submission! In those 13 years, some of the major highlights have included getting married nearly 13 years ago (prior to which we’d been practising for 12 years!), my daughter getting married 10 years ago, retiring from fulltime work 7 years ago, moving to Alderminster, just south of Stratford-upon-Avon 4 years ago and becoming a granddad 3 years ago. Life with the lovely Diane remains very busy but it is all voluntary commitments these days including Rotary, village hall committee work and driving a community bus – yes, me driving a 17-seater bus! Given the crazy way I (and many other Old Sil pals, it must be said) drove in those heady pre-breathalyser days, often after playing rugby for the Sils and sinking a few beers, it seems some of those pals can’t believe I could be that same chap! One doesn’t get paid, of course, but I often get a free ticket to private hire events to which I drive which, most notably last year included a trip to the England v South Africa fixture at Twickenham. I had on board a full load of Shipston RFC’s committee and sponsors, all of whom seemed to progressively deteriorate from the first beer they consumed over breakfast in their clubhouse before we had even driven off! For the first Percy with John Wall time in over 50 years of visiting HQ, I left totally sober and remained so throughout! How difficult was that! But enough of me and more of two particular Old Silhillians I have had the pleasure of meeting up with this year. One was John ‘Bricky’ Wall (Pole, 1942-50) and the other, Mike Oakley (Jago, 1953-60). 44 It was in February Diane and I looked in on “Bricky” whilst we were touring New Steve’s Industries Ltd Salt News & Memories from Former Pupils Gritting and Snow Ploughing BEFORE THE TEMPERATURES FALL - GIVE US A CALL! Get your winter plan in place now!

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40 Zealand. He had just 2 years on the staff at our school, the second as my form master, Lower V (3) back in 1960-61. After that short stint, he emigrated to continue his teaching career right through to retirement. Personally, I thought we treated him pretty leniently whilst in his charge so was rather surprised he should take such drastic action to get away from us all! Diane and I stayed with John in his lovely home in Palmerston North, a city some 85 miles north of Wellington. He was the perfect host giving us a full but quite exhausting tour of the city including important locations taking in the All Blacks’ Museum and the location of his croquet club, a sport he remains very good at despite being well into his 9th decade! The tour continued with a visit to Awatapu Co-educational Secondary School, where, as Founding Principal, he had had much to do with starting the school from scratch to open back in 1976 and where he remained until 1989. John was rightly very proud of how his early influences, no doubt fashioned at Solihull School, remain evident to this day for the 700 or so pupils now on the roll. The tour ended in an excellent restaurant downtown with John picking up the tab. If I’d know that earlier, I’d have had a pudding! I guess the 1960-61 form photo John Loynton kindly had enlarged for me to present to ‘Bricky’ along with Solihull School publications including John Loynton’s two splendid books about our school, touched a nerve. So much so, he has decided on one last trip to

News & Memories from Former Pupils Former & Memories from News the UK before he “carks” it, as he put it! It is May next year when we will see him in our midst though, sadly, without his dear wife, Alison who passed away a few years ago. With a personal VIP tour of school lined up and the Over 60s lunch to follow, there are plans to try and get as many as possible of his old class to join him “on parade”! And so to Mike Oakley, known to many as Mick till he ‘upgraded’ on arriving in Carmarthenshire after leaving the Solihull area in 1971 to progress his career in the world of insurance. Subsequently he moved to the East Anglia where he continues to live near

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AMBITION - OPPORTUNITY - COMMUNITY

13 January 2018 SSPA Coffee Morning 19 January 2018 Call My Bluff Wine Tasting 27 January 2018 As New Sale 2 February 2018 Junior School Family Fun Night 9 March 2018 Ladies Supper Speaker Sunny Ormonde (from The Archers) 9 June 2018 SSPA Summer Ball 46 For further information please contact Catherine Casey and Fiona Newby at [email protected] News & Memories from Former Pupils Woodbridge in deepest Suffolk. We have been emailing one another since that first Silhillian submission mentioned earlier during which time he has been especially very active in the world of athletics. Many of you will recall he officiated at the London Olympics and Paralympics in 2012 following which he submitted a splendid article to The Silhillian that same year. He is still involved to this day though it is mainly at local level and even more so with disabled athletes. Woodbridge seems quite remote when living in Warwickshire which meant a get-together had always been seen as a bit of a long shot. Cue that incisive brain of Mike’s – “why don’t we meet halfway?” I’ll bet he was never in Lower V (3)! And so it Mike Oakley came to pass, we met in a pub, where else, near Woburn and it was “just like yesterday”, as they say. Sure, we had a catch up about our family lives – he and wife Sue have celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary and he remains very much the family man with their daughter, Rachel and her family living close by -- but talk quickly turned to those heady days as we remembered so many people and stories of yesteryear. Mike was a good team man then and most especially in the bar afterwards where his prowess for entertaining us from the front, as it were, remains legendary. I have him down to join us one day at the Over 60s lunch when I know many of his old chums, like I was, would be pleased to see him again. I would be delighted to buy any of my old pals a pint in my local, The Bell in Alderminster but please don’t abuse this offer by getting a coach load together so I get stung for 50+ drinks in one hit – I’m a poor pensioner! OK, I haven’t got 50+ old pals, I hear you say, but you get the drift! [email protected] Nicholas J Tyldesley (Pole, 1958- 66) Socrates, La La Land and the Old Silhillians

P E A R I S E N T Ancient Greek pedagogues such as Socrates believed in asking robust questions about V E R A Parents’ Association politics, love and religion to get students to think seriously. They saw this as the core purpose of education. I agree, having had a professional career in education including teaching, AMBITION - OPPORTUNITY - COMMUNITY inspections and consultancy. 13 January 2018 SSPA Coffee Morning It could be instructive to pose some pertinent questions about the OSA in order to provoke some discussion? If we ask the obvious question about the perceived benefits of OSA 19 January 2018 Call My Bluff Wine Tasting membership then the answers are easy for those who continue to live in the borough: 27 January 2018 As New Sale the clubhouse offers a focus for social networking, a possible school for our children, opportunities to offer career mentoring for current pupils... But for those who have moved 2 February 2018 Junior School Family Fun Night away the links are much more tenuous and confined to website information and The 9 March 2018 Ladies Supper Silhillian etc. Speaker Sunny Ormonde (from This raises the much wider question of whether it is a good thing to keep connecting The Archers) ourselves with the past. There are arguments for saying that this nostalgic return is a mistake. We are no longer defined by just our school achievements and the school, like us 9 June 2018 SSPA Summer Ball has moved on, perhaps unrecognisably. Memories are faulty and our vision may be rose- tinted as we seek the certainties of a vanished world. It does seem to be somewhat geeky to For further information please contact Catherine Casey continue to remember the minutiae of school life whilst recognising that yes, there can be 47 those charismatic teachers whose impact on us has been life changing. and Fiona Newby at [email protected] So, should we therefore let the mists of time naturally cloud our thoughts and regard current exam data and rugby scores as irrelevant? Should we reject the assumption that the classroom was pre-eminent in shaping who we are today? Should we support our own children’s schools or those charities helping pupils in difficult areas of the world rather than a prosperous establishment in middle England? The answer may be to simply harbour some pleasant thoughts and leave it at that. The film “La La Land” offers a colourful, optimistic dream-like vision of Tinseltown which we know is not altogether true but we enjoy the storyline. If so, then perhaps we should just have a virtual reality version? What did Solihull School do for me: a life- long passion for the study of history and a life-long aversion to team sports. Graham Hollway (Jago, 1964-69) This motley crew play golf on a regular but not frequent basis. On the left of the picture is Nick Smith with his cap held out hoping for a tip or donation; times have been hard for the poor boy! Next to Nick is Graham Essex, yes that’s what hours and hours of golf does for your looks! Plus

