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THE KING’S SCHOOL IN FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE Issue 02 Spring 2015

2020 Vision Simon Hyde on King’s plans for the future Meet Guy Longworth Sony PlayStation marketing guru Ben Nevis A winter ascent and six Scottish Munros

Peter Moores The coach talks with Ian Wilson Reverend David Railton The inspiration behind the Tomb of The Fighting McKays One Macclesfield family’s poignant story of service and sacrifice KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE

Editor’s welcome From the helm

to feature the school’s responding to the demands pages devoted to reporting our ICT teaching suites and we Centre, Learning Support commemorations of the of the times. It is important, the year’s sporting activities have trialled the use of iPads in and Careers Office to better anniversary of the start of too, that we recognise that the in Illustria, but this year, rather our Junior Department. accommodation. WW1 in this edition, and the media environment of today than focus on extensive reports More immediately obvious It is with considerable major features on the Fighting is very different from what it from what might be called are our new sports facilities satisfaction that I am able to McKays and David Railton was when the former pupils’ the ‘major’ sports, we have at our Cumberland Street site. record the fantastic results hopefully fulfil that pledge. magazine began thirty three chosen to emphasise the range These have delivered new achieved by our students in last There is also a profile of Sony’s years ago. of sporting endeavours that cricket nets, tennis and netball summer’s public examinations. marketing guru Guy Longworth, Illustria is available in King’s pupils engage in these courts, a full-size County- With 54% of all grades at as well as an update from its 92-page entirety via the days. Those who wish to read standard Astro pitch and a A*/A, last year’s Upper Sixth Simon Hyde on pages 14-15 school’s website, so that it more detailed sports reports or three-quarter size Astro pitch, set new records for the school. on the school’s future plans. We is unnecessary to reproduce about extra-curricular activity or in addition to improved coach All twelve pupils holding know how interested former major parts of it here. So academic departments, should and car parking facilities. It conditional offers from Oxford ast year’s first edition of King’s pupils are in this matter and we have chosen just a few of course refer to Illustria online. has been one of the delights and Cambridge secured Speech was well-received in indeed how vital this is to the elements, for the purposes Finally, a short postscript. The L of the new school year to see their places and two-thirds of its new format. We hope you whole future of King’s. stated above. Thus, there are feature on Stuart White last year boys and girls from Juniors students joined Russell Group enjoy the features and articles A word is due about the a couple of features under clearly interested a number of through to Sixth Form using the institutions. Meanwhile, records in this edition, which I feel is sections in this magazine that School News, as well as some readers, who might therefore be area to the full, both during were also broken at GCSE: a even better than the last and traditionally derive directly flavour of the year in sport at interested to learn of Stuart’s latest the school day and for training third of all entries achieved an gives an update on the many from the school’s annual report the school. The school has doings. He has remained in situ and fixtures. The new Astro A* and two-thirds an A*/A. and varied achievements of —now re-titled King’s Illustria. long claimed that it aims at during the repeated and fairly pitches alone have resulted The cultural and sporting life former pupils, as well as the The purpose of them is to give broad participation and a wide chaotic changes of management in a doubling in numbers of of the school has also flourished school. As always, we are former pupils a sense of what range of activities as well as at WBA over the past year, but pupils playing hockey. These and you will find within the keen to get feedback from is currently going on in the high standards in what it offers he has just — in January 2015 facilities complement the pages of this magazine more former pupils, who are invited school, and how the place its pupils, in extra-curricular — bailed out and accepted a netball, tennis and junior cricket information on our incredible to put forward suggestions and is both changing and also activity in general and in position as UK and International facilities at Fence Avenue; drama productions, trips and contributions for future editions. retaining the best elements sport in particular. This is well Scout at Burnley FC. Change is an essential The last two years have seen the refreshed Infant and Junior sporting achievements. You We promised last year of the past, in the way it is reflected in the remarkable 32 Ian Wilson ingredient of life. Growing and some major improvements accommodation, and the will also find an update on our developing as a school means in our infrastructure – some refurbished dining halls on both 2020 Vision - the aspiration being prepared to take on new immediately visible and some sites. More recent leavers might to bring together the school’s CONTENTS challenges, to experiment and less so. Behind the scenes, our also be interested to know that divisions onto a single site 2 Editor’s welcome to take risks. Last September, IT department has completely the ‘temporary’ ATCO building - and the rare and very real we launched a new school overhauled our networks and on Coare Street was removed opportunity that we now have 3 From the helm day for Senior pupils, new infrastructure, launched pupil over the summer, allowing to realize this ambition. curriculums in both the Junior email, site-wide Wi-Fi, updated us to move the Medical Dr Simon Hyde, Headmaster 4 From the Chair and Senior Divisions, a new 4-8 Your News school information management system and King’s Learning 9 The Fighting McKays Habits. The latter is an initiative 10-11 David Railton designed to develop the key learning skills of collaboration, The Fighting McKays page 9 12-13 Guy Longworth reasoning, questioning, 14-15 2020 Vision reflection and resilience. These Learning Habits now 16 School News consciously underpin all we do at King’s and build further on 17-19 School Sport King’s Speech is produced by King’s Director of the excellent strides we have External Relations Caroline Johnson, designer 20 Farewell been making to develop lively Michael Patey-Ford, and editor and former and enquiring minds and to Sixth Form Principal Ian Wilson. We’d love to 21 Supporting King’s nurture ambitious and well- hear your feedback on this issue as well as any 22-23 Events Roundup rounded individuals. suggestions or contributions for the next issue. These developments say Please contact: [email protected] 24 Keep in Contact much about the school’s Rev David Railton page 10 confidence and ambition.

