AGS Magazine June 1974

THE

ABERDEEN GRAMMAR SCHOU MAGAZINE

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Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine poth year No. 212 (New Series Both year No. 203) Vol. LXXVII

Juh•E 1974

No. 1

The Magazine is published under the auspices of The Former Pupils' Club in June each year General Editor

Alistair G. Gracie, 45 Colthill Crescent, Milltimber, Aberdeenshire.

Editor of the School Section

Alexander Tait, M.A.

Editor of Notes, Obituaries and Marriages

Alan G. Campbell, LL.B. 178 Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.

Advertisements

J. A. G. Mearns, Mearns and Gill Advertising Ltd., 7 Carden Place, Aberdeen.

Secretary of the F.P. Club

Brian K. Crookshanks, , M.A., LL.B. 15 Crown Street, Aberdeen.

The General Editor invites contributions from F.P.s for the next issue of the Magazine and requests that all copy, both for him and for the Notes Editor, be submitted by May 15, 1975. Readers are asked to support the advertisers, without whose support publication of the Magazine would not be possible.

Printed for The Former Pupils' Club at The University Press Aberdeen

CONTENTS General Section—

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The Headmaster's Message . . . .

The School's Past Presentation to Mr. J. V. Skinner . . . .

Dog's-eye View. . . .

Ugandan Safari . .

Holland and Belgium 1973 . .

Reason and Nature . . . .

Classical V-1929

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School Section—

Office-Bearers .

Random Notes .

Meet the Prefects .

Staff Notes Sporting Activities C.C.F. Notes .

Music Notes .

Society Notes .

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Office-Bearer Annual General Meeting . .

Club Centre .

Centre Report .

F.P. Club Accounts .

Club Centre Accounts The Annual Dinner . .

Section Reports .

Notes About Old Boys . .

Marriages . . .

Obituaries. .

New Members . .

Club President .

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Mustrations—

Presentation to Mr. Skinner . .

Classical V-1929 The Junior Drama Club . .

The Canoe Club . .

The Rowing Club

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An asterisk • appearing after the name of an F.P. indicates be is a member of the F.P. Club. The years appearing after the name of an F.P. are those of his attendance at School.

The Headmaster's Message Perhaps the most significant development in the changing role of the School during the past session was the admission of girls to the First Year. Understandably Former Pupils living in the city of Aberdeen must have thought it strange to see girls sporting the Grammar School badge and no doubt many will have wondered what effect the presence of girls would have on their old school. It is therefore a pleasure for me to be able to report here that the girls have already brought credit, not only to themselves but to their School, by the obvious pride with which they wear the School uniform and by their general enthusiasm for taking part in the corporate life of the School.

Furthermore, they have achieved their first successes in inter-school competitions, having won the Junior North First Year Hockey Tournament and the Royal Scottish Country Dancing Under i6 Shield.

The boys too have had their successes in sport, music, drama and of course in the academic field. Three of our senior boys were selected to play for the Scottish Schoolboys Hockey XI against England, Ireland and Wales during the Easter holidays and one of these boys was in fact Captain of the XI. Our rowing teams have had a good year and have won several trophies in the face of strong opposition.

In music four of our boys were selected to take part in an Easter course with the National Youth Orchestra.

These successes, together with the sound academic achievements are a clear indication of the spirit that pervades our School and I would hope that this will encourage Former Pupils to continue to support their old School and to take an active interest in it in the years ahead.

I should like too, to thank the F.P. Club for the generous support it has given us in the past year and to assure its members that their help is much appreciated by all the Clubs and Societies.

Finally, I should like to extend to all former pupils a cordial invitation to revisit their School, should they wish to do so.

3

The School's Past . . .

Despite the change of name, visitors and requests for information about the Grammar School continue to arrive quite regularly. Much of this involves a simple issue of information or a tour of the present establishment with a particular visit to see the relics and mementos of the School's past which are still displayed with pride in the School library. For example, as this year commemorates the 1 5oth anniversary of the death of the most famous of the School's Former Pupils, George B. Gordon, alias, Lord Byron, one was not really very surprised to receive a phone call from the Victoria and Albert Museum requesting information about what was available in the School for display in the exhibition being set up this summer in his memory.

Unfortunately there is very little in that direction because, few schools have the powers of foresight to predict which of their proteges will achieve a sufficient degree of fame or notoriety in later life to merit a detailed case study of moral and mental attributes.

But this traffic is not all one way fortunately and information is contributed as well as requested. Only this year we were given a newspaper cutting from a lady in the area, detailing the work done by a stone mason in Aberdeen while the School was being built. This was James Milne who later became Harbour Superintendant at Peterhead. As a young man he was given the task of carving by hand, the Coat of Arms of Aberdeen which is placed above the old central door of the main block, the original building. This was carried out without any help from "modern pneumatic granite cutting appliances".

He was also engaged in building the railway tunnels between the Joint Station and Kittybrewster. Mr. Milne's great-grandson, Neil Milne, 39 Burns Road, is a former pupil of the School.

Apart from the well-known links with Schoolhill, like the belfry and the bell, little remains of that building, but perhaps some F.P. could shed some light or another possible link, the grandfather clock situated in the main staff-room. While doing research on the School's financial position in the mid nineteenth century it was found that a clock had been purchased for £5 in 1773 or thereby out of the limited funds available from the Dun bequest. Another quite separate line of inquiry— the Town Council Book of Indentures which recorded the apprenticeships entered upon in the town—happened to show that a certain Hugh Gordon, clockmaker, was active in 1773. This raises the question about whether this eighteenth-century purchase could be the clock now in the staff-room, as it is certainly made by Hugh Gordon of Aberdeen. Comments or information about this possibility would be welcomed.

In fact this might well be an appropriate moment to ask F.P.s to search their memories for any information which might be of interest and use in ensuring that as full a record as possible of the old School's past is compiled to supplement what has been already gathered together in "Bon Record".

The Editor would be very grateful to have observations, information or anecdotes, etc., about anything considered to be relevant to the School's past!

4

Presentation to Mr. John V. Skinner On the afternoon of Friday, 22 June 1973 a unique and very pleasant ceremony took place in the Library of the School when a presentation was made to the recently retired Rector, Mr. John Vass Skinner. The presentation took the form of Mr. Skinner's portrait in oils which had been skilfully executed by Mr. Joseph Edwards. A replica of the portrait was handed over to Mr. Skinner, while the original portrait was gifted to the Education Committee and entrusted by them to the School for safekeeping. It now hangs in the Library on the same wall as that of Mr. Skinner's predecessor the late Sir James J. Robertson.

The portrait had been subscribed by Former Pupils of the School and a number of interested parents and friends. There was a goodly representation of these present at the ceremony, and a much appreciated touch was the inclusion in the audience of a representative group of senior boys from the School. Mrs. Skinner was presented with a wrist watch.

In making the formal presentation to Mr. Skinner the President of the Club, Mr. George E. C. Barton, said: "It is with very great pleasure, and an equally great sense of the privilege that is mine, that I welcome you as President of the F.P. Club to this function, the happy purpose of which is to present on behalf of the F.P. subscribers to our good friend, the late Rector, his portrait in oils as an ever-mindful testimony to the happy association which he maintained for over thirteen years as the all-important link between the School and the Club.

"It is now fifty years since I first became associated with the Grammar School and indeed my own portrait has hung (and still hangs) in the main corridor for almost all that time though I am bound to say I am flanked by fourteen others in the photo of the then ist XV. I feel today, however, that my wheel has turned full circle, for fourteen years ago, almost to the day, I was involved in the presentation of the portrait of Sir J. J. Robertson, that Olympian among schoolmasters, and on the 8th September 1959 as vice-president of the Club I presided at a dinner held by the Club Executive to welcome Mr. Skinner and expressed what was uppermost in the minds of all F.P.s—considerable speculation, not to say trepidation, as to the man who sought to fill the shoes of the redoubtable `J.J.' Consideration of Mr. Skinner's qualifications showed, not only that he was another classical import from the West of Scotland, but that he was a man of the highest intellectual quality who had, by dint of considerable post-graduate study, wide teaching experience and contact with men and matters, fitted himself in the fullest possible degree for the post of Rector of Aberdeen Grammar School. At the same time I assured him of the Club's fullest support in anything concerning the welfare of the School. And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, as I look back over the thirteen years of John Skinner's tenure of office, I can say in all honesty how well he measured up to the tasks, the difficult tasks, the sometimes distasteful tasks, which fell to his hand and I should like to think, Sir, that through those years you found equal support and encouragement from the F.P. Club. For my part I can assure you how greatly we valued your counsel in the 5

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine deliberations of the Club Executive; your help in minimising calls on the Amenities Fund, and your almost perfect attendance at the various centre dinners and the annual ball. May I also thank you for your unfailing courtesy in inviting the officials of the Club to share those happy musical and dramatic evenings which are such a feature of modern school life.

"But above all I would thank you for the quality of your replies to the toast of the School at the Annual Dinners of the Parent Club and the other centres. These have always been of the greatest acceptance in your choice of words and in your sweet reasonableness in sometimes trying circumstances, for not long after you had set your hand as helmsman to the good ship Bon Record (which had weathered many a storm in its long and noble history) the winds of educational change began to blow more strongly; there was much buffeting by contrary winds, dangerous shallows had to be navigated, and so many cross currents bore down upon the ship that many who had the welfare of Bon Record at heart were at a loss to know whether those who decided its destiny were directed by real comprehension or merely comprehensiveness.

"I need not enumerate the blows our good ship sustained—suffice bowed it to say that, through them all, our helmsman `kept his cool', demanded, occasion the when tacked to, had he when storm to the and at all times behaved with that quiet, almost reserved dignity which is the hallmark of the classical scholar, and of John Skinner in particular. In all his efforts I am sure he had the support of a loyal crew aboard and ashore, and before he left the helm I believe he felt his ship was entering calmer waters though it was yet too soon to say whether the shore of the promised land was in sight.

"With one thing however—nay, with two things—I am satisfied he and his crew would take issue with the Lords of the Admiralty—why change the name of the ship which had served so long, so honourably and so well: and why change the name of its master?

"It is this which, in the midst of our happiness this afternoon introduces a note of sad uniqueness to our function—for this is the last opportunity the F.P. Club will have of presenting a portrait to the Rector of Aberdeen Grammar School. It is a break with tradition—a regrettable break with a tradition which dates back to the middle of the thirteenth century through a long line of thirty-nine illustrious Rectors who have served this School and, through it, this city, right well.

"And so, today, we honour the 4oth holder of the office of Rector, John Vass Skinner, whose extraordinarily wide background qualifications were summed up before his coming as being academic, literary, linguistic, military, educational and humanitarian. By our contact with him over thirteen years I would readily endorse all these qualities and I would add others by my own experience of him—he is a man who does does not wear his heart on his sleeve: he is a thinking man who quiet not parade his thoughts or his learning: and above all he has that dignity and reserve which may be loosely summed up in that somewhat old-fashioned but nevertheless meaningful term `gentleman'.

6

Presentation to Mr. Skinner

7 "When we were considering where to hold this function we were glad to find that our numbers indicated the Library as being the most suitable place. I was personally glad for three reasons. Firstly, I always think of John Skinner in terms of intimate friendship: secondly, I am sure he feels most at home in the company of books: and thirdly, it allows us to shape our thoughts and feelings in the company of his immediate predecessor `J.J.' and of that other outstanding figure in our long line of Rcctors—Morland Simpson—for these portraits which look down on us are not only a tribute to great scholarship, leadership and literary or intellectual eminence: they serve also to visualise and preserve the traditions of the School and to strengthen its influence as a living force in the minds and in the lives of its pupils. That is perhaps the most significant feature of today's ceremony—it symbolises the idea of the School as a living, continuing entity and strives to strengthen the links which bind the School to its former pupils.

"And I am satisfied Ladies and Gentlemen, that the addition to our walls of the portrait of John V. Skinner, 4oth Rector, will serve to maintain the traditions of this old School, whatever its name or the title of its master. It cannot but engender a spirit of loyalty to one's fellows: it cannot but inculcate ideals, and stimulate that slumbering ambition which is the birthright of youth and an important factor in the education of any age.

"And now, Ladies and Gentlemen, before I formally ask Mr. Skinner to accept his portrait and the replica which he is to have for his own keeping, I am going to break with tradition and unveil it for two reasons : first, that you may see what an excellent job the artist made of it; and second (and I make this point for the F.P.s among us) I would ask you to notice the unusual feature in the top left hand corner—the window through which may be seen the clock tower. This was the artist's idea, devised to suit the composition of the picture, but all F.P.s will welcome it because, in addition to the magenta and green F.P. tie which the Rector is wearing, it serves to symbolise for ever the close association between the Club and the School through the Rector, for you will recall that the clock was gifted to the School by the members of the F.P. Club in Shanghai.

"Finally, may I say how greatly we rejoice in seeing the Rector in such good shape after the unlikely hazards of having his portrait painted.

"And so, Sir, it is my very pleasant privilege to offer you on behalf of all F.P. subscribers, this portrait and this replica, in recognition of all you meant to the School and the Club during your thirteen distinguished years as Rector."

In his reply the Rector said it was notoriously difficult to pass judgment on a portrait of oneself or to say how good a likeness it was.