News & Memories from Former Pupils Former & Memories from News he needs a club now to stand up straight without a helper. The ‘portly gentleman’ is Nick Reeve. A former talented cricketer at school back in the late 60s early 70s, Nick’s other talent was hockey. Nick now lives up in Harrogate so is only seen down in the Midlands occasionally when he visits his Mum. Not many of us who were at school in the late 60s can say that! Oh yes I’m the mug with the iPhone camera, Graham Hollway, still working of course, as I got chucked out of school for failing all my O levels, even woodwork! Happy Days! I’m not bitter and twisted, but these 3 normally beat me at golf, they are all good players and a pleasure to play with! Bill (W K R) Payne (Shenstone, 1959-69) Anecdotes from a long lost world Judging one’s schooldays by current social norms is unfair. Walking around with a personal telephone /computer stuck to one’s ear semi permanently or chatting to a friend in Dubai in the lunch break was unheard of fifty years ago. The idea I could get the world’s knowledge from a laptop would have been preposterous. I had Look and Learn and a Newnes encyclopaedia. I started at Solihull in 1959 and left ten years later. That decade passed so slowly. Not a great lot happened in between as far as I was concerned. Most of the teachers remained; they were a fixture. You knew who would be your form master in a few years time. You were prepared for their foibles and reputations. They had their personal trials and tribulations, but I never knew about them. They did not seem to age or grow fat, tell us about getting boozed up or that they had gone off with a waitress from the local pub or had an affair with a teacher from Malvern Hall Girls’ School. 48 Generally, they came into the classroom; we stood up, sat down and listened to the info and copied from the blackboard or did the exercises from the often heavily used textbooks. News & Memories from Former Pupils Looking in the inside cover you could tell who had used the Latin book since after the war. Oh, so and so 1953! The covering game in September. Brown paper on every textbook. My mother was careful with the book covering and had her own technique. Sharp creases and folds. The School was a self-contained unit very much influenced by the nearness to the Second War. Teachers were brigadiers, colonels, RAF officers, majors, captains or other officer rank. If I was taught by a private I would have been most surprised. They had faced the enemy and now faced the likes of me. Most of us still drew Spitfires and Hurricanes in 1960,still thought of Germans as the enemy and the Japs as sadistic torturers. One uncle had his hand mutilated by a grenade and the other uncle had been shot through the arm by the Japs in Burma. We knew about those people. We were getting ready to repel the natives, the Jerries and Japs imminently. You could cheat though it was frowned upon. Conkers baked in the oven or stored in a drawer or soaked in vinegar were frowned upon but who really cared. Individual techniques varied. The two finger approach or the simple whack. Paper, stone and scissors was another way of passing the time the loser getting a two fingered thwack on the inside of the wrist until the blood vessels stood proud above the reddened skin. Painful but a good game. The Chinese burn. Some future sadists had perfected this. You did not want one of their oriental wrist twists. One very odd pastime occurred when I arrived at School. Pilling. On the field above the Chapel pairs of boys faced each other like Sumo wrestlers and crablike tried to attack each others’ private parts with cupped hands. Bizarre to say the least. Just pilling. Half an hour of that and you sat gingerly at your desk. As for tribal loyalty, the house system instilled a real sense of competitiveness. One associated one’s house with the housemaster and I really stereotyped each house. In the Lower school it meant Jago was not much good at sport. Pole tricky, slippery customers. Fetherston were hard opponents. Windsor the new boys. School House fierce competitors. AndShenstone with its black hooped cap the best. Still the best. Solid, hard to beat, reliable. Yes, if I hear the word Shenstone I remember the black rugby shirt and going on to the rugby field with some pride thinking , ”we are going to beat you, no doubt about it.” After all, Stan Wilkes was our junior housemaster and he was a good chap. Striding about with his knapsack, his scruffy moustache over his yellowed teeth, Stan was our man. He would let us listen to the test match in class on his radio in the summer. Then nip off to the Common Room for a fag during lessons and come back with a cough and a throat clearing exercise and carry on. About the only Maths teacher I had time for. Swotty Ansell was far too clever and impatient for me. He told me he was the third best Maths brain in the country! Well, I was several million down that list. He went at the board with his stabby chalk strokes and called me a B.F. I was a B.F at Maths and he reinforced it. Whereas many in class went to his house in Streetsbrook Road for snooker lessons I was left in the crowd. Until one day in about 1963/4 when the annual epidemics of mumps/ chicken pox/scarlet fever/measles had laid low the class and I and some other Maths twerp were still standing. He came up to me and asked me if I would like to take the place of rather 49 clever maths brain number 13 who was ill and come to tea and learn the Joe Davis stance. Nowadays, I would tell him to shove his cue up his hypotenuse but I agreed and spent a very enjoyable time in his front room that had a full sized table with all the equipment. And ,if I remember, I had some strawberries. My opinion of him rose and I improved my Maths. Still a B.F. But in those times, as I have said, the teachers had their ways of instilling order. Ernie Halstead’s canings over the old leather armchair in his study. Small man. Solid arm. Others favoured the clip around the ear. Some teachers could strike hard. Skiving off games without a note a few times caused me several fearful whacks by one teacher. My bottom is still recovering 50 years later. I think the red stripes are still there. Even the Form 1 teacher could whack with her ruler. Her jowls flapping. I can see her now, ”Next time it will be harder.” Oh, really. My parents complained and she kept a wary distance from me. Miss Bradwell, though, was delightful. She was such a suitable prep form teacher. In her class we moved about the room according to our academic position. Cleverest at the back. Thickos at the front. It was my paranoia. I really did not want to leave the back row. Somewhere between Fernie and Rose was my place but that was it. You may think this was a tough place to learn. It was not. It was ordered and we liked that. The teachers were generally benign and whatever physicality they brought to their teaching was par for the course then. We had our weapons too. The pea shooter and plastic flickers. We chewed a small paper pellet and then fired at the friend sitting in front. Got News & Memories from Former Pupils Former & Memories from News him in the neck or face. Toovey‘s dad worked for Bryant and May so he had a ready stash of promotional plastic cards the size of a credit card and these could powerfully flick the pellets. We all liked Rob. He was the international arms dealer. The classroom often looked a like a snowstorm had passed at the end of some lessons. Other anecdotes come to mind. The bogs. The windy stairs to the old Gym. Mr Turnbull’s hymn practice. The “kick me” chairs in Big School. Froggy Hunter, A boutique Introduction Agency Dolp, Bogbrush, Jammy Jammes, Mush, for Posh Totties and Classy Chappies Denis T, Fruity Moore, Noddy H, Harry Single? Successfu Fisher, Neck English, Gordon Heap, Nev l? Selective? Ellis, Harry Cooper, Bill Bale, Cabbage, Wouldn’t you like to be in Acker Bumscratch, Tony Twigger, Terry Exclusive Company? Ford, The Blade, Monty Biggs, Harry Morle, Sodium Sid Arnold, Bob Beach, ‘I have the simplest of tastes – only the Nick Blyth and the rest. Seconds. No best will do’ – Oscar Wilde thank you! The tuckshop. The latter For further details call: needs a chapter in itself. The rush to the tuck shop at break to get a cream 07496 155 570 slice and even a steak and kidney pie. [email protected] Holding the pie upside down as the base was soggy. Squeezing the cream slice. www.exclusivecompanyintroductions.com The jump into the open air swimming Prestigious Social Events pool on a cold summer’s morning. I could jump off a sinking ship. I won’t be 50 One-2-One Introductions the last hanging from the sternpost. (Based in Solihull. Covering the Midlands and surrounding Counties) What encouraged me to write this, well read the book by Griff Rhys Jones “semi detached” News & Memories from Former Pupils and you’ll know why. David Parsonage (Fetherston, 1973-80) “Good afternoon, Worster from the British Embassy”, followed by a handshake. This was the greeting to my colleagues and me when we stepped from our airport minibus outside the Helsinki Hotel in Helsinki, Finland in August 1991 to be met by Paul Worster (Fetherston, left 1980). They looked quite surprised and we went to check in. It was our first day with Nokia Telecommunications and we were in Finland for our initial training, due to last 2 weeks. We were the first British engineers recruited by Nokia, as they had just won some large contracts in the UK, the main one with the company later to be Orange. Paul had heard that Nokia was recruiting and let me know. I was working for GEC-Plessey Telecoms as a software engineer at the time in Poole and looking for something new. It led to me working for over 15 years in mobile telecoms. As it worked out, I ended up working in Helsinki for 3 months. It was a turbulent time with the breakup of the Soviet Union and we saw many changes. I met my now wife Tiina in the first week and we have now been happily married for 21 years. We have worked around Europe and the USA thanks to the Nokia experience and have many happy memories of these times. Now things have come full circle and I am working as an IT Consultant for the Ministry of Justice in London. Recently I met Paul again in a pub in Westminster, and my first words were “Hello, Parsonage from the MoJ”. Amanda Punnett (Windsor, 1979-81) This May 2017 there was a mini reunion for Old Sils in Sydney Australia. Bettina Walker née Lopes (Windsor, 1970-82) and Amanda Punnett née Horton were reunited when Bettina and her family came to visit Amanda and her family. A lovely time of fellowship and fun trips around Sydney and 51 some great sightseeing too! Chris Allen (Windsor, 2000-10) Recently I was given a nudge to share my experiences since leaving the school, back in 2010. So here I am, at 40,000 feet, on the way to New York, writing at 5.00am local time somewhere over the Atlantic, about what I’ve been up to. Six months after finishing in Sixth Form I signed up as a volunteer down at a rural school in South Africa. It was a remote, understaffed boarding school, overpopulated with eager kids curious to learn and express themselves. Predominantly from less fortunate backgrounds, they were direct in their approach to life at school and excelled in making the most of their time inside and outside the classroom. I lived within the school grounds and worked with the students there for 6 months, often admiring their work ethic and bold, optimistic personalities. I formed many friendships at that school I am sincerely grateful for, and whilst being employed as a volunteer teacher there, I feel I was more the student learning. The positive, opportunistic approach of the people I was surrounded by really rubbed off on me and has acted as a reminder on numerous occasions since, that self-confidence and trust in ability is enough to achieve what you aim for. After returning back home, I found myself restless looking for another challenge. The next turned out to be a very different challenge from the previous... trying to live and pay rent

News & Memories from Former Pupils Former & Memories from News in central London. I stayed put in London hopping between restaurant jobs for 2 years searching for a career that would allow me to travel. Travel is to me, the best use of time possible, as it opens the mind to everything else around you. Now maybe luck, or a well-made drink was the key when the offer came across the bar to me one night, but it was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. I joined Emirates airline 3 years ago as a result of that evening at work in the bar... along with a few interviews. I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience as a flight attendant so far, and will surely stay based in Dubai for the foreseeable future. The travelling opportunities are second to none and the diverse nature of the company and the employees alike make it a home for anyone and everyone. It is not a career I ever considered in my school days, but has been tremendously rewarding from the start. Against wiser advice, I opted for a less secure path away from university, which did seem slightly disastrous at the time, but as I was shown by the boys and girls of St Mark’s College in South Africa, there is always a chance, and a chance for you to take it. I am looking forward with excitement, to what lies ahead. Jacqui Martens (Shenstone, 2006-09) As I prepare to leave for a tour to Japan as an extra first violinist for the London Philharmonic Orchestra, I have been reflecting on my musical beginnings. I was lucky enough to attend Solihull School from 2006-2009 with a music scholarship and have been grateful for my time there ever since. A particular highlight of my time at Solihull was performing a solo violin recital when I was in the Fourths. In 2009 I decided to focus even more on my love of music and moved to Manchester to Chetham’s School of Music, a specialist music boarding school. I had a wonderful four years there, which included winning Chandos Young Musician of the Year 2012, and was given an 52 amazing musical education and basis for my future studies. I returned to Solihull School with my string quartet in 2013 to perform a recital in aid of Marie Curie. I was then accepted with a scholarship to News & Memories from Former Pupils study Violin at the Royal College of Music in 2013, from which I have just graduated with a first. Through my time at the Royal College of Music I have had the most incredible and varied musical experiences imaginable. I focus on classical music and that is where my passion lies. Despite that I have found myself doing quite the opposite at times including recording for Pink Floyd’s album at Abbey Road studios and playing solo violin with Deep Purple at a sold out concert in the Royal Albert Hall in 2014. These experiences have been extremely eye opening and I am very happy to have had the opportunity to experience performing the violin in a context that isn’t classical music. In 2016 I was accepted as a member of the European Union Youth Orchestra, and have spent the last two summers touring with them. We rehearse intensively but also have time to interact with other fantastic musicians from all over the EU. In the past two years we have travelled and performed in Berlin, Amsterdam, Bolzano, Warsaw, Ljubljana and Grafenegg in Austria to name but a few. EUYO is one of the best organisations to be a part of because we all share the same love of music and unity, something especially the British members of the orchestra feel at this difficult political time. After working for a year as an extra first violinist in the London Philharmonic Orchestra, I am incredibly excited about the upcoming tour to Japan, which I know will be very special. I am about to begin my Masters studies at the Mozarteum Universität in Salzburg, Austria, and hope that this next adventure will be as exciting as my last few years. Solihull School is never far from memory despite having left nearly a decade ago. My younger brother, Dominic (Shenstone, 2008-16), finished 6th form there a year ago and my mother has recently been appointed head of keyboard. Solihull School is a very special place for us all as a family, and it is where my musical career and love of music really began. Megan Lloyd (Fetherston, 2010-16) During my time at Solihull as a Gap Tutor (following six very happy years as a pupil) I have become a regional ambassador for the Holocaust Educational Trust. This meant that over the summer I was lucky enough to visit Israel on an Ambassador Study Visit. I became a regional ambassador for the trust after participating in their Lessons from Auschwitz project whilst in the Sixth Form at Solihull. I listened to a Holocaust survivor’s story, and then visited the Auschwitz site on a day trip to Poland. As a follow up I organised the painting which now hangs in the foyer of the Bushell Hall, which uses the handprints of 53 hundreds of students and staff in the shape of a Holocaust memorial flame. The purpose of this visit was to gain a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and surrounding topics, so that the ambassadors, such as myself, are better able to embark upon our own educational projects, as well as to better represent the trust. I met the 14 other regional ambassadors for the first time at Luton airport, and our journey began. We were based at the International School for Holocaust studies at Yad Vashem, Jerusalem, where we were involved in an intensive series of workshops and lectures. We learned about Jewish history and culture,

