THE OLD bradfordgrammar.com/oba BRADFORDIAN

The Old Bradfordians Association Magazine

Excellence: The best version of yourself by John Hollingworth

Archives Events Rising Stars News Sports Obituaries

Bradford Grammar School 2016-17 Edition Keighley Road, Bradford, BD9 4JP

01274 553714 | [email protected]

Design concept and artwork by VisualSense.com 02/03 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

... from the Head Welcome to the latest edition of The Old Bradfordian magazine. The following pages are packed with OB news and give a sense of the diverse and connected community that characterises WELCOME BGS alumni networks. ... I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the company of OBs at Dr Simon Hinchliffe alumni events this past year. As I admitted at one BA, MEd, PhD, FRSA of our recent London gatherings, whilst straining Headmaster ... from the President to be heard above ‘Thirsty Thursday’ drinkers, these occasions are bolstering my social life which It seems hardly any time since I was invested would otherwise be a bit thin given my young family at home. Evenings in London and Leeds as president of the OBA, and here I am alongside events at BGS have been very well writing my last article before handing over attended and convivial. the reins, in September, to Ian Holland. A great deal of positive conversation and action has come from these evenings. Together we have Ken Wootton It has been a great privilege to lead the OBA through some testing explored avenues for OBs to actively engage with (1964-71) times but also a terrific pleasure. I will take away many happy memories our higher education and careers programme – a trip to Whistler to meet OBs now settled in North America, meeting and discussed ways of developing opportunities Sixth Formers to tell them about the OBA, and many more. for bright young people, from all kinds of backgrounds, to benefit from a life changing My last couple of weeks have been particularly full. The OB London education at Bradford Grammar School. Club have found a new dining venue at the Union Jack Club just opposite Waterloo Station; I had an enjoyable evening with them Assisting children who would not otherwise be and would recommend any OB who can get there to do so. able to attend BGS is one of the ways to ensure the School’s future success and it connects us I was at Henley and made contact with Sir David Wootton (OB 1960- with our noble and historic purpose to serve and 69) and Prof. Boris Rankov (OB 1963-69) who are both Stewards; very advance our community and region. OBs are few schools have two members of the forty or so Stewards who run having a say in these matters and aiding the work the regatta. Whilst there I also bumped into the Headmaster and the of the Headmaster and Governors to shape Chair of Governors who were hosting a number of OBs that I later elements of the vision for BGS. I am hugely had the pleasure of meeting. grateful for the help I’ve received in this regard. Closer to home, I was privileged to attend the opening of the David BGS believes in bringing communities together Hockney Gallery at Cartwright Hall. On display was his work ‘Labor and creating the conditions for upward social Omnia Vincit’ which once hung outside the Jagger Library and was mobility. We do much but we could do more; we subject to all kinds of minor physical abuse from many small hands; would like to. Collaborative work with schools and it makes me shudder to think what could have happened to such a community projects locally and widening access wonderful object. speaks to the very essence of our understanding Finally, I attended the School v OBs cricket match – a splendid of education as a charitable purpose, rooted in contest won by the OBs. English statute since 1601. 04/05 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

Elizabethan lawmakers identified charitable works for: ‘… the relief of aged, impotent, and poor people; the maintenance of sick and maimed soldiers and mariners; schools Brian Parker of learning; free schools and scholars in Editor and former Chemistry teacher universities; the repair of bridges, ports, havens, causeways, churches, sea banks, and highways; the education and preferment of orphans; the relief, stock, or maintenance of houses of correction; marriages of poor maids; support, aid, and help of young tradesmen, handicraftsmen and persons decayed …’ Do we recognise our BGS counterparts in these descriptions? I’ll leave that up to you. I’m nervous about commenting! But OBs will, I’m sure, get the gist of my message at a time when independent schools like BGS remain in the national and political spotlight and many debate our role in society. BGS was founded to serve the widest possible cross section of families. I’m immensely grateful to those OBs who support us in this worthwhile endeavour. Notes from the Editor Ours is a very special school. Increasingly I’m Please note in last year’s Welcome to the 2016-17 edition of the aware of what BGS means to many OBs. Talking magazine it was incorrectly to folk at the hugely successfully 1940/50s lunch stated that the man of the Old Bradfordian – the news magazine for match trophy at the annual in May was another one of those occasions OBA v School cricket match the OBA. Many thanks to everyone who when one gets a sense for that deep affection was the Jack Ashby trophy. has helped, especially Emma, who was former pupils feel for their alma mater. I enjoyed I apologise for the error. some wonderful conversations about, for The trophy is the ‘Jack literally thrown in at the deep end! example, the former goings on of the radio and Ashley Memorial Trophy’, donated by Mark Ashley football clubs and even received compliments (1966-72) in memory of OBs continue to thrive with the Brownlee brothers on my speech, a first (!), for not being ‘overly his father. leading the way. Alistair winning the first two triathlons long’. High praise indeed. The food was splendid, held in Leeds with brother Jonny not far behind. Other There may also have been notable OBs are Abby Mae Parkinson, Team GB cyclist and the company superb. I greatly look forward to a technical issue in receiving Deborah Sides, performance analyst. This year marks the future OB events and having the opportunity to obituaries for this issue. extol the ongoing virtues of BGS and bearing If there are any missing, we first time the magazine has gone digital with only a few hundred hard copies printed. witness to bonds of friendship forged at school do apologise. that are clearly surviving the test of time. Please forward these on to Hot news just in – Laalithya Vadlamani (2011-15) [email protected] has just been appointed ‘President of the Oxford Union’. for the next edition. Yet another notable achievement for an Old Bradfordian. So, please enjoy all that follows. Keep in touch I look forward to receiving articles from by completing our OB survey (details available OBs for next year’s magazine. on request if we haven’t yet managed to reach [email protected] you) and I hope to have the pleasure of your company at one of our forthcoming events. ‘Hoc Age’ 06/07 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

Right: BGS Speech Day 2017 guest speaker, OB John Hollingworth CONTENTS (1991-99) 02 Welcome 13 M emories of BGS: 81 years on 07 Ex cellence: The best version by Derek Oldfield (1935-40) of yourself 17 Image gallery 10 David Hockney: Rising Stars ... 80th Birthday 18 Deborah Sides 11 Memories of BGS: 21 Abby-Mae Parkinson BGS in the 1940s 22 Anthony Smith by Malcolm Brook (1944-49) 24 News 29 Events 32 Sports 34 Remembering ... EXCELLENCE:

I have worked at BGS now for THE BEST VERSION two years. It has certainly flown and time passes quickly when you’re enjoying working in such OF YOURSELF a beautiful School. When Dr Hinchliffe asked me to be the guest As part of my role within the I have just started at BGS after speaker at Speech Day earlier this year my Communications, Development having run my own business for and Marketing (CDM) team, I am three and a half years. immediate reaction was ‘have you got the wrong responsible for all BGS publications, My role in the Communication, number?’ Once it became apparent that he hadn’t, including the ‘Bradfordian’ and ‘Hoc Development and Marketing (CDM) that concern was swiftly replaced by another, Age’ magazines. I am thrilled now team will involve keeping in touch to be a part of the ‘Old Bradfordian’ more pressing one – ‘what can I usefully say?’ with our alumni and being their first magazine, supporting and co- point of call, so I am looking forward editing, alongside Brian Parker, Editor to getting involved and meeting and former Chemistry Teacher. To be asked to return and address the school suggests that one many Old Bradfordians over the should have something worth saying – some wisdom worth passing This magazine really brings to coming months and years. on. At thirty-six and smack bang in the middle of my professional the fore aspects of BGS heritage, Please get in touch if you would journey, I felt a shade under-qualified for such a privileged task. including our motto ‘Hoc Age’, like to get involved in our careers I was even a little nervous arriving back to such a familiar but providing an authentic impression programme, if you would like to visit unfamiliar place. of the School as it is today, defined the School or just let us know what by our historic foundations, values Fortunately, I was blessed with brilliant teachers across the board you are up to. and cherished traditions, but also by during my time at school and was deeply relieved to see two of our innovative and forward-looking Rebecca Bull them – Julian Reed-Purvis and Kate Wilde – waiting to greet me, approach. Alumni Relations my wife and son at reception on the day itself. I was stunned at the idea that they would think I might have forgotten them. BGS [email protected] It’s a pleasure to be a part of it’s certainly leaves its mark on those who pass through its doors. continued development. 01274 553710 When I arrived for the final year of Clock House way back in 1991, Emma Wragg I was an unprepossessing and decidedly average student. I came Communications Manager from a humble background. I grew up on benefits with a single [email protected] parent mum near Keighley. She had scrimped and saved enough 01274 553709 to pay me through that one year in the hope that the entrance 08/09 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