This was just as true of pen-portraits as of those done in oils and listening to Mr. Barton he could only hope that others recognised his description better than he was able to do himself. Mr. Barton had been Chairman of the Executive of the Former Pupils' Club when he had taken office as Rector in 1959 and it was perhaps fitting that he should

Aberdeen Grammar School Magatine now be presiding, in a more exalted capacity, at this ceremony to mark the end of his formal association with the Club. He had come to know Mr. Barton very well in the intervening years, not only as a representative of the Former Pupils' Club but also as a personal friend, and was grateful for this opportunity of expressing his warm appreciation of the many kindnesses he had received from him and, in particular, his thanks for the generous tribute he had just paid him.

Sitting for his portrait, the Rector said, had been a most interesting experience, although he had to confess that he had never realised the hazards involved. Most of those present would be aware that he had fractured his ankle in the process. It had happened quite simply. Mr. Edwards, the artist, had suggested one morning after he had been sitting immobile for some time that he should take a "break" and he had done just that I Stepping down from the dais he had taken a couple of steps only to have his ankle double up under him. Fortunately the painting was not a full-length one and the plaster which he had worn for the remainder of the sittings did not therefore appear in the finished portrait!

Most people who sat for a portrait tended to be somewhat apprehensive about the result and stories were legion about the disappointment, even outrage, felt by sitters when the moment of truth arrived.

It was said of the Principal of one of the Scottish Universities that, after studying his portrait for several minutes, he had remarked that he thought he recognised the tie he had been wearing. The Rector for his part felt he must honestly admit that he could recognise in the portrait just unveiled the lineaments he had to face in the shaving mirror every morning. Some artists in this day and age might not be altogether happy to receive such a tribute but he felt that Mr. Edwards did not come into this category and would accept the tribute in the spirit in which it was offered. He would like to thank him for the interest and care he had taken in carrying out the commission and for the many interesting hours he had enjoyed in his company.

The audience, the Rector then went on to say, would see from the programme that he had a dual function to perform—to accept the portrait from the President of the Former Pupils' Club and then, having formally accepted it, to hand it over to the Education Committee for safekeeping in the School. He could remember vividly, when he first came to the Grammar School, his feelings when he found himself taking Morning Assembly under the austere gaze of Morland Simpson and the more quizzical glance of his distinguished predecessor, Sir James Robertson. It was a sobering thought to realise now that he was about to take his place in this august company on the walls of the School. He was deeply appreciative of the honour done him by the Former Pupils in commissioning the portrait and would like to thank all those, including the many who were unable to be present at this ceremony, who had contributed to it. He had always been conscious of the great debt the School owed to its Former Pupils and he would always be grateful for the support and encouragement he had gained personally from his association with them. It was good to know that the links between the Club and the School were to continue and that 8

Dog's-ye View

9 his successor would benefit as he had done from them. He extended his warmest good wishes to all members of the Club and expressed the hope that it would continue to flourish and be a rallying point for Former Pupils in the changing circumstances of the modern world.

The Rector then formally accepted the portrait and requested Mr. Pirie, Convener of the Education Committee, to accept it in turn on behalf of the Local Authority.

Mr. Barton thereafter handed over Mrs. Skinner's gift, expressing the gratitude of all who had been associated with the School for the warm interest she had always taken in its affairs. Mr. Skinner acknowledged the gift on behalf of his wife, acting on the principle (her principle) that there was no point in keeping a dog and barking yourself.

Mr. Roy Pirie, Convener of the Education Committee accepted the portrait on behalf of the Committee and entrusted it to the School. He congratulated the artist on the excellence of the portrait and thanked him on behalf of the subscribers. After the new Headmaster, Mr. Robert D. Gill, had formally accepted the portrait the vice-chairman of the F.P. Club Executive Mr. Neil I. W. Meldrum expressed a comprehensive vote of thanks.

Dog's-eye View Human addicts of television are all too common. The birth rate can scarcely keep up with them. But canine ones—well, who would not be sceptical of such an idea?

Recently, however, I heard the true story from some relatives of a collie bitch (not, I confess, an Aberdeen one) who, quite in the manner of her owners and (alleged) betters, cannot drag herself or be dragged away from the box. Whether she understands what she sees is neither here nor there. The fact remains that as soon as anyone walks to the set and twiddles the knob that turns the key that opens the treasurehouse, this dog bounds across to it and impatiently awaits developments. The screen is blank for the moment, but her nose and eyes are all of six inches away from it, if as far, twitching and staring in anticipation of some luscious treat. And when the picture appears she is beside herself with joy and excitement, her attention as fixed as a nail to the wall, exactly like the folk among whose feet she spends her life, who think that a scamper in the park and a few biscuits are man's most generous gifts to his best friend.

It seems that this dog does more than merely watch television. She rubs her snout against the screen and licks it, especially if she approves of the programme. If it were possible, she would eat what she sees.

She would, of course, suffer indigestion, or worse, very rapidly.

But how in her hunger could she be expected to know that, confronted as she is by such appetising dishes as fried Frost, chopped Coleman, mashed Morecambe, and toasted Tarbuck ?

Match of the Day is a particular favourite of hers. She is as active as any of the footballers on view, for she bounces up and down on all

IO

Aberdeen Grammar School Magatine

four legs as though the mat beneath her were a trampoline. This performance tends to come between the human audience in the room and their pleasure, and they remonstrate accordingly. But the dog is too preoccupied to notice, and her owners too soft-hearted, or perhaps too amused actually to shift her. When the ball sails towards her she prepares to catch it in her jaws; and her disappointment when the goalkeeper catches it in his arms instead is equalled only by her determination not to let it escape next time.

I feel that the B.B.C. and I.T.V. would be glad to provide a red carpet and a palatial kennel for this dog, the first leading to the second, which would have inside a television set adapted to her needs. Some sort of award might be in order, too: say, four-legged viewer of the year.

GORDON ALLAN (1939-51)

Ugandan Safari A former President of the F.P. Club sends details of a safari in Uganda, one of the highlights of a stay in a country regularly in the headlines of the British Press.

We are indebted to him for such a detailed and concise diary of events.

Fri. zo. Rose at 5.3o to start our first safari. Called at Makerere University to arrange rendezvous with Olga (Russian), two Africans and an Armenian, also going to south-west.

At 9.3o we crossed the Equator near Nabusanke. Elevenses at Masaka with Olga and Co. Called on friend who teaches at Aga Khan school. Bananas, pine-apples, tomatoes grow freely in open air. Many herds of large-horned cattle. Farthest south of our whole tour was at Kabanyonyi, 423 kilometres from Kampala. We spent the night up in the hills at Butubere school-house, and saw Ursa Major but not Stella Polaris. Kabale is Uganda's highest town-6,136 feet above sea.

Tarmac ends here; subsequent roads consist of marram, a rough surface.

Sat. 2,I. Fine rainbow beyond morning mist in valley. We drove over a really rough road, steep and twisting, to Lake Bunyonyi, a beautiful sheet of water. Scent of clover. Sticky willies. Local men playing drums at road-side. Returned to Butubere.

Sun. zz. Easter Day. Returned to the lake and hired two canoes— hollowed-out tree-trunks. Oarsmen rowed us to Bwana Island, an ex-leper colony, now a Rehabilitation Centre. Some excellent modern buildings—church, school, dispensary, workshop, office, tea-room, shop.

After lunch, we motored along other wild roads to the far southwest. In the forest, we saw baboons, bamboos and tomatoes. Road summit is 7,810 feet above sea. From Kanaba Gap there is a magnificent view across wide plain to Muhavura (13,540 feet) and other great hills on Rwanda border. Spent night at Mutolere school-house.

Mon. z3. Rain. I mean rain. Not the trifling showers we sometimes have in Britain. A real tropical thunder-and-lightning storm woke me

Ilolland and Belgium 1973 It at 6 a.m. and continued until nine. We left about noon, the day brightening.

Our road entered "The Impenetrable Forest", and our car, fully loaded, performed nobly in tackling the steep, rough, winding ascent to Ruhizha Rest-House. Fine view to east. Superb view to north-west, of Lake Edward and the cloud-capped Rwenzori, 7o miles away.

Tues. 24. Bright sunshine again. Varied scents. Amaryllis Hippeastra. Coffee estates. Tea plantations. Gorges. Wolfram mine. Butterflies. Panoramas. And always heat.

Nearness of frontier is shown by "Tenez la gauche" notices every now and again, warning drivers from the French-speaking Zaire (former Belgian Congo) to drive on the left in ex-British Uganda.

Wed. 25. Tropic dawn. We rise early then set off with Lam, a park warden, for a tour of the Game Reserve. We saw lions on ground, lioness on tree branch, elephant, buffalo, kop, topi, impala, and numerous birds on the wing, on trees and in undergrowth. Vultures and maribou storks are repulsive creatures.

In afternoon we skirted Kigezi Game Reserve, seeing more elephant, warthog, baboon, hippopotamus. For one hour we got back on a tarmac road; what a pleasure.

After five days and nights roughing it, we decided to treat ourselves to two in a top-class hotel, with all mod. cons. Bath. Tea in garden. Bathe in open-air swim-pool. Beautiful yellow birds. Elephant across the road. Hippos in lake. Beetles. Bats. Grand sunset. Dinner included tilapia, a quite tasty cross between haddock and sole.

EROSCA

Holland and Belgium 1973 A party of forty-three boys and four members of staff left Aberdeen on a Friday evening for a five-day visit to Belgium and Holland. The long journey south was spent in the time-honoured pursuits of eating and card-playing. Jig-saws, too, were produced—for the enjoyment of some and the annoyance of others! Arriving in London early on Saturday we were taken on a short tour of the city. We learnt that Charing Cross was once "Chore Reine" Cross, and that Pudding Lane had nothing to do with the Christmas or any other, variety, but was where poultry was eviscerated! Interesting, certainly, but the audience was none too receptive at seven in the morning . . . On to breakfast at Victoria, thence by rail to Dover and the crossing to Ostend.

As we neared Ostend speculation mounted as to who our coach driver for the trip would be. Would it be Carlos again? So much was heard of the gentleman that one could only be disappointed when he failed to materialise. Julien, too, made his mark, if only for his thoughtfulness on the subject of souvenirs . . .

Our first night on the Continent was spent in Blankenberge, a Belgian seaside resort, with a good expanse of sand. A resort very popular with the British, particularly Mr. Jenkins of Birmingham who, the story goes, was presented with a silver cup by the honest

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Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

Blankenbergers in recognition of his stamina in visiting the town over a period of some thirty years. The present inhabitants must have viewed with much less favour the party of madmen who that evening brought havoc to the one-way system when let loose on a pedal-car.

Pupils had been forbidden such dangerous pursuits—quite rightly— for at times the leader of the party seemed quite set on resigning his position and taking his lieutenants with him—(head-first into the harbour!).

For the next three nights we were to stay in Noordwijk and make this a centre for visiting neighbouring places of interest. On the way we visited a windmill at Sluis, still in working order though zoo years old or more. The railings on the outside platform looked to be the originals and therefore suspect, but the only misfortune to befall was for one member of the party to lose his wallet—twice! We then crossed by ferry to Vlissingen (Flushing) on the Island of Walcheren.

(Now no longer an island in fact, due to successful efforts to reclaim land from the sea.) The whole of Walcheren is below sea level as the dykes testify.

After lunch we spent a short time in Rotterdam, the Netherlands' second city and the largest seaport in the world. From the top of the Euromast (60o ft.) we had a tremendous view of the city and the port.

On to the Hague and Madurodam—the miniature Holland—containing accurate models of many buildings and monuments from all over the country. Madurodam was built by funds donated by the parents of George Maduro, to serve as a memorial to their son, a student, who died in a Nazi concentration camp in the last war. In this miniature city we were to see the Euromast which we had climbed so recently, the Peace Palace in the Hague which we were to visit two days later and the Great Church in Middleburg, the town where we had lunched that day. The whole city is full of action—the docks work, trains speed along the rail system, the motor-ways are busy with traffic.

Mention of Holland brings tulips to mind. At this time of the year, of course, none arc to be seen, but other things traditionally Dutch were at hand. We visited a clog factory at Bovenkirk and were fascinated to see how quickly an expert could produce a clog from a shapeless block of wood. We were also able to see over a cheese factory at a nearby farm. Great vats of cheese in the early stages are hardly appetising yet samples provided proved quite the contrary and a brisk trade ensured. (I doubt whether many of the excellent cheeses bought ever reached Aberdeen.)

Day 4 also saw us in Amsterdam, where unfortunately our proposed visit to a diamond house had been cancelled. Schoolboys (and schoolteachers) are not considered potential customers. We cruised through the canals and our guide pointed out many of the interesting sights to us. (Mr. Spence in turn pointed out to her that "back-side" was only used in certain contexts, ensuring that her commentaries in future would be grammatically correct if less piquant . . .) On both sides of the canals are to be seen the tall, narrow houses, their gables equipped with hooks to haul furniture up to the upper storeys. We watched intently for cars to fall into the water—none obliged, despite the fact

Reason and Nature

13

that one per day, somewhere, with or without occupants, ends up at the bottom. We passed 263 Prinsengracht, where Annc Frank hid for three years from the Nazis. Later we were given some free time; the highbrows headed for the Rijksmuseum, housing the finest collection of Rembrandts in the world, including the famous "Night Watch", those less culturally inclined got no further than C. & A's!