News & Memories from Former Pupils Former & Memories from News the development of the Holocaust, and postwar Jewish life. Yad Vashem’s extensive complex houses a Holocaust museum and a number of memorials. We were privileged to be shown around by Shlomo, an elderly gentleman who had very personal family connections to the Holocaust. A particularly memorable visit was to the Valley of the Communities, which is a labyrinth of light coloured stone, etched with the names of Jewish communities which were destroyed by the Holocaust. Hearing the personal recollections of our guide in the blistering heat was incredibly moving. The indoor Children’s Memorial, which displays photographs of child victims, and reads out their names, was another affecting reminder of why we were on the trip. As well as our studies, we also had the opportunity to see some of Israel’s sights. we had a tour of the Old City of Jerusalem, visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and looking across to the Western Wall and the Temple Mount. It was a surreal experience to be in place which is considered to be so holy by millions of people. We also visited Masada, an ancient desert fortress overlooking the Dead Sea, built by Herod the Great. When in Tel Aviv, we visited the British Ambassador to Israel and had the opportunity to tell him about our work, as well as to ask about the challenges which he faces in a region with many political difficulties of its own. Our visit was during a few days of particularly notable political tension in the country, and we spent a significant amount of time studying and discussing the conflict. I was incredibly grateful to have the chance to learn more about the issues faced by the Palestinians and Israelis in their conflict, and to actually talk to people who were affected. Since returning, with life long friendships formed, I have been delivering a workshop about the Holocaust to the Upper Sixth at Solihull as part of their AsPire Enrichment programme. I hope to communicate the importance of remembering this dark episode in world history, and also to encourage the students to examine issues of prejudice and discrimination today, 54 and whether we have any role to play in tackling these issues. NewsABCDEFGHIJKLM & Memories from Former Pupils AS SCHOOL HAS STOPPED MAKING THEM, IT MUST BE TIME FOR A BOARDERS’ REUNION WHILST THERE’S STILL SOME LEFT! Saturday 30th June 2018 At the School 11.30am Reception in the New Refectory 12.30pm School Lunch 2.00pm Tours of the School & a chance to watch some cricket 4.00pm Boarders’ Tea At the Clubhouse 8.00pm A social evening with buffet and late bar To register your interest please contact Lynn: [email protected] / 0121 703 2963 or see the flyer sent with this magazine. 55 Alan Bradbury (House unknown, 1934-38) We regret to inform you that Alan Bradbury died on 26th March 2015. David Willing MBE (Jago, 1936-40) David, the eldest of four brothers, was born in Moseley on the

Obituaries 25th of May 1922, passed away on the 24th of November 2016, was a devoted husband of his pre-deceased wife Pamela, loving father of two sons, grandfather and great grandfather. David attended School until December 1940 where he wasa most adventurous and energetic spirit. He was a member of the Youth Hostel Association and frequently cycled from his home in Olton to many far reaching places which included climbing mountains in Snowdonia, North Wales and Watchet in Somerset. He was a House Prefect and reached the rank of Sergeant in the OTC and Observer Corps, set up to assist in spotting German aircraft heading to bomb the factories of Birmingham. Upon leaving School he joined the Royal Navy as a Lieutenant RNVR serving on HMS Northern Dawn from 1941 to 1943 escorting Atlantic convoys to and from North America and Newfoundland. His career took him to Kenya to join the United Africa Company in Mombasa, (latterly Unilever), as General Manager (1947 to 1973) taking him to Ghana and Nigeria. He retired to Findhorn on the east coast of Scotland where he had a long and happy life becoming an active and most respected member of the local community reaching the grand old age of 95. Among his many contributions were becoming a regular correspondent to the local newspaper the Forres Gazette, Harbour Master, sailing instructor at Gordonstoun School where he taught the Princes Andrew and Edward; he was also heavily involved in local conservation and served on various other committees. He loved his garden, sailing his Drascombe lugger to many distant shores along the east coast of Scotland and across the Moray Firth to walk in the Culbin Forest. Michael Willing (Jago, 1938-45)