Right: John Hollingworth plays. I’m probably best known for my recent work as Captain Henshawe Your task – as and BGS Headmaster throughout three series of the period drama ‘Poldark’ on BBC One. students – is to Simon Hinchliffe persevere, to keep Far right: John Hollingworth Conscious that I was asked back to speak at school during a high point in presents an award my career, I resolved to be candid about the difficulties of self-employed going. That’s all you life. It’s easy to make life as an actor sound attractive but I’ll let you into a need. Don’t work for secret: it’s nowhere near as glamorous as it looks in the glossy magazines. your parents, or your For the majority of actors ‘glamorous’ is the last word they would choose friends or even for to describe their working lives. your teachers – work for yourself, because I contacted Equity – the actors’ trade union – to check their current the habit of work is employment figures. The results were startling. Only 8% of UK actors what you need to work at any given time, which means that 92% are unemployed. An actor succeed when you works an average of 11.3 weeks a year professionally. Only 6% of Equity walk out the front members earn over £30,000 a year. door of the school for It can be the most fantastically charmed life. When it’s good, it really is your last time. great. I have enjoyed exotic stints in Jamaica, Prague, Madrid and – well – BGS changed my life. exams to the Senior School would see me land an Belgium. I’ve also had to live in Bolton for six weeks and suffered weekly It gave me the tools I assisted place at the School – whereby my fees touring through Coventry – twice. I have had to graft to get by – for almost needed to get ahead. would be covered by the local authority by dint of as long as I can remember – no matter the glamour of the job I’m on. There’s nothing you being a ‘promising student’. One break through theatre job in the heart of London’s West End paid so shouldn’t feel entitled I managed to come top in the English exam badly that I had to work in a call centre during the day in order to pay the to if you’re willing to and bottom in the Maths exam which led to an rent. Then there was the time I rushed back from filming a day on a major put in the hard work interview with then head of school Mr D.A.G. Hollywood blockbuster to make my evening shift selling Christmas trees for it and keep your Smith (DAGS to all and sundry) during which – on a roundabout in Ealing. After finishing a series of ‘Poldark’ one Friday feet on the ground. in between puffs of his pipe – he weighed up I pitched up on a building site the Monday after and ended up staying Whatever you do, do whether there was any potential ‘promise’ sitting in six months because I was being picky about the acting work I wanted to it as well as you can. front of him that might be worth taking a punt on. move on to next. It’s a simple message I remember him quite literally scratching his head – but hopefully a That’s the truth I’m best qualified to speak to – the lesson that I can at the prospect of what to do with me. Nobody useful one. most usefully expound. It can be hard out there. And this place – this was more surprised than me that he decided I brilliant school community – trains you for success out there, but it also should benefit from a fully assisted place. Perhaps provides a foundation, a strength and a resilience to get you through the he was a betting man. challenging times. The credo that has got me through the demands of my After proudly serving as Head Boy in my final chosen career has been what I learnt at BGS – get your head down and year at the school I went on to take a first class work hard and keep doing. ‘Hoc Age’. honours degree in English Literature at Trinity

College, Dublin, and subsequently trained as an

actor at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. In the nine years I’ve worked professionally as an actor, I have appeared in ten feature films, 21 different television shows, 14 radio plays and 12 stage 10/11 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

1 Memories of BGS: David Hockney: BGS in the 1940s 80th Birthday Malcolm Brook (1944-49) David Hockney celebrated his 80th birthday on 9 July this year. To mark I joined Thornville, the BGS Prep school, in this occasion a permanent gallery September 1945 at the age of eight, and came has been dedicated to him in to school by tram from Thornbury to Forster Cartwright Hall. Square, and thence by trolley bus to Thornville, 2 which was situated opposite Manningham Park. The gallery featured sketches and 1 ‘I used to love going to Although the war had just ended almost everything photographs from his youth and a Cartwright Hall as a kid, it was the only place in was rationed, including petrol, so that nobody came mechanical dachshund. Hockney Bradford I could see real said that he always enjoyed visiting paintings’ – David Hockney by car – it was either public transport or bicycle. Cartwright Hall as it was the only 2 & 3 Self-portraits and place he could see real paintings. photos from Hockney’s personal albums are among Foster Square station belonged to the LMS the pictures on display 3 The major items on show included (London Midland and Scottish Railway), and two sketchbooks, mainly self- 4 Brian Parker and his wife’s a major hobby for a lot of pupils was trainspotting invitation to the opening portraits from the 1950s when he of the gallery the magnificent steam trains. The station was at Bradford Grammar School forecourt had vending machines for Nestlé and later at Bradford School of Art. chocolate bars, but they had been empty since In 1959 he went to study at the the war began; none of us could imagine a world Royal College of Art. The gallery also where you could get chocolate from a machine, includes interviews with Hockney by without ration coupons! 4 the filmmaker Bruno Wollheim. The editor, Brian Parker, and his wife were lucky enough to be a guest at the opening of the gallery. 12/13 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

There were few new toys available during WW2 – all manufacturing resources were devoted to the war effort. However, shortly after joining Thornville the very first post war Dinky Toys appeared in nearby Busby’s Department store and caused a minor sensation … and long queues! I think I joined the main school in September In November 1949 the Brook 1948 in class 3E and another classmate was David family left Bradford for Devon. I Hockney. He was very obviously talented at art transferred to Exeter School and and occasionally would draw a cartoon on the sadly lost contact with my former blackboard before class started. The cartoons BGS classmates. However, my stay at were funny but invariably unflattering and the class BGS holds many happy memories, would start with the master demanding, ‘Hockney, in particular two outstanding remove that drawing from the blackboard!’ teachers gave me an enormous ‘War surplus’ products were sold in special urge to visit faraway places. Captain shops in central Bradford at very low prices; they Hare in Thornville and ‘Dynamite included tents, sleeping bags and inflatable RAF Dan’ Downend in the main school yellow dinghies. They helped make up for the were both absolutely brilliant at shortage of toys. One day, I came across David teaching Geography and gave me and his friends with such a dinghy in the reservoir an enthusiasm for travel, which has in Fagley Woods. I had gone there for the fishing, never ended. however it was a warm day and I also ended up in I completed my schooldays at Exeter the reservoir – the dinghy was fantastic fun! School and left in 1954 to become Early in 1949 Prince Philip officially opened the a Chartered Accountant, however present BGS building and made a very amusing my urge to visit those faraway places speech. He arrived with a large ornamental key, was instrumental in starting my opened the main door, found the assembly hall own business – Sparex Ltd in full of pupils and staff, and commented, ‘Someone 1965 - making Tractor Accessories must have got here before me to let you all in’. and selling them worldwide. He then compared the school motto, ‘Hoc Age’ The business was successful and (get on and do it), to the Navy’s equivalent motto was sold in 1981 with seven overseas of Swing It Till Monday! subsidiaries and customers in over 70 countries.

Together with my son I subsequently The 1930s decade was one in which there started Stovax Ltd, making stoves was a great deal of change. At home there had and fireplaces, and Gazco, which manufactures gas versions of the been the Silver Jubilee of King George the Fifth in fires. We also founded Original Style 1935, followed by the abdication of his successor ‘Although the war Ltd, which makes ceramic tiles. All of Edward the Eighth, and the crowning of his the companies are major exporters had just ended almost and have resulted in more than brother, George the Sixth. everything was rationed, 1,000 jobs being created in Exeter. Working for them has also given me including petrol, so that the opportunity to travel extensively Memories of BGS: nobody came to school by worldwide – at the last count it was 75 countries, with 38 visits to the 81 years on car – it was either public USA alone. However, much of the transport or bicycle.’ credit must go to Messrs Hare and Derek Oldfield (1935-40) Downend for giving me the travelling bug in the first place! I really was lucky to have been taught by them. 14/15 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

‘... all the masters were wearing academic gowns, many of them in poor condition through ill treatment ...’