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Peter Moores A stellar achievement Starring in Cambridge Edward Reeves [1965] has been Rebecca Sugden [2009] was awarded England Cricket Coach awarded his PhD in Cosmology from a triple First Class degree in Modern When Peter Moores [1981] was sacked Finally, fondest memory of cricket at Manchester University, at the age of 68. and Medieval Languages with Distinction as England cricket coach, thanks largely King’s? After retiring from his post as Head of in French from Cambridge University, to Kevin Pietersen, in 2009, the bookies I got in the 1st XI young, and can still Maths at The King’s School in Worcester, being the top student in her year. Known would have taken long odds on him remember having the mick taken by the Edward decided that this was how as a ‘starred first’ in Cambridge circles, enjoying a ‘second coming’. But that is older lads when my unbroken voice he would fill his time. He studied part Rebecca completed the course at Murray exactly what happened in April 2014, squealed out appeals! Playing for the time, at home in Worcester, travelling to Edwards College and was top of her year after he had considerable success with school, though, was some of the most Manchester one day a week. in each of her three years, even skipping Lancashire, taking them for example to a enjoyable cricket I ever played. Playing her gap year overseas to accelerate her first county championship pennant since the MCC was always a highlight, as well graduation. After graduation, Becca spent I can report that 2014 was a good year 1934, not to mention being invited to as the Festivals. Post-match debriefs with the summer working in the International for the Association. The membership become one of three founder members Ian Wilson and Mark Harbord were also Amy’s outstanding Summer Schools in Cambridge before has increased, the balance sheet has of the ECB’s Fellowship of Elite Coaches memorable – and playing on the front beginning a Master’s Degree in European increased and our support to the school and also of UK Sport’s elite programme field always felt a privilege. contribution and Comparative Literatures and Cultures, has also increased, with the donation by for world class coaching development. Amy McCulloch [2009] is currently specialising in Nineteenth Century the Association of a new brass plaque. Peter recently responded to some studying Medicine at Leeds. Last Literature. The daughter of Kay and John This commemorates 24 additional King’s questions from King’s Speech: year, she won an award from Leeds Top French prize Former Pupils who lost their lives through University for her charity work in a What have been the highlights for you military action during WW1, WW2 and Romanian orphanage - work begun for Abigail since you were re-appointed? the Boer War. Our thanks go to David Hill, whilst Amy was at King’s. Definitely last summer’s Test Series win Abigail Johnson [2010] has for researching the omission of these brave Amy’s award for her ‘Outstanding over India, after we had been under graduated with a Joint Honours men from the main plaque in the school Contribution’ to volunteering and huge media pressure and had brought degree in French and Japanese from hall. community work was presented to her in several new young players. The last- the University of . She I am pleased that we have agreed to during the university’s annual Celebrate ball win in the final international of the was awarded the university’s top purchase a mobile, all-weather cricket Week by the Vice-Chancellor, Alan summer, a T20 at Edgbaston, was pretty French prize, the Cercle Français, on wicket for the school and am also pleased Langlands, who said: “Celebrate good too. behalf of the School of Humanities to see that the Bursary Fund continues to be Week was humbling and inspiring as the ‘best all-round student’ in the put to good use. What excites you about the year in equal measure. I felt a great sense Department of French Studies. She We have had some very successful ahead? of pride hearing about our students’ was also awarded a scholarship events over the last year, all of which It is an unbelievable year of cricket, what extraordinary achievements in sport by Kobe University in Japan for her have been very well attended. Particular with the World Cup and a home Ashes and volunteering.” At the awards third year as an undergraduate to mention must go to the golf days organised series, as well as others v India, West ceremony, Amy was invited to give a recognise the effort and progress that by Alan McInnes, the Dinner and Indies, New Zealand, Pakistan and finally presentation highlighting her work and she had made whilst studying there. Drinks in the City. The Annual Dinner . Keeping players fit and fresh achievements in Romania. Abigail has just been recruited onto was blessed with the presence of Jean to perform will be a real challenge. a graduate business scheme with Sugden, her father a former King’s pupil Cooper, our special guest representing How do test and one-day cricket differ? publishing specialists Ashley and who went on to study Engineering at the late Alan Cooper, Headmaster and They each have their own unique traits Dumville in . Cambridge and is now a Governor of featured an inspirational speech by Jon and so need a slightly different focus in King’s, Becca wants to have a career Wilkin, St Helens RLFC Captain. Sporting preparation. But the basics remain the in top-flight academia. Becca recently events involving Former Pupils have also same. paid tribute to the team at King’s who first been a great success in the disciplines of inspired her love of languages. She said: rugby, hockey and cricket, with some fine What are your thoughts as the World “Special mention should go to Gill Green, individual performances by our members. Cup approaches? who taught me French during my time I would like to thank my fellow It’s a long tournament, so we need at the Girls’ Division and really helped committee members for their continued to focus on building as a team as inspire a passion for the subject, and Ian support and enthusiasm and Jill Major for it progresses. There are no real Dalgleish, who took the baton from her as her assistance with the FPA. Finally, my expectations on us, given that we are I moved into the Sixth Form. His help and thanks to Caroline Johnson, Michael Patey- very much a new and inexperienced support during the application process Ford and Ian Wilson for putting together side, but we have a real belief that we were invaluable. I would also like to thank this wonderful second edition of King’s can be very competitive. the pastoral team at the Girls’ Division and, Speech. in particular, Jo Beesley for her support.” David Barratt

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South African mining A prince of the silver screen boss returns to King’s Jonathan McKinstry [1978] continues to add to his successful Congratulations portfolio of film and TV credits. His most recent one was as The manager of the world’s second largest production designer for the TV series ‘Penny Dreadful’, which Izzy Bell [2012], at St.Catharine’s College, Cambridge, platinum mining company, Dr. Ian Bratt, starred Timothy Dalton. Jonathan, who now lives in Spain, has has been awarded a Thomas Hobbes Scholarship and a returned to King’s in January to tell current previously worked with such stars as Michael Douglas and Tom Book Prize by the college. students about, “What I learned and what I Hanks. He is shown here on the set of Prince of Persia, a recent Mike Dodd [2010] has recently gained a 1st class did not learn at school.” major film for which he was supervising art director. Masters degree in Chemical Engineering from Manchester Ian attended King’s from 1965 to 1972, University, and is now working with Costain. Older before going up to Cambridge to study brother John-Paul [2001] is currently working as Technical Natural Sciences, subsequently taking his Manager, UK and Ireland, for Firestone. doctorate in Chemistry. He emigrated to South Africa in 1981 and joined the senior Matthew Dunne [2006] has gained a PhD in management team for Impala Platinum. He Biochemistry, jointly from the University of Cork and EMBL, also founded the South African Orienteering Hamburg. He is now embarking on post-doctoral work Association, represented South Africa at in Zurich. Brother Greg [2009], after a degree from Ride of a lifetime Nottingham Trent University, works with Travis Perkins in In June 2014, former pupils and close and Martin’s old school, King’s. Following Northampton, whilst father Steve [1977] is MD of CCL friends Ian Buchanan [1969] and Martin the epic cycle, Ian wrote to King’s to say: Label Ltd., based in Castleford. Samman [1969] undertook a 16-day “Our sincere thanks to the Former Pupils’ Guy Emmett [1997] has left , where challenge, cycling from Land’s End to John Association for their generous donation he taught History, to become Deputy Head (Pastoral) at O’Groats. Ian was diagnosed with bowel to Beating Bowel Cancer. Our blog for Ackworth School. cancer more than 20 years ago and he June 22nd covers our visit to Macclesfield, was keen to do something to raise both including the photo taken outside King’s Dominic Ferdani [2010] has graduated from Warwick money and awareness to mark the 20th (pictured). Given that it was Martin’s first University with a 1st class degree in Chemistry. anniversary of being cancer-free. The pair visit to the town since 1969, the theme for Ashley Hinchcliffe [2008], having obtained a 1st covered more than a thousand miles on the day was nostalgia. The buildings at Voyages of discovery in Architecture from UCL, has joined a top architectural bikes in just 16 days; a journey that Ian the front of the school, from the outside at practice in Hong Kong. is very grateful to be able to make: “Two least, are exactly as they were in 1969, it’s Peter Hollinson [1982], who trained in Hotel and Catering decades ago, I was diagnosed with bowel just a pity we aren’t! We also managed to Institutional Management at Hollings College, Manchester, Ben Marsden [2013] played for a and a secondary liver cancer. But my fit in a visit to Martin’s old home and follow is currently Hotel General Manager on board the cruise Development XI last summer, scoring two centuries against treatment went well and, following surgery his route to school.” liner ‘Caribbean Princess’ (pictured below). He worked Lancashire and . in 1994, I went on to get married and Ian and Martin are hoping to raise at the famous Grosvenor House hotel in London after Richard Riley [1995] has recently been appointed have two children. The fact that I’m here £10,000 for ‘Beating Bowel Cancer.’ If qualifying, and began a career at sea in 1987. And Peter Professor of Medical Statistics at Birmingham University. today, and able to complete this ride, is you would like to donate, please visit their is not the only former pupil earning a living at sea. Phillip He said that he credits much of his success to the absolutely brilliant.” Justgiving page: Gray [1996] was encountered, in the role of Head Waiter, early grounding, excellent teaching, support and Ian, now aged 62 and living in on board the ship ‘Queen Victoria’ on her 2013 ‘World www.justgiving.com/Ian-Martin-LEJOG2014 encouragement in both academic and sporting spheres he Hartford, Cheshire, called in to see his Orienteering in 1983 and later managed Voyage’. Phillip had previously been hotel manager at the received from teachers at King’s. their National team. Mere Golf and Country Club, and now lives in Latvia, Ian said: “I started running at King’s - where he is developing a farm; he also speaks Latvian! Molly Ross [2011] has gained a 1st class degree in coming last in a cross country race, but I History and Ancient History from Nottingham University. wasn’t going to let that defeat me. I have She has been working for King’s – see the article on page Crowning glory now competed on the international stage, 10 – and for Chatsworth House, prior to going travelling Elliot Hanson [2012] run 67 standard marathons and 38 ultra in 2015. marathons. The most important lesson I was crowned RYA Youth Tommy Taylor [2010] has earned a regular place at National Champion last have learned is that you must work hard hooker, following in a long family tradition, for Sale in the year. It was his last year and persevere. This was drilled into me at RU premiership competition. designated as such; after King’s, but as you go through your career finishing 4th, 3rd and 2nd you learn more skills and an important Alex Thomson [2010] played cricket for both previously, he said: “To lesson is never let anyone tell you that you Staffordshire and Cardiff MCCU last season. finish with a first is great, can’t do something.” and a nice way to end Kirsten Wolffsohn (née BATSON) [1989] has recently Ian was talking to students as part of a my UK youth career as a been promoted to become a Consultant Paediatrician for programme of visiting speakers, many of yachtsman.” Neurology at Macclesfield District General Hospital. them former pupils, recollecting their own school lives and talking about their careers.