Part of our last day in Holland was spent at the seaside, at Scheveningen, known to some as "the Hague by the sea", to others as Holland's Blackpool. Spare moments at Noordwijk had been spent on the beach too, where some (who dared) swam, and most played football— played with vigour, determination and complete disregard, in some cases, for the rules. Casualties included one broken nose and four bored goal posts, who nevertheless bottled up their feelings well.

On the return journey we visited one of the two famous potteries at Delft. Here we experienced some of our moments of greatest tension as we wandered through the small rooms with their tables laden with the famous blue and white earthenware. Thence to Ghent and the Castle of the Counts of Flanders. All were intrigued by the torture instruments on display. Safely, however, on to Bruges, for the last night of the trip. This was enlivened by the presence in the same hotel of a French school party. Whether the "entente cordiale" was strengthened by this or not is doubtful, but it did provide an opportunity to practice spoken French!

The next day we set off for Ostend, Dover and eventually Aberdeen, arriving tired, certainly, but with many memories of a varied, interesting and very enjoyable trip. I am sure that all members of the party would wish to thank Mr. Spence for all the trouble he took to ensure that the visit was the great success it proved to be.

Reason and Nature Since mankind to reason came, Things have never been the same.

If reason to the heavens look And reads from all its wisest books It will see like you or me, That ambition love and hate Are not controlled by any state, Or any creed that there may be.

Unity is strength we know, But whither do we really go ?

Nature ruled by God alone Its wisdom deep has always shown.

Man has nature tried to tame To bring himself both wealth and game.

Our rivers once so clear and clean With filth and rubbish now arc seen.

We exploit everything we see All life—and land—and lake and tree.

14

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine The deepest mystery of them all Has nature all of us inthrall ?

Love is life and very strong To its charm we all belong.

Man is Noble wise no serf He can not control the rate of birth.

Our use of science now we fear, Thinking it well may cost us dear.

We pray before it is too late, That by some miracle of fate, A leader great and strong may rise, With power to act with speed, yet wise Enough to find the complex way To lead man back to sanity.

A. H. P. FERGUSON

Classical V — 1929

A former pupil traces the careers of his classmates of more than forty years ago.

The Editor welcomes similar contributions from anyone else willing to put pen to paper.

In the meantime, read on and try to put a face to the name . . .

James Stephen. Took an Arts Degree and became a Minister. Nov in the Parish of Botriphnie.

Royston J. Milne. Took an Arts and a Law Degree.

Stuart Middleton. Became a chartered accountant and was killed as a fighter pilot in 1940.

John D. MacLennan. Twin, brother of Alastair. Took a Medical Degree and died in 196a as Professor of Micro-Biology, Georgetown University, Washington D.C., U.S.A. William Hay Stephen. Entered the family business of fish merchants.

Alexander Slessor. Qualified in medicine. Was prominent in Edinburgh medical circles and died in the 195os (?I956).

Hector Gray. Took an Arts and a Law Degree and entered his father's law firm in Aberdeen.

William Craig. Went into the insurance business.

George Whitson. Arts and Law Degrees. Became an advocate.

Ian Stewart. Gave up medicine while a student and (?) entered commerce.

Norman Clarke. Graduated in Science and Medicine and (I think) became head of the Sick Children's Department of the Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen.

George Milne. Qualified in medicine in 1934 and died the same year in a drowning accident at Aberdeen beach.

Alexander Mackie. Took an Arts and Law Degree.

Classical V—Ig2,9

15

Mr. Gray. Known affectionately as "Pimpo" he was head of the Mathematics Department.

Robert Grate. Took an Arts and Law Degree.

Albert Christie. Qualified in medicine and is a consultant in anaesthetics in Glasgow.

William Pennie. Became a banker and died in 193° (?) as the result of a fall in the Rubislaw Quarries.

James Craig. Took an Arts and Law Degree.

Alastair MacLennan. Twin brother of John. Qualified in medicine.

Now a retired major-general, Army Medical Service.

School Office Bearers Prefects DOUGLAS MCALLISTER (Senior Prefect) DOUGLAS H. SMITH (Deputy Senior Prefect) DAVID J. M. ANDERSON MICHAEL CAVANAG I I

JOHN D. MURRAY GORDON MUTCH

IAN C. HUNTER W. J. CAMPBELL KERR ALAN J. M. KILTIE

DEREK R. REEKIE

GARTH A. KNOX ANDREW D. LAING

LAIN W. ROBERTSON GRAE.VIE $IMPSON

JOHN W. LAMONT NEIL J. G. LAWRIE

KENNETH W. SIMPSON NORMAN STRONACH

COLIN W. HAY

ROBERT J. MACINDOE KENNETH A. MCROBB

GRAHAM TRUSCOTT THOMAS WATT

DAVID HENDERSON DOUGLAS T. HENDRY

PETER D. MIDGLEY ALEXANDER J. MILNE

JOHN WISEMAN

PETER N. CLARKE DOUGLAS J. DAVIDSON JAMES W. L. DAVIDSON GRAHAM K. DEANS MALCOLM T. FOLEY ALAN P. HARPER

GEORGE J. WHYMAN

House Captains Byron

Dun

DOUGLAS H. SMITH

GORDON MUTCH

Keith

Melvin

JOHN D. MURRAY

NORMAN STRONACH Rugby

Vice-Captain Join.; D. MURRAY

Captain DOUGLAS H. SMITH

Hockey

Vice-Captain GORDON Murcn

Captain ROBERT J. MACINDOE

Swimming

Captain LAIN W. ROBERTSON Literary and Debating Society

President W. J. CAMPBELL KERR Secretary DAVID J. M. ANDERSON

Vice-President PETER D. MIDGLEY Treasurer DAVID PITT-WATSON

Dramatic Society

Vice-President DOUGLAS MCALLISTER President SANDY MACAULAY Secretary and Treasurer W. J. CAMPBELL KERR Cadet Force W.O. GRAEME SIMPSON Editors of School Section DOUGLAS MCALLISTER

W. J. CAMPBELL KERR i6

MALCOLM T. FOLEY

Random Notes Quote from Lab. 1: "Don't believe all the rubbish the maths department tell you". * * * One day the Nurse's room was seen to be empty. A prefect remarked, "Everyone must be ill today". * * * The following teachers should return the undernamed books to the library: The Rotor's Edge, Mr. Hugh Diack; The Exorcist, Mr. Roy Falconer; Little Big-Man, Mr. A. Baxter; Bee Keeping for Pleasure and Profit, Mr. W. Williams; Flowers of Scotland, Mr. W. May; The French Connection, Mr. H. Davidson; Little Women, Mr. J. Black and Mr. J. Downie; Guinness Book of Records, Mr. R. Duncan; Puppet on a String, Mr. P. Henderson; Three Men in a Boat, Mr. R. Newton; Your Driving Test and How to Pass, Mr. J. Murray; Muth Ado About Nothing, Mr. A. McCombie; The Caretaker, Mr. H. Hopkins. * * * How do you catch a polar bear?

Hide behind an iceberg and make a noise like a lettuce. *

*

*

"For heaven's sake James, what haven't you got?" * * * There are more dames here than there arc girls. *

*

*

I heard England lost 1-1 last night. *

*

*

News Sheet for x April 1974.

Will someone please return the duplicating room to the office?

Correction: Yesterday's News Sheet stated that there would be no News Sheet tomorrow but tomorrow's News Sheet will state that today's News Sheet will be in place of yesterday's News Sheet. However, since there will be no News Sheet tomorrow to state that there was no News Sheet yesterday which is today, the statement is incorrect. Therefore we wish to announce that there will be no News Sheet tomorrow, today, in order to avoid confusion .. .

Meet the Prefects Douglas McAllister. This year's head prefect, put a real lock on his locker to the dismay of the other prefects who had considerable difficulty keeping track of his secret possessions, but Malcolm found the key to the problem. Douglas took up ski-ing this year which 17

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Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

resulted in his having to have an anti-tetanus injection due, he claims, to a vicious snowman. We don't often see him these days because, he claims, he is doing pie queues at Harlaw Academy.

"Lay down your dove 'cos here comes the steam kid."

[Adapted] Douglas H. Smith. This year's D.S.P., captain of the rugby team and captain of the cricket team, Douglas wears a blazer with a very heavy pocket, but perhaps his proudest achievement this year was winning the "Top of the socks" challenge cup, by beating John in straight sets. The suggestion that he has taken up permanent residence outside the High School is received with contempt. ". . . Smith, for ale and spice Sold all his tools, and yet kept his vice."

Sir John Harrington David J. M. Anderson. David claims to have the longest and most unusual name in the Howff. Much to Douglas' annoyance. He props up the 1st XV but claims that he only does it so that he can put his arm around John. He adores aniseed, Mick Jagger and French classes, in that order. His sporting prowess is only surpassed by his academic achievements and his debating abilities.

Have you seen your mother, baby, standing in the shadows ?

Mick Jagger Michael Cavanagh. The tranquil atmosphere in the Howff was rudely shattered by this "nigger in the woodpile". His anthropological observations regarding the Commonwealth Games perhaps explains the considerable success of the emergent nations. Michael is a man who calls a spade a spade, and never fails to speak his mind, which may explain his frequent silences.

"A rake among scholars, and a scholar among rakes."

Anon.

Peter N. Clarke. Peter must be one of the few prefects who goes to all his classes. He created a considerable sensation when he inquired whether or not one was obliged to go to the Howff between every class; but now, despite this initial uncertainty, he has become one of the more regular occupants. He is an officer in the C.C.F., is frequently seen at School meals, and is alleged to be compiling a book entitled The Thoughts of Chairman Baxter or What's most like one worm?

"Nothing confounds a wise man more than the laughter of a fool ..."

Anon.

Douglas J. Davidson. Douglas caused a sensation at the beginning of the term when a first year girl told him that he was "too bonny to be a prefect". More recently, his detective instincts have discovered compromising situations in the cycle sheds, though he found some difficulty in explaining his own presence there. Plays football and even attends Economics, much to Malcolm's disgust.

"Watch that man."

D. Bowie

Meet the Prefects

19

James W. L. Davidson. James has an annoying habit of bringing his dirty underwear into the Howff with some feeble excuse about Hazlehead woods. His driving is a constant source of conversation and of fear for his passengers. The Howff's first barmaid, James spends most evenings in a very happy establishment. Despite his card playing activities he holds Mr. Gill in mortal terror.

"What haven't you got James ?"

D. McA. Graham K. Deans. Graham projects an angelic image, especially for Mr. Baxter, despite his ineffectual rendering of the National Anthem.

In preparation for his future career, he organises frequent and fearless raids around the back of the pool and even offers to raid the female toilets. Unfortunately he is not on particularly good terms with the Games Department.

"I've never kissed a girl before," said he, changing gear with his left knee.

Anon.

Malcolm T. Foley. One of the few remaining Fascists in the Howff, he spends most of his time behind the couch, to Mr. Galloway's great displeasure. He became one of the Howff elite when he passed his driving test, first time. No great gym-attender he claims to get exercise enough walking up to his Economics classes at Rosemount, and has recently fallen into bad habits, such as coming to School before 9.15 a.m.

"Of course it's none of my business . . ."

I.C.S. Alan P. Harper. One of the more athletic types in the Howff he can always be found weight training at lunchtime. His rowing exploits have led to considerable success with James. However his greatest achievement was winning the jackpot on his own pontoon cards. He also finds foreign bodies in his coffee and coffee on his trousers. Does anyone know how to stop him laughing?

"I am forced, as I have often said, to try to make myself laugh, that I may not weep."

Samuel Richardson Colin W. Hay. Colin is very touchy about his driving and his reindeer.

A computer employed him to do its chemistry project which found its way onto B.B.C. radio. Colin holds the unique distinction of being the only prefect to date who has injured both thumbs while ski-ing.

"Any water in the desert ?"

Arabic David Henderson. David is the Howff artist whose work was on show at the School dance. He plays hockey for Scotland but was forced to decline a game of rugby in the house matches on grounds of health. His famous mural-variations on Oxo cubes is currently showing in the Howff with a few embellishments.

Call his harmless art a crime."

W. Scott

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine Douglas T. Hendry. Bumble is bothered by his mouth—it's too big and he uses it too much. Spends most of his time knocking down trees—like a lumberjack, or full-backs--like an axe. He used to be a devoted gigolo but he has turned over a new leaf since becoming romantically involved, with a pair of ear-rings. The tuck-shop has never been the same since it came under his control. In fact, such is the doubt about Bumble's character, that some say he pinched it . . .

Latterly his better half has seemed worried about his clandestine activities with one of the Albyns.

"Away for your lunch, Bumble?"

The Howff zo

Ian C. Hunter. Ian has impressed us as the strong, silent type, but is not without talent. He doesn't often come into the Howff, probably because he is doing what he should be doing such as duties, classes, etc. In common with Douglas and Norman, Ian's favourite maths teacher lives in Room F. He is one of a School team which is collecting water from all around Britain so that it may be passed by them for a science fair.

"Genius is i per cent inspiration and 99 per cent perspiration."