Throughout the decade the Bradford Corporation deposited countless lorry Above: Price Hall, the scene In 1936, just before his retirement, Dr Edwards cut of countless assemblies, the first sod to prepare for the foundations of the loads of clinker and ash collected from the innumerable textile mills in and concerts and performances around Bradford. They were dependent upon steam to power the varieties since its construction in 1947. new school building. The Foundation Stone was of machinery employed to convert the City’s stable industry of raw wool into laid by Sir Henry Price in the following year. He had worsted cloth in which it led the World. By levelling the Clock House Estate it given a donation of £30,000 for the new Main hall was possible to develop the excellent sports pitches that are now available, and (now known as the Price Hall) and building then at the same time provide a site for the new school building that was planned. took place until 1939 when it was finished. Administratively there were to be changes to the staffing and these took place During the War years ‘Dig for Victory’ was during the second half of the decade. As a matter of curiosity, there were also three undertaken in the field opposite St. Peters Church Jones’ on the staff that year, Dr Clement Jones, in Moorhead Lane, Saltaire. It was virgin land and As a young boy from a local council school who had won a Bradford City Mr Ellis Jones, Head of Physics and Mr Iolo Jones had to be dug two spits deep, initially under the Scholarship to BGS, I had to attend an entrance exam and have an interview who taught Maths. watchful eye of Mr Eric Ewbank. It is now the site with the Headmaster during the previous summer term, prior to starting the of the flat called ‘Petersgarth’. following September. To be met and greeted by a tall, slim grandfatherly At the end of the school year in September 1946, figure with a walrus moustache and clad in an academic gown and mortar there were three retirements of senior staff and one To conform to Government regulations the board was a new awesome experience as such dress was unknown at my resignation. Dr Edwards, the Headmaster, retired School had to be divided between a number previous Junior School. as did Dr Clement Jones, Second Master, and Mr of buildings. Some of the scholars had been Ellis Jones, Head of Physics. Mr Farrell the Head of evacuated to Giggleswick School (I suspect that To find on my first day at assembly (or morning prayers) that not only did Classics resigned to take up a career in the law. they were mainly junior pupils from Thornville). the Headmaster process the length of the Main Hall in Manor Row before The rest of Thornville scholars were moved to St. removing his head gear when reaching the dais and beginning the service. They were replaced by Mr Eric Percival Smith as Peters Church Hall whilst Thornville and Clock All the masters other than Bill Smith the PE master, who lined the walls were Headmaster, Mr Charles Hall (the Senior History House (until then the Headmaster’s residence) also wearing academic gowns, many of them in poor condition through ill Master) as Second Master, Mr Eric Ewbank as each had a limited number of senior pupils as did treatment. Although, on my first Speech Day, which was at Eastbrook Hall (St. Senior Classics Master and (I believe) Mr Pocock as the main school in Manor Row where the Sixth Georges Hall – Bradford’s Concert Hall – was leased to Gaumont British as a Senior Physics Master. Forms were housed. cinema) all the masters were in impeccable gowns together with the hoods Regrettably, the Headmaster died after about two relating to their respective degrees. years and Mr Charles Hall was Acting Headmaster The building was commandeered during the second World War as a Primary Training Centre for Doctor Edwards the Headmaster was resplendent in a red gown and mortar until the appointment of Mr R. B. Graham in, I think, the first six weeks training of conscripts into the Army. board. There were two other Doctors on the Staff, Dr Clement Jones, the 1938-39. During my four years and eight months in The School did not move in until the end of 1948 Seconder Master, Head of Mathematics and Dr Williams who taught German. the School before leaving in April 1940 there were when there had been a great deal of refurbishment I cannot remember whether these two gentlemen also wore three Headmasters and one Acting Head. and it was officially opened by The Duke of different coloured and styled gowns. During my time at School, the blazer and Edinburgh in 1949. cap badges were in the form of the School’s monogram surmounted by a crown and were embroidered in the wearer’s House colours. In those years all boys were required to wear caps unless they were members of the Sixth Form. The new general badge for both blazer and cap was introduced, I believe, about the time that Mr R. B. Graham became Headmaster, and has only recently been replaced. These images provide a brief snapshot of the many wonderful moments from the past year at BGS.

... STARS RISING DEBORAH SIDES as thesejobsare quite rare to come by. So Iwasat thetop of my gamewhenitcameto applying for ajob— the qualifications andexperience Ineeded. on experience in an area that all Ihad love.I that in me helped School The included anindustryplacement inAustralia, anditwasfabulous to get hands- up studyingSport andExercise Science at Bath University for four years. This BGS openedupfor mewhenitcameto looking for gooduniversities. Iended every sportunderthesun..Iwasalsoluckyto have theopportunitiesthat I absolutely loved itat BGS.The sportsfacilities are renowned andIplayed including Biology, ChemistryandPsychology, allof whichIwanted to study. support Ineededto balance thisalongside theacademicsideof things course which I’d heard wasgreat at theSchool.Iknew Icould alsoget the ‘I cameto BGSfor Sixth Form andIreally wanted to studytheALevel PE attended Bradford Grammar School. Cycling Performance Analyst for theBritish Cycling Team, Deborah Sides, 2016-17 Edition The Old Bradfordian 18/19 experiences ... Here three OBsreflect ontheir careers beyondBGSwithinterest. Old Bradfordians andfollowtheir We lovetokeepintouchwith

are renowned and I played every sport I absolutely loved sports facilities available to me under the sun Cycling Performance Analyst for the British Analyst for theBritish it at BGS,the Sport andExercise Deborah Sides Cycling Team Science, Bath (2004-11) _ _

Rio 2016. dream cametrue,Iwasat London 2012andthen and thinking–‘That’s where Iwant to work’. My the day that London won the2012Olympics bid remember standingintheSixth Form Centre on Sport, soIknewwanted to reach for that. I Cycling isTeam GB’s mostsuccessful Olympic Cycling Team wasthe pinnacleof jobsinthisfield. Performance Analyst positionfor theBritish I cycle myself andcould seehow theCycling — that’s where BGScameinto themix. for me,butit’s allaboutbeingintheright position Cycling for three years. My path waslaidoutnicely British Athletics for three years andthenBritish After university Icompleted aPhD. Iworked with everyone you can. Makingthosecontacts. best work experience Icould. It’s aboutspeakingto out inAustralia wasanunpaidyear tryingto get the teams, andthesamewent for university. The year got my nameoutthere withlots of different sports At SchoolIdidalot of work experience andreally really care aboutyou andyour future. I’m getting upto. You’re not justaname,they and supportme.They like to know what your needs.Even now, theteachers stay intouch treat you asanindividualandtailor theirsupportto experience andselectionof universities. They The teachers alsosupported mewithmy work so interesting. The movement andphysics of sport,it’s all fantastic andIloved every minute of it. programme together withBiomechanics was I owe alot to theSchool,ALevel PE

20/21 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

There are two Analysts for the British Cycling Team including myself, so we both attend all the training sessions, travel to all competitions and video the cyclists’ performance. We then break this all down, looking at the times they’re producing and the technical work (the powers they’re producing on the bikes). We also work alongside the team pursuit squads, especially when trying to get that Olympic Gold medal. Both the women and men’s ABBY-MAE teams won Gold at Rio which was fantastic. PARKINSON It’s really exciting to be in a job like this! Cyclist Abby-Mae has recently been chosen for Team GB. When you analyse the cyclists you take down all their training data and put this into a database. ‘I started in Clock House in 2005 and clearly remember Mr and Mrs Reddish, Then you look for trends and patterns in their who really got me into running. When I moved over to Senior School, it performance to try and see which training is most was Mr Lines who I went out running with a lot. The PE department here is beneficial. All the training is individualised, based amazing. I loved that everyone was and still is interested in what I’m up to. I on the athletes and their position in the team. always get tweets from staff supporting me. The data I capture helps to decide who makes the It’s hard to highlight just a couple of teachers as there were so many who team selections for the Olympics, so you’ll start helped me, but Mr Hooper, Mr Hanson and Dr Shepherd stand out as being with eight cyclists and eventually this is narrowed flexible and understanding of my other commitments. However, I’m grateful down to four, based on all the data gathered. to all of my teachers – I loved my time at BGS. I’m still in touch with my old It’s also interesting to look at the opposition, classmates but I’m hardly in the UK so it can be difficult sometimes. I keep in so I analyse other countries to predict what they’re touch mainly through social media. going to do at the Olympic games, so that we can At A Level I studied Geography, PE and Biology. The School put on PE A Level try to be faster. At Rio we were — which was great. just for me and I took Biology as I was interested in physiotherapy, which I Next, we’ll start all over again for the 2020 may still do in the future. Mr Wilde and Mr Galley supported me in finding Olympics in Tokyo and look at different ways of universities which had good physiotherapy courses, but of course my passion doing the sports analysis to stay at the forefront is cycling. of Olympic success. My biggest achievement was earlier this year when I rode the Giro Rosa, We’re constantly thinking of new ideas and we’ll the biggest stage race for women, and I finished just outside the top ten in the have younger athletes coming in. I spoke to a U23 category. I did the Worlds and the Europeans as a junior last year and I BGS pupil today who’s interested in cycling, so it’s was national champion. lovely to pass all this experience and knowledge I’m now with my new team ‘Drops’, living in Nice and training out there. on to current BGS pupils.’ I’m also looking forward to improving my results and I completed the Tour de Yorkshire this year.’