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Former King’s History teacher, David Hill, and served as recruiting officer BBC Choir of The Year finalists has researched and written the following in and Birkenhead Peter Harrap [1974] piece about the seven fighting McKays of before being sent out again as a Keen-eyed viewers who tuned in to the BBC Singers have been former King’s pupils, all of was a trombone player Macclesfield – a father and his six sons Company Quarter Master Sergeant Choir of The Year competition, held at the whom honed their experience, skill and love of some quality when he – which is one of the most dramatic and with the 16th, Cheshire Bantams Bridgewater Hall in December, may have of choral singing, with me in the BFC and then left King’s, but has since poignant stories of service and sacrifice to Battalion, for the battle of Arras in the spotted four former King’s pupils in the televised in the Foundation Choir. My daughter Anna is expanded his range of emerge from the British military archives of spring of 1917. He was killed by final. They are members of the Northern Spirit one of them, so I have been to many concerts musical roles significantly. the twentieth century. shell fire on 11 May. Yet, as if that Singers, an a cappella choir from Durham, and followed them closely. Though Rosie Jacot He was based in Glasgow was not enough, the two remaining and one of six finalists. To qualify, Northern graduated from Durham before the current for some years after Robert McKay was born in 1850 in daughters, Lily, then Elsie, died in Spirit Singers had already won the title, ‘Adult competition, she was a very significant member study at the Guildhall Gateshead, the son of a postman. Three the great flu epidemic which spread Choir of the Year’ at the Royal Festival Hall in of the choir whilst there: she joined me in in London, including as days after his 18th birthday, he enlisted across Europe at the end of the war. October. The choir features former pupils: Anna cheering them on.’ Principal Trombone, as in the 22nd regiment of foot which, after Beesley, Tom Baston, Alex Frankell and Amy well as Assistant Orchestra 1881, became the Cheshire Regiment. Once hostilities were over, Mrs McKay Jacobsen. Although not acclaimed as overall Manager, with Scottish Throughout the 1870s, his battalion, moved to Stockport, to a smaller winners – this title went to Welsh choir, CF1 Ballet. He then moved to the 2nd, was based in India and at house, knowing that only two of her - a tidal wave of Twitter and other responses the position of orchestra the age of 24 he married Mary Ann twelve children, Frederick and her suggested that Northern Spirit Singers were manager and player with Rockingham, the daughter of an NCO youngest son, Arthur still survived. Fred equally good; please watch the final on BBC the re-formed D’Oyly Carte in the same regiment. Of their first continued his professional career as a iPlayer to form your own opinion! Opera Company until, three children, two daughters and soldier with the Cheshires; Arthur was Jo Beesley, Senior Music Teacher at King’s in 1992, he moved to a son, only Lily survived infancy. In discharged into a business career, while and leader of the Foundation Choir for many Cardiff. Initially orchestra 1880, the family returned to England continuing his links with the Cheshires as years, says: ‘It has been a matter of great manager, he is now Chorus and Robert was based at regimental a territorial. Mrs McKay lived to see both pleasure and pride for me that in the last and Orchestra Director of Jo Beesley with Tom Baston, Alex Frankell and HQ in . A further two daughters Ann McKay, sons marry and to see grandchildren, but four years, five members of Northern Spirit the Welsh National Opera. daughter Anna Beesley at the Bridgewater Hall died in infancy, but they were followed Frederick, Charles, Herbert, Ernest and she died in 1935. into the world by six sons and a further Arthur, served either as professional or daughter. The two youngest were born in territorial soldiers in the Cheshire regiment. When the Second World War began in Macclesfield, after Robert’s promotion to Four of them received their education 1939, Arthur was recalled to the colours The next big thing in classical music? Lieutenant and Quartermaster and transfer at Macclesfield (now and both surviving sons were enrolled to what in 1908 became the 7th battalion, King’s), Arthur as a scholar, and, as into military duties once more. Fred, now Christian Blackshaw’s Schubert recital, held in November at the Wig- based at the Barracks in Crompton Road little boys, they had all learnt their 3Rs well into his fifties, was largely confined more Hall, was sold out. His hugely acclaimed Mozart sonata series in 1895. The youngest daughter, Elsie, at Christchurch School. When the war to recruitment and training but Arthur, 11 concluded in early 2013: Volumes One and Two, of this four, double was born in 1896 and she was to be began, all five were summoned to the years younger, was still considered fit for CD cycle, have already been issued by Wigmore Hall Live. Critics are the last of Robert and Mary Ann’s twelve colours and, in March 1915, Queen active service and was sent to North Africa unanimous in their praise, hailing the ‘landmark’ recording as ‘captivat- children, eight of whom, six boys and two Mary wrote to Mrs McKay, now a widow in 1941. When the Japanese entered ing’ and ‘magical’. The Spectator (29 November) declared that Black- daughters, survived into adulthood. for fourteen years, congratulating her on the war at the end of the year, Arthur was shaw, ‘may indeed be the next big thing.’ Behind these successes, lies a having five sons all serving their country. sent out to the Far East attached to the remarkable story. When the Boer War erupted in 1899, Lancashire Fusiliers. The fall of Singapore After leaving King’s in 1965, Blackshaw studied at the Royal Northern Robert was attached to the Cheshire unit But the war was to take a severe toll on the was followed by the Japanese invasion of College of Music, the Royal of Music and the St Petersburg sent to face the Boers. His eldest surviving remaining members of the family. Herbert, Burma and it was here that Arthur, now a Conservatory. He attracted the attention of his hero, Sir Clifford Curzon son, Walter, joined the regiment in South a professional with the 2nd battalion, was Major, was killed by a sniper’s bullet. and worked closely with him in London. All seemed set for a high-pro- Africa, but within a month he had been the first to die. He was killed in the second file career as a classical pianist. struck down with fever and died in hospital battle of Ypres in May 1915, serving as a The only survivor of both wars, Fred, lived at Springfontein in February 1901. He sergeant. Ernest had risen through the ranks well into his eighties and finally died in But, when his wife died of cancer in 1990, Christian made the decision had celebrated his 18th birthday less before being commissioned as an officer 1972. As Captain Ryalds wrote to Mrs to press pause on his international career, so that he could focus on than two months earlier. Just a month later, in the 7th, the Macclesfield battalion, and McKay following Charles’s death in 1917: bringing up his three young daughters. Robert himself was also struck down with was sent out with them to Gallipoli, landing “Few mothers have sent so many sons to As The Spectator has it, Blackshaw ‘burst back’ on to the concert fever, was hospitalised and then invalided at Suvla Bay in August 1915. He survived the colours and may we say how proud stage about five years ago: the profile describes his playing as having home to Macclesfield in May 1901; he the trauma of the landings, but was killed we were that we numbered in our midst ‘supreme control of dynamics’. A deeply passionate and sensitive per- survived only another four months and by a sniper when leading a working party a member of one of the most heroic and former, this remarkable pianist is celebrated for the incomparable musi- died in September 1901. He was buried on 19 September. Charles, who before patriotic families in England.” cianship of his performances. It is widely acknowledged that Christian with full military honours in Macclesfield the war had been Bandmaster of the 2nd David Hill’s book, The Fighting McKays is combines tremendous emotional depth with great understanding and, in cemetery. battalion, was sent as a reinforcement to the available for a minimum donation of £5, the words of one critic, ‘sheer musicality and humanity’. 1st battalion in France, after its decimation which will help fund the new school War In the run-up to the First World War, all at Mons in the early weeks of the war. He Memorial. Please email your details to Christian is performing at the RNCM Concert Hall on 14 April 2015. Photo ©Herbie Knott five remaining sons of Robert and Mary was invalided out in the spring of 1915 [email protected] For tickets, please see: www.rncm.ac.uk Spring 2015 9 KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE THE REVEREND DAVID RAILTON and The Tomb Of The Unknown Warrior by Molly Ross