T. Edison W. J. Campbell Kerr. Campbell has a strange slant on important issues, probably so that he can try out his skis. The Dramatic Society, the Debating Society and Albyn School for Girls will probably want to thank him for his ever-presence, but why spend so little time in the Howff? Occasionally attends Mr. Spence's weight-training class, some say for pleasure, others that he aspires to the elite. May have started a new craze by being awarded half-colours for skiing and tolerance on the ski-club bus.

"If four play whist and I look on They make blunders and I make none."

D. W. Thompson Alan J. M. Kiltie. Alan is stage manager in the Dramatic Society which may explain the arguments he often has with door handles.

Plays second fiddle to Garth in the orchestra but doesn't seem to mind it. His most startling acquisition is a motor bike plus yellow crash helmet which, regrettably, after a brief sojourn in the Howff became polluted by red graffiti.

"He was a fiddler and consequently a rogue."

Swift Garth A. Knox. Because of his successes last year Garth has refrained from troubling the S.C.E. Board this year. The other prefects claim that his results were really a fiddle. Plays with Alan in the orchestra, in the Howff and under the stage to Andrew's disappointment. Much of his life centres around music, though he has on occasion been seen outwith the hallowed corridors of the Music Department.

Garth, who is Irish-born, appeared in the School play as a cockney

Meet the Prefects

21

soldier with a Yorkshire accent while the remainder of the characters were Irish, his only complaint being, the trousers were too large.

"The music is sweeter afterwards."

F. Bacon Andrew D. Laing. Leader of the school orchestra he is rarely seen in the Howff, spending most of his time at the music centre or at Maths classes. A mainstay of the choir, he also sings out of it, which annoys the other prefects. His tall, slim figure when seen on the rugby field is frequently mistaken for a post.

"Do you think Mr. Falconer will mind if I miss games ?"

A.D.L. John W. Lamont. John is one of the few prefects who can claim to have volunteered to go a message for the nurse, and ironically has been sent home by her, not once, but twice. He can often be seen running away from School at lunch time, but always returns; and all this running must have helped towards his success at the Scottish Schools' Cross Country.

"Of all the ten thousand evils that plague Hellas, There is none worse than the race of athletes."

Euripides Neil J. G. Lawrie. Fuzz is the proud owner of a car—which makes him quite unique in the Howff. As president of the Photographic Society he may often be found in the darkroom with John developing an interest in photography. Well known for his puns which tend to bring the house down.

"It often happcns that a bad pun goes farther than a better one."

W. S. Landor Robert J. Macindoe. Robert (alias Ian) was the Grammar School's first streaker, much to Miss Ramsey's amusement. He frequently voices his taste in music in the Howff, which is one of the best ways of emptying it quickly. He capped his sporting career by taking his High School counterpart to the School dance and by playing for Scotland, but when offered a game for Keith House rugby team was forced to decline on the grounds that he could not take his hockey stick on to the pitch. Finally, we promised not to mention Jan's hair, or the fact that he combs it a great deal, so we will not.

"My mother bids me bind my hair."

A. Hunter Kenneth A. McRobb. Due to his big ears Kenneth has been nicknamed Noddy. Nevertheless he is very highly thought of in the Howff, perhaps due to the dazzling fluorescence of his teeth and his elegant coiffure. Hopefully his ski-ing difficulties will result in a JUDIcial settlement. lqr. Will seems very interested in Noddy's ability to consume Coca-Cola, but he never brings it up in School.

Spends most of his time supporting the Dons by selling jockstraps on a Saturday morning.

"I'm the laughing gnome and you can't catch me I" David Bowie

22

Aberdeen Grammar School Magatine

Peter Midgley. Peter props up the rugby team with the aid of David Anderson, and like David he is often heard to voice his opinions at the Literary and Debating Society. He is also believed to go rowing but, judging by the school dance, he's not very good with the oars.

Peter has often been known to immerse himself in fun and games with Mr. Spence.

"English is a foreign language to you."

P.M. Alexander J. Milne. Sandy has yet to finalise his wedding plans, but all the prefects hope to be invited. Is often seen wandering around the rugby field aimlessly. He was elected to the post of Howie chauffeur but had to decline the offer on the grounds of lack of time, since he went to most of his classes. Makes frequent trips to Rosemount in order to supply the prefects with the fruits of his Elementary cookery classes.

"What a beard hast thou got ?"

Shakespeare teased about his height, being John D. Murray. John is always but claims that the nurse told him he was 5 feet 9 inches. We're all well aware of the reliability of the nurse's statements. Rumour has it that he lives somewhere in the north but no one knows for sure where, since we are too afraid to brave the elements. His sudden shortage of hair midway through the year has been attributed to worry—he didn't know what to write about Charles Dickens in his English dissertation. John is Doug's vice—or at least one of them, and, he claims, the only reason he plays at hooker is to keep him off the streets and to put his arm around David. However, at the swimming gala he made a big impact on the water.

"O.K., who's the wise guy?"

J.D.M. Gordon Mutch. Gordon is the proud winner of this year's silliest smiling prefect award. Although vice-captain of the hockey team, he seems to show more energy in the pursuit of other "game" specimens. In fact we are sure that he has been "hooked" by this hobby to the extent that he even forgets School. May be seen wandering around Aberdeen of an afternoon searching for esters and dry valleys, or so he claims.

"Be quiet and go a-Angling."

I. Walton Derek R. Reekie. Derek had a striking effect on Doug when he hit him with a discus, and he still has the mark to prove it. He is captain of the and XV and even insists on taking the kicks. His golfing exploits have often been talked of and more recently demonstrated in the Howie, much to Doug's anxiety. The current score in the Howie final of the indoor lacrosse championships is D.R.R. 4— K.A.McR. 4 with three matches to play.

"Gie up gowff, Nae, gie up the meenistry."

Anon.

Meet the Prefects 23 lain W. Robertson. Spook, alias squeak, alias Iain, may often be heard when he is not seen. He is frequently asked if he is in the choir which tends to annoy him for some reason. Appears to be afflicted by some strange disease which prevents him from passing a sub-station without further investigation. fain also plays chess, goes skiing, climbs hills, plays the oboe, speaks at the Lit and Deb., swims, plays bridge, collects holes (especially in plastic cups), goes to Engineering Drawing classes, takes a Scout troop, and, greatest sin of all, drives a car.

"We were all like swimmers in the sea."

M. Arnold Graeme Simpson. Graeme is the Howff's only warrant officer and we are all jealous of his dress belt. He was once seen, possibly by mistake, in Room E. He shares Graham's musical tastes, and is often heard discussing the relative performances of automobiles with Niel.

"I never expect a soldier to think."

G. B. Shaw Kenneth W. Simpson. Kenneth is the official ist XV touch judge, our only complaint in this respect being that he is too honest. He is looked upon as one of the most hard working prefects simply because he is the least difficult to persuade. His frequent lunch time runs with John Lamont ensured him a place in the cross-country team. Despite his apparent aversion to classes he appears to be well-liked; after all, any pie that Kenneth doesn't have a finger in isn't worth considering.

"Well, myself, I think . . ."

K.W.S. Norman Stronach. Norman's blazer pocket is nearly as heavy as Doug Smith's but this does not detract from his bottle catching ability in the Howff. Next to rugby and football Norman's favourite sport is hiking, for, once persuaded to take a trip to the Grampians, he has never looked back since. He is often seen to compete with Bumble for the biggest lumberjack in the Howff competition, the result of which has yet to be decided.

"I've never been so faithful for so long."

Elsie Graham Truscott. "Trunky" is famous in the Howff as an automatic chair-destroying device, and his bad habit of throwing objects around, e.g. gym-shoes, bottles of milk, chairs, buns, etc., seems ineradicable. He was also found guilty of default in divoting Spook's playing cards.

"Fools for arguments use wagers".

Anon Thomas Watt. One of the quieter members of the prefecture he is rarely seen in the Howff, spending most of his time commuting between Rosemount and Mr. Baxter's maths classes. He appears to enjoy his daily school meals despite the foreign body he once found

Aberdeen Grammar School Magaine in his custard. He sticks to his post in the Stamp Club and is always in Mr. Scott's good books.

"Am I my brother's keeper ?"

Genesis IV 24

George J. Whyman. Another of the married men of the Howff.

His fiancée, claimed by some to be Groucho Marx, is also alleged by some to be taller than George, but this he vehemently denies. He looks forward to a career in the forces, plays for the second XV and sings in the choir.

"Cranks arc small things which make revolutions."

Anon.

John Wiseman. Some have doubts about John's ancestry, since he is so dexterous with a spear, but we all missed the point of this.

John also plays left wing for the the i st XV and seems to get a kick out of doing this. He always has great difficulty locating his anorak during the lunch hour since it is used for purposes of camouflage by the big boys.

"Is there a Ron McLeod in this class?"

J.W.

Staff Notes Once upon a time—and not such a long time ago either—teaching vacancies were advertised in the public press in three-or-four line small-print notices which occupied little space, and presumably were not expensive. Now extravagant invitations to join the profession shout from the massive back-pages of the dailies, alongside blatant calls of a similar sort from insurance companies, North Sea oil entrepreneurs, used-car vendors, and other men of substance. These advertisements are large, frequent, fulsome and, we would guess, very expensive. We might conclude from this change that now as never before teachers are real sharers in the great modern bonanza, and that as their services are so obviously in demand they must be highly treasured and liberally paid by these advertisers. On the other hand we might decide that the very length and frequency of these vacancylists point to a deep-seated malaise: if so many teachers are so often required to be on the move there can be little contentment or stability in their lives and a corresponding absence of continuity in the teachingprocess as it affects the children. There is no doubt at all among teachers about where the truth lies.

Our School is not immune from the malaise. The list of staff changes is enough to prove that. Indeed we may be more vulnerable than others in that the many new academies in Aberdeen and elsewhere in search of the promoted staff made necessary by their new status and duties and made mandatory by recent legislation, can and do draw upon the kind of teachers we have; teachers who, along with an ability to teach have at the same time a not unnatural wish to improve themselves financially. But some comfort remains. What the school

Staff Notes

25

has to offer in teaching opportunity and in educational status can still draw applicants to fill the vacancies that have declared themselves in the course of the last session.

Departures Of the many people on the departure list a few call for particular notice in that they held senior posts, or worked in the School for a considerable time: Mr. Donald Hawksworth appointed to the Grammar School in May 1956 as an assistant teacher and later promoted to Head of Department left at the beginning of September to become Adviser in Music to the city; Mr. Liddiard after a three year's stint as Head of Business Studies took up a post as Lecturer in the Economics Department of Aberdeen University; Mr. Magnus Stewart, for ten years a member of the Chemistry Teaching Department was promoted to the Chemistry headship in Northfield Academy and Mr. Ian Ramsay who from an assistantship in the History Department (with a slight attachment to the English Department also) became first a principal assistant and then an Assistant Headmaster all within a few years, left to go to the other end of the earth, to Perth, Australia.

There was movement also among the less exalted. The English Department has so far this year suffered the loss of no fewer than four teachers: Mr. Erridge who was appointed to the School as recently as the end of May 197z, and promoted to an assistant principalship shortly after, went to the new Linksfield Academy (at the moment still embodied in Frederick Street and Middle Schools) as principal English teacher; Mr. Findley after a year and a half's service with us preceded Mr. Ramsay in the flight to Australia—in his case to Queensland where, dried out after the floods, he is now settled; Mr. Gordon after less than four years has gone to a promoted post in Hilton Academy; and Mrs. May, who worked in both the Spanish and English Departments and also quietly, tactfully and efficiently behind the scenes in a number of School stage productions, decided at Christmas to our regret, to call it a day. Such an exodus from one department may suggest betrayal, revolt, or mutiny; but I fear that the truth of the matter is far less romantic, and that the desire to earn more money, to see more of the world, and to take things rather more easily have been the effective causes.

The Mathematics Department also has wounds to lick. Mr. Brian Walker and Mr. John May were promoted to principal assistantships in other schools, the former, after four years here, to Hazlehead Academy, the latter to Bridge of Don Academy after five years in Rubislaw. In addition the head of the department, Mr. Houston, so comparatively recently appointed from Kirkcudbright has sought and gained the post of Adviser in Mathematics to the city, and though at the moment of writing he is still with us his departure cannot be long delayed.

The School will also miss Mr. Ian McCurrach of the Art Department who left to take up an appointment in Turriff Academy in the month of February; Mr. Ian Ritchie who went from the Chemistry Department in December of last year to join Stonehaven Academy;

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine and Mrs. Raverty who goes to Summerhill Academy after a very brief stay here.

Finally one who was very near the heart of the School, Miss Leslie Glashan. In the ten years that have gone by since she came as a junior assistant to Miss Gibb we saw Leslie shed her first—but attractive— gaucheness to become a young lady knowledgeable and capable in all office skills, losing the gaucheness but none of the attractiveness.

Her promotion to the secretaryship of Powis Academy was well merited. To her and to all the others who for whatever reason have left us we wish happy success in their new spheres. z6

Arrivals This list has inevitably to be a long one, the new intake of girls called for a number of essential additional appointments, and on top of that, of course, it was necessary to fill the many vacancies created by the departure of staff at the end of last session. And then again new vacancies have appeared in the course of the session and have been filled.