Abby-Mae Parkinson (2005-14) _

Team GB Cyclist ANTHONY SMITH 2016-17 Edition The Old Bradfordian 22/23 Engineering Engineering Rolls-Royce Rolls-Royce (2005-10) Graduate _

ANTHONY the mostamazingatmosphere to learnthesport. were incredible with thestudents, andprovided Mr Galley, Mr Wilde andtherest of thePEsquad would bethetimeIspent withtherugby team. a lot to thankBGSfor inthat respect. Another really become abitof apassionfor me,soIhave for me.BGSiswhere Ilearnt to ski,whichhas favourite. Seniorskitrips were aparticularhighlight I have far too many excellent memoriesto picka really changedmy life. on my behalf, so, whoever itwas,thankyou! You me in.Inever found out whomadethat decision so undoubtedly BGS took abitof ariskoninviting actually quite borderline onthe inductionexam, choice of making themove across to BGS.Iwas Stephen Davidson, whohadareal impactonour Everyone wassofriendly, especially theHead D&T facilities hadmeitching to move across. onto theHogwarts set, andthe sports, artsand Walking into thePrice Hall Ithought Ihadstepped me away. we visited wasBGSandtheplace totally blew looking at different schools.O decision Iwaspretty happy with, andwe began previous schoolat thestartof my third year, a ‘My parents decidedto move meoutof my SMITH ne of the schools ne of theschools automotive applications. research into amaterial withnuclearenergy and employed by theuniversity to conduct some I alsosecured aresearch bursary andwas best materials graduate. Whilst at Loughborough my professional institution (IOM3)for the UK’s for anenterprise award and anational award with five university awards, and receiving nominations class withafirst classMaster’s degree, winning my degree. Imanagedto graduate top inmy at Loughborough University whilstholdingdown Engineering, having athoroughly enjoyable time I thenstarted my Masters inMaterials Devon andCornwall. coaxing themto jump outat trapeze bars, surfing throwing kidsoutof windows onzip-lines,or in Torquay, spending any timeIhadaway from ski seasonIwent to work for PGLBarton Hall as achalet host/chef whichwascracking. Post to university. IdidaskiseasoninFrance, working When Ileftschooltook ayear outbefore heading go to school. around. BGSwas,indeed,anincredible place to morph suitsonthelastday of schoolandcharging tennis andhockey, alltheway through to donning working outwiththePhysics Olympiad, to playing to lounging around intheSixth Form Centre, to Everything from playing rugby inthecourt yard, borderline on on borderline BGS took a bit BGS tookbit a actually quite inviting mein the induction undoubtedly of a riskof a on exam, so I was was I

definitely tried to carrythrough into life postBGS. so muchopportunityfor fun,something I’ve to build my social life, andprovided mewith The School gave meagreat dealof confidence enjoyment in currently. have. It’s something I’m findingsomuch I would have thought to take thecareer path I opportunities provided by thestaff, Idon’t think Without theinputfrom my teachers, andthe ability, anddirection inwhichto channelit. It gave metheconfidence in my intellectual myself, andbechallengedby my teachers. BGS gave methefree reign to really challenge feature lengthskimovie have beenawesome. being partof agroup whichhasjustreleased a level, winningauniversity skicompetition, and my classwiththeseven awards. On apersonal have beenmy degree results -graduating top of My greatest professional achievements to date never before usedingasturbineengines. to work onnewmaterials and concepts, asyet attachment intheturbinesdepartment, continuing and I’m thoroughly looking forward to my next bearings thedifferent enginesystems spinon), challenging area of theengine(theenormous I’m loving the work, having started on a particularly Engines group, whichreally isadream come true. Rolls-Royce, working primarily intheCivilLarge PhD, andstarted my graduate programme at to gointo industryrather thanembarkingona between industryandacademia–finally choosing Whilst at university Imadethe difficult decision

based online platform. This enables based onlineplatform. This enables and student engagement one-step and student engagement one-step employability andworking more closely together Old Bradfordians to set uporimporttheirprofiles from LinkedIn, develop professional connections first in Yorkshire to have access to BGS leavers and alumni to be the BGS leavers andalumnito bethe ‘Our alumniandcareers programme both have a role to play inboostinggraduate opportunity, NEWS one-stop-shop of real value,’ says BGSHead of networking site, BGS-alumni.com, encourages The Bradford Grammar School(BGS)branded Higher Education andCareers, Sarah Flaherty, further withGraduway, acloud ‘We wanta to offer ourstudents andalumni of engagement of engagement with oneanother, mentor pupilsoryoung this newtypeof networking. The School is taking alumni The Schoolistakingalumni graduates andinvite others to signup. – thisiswhere Graduway comes in.’ OBs at heart OBs atheart BGS puts BGS puts 2016-17 Edition The Old Bradfordian 24/25

this valuablework.’ philanthropy; Graduway ishelpingusto undertake employability of ourstudents andsupporting the future, helpingtheSchoolto improve the ‘Our alumniare at theheartof BGSstrategy for events. Many OBs want to give something back.’ offering work experience, and attending careers to ourfee assistance programme, givingtalks, who supporttheSchoolby donating generously strengths. We are deeply grateful to thoseOBs their almamater ispalpableandoneof ourmany affection that Old Bradfordians (OBs) feel towards BGS Headmaster, Simon Hinchliffe, said:‘The practical one-to-one orsmallgroup mentoring. speaking at orhostingevents, andincreasingly This includesnetworking lunches,seminars, opportunities for themto supportcurrent pupils. more innovatively inschoolactivitiesandproviding BGS believes ininvolving theirvaluablealumni intuitive andengagingsystem.’ so we know we’re tappinginto anextremely recognised asathought leaderinalumnirelations expertise, knowledge andexperience. It’s also empowering avaluablenetwork for sharing ‘It provides aplatform that willbridgethegap, network. alumni their Yorkshire,in power to partnerour first school BGS, with partnering We’re delighted be to “ … ”

across theworld.’ alumni to buildaworld classcareer network that stretches from Yorkshire alumni network. This isafantastic opportunityfor both theirstudents and Bradford Grammar School, ourfirst partnerschoolin Yorkshire, to power their Daniel Cohen, Graduway CEO said:‘We’re delighted to bepartneringwith have onour schoolandthewidercommunity cannot beunderstated.’ contributing much to theSchool’s development; thepositive impact they and develop relationships. We take great prideinthankingouralumnifor ‘Graduway allows usto engagewithouralumnionadeeperlevel, to broaden schools of thenorth.’ who work withussupportingthisimportant work for oneof theiconic core of ourvalues,foundation andcharitablepurposewe thank those opportunity to flourish. Widening access to a schoollike ours remains at the closed. We mustcontinue to give asmany young peopleaspossiblethe and openingdoors to future careers that otherwise would have remained ‘Our BGSassisted places have thepower to transform lives; instillingambition a majorrole inengagingalumniwhowishto give something back. it offers to children from variety of backgrounds. BGS-alumni.com willplay One of theSchool’s key ambitionsisto increase theamount of fee assistance Join Graduway at bgs-alumni.com

platform for BGS alumni BGS for platform Above: Glimpses of the the of Glimpses Above: a cloud-based online new Graduway site – – site Graduway new

26/27 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

A moment of reflection … Old Bradfordians Dear Old Bradfordians, it is my pleasure to be Club London writing to you as I enter If you’re a recent BGS leaver – and therefore my second full year now an Old Bradfordian – this will be your back at BGS as Deputy first Old Bradfordian publication. Welcome! Headmaster.

The Old Bradfordians Association It certainly has been and continues to and Old Bradfordians Club London be an exciting period for the School are two distinct organisations to help and we are currently celebrating Old Bradfordians keep in touch and some fantastic GCSE and A level offer great social and networking results this summer. We could not be opportunities. more proud of our students and their James Williams As the President of the Old Bradfordians We’re always delighted to welcome success is in no small part down to (1980-90) Club London, I’d like to share more new Old Bradfordians. Club the extraordinary commitment and capability of my colleagues. Old Bradfordians’ Club about who we are and what we can membership is free, the first Dinner London President do for you. is free for new members coming Louis d’Arcy I was struck very early on by the Bradford Grammar School certainly The OB Club London welcomes Old to one of our regular Dinners, and (1987-95) intelligence and ambition of our boys remains true to its core values Bradfordians who are visiting, working students pay what they can. That Deputy and girls, as well as the extremely of opportunity, excellence and or studying in the capital to meet up has to appeal to us northerners! Headmaster high quality of the teaching available happiness and the spirit of our motto and enjoy a regular programme of During my past three years as to them. Our non-teaching staff also ‘Hoc Age’ is alive and well. I have very events throughout the year. We also President, I’ve been delighted to make an invaluable contribution to much enjoyed meeting generations extend a warm welcome to partners, have welcomed more younger the life of the School and help to of Old Bradfordians at the various friends and family of Old Bradfordians members to the Club and ladies to provide the best possible experience alumni meetings I have attended to all events. our Committee. Engagement with for our pupils, their parents and and share the great affection that my colleagues. Exciting plans are they have for the School and the These include regular dinners at younger OBs is important for the longevity of the Club. also currently taking shape to education they received there. the Union Jack Club near Waterloo, further improve our facilities and and this year’s Annual Dinner on So, whether you want to relax with What has been very clear is that most help to fulfil our aim of continuous Old Bradfordians hold their former Friday 24 November at the Carlton a bunch of friendly OBs, you’re improvement. Club where we’re delighted to looking for careers advice or passing teachers in high esteem and credit welcome two guest speakers – the through the capital when one of our them with their successes. I have also Headmaster Dr Simon Hinchliffe, events is on, a network of London delighted in hearing many touching, and Old Bradfordian, actor, writer Old Bradfordians is here. and at times amusing anecdotes and producer John Hollingworth, about their times at BGS and have whom you may recognise as To receive emails about had the privilege of showing a Captain Henshawe in the BBC our events, or get in touch number of Old Bradfordians around adaptation of ‘Poldark’. with ideas for events we could the School. run, email the Hon. Secretary The Club also contributes to a Sixth Do please feel free to visit us and Deborah Williams on take a walk down memory lane. Form Scholarship, supports the [email protected] Robert Miura Bursary Fund to assist Best wishes, pupils through their career at school, Louis d’Arcy and administers the James and Eliza Drummond Studentship Trust to help Old Bradfordians continue their studies at postgraduate level. 28/29 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

A 1940s and 1950s reunion ... For the first time the two decade reunions were combined. What a success. Over 100 OBs and guests attended and some OBs came from as far afield as Scotland and Devon.