it was whilst he was a priest wooden cross in the back coffin of the Unknown Warrior in Folkestone, where he lived garden of his billet. This cross made its way to Westminster with his wife Ruby, that the was inscribed to ‘An Unknown Abbey accompanied by an First World War broke out. British Soldier (of the Black honour guard of 100 holders Like many other members of Watch)’ and Railton reflected of the Victoria Cross. Within a the clergy, he volunteered to some years later on how quiet week of the burial, 1,250,000 serve as an Army chaplain. the evening seemed to him people had visited the grave He was popular among then, when, “even the guns in to pay the troops, described as a seemed to be resting”. The sad their respects. The last lines “good padre who was often little scene gave him the idea of the tomb’s inscription are seen in the trenches” and in that one such ‘unknown warrior’ taken from the Bible: “They any King’s pupils 1916 he was awarded the should be returned to Britain for buried him among the Kings Mwho have visited the Military Cross for rescuing an a funeral and public burial, in because he had done good battlefields of France will injured officer and two other order to pay tribute to the loss toward God and towards remember that one of the most wounded soldiers under heavy of life. On his return to Britain His house” (2 Chronicles moving parts of those trips is fire. After the war, Railton as the Vicar of Margate, Railton 24:16). Poignantly, 45 other realising how many graves are became the vicar at St John’s wrote in 1920 to the Dean of countries have since created a marked for soldiers ‘Known in Margate where, though Westminster, Bishop Herbert tomb for an unknown soldier, unto God’. Every year on full of enthusiasm for his role Ryle, to present his idea to amongst them France, Belgium, Armistice Day, we remember in the community, it became him. The Dean supported Germany, Italy and Russia. In the loss of so many brave apparent that the trauma his idea wholeheartedly and a fitting tribute to the man who young men and women and of the War had impacted approached King . had the idea for this moving we reflect upon how we can him greatly. He suffered The King, however, was not homage to the Fallen, the best honour their sacrifice. frequently from insomnia and convinced and his Private coffin was covered by ‘the The Reverend David Railton, a was increasingly concerned Secretary responded that Padre’s Flag’, the Union Jack padre during the First World by the fate of unemployed a funeral so long after the that Reverend David Railton War and a former King’s pupil, ex-servicemen, once travelling end of the war was belated had used as an altar cloth was so moved by the need to the North of England in the and would, “reopen the war during the war. This flag was to remember these sacrifices guise of an ex-serviceman in wound which time is gradually donated to Westminster Abbey that he came up with the idea search of work, to see how he healing”. Undeterred, the Dean a year later and hangs to this that is now a great part of our would be treated. When the applied to Prime Minister Lloyd day in the Abbey’s St George’s tributes to the Fallen: the Tomb Second World War broke out, George and Field Marshal Sir Chapel, near to the Unknown of the Unknown Warrior in his parish church in Henry Wilson; the idea was Warrior’s final resting place. Westminster Abbey. was destroyed in the Blitz and enthusiastically seized upon David Railton was born in Railton returned to life as a and soon the King assented. In London in 1884, the eldest of military padre, this time serving November of the same year, three children. He was initially with the Royal Air Force. At the body of an unidentified tutored privately at home with the conclusion of the war, he British serviceman was his brother Nathaniel before retired to life in the Scottish selected by Brigadier General joining The King’s School, Highlands, whence his family Wyatt and sent to Britain in then Macclesfield Grammar originated. Tragically, he died a coffin made from oak from School, as a boarder, where in a railway accident at Fort Hampton Court and affixed he is listed as studying William in 1955. with a sixteenth-century sword Mathematics and Greek before It was in 1916 whilst from King George V’s private moving on to Keble College, serving in Armentières, France, collection. On the 11th day of Oxford in 1904. Four years that David Railton came across the 11th month in 1920, the later he was ordained and a grave marked by a small procession accompanying the

10 Spring 2015 KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE PROFILE GUY LONGWORTH Playing for big stakes

ormer King’s pupil Guy at the Marketers That Matter look at games the same way like all great leaders, Guy life, from a diverse set of culture and Fish & Chip FLongworth [1985] is Senior Awards in California. foodies look at food or petrol recognises the importance backgrounds and I had to shops that are unique to the Vice President Marketing heads look at cars. We spent of teamwork: “I’m lucky to learn how to get along with UK; and of course watching for PlayStation and runs the Still in touch with many of a lot of time with gamers work with a great group of all sorts of different people. Manchester City live… I was Global Marketing Leadership his school friends and a researching what they love really smart, passionate, Without question, the ability a season ticket holder and team based in California. Guy committed Manchester City about games and discovered hardworking people who to communicate successfully moved just as we started to joined PlayStation in 2011 fan, Guy has a deep love of some really interesting insights really believe that what we and build strong relationships become great!” and led the global marketing sport and can occasionally about the emotional greatness do makes a big difference, with people, are some of launch of PlayStation 4, the be spotted ‘back home’ in a that they feel when they play bringing joy and excitement the most important skills in Asked what he thinks it takes, fastest-selling games console Fish & Chip shop or enjoying games and then wanted to to millions of people around life and my time at King’s in terms of attitude and skills, in history, which importantly a pint or two with old school throw them a challenge. the world.” certainly helped me develop to make it to the top of the regained market leadership friends. these skills.” business world these days, for PlayStation. “I was not the best student Guy says: “Self-awareness Guy is widely credited with King’s ever had, but I was and openness to seeking After King’s, Guy graduated having been the leading always involved in lots of and acting on feedback, from UMIST with a degree vision behind the PlayStation activities from music to combined with a commitment in Management Sciences Greatness Awaits campaign sports. My passion for sports to lifelong learning are and started his career in in 2013, which led to the continues and many of my vital. Keeping pace with the UK – Procter & Gamble, most successful platform closest friends are kids I met technological change is also Kraft Foods and Kellogg’s launch in PlayStation history when I was 11 or 12 who critical in all aspects of the – before going Stateside. (PlayStation®4). have remained lifelong friends business world.” In terms of His experience spans and whom I see when I’m advice for younger students successful leadership, board This radical campaign That’s where the first line of “More than anything, King’s back in England.” just starting out in their and strategic roles in many changed the face and style the launch ad came from: taught me how to deal with careers, Guy says: “You also Fortune 100 companies, of games marketing for ever; Who are you not to be people. I came to the school “I’ve lived in the States since have to treat other people as Private Equity-backed making it about emotions not great?” in 1977 and King’s was still 2006 and I love it here… you would like to be treated consumer businesses and hardware. Guy says: “We in the state system, albeit as the weather is fantastic and yourself. And in terms of digital start-ups. Last summer, really wanted to make a Passion is something that Guy a selective school based on California has so much to mindset, whether you believe Guy was presented with the deep emotional connection exudes and clearly he is a academic capability. The offer. Inevitably, I miss my you can or you can’t…you ‘Marketer of The Year Award’ with passionate gamers who man who loves his job, but kids came from all walks of family and friends; the pub are right.”