No less than three men joined the English Department at the beginning of the 1973-74 session: Mr. James Davidson, Mr. George Lawrence and Mr. James Mitchell. Just after the new year we welcomed Mrs. Margaret Eleftheriou who took over most of Mrs. May's duties; and at the beginning of February Mrs. Mary Dutch, appointed to the School as a year mistress, brought her high teaching qualifications to the department. Five new teachers to one department in the course of one year must be quite a School record.

Four new heads of department fall to be noted. In August Mr. Archibald Fraser succeeded Mr. Murray as Principal Technical Teacher, and Mrs. Clark was appointed—the first in the School's history—Principal Teacher of Home Economics; and towards the end of February this year Mr. Alan Hall came from the College of Commerce to take Mr. Liddiard's place as Principal Teacher of Business Studies and Economics. To complete the tally Mrs. Brown was promoted from a principal assistantship to the post of Head of the Music Department left vacant by Mr. Hawksworth's move.

Mrs. Janette Black was appointed a year mistress as from the beginning of the session; her teaching duties are in the Home Economics Department, where she has as a colleague Mrs. Maureen Fraser who is appointed temporarily to the School staff. Mrs. Sheila Watt joined the Department of Religious Education, Miss Sandra Ramsay the Physical Education Department as an assistant principal, Miss Kathleen Lawrence the Art Department, and Mrs. Christine Raverty, appointed in December, made a short stay before leaving at Easter for a post in Summerhill Academy. We also have to welcome back Mr. David Scott, who returned to teach in the Physics Department after a short period of exile in the business world of telegrams and anger.

Finally, attached to no one department but affecting in some measure the whole economy of the School two appointments are to be noted: Mr. Stephen Riley joined as Lab. Technical Assistant, and Mrs. Elizabeth Morgan as Clerical Assistant, a position at the School

Tribute to Mr. Hawk.sworth

z7

cross-roads where her helpfulness and efficiency has been much appreciated.

We wish them one and all a long stay in the School, and hope also they find pleasure and fulfilment in their work.

Tribute to Mr. Hawksworth Mr. Donald Hawksworth was appointed an assistant master in the Music Department of the Grammar School in May 1956 after a spell of teaching in Brechin High School, was promoted to the headship of the department in November 1961, and left the School's service at the beginning of September 1973 to become Advisor in Music to the city. Taken just as it reads that brief record might suggest that Mr. Hawksworth's progress merely followed the pattern of the conventional climb upward, onward and finally outward, where canny virtue is given its appropriate reward, and the last presentation and handshake marks the end of the subject's link with the School. How false an interpretation that would be we know, who worked and played with him in School and who still know him. Mr. Hawksworth always played things after his own fashion. That fashion was characterised by an extraordinary energy, channelled to achieve with choir and orchestras a kind of musical excellence both within and without the School that cannot be easily paralleled; and in addition to that Mr. Hawksworth walked and climbed hills and mountains, lectured and conducted, and performed as a piano and organ soloist here, there and almost everywhere. He brought the name and sound of the School to a large public, in concerts given in the School itself, in the Music Hall, at Haddo House, in St. Machar's in Aberdeen and St. Giles' in Edinburgh; and also through radio and T.V. performance to the Scottish public at large.

In all these different places, before very varying audiences Mr. Hawksworth played and conducted with a characteristic panache that showed in stance and movement how intensely he was himself involved and how much he expected others to give of their best. Rarely were his high expectations not fulfilled, and this not with a few frequently rehearsed works, but with a range of musical composition that rings almost incredibly in the telling: Purcell and Vivaldi, Beethoven, Bernstein and Britten are only some of the composers the School orchestras interpreted, in works some of them simple, some intricate and complex, and always rendered with insight and verve.

The work of Benjamin Britten Mr. Hawksworth made peculiarly his own; he seems to have a special understanding and intimacy with the mind and intention of the composer. And perhaps the links Mr. Hawksworth forged with the School and musical life of Regensburg through the visits made by the School orchestras and choir to Bavaria and the complementary visits paid to us by pupils of Regensburg will stand out most abidingly in his memory as they do in the School's.

It is a pleasure to realise that in his new post he will still be able to communicate with his old department, and in particular to continue to be in some measure a mentor and exemplar to the School's musical life.

z8

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

School Sporting Activities Swimming has been a broadening of water activities years there In the past few in the School. One result is that the swimming team has been less successful in national competition because of the greater emphasis on survival swimming, lifesaving, canoeing and sub-aqua, and less competitive training.

Despite this a high standard of competition was maintained in the School swimming gala, with a number of records being broken. The gala was won by Melvin House, who beat Keith by a very narrow margin. A large team was entered for the Aberdeen Schools Gala which was very successful, gaining ten first places and a corresponding number of seconds and thirds. The number of competent young swimmers in the School is encouraging for the future.

Netball meets on Monday and WednesAugust, started in Club, Netball The day evenings. So far we have won all our games against first year girls, and in a First Year Tournament held in March we came second in our league.

This year we have been rather at a disadvantage because the league in which we play has an age-range up to 16 years of age, and we at Rubislaw have no girls over 13. Not surprisingly we didn't win any of those games but we have enjoyed playing.

Rugby The past Rugby season has been one of the most successful for some years. As the 1st XV usually gets all the notices, it is pleasant to record that their performances made the reading most enjoyable.

But what also has been obvious is the success at all levels of School rugby. Results are not everything, although the wins were encouragingly on the credit side. Throughout there has been an excellent spirit and camaraderie in the teams and a healthy competition for places.

The znd XV has been, above all else, a very good team. Results again were first rate as they were with the 4th year XV, another side who in spite of being plundered for players for the 1st XV, continued their reputation for fine support play. The Colts have long laboured against heavier teams, but have shown that concentration on the basics pays off. Such was the enthusiasm in the Juniors and Minors that extra fixtures had to be arranged for second teams and it was unfortunate that some of the more attractive ones were cancelled because of bad weather. Altogether a good year.

Awards Re-award Full Colours—J. D. Murray, D. H. Smith, N. Stronach.

Award Full Colours—M. Cavanagh, D. McAllister, P. D. Midgley, I. R. Simpson, J. Wiseman.

School Sporting Activities

29

Re-award Half Colours—D. J. Anderson, C. D. Campbell, A. J. Milne.

Award Half Colours—G. J. G. Allan, A. A. Booth, D. T. Hendry D. G. Mitchell, M. Morris.

1st XV

This year's ist XV was made up of the majority of last year's poor side. With a set of competent if not big forwards and a fast and talented back division (especially Smith). We started the season with a great deal of determination, taking full advantage of the F.P.s training sessions to get ourselves fairly fit before we got fully under way under the iron hand of Mr. Falconer. As a warm-up match a fixture against a strong F.P.s and XV side was arranged, needless to say we went down, but not without a fight and it was to our credit that we managed to score 19 points. Score 30-19. This game gave us the opportunity to blend together and to overcome pre-season nerves.

Our first School fixture took us to Dundee for the first of our two matches against the High School. After getting an early lead we went on to give a fine display—for that time of the season—and defeated the home side by a margin that was more convincing than the score would suggest, 25-15. In the next two games we continued our fine form. We were deprived of victory over Glasgow Academy by giving away five penalties through inexperience and had to be content with a draw. Against Gordonstoun we produced our top form. After losing two very early tries in the corner we fought back to win convincingly, 28-17. This was a very pleasing result as victories at Gordonstoun are not easily come by.

The next three fixtures were disappointing. The first was Dollar Academy, which although we won 24-18, and indeed won convincingly, was rather disappointing in as much as we could have done better. The next was a defeat at the hands of a strong and talented Wednesday Club and the last at the hands of this year's top school side, D. Stewarts and Melville College. Not even in our wildest dreams do we believe that we could have won this game; but we did not play to our full potential and that is always a disappointment. After losing our form we faced a crisis—the Gordon's College/Aberdeen Grammar School Derby at Seafield on the Wednesday. We prepared in the usual manner for this match and to the players' credit took the field with a quiet confidence that this would be our match. It was, 6-3. In what is regarded as being one of the best derby games for some time, we harassed and covered magnificently on their ball and made the best use of our own. This was followed by a big win at the expense of a weak Abbey School side.

From this point until Christmas the record is disappointing. We went down to Perth Academy in a game that we should have won by at least thirty points, score 20-24, and this followed by a poor draw against Morgan Academy. In late November/early December the weather hit us hard. Two attractive fixtures—St. Aloysius College and Royal High School were cancelled and another, against Watson's

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine College was badly affected. Travelling down by bus in the morning in conditions that even frightened the bus driver we were destined to play Watson's College—the side that knocked up 7o points against us last year—in a gale that prevented play from being within ten yards of one touch line to one solitary occasion. Despite this, both sides played well and although we went down 7—o, we did credit to ourselves.

After Christmas, our first game was away to Glenalmond. The pitch, or rather the mud, was in its usual condition and as they had big forwards no amount of effort could overcome this disadvantage on a pitch that was more akin to Donald's Ice Rink than to a school rugby pitch. As a result we went down by a couple of pushover tries. This was followed by a good win (and the double) over Dundee High when our fitness told and the game was won in the last few minutes. Score zo—i a. The next game was against Heriot's at Goldenacre. We started well and if our kicker had had on his kicking boots we would have been up at half time but . . . and at half time we were down 4-3. For some unknown reason we let ourselves slip in the second half and lost several tries. Following this we had two games before the return match against Gordon's College—Paisley Grammar and Glasgow High. As was to be expected from our record we won both games with fair ease. Perhaps this was not a good thing for the derby game because on the big day we looked a weary side which was unable to raise its game above half pace. In every department of the game we were beaten by the "auld enemies". Owing to the cancellation of the Hutcheson's Grammar game we played our last school game against Morrison's Academy which we won. The traditional match against the F.P.s 1st XV lived up to its expectations. In this game we produced flutters of our old form and although in the end we went down against their overwhelming strength it was not without giving them a fair run.

Therefore, on record we were a good School side and it must also be remembered that three or four of the games that were cancelled would probably have resulted in wins. If we had played to our full potential in every game we would not just have been the best side that has been through the School for a long time but one of the best School sides in Scotland this season. In every team sport there is more to it than just victories and defeats, there is a team spirit which should blend together people of different ages, talents and intellectual ability —ours did. Therefore, at this point we must give our very sincere thanks to Mr. Falconer for all his guidance and patience for what must have been a frustrating year for him. Special thanks also must be recorded to Mr. Mathew, who unfortunately must retire to greener pastures, and to Mr. Milne for their encouragement throughout. I would also like to thank the gym cleaning ladies for their humour— although often not appreciated!

30

School Sporting Activities

31

Who's Who in the 1st XV D. H. Smith (Captain) (5 ft. TO in., to st. I2 lb.). A good Captain on and off the field. Had the ability to read a game and set it flowing for others. He denies that he made that tackle. He was trying to repair his other boot when the fool fell over him!

J. D. Murray (Vice-Captain) (5 ft. 9 in., it st. o lb.). A very good hooker and a first class forward in the loose. He matured into an excellent pack leader, but it is not true that his use of numbers earned him a job as a Bingo Caller!

G. J. G. Allan (5 ft. 6i in., 1 1 st. 3 lb.). Always prepared to go forward in defence as well as attack. Uses his head!

D. J. M. Anderson (5 ft. to in., It st. to lb.). Hard-working though intense with a restless desire to get on with it. Popular with the team in spite of the fact he read thick books with hard covers!

A. A. Booth (5 ft. 5 in., 9 st. 5 lb.). Brought a tightness and flair to the scrum half position not in proportion to his size. His stature should grow!

C. D. Campbell (5 ft. lo in., 12 st. 3 lb.). One of the most improved players of the season. To match his running he found not only a tackle, but a cover tackle as well!

M. Cavanagh (6 ft. II in., 12 st. 2 lb). Unusual for a lock forward he allowed himself to think about the game—even when playing!

D. T. Hendry (5 ft. to in., 11 st. 8 lb.). Coped with a difficult job in a light team—just as one would expect from the last of the "Bumbles".

D. McAllister (5 ft. 9i in., to st. 6 lb.). An early season injury kept him from the side, but his return restored his confidence at once. An injury to one leg at least left him with his one leg for kicking!

P. D. Midgley (5 ft. too in., ix st. 9 lb.). For a prop he is able to do an awful lot of work "out and about" whilst still getting on with the "grind"—and he has the bruises to prove it!

A. J. Milne (5 ft. 8 in., I I st. 6 lb.) Full back or wing, he was the typical example of a good club man. Sometimes he preferred company on the wing!

D. G. Mitchell (5 ft. It in., so st. is lb.). Came into the side to do specific jobs which he did well—and gave us a bonus or two of his own!

M. Morrice (6 ft. oi in., 13 st. o lb.). He is learning to use his natural abilities to greater advantage, but is sometimes a too gentle giant—who can respond to insults!

I. R. Simpson (5 ft. to in., I I st. 4 lb.). Greatly improved defence matched up to his attack. Some claim that his eyesight made him play close to the line!

N. Stronach (5ft. toi in., II st. 13 lb.). Chaser extraordinary and backer-up by appointment. Sometimes he was unjustly accused of catching his first pass!