Prof. Brian Coghlan (Jago, 1937-43) Brian was born in Birmingham and attended Solihull School from 1937-43. His extra-curricular interests included drama, sport and music. He always remained grateful to two of his masters, Mr. McKenzie (German and French) and Mr. Ansell (Maths) for furthering his burgeoning interest in classical music. I believe he played the lead one year in the school play The Admirable Crichton, participated in cricket, played Rugby for the school and was also in the swimming team. 56 It being wartime, he was a member of the O.T.C. Obituaries Brian graduated from the University of Birmingham with 1st class honours, having won various awards on the way, was an active member of the University’s drama association and played the lead in German Department plays in three consecutive years before turning to directing. He also established and conducted a German department choir. After graduation, while working for a post-graduate degree, Brian had a lectureship in the Science faculty, teaching Science German. In late 1952 he was appointed to a lectureship in German language and literature and set sail from Tilbury on the ‘Orcades’ in early 1953, having married Sybil the previous day. In Adelaide his career went from strength to strength. His interests were five-fold throughout his life: Languages, literature, history, drama and music. Apart from his regular academic duties, he was soon involved with drama as actor and director, and largely responsible for the erection of a new university theatre. He also coached the university’s Rugby team. At the age of thirty-two, he was appointed to the inaugural Chair of German at the University of New England in Armidale, New South Wales. Three years later, in 1962 he was invited by the University of Adelaide to return to take up the newly established Chair of German. His department won considerable renown. In 1974 he was awarded the Bundesverdienstkreuz Order of Merit by the Federal Republic of Germany. During his career he held various and repeated presidencies of the Goethe Society of South Australia, Theatre Guild, Modern Language Teachers’ Association, Friends of the A.B.C. and of an organisation supporting a school in Kalimpong, India. He was for twenty years President of the Richard Wagner Society of South Australia. Music played a vital part in his life and he gave some lectures on Wagner in the University Conservatorium. Early in his career Brian visited the U.S.A. on a Carnegie scholarship and later divided his sabbatical leaves between England, Germany, Austria, Canada and the U.S.A. Brian retired officially in 1991 when a scholarship was set up in his name, but he continued to give some lectures and supervise post-graduates for another fifteen years. In 2004 his interests took yet another turn when he was approached by a senior member of the university’s medical school staff, Dr Leon Bignold, to help with a translation for publication in English of the work of the German oncologist Dr David Paul von Wansemann. Brian’s contribution far exceeded the mere translation, the collaboration was a very happy one, and two further books ensued, ‘The Eulogies of Dr. Virchow’ and ‘Goethe as Scientist’. Throughout his life Brian retained his affection and respect for Solihull School. He was a life member of the Old Silhillians, had played rugby for the team and edited The Silhillian in 1951-52. He is survived by his wife Sybil and four sons, Adrian, Martin, Justin and Julian. Victor Derek Marshall (Jago 1940-43) Vic won a place at Solihull School in 1938 and left in 1944 to join Tube Investments as a draughtsman. It was there he met his life-partner, Marian: they were married in 1953. While at school Vic played for the Colts rugby team and in later life was an active member of the Old Silhillians Golfing Society and attended the over 60s lunches. Vic left T.I. to join the renowned local architects, Martin Ward and Keeling as an office junior. He worked his way up through the practice and became principal partner in 1968. 57 Martin Ward and Keeling grew in every sense of the word under his leadership. He retired from Practice in 1993 and was succeeded as Principal Partner by his son, Mark (Jago, 1972-81). Vic was a much-respected architect and specialised in the design and construction of hospitals, universities and schools. His buildings can be seen across the Midlands and Obituaries included many of the buildings which formed Solihull Hospital. He was an authority on Hospital design, especially in highly serviced departments and Operating Theatres, and had a reputation as being a hard but fair architect by the Contractors he worked with. Vic’s passion away from architecture was golf. He was concurrently a member at North Warwickshire, Ladbrook Park and Royal St David’s Golf Clubs. Having retired he moved in 1998 to Harlech in North Wales and much enjoyed living in a house he remodelled in a large plot of land with private beach access and a 360 degree panoramic view of beach and mountains. Vic and Marian had two children and two grandchildren. A personal view by John J R Smith (School House, 1947-52) I was very sad to hear earlier this month that Vic passed away on 24th July. I have so many happy memories of him, right back to 1957 when we first met and especially at Ladbrook Park Golf Club. We became golfing partners in 1958 and played together regularly until Vic moved to Wales in 1998. It was the happiest phase of my working life when Vic asked me to take over at MWK as Office Administrator in 1975. Our working relationship was absolutely in concord throughout the whole time to when he retired at 65 in 1993. I will always keep a place in my heart for him and I shall miss him greatly. I last saw him at Marian’s memorial service last September. He was a most warm-hearted, kind and generous gentleman, who will be greatly missed by all who were privileged to have known him. Mark Marshall David Billing (Fetherston, 1937-45) We regret to inform you that the senior Past President, David Billing, passed away at the age of 88. John Ericsson (Pole, 1940-47) John Ericsson, who has died aged 85, was the job architect and leader of the team of architects and designers responsible for Birmingham Central Library, which was described in the Pevsner Architectural Guide to Birmingham as “the first Birmingham building of European importance” built since the early 1900s as well as “the finest example of the Brutalist aesthetic” in the city. Ericsson’s work on the Adrian Boult Hall in the Birmingham School of Music, opened in 1986, included an innovative acoustic design that suited all kinds of ensembles, from solo players to symphony orchestras. His renovation of the Express Buildings in Nottingham earned a Europa Nostra Award in 1983. John Norton Ericsson was born on June 4 1930 and grew up in King’s Norton, Birmingham, where his Swedish 58 father had founded a successful business manufacturing Obituaries mixing machines for bakeries. He studied Architecture at the Leicester and Birmingham Schools of Architecture, during which time he explored the art and architecture of Europe, visiting cities and buildings recovering from the ravages of war, and developing lifelong passions for art and history. Birmingham Central Library After qualifying as an architect in 1954 he joined J Seymour Harris and Partners in Birmingham. Later he became a partner in the John Madin Design Group, which, besides the Central Library, was responsible for many other important post-war buildings in Birmingham. In 1966 he took a Town Planning diploma and was a member of the town planning teams for Corby New Town Expansion and for Dawley New Town, later incorporated into Telford. He spent a year as the head of John Madin’s office in Lausanne, where he worked on a new radio and television centre for Zagreb. Ericsson became a member of the Society of Friends in 1964 and was a Member of the City of London Company of Builders and a Freeman of the City of London. He had a lifelong passion for classical music and was delighted to be commissioned by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra to design a brief for a new concert hall, although the work did not come to fruition. In 1954 he married Dori Shrewsbury, who survives him with their son and two daughters. Excerpts from The Telegraph David Brian Pulley (Pole, 1943-50) We regret to inform you that David Brian Pulley died on 10th April two days after his 86th birthday after a short illness. David had a passion for vintage sports cars and his favourite car was the E Type Jaguar. In his time he had the 1st and 2nd E Types. He retired 10 years ago from the Building Business. David leaves 3 daughters. Geoff Downman (Fetherston, 1944-1951) Geoff Downman was born in South Wales in May 1933, the second of three children, and spent his early years in Cardiff before moving to the Midlands with his parents and elder sister Angela, and brother Chris. The family settled in Olton where Geoff first went to school, moving on to what was then Solihull Grammar School in the autumn of 1944. He adapted quickly to life at Solihull, a conscientious pupil in the classroom and an enthusiastic competitor on the sports field. He was a natural athlete and accepted with enthusiasm the opportunities provided to develop his sporting talents. His Welsh heritage prompted his lifelong passion for rugby football, both as a player and, in later life, a keen critic. He was also an accomplished middle-distance runner, able to compete successfully with his contemporary, M.A. (Michael) Rawson who went on to become European Champion over 800 metres at the European Games in Stockholm 59 in 1958. It was as a cricketer however that Geoff achieved greatest success, established as captain of the school teams at succeeding age levels, and selected to play for the First Xl whilst still young enough to be eligible for selection in the Colts team. He was described by the school cricket coach, George Payne, himself an all-rounder’ and a ‘Test’ player for England during the 1930s, as one of the most talented young players of his generation. Geoff Obituaries played cricket at Club and representative level, became a prominent member of the MCC, and it was a natural progression for him to turn to golf, a game which he was able to enjoy for the remainder of his life. He was a member of the Combined Cadet Force during his years at the School, choosing to join the Naval Section and subsequently known as an enthusiastic volunteer when crew members were needed for holiday sailing expeditions. It was on one such occasion that the mast of the sailing boat on which he was a crew member fouled an electricity cable strung across the River Avon, giving rise to the rumour that the town of Tewkesbury was without power for several hours! He left the School in 1951 and embarked on a business career, becoming articled to a firm of chartered accountants in Birmingham. Inevitably, he found the daily routine of an office the least exciting part of his life to date so chose National Service in the Royal Air Force for the requisite period of two years. He received the Queen’s Commission at the end of his training and achieved the rank of Flying Officer by the time that he was demobilised. Geoff returned to civilian life in Solihull and obtained a post with Esso Petroleum, based initially at the Company’s offices in Edgbaston. His initial contact with his new colleagues required that he attend a local sales conference, during which he would introduce himself to the assembly. It was unfortunate that the Saturday before the due date, playing rugby for the Old Sils, Geoff received a blow to the face, treatment for the injuries requiring the removal of broken teeth and the insertion of several stitches. He expressed misgivings to his father concerning his appearance, and the wisdom of attending the Conference in such a state, only to be told “Don’t even think of being absent, it’s an opportunity to ensure that your face will always be remembered!” Geoff went on to pursue a successful career in the oil industry. His sporting interests were as strong as ever; in the winter months, he became a regular player for Norwich Rugby Club and in the summer, he played cricket for Castle Rising. It was during these years that he met his wife-to-be, Marigold (née West). They married in 1961 and settled in the village of Stoke Holy Cross, but subsequent positions with Esso, requiring a transfer to the Head Office in London, led to Geoff and Marigold moving their home to the village of Westcott, near Dorking. Inevitably, there were changes too in his sporting affiliations; he became an active member of both Dorking Rugby Club and Westcott Cricket Club, and joined Betchworth Park Golf Club where in due course, he served as Club Captain.

In his latter years, he indulged his passion for overseas travel, particularly to the Far East and Australia, in the company of his close friend Frances. He did not enjoy winters in the Northern Hemisphere and, since retirement, it was their custom to spend the months either side of Christmas in the sunshine of South Africa, at their apartment near Durban, on the Indian Ocean. It was there that he died suddenly on the 29th March 2017, survived by Marigold and the family they had raised together - their daughter Jane and her husband 60 Dave, sons Paul, David, and his wife Natalie, and younger daughter Catherine. Obituaries Geoff is remembered with much affection by his family and the many friends he made during a long and eventful life. Tributes were paid at a gathering of family, friends and former colleagues at Betchworth Park Golf Club on Wednesday 31st May 2017. RIP. Ken David (Shenstone, 1944-53) John G. Collier (School House, 1944-52) We regret to inform you that John Collier died in September 2016. Roger Cantlay Cupit (Jago, 1946-57) Roger sadly passed away on Saturday 26th August 2017. Devoted husband of Pat, father to Nicki, Jo and Karen and much adored GP to his seven grandchildren. Roger was a true gentleman possessing great integrity who touched many lives in many ways and this was reflected in the number of family, colleagues and friends who attended the service to celebrate his life held in the School Chapel on Wednesday 13th September. Roger was born in Southampton on September 23rd, 1938, the middle of three children, moving to Dorridge at the age of one where he happily remained for much of his life. He always considered himself very much a ‘Dorridge’ man and enjoyed the village community life. He was a great supporter of village events with the family, or through Round Table and the local amenities such as the Tennis Club, K & D Cricket, the Forest Hotel and the Railway Pub. On one occasion at the time the drink drive law was introduced Roger together with his great friend and neighbour, Graham Creed, using their initiative, acquired a tandem bicycle to provide transport to the local amenities. The stories about their experiences are now very much part of the local folklore. He entered Cedarhurst School at the age of four and in 1948 passed the entrance exam to continue his academic life at Solihull School. He was a proud member of Jago, enjoying both academic studies as well as participating fully in various sporting activities. It is fair to say he excelled with the latter rather than the former. He became Head of House, Captain of the First XV and in his last year he was appointed Head Boy which he often said was a surprise to him, but it is evident the powers that be at the time recognised his undoubted leadership qualities even at this early stage in his life. On leaving school it is true to say his career path was undecided so when an opportunity arose to work for Harrods department store in London he decided to take the opportunity. He returned to the Midlands 18 months later accepting an appointment at Candy & Morris, a local builder’s merchants before moving to Cartwrights, timber merchants in Olton. In 1977 he recognised a market opportunity developing and decided to start his own business called Birmingham Board and he asked David Walker, a close friend, to join 61 him. This business became highly successful through organic growth, acquisition and product development and at their peak activity employed more than 80 people. They were approached and terms agreed with Arnold Laver of Sheffield and the sale of the business was completed in 1995 with Roger taking the decision to retire.