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Editor Ian Wilson caught up with Headmaster Simon Hyde to get the latest on King’s ambitious plans for the future: 2020 VISION

What is the 2020 Vision for King’s? these inconveniences and technology helps inconceivable. But here we are, twenty a new school is considerable. We’re not detail, but I remain optimistic that we have When will you know that the project can The 2020 Vision is the aspiration to bring enormously, but we could certainly achieve years after the establishment of the Girls’ building any school, but a school with a the ingredients we need to bring our plans go ahead? together the school’s divisions onto a single even more on a single site. We would Division and these confident and happy five-hundred-year history and pedigree to to fruition. Our business case is very strong In education we often deal in possibilities site. cut down on duplication and remove the young women feel themselves just as much match. We will have to sell our sites and and, as I have intimated, the educational rather than certainties. My job as a teacher additional cost of operating across a split a part of the King’s family as the boys. borrow a substantial sum. The efficiencies value of a new school is considerable. is to unlock as much potential as I can. Why ‘2020’? site, which we estimate to be in the region What that tells me is that identity to be derived from a single site and As a Head, I don’t think the job is much Any project as ambitious as this requires a Can you tell us anything about the site? of £750,000 per year. This is a significant develops over time. Yes, location is modern, purpose-built buildings are, different. We will do all we can to deliver great deal of planning and preparation. I can’t tell you where it is, not least because potential surplus that King’s could otherwise important, but we make a mistake if we however, substantial and should allow us the best possible future for the school and The Governors decided in 2012 to there are several more stages that are spend on our pupils’ education, our can only see an institution from within the to fund the investment we require, whilst the Governors and I remain committed to explore the possibility of a new site for required before any site can be approved buildings and facilities. We currently have prism of our own experiences. The school’s broadly maintaining current fee levels. sharing as much information as possible the school. We wanted to be as open as for planning. What I can share is the to maintain a large and expensive estate journey over the last five hundred years with all the members of our wider possible about our plans, but there was Can you update us on progress? criteria we used for the site search. We and this has constrained the school’s ability has taken us from the Savage Chapel, via community as we move ahead. also the need to advise pupils, parents We have recently signed an option wanted a site of at least 50 acres, so that to generate the funds we ideally would like School Bank to King Edward Street and I am not a politician, so I can admit that and staff that any changes would lie some agreement on land that will enable us the school has the potential to develop over to invest in pupils, including the school’s then on to Cumberland Street and Fence we don’t have all the answers yet. Of one way ahead. 2020 seemed to work as a to develop a 70-acre site for the new time and so that the space and feel of the bursary programme. Avenue. thing I am certain: we have a rare and timeframe and I liked the metaphor. school. Thanks in part to the involvement school’s current sites can be maintained. The final reason for a new site is the If our generation should be fortunate significant opportunity and it is our duty to of a number of Former Pupils, we have We wanted to retain our connection with Why does King’s need a single site? future: King’s needs the location and space enough to inaugurate the next step in the make as much of it as we can. engaged Savills to take the school through Macclesfield and to ensure that transport A single site is attractive educationally. to develop over our next two hundred years school’s journey, then we can but hope that to planning on each of the sites. The links work well for current and future pupils. Is there anything you’d like from Former Bringing the Foundation together has and, if we get this right, this will be our we shall lay foundations as solid as those Governors have also appointed Pick Pupils? obvious value in enhancing access to the most important legacy. provided by our forebears. Everard, the architects who delivered It’s always good to receive support from school’s facilities. Colleagues currently Do you understand the attachment of How will the vision be paid for? Grammar School in 2008, Former Pupils and some have already have to cross-site to be able to teach many to our current sites? The opportunity to develop the Cumberland to design the new school and we are been willing to share their expertise and in different divisions and that means As a Former Pupil myself, I not only Street and Fence Avenue sites has currently working through a variety of connections with us as we move forward departments are split and teachers are not understand, but share the attachment. potentially transformed the school’s funding strategies. with our plans. If people would like to help always immediately available to pupils. That said, whilst being respectful of their finances and allows us to contemplate a Of course, there’s still a long way to or just offer a view, then we’d be delighted Of course, we’ve got used to overcoming heritage, schools have to be focused on move on this scale. Even so, the cost of go and the devil, as always, will be in the to hear from them. They can either email or the future. write to me at school. When I was at school, the idea of girls in blue emerging from Fence Avenue would have been almost 1856 2020? When the Grammar The potential move School outgrew the from Cumberland premises on King Street and Fence Edward Street, the Avenue will enable governors purchased King’s to face the Westbrook House challenges of the and the Westbrook 21st century with Estate in order to renewed vigour. build a new school on Cumberland Street, which opened in 1856.

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1502 1552 1748 1844 1911 1993 The Savage Chapel This building, which stood The governors purchased To complement the The eventual merger of The major development of Macclesfield Parish on School Bank at the the house where Bonnie academic curriculum of the Grammar School of the 1990s was the Church housed the rear of the parish church, Prince Charlie had stayed the Grammar School, and the Modern School purchase of the Fence school in its early is believed to have been in 1745 and moved the a Modern School was provided funds for the Avenue site, formerly years. The scholars the original Grammar school there in 1748. The erected on the corner of new main building Macclesfield High were probably taught School of 1552, erected street was later renamed Bridge Street and Great in 1911 which School for Girls, for the in the porch and the in accordance with the King Edward Street. King Street in1844 in incorporated the former establishment of a Girls’ master lived in two Charter of Edward VI. order to provide a plain gymnasium. Division and Infant and rooms upstairs. and practical training. Junior Division.