After collection of name badges at 12.30pm the attendees assembled EVENTS in the entrance hall where a bar and table/chairs had been set up. Drinking and chatting went on for about an hour when lunch was At the time of my education at London Club Annual served in the School dining hall. BGS it was singly a boys’ school, What a super lunch the school but I did expect most of the Dinner 2016 put on with every manner of attendees to be accompanied by food and drink. Tales of long past partners. Alas it turned out to be On Friday 18 November 2016, the Old Bradfordians adventures resounded around the a largely masculine domain. London Club was honoured to welcome former dining hall for over an hour while Walking through the teacher’s The President James 1 the delicious food was consumed. Headmaster Stephen Davidson (1996-2012), current corridor on the way to the Deputy Headmaster Louis d’Arcy (OB), President Williams closed the After everybody’s appetite was dining hall, many followed the Dinner by thanking sated the President of the OBA, mounted photographs of past of the Old Bradfordians Association (OBA) Ken OBs and their guests Ken Wootton, gave a short prominent figures. Some brought Wootton, and Trevor Smith (OB and former School for a superb evening, welcome speech followed by back memories for me – none Governor) as our guest speakers. and the Carlton Club a presentation given by the more so than W.E Clarkson. for their consistently Headmaster, Simon Hinchliffe. I still remember our significant excellent service. The afternoon concluded with farewell collection from the We welcomed 84 OBs and Guests, representing a 2 This year’s Annual tours of the School. School and his warm and sincere cross-section of all ages, with a notable increase in Dinner takes place on final speech. I am confident the number of younger members who had joined the Friday 24 November. BGS must remain amongst the Club during the course of the year. E John Davies Invites will be issued highest independent schools (1955-64) Over the course of the evening, Stephen gave us witty insights to members via email. in the country. into his time at BGS – particularly enjoyed by those OBs who I convey my thanks for this were under his stewardship – and his recent tenure as High If you are interested in splendid occasion and so well becoming a member David A Noble Sheriff of West Yorkshire. Trevor Smith updated us on the WW1 attended. It was a pleasure to of the London Club 3 (1963-70) commemoration project and Deputy Headmaster Louis d’Arcy assemble in the foyer, an initial gave an update on the school, which was followed by an or you would like to opportunity to search for familiar FirstBus Bradford has honoured update from Ken Wootton, representing the OBA. update your contact faces. These ‘faces’ were for me an Old Bradfordian, the late details with us, please few and far between, possibly Stanley King. Stanley, who died As is now customary, the evening began with a email the Hon. because I was much at the in 2012, was a former councillor champagne reception in the drawing room, before being Membership Secretary younger end of the reunion and Lord Mayor of Bradford, invited by the President James Williams to the Deborah Williams at scale. However, I did meet a past and was twice appointed as Churchill Room for Dinner at 7.30pm. [email protected] team partner in my old rowing Chairman of the West Yorkshire Continuing our long history and tradition with The Carlton crew. We understandably went Transport Authority. He was Club, London, members and guests enjoyed a menu back to rowing club memories also a well known transport 1 Tales of past adventures comprised of a starter of smoked salmon with dressed leaves, resounded and subsequent events. enthusiast and author. A FirstBus followed by tournedos of rose county beef with chateau 2 Lunch was served in the double decker is in service, potatoes, swede dauphinoise, red cabbage purée, baby carrots School dining hall repainted in the smart blue livery and port wine jus, and a dessert of baked chocolate mousse 3 From left: Ken Wootton of Bradford City Transport from with butterscotch sauce, chocolate tuile and crème fraîche. (OBA President) John the 1960’s with the name Stanley Hammond (OB) and Brian Parker (Editor of the Old King painted in large gold letters Bradfordian and Former above the front destination Chemistry Teacher) James Williams blind. The bus was last seen in (1980-90) Pudsey bus station on a Leeds Old Bradfordian Club to Bradford route. London President 30/31 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

OBA Bacchus Golf Careers, networking Cup competition and guest speakers This annual event took place Thank you to all Old Bradfordians on a warm but somewhat who have returned to School to humid evening. Luckily the offer careers advice and subject thunderstorms forecast failed knowledge to current pupils. to materialise.

Year 13 Leavers’ Lunch It is always good to meet up with old friends Recent events at the School have included a free but it would be good to see some new players science lecture, ‘The Birth and Death of a Solar The annual lunch for Year 13 entering the competition in the future. System’, by OB Prof. John Richer, Cavendish students took place on 26 May 2017, just before they finished for Laboratory, University of Cambridge. The lectures There were 12 Old Bradfordians and five guests exam leave. After a slideshow of aim to inspire children of all ages and fascinate taking part and the winner of the Bacchus Cup nostalgic photos and messages, children and grown-ups alike with the wonderful was David Ramsbottom with a score of 37 Above: The Rugby the traditional Tug of War took Rugby Reunion and weird world of science. points. David has been playing in the event for Reunion set to become a place on the Governors Lawn. regular event feature In October 2016 we over 20 years and it is the first time he has won. We have been delighted to welcome an array of Good luck for the future to the welcomed back Old He retired recently and has, therefore, been esteemed speakers such as The Brexit Special newest Old Bradfordians. Bradfordians to a able to play more golf. The runner up, after a Question Time panel event with three local Rugby Reunion, which countback, was Andrew Seal with 35 points parliamentarians was a unique opportunity we hope will become with Peter Smith coming third. Nicholas Smith for students to engage with a range of robust a regular feature in the won the Guest’s prize with a score of 33 points. viewpoints and to quiz those at the forefront of OBA calendar. triggering Article 50. If you would like to consider playing in the Following a buffet event in 2018, please email lpearson@ The higher apprenticeships in Law are becoming lunch and drinks in bradfordgrammar.com or contact Roy Aspinall increasingly popular and we are grateful to local the DH Room the on 01226 725409 email [email protected] law firms for highlighting this attractive new path group wandered down into the profession. to the playing fields to watch the 1st XV If you are interested in offering placements, Below: The traditional Tug of War take on Nottingham shadowing, advice or attending a networking on the Governors Lawn High School. The event, please contact Sarah Flaherty, Head of result was somewhat Careers and Higher Education, at careers@ disappointing, but it bradfordgrammar.com didn’t dampen the Join Graduway at bgs-alumni.com spirits of the 17 OBs, who were reminiscing about wins and losses (and the infamous 55 Class of 2016 straight wins for the Reunion ’87 team …) … If you are interested in On 5 April 2016, After the match we “ ” last year’s Year 13 returned to the main offering placements, leavers came back building for afternoon to BGS for their first tea. A trip to the ‘Mucky shadowing, advice or reunion. After having Duck’ couldn’t be attending a networking lunch and a few missed, which was drinks, they spoke to followed by a curry event, please contact us ... teachers and shared in the city centre. their experiences Everyone was keen to with our current see an annual event set Year 13 students. in the calendar and to grow the reunion into something huge. swimming boys’ and girls’ teams swimming boys’andgirls’teams once again challenge the School once againchallengetheSchool The Old Bradfordians (with a The OldBradfordians (witha with the water polo team on with thewaterpoloteamon depleted team) came back to depleted team)camebackto Water polo Match Old Bradfordians Swimming and Swimming and Saturday 18March. SPORTS 2016-17 Edition The Old Bradfordian 32/33 BGS v BGS v