Obituaries Sport was always an integral part of Roger’s life and on leaving Solihull School he decided to join the Rugby Club. His preferred position was scrum half, although his talents allowed him to play in several three-quarter positions. He was appointed 1st XV Captain in 1960 for a two-year term and then President in 1974. He also became President of the OSA in 1982. Dingle Lane and Copt Heath were considered very much part of the social scene and in fact it was at Dingle Lane where Roger was first introduced to Pat his future wife. At the end of his rugby career he decided, along with some other past players, to take up the game of golf and joined the Golfing Society and Olton GC. He was appointed Golfing Society Captain in 1989 and President in 2014. Roger was appointed ‘President for Life’ of the Longhurst Golf Society which was formed in 1976 following a trip to play golf at Oswestry GC. The members in addition to Roger being Graham Creed, John Cooper, David Powell and Bob Young with John Taylor joining a year later. Roger was an enthusiastic but very knowledgeable supporter of sporting events both at home and overseas including cricket, golf (Ryder Cup and Walker Cup), Rugby Tests, Lions Tours, Hong Kong Sevens and horse racing. North Wales was always the favoured family holiday retreat so it was no surprise when in 1972 Roger bought a cottage called Glanaber in Oswestry. However, Aberdovey was always on the radar and in 1992 the opportunity arose to acquire a mobile home, which he always referred to as ‘Honeysuckle Cottage’, which was in a prime location on the golf course. This was subsequently updated and moved to a new position overlooking the 1st tee. Early retirement allowed Roger more time to spend with his family, both in Aberdovey and at home, which was extremely important to him, but it also gave him the opportunity of travelling overseas to see countries and areas of interest. This included Australia, Canada, Barbados, Antigua, South America and the Antarctic. In the words of the family Roger ‘lived life to the full and was always full of life’ but he never lost sight of life’s responsibilities. He was a confidant and a loyal and trusted friend who I am privileged to have known. Bob Young Fred Harris (Jago, 1952-57) Frederick James was born in Bromsgrove on the 25th January 1941, the son of Fred and Edna Harris. Fred senior was the Captain of Birmingham City and one of their finest ever players, and sport was to become a preoccupation and passion for all of Fred junior’s life. He entered School in 1952 as a member of Jago, leaving five years later aged 16, but not before he had made his mark as a talented all round sportsman. At school, and thereafter Rugby, Cricket, Football, Hockey and Golf were all played with total commitment, energy and great enthusiasm, but always with honesty and a sense of fair play. Fred also followed in his father’s footsteps in his choice of profession, qualifying as a chiropodist from the Birmingham College of Chiropody in 1963 and joining his father’s Practice that had been set up in 1948 in the premises on the Warwick Road, Olton. Fred 62 added an extra dimension to his professional services in the form of Physiotherapy, Obituaries specializing in sports injuries. For over 50 years Fred was a Solihull institution, treating a loyal following of patients that included many Old Sils, who received not only expert treatment for their ailments, but could benefit from Fred’s wisdom on football, cricket, golf, Brexit, anything really. Fred was gregarious and genuinely interested in people, and as a man of natural charm put his patients at ease. He was a man of conviction, forthright and candid but compassionate and sincere. Fred was a great family man; he married Diane in the 1960s with whom he had three boys, Nicholas, Richard, Edward of whom he was so proud. So too Christine who he leaves behind after 30 years of happiness, contentment and devotion. Fred’s passion for sport and his interest and achievements could fill many pages, stories about him on the cricket field, football pitch and golf course are legendary. He played club cricket for Blossomfield for 15 years and for the Old Sils as a very good fast bowler and forceful middle order batsman, as well as playing representative matches for Warwickshire Club and Ground, such was his standard. He was a typical grumpy fast bowler, never shy to complain about bad umpiring or poor slip catching. Fred enjoyed a shorter but no less impressive career on the football field. He was apprenticed to Birmingham City F.C. but played mostly semi-pro football for Hinckley Town in the Southern League. An uncompromising and solid defender he dumped a few wingers into the stands. Most notably in an F.A. Cup Second round against Q.P.R. where one of their stars ended up on the cinder track at the White City after he tried to knock the ball past Fred! Fred also played Hockey for 5 years for the Old Sils Veterans and he enjoyed social tennis, badminton and squash. But it was golf that was his main sport and passion until the end of his life. He was a member of Robin Hood Golf Club for 42 years, playing for most of that time off single figures, and he served as Chairman of Green with his typical unique enthusiasm for 4 years, after which he became President of the Club in 2004-5. Fred was an ever present at the Old Sils Golf Society meetings, winning all the major trophies at one time or another. He was one of the great characters of the Golf Society; it is not quite the same without him, an observation noted by many in the months following his passing. Fred Harris was a larger than life character; underneath that somewhat dismissive manner was a kind, loyal most decent man who inspired, encouraged and drew people to him. Old- fashioned values of honesty, duty and responsibility were his watchwords. Fred bore his final illness with great fortitude, optimism and a touch of black comedy, along with dignity and willpower. So many people asked after him, wonderfully summed up by the reception he got when, after weeks of gruelling treatment he attended the Old Sils December Vase lunch and was welcomed back with heart-warming applause and genuine affection. So too the announcement at half time at Birmingham City of Fred’s passing, he would have enjoyed the tribute, but would probably have preferred to give the half time team talk! Our community will never be quite the same without him; a man of Fred’s personality, charisma and stature is irreplaceable. John Loynton Peter Duddy (Jago, 1952-58) 63 We regret to inform you that Peter Duddy has passed away. Geoff Cox (School House, 1952-62) Passed away May 12th after a short and bravely fought illness. Devoted husband of Anthea and father of Julia and David. Geoff, a larger than life character, and always ateam Obituaries player, was a popular member of the Boarding House and School. A keen sportsman he distinguished himself particularly in rugby being in his time a member of the 1st XV, Cock House teams, and in the squad which won the Oxford 7-a-sides for their year. Geoff also excelled at swimming and water polo. His physical presence always boded well for his team’s success – in the 1950s School House members attributed their fitness to the mandatory early morning swim in the unheated leaf strewn open air pool! Amongst these activities, studies did feature at school and following his ‘A’ levels Geoff joined AEI-Birlec as a Student Engineering Apprentice successfully undertaking an Honours degree Sandwich Course at Aston University studying Mechanical and Production Engineering. He later moved to the family business Midland Tank and Ironplate in Birmingham. Here, to his credit, Geoff was the driving force in developing and transforming a traditional engineering company into one with the most up to date machine tools and technology to match; a leader in their field. He was widely respected within the trade for his knowledge, and experience. Outside work Geoff had many interests, playing for the OSA 1st XV as tight head prop with useful bony shoulders to deter opponents, and later went on to help coach mini rugby for a number of years. He hugely enjoyed his involvement in the Scout Parents’ Association, helping with sailing on the summer camps. Over the years yachting featured greatly where as skipper or crew member he joined a regular band of other Old Sils in all weathers for cross channel and Biscay voyages. Geoff was particularly fortunate that in Anthea he had a wife who loved sailing and together they had many happy adventures exploring the Mediterranean and Brittany coasts. In more recent years Geoff was a formidable and regular bridge player, and also a member of Knowle Male Voice Choir. Aside from these activities his family and grandchildren were always his priority for claims on his time. Throughout Geoff presented himself as a forthright personality always keen to be involved in whatever was going on, and he was known for his supply of on the spot solutions whatever the problem. However, to his many friends and family he had a gentle side. He was very generous, loyal and always ready to help others whatever the circumstances. He was fun to be with and will be sadly missed by us all. Michael Walker Sturges Taylor (Shenstone 1953-1962) Sturges Taylor passed away on 13 June 2016. A keen sportsman, with an enthusiasm for hockey (later representing Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire) and cricket in particular, Sturges attended Solihull School in the 1950s and early 1960s where he was well liked 64 for his sense of humour, infectious enthusiasm for all aspects of school life, and his good nature. After leaving school, Sturges became a solicitor, Obituaries specialising in domestic property conveyancing, working in Birmingham – where he met his wife, Judith – and Kettering, before moving on to Oxford, where he spent the majority of his professional career. During his professional career, Sturges’ endearing personality, his honesty and decency, as well as his compassion for others, made him very popular amongst colleagues. He had a great interest in the welfare and lives of those who worked with and for him, and privileged these factors when making decisions in the face of various corporate pressures. Friends found him to be kind, gentle and loyal, as well as generous to a fault; he was a man of great integrity, who had time for everyone. Possessed of a sharp mind and an ability to understand situations quickly, Sturges was quick to offer advice to friends when needed. Sturges maintained a keen interest in sport throughout his life, supporting Wolverhampton Wanderers with some dedication and enjoying cricket and rugby. He also played golf and was a proud member of Frilford Heath golf club near Oxford. In later years, Sturges developed an enthusiasm for walking, completing one trek with a close friend that took him from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay. Several stories come to mind that capture some of Sturges’ defining characteristics. In December 1974, prior to acting as best man at the wedding of another Old Sil, Keith Dennis, Sturges was hit in the face with a hockey ball, losing many of his teeth. Never one to shrink in the face of adversity, Sturges carried out his duties with aplomb, delivering his speech coherently through teeth that had been wired together, his efforts drawing much appreciation and not a little amusement. Sturges is also remembered for his resemblance to at least one famous actor. Sturges’ brother-in-law, Roger, yet another Old Sil, was told before meeting him for the first time that he was ‘a tall chap, with jet black hair’. Naturally, Sturges didn’t let many people forget this comparison – particularly the jet black hair, which – according to Sturges – he kept throughout his life. Sturges married Judith in 1969; he and Judith were therefore very close to celebrating their golden wedding anniversary at the time of his passing. They had three children, Jonathan, Paul and Catherine – of whom Sturges was very proud – and four grandchildren, Abigail, Isla, Freya, and Huw, who was born on 20 July 2016. Sturges was quick to point out that he could not have accomplished all he had done in life without the love and support of Judith, who created such a loving home for him. To Sturges, his family was by far the most important aspect of his life. It is with great regret that his passing is announced; he will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Glen Davies (Fetherston, 1962-69) Glen died from pancreatic cancer on 27th December 2016. He is very much missed by his wife, Maggie, daughter Abbie and his many friends at his second home, Shirley Golf Club. Glen’s sporting interests started at School where he played hockey rugby and cricket. His hockey and rugby careers 65 continued at Leeds University where he studied classics. On his return to Solihull he joined the Old Silhillians Hockey Club and played in the 2 & 3 XI’s for the next ten years. On retiring from that game, Glen took up golf and joined Shirley Golf Club where he was a member for the rest of his life. He was also a member of Mensa. Professionally Glen was a chartered accountant. He qualified at Pannel Kerr Forster and Obituaries became a partner in the Birmingham firm of H.J. Anderson. Later he moved into retail becoming Group Chief Accountant at Foster Brothers Clothing. He later moved into the IT and travel industries. Glen was such a fun person to be with – his glass was always half full, never half empty and right up to the end he was laughing and joking. He was an incorrigible practical joker. A good friend of his said at his funeral that one thing he could guarantee is that those junior members of staff who worked for Glen, throughout the rest of their careers would never come across a boss quite like him anywhere else and that, hopefully, they would come to realise that life is to be enjoyed wherever you are. Mike Bettridge (Shenstone, 1966-70) Carl Hilditch (Jago, 1970-74) Carl was the eldest of 3 brothers. The Hilditch family moved from Whitebrook, near Chepstow, to Tanworth-in-Arden in the 1960s and, following prep school, Carl attended Solihull School. He went on to study A levels at South Warwickshire College in Stratford -upon-Avon. Carl worked as a computer operator firstly for Sunlife Assurance then Jaguar. Carl was an ever-present member at the Old Silhillians’ Rugby Club during the late 1970s and 1980s, where he played predominantly in the 2nd XV, although he made a number of 1st XV appearances for the club during that time. He was a hard, uncompromising competitor who played as Hooker although he was adaptable enough to play as Wing Forward. His style of play earned him the respect of team-mates and opponents alike and indeed, led to him being elected Captain of the 2nd XV. Off the field, Carl was a quiet man who held counsel with his pipe and a pint, but was always ready to explain how the game went, or should have gone! Although he moved away from the area, he made the occasional visits to the club and readily slipped back into the fold. In 1979 he married Caroline. They moved to Redditch where his son William was born in 1982. Carl spent many happy times with William, bringing him up to share interests in rugby, music, art, films and holidays. He loved visiting France, Italy, South West Devon and Scotland, and, as the years passed, taking his faithful canine companion, Micky, with him. In the 90s Carl began working for his brother’s new business venture, Hilditch Auctions. He later relocated to the medieval town of Malmesbury, in Wiltshire, where he spent the past 17 years of his life, and would be seen enjoying the walks around the town and surrounding 66 countryside with Micky. His granddaughter, Bay, was Obituaries born in 2013. He soon became a doting ‘Pop’, enjoying family time as much as possible. Over the past 3 years his health worsened. In February this year he suffered a stroke, from which he recovered. However, a more severe stroke took him from us on Saturday 15th July. Carl is remembered as a dry witted, caring and occasionally grumpy friend to many. He is very much loved and missed by his family. Simon ‘Sy’ Smith (Shenstone, 1967 -75) It is with great sadness that I am informing Old Sihillians of the untimely death in a car accident of my younger brother, Simon, at the age of 58. Simon followed me to the School, joining in the first year and, bearing a similar Brummie accent to my own and being an avid supporter of Aston Villa, was not the archetypal Solihull School pupil of the 1960s. Those of you who remember Simon from the time will recall his love of watching a hard game of rugby, although he usually watched the play while actually on the pitch and wearing the strip of one of the competing sides. He enjoyed bending the rules whenever he could, teasing masters mercilessly and famously wearing a cap with the cardboard reinforcement removed from the peak, allowing it to be tucked up; probably creating the first and only Solihull School skullcap and pointing out that the rules may have mandated the wearing of caps, but did not specify that the peak of a cap needed to be rigid. Simon left the School at 16 after ‘O’ Levels, moving to the new Solihull 6th Form College to continue his studies and take his ‘A’ levels - and meet a blonde girl called Amanda, who became a permanent fixture in his life from then on. He set aside his initial desire to study architecture in order to pursue accountancy. As he put it to me at the time “When the economy is booming and companies are growing, they’ll need accountants to set up new businesses and manage their expansion. When there is a depression and companies are closing, they’ll still need accountants to wind them up.” Ever the pragmatist, my brother. He left the College for an accountancy and business law degree at Bangor, and then back to the Midlands to study for his professional exams, working for both Deloittes and Coopers & Lybrand in Birmingham, auditing companies in the manufacturing industry in and around Birmingham and the Black Country, his toils demanding the odd refreshing lunchtime glass of Mann’s brown and Bank’s mild, his sporting exploits including squash, golf and being a PADI open water diver. Having passed his professional exams and now being a Chartered Accountant, he decided that he’d rather have his hands on the levers rather than just check other people’s efforts, so he moved to a financial position with J K Lasers of Rugby, which became Lumonics. After some time there, despite enjoying his job and making life-long friends, career advancement required that he move to Sellotape, rising to become Financial Director and eventually being part of the team that sold the business to a German competitor, all the while somehow also finding time to be a father twice over. From Sellotape he joined Amanda in setting up and running a successful business in the fashion industry, 67 with Mandy providing the marketing and merchandising expertise and Simon managing the numbers. He was doing this right up until he died; relishing the time working on the family business gave him to be with Mandy and their two girls. He lived to see his eldest daughter, Annabel, successfully completing an MSc in biological sciences at Swansea and being accepted for a PhD at York and his youngest daughter, Rachel, start a degree with Obituaries the London College of Fashion. He was immensely proud of his two girls. Simon leaves Mandy, Annie, Rachel and an enormous hole in many lives, as evidenced by the packed memorial celebration in Northamptonshire. Paul Smith (Shenstone 1966-73) Michael Johnson (Fetherston, left 1978) We regret to inform you that Michael passed away 1st March 2017, aged 56 years after bravely fighting a battle with motor neurone disease. Andrew Mort (Shenstone 1978-83) We regret to inform you that Andy died in June 2017. George Birtles (Former Teacher, 1947-56) After studies in Cambridge George went to Solihull School as Assistant Master and deputy House Master aged 21 years. He taught History, English and Religious Education. His wife Brenda remembers seeing the 6’4” George striding through Solihull followed by a trail of small boys, mostly not much more than 5’ high. While still in Solihull, George moved from hands-on teaching into Educational Administration. Subsequently, he became Deputy Chief Education Officer for Edmonton followed by a similar job for the London Borough of Redbridge. George’s vision for Education was far bigger than simply equipping young people to survive and get on in the contemporary world. His interest was in helping young people to become more truly human. He wanted to help them achieve their full potential, not only intellectually but also emotionally and spiritually. George first met his wife Brenda at ‘The Society of Arts’ in Solihull. Their first date was when George invited her to go with him to Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro - a rather suggestive title for a first date! Was this chosen with intent? The stratagem certainly succeeded in that it led to the story of the marriage of George and Brenda at St Alphege‘s Church in Solihull in 1955. Their first home was in Solihull where their first daughter Susan was born. They then moved to Chingford. Katrina was born in the Wanstead Nursing Home. They came to Chigwell when Tudor Close was a new build in 1970. From his early years, George had health problems usually traceable to his heart. In consequence he suffered many operations in hospital. All this he endured humbly without complaint. His own estimate of himself was that his achievements were no more than ‘modest’. When you consider the humble, patient, caring person he became, I think we can confidently claim that Heaven will rate him very differently. Hugh Dibbens John Kesteven (Former Teacher) We regret to inform you that former teacher John Kesteven died in October 2016. John Ditchfield (Former Teacher) 68 John Ditchfield, former Head of Classics, sadly passed away on Friday 18 August 2017. Keith Sach (Teacher, 1970-79) Obituaries In last year’s edition of The Silhillian I only managed to publish a brief obituary for Keith and asked that readers might like to contribute some memories of Keith to this issue. I probably had more to do with Keith than many other pupils in his early days at Solihull. He arrived as a Kineton House Totor whilst I was a boarder, taught me Biology through to A level and, equally as important, one skill that was to help me later in life. On a couple of occasions he was kind enough to give me a lift home at the end of term to my parents’ home, then in Lancashire. I was one of those first intrepid lifesavers who Keith so expertly trained at Solihull. After graduating from Aston University the first job I applied for was as a sports assistant in the University’s Sports Department. One of the qualifications required was lifesaving / teaching lifesaving. Keith, by then Director and Secretary of the Royal Life Saving Association, kindly agreed to be a referee. Needles to say, I got the job! s I bumped into Keith many times over the years and we occasionally corresponded by email. He was a kind and generous man who will be missed by the whole school community. Malcolm Lawrie (Pole, 1968-75) I last saw Keith I believe in 1977. My mother had recently been widowed and she and I decided to go on a cruise. This was to be the first of many both for my mother and myself albeit not necessarily together. The ship chosen was The Canberra sailing from the Southampton to the Mediterranean. The Bay of Biscay was the usual Force 6 or more so my mother was cabin-bound for the early part of the voyage. However, in that time I bumped into Keith who was leading a party from Solihull School. He recognised me immediately (hopefully for the right reasons) as he had tried to teach me biology only a few years before. Those penetrating pale blue eyes were far less daunting as an Old Boy! Almost his first reaction was to invite myself, and my mother, assuming she would be well enough to a private party aboard he had arranged for his group. This was very kind and certainly went some way to my mother’s revival. A private party on The Canberra - such style and much better than the Captain’s welcoming party that was for everyone. Some of the boys remembered me and I was to some extent part of Keith’s school group for the entire cruise. Keith did not need to bother to invite us, but that experience along with all the other benefits ofThe Canberra led to many happy days cruising for my mother despite the trauma that was crossing the Bay of Biscay. Paul Gilbert (Pole, 1966-74) Keith arrived at Solihull School in 1970 with the huge energy, passion for making improvements, and personal qualities that were the hallmarks of his career throughout his life. He was soon a House Tutor in the Boarding House and later, also House Tutor in Upper School Jago, and his activities increased rapidly. There were one or two colleagues who felt that Keith was perhaps a trifle too eager, but that was not the case with Bob Beach who was Keith’s Housemaster in Upper School Jago as well as his Head of Department; in his farewell to Keith in 1979, Bob went on record, saying: “Keith has the ability to make things 69 happen … I shall miss his management of me.” Bob was grateful for Keith’s unquestioning support. The most important of Keith’s achievements was the establishment of the Life Guard Corps, but it must be said that he was not just keen on prestige. In the Boarding House, Keith got busy with menial tasks, such as clearing the shower drain, knowing what to do and doing the work himself. When Keith left, Denis Tomlin, wishing him well, Obituaries assured all colleagues that in future all Silhillians could safely plunge into any pond, lake, or river in Britain, secure in the knowledge that Keith’s Lifesavers were ready, positioned behind every bush and every wall. In fact Denis underestimated Keith, whose career was soon truly international. Soon after Keith’s departure, he masterminded the new Headquarters for the Royal Society at Mountbatten House in Studley, and in the newspapers there appeared the press photo of Keith with his guest of honour, the Queen Mother. So Keith‘s career developed apace, but like the best Old Silhillians, he never forgot the School and regularly returned. Indeed, he came to see Solihull as his home; his parents came to live in Lapworth; and later on Keith lived for some years in Great Packington. The announcement that Keith was to marry Elizabeth was greeted with warm delight. The wedding was at St Alphege and of course it was a splendid occasion, to say the least; it even impressed George Hill, the Chairman of the Governors. This decision was for life, and for Keith, the marriage must reflect that fully. Keith was a lucky man; he not only gained a lovely wife, but a family too: two daughters and a son. Keith and Elizabeth decided to send their son to Solihull School (Jonathan Brierley, Fetherston, 1990-94). Keith and Elizabeth were active in the Parents’ Association and took their turn in the Presidency. Keith took the trouble to come round the School and find out what was needed; it was through this that Matron was provided with the wheelchair she needed, especially on match days, to transport injured players, who could not or should not walk, down to her Surgery. Matron never forgot this kindness; and many others could tell of similar occasions when Keith‘s actions and influence were so valuable, for instance in the Chapel and with the Chapel Choir that meant so much to Keith, over many years. The wise decision was made to appoint Keith to be High Sheriff of Warwickshire, 2013-14. He immediately invited a group of former colleagues to tea in the upstairs Banqueting Hall of his palatial Headquarters in Northgate, Warwick, supplying each guest with an expert historical monograph prepared by Phillip Griffiths. There followed, a few weeks later, the grand opening of the legal year which Keith organised at St Mary’s in Warwick; he arranged for Oliver Walker to bring the Solihull School Chapel Choir, and was rewarded with some of the most exquisite singing that some of us have ever heard. The entire service was dignified, memorable, simply magnificent; Keith at his best. When Keith’s terminal illness was diagnosed, he faced it calmly and courageously, without fuss. He planned a private, family funeral at Great Packington, and arranged a memorial Thanksgiving service to be held at St Mary’s in Warwick. Keith chose the music, and Oliver Walker and the Solihull School Chapel Choir returned to perform Keith ‘s favourite pieces. The church was absolutely packed, of course; and somehow Keith had managed to have four clergymen there to officiate, including two bishops. Keith always did things in great style, and we should feel grateful for the variety of his talents and his long and valuable 70 career. In Memoriam, Keith; rest in peace. Arthur Brooker (Teacher) The Grafton Morrish Golf Association The Sils are proud founder members of and serious competitors in the largest national public school alumni golf competition. The Association was formed in 1963 largely because the other similar event “The Halford Hewitt” formed in the 1920s was only open to the same 64 schools every year with no new entrants being possible. Today all the members of the Halford Hewitt are members of the Grafton plus approximately another one hundred schools. Peter Grafton and Peter Morrish, the founders, lent their name to the competition being a scratch match play event comprising teams of six players men and women playing foursomes (alternate shot). The finals involve 48 schools all of whom have to prequalify via a series of qualifying events around the country – the West Midlands qualifier has always been played at Olton which the school has won on many occasions. Statistically the chances of prequalifying for the finals are about 40% so good golf is required to make it. The venue for the finals has always been Hunstanton and Brancaster in Norfolk, being about eight miles apart. Hunstanton has been the venue for many national and international events over the years. Brancaster, or the Royal West Norfolk Golf Club to give its correct name, is a fine course in unbelievable surroundings connected to the mainland by a mile long road which regularly is flooded by the tides. Other famous courses were considered for the event but the organisers wisely decided to stay in Norfolk after the very successful initial event. Solihull were heavily involved from the very start being one of the 15 founder members. Brian Urry (School House, 1947-54) threw himself into things with great enthusiasm being elected Assistant Secretary holding that position until his death in 1995. Brian’s father Jack was also greatly involved later becoming President of the English Golf Union. At the first finals Solihull presented “The Solihull Salver” being the plate competition trophy which has been played for ever since. Solihull has always stayed close to the running of the event starting with Brian. Peter de Pinna was Secretary of the Association for some 21 years and a very hard act to follow. However last year the Association was very lucky to secure the services of our John Loynton as the new Secretary being more than up to the job. A couple of years before that John Duncombe (Shenstone, 1955-59) accepted the position of Chairman and was therefore instrumental in seeing the Sils had a strangle hold on 1998: David Powell accepts the trophy from Peter Morrish two of the top jobs! The Sils have a great record when competing in the event which has now been going for some 54 years. They can proudly boast of competing in more finals than any other school – to be precise 52 appearances which is amazing in itself. The 71 School has reached the last two eight times and has won the event twice in 1998 and 2008 under the captaincies of David Powell (Fetherston, 1945-52) and Peter Levenger (Fetherston, 1951-62) respectively. The other 6 finals were all very close run affairs none more so than in 1986 when the school lost to Tonbridge in the final match down the 19th in extra time! The School has also done well in 2008: Peter Levenger accepts the trophy the plate competitions winning from Peter Morrish the Solihull Salver 3 times and the Committee Cup 4 times. These are nearly as hard to win as the main trophy. It would be invidious to single out particularly successful members of our teams. The competition lends itself to producing pairs who stay together for a good many years and therefore compete in many matches. Interestingly to date four of our players have competed in over 50 individual