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Pirates of Penzance German Exchange Athletics Basketball fantastic results at all levels in the national The sport flourished at the school this year, Girls’ competitive basketball arrived at championships, which were held this year King’s actors revelled in the colour and of lusty pirates, Keystone cop policemen In September, 24 teenagers from the with wide involvement by boys, girls and King’s for the first time this year, with the in Manchester, with 5 first and two other comedy of the Gilbert & Sullivan classic led by the redoubtable Henry Reavey Gymnasium Salvatorkolleg in Bad juniors. Indeed, one of the year’s highlights formation of a sixth-form team. The U16 podium places in a competition which The Pirates of Penzance as they revived and the elegant decoration of the military Wurzach stayed with King’s families. The was the Junior Division’s annual Sports Day, and U17 boys’ sides both had mixed attracted over 3,500 competitors. They an age-old British tradition. Gilbert and daughters, the production was a successful exchange was the brain child of Head when, on a warm, sunny June day, every seasons in terms of results – they were often went on to finish an amazing 2nd overall Sullivan are quintessentially English, but riot of colour, song and comedy, with of German, Jessica Houghton, and Karin pupil in the Division represented his or her out-sized by opponents, which tends to be in the World Championships, which were as King’s Head of Drama, Donald Forbes, wonderful musical accompaniment from Heine, a teacher from Germany, (who met House in a wonderful festival of athletic quite important in the sport! held in Florida, (pictured below). argued: “They present a tough challenge the orchestra, gloriously directed by Jane former King’s Deputy Head, David Pook, events. Medals were won at a higher level to create a sense of joyfulness, frivolity and Barratt. as the result of an exchange programme too, with both U10 and U11 boys and Biathlon sheer silliness, but to produce it with style, If you recognise your name from this 40 years ago). The students visited Eyam, girls gaining reward at the Macclesfield Three girls qualified for the pace and drama.” 1976 programme, please get in touch with Chester, the Beatles Museum and the and District and the AJIS regional national finals, where they Headmaster Dr Simon Hyde was in your memories of the production: Museum of Science and Industry. King’s championships. Senior teams also gained performed very respectably the school’s previous Gilbert and Sullivan [email protected] students made a return visit to Germany lots of medals at both District and County in the competition, which production in 1976, but said: “Our during October half-term, when they spent championships. Sophie Quinn probably was held at the Queen show was superb and something I will time in the class room, as well as visiting achieved the headline results, finishing Elizabeth Olympic Park in remember all my life, but it didn’t have various other places of interest. 2nd in the north-west in the Senior Girls’ London. this production’s sheer audacity and On reading about the Exchange, heptathlon event, and then 13th nationally, dramatic flair.” former pupil Ian Gordon [1959] wrote as well as representing Cheshire in the Cheerleading At the heart of the action was to Jessica Houghton: “As an old boy … long jump at the national championships. As has now come to be George Walker as the modern Major I know the benefits of exchanges from customary, King’s achieved General, a bombastic buffoon whose experience, having first visited Eckernforde very entrance created a stir in packed on an exchange visit.” Ian went on to have audiences. His foil was the romantic a career teaching German. hero Tom Lynch as Frederic, the love- Sports Tours to South Africa and Barbados lorn, would-be hero who unfortunately has to serve what amounts to a 63- Last summer, 52 boys, 5 staff and a also coached sport to age encounters. King’s won two out of their year military apprenticeship before Sports Therapist experienced an African children through the United Through Sport three hockey fixtures and all three of the he feels he can marry the sweetest Adventure like no other, during a two and Charity. The boys played well, given the netball games played against opposition of sweethearts Mabel, exquisitely a half week rugby tour of South Africa. heat, altitude and rock-hard ground. The teams of the same age, but were out- delivered by Eleanor McKenna. Pupils played 12 games across the country, final statistics show how brutal and bruising gunned in the school, club and regional Frederic’s ‘discovery’ of younger starting in Pretoria and Johannesburg, the rugby really was – P12, W5, L6, D1. fixtures against older girls. women, is much to the chagrin flying to Port Elizabeth and then along Points For 185 and Points Against 168. Both touring parties were fabulous and disappointment of his ageing the Garden Route, before finishing in A couple of months later, and it was ambassadors for King’s and for nursemaid Ruth, a glowing, musically Cape Town. The boys played some of the time for the Girls’ Division to despatch 26 Macclesfield, and all the pupils benefited dramatic performance of great Ben Nevis ascent biggest rugby playing schools in South of its finest netball and hockey players to from their adventures, learning not just maturity from Juliette Gorb, who Africa, including Paul Roos Gymnasium the West Indies for a 12-day sports tour. new skills on the pitches, but experiencing In April, a mini bus full of ice axes, wants him all to herself. With a band and Jeppe High School for Boys. In stark The girls in the U15 and U17 netball life in local schools, witnessing the pride crampons, warm hats and climbing gear contrast, one of the games was against a teams and U17 hockey side felt the heat and passion of both South Africa’s and headed north to the Cairngorms. Over 5 deprived township side called the Leopards on the sun-drenched island of Barbados Barbados’s young people. days, the team completed six of the Scottish and as part of the experience the boys and experienced several hard fought Munros and experienced blisters, swollen ankles, challenging weather conditions, teamwork and friendship. The final day saw everyone head out to Ben Nevis (front cover picture). After a 3 hour plod the team climbed No.4 Gully, with ice axes and crampons, up to the summit. The descent was considered by many to be the highlight of the expedition: Red Burn is a 300m long snow filled gully; in the right conditions the total descent can be achieved in less than 10 minutes with the correct ‘epic bum sliding’ technique. It was a thousand times more thrilling and hilarious than a theme park!

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Cricket King’s side; the U15s won the prestigious exhibitions of spectacular schoolboy rugby Sailing Not too much had been expected when a Rydal Penrhos tournament; the U14s were at its best. We actually entered the final The sport continues to develop in strength fairly inexperienced 1st XI began in mid- a valiant 2nd at both district and county quarter of each game ahead, even though at King’s, with activity during games April, but 21 games, and 13 wins, later, levels; the U13s were 3rd in Macclesfield we were not quite able to hold out for what lessons as well as on Saturday mornings at a team had developed together whose and 2nd at Rydal; the U12s were crowned would have been quite outstanding wins Redesmere. We have a superb range of performances very much underlined the Cheshire champions; and the U11s were against top ‘scholarship’ rugby schools. boats available to pupils, and significant strength of the sport at the school. With district champions. With new outdoor Over the 16 fixtures, the side recorded numbers have gained RYA and other the U13 side victorious in their Cheshire courts and a Barbados tour on the horizon, an average ‘score’ of 28 – 11 per match, qualifications during the year. Adam Russ is cup competition , and the U14s defeated the sport at King’s is definitely on the up! and at its best attacked with purpose and the latest King’s rising star, following Elliott finalists in theirs, there would seem to be intensity, able to get key runners beyond Hanson, who has now moved on to higher every reason to look forward to continuing Rounders the gain line, so allowing a well-paced things! success in the future too. Although poor weather caused a number offload game to flourish. There was also It is not easy to pick out specific of fixtures to be cancelled, there was huge a good mix of older and less experienced Swimming highlights from the season, though a tense participation in rounders from U11 to U15 players in the squad, which augurs well for The sport at King’s is restricted to the Junior victory by just 6 runs over a very successful levels, with great promise being shown by seasons ahead. This promise of continuing Division, where, as usual, the annual Bolton, equally tense defeats by just 8 players at the younger age-groups, and success is reinforced when one looks at House gala was a very enjoyable event. runs to Sedbergh and by 29 runs to the off the runs required for the loss of just 3 Hockey both the U14 and U15 teams completed the strength of age-group sides currently There were a few fixtures played against Old Boys, a first win v Leeds GS, and wickets. And, in a side whose strength was Both boys’ and girls’ hockey teams were undefeated seasons. in the school too; for example, the U16s local independent schools, and several others v Stockport GS, King’s Chester and very much as a collective, with 7 bowlers adversely affected during 2013-14 by the lost only 3 games all season and a good medals were gained by individuals at the Merchant Taylors’ Crosby, as well as by 5 each securing more than 10 wickets and ongoing development of the new astro, Rugby sevens campaign included a victory in AJIS championships. wickets against the visiting MCC, were all the top 5 batsmen all making significant with consequential disruption to both King’s Rugby again enjoyed a very the Stoneyhurst Sevens tournament and a impressive performances in different ways. contributions, it was notable that the festival practice and match arrangements – but successful season, with the 1st XV last-16 appearance at Rosslyn Park; the Trampolining The season culminated with three wins also saw four boys score their first ever all are agreed that the long term benefit positioned 10th nationally in the reputable U14s also lost only 3 games, and were The King’s high-fliers again gained a great at the annual Festival, held this year at centuries for the school. Finlay McCance, will be substantial! Even so, there was Daily Mail rankings. There were some runners-up at the Sedbergh Sevens; and deal of success in inter-school competitions Rossall. Both the hosts and Edinburgh with 870 runs, was the season’s most some good hockey played by increasing excellent victories recorded, including over the U12s were also a very talented group, in the sport. Having dominated at the Academy were easily defeated, and then successful individual performer. numbers of pupils, at all age groups, and traditionally strong rivals Wakefield and again with only 3 losses recorded during North-West championships, with eight Barnard Castle too, in what was effectively the future of the sport at King’s looks very Lancaster as well as , St Ambrose, the year. And, remarkably, the U11s went out of nine teams qualifying for the next the festival final, when the strength in depth Cross Country promising. Denstone and Adams. Strangely, though, completely undefeated, and won both the level, the school went on to gain national of the King’s bowling line-up proved too Senior boys’ and girls’ teams competed Among the girls’ sides, the U14s had perhaps the two outstanding performances 12-a-side and 7-a-side titles at the AJIS champion status three times – the U13 much for the Durham side. They were well in both their English Schools Cups and a good season and did very well to finish of the season were in defeat. Woodhouse championships. elite boys, the U19 elite girls and the dismissed for just 98, King’s then knocking their District Championships. As a result, third overall in the Cheshire tournament, Grove and Sedbergh finished first and U11 novice boys. The school was thereby several runners went on to represent both but the outstanding squad was the U15s. second in the national pecking order, but confirmed as one of the country’s leading the district and the county. Junior Division Not only did they manage an unbeaten King’s games against them were certainly schools in the sport. runners also enjoyed equivalent successes season, but two girls from the side went at both team and individual levels. on to represent the North of England. The boys, too, boasted a number of individual Football representative selections, and all age The U11 side competed well in all their group sides showed considerable progress competitions, if not quite enjoying the as their experience grew, with the U13s successes of the 2012-13 side. Great the most successful as North of England promise was also shown by the U10 and semi-finalists. And the 1st XI played at U9 sides. a very impressive level throughout, with excellent victories in the regular fixtures, Golf a successful mini-tour to the Bath festival, A 9-boy team from the school managed and a very respectable performance at to reach the semi-final of the national the regional finals after being crowned foursomes competition, and then a King’s Cheshire champions. side, having defeated a King’s 2nd side in the NW regional final of the Independent Netball Schools cup, went on to give a very good This was the school’s most successful year account of itself in the national finals, held to date, with both individual and team Toby Bianchi and Callum McIlveen over the magnificent courses at Carnoustie achievements at all age levels. The seniors open the innings against Edinburgh – quite an experience for the three boys did well to finish 2nd in the district league, in The Festival involved. for example; the U16s finished 4th in the north-west, the highest ever achieved by a