J. Wiseman (5 ft. loin., I1 st. 4 lb.). Scored a lot of points himself, but made a lot for others—and stopped not a few too. Takes lessons in public speaking from Mitchell I

3z

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

Soccer The School's 1st team tasted both success and defeat in this year's football programme. Captained by M. J. Davidson with assistance from vice-captain R. Simpson the "A" team won ten of its thirteen games and suffered only two defeats, one of which was from our own "B" team in the league. The second defeat, which was a big disappointment to the players, was suffered in the first round of the new Regional Cup for Aberdeenshire teams at the hands of Kincorth Academy, though favourites for the trophy the team slumped to a 3—z defeat after holding a two goal lead.

Revenge was gained however, when, in a play-off for the 5/6 League Championship, the first team defeated Kincorth z—t at Harlaw. Mention must be given to the and team who played extremely well, too, and suffered only two defeats against Northfield (z—t) and the "A" team (5 —1). Several znd team players represented the "A" team in a few of their fixtures.

In encounters with country teams last year several defeats were conceded, but in a crippled fixture list this year the first team beat Peterhead 6—o and 7—o, and drew with a strong Fraserburgh Academy team 2-z away from home.

Together, both teams used about thirty different players in the course of the season, who all played an important part in our overall success.

Much thanks is due to the gym staff for their help, with particular reference to Mr. Spence. Also, the players would like to thank Mr. Grant, Mr. Marc, Mr. Minett and other teachers who gave of their free time to referee and guide the School teams.

With many good players in the fourth and fifth years the soccer team's future looks promising.

Hockey 1st XI School has had a strong 1st succession For the second season in XI as a good nucleus of players remained from the previous year. In addition several boys played regularly for senior teams so that they were frequently subjected to the faster pace of senior hockey.

Yackiminie conceded few goals and effected many fine saves.

Throughout the season he has shown sharp reactions, courage and an unperturbable temperament. Early in the year there were occasions when he and his backs became involved in avoidable mix-ups in the circle but such incidents diminished sharply both in number and in danger to the goal as the defence as a whole struck up a better understanding.

The four backs worked well together as a cohesive unit which linked fluently with the players in front. As Lawson's stopping of the ball became secure his play became more adventurous and constructive. At centre-half Blacklaws showed great industry in an unobtrusive and economical manner. Young has a sure tackle, deft stickwork and a

School Sporting Activities

33 fast swerve, but he must learn to move the ball on more quickly and not wait until his colleagues are too closely marked to receive a pass in comfort. As sweeper Mutch was very effective in all he had to do, timing his tackles well and showing good positional sense. The rest of the team, having confidence in his capabilities, usually contrived to give him room in which to work, but at the same time were available to provide support.

In midfield Truscott and Macindoe both worked hard in attack and in defence. As the season progressed Truscott gained authority, playing with great determination. Next season he will play an important part in welding the boys into a team. Through the season Macindoe gained much senior experience which has paid handsome dividends in the maturing of his game and in developing the qualities of leadership he has displayed so admirably as team captain.

For some reason the forward line as a whole never scored the number of goals that it deserved to, in spite of playing well individually.

Henderson provided very good service, penetrating behind defences and forcing many good balls into their circle. But so often Sutherland and Bruce contrived to be well positioned, finding space, yet pushing the ball past the posts, on to the posts or driving straight at a defender.

Next season it is hoped that a slimmer Jim will take the field, literally lighter on his feet, and a little bit faster in the circle. Bruce was an industrious fetcher and a carrier but next season his talents can be better exploited in midfield. Matthews played with great spirit at outside left although not a left side player. As with Bruce his abilities will be used elsewhere next season.

First X7. Graeme Yackiminie; Kenneth Lawson, John Blacklaws, Gordon Mutch (Vice-Captain), Andrew Young; Graham Truscott, Ian Macindoe (Captain); David Henderson, Derek Bruce, James Sutherland, Michael Matthews.

Played School games League games

7

is

Won 4 7

Record Drawn z i

Lost i 3

For To 53

Against 5 io

In the league most games were fairly even, except for a 4—o defeat

by Academy F.P. "A" who won mainly by capitalising on a number of occasions in which School defence lapsed into total indecisiveness and unfortunately chose to exhibit such uncharacteristic behaviour inside their own circle. Against school sides only one game was lost, as was the case last year. This season Abbey won by three goals to two at Fort Augustus. But so many inter-school games were cancelled that the boys were not able to compare themselves with many of the sides against whom they usually compete. It was particularly disappointing to have the Fettes game cancelled because of the wetness of the Edinburgh pitches as Fettes reckoned they had a strong side. But the week-end was not wasted as School played and beat a Stewart's-Melville team. Both sides played good hockey on a very

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine 34 slippery pitch made worse by pouring rain. Next season the Edinburgh side should be a very competent once since a high proportion of the team was composed of boys who will be returning to school.

Representative games. This season is the last of the "Grammar School" sides; that is the present Vth and VIth years are the last two years who entered the Upper School on the "Grammar School" basis. Therefore it is particularly gratifying that the end of an era in the history of the School should be marked as a season of high merit.

District Team. Eight of the boys were selected for the district team.

The boys were: Yackiminie, Lawson, Mutch, Young, Macindoe, Henderson, Bruce and Sutherland. Macindoe captained the team.

In their first inter-district game North District comfortably beat Midlands by three goals to nil. Bad weather and the urgent need to hold the Scottish trials caused the postponement of the other Hancock Inter-district Trophy matches, these now being arranged for 13 April.

Scottish Under-zz Pool. Young and Macindoe have been selected as members of this group.

North District Senior Team. Henderson and Macindoe have been selected for the North District Senior Team. These boys are to be commended on making their mark at senior level while still playing for a school team.

Internationals. Congratulations are due to Mutch, Henderson, Young and Macindoe who were selected for the final trials at Perth for the Scottish Schoolboys team.

It gave the hockey section great pleasure that Henderson, Young and Macindoe were chosen for the Scottish Pool in the Home International Tournament to be played at Colwyn Bay, in Wales, on 9 and to April. Macindoe was further honoured by being appointed Captain of the Scottish team.

Awards Cap—Henderson, Macindoe, Young.

Full Colours—Blacklaws, Lawson, Mutch, Sutherland, Yackiminie.

Half Colours—Bruce, Matthews, Truscott.

House matches. A strong Keith side won the inter-House tournament.

But in the six-a-sides Melvin, Byron and Dun appeared to play purely on the basis "Macindoe's team must not win the competition". So effectively was this policy put into practice that Keith, the strongest side in theory, finished at the foot of the table. Melvin won.

The Hockey Section is indebted to the masters who have umpired, often at short notice, willingly and cheerfully. Without their interest School could not field regularly so many teams.

Magnus Stewart is the type of master that the hockey Section misses sorely. He is to be congratulated on becoming Principal Teacher of Chemistry at Northfield Academy. He devoted untold time to the game at school and district level as well as playing regularly for Ruthrieston Ramblers. Magnus welded the fourth year boys into fine teams with well-developed basic skills who played the game with determination but in the right spirit. That Magnus should sever his

School Sporting Activities

35 connection with the School, with which he has so long been associated both as pupil and master, is inconceivable so that while we record our indebtedness to him and thank him for his many past contributions to School hockey he must surely have in mind more Saturday mornings at Rubislaw, whistle in hand.

School lost another umpire when Brian Walker gained a promoted post at Hazlehead Academy. The section is indebted to him for his past interest but it is to be hoped that he will continue his association with the game in his new school.

The 1st and znd XIs appreciate, mainly in retrospect, the training sessions arranged by Mr. Falconer to increase their fitness and stamina.

It would be much appreciated if any F.P. who can spare a Wednesday afternoon, even once in the season, would be willing to give the boys the benefit of his experience. Bill Urquhart and Alan Pirie have come along a number of times and we are grateful for their interest and support.

Next season. As the School has changed so must the Hockey Section.

The present Vth and VIth years are the last of the "Grammar School" intake Perhaps because of the different intake, perhaps because soccer is now introduced at Christmas of third year, the number of boys who take up hockey and, more importantly, who are willing to turn out for the School on Saturdays has dropped to the level at which about fifteen boys are available for team selection in each of third and fourth year.

As girls come up through the School the decreasing number of hockey boys is likely to make it increasingly difficult to maintain a section as large as in the past.

In the face of our diminishing numbers and the increase in senior boys playing hockey in the other city secondary schools, it has been decided to discontinue our 3rd XI. The znd XI will be withdrawn from the senior league and its matches will be largely confined to interschool fixtures which have previously been fulfilled partly by the znd XI and partly by the 3rd XI. 2nd XI Record Played Won Drawn Lost For Against i8 6 z8 3 40 9 Team—A. G. Morrison (Captain), I. E. Massie (Vice-Captain), G. Beedie, J. Bisset, D. Cooper, N. A. Gibb, I. MacLeod, D. Moir, G. Skinner, L. Steel, G. Wilson.

About half of the fixtures arranged for the znd XI were cancelled because of wet pitches. The side lost more games than it won, yet a respectable position was still gained in the league. Although some of the results were rather disappointing the team retained its enthusiasm and endeavoured to play constructive hockey. Much of the trouble of the team could be traced to a slowness in bringing the ball under control and hesitation in passing so that much good running off the

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine ball tended to be nullified. Their best result was a victory of eight goals to nil against Grove Academy znd XI. Ian Massie was required for the 1st XI on several occasions and in these matches his absence was felt. The players who made most mark on the play were Morrison, who also captained the team well, Massie, Beedie, Gibb, Skinner and Wilson.

36

3rd XI XI suffered badly from cancelled 3rd the Like the other teams games. The season started with the team rather unsure but as time went on the side began to settle to play more positive hockey. Davidson played consistently well in goal, while in the outfield Ross was a distinct asset to the side. Sinclair had a good reason both as a player and as team captain.

Players—N. Bradford, L. Burnett, M. Craib, A. Davidson (ViceCaptain), R. Dempsey, R. Gauld, C. Hepburn, G. Jones, G. Mann, K. Murray, S. Robertson, D. Ross, S. Seabrooke, D. Sinclair (Captain), T. Watt.

Fourth Year Hockey Record Against Lost For Drawn Played 23 1z 0 38 4 At the beginning of the season the team was introduced to the 4:2:4 system which proved, initially, a difficult formation for the boys to usc. But, as they adapted gradually it began to emerge a promising way to organise the side.

The defence started with poor covering and positioning. These faults were reduced as the defence settled and opposing teams found it more difficult to move the ball into the circle. Sang and McDowall showed good stopping and hitting, McLennan was composed under pressure and Scott tackled with determination. In goal Hendry was basically sound although at times he lacked the determination and concentration so essential in that position.

The mid-field players were consistent and industrious, tackling and passing the ball well.

Mid-way through the season the forwards lost their ability to score, a phase which ended when Stephen, who scored most goals over the season, had a total of six against Peterhead Academy.

Players—A. Gibson, I. Hendry, M. Hendry, J. Hunter, G. Laird (Vice-Captain), D. McDowall, F. McLennan, P. Nicoll, P. Reid, D. Robb, V. Sang (Captain), R. Scott, L. Stephen, A. Stewart.

Won 8

Third Year Hockey On Monday afternoons Mr. Lawson, Mr. Parry and Mr. Rae were involved with the third year boys. On Saturday mornings Mr. Parry and Mr. Rac arranged practices when the pitches were available and

School Sporting Activities

37 dry. As this is the first season of hockey for the boys no inter-school games were arranged until the second half of the season. The wetness of that part of the season led to a number of games being cancelled.

Only four games were played. These were against Kincorth (one draw, one loss) a win against Hilton and a loss against Powis. The team put up a creditable performance in all matches, particularly as the other teams often had older and more experienced players.

It is to be hoped that the team will continue into next season where they should find more competitive play.

The third year hockey boys are indebted to Mr. Rae for his continued interest both in practice games and as an umpire.

David Mathew — School Tribute David Mathew retired this year after a number of years' service at Rubislaw. During that time he not only continued the tradition of maintaining the field and pavilion's reputation as one of the finest in Scotland, but even contrived to enhance it. He did this in his modest quiet way: efficiently and without fuss. Everyone who used the field owes a lot to his consideration, willingness to work outside normal duties and his enthusiasm for all things concerning the School. But perhaps inevitably those who played for teams know more about his efforts for the School. He was always their best supporter, win or lose, and his pawky humour was much appreciated. He will be greatly missed and we hope that he and Mrs. Mathew will have a long and happy retirement.

38

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

C.C.F. Notes R.A.F. Section Last year's camp was held at the R.A.F. Regiment depot at Catterick, in the North Riding of Yorkshire and was enjoyed by all even though the Cadets were under canvas for the first time for many years.

This was the last official camp of Flight Lieutenant Brooks, who has gone to Cults Academy, but it looks fairly certain, that, once he is settled in his new post, he will be coming back to help with the Section.

Our congratulations arc due to Flt. Sgt. N. Bradford on his successful completion of a Flying Scholarship at Scone. Of the thirty hours he spent flying, ten were solo. W.O. G. Simpson was successful in being selected for an Overseas Flight early in November and spent a week in Malta. Early this year W.O. Simpson was awarded the "Commandant's Certificate of Good Service"—the only one to come to the C.C.F. in Scotland. It was presented by Brigadier A. O. L. Lithgow, m.c., Highland Area Commander, during his visit to the Contingent on 7 February.