The Grafton Morrish Golf Association The Grafton matches. Mention should be made of the Sils legendary support. Most teams might have a few in support but the Sils have a veritable army of support usually numbering about 20 people. Over the years they have stayed in various hostelries, including the Lifeboat at Thornham for about 20 years. The supporters are hugely enthusiastic and usually well behaved although in the early years some of our competitors might not have agreed with that! The supporters don’t just support but they also have their own golf competition which is fiercely fought out on the day before the tournament starts – they play for the “Norfolking Cup” which happens to be just a base and no cup. Leave the logic to your imagination! An event like the Grafton inevitably produces a lot of anecdotal stuff. Two of many instances come to mind, the first in 1976 when the Sils played Charterhouse (the most prolific winners ever) in the final. By Sunday the teams are pretty tired but that morning Charterhouse flew in not one but two refreshed ex Walker Cup players Peter Benka and Martin Christmas. The Sils might have been entitled to feel somewhat aggrieved but of course they did not show it, only losing narrowly. On another interesting occasion the Sils were playing in the final of the Committee Cup at Brancaster late on Saturday afternoon. It was one match each and the final game wasall square on the 18th. The big problem was that the tide would be over the road in 15 minutes – miss it and you are marooned for 5 hours! The inevitable happened with the hole being halved – what do you do? There were quite a few suggestions but a simple solution prevailed. Everyone climbed in their cars and drove 8 miles down the road to Hunstanton playing sudden death there down the 1st, then back up the 18th, then down the 1st again with a result being achieved on the 18th the second time round. The Grafton (as it is affectionally known) is hugely important to many hundreds of people who have competed in and supported the event over many years and long may it continue. Its motto says it all – ex aemulis amici – friendship out of rivalry. 72 John Duncombe Old Silhillians v Warwickians