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SUPPORTING FAREWELL KING’S

Matt Allen [1985] died in October London in 2009. John left King’s in 1971 Society’ (2007), ‘Margaret Thatcher: a of 29 at St Paul’s, moving on later King’s is delighted that so many former 2014, aged just 48, after an 18-month for the LSE, and it was there that he came Portrait of the Iron Lady’ (2009), ‘Ladies to several other local schools before pupils choose to stay in touch with the fight against cancer. He was living in a across Friedrich Hayek, the guru of free for Liberty’ (2011). But he also remained eventually retiring from Buglawton in school long after they physically move on. village near Lutterworth with wife Tracy and market Economics, whose influence on a great friend and supporter of King’s, and . He then took up a part-time In recent months, several former pupils have 10-year-old daughter Lucy. From school, John was to carry on throughout his very made several valuable contributions to its role in youth work, as well as serving as returned to speak to current King’s pupils Matt had gone to Leeds Polytechnic, and distinguished career. After graduating, activities – for example, inaugurating the a local councillor – whilst also playing about their chosen career paths, whilst then enjoyed a varied career, incorporating John stayed in London for a few years, Drinks in the City event, support towards a very accomplished double bass in a others have chosen to offer work experience no little travelling, though had been for example as press and parliamentary cricket tours, provision of an academic jazz group for many years. placements to students keen to broaden their working for Next for 10 years as their secretary for the Federation of Small prize for 6th form Economics students. horizons. Peter Schedler [1950] died in Head of Import Tax department at the time Businesses, not to mention as an always When he left the IEA, he moved back to August, 2014; we have no further Many of you also choose to support the of his death. As well as brother Phil [1984] controversial councillor in ‘red’ Lambeth. the USA, where he travelled extensively information. school financially: something that is vital to and youngest sister Suzanne [1990], there But in 1982, he moved to the USA to head throughout the Americas on lecture tours, the school’s ongoing ability to offer bursaries was good representation from mid-1980s several free market think tanks there – for until his death last year. JB [Johnnie] Walker [1938] died to talented students whose parents are King’s at his funeral, at which his love example the Institute of Humane Studies in February, 2013, after a short illness. Michael Bridge [1971] died suddenly unable to afford fees or who have fallen on for rugby and predilection for wearing – during the period until 1993, when After leaving King’s, he started work in in November 2014, after suffering a brain hard times. The school is incredibly grateful Hawaiian shirts both featured strongly he returned to head the then somewhat a local bank, but soon joined up and tumour. After King’s, he began to train as to receive all donations to the bursary fund, – for example, by Dave Cowburn, Paul moribund IEA. He spent the next 16 embarked on what was to become a an accountant, but soon decided it was not whether through regular giving, one-off Dean, Dave Farbrother, Rick Howarth, Tim years at the organisation, and very soon Tom Margerison very successful 38-year flying career. for him, and switched to joining the family donations or legacy gifts. McNulty, Dave Rousham, three Southan had restored it to a position of no little He first trained to fly bombers and wholesale fruit and vegetable business, ‘Tonight’ programme. In 1961 he also brothers and Si Taylor. eminence. John was a personal friend was awarded the Distinguished Flying which he took over and ran, with his brother, became science editor of the Sunday Times; of many Conservative politicians, David Medal for bravery in 1942, having JND [John] Bennett, who had lived for the rest of his working life. He was a man in addition he became deputy editor of the Davis and, in her later years, Margaret flown numerous missions with Bomber in , died aged 82 in November, of the outdoors – skiing, game shooting, first Sunday colour supplement a year later, Thatcher in particular, but he preferred to Command based in Lincolnshire. He 2014. His brother, AC Bennett, who walking – as well as a DIY enthusiast and and was also instrumental in establishing, sow his free market and libertarian ideas then became a test pilot, with A V Roe, informed us of his death, reported that he committed family man. with David Frost, the franchise which became indirectly, through personal influence, and later moved to commercial flying – had always had ‘fond memories of his London Weekend TV – though he later fell speeches and the written word rather Adrian Hastings [1964] died in late though this also included participating former school’. out with Rupert Murdoch and lost his job than in the public eye as a politician. 2014; we have no further information. in the Berlin Air Lift in 1948. He joined as Chief Executive there in 1971. Another John Blundell [1971] died of cancer He was, though, a prolific author, both BEA, later British Airways, in 1951, and PF (Jack) Malkin [1969] died in 2013, of his claims to fame, was as an expert in July, 2014, aged 61; he was by then of newspaper and journal articles and eventually retired in 1976, by which having lived virtually all his life in . He in the space race and Soviet science and living again in the USA, having retired of books; examples included ‘Regulation time he was a Senior Captain. [We are left King’s to go to Leeds University, and then technology – he was particularly close to the from his position as Director General of without the State’ (2000), ‘Waging the very grateful for this information to Mark qualified as a Chartered Accountant. Having first man in space, Yuri Gagarin – though he the Institute of Economic Affairs [IEA] in War of Ideas’ (2005), ’Policing in a Liberal Walker [1982], Johnnie’s son; he left worked for a while with Spicer and Pegler, did decline an attempt to recruit him by British King’s to read Mathematics at Magdalene and then Price Waterhouse in Manchester, Intelligence! College, Cambridge, and is now Finance One former pupil who has supported the he went to ICL, with whom he spent the Ken Potts [1958], a very well-known director of CVS (Commercial Valuers and bursary fund for a number of years is Barry majority of his working career. He had a and well-respected local primary school Surveyors), based in Bramhall]. Jones (above), President of the Former Pupils’ lifetime love of rugby, having played for the teacher, died in Sept. 2013. He began Association. He says: “I was fortunate to 1st XV at school and for Cheshire Schools in Dr. David Watson, who had been his career at Ashgrove Primary, and then receive a scholarship to King’s, which I his U6th year. living in the Taunton area, died in became a very young Head at the age have no doubt set me up for life. I benefited February, 2014; we have no further Tom Margerison died, aged 90, enormously from my King’s education and information. in February 2014, after having suffered went on to become a chartered accountant. for 15 years from Parkinson’s Disease. I owe a lot to the school and it remains He was very well-known as a journalist, Staff Leavers very close to my heart. I am keen to support broadcaster and author, who did much to The following members of staff who King’s and to help other local boys and girls stimulate an intelligent popular interest in had spent at least ten years at the to access a great education through the science in particular. After King’s, he went to school, in date order of arrival, left bursary fund, and I therefore make a regular Sheffield University, where in due course he last year: Peter Illingworth, Sue annual donation to the fund.” gained a PhD in Physics. He then became Appleton Paul Halewood , , There are many different ways to donate a science journalist, being part of the team Diane Barker Karen Wells , , and more information is available on that launched New Scientist in 1956, Margaret Wheeler Jane , the school’s website: kingsmac.co.uk and was the journal’s first Scientific Editor. Rodgers and Melanie Holmes . Alternatively, if you would like to discuss Margerison was a natural broadcaster; he (Full details, of these and other a donation, please ring the Director of first appeared on Rediffusion TV in 1956 leavers, are given in the 2013-14 Finance, Jonathan Spencer Pickup, on and later regularly reported on science, King’s Illustria.) 01625 260000. John Blundell medicine and technology for the BBC Ken Potts