Bonson pressed theSchoolandTim Hobbs, not Gill, Nick Kershaw, Johnathan Priestly andJen Some excellent teamwork from Ian Walker, Johnny up, andthenmoved away to win10-5. two tight quarters theOld Bradfordians were 4-1 duties andboth madesomeexcellent saves. After Chris Nixon andNeil Lloyd shared goalkeeping since 1984! the winningstreak going,not losing amatch last year, theOld Bradfordians wanted to keep Water polo next,andafter only narrowly winning but wascheeringontheteam. Ackroyd, whofor thefirst timewasunable to swim 2nd. The oldieswere missingtheireldestboy, Peter team managedto win,theOld Bradfordians in The canon wasthelastevent andtheSchoolA Lloyd andFrankie Williams. the Bteam from Ian Walker, Nick Kershaw, Neil Moorhouse. There were very creditable teams in Jen Bonson,Tim Hobbs, Johnny GillandSteve Nixon andJohnny GillintheMedley Relay, Ateam a creditable 2ndwithTim andBen Hobbs, Mike Relays nextandtheOld Bradfordians’ team came Williams taking2ndand3rd. put outtheirbestwithJen BonsonandFrankie 100m freestyle wasnextandThe Old Bradfordians Kershaw justmissingoutin4th. without abreak, cameacreditable 2ndwithNick lengths backstroke camenextandTim Hobbs, a very creditable 2ndand3rd respectively. Two each stroke. Tim Hobbs andJen Bonsoncame The individualmedleycamenext,onelengthof Moorhouse andJonathan Priestley. notable swimswere seenfrom 50year oldsSteve freestyle withtheirsuperstar Johnny Milner, but began andtheSchoolgot off to awininthe50m After thefamily swim, theswimmingmatch

closer swimmingmatch. year, to give theSchoola Bradfordians canmake itnext some of thenewer Old take ontheSchool,hopefully new andoldOld Bradfordians running theday. Great to see especially Bryan Townsend for thanks to allsupporters and Another great day, many have beenvery different. without him,theresult might scoring theother five goalsand Britain player, wasthedifference Steve Moorhouse, exGreat scoring oneeach. Mike Nixon andFrankie Williams Polo skills,scored two goalswith normally known for hisWater the break. the OBs a40-point leadat McKenzie andKodie Brook gave Boyd, Kristen Dobson,Struan Then, further triesfrom Harry kick-off! of thefieldtrystraight from the Joel MacFarlane scored alength The tone wasset whencentre fitter andspeedierOBs side. always likely to suittheyounger, The firmpitch at Shay Lanewas and anOld Bradfordians XV. Bradford SalemSelectXV was contested between a For the26thtime,trophy Salem RFC. a loyal memberof Bradford He wasanOld Bradfordian and of aheartattack inAugust 1992. Richard Birkett diedsuddenly Memorial Game. Richard Birkett watch theAnnual Sunday 30Aprilto Rugby Club on up at Bradford Salem sized crowd turned Yorkshire, agood- with theTour de the fixture coincided Despite thefact that 2017 Rugby Match Memorial Birkett Richard

(1972-79) Neil Klenk afternoon. entertaining up andproducing suchahugely thanked theplayers for turning to Dan Scarbrough who presented thewinningtrophy Birkett’s widow, Marilyn, In Callum’s absence, Richard own team-mates! clash of headswithoneof his his nosefollowing anaccidental to goto hospital after breaking of theOBs sideontheday, had Manchester, whowascaptain was slightly marred asCallum BGS withonedraw. The day 15 winsto Salem,10winsto The overall record isnow comfortable 67-17 winners. of victories astheyran out Bradfordians madeitahat-trick late consolation try, theOld winger Ian Critchley scored a and, although SalemSelect Boyd responded for theOBs, However, Ross Kirtlandand tries for theSelect XV. player, MarkViner, scored two former Salemand Wharfedale more even and50-year-old The second halfwasalittle

34/35 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

campaign and the He joined the business more at home on As Chairman and Chief several years ago, his growing of potatoes full time in 1952, after the shop floor than Executive, with a small legacy is evident every remembering ... on the School grounds, National Service in in the Boardroom, team of long-serving day and in every aspect enthusiastically the Army, becoming he was genuinely lieutenants, he led Wm of our business. Ken We record with sadness the deaths of the supported by the manager of the group interested in other Morrison Supermarkets will be remembered by following Old Bradfordians and offer our Headmaster, was in 1956 during his people and what they PLC through a us all for his leadership, deepest sympathy to their families and friends. imprinted in his father’s serious illness. thought. He adopted remarkable period his passion for retailing of growth, with ever- and for his great love of memory. The first self-service the same approach to increasing numbers of Morrisons’. shop opened in 1958 his workforce, always customers and plaudits followed by the first wanting the best from Whilst impossible to from City investors supermarket, which them, and the best do justice to such a intrigued by his formula opened in 1961 in a for them. full life in the space for success. Obituaries tribute about Andrew Rowland Geoffrey converted Bradford Famed for his distinctive available, there are two cinema. Morrisons then management style and Growth, however, also further themes that With thanks to to his colleagues: Lumb (1936-40) Sir Kenneth grew into a chain of Yorkshire directness, Sir brought challenges, underpinned Sir Ken’s David Moore, ‘For over twenty Duncan Morrison more than 100 stores Ken rejected modern none more so than life, both of which Obituaries Editor years, Andrew was Rowland, known to CBE by the millennium. business theory in when taking over which are relevant a core member of everyone as ‘Geoff’, (1943-50) The Morrison name favour of an approach the larger Safeway to current and Old our department and died peacefully at his became a by-word for that was much more chain in 2004. For a Bradfordians alike – made significant home on 13 April 2017 One of the School’s Dr Andrew J E Bell successful northern personal and practical, period, profits suffered a commitment to contributions to our aged 92. He lived in most distinguished (1971-81) business. observing: ‘If you don’t and investors were hard work and a success and intellectual former pupils, Sir Nottingham and leaves uneasy. However, loyalty to place. Andrew died suddenly Kenneth Duncan At the heart of the know how to run your life. He was unendingly behind a partner of 30 the company had at his home in Las Morrison CBE, died on 1 Morrison formula own business, it’s time Sir Ken appreciated curious, and, in an years, Beryl. recovered by 2006. Sir Vegas, aged 54, where February 2017 aged 85. were three Sir Ken’s to give up, isn’t it?’ that success was age of growing Ken relinquished daily he was Associate key concepts – value, On another occasion, earned and not specialisation, his Widely known as ‘Ken’ control in 2008 and Professor of History Keith Pennington quality and customers. he mused that he simply acquired. breadth of knowledge by friends, colleagues subsequently assumed at the University of (1939-44) could get a couple of Talents needed to be was truly astounding. and customers alike, he Focusing on offering the honorary post of Nevada. A classicist, checkout assistants nurtured and applied, He touched a Keith died in May transformed his father’s excellent value Life President. he won a Platmore for the cost of a non- and there was no remarkable number of 2017. Keith had fond Bradford market-stall to working-class Scholarship to executive director. However, even in this substitute for sheer students, who adored memories of the ‘Old grocery business into a households, Morrisons Brasenose College him as an instructor. He He wanted to latter role, Sir Ken’s graft, commitment School’ in Manor Row, FTSE 100 supermarket kept costs in the Oxford, graduating in brought an enthusiasm as he revealed in a remain true to the presence loomed and attention to detail. chain, which he ran business to an absolute large, keeping in touch Literae Humaniores for antiquity and the letter to the President family’s market-stall He was equally with huge success minimum – so much with the new executive with a first class degree medieval period to a in May 2014, when he philosophy – inside committed to his for more than half a so, there was allegedly team through his in ‘Mods’. He follows a world obsessed with was no longer able to the supermarkets, fresh birthplace and never century. He enjoyed a policy that telephone regular Friday fish-and- long tradition of fine the present. He had attend reunions. He food was sold from lost an opportunity unrivalled respect and calls should not be chip lunches. He didn’t classicists to emerge at a tremendous sense recalled nostalgically individual sites aptly to promote Bradford, affection from all who returned; the caller was hide his dislike of some BGS. He later became of humour and a his first day at BGS on named ‘Market Street’ which included knew him, whether as always asked to phone of the quirkier initiatives a Teaching Fellow disarming warmth. 3 September 1939 at designed to look like resisting pressure a colleague, customer back later. during the last ten years at Marlboro College He was a phenomenal the outbreak of the stalls, including in-store to relocate his or, even, competitor. Value, however, was and must have been Vermont for three talent and a remarkable Second World War, pie shops. headquarters to the years before obtaining not achieved at the relieved to see a return person. Many of us when the 11 year olds Sir Ken began working A sharp brain, a critical South following the a History Doctorate at cost of quality. Careful to his more traditional will feel a great void were evacuated to in the family business eye for detail and Safeway takeover. Stanford University. control of sourcing, approaches in more in his absence.’ premises in Moorhead while at school, aged sound common sense He was a proud with many provisions recent times, alongside His thesis, ‘Spectacular Lane in Shipley for nine, during the were more important Yorkshireman and There will be a coming directly from an improvement in Power in the Greek 1939-40. He was a evenings and school than management loyal Bradfordian. memorial service within the group, sales and profits. and Roman City’ scholarship boy under holidays. He helped his theories and mantra. for Andrew in the meant that quality Sir Ken’s life epitomises (2004), was published a Benefaction Scheme father on his market It might be described He was awarded the University’s Fall could be assured. what Bradford by Oxford University set up in 1860 and still stall during the day and as a rolled-up sleeves CBE in 1990 followed Semester. Sir Ken played his Grammar School Press and subsequently operational in 1939. checked the quality of style of management. by a knighthood in the own part, frequently wants for all of its pupils (2006) in a paperback He remembered the eggs with a candle Sir Ken went further New Year’s honours list – ensuring whatever arriving unannounced edition. He contributed David Buckingham the Headmaster, R B light at night. Retailing – invariably attired in 2000 for services to is done is done well at stores and, to the various articles to (1945-56) Graham, who at that was in his blood. With in a short-sleeved the retail industry. and not settling for bemusement of those Classical Journals, time lived in Clock typical modesty, shirt with regulation Andrew Higginson, second best, focusing David, a regular around, opening packs most recently to House; the façade of he later observed, company tie – his current chairman of on what matters and attender of the 1940s of food to check their the ‘Cambridge the then unfinished ‘I had no formal focused and down-to- Morrisons, described Sir not being distracted reunion, died on 30 freshness and rooting Companion to Cicero’. new school in Keighley education for anything earth manner came to Ken as ‘an inspirational by aspects that are July 2016. through the bins. personify the values The Chair of the Road impressed him … I learned my craft at leader and the driving token or extraneous, Not least, he that underpinned the University of Las Vegas with its ‘magnificent the dining room table force behind Morrisons understanding and understood his hugely successful History Department architectural grandeur’. with my dad talking for over half a century. respecting people wrote the following The ‘Dig for Britain’ about things.’ customers. Definitely business. Although he retired irrespective of 36/37 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition

background, working pupils built in the behalf of the Crown the Eulogy he gave at morning passes to for 40 boys at cross- was Geoff … But Geoff, same exams in 1956. hard to put every talent lower ‘garden’. Prosecution Service Robin’s funeral. leave lessons on a country camp and the ‘Rebel with a Cause’ During the scholarship to use, never forgetting He moved to the main admitting that from Saturday, another ‘win’ equally at home adding who never did things examinations at the people and place School in 1953 and, Monday to Thursday in Geoff’s eyes. Geoff lavender and unusual the orthodox way, will Queen’s, and despite from which you come. he defended, but on Geoff Smith was academically ingredients to more always be remembered Reg Petty’s injunctions not being particularly (1968-78) Leadership has been interested in sport, Fridays he did what he very bright: he had an adventurous Italian as someone who did it to revise carefully Geoff died in described as creating he joined the CCF as enjoyed most, putting enormous capacity to dishes. We sparred ‘His Way’.’ before each exam September 2016 while the conditions for soon as he was able. miscreants (not exactly learn and remember intellectually and, and of course to get in Tuscany. His close others to excel. There He progressed through his word) behind bars. things that interested although I had quite to bed early Bill and I friend Andrew Seal him, but would forget can be few better the ranks eventually Robin’s expertise an edge in modern snuck off to the OU (1966-76) writes as the simplest things examples of this than becoming Battery extended beyond languages, he was Jazz Club and heard follows: which did not matter. Sir Ken Morrison. Sergeant Major, the the West Riding as way ahead in other Dudley Moore, then Recently at a former most senior cadet in for many years he ‘I first met Geoff on the areas and he certainly a jazz pianist rather Sir Ken was immensely pupils’ cross-country the contingent. served on the Law 67 bus from Bradford knew it! Avuncular Professor William than a comedian, for proud of his family. reunion, he arrived Society’s committee to Keighley. Geoff was and engaged was Arthur Speck the first time. After They describe his Robin left school in telling me he had for Criminal Law a year younger than our Geoff. (1948-57) the exams, we had a ‘gentle humour and 1960 to read Law bought two new pairs vibrant night in London, at Work and as a peer me but we instantly ‘He famously scored William, known to all kindness … someone at Leeds University of trainers; when he dining at Jimmy’s reviewer for the Legal became friends. Geoff ‘A’ for a visionary as ‘Bill’, died in May who could, and immediately joining opened his bag, he had famously cheap Greek Services Commission. was mature beyond his poem, ‘Five Years’, 2017. His friend David would, talk with the Officer Training brought two left shoes! Restaurant in Soho This involved him years, helping his father which started, ‘Pushing Weir (1950-57) has genuine interest to Corps gaining his and celebrating with assessing the Bill in the family-run ‘Geoff had a successful through the market contributed a personal anyone. He showed T.A. commission in Sandy Ewing and other competence of pet shop from the age career in IT, working square, so many reminiscence as us all the importance 1962. Thus began London-based OBs firms of solicitors of 14 at weekends, in Germany, before mothers sighing …’ follows: of aiming high but his long association in the Coal Hole on who had applied for where he was exposed deciding on a slower A week later, when never forgetting the with the T.A. until his ‘Bill Speck was a son the Strand. a Legal Aid Franchise to the delights of real pace of life. He the English teacher practicalities of life and active involvement of Bradford and will for Criminal Law. ale and adult stories at travelled to Tuscany to realised that this was ‘After our Scholarships the humanity of those came to an end in be remembered as the Market Tavern in write children’s books actually a David Bowie were confirmed, Reg we deal with’. 1985. However, his Robin maintained a great alumnus of Keighley, and, knowing and enjoyed sampling lyric, the punishment packed the two of us Sir Ken is survived by involvement continued his connection with Bradford Grammar Geoff, sometimes the local food and was light and we all off to the Bradford his wife Lynne, Lady thereafter following Bradford Grammar School, and one of during working hours! wine. He made lifelong Reference Library to his appointment as a School assisting the guffawed and felt the leading historians Morrison, and five friends there, as he did study and write reports Trustee of the West CCF during his time Geoff could tell a story, strongly indebted to of his generation. He children. Lady Morrison everywhere he went. It on the Lister’s Mill Strike Riding Artillery Trust with Leeds University and even if it were Geoff for introducing was born to Jack and is Chairman of the was there on a recent and the foundation in which role he OTC and serving for slightly embellished, he us to the seminal Evelyn Speck and came Board of Governors visit that he lost his life. of the Independent continued for a further many years on the had the entire top deck ‘Ziggy Stardust’ album! after Drummond Road at BGS. Labour Party at the 25 years. OBA Committee and of the 67 bus in stitches ‘Geoff was kind, Geoff’s knowledge and Infant and Green Lane Mechanics Institute in as its President in 1978. with some of his tales. generous to a fault, opinions of music are Primary schools to In 1963 he graduated in Bradford in 1893. This His main committee Most are not fit to print loyal and loving to all legendary and he was a BGS firstly to Thornville Law and then attended was our first serious role was as Social but helped pass the his family, but, most stalwart of the Keighley following his elder the College of Law in archival research and Secretary, arranging for time as we caught up of all, he was a ‘good Folk Festival among brother Jack. His early Guilford prior to taking we enjoyed the long many years speakers on homework on the mate’ and he will be others. I last saw him years at BGS were his Law Society finals quiet days in the Ref for the Annual Dinner, way to school. sorely missed.’ in February 2016 at my marked by consistent Robin Irvine thereafter completing and the sombre light which resulted in a own pub singalong in scholarly success and (Irvine R.A.N.) his practical training ‘When we met again Another close friend of and the traffic noises succession of excellent Giggleswick. My sister he became well known (1950-60) articled to Dunn at the ‘Big School’, Geoff, David Whitlam from Darley street. speakers, often from and I will always picture to culturally rebellious Connell Solicitors in we both joined the (1970-78), adds the At lunchtime, we A Proud Scot, Old the legal profession. him looking remarkably fellow-spirits as a Bradford. cross-country club following: escaped to Woods Bradfordian and a hale and hearty, founder member of the On completing his Robin was a devoted which was to be the ‘… Geoff did not lack Music Shop ‘If Your respected member standing by the piano, Jazz Club with a deep training, he joined A.V. husband and family highlight of our school self-confidence. He Group Wants Guitars of the Bradford Legal knowing every damn love of the Modern Hammond Solicitors in man, marrying in 1980 days as well as in later devoured books and You’ll Do Better Buying Profession. word of the 70s’ hits I Jazz Quartet and as a Bradford in the Criminal fellow lawyer Juliette life. The five-a-side remembered and Them In Bradford’ to was singing. passionate cyclist. Robin Irvine died Defence Department. (Julie) who sadly died soccer games after recounted minutiae; he play records. Bill of on 16 January 2017 He continued to in 2012. They had two cross country training excelled at crosswords, ‘I will always remember ‘Bill and I met in course chose ‘real after a short illness. specialise in Criminal sons Alexander and were legendary. Friday read Psychology at Geoff as an instinctively Reg Petty’s Sixth Jazz’, while I opted Robin started his BGS Law for the rest of James to whom we lunchtimes were Bangor, worked in IT in kind man … When my History class and our for Slim Whitman or career at Thornville his career starting extend our sympathies. always important as the newly liberated Prague, wife became terminally subsequent careers Buddy Holly. These where like many of his his own firm Irvine & Written by Gordon teams for Saturday‘s became a teacher, ill, Geoff dropped were profoundly dusty days among generation he enjoyed Company in the early Green (1953-61). With matches were always tutor, took up every everything, came down influenced by that great old newspapers in the extensive, almost 1980’s. Although he grateful thanks With published on the cause he felt strongly to London and insisted teacher, culminating the Reference Library jungle like grounds at initially concentrated grateful thanks to notice boards and it about, sometimes on helping out for a in our both winning set a tone for Bill’s Thornville, and racing on Defence work, Godfrey Hope (OB) was always a relief to at the expense of his couple of days (and Hastings Scholarships professional scholarly his Dinky racing cars he ultimately started for his permission to see your name. Away health. He was happy drinking all my claret). in History, to Queen’s career, which was down the tracks also to prosecute on base this Obituary on matches meant early stirring scrambled eggs Kind and involved, that College Oxford in the always marked by 38/39 The Old Bradfordian 2016-17 Edition meticulous accuracy, creating respect for his works on Tom Paine Keith Stretton of Disraeli’s position. moved on to work as a now part of ITV London. 