This year’s matches against the Old Warwickians were held on 9th September. Like the weather, fine for the morning’s hockey match and pouring down for the afternoon’s rugby game, it was a mixed day with the hockey team losing the Strober Shield game 2-7 at the Silhillians Sports Club and the rugby team winning 17-10 at the school to retain the Coton Cup. Our thanks must go to Alex Henderson (Windsor, 1968-77) and umpires, Jon Cloke (Windsor, 1980-85) and Jim Goldstraw for officiating and the players who, every year, take part in games where no quarter is given and that provide great entertainment. The rugby fixture started in 2010 with the Coton Cup being first played for in 2012. It wasn’t until 2013 that the hockey fixture for the Strober Shield was introduced. In the rugby teh Old Sils lost their opening fixture quite comprehensively, but have won the six subsequent matches, thus Warwick have never held the Coton Cup. Alas, the same cannot be said for the hockey team who have lost all four fixtures against the old enemy. Next year’s fixtures will be played at Warwick School. The date will be advised on the OSA website, our social media and in an e-newsletter nearer the time.

73 Old Silhillians Golfing Society http://osgs.org.uk/ As another successful year for the Society draws to a close, time to Sports reflect on the competitions, matches, the Captain’s Away Day and the Grafton Morrish. The December Vase always attracts a good crowd and 2016 was no exception. Open to all Old Silhillians and not just Society members it’s worth playing if you want to get to know what the Society is about. An excellent score for Jamie Letts (Shenstone, left 1972) with 42 points took the Vase in the annual Stableford competition. John Loynton picked up the David Powell Memorial Trophy for Veterans. Sadly, the New Year brought us the sad news that Fred Harris had passed away. Fred was a great character and always excellent company. He was a very keen, longstanding and highly active member of the Society and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. The AGM held in April included the traditional match between the Captain’s Team and President’s Team for the A G Bragg Cup. The out-going President, Laurence Shiels (Shenstone 1961-67) got the upper hand with his team winning 9-3. Supporters and Players with the Solihull Salver The annual match against the school in early May proved to be extremely competitive one, with the Society just edging it 2½ - 1½. The School was captained by Vicki Brewer (Windsor, 2011- 17) who had become the first recipient of the Hudson Golf Prize awarded at School Speeches in September the previous year. Further matches for both the A and B teams took place during the season. The A team had a mixed bag of results, with the team winning one, halving one and losing two. Thanks to all members who made themselves available to play. Special mention to Bob Young (Pole, 1949-54) who remained undefeated throughout and I would personally like to thank Tim Platt (Fetherston, 1965-73) for helping me maintain our 100% record as a partnership! Under the excellent leadership of Martyn Hurdley (Shenstone, 1969-78), the B team won two and lost two. Thanks to Martyn for doing such a great job in organising the team again this year and to all those who took part. The Wisemans Foursomes held in May was in fact a Greensomes competition this year which proved to be more popular with members. Will Westall (Fetherston, 1988-93) & Barney Dowding (Pole, 1986-95) triumphed with 40 points with James Hetherington (Pole, 1991- 2002) & Louis Meryon (Windsor, 1984-95) taking the best gross. The OSA Challenge Cup and Charles Hill Slaver, open to all members of the Association, took place in June with one of the “youngsters”, Tom Brewer (Windsor, 2006-16) taking the spoils with a net 71. James Hetherington won the Salver with a gross 70 and Julian Hare (Pole, 1962- 71) picked up the Senior Salver with a net 77. The annual AM-AM in July once again proved to be a great success. Superbly organised by Bob Young and becoming more and more popular with members of the society and their guests. 14 teams took part in a multi tee start and suitable refreshments were provided at the halfway house by Bob’s wife Norma (thank you Norma!). Once again the team of Tom Hare (Pole, 1993- 2001), Tom Shiels (Shenstone, 1998-2009), James Clapham (Windsor, 1997-2003) & Max Levenger (Fetherston, 1983-94) triumphed again this year with 94 points. The runners up were the team of Jane Mander, Katy Lyth, Damian Kelly (Windsor, 1981-88) & Jonathan Lee with 90 points. The Captain’s away day in August saw 32 members and guests enjoy a great day at Whittington Heath. The usual prosecco breakfast on the coach got everyone off to a good start and matters 74 got under way with a morning pairs competition. The option of one kick, one throw and a mulligan ensured it wasn’t too competitive although Bob & Paul Young produced a fantastic Sports