Group Captain J. Hunter, Commandant—Headquarters Air Cadets, Scotland and Northern Ireland, Royal Air Force, Turnhouse, visited the Section on z8 March and commented very favourably on their work.

Cadets who sat the R.A.F. Proficiency Part II all passed, several with distinction. Unfortunately, no Chipmunk flying has been possible since camp, mainly due to the restrictions in fuel, but these are due to be lifted shortly. Two Cadets, Cpl. P. Still and Cdt. B. Cooper are going on a Continuous Gliding Course, at Milltown, near Lossiemouth during Easter.

Annual Camp this summer will be at R.A.F. Waddington—near Lincoln, which we have come to know and love so well in the last few years.

Finally, the Section would like to thank Squadron Leader R. McLeod for his ceaseless support in the last year, both as Section and Contingent Commander.

Army Section Army Section we have had a very reassuring the in far this year So couple of terms. It started off with an enthusiastic number of recruits and although attendances fluctuate we have a keen nucleus. It is really vital that we get continuous attendances, so that the cadets can undergo properly, the various promotional parts of their syllabus.

We continue to maintain good relations with several local T.A.V.R. units and are indebted to them for their support in all ways. Particular thanks go to Lt.-Col. J. Mann who has undertaken the First Aid training with the senior cadets.

We welcome to the Section an old boy and ex-cadet of the School, Mr. George Lawrence who has filled a vacancy in the Army Section.

Music .Notes

39 Under the expert guidance of S.S.I. H. Hopkins a new venture this term has been air rifle shooting which although just started has already proved a great success.

Several stages of the Proficiency Certificate are being tested this term and it seems that the new syllabus is working in more the way it should, and our first lot of cadets through all of it should do so this summer.

With the acquisition by the School of a minibus, one of our greatest problems hitherto of transport, will be much easier. With this vehicle our mobility for weekend work and range training, etc., should be greatly increased.

Music Notes The Annual Concert took place on 31 May 1973 in the Music Hall, when the main item was a performance of Haydn's "Nelson Mass"— an ambitious choice of work, but the choir and orchestra rose to the occasion and provided some thrilling moments for the audience. The soloists for this work were Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Maureen McDougall, Drummond Hart and Hugh McLeod. The orchestra performed music

by Mendelssohn and Moussorgsky, and Mr. Tulloch was the soloist in the first movement of Handel's Organ Concerto in B flat. We were again pleased to welcome the Primary School Choirs of Ashley Road, Mile-End, Skenc Street and Skene Square, whose performances are always refreshing. The concert came to a rousing end with the Scottish premiere of "A Burns Fantasia" written by Mr. Hawksworth—the arrangement of Burns' songs showing the ingenuity and skill we have come to associate with Mr. Hawksworth, who directed the performance.

All through the winter term cries of "Ut . . ." echoed from Music Room z, and mutterings of "Jolly Wat, jolly, jolly Wat", etc., were heard—the title "The Jolly Shepherd" was synonymous with despairing looks and groans. But out of our despair came our Christmas carol service in St. Machar's Cathedral. This was well attended and a varied programme of carols sung in German, French, Gaelic, Spanish, Latin and, of course, English, was presented by the Madrigal Choir and—for the first time—a Girls' Choir. The brass ensemble conducted

by Mr. Foster was heard to good advantage in the fine setting of the Cathedral. Choir and orchestra joined forces for another "first", the Jolly Shepherd by Ian Kellam. It proved worth the effort with the addition of orchestral accompaniment and our thanks go to the many staff members who augmented the orchestra.

We said farewell to Mr. Hawksworth as Head of the Music Department and congratulate him on his appointment as Adviser in Music for Aberdeen. Through the winter term he somehow managed to commute between the School and the Music Centre, and a hot line was established; sometimes it was a case of "we seek him here, we seek him there", but we arc in his debt for bringing the term to such a successful conclusion.

Aberdeen Grammar School Magatine The lunch-time recitals have again offered a variety in content. We opened with a two-piano recital by Mrs. Houlding and Mr. Tulloch; and Garth Knox, Andrew Laing, Ian McLennan and Boris Webster provided a programme of string music. The original piano version of "Pictures at an Exhibition" was presented by Mrs. Nelda Hamilton, the woodwind pupils, brass ensemble and madrigal choir all contributed and a vocal recital was given by Mrs. Isabel Gill and Mrs. Brown.

The Aberdeen Trio played the Shostakovitch Trio for us and the final concert saw the birth of a new orchestra with a number of the staff displaying their musical virtuosity.

The School orchestra, choirs and brass group have their regular rehearsals after school hours and are working now towards this year's concert which will be held on 3o May in the Music Hall.

40

Clubs and Societies Scripture Union This year a junior Scripture Union group has been formed for first year pupils. It is affiliated with the world-wide Inter-School Association which has groups meeting in many Scottish schools and which organise Easter and Summer camps throughout the country.

By a variety of approaches the members of the group are seeking to work out the relevance of the Bible and the Christian Faith for living today. The programme so far has included slides, film strips, speakers, guitar music, records, discussions and quizzes.

Next session we hope the group will expand to include second year and that we shall be able to share meetings and outings with groups from other Aberdeen schools.

We would like to thank Mrs. Watt for her help in the organisation of our meetings.

Electronics Club The Electronics Club, founded this year, is open to years III, IV, and V. The activities of the Club involve small projects for the younger members, to introduce them to electronic components, the art of soldering, etc. The older boys who have projects of their own use the facilities offered by the Club, and assist the younger members with their projects. Although the membership has been small this years, this has been offset by the enthusiasm of the boys.

It is hoped that we will have many new members next year, and that it will be as successful as this one has been. We wish to thank Mr. Lowe, Mr. Scott and Mr. Trail, for their invaluable assistance in the construction of the projects.

Aquarist Society In its first year the Aquarist Society made an excellent start with the building of a cabinet, housing eight small tanks. These tanks are

Presentation to Mr. Skinner i Picture by courtesy of Aberdeen Journals Ltd.:

Classical

V, 1929

BACK Row (left to right): James Stephen, Royston J. Milne, Stuart Middleton, John D. MacLennan, William H. Stephen, Alexander Slessor, Hector Gray, William Crag.

FRONT Row (left to right): George Whitson, Ian Stewart (behind), Norman Clarke, George Milne, Alexander Mackie, Mr. Gray (Form Master), Robert Grate, Albert Christie, William Pennie (front), James Craig (behind), Alastair MacLennan.

The Junior Drama Club at rehearsal. . . Duncan McDowell (Badger), Peter Kelly (Water-Rat), Alex Parler (Toad), Peter Duncan (Mole), Stephen Illsley (front end of Alfred), J. P. Irvine (back end of Alfred).

- --" - - ' - 'No

• _ - • •IMP -mar..

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• .4.4k

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I

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• -

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The Canoe Club on their outing on the River Spey

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The Rowing Club exercise on the River Dec

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Club Notes 41 available to any person who wishes to keep tropical fish. So far these tanks have been used for the breeding of exotic fish such as the Siamese Fighting Fish and the Zebra Danio.

1974 saw the death of an "old friend" a fish called Oscar which regularly jumped clean out of the water for pieces of meat. Perhaps Oscar's avid appetite explains the compulsion that some pupils felt, to drop into the tank such tasty morsels as bits of soap and "Polo mints".

Later this year we hope to keep an octopus in a coldwater "Native Marine Aquarium". Octopuses and other interesting water-dwelling creatures suggest a bright future for the Aquarist Society.

Biological Society This, the first year of the Society has been moderately successful.

The paucity of numbers has been more than compensated for by the regularity with which our members have attended on Tuesday evenings.

This year members have been mainly involved with their own, personal projects, although a very successful talk on the topic of the Loch Ness Monster was given by Mr. Granger, an authority on the subject. Next year, however, the Society hopes to expand and diversify, showing films and arranging more talks about wild life.

The Chess Club Although the Chess Club had a small membership this year, we entered a reasonably strong team for the Scotsman trophy. The team consisted of: G. Crook, D. McAllister, I. Simpson and J. Robertson; Reserves, I. McLennan, M. Harley. Although we lost only one match, we narrowly failed to qualify from our section.

These were our only competitive matches as the Aberdeen Schools League, in which we were second last year, did not function this year.

We would like to thank Mr. Galloway for his help as Honorary President and Mr. Hopkins for his help in the arrangement of matches.

The Motor Club This has been a very successful year for the Motor Club. Membership has greatly increased and we have diversified our activities. We have acquired two vehicles, a Skoda at the beginning of the year, and a Riley which was kindly donated by Mr. C. Anstock of last year's sixth year. We are in the process of improving the condition of the Riley with a view to selling it. Sadly we lost the services of Mr. Madntyre who left the Club at the end of last session; we gratefully acknowledge his help and advice over the last two years. Mr. Ross and Mr. Mitchell, however, have kindly agreed to take over the running of the Club, and their technical knowledge and enthusiasm has inspired all the members.

42

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

The Art Club This Club meets every Monday after school in Rosemount, Room 2I, for an hour and a half, or as near that time as the school cleaners permit (they're very obliging really).

The Club is well attended by members (mainly in the junior years) who pursue activities of their own choosing, but help with craft techniques and guidance is given if desired.

They work with various methods of printing, indoor and outdoor painting, claywork and ceramics, enamelling, etc., provided materials are available.

Altogether a very pleasant and absorbing weekly meeting.

Canoe Club The Club has now been running for two years and has proved so popular that we have been compelled to restrict to Upper School pupils. Due to the lack of time canoe training has been limited to after school hours on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Since last year the "KW7 Canoes" have been built by the members of the Club, under the supervision of Mr. Lobban and Mr. Lawson.

Now that several pupils have mastered the basic strokes of canoeing the Club has been able to have several excursions on the Dee. At the end of March a trip to the Spey near Keith proved very successful.

It is hoped that later in the year, with the School minibus now available the Club will be able to go further afield.

We are fortunate also in having a useful canoe trailer, built for us recently by the Technical department.

Folk Song Society Despite the unstinting efforts of Mr. May, we found great difficulty is securing guests, as the Tuesday afternoon meetings proved impossible for many. However, a few of our own stalwarts loyally performed to often disappointingly sparse audiences. The meetings were mostly attended by older pupils, but we hope that the earlier years will provide the talent and enthusiasm to carry on the Society's traditions. Sincere thanks are due to the semi-professional artists, especially Macfolk, who also represented us at the Minibus Fair.

Boys' Library Committee Apart from the normal routine of issuing and receiving books, our most important job by far has been the changing-over of the borrowing system. Entailing, as it does, the writing out of cards for all the zz,ooo books in the library it has been a hard and often boring business. It is a comfort to know that when it is completed, as it should be in the not far future, library business will be easier and quicker than before.

Club Notes

43 number of increasing Other changes worth mentioning are the books for girls being added to our stock, and the periodical display of books on selected themes or topics. These displays have stimulated borrowing; and quite a number of girls have spoken favourably of the number of girls' books. It will be library policy to continue to add to this number, and it is also hoped that some girls will join the library committee to help in the selection.

Junior Drama Society The Club was formed to provide a variety of drama activity for years I-III, and by the successful presentation of "Toad of Toad Hall" last year and regular informal meetings this year it has achieved that aim. Another large-cast play "The Story Tellers" is being given in June: it may not have a pantomime horse as "Toad" had, but it does have a red dragon, a man-eating ogre and Mark Irvine, so don't miss it!

Now that, at last, we have a drama teacher in the School, we can look forward to all-the-year-round drama work of many kinds, so if you are interested in learning about stage-lighting, scene-painting, and stage-carpentry, miming, fencing, make-up, modern dance, improvising plays for yourselves or acting in plays for the public, this is the Club for you.

If at times rehearsals for "Toad of Toad Hall" with its huge cast resembled troop exercises on Salisbury Plain, and if there were some signs of inexperience, the production on the whole deserved its good reviews. It was impressive as spectacle: there was vigour and precision in the colourful weasels, stoats and ferrets' routines and stage-fights.

It was good to listen to Mr. Tulloch's piano playing and David Millar's voice interpreted the score beautifully. It was well acted. Alec Parker, an ebullient Toad projected his personality forcefully at the audience even if he did his best to "corpse" the rest of the cast with dreadful ad libs about pantry-maids and butlers; Duncan McDowell's magisterially gloomy Badger was a well-judged foil to the other characters, while Peter Kelly's elegant and dashing Water-Rat and Peter Duncan's comic-pathetic Mole were performances which in their sense of style, timing and range of vocal expression suggest that the School is lucky to have two such actors available at the one time.

A play, especially a multiple-scene musical, involves the bringing together of a team expert in various fields, and "Toad of Toad Hall" owed much to Mr. Ord (set), Mr. Cruickshank (props and carpentry), Peter Kelly (production), Mrs. Mackie (choreography), Mr. Smith (masks), Mrs. May (costumes), and Messrs. Kiltie, Shand and Jamieson (stage-crew), who will not be forgotten by those of us who watched them wrestling with the backcloth and heard what they said, although they might in this be forgiven for following the example of the teacher who hysterically demanded, "Where is flaming Lucy * * * * * Rabbit ?"