1959. He had a couple and respect for sources. meticulous, evidence- and Robert Southey. (1939-46) This was all compelling Computer Programmer Subsequently he gained of jobs in Bradford rooted scholarship stuff to those of us who and Systems Analyst, promotion to the role before he and his father ‘At Oxford we remained ‘He found new friends Keith Stretton died and deep affection were 16 going on 17. It working for Girobank. of Operations Director took the major decision good friends: we joined and admirers in his peacefully on 8 July for his support and brought arguments of When some years later at London Weekend to purchase a bookshop the Labour Club and devoted leadership 2016 after a short illness, commitment to his the Victorian age alive in this organisation was Television’s TV studio (Greenwood’s the Socialist Society of the local branch of a beloved husband, younger scholars front of us. Here was a taken over by Alliance complex on the Bookshop) in the together and we both the RSPCA. He had father and grandfather. and close colleagues. married while students always loved America teacher whose lessons and Leicester, there South Bank. centre of Halifax. At the In addition, his at Queen’s and stayed as a vital source of the were compelling followed the inevitable After the franchise same time, they went involvement in and on at Oxford for central cultures of the to watch but who shedding of jobs. After merger of Granada and on to form a printing leadership of his graduate work after our Twentieth Century. was also, it turned three years Donald was Carlton Television in company, providing professional bodies, first degrees. Bill was a This very active out, approachable, made redundant but 2004, Richard departed stationery for many in including in due course constant practitioner retirement led him to encouraging and just was then taken on as to set up his own media the area. Godfrey was his Presidency of The of the Air Clarinet and a reinforcement of as good at analysis as as a consultant until his consulting business a very caring and loyal Historical Association. John Tarbett evenings in Bill’s room his professional and he was at bringing the late sixties. in 2005, undertaking employer. He married (1970-73) He was an international saw his supple fingers personal comradeship past to life. ‘He had many interests project work for Heather in 1980 and figure in historical bopping rhythmically with Mary Geiter – John Tarbett, a former Great teachers change including travel, European and American they had two children research and his work as the light cerebral dating back to the teacher of History and lives, and he changed gardening, crossword media companies. This – Caroline and James on the 17th, 18th textures of MJQ, early 1990s – and to Economic History at mine. Yet after I was 18, and other competitions; included involvement (an Old Bradfordian). century was extremely Miles Davis or Gerry publications with her on BGS in the 1970s, died I hardly went back to he was a member of in major build and Godfrey joined Halifax well respected, and Mulligan filled the space Colonial America and in May 2017. He is Bradford and our paths ‘Mensa’ and gained technology projects at Rotary Club in 1978 anyone working between our words. with her and Andrew remembered with never crossed again. ‘O’ levels in Gaelic and the BBC. He also spent and one of his proudest on English history Browning in co-editing great affection by I never got the chance Spanish. He is survived 12 months managing moments in his 37 years ‘Bill continued his or Anglo-American the memoirs of Sir John scores of grateful in life to thank him by his three sons, major work for the of membership was involvement in cycling, history of those periods Reresby, MP for York pupils for his excellent for being the brilliant, Andrew, Tony and John, digital media centre becoming President becoming captain of had to include Bill’s in 2008. and a significant figure teaching, dynamism inspiring teacher he was.’ and grandson Tom.’ at Pacific Quay in a resurgent University contributions. As well as in the politics of Charles and good cheer. Glasgow. However, he Many of his Rotarian Cycling Club supported becoming a leading and He will be greatly missed. II’s reign. He was respected as derived even greater friends remarked that by Jim Thompson, respected expert on a fine teacher and satisfaction from the he was a popular, hard- fellow Queensman ‘Bill returned regularly his chosen periods, Bill came to be regarded challenges he faced in working and dignified and Yorkshireman. to his intellectual and Bruce Whitfield was a methodological as a true friend. his final charitable role President. Godfrey and It was reported that personal headsprings Bruce Whitfield, who innovator and an early at CTBF, to which he Heather were keen in a Bradford expat and never lost his A former pupil, David attended BGS in the advocate of the value of was deeply committed, caravanners and bought discussion of ‘Yorkshire’s sense of the essential Robinson has this vivid 1970s, a much-loved Richard Wilson computing in historical compared with the their first caravan just a greatest sporting rootedness of life recollection of his figure among his large (1966-75) research. stresses and demands few months after their hero’ divided between in its particulars. Bill teaching style: circle of friends, who ‘After a year at Yale had been in declining Richard has died of corporate business. daughter Caroline was the supporters of understood the need ‘He was the best University he moved health, died 30 aged 58 after a short born in December 1981. Len Hutton (Pudsey) for political history teacher I have ever Richard is survived by on to Chairs at Hull and October 2016. illness. He was Chief They had 33 years of and Ernest Ward to be positioned in had in my life. With his wife Yvonne and his Leeds Universities. From Executive of the charity, memorable caravan (Bradford Northern), an understanding of two children, George Leeds, he eventually John Tarbett, the past the Cinema and holidays with friends he championed the the cultural context and Francesca. took early retirement wasn’t dead; it was Donald Modling Television Benevolent and visiting their son claims of Vic Sutton, of the times. His and a well-deserved drama. In the Lower Wilson Fund (CTBF). After A proud Yorkshireman, James in Cambridge the trailblazer in the masterful disdain for Emeritus Chair but Sixth in 1970 he was the (1947-54) BGS Richard studied he was a keen follower and London. Godfrey Tour de France for obstructive disciplinary never retired from nearest thing I’ve seen Geography at Bristol of sport and remained and Heather loved Tommy Simpson. Bill boundaries and his Donald sadly passed history, nor it from in real life to the Robin University, a subject a loyal fan of Bradford music and on their duly obtained a DPhil deep scholarship of away, aged 79, 2 him. He became a Williams character in to which he remained Bulls Rugby League caravan trips to London, for his thesis on politics literature as well as November 2016 after Special Professor at ‘Dead Poets’ Society.’ devoted throughout team. they often saw shows in in the reign of Queen politics is demonstrated a short illness. His Nottingham and his He acted out clashes his life. the West End and went Anne. The long 18th in his work on Swift, elder brother, Leslie flow of important between Gladstone His career and interest to concerts at the Royal century remained the Southey and Thomas M Wilson, writes: Godfrey Platt publications, marked by and Disraeli, his gown in TV began in 1984 Albert Hall. Godfrey core of Bill’s important Paine. He was a much (1952-58) meticulous respect for flying behind him as he ‘He was known at BGS when he joined retired in 2006 and contributions to loved and respected the archival evidence leapt from one empty for his talent at boxing Granada Television Godfrey died 8 had nine more happy historical research colleague, friend and and a wide-ranging desk to the other. rather than academic in the North West; December 2015. He years of caravanning and his stream of fellow-professional to understanding of ‘Gladsone says this,’ achievement. However, his experience with was born in Shipley on holidays and family publications marked many. He was a great context, continued. He he’d say, summarising he went on to Bradford Granada spanned 23 August 1941 and holidays in the South of him as one of the credit to Bradford led by example in the the Liberal position Technical College and human resources, started his school life France. Godfrey was a leading historical Grammar School and local history community on the politics of the gained a BSc in Textile production and at Bradford Grammar loving husband and a scholars of his the city of his birth and of the North West 1870s with pithiness Design. Subsequently property management School in 1952, where devoted family man and generation. early manhood and he and Carlisle region, reminiscent of the he worked at different before moving to he met his lifelong Heather, Caroline and will be much missed.’ ‘Bill’s career as an creating new friends great Reg Petty before times for several textile London in 1998 to friend Malcolm James treasure the time academic historian took and a community of jumping across to firms in Bradford. With become General McCoubrie. He spent they were lucky enough him from lectureships at scholarship, while another desk and giving the decline of the Manager of London seven happy years at to spend with him. Exeter and Newcastle, publishing definitive us a declaratory precis Textile Industry, he Weekend Television – the school and left in