Supporters and Players with the Solihull Salver score of 29 points to win. Highlight of the morning, and in fact the day, was the hole in one from Peter Siddall (Windsor 1956-62) at the 4th! Well done Peter! After a quick lunch we were back out for the afternoon AM-AM which was won by John Platt (Fetherston, 1961-67), Bertie Parkes (School House, 1959-69), Ian Jebson & Peter Chalkley with 83 points. Thanks must go to Whittington for their amazing hospitality and to everyone who took part, making it a memorable day for the captain. At the end of August we received the sad news that Roger Cupit had sadly passed away. One of the most respected members of the Society having been Captain in 1989 and President in 2014. A true gentleman, great supporter of the OSA and friend to many of the Old Sils. He will be greatly missed. Following qualification back in May, the school was represented at the Grafton Morrish finals at Hunstanton and Royal West Norfolk (Brancaster) in late September. This year’s trip was definitely a time to remember the late Graham Webb who had supported the team for many years. “Webby” was such a character whose larger than life presence will be sorely missed by everyone. Glasses were raised in his memory and I know he will continue to be in our thoughts. Supported by the massed ranks of “seasoned tourers”, we opened our account with an extremely close match against local rivals Coventry. A win for the pair of Harry Westall and Barney Dowding was cancelled out by a loss for Tom Shiels and Jeremy Stubbings (Shenstone, 1968-76). James Hetherington and Louis Meryon halved their match and therefore had to endure a tense sudden death play-off to decide who went through to the second round. A win at the 2nd extra hole was enough for us to take our place against Ampleforth. Despite another win for Westall and Dowding, we unfortunately didn’t quite repeat the drama of round one and were therefore out of the main competition, losing the match 2-1. The following day we played in the Solihull Salver; a scratch stableford competition for the schools who lost in rounds one and two. We were back to full strength with the arrival of Patrick Skakel (Windsor, 2001-10) partnering Tom Shiels. A field of 28 teams took part with Solihull winning the event with a combined score of 94 points. The pair of Hetherington & Meryon also triumphing in the individual competition with a magnificent 38 points (2 under par). This is only the third time the school has won the Salver and the disappointment of the previous day was 75 forgotten and gave good reason to celebrate with the usual army of supporters! This also meant we qualified for the Committee Bowl, a knockout event for the top four teams in the Salver. Playing against Loughborough at Hunstanton on the final day of competition, we didn’t quite hit the same form and eventually lost 2½ - ½ Sports Nevertheless, huge congratulations to the team on winning the Solihull Salver and thanks to all the supporters for once again making the trip such a special one. Thanks to Olton Golf Club for looking after us so well and to all members of the OSGS committee for their hard work throughout the year. In particular, John Belcher (Shenstone, 1962-70) (Secretary/Treasurer) and Tim Platt (Match Secretary) for their continued support. Jeremy Stubbings (Captain) Hicklin Cup The Hicklin Cup (annual hockey v. rugby golf match) took place in October at a new venue for us, Olton GC. After winning the Cup back last year after two years of Rugby Club victories, SRUFC Captain Jim Roper was fielding a strong team to try and win it back. The hockey boys managed to take a convincing lead in the early matches and the rugby in some of the later ones, but some determined effort did see results being overturned in both directions. All square with 4 matches in and all was reliant on the final match, which was at one point 4 up to the rugby, but on the last hole was swung in the hockey’s favour to give them a 3 – 2 win. Since 2004, the running total is hockey 7, rugby 4 with 2 ties.

Old Silhillians Hockey Club http://www.silshockey.co.uk/ The 2016/17 Season has been another progressive one for the club, with steady progress on the pitch, and important developments off it. The junior section once again saw an influx of new players, supported by the extensive work that the club is carrying out with local schools, most noticeably with Solihull itself. The club was delighted to support the appointment of the club’s men’s 1st Team Coach, and ex-Olympian, Ali Raza as he took on more hours coaching within the school, and continued to strengthen the links between the club and the school. The juniors were not the only part of the club that was progressing nicely. After a few years of steadily improving, the Men’s 4ths were able to mount a serious promotion challenge, and secured second place and promotion. Much of the plaudits go to Captain Dave Higgins and top-scorer Andrew Rush, sadly neither of whom went to the school, but the core of the team was made up of, among others, Alex Willetts (Fetherston, 1993-04), John Harrison (Jago 1968- 75) and Sean Bates (Fetherston, 1976-85). The definite highlight of the year was when Sils thrashed local rivals Olton 10-0. All the other league sides at the club performed strongly, though the Men’s 2nds and Ladies 2nds will both be playing hockey in relatively higher divisions next season due to restructures in the leagues. The Veterans continued to provide a sociable and alternative way for some of the more “experienced” players to get the opportunity to play mid-week, and the Lions provided playing opportunities for those at the other end of the “experience” scale – supporting the development of 11-14 year olds to transition into adult hockey in an enjoyable and structured way. 76 The club was delighted to once again welcome International athletes to the clubhouse. First off, we were very fortunate to welcome Crista Cullen, a triple-Olympian, double-medal Sports winning, and Gold medalist from Rio, to our annual dinner. The inspiration she was able to provide to many of our players will remain with them for years to come – plus a few of our older members will probably not forget the image of this Amazonian six-footer in a little black dress for a while either! The dinner also saw Chairman Stephen Tabb (Windsor, 1986- 96) presented with an Honorary Life membership in recognition Steve Tabb, Jason Dalby and Crista Cullen of his Chairmanship of the club for over 10 years and the strides forward the club has taken in this time. The second International to visit the club was not quite able to compete on the medal fronts, but for the hockey club, was probably more significant. Since the times of Roger Flood (Shenstone,1950-58) the club has not been able to boast a current International hockey player. However, the club is very proud to say that one of its members, Brendan Creed, is a full international. Brendan is the son of former Chairman, Murray Creed. Brendan is a regular visitor to the club, and has played some Summer League, some club friendlies, and even took part in the mixed hockey festival last year – for this end of season visit, Brendan presented the awards at the Junior prize-giving and then spent a long while signing autographs! With Summer approaching, Old Silhillians were featuring on the National stage. After a highly successful season of development for the ladies section, the ladies’ player-coach, Jess Jecketts, won the England Hockey Female Coach of the Year.

All in all, a lot to be proud of within the club, and as the 2017-18 season approaches, the Men are entering a fifth league side for the first time in 15 years and the junior coaching continues to go from strength to strength, particularly with the support of our South African guest coach Etienne Blatt, who having spent last season with the club will return for another year in October. As the club continues to support hockey for all ages, we are also looking forward to entering the National Veterans Championship for the first time as well. If you have an interest in playing, or have children that would be interested in getting involved, then please do not hesitate to get in touch via email [email protected], or visit the Club website www.silshockey.co.uk for more information. Steve Tabb (Windsor, 1986-96) Silhillians Rugby Union Football Club http://www.silhillians.com/ Midlands Intermediate Cup Champions, National Semi-finalist and the retention of the historic ‘Bog Seat’, you could say the 2016-17 season is one which will not be forgotten! With fantastic, free flowing action both on and off the fieldand starting life back in Midlands 2, the squad kicked off just as we had left 77 it 3 years ago, scoring tries and as many as possible. With 120 points posted in just the first two games of the season and the launch of a successful

Sports Intermediate Cup run in early September, the Sils fell to defeat just twice before the New Year. This success continued into 2017 with the triumph of the Bog Seat from Nuneaton Old Ed’s (aggregate score 96-36), shortly followed by the The boys celebrate winning the ‘Bog Seat’ first hay bale party of the season and victory over Rugby Lions in the Midlands Final (26-21) at a packed out Copt Heath. Unfortunately the boys in maroon fell one short of the hallowed turf at rugby HQ, falling to a strong West Leeds (13-24), who went on to be titled National Champions. A memorable season was capped off finish to 2nd in the league, and a try fest away at Dunlop. We say goodbye to our coach of 5 seasons Gareth Taylor who moves on to pastures new as he is replaced by another ex-Moseley teammate Mark Evans. Tim Trace collected the Young Player of the year award whilst Jack Hobbs’ fancy footwork claimed him the top try score and will be missed as he moves down to start a new life in London. Players’ Player was secured by the glue of the pack - Tom Manise. Unfortunately this year the club had to say a very sad goodbye to a Sils legend, Graham Webb, after he passed away in March. A solid force on the field and the first to offer a firm handshake after a match in the bar, he is truly missed by all. Despite a frustrating season with availabilities of players, the Saxons showed much promise and the moulding of future talent for the 1st XV with a number of players making the step up under the leadership of Billy Miles as Captain and Steve Allso as Team Manager. With a mix of Saxons and Colts each weekend it was also going to be difficult, but after a slow start the team went on to a number of impressive victories, none more so than that away at Kenilworth, Camp Hill and Bourneville. 2016-17 was the second season The Silhillians RUFC had its own women’s, ‘The Sirens’, team. After their first season and successful attendance at the annual dinner, the Sirens grew in strength with greater numbers, with over 30 players and confidence on the pitch. The Sirens train every Thursday evening from 7:00pm, and all women interested in trying rugby out are welcome to join them, and for those women who would prefer not to participate in full contact Rugby we also have mixed Touch Rugby sessions on the artificial pitch at the same time. 78 This is becoming increasingly popular with women players. Ollie Beech (Jago, 2001-09) Sports Silhillians Squash & Racketball Club https://www.silhillians.net/Sports-Clubs/Squash The membership numbers have continued to slowly increase in the last two years and it is hoped this trend will continue in the coming years. To help attract new members to participate with squash and racket ball there have been several initiatives including:- • Temporary Membership for a minimum of three months at £20.00 per month. • Restricted Membership in off peak times between 9.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday at £60.00 per year. • Pay and Play at £10.00 a session including a one off £20.00 membership fee. To maintain the improved standards following the Clubhouse refurbishment works two years ago, security locks have been added to the male and female changing room doors. This will be followed next season with the old and failing court lights being replaced with LED fittings. Junior coaching commenced this year run by John Shears, a qualified coach and it is proving particularly popular. This takes place on Saturday afternoons and Tuesday evenings. A junior membership category has been introduced, with an annual fee of £37.00. The juniors are seen here at their match against Solihull Arden. We are also aiming to introduce coaching sessions for racket ball beginners this autumn. Starting with a FREE taster session it will be open to teenagers and adults. Anyone interested in junior squash or racket ball coaching should contact any squash committee member or directly to John Shears on 07583 112 604 or at [email protected] A racket restringing service is offered by Andy Warmington, who will collect and drop off at the Sils. All new members are welcome for both squash or racket ball and if you are interested in joining please contact John Milne, membership secretary on 01564 795063, 07736 110 843 or at [email protected] After many years as secretary Bob Heighway will be retiring from the Committee. All the Committee send him their best wishes for the future, his dedication and attendance at the meetings has been unfailing over the years. Finally I would like to thank the Committee for their support over the last two years and wish the incoming Chairman Phil Davies every success in the coming years. John Standley (Fetherston, 1963-70)) The under 9s team against Solihull Arden

79 We acknowledge with thanks, the support and interest of the following:

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