20 Spring 2015 Spring 2015 21 KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE EVENTS ROUNDUP

Bursary Golf Day Annual Dinner 2014 Drinks in the City Charity Rugby match It was a family affair for the Tomlinson brothers who won the annual Former Rugby league star Jon Wilkin was the guest speaker at Some 50 former pupils and current and former staff gathered On 23 December around 40 Former Pupils took part in a Pupils’ Association Bursary Fund Golf Day in July. Around 100 golfers turned King’s Former Pupils’ Association Dinner in November together in the splendid surroundings of the Oxford and charity rugby match - King’s Old Boys’ v a Macclesfield Senior out at Macclesfield Golf Club to help boost the Bursary Fund by over £4,000. 2014. The St. Helens and England star is shown here Cambridge Club in Pall Mall for the ‘Drinks in the City’ reception XV at Macclesfield Rugby Club. Pictured with Headmaster Simon Hyde (left) and event organiser Alan McInnes with Chair of the Former Pupils’ Association, David in October. Those attending included six School Captains and a The club and school have a longstanding relationship going (right) are Tomlinson brothers Gary, Paul, Dave and Wayne. In second Barratt. range of leavers from 1951 through to 2013. Well represented back over many years. The match was organised by Paul Bartle, place were Moores the Merrier, while third place went to Ken Grant’s team. Jon, who is the first were members of the ‘Cornerfield Club’ (photograph); the 1999 rugby coach and Chemistry teacher at King’s, to raise money for The Bursary Fund has now raised around £700,000 and aims to provide Chair of the Super leavers’ group; the 1996 leavers including the School Captain, East Cheshire Hospice. assistance for families who would not normally be able to afford a place. League’s Players’ Matt Forbes; and six former members of staff including Steven King’s Former Pupils came out on top -34 – 21, but the four- Association, spoke to Coyne and three Principals. The Headmaster updated the group figure sum raised meant all involved were winners. Paul said: “A an audience packed on recent developments, with a slide show of the new buildings lot of old friends went up against each other, especially as some with former and projects from all school sites. For some, this was the first of the Macclesfield Senior team were former King’s lads. We players at the Adlington viewing of the Sixth Form Centre and the new sports facilities had around 300 people turn out to support the event and there Hall Hunting Lodge. Jon at Derby Fields and Cumberland Street. The Head also gave a was some quality rugby on show, played in an excellent spirit.” said: “I have played in presentation of the progress of the ‘2020 Vision’ plans. Once good teams and I have again, the event proved to be very popular and it is proposed played in great teams Gritstone Trial? to hold a similar gathering next year so that many more of the and what makes the ‘London Exiles’ will be able to attend. difference is leadership. A team needs an inspirational The informal walking group for retired King’s staff (the Old figure who will challenge individuals across every Lags) continues to thrive. Our most recent achievement has area, taking each player out of their comfort zone and been to complete the Gritstone Trail, all 35 miles of it, from forcing them to look again at themselves.” Kidsgrove to . Readers will be dismayed to learn, Among the audience, was the special guest Jean however, that we didn’t do it all in one go. We are now Cooper, the widow of former Headmaster, Alan embarked on climbing all our local 500 metre summits, using Cooper, who led King’s for 21 years throughout the a fine continuous circular route that appeared in Trail a couple 70s and 80s. Mrs Cooper said: “I remember King’s of years ago. The picture shows a random selection of Lags, Old Boys’ Rugby Festival at Derby Fields with the greatest of affection. We arrived in this big all looking a good bit more carefree than in their final years old school with two young children and were rushed at King’s, on the edges path around the Castle Naze plateau. On Sunday 31 August, King’s hosted their annual Old Boys’ 7s competition. off our feet in the first few years, but we loved every Pictured from left: Mr Hallatt, Mr Browne, Mr Andrew, Mr Many former King’s pupils returned to Derby Fields (now celebrating its 30 minute and it was a lovely time for us both.” Gee, Mr Beatson, Mr Hart and Mr Perriss. Most Lags scored year anniversary) to take on teams made up from other years, spanning the Over £1000 was raised during the evening and both a new summit (Black Edge) and a new pub for lunch (The last two decades. It was a fun, yet competitive environment and the afternoon this will be put towards the Quincentenary Bursary Beehive Inn at Combs) that day. was very well supported by past and present staff, pupils and parents scheme which, since its inception thirteen years ago, Any other retired staff who would like to join us from time to enjoying a good chance to catch up. Frankie Barker’s Cobras have won the has now raised £700,000 and helped fifty three time, would be very welcome. competition over the last two years and were looking to make it three in a pupils attend the Sixth Form who otherwise would not Mike Hart row. However the Leavers of 2011 (Team Reg), captained and managed by have had the opportunity. Will Hanson, were keen to make an impression. The two teams met in the Pictured below is Headmaster, Dr Simon Hyde with last game of the day – the Grand Final – and in a pulsating game, Team Reg Chair of Governors Dr John Kennerley, Bursar Jonathan Then and Now (below) came back from behind to win 21-12. Spencer Pickup and Jean Cooper. Mr A J Hallatt is shown taking a break on the moors and swinging a cosh in the 1976 production of Pirates of Penzance (see page 16)

22 Spring 2015 Spring 2015 23 KING’S SPEECH THE FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE KEEP IN CONTACT

Are you in this photograph from 1972?

If you are, please get in touch, so that we can pass on your memories to Ronald van den Hurk. He sent us this message and included his form photo and all the pupil signatures. Please email us at: [email protected]

Dear sir /Madam, I am a former pupil of King’s School. I am Dutch and had a hard time adapting to England at the time. I was at King’s in 1971-1973 and would like to contact former class members. I can remember being in class Lower 4F and I think 2D. My class teacher at the time in lower 4F was I believe Mr Batchelor, I had an English teacher who was Scottish so I learned to speak English with a Scottish accent. I was in Macclesfield some 10 years ago and saw your Queen there, not knowing she was going to visit King’s. Attached is a photograph of, I believe class L4F 1972- 1973. The back of the photograph is signed by all class members. I would really like to know how they are doing. Best regards, Ronald van den Hurk

All these signatures are on the back of the photograph. Is yours one of them? Stay in touch! Hundreds of our former pupils are now using Dates for your Diary the school website and Facebook page to stay connected with King’s and former classmates. There 8 May London Dinner at the RAF Club, is a dedicated Former Pupils’ area on the website, Piccadilly Please contact Rob Unternalter accessed from the homepage, which contains dates of [email protected] forthcoming events, profiles on notable former pupils, news stories, plus details of how to get involved and 29 May Frank Moore Trophy support the school. Please see: www.kingsmac.co.uk at Macclesfield Golf Club 1pm tee (£30) 2 July Old Boys’ Cricket at Cumberland Street

3 July Bursary Fund Golf Day at Macclesfield Golf Club (teams of 4 £180)

8 July Inter-Schools Golf at Bramhall Golf Club (£38)

Sun 30 August Old Boys’ Rugby Sevens Festival at Derby Fields, Macclesfield contact [email protected]

Facebook group 27 August Howard Worth Shield at Knutsford Golf Club (£38) This open group has around 600 ‘likes’. It contains updates and news October (date TBC) Drinks in the City, from the school, details of forthcoming events for The Oxford & Cambridge Club, London former pupils, old school photos and videos, plus 13 November Annual Dinner, Adlington Hunting Lodge updates from individual former pupils. Please see: www.facebook.com/kingsinmaccfp and click ‘like’ to For more information please email: [email protected] receive our updates.

24 Spring 2015