Which all goes to prove that whatever else drama is, it is certainly fun for those taking part in it, in whatever capacity.

44

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine Dramatic Society

As usual the Society's activities climaxed with the presentation of the School play, which this year was "The Shadow of a Gunman" by Sean O'Casey.

The opportunity was again taken of having a senior pupil mainly responsible for the play's production. Helped by Mr. Valentine and with the co-operation of members of the English, Science and Art departments, a high standard of performance was achieved, which bodes well for the future. The appearance on the scene this year of the Junior Drama Group is another good omen, as it should help to provide a flow of talent from the younger classes and so ensure continuity in the future.

"The Shadow of a Gunman" This, the first of O'Casey's Dublin plays, was produced by senior pupil Sandy Macaulay and presented in the School Hall on z6 and 27 March.

Dublin in 192o was a city of fear and appalling poverty. I.R.A. gunmen battled with British Tommies and the notorious Black-andTans raided homes by night. Tens of thousands of working-class families lived in single rooms of slum tenements and the ensuing social misery pressed with crushing and distorting force on human nature. Yet with typical resilience and in ways various but distinctively those of their class and circumstances, those slum-dwellers came to terms with their world, producing in the process many striking characters. O'Casey knew these people and their ways; their world was his, he had shared it in his youth, and it gave sustenance and the rhythm of life to his artistic creations. In "The Shadow of a Gunman" O'Casey takes us into his world, into a single room of a Dublin tenement in i9zo.

It is not easy now to present that world convincingly on the stage.

The existence the author depicts was once shared by the slum-dwellers of our own cities, but—in Britain at least—it has almost vanished in the relative affluence and comfort of contemporary working-class life. The language of the play intensifies the problem: with its plentiful deformations, its pervasive repetitiousness, and its vernacular irreverence for the orthodoxies of grammar and syntax, it suggests the patter of the music hall. It was, in point of fact, in all essentials the real speech of real people and plainly shows the privative force of slum conditions. The producer is to be congratulated on the degree to which, working with a generally inexperienced cast, he overcame these difficulties and brought the play to life, realising the humour, the fears, and the aspirations of its characters in a performance that may have lacked the finishing polish of experience but was never shoddy in its substance.

The exigencies of school life make it difficult for casts to achieve

Club Notes

45 consequently play and for a good required intensive rehearsal the team work often suffers. It was pleasing, therefore, to see the welldeveloped interaction between Christopher Begg as the would-be poet Davoren and David Pitt-Watson, playing Shields, Davoren's pedlar friend. Begg brought intelligence and vigour to the portrayal of his complex part and gave us a Davoren who was particularly convincing in the cross-talk with Shields and in expounding his own self-deluding philosophy of life. He was, perhaps, less successful in the romantic scenes and in the climax of the action, where the tragic fate of the simple, uneducated, but courageous Minnie Powell reveals to Davoren the hollowness of his pretensions. David Pitt-Watson has an excellent voice for the stage, it is full-bodied and strong, and his pedlar was another good performance, Shields is a strange mixture of superstition, learning, shrewd calculation, and keen self-interest; he is also lazy. Pitt-Watson's interpretation conveyed, and often very effectively, the superstition, the learning, and the laziness but gave too little of the shrewd calculation characteristic of the pedlar; and the keen self-interest became too deeply submerged in fear to prepare us for Shields's indifference to Minnie's arrest and death.

The finest acting came in one of the minor roles. As the domineering Mrs. Henderson, Lesley Duncan presented a polished, professional performance; in her use of the voice, in posture, facial expression, gesture, movement, and in precise timing, she was an instructive example to the rest of the cast. Mrs. Henderson stood before us, clearly defined and completely convincing.

Though it is not possible here to consider in any detail each of the minor roles, it may be remarked that the excellence of Lesley Duncan's acting exposed any weakness in that of other players. Marion Forsyth's Minnie Powell, for example. though worked out fairly fully, lacked strength in its presentation. Garth Knox as the Auxiliary, though he put more zest into his playing, and there were one or two good moments, had not fully explored nor achieved consistency throughout his part and the atmosphere of menace so essential for this scene was thereby diminished.

Characters such as Adolphus Grigson and Mr. Gallogher are frequently regarded as more suited to the music-hall than to the serious stage. In one way or another they have re-created themselves in the image of their frustrated desires; it is their way of making life bearable, the way in which they have responded to the brutal pressure of their privation, the way in which they assert their humanity—they are eccentrics, in Lucac's sense of the word. Objectively regarded, their behaviour is comic; but is not comedy the best means of showing the dual nature of man's existence, the conflict between his desires and the social reality? If the essential humanity of these characters is lost sight of, then "The Shadow of a Gunman" is made poorer. The preservation of the human dignity of the man was the important feature of Peter Duncan's portrayal of Mr. Gallogher. It was a very difficult part for the youngest member of the cast and it says much for his ability that he made a believable Mr. Gallogher.

Tribute must be paid to the cast as a whole for the consistency and

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine 46 axiality of their Irish accents—an outstanding feature of the presentation. Much hard work must have been done to achieve this. The backstage crew under the able management of Alan Kiltie deserve special mention for maintaining their high standard of work.

One criticism of the production may be made; the pace was not under control throughout the play and the action stopped without the sense of finality which a controlled ending gives. But that apart it was a commendable performance by all concerned and justified again the policy of entrusting productions to pupils.

J.T. Gymnastic Club The Gymnastic Club was started in August and is supervised by Mr. Lobban and Miss Ramsey. Our activities have varied: practising for B.A.G.A. badges, and for the School fair, and engaging in a Club competition. We have also had two films, and have enjoyed ourselves.

Scottish Country Dancing Club The Club, formed this year, meets on Wednesdays at lunch time.

We entered three teams for the Scottish Country Dancing Festival in Harlaw Academy, and our "A" team won the shield. We would like to thank Miss Ramsey for giving so freely of her time to coach us, and Mrs. Cowie for playing the piano for us.

Air Gun Club The Air Gun Club was formed in the autumn of 1973. Second Former James Dalgarno approached his English master, Mr. J. Davidson, about the possibility of creating such a club, and the first meetings were held in Room 16, and a committee formed, with J. Dalgarno as President, Mr. Davidson as Hon. President and Norman Keilloh, the Treasurer.

Difficulty was experienced in obtaining a firing range, but eventually the Corporation's range at Woolmanhill was rented in advance right up to the middle of June 1974. Firing takes place on most Mondays of each month, from 4.30 to S.;O p.m.

A number of masters and other individuals have helped the Club.

Prominent among them is Principal Teacher of Art, Mr. J. Will, who has produced targets and a sign for the notice-board. To them all, the Club wishes to express its sincere thanks.

Two minor internal competitions have been held: the first was won

by Mr. Keilloh, and the second by J. Dalgarno.

The Club committee extends a welcome to any pupil who wishes to join the Club. It is not essential for new members to possess their own air-rifles, but, of course, it is an advantage to do so.

Club Notes

47

Photographic Society The Society has thrived this session, with a membership of about thirty and a record of regular meetings throughout the year.

We have to record with regret the departure of Mr. McCurrach who has over the last four years encouraged and helped us so much. As his swan song he gave an excellent slide show on a wide range of subjects.

Now he has moved to a new teaching post at Turriff, and our best wishes and thanks go with him. Mr. Will is now once again keeping a watchful eye on us.

We made an interesting start to our programme with a visit to the dark rooms of the Aberdeen City Police; the rest has consisted of slide shows given by staff and pupils, encompassing a wide range of interests and abilities.

Projects undertaken by senior members of the Society have been a feature of the year, the most widely publicised one being the photographic coverage of the Grammar and High Schools' Christmas dances. Another major one was taking passport photographs of the boys going on the cruise to Russia; we had at short notice to produce over 400 photographs.

During what remains of the year we hope to undertake some excursions to places of photographic interest. The fact that there seems to be a lot of interest among our younger members suggests a bright future for the Society. Here perhaps, we should make it known that we have added to or renewed a good deal of our equipment; that we can sell paper and film to members at considerably less than shopprice, and have a comprehensive magazine library run by Richard McKenzie.

The Society thanks all who have in any way helped it throughout the year, and particularly Mr. J. Will, Principal Art Master of the School.

Judo Club This new Club which meets in Rosemount gym on Fridays at 4.05 p.m. under the instruction of Mr. Lawson, got off to a flying start.

Over sixty people turned up to the first meeting; consequently it was decided to limit membership to the first, second and third years of the School and to any seniors who possess their own suits.

Already some promising talent is emerging in both the Junior Boys' and the Junior Girls' groups, and it is hoped to arrange tournaments with other schools in the city. One thing we lack and would very much like to have—a lady instructor or supervisor. Any female member of staff would be made most welcome.

Shelter Set Little of a specific sort has been accomplished this year, though we have frequently met to discuss possible activities; and it is disappointing to have to record that our membership has declined over the past

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine 48 year with no recruits at all from the middle school. Anyone who is interested in the "Shelter Campaign for the Homeless" should get in contact with Mr. Marr in Room 13 (Rosemount) on any day of the week.

Hillwalking Club This year has been one of the Club's busiest. In addition to the usual outings at weekends, full use has been made of unexpected holidays, with a trip to the Devil's Elbow area on Princess Anne's wedding day and another to Kerloch on election day. Both these trips drew about seventy members, a figure usually reached only on the annual excursion to Lochnagar.

The Club is now looking forward to the two main events of the summer term, the junior members' weekend at Aviemore and the senior's long weekend at Killin, where the qualities of the School minibus on Highland roads will be tested. The publication of the Club magazine is also eagerly awaited.

Our thanks are due to all the members of staff who have helped during the year, particularly to Mr. Spence and Mr. Stephen who organise the trips. Lastly our thanks to kin Keir and Alec Hutchison of F.F. and F. for their skill and patience with the Club on some of Britain's worst roads.

Motor-Cycle Club 1973 cannot be regarded as a good year for the Club. We had many difficulties, mainly financial, but, from grants for tools, a generous gift of a scooter from two members of the F.P. Club, a steel bench and vice from the technical adviser, and money from subscriptions, the Club is gaining momentum and expanding rapidly.

Activities this session included the repair and building of bikes, the younger members' acquisition of basic riding skills on the scooter and recent work on repairing a "go-kart". Our projected activities are the acquisition of more motor-cycles for training, a road mock-up within School grounds for training and off-road riding on grass, etc.

The Club meets every Thursday at 4 o'clock and every Saturday morning at to o'clock in the hut at School. New members will be made very welcome—especially senior members with their own machines.

On behalf of all members, I would like to thank Mr. Rodwell, master-in-charge, for his help, patience, and enthusiasm, without whom the Club could not operate as it does today.

Railway Society This session has seen a considerable fall in membership from last year's peak. The old model railway was deemed unsatisfactory and abandoned. A new layout was planned and work has progressed slowly on it.

Club Notes

49 With the exception of the annual Glasgow trip there is nothing else to report, but it is hoped to rectify this situation next session.

Our sincere thanks must go to Mr. Bruce for all the help and encouragement he has given the Society over the years and we are indeed sorry to hear of his impending retiral.

Geographical Society As in past years, membership of the Society was high at the start of the session. However with the difficulty in securing films, due to the recent crisis, and the increase in the number of societies and clubs operating on a Monday, numbers declined slightly.

However for those who have attended, the programmes have been informative and entertaining. The first meeting consisted of an illustrated talk on Austria by Mr. Cormack (Geography Department).

The following term a talk on Greece was given by Miss Carter (French Department). Several films were shown from the limited selection available.

To conclude, on behalf of the Society I would like to thank the Geography Department, especially Mr. Gelly and Mr. Cormack, for their assistance in running the Society.

Stamp Club This year the Stamp Club celebrated its fiftieth anniversary and for the first time had several female members. In December a very interesting visit to the G.P.O. was organised where we were shown round the letter sorting buildings in Crown Street. Early in the year we had a talk on stamp design and European stamps by Mr. Will.

Mr. Hawksworth followed this with a talk about "Musical Stamps" and several pupils also gave talks on a variety of subjects. Since Christmas Mr. Murray has shown us his very detailed German collection. Altogether this has been a year of many activities—swop nights, auctions and slide shows.

New members are always welcome and I would like to thank Mr. P. Scott for his never ceasing enthusiasm and also all our speakers.

Sub-Aqua Club This year the Club has made good progress, with several of the senior members reaching the third class diver status. During the winter, there has been pool training, with the younger members practising their snorkeling techniques. Interest and enthusiasm has been kept high among those impatient for their fifteenth birthday, for their first "shot" of an aqua-lung. The choice of places to dive is not so restricted now, because of the new School minibus. Already there has been one dive at Pennan, which was a welcome change from Altens. It is hoped to have dives along the west coast later in the year.

5o

Aberdeen Grammar School Magatine

Angling Club We opened this season's Angling Club activities with a trip to Aboyne Loch; there was a good turn out of old as well as new members. The weather was fair, everyone enjoyed the outing and practically every member left with a pike or two.

The "Optional Activities" donated L8 to the Club which was used to purchase more fly dressing materials and wooden artificial minnows.

We painted the minnows green and yellow. These proved most killing at Loch Skene, in which our President caught six handsome Jock Pike, which he ate.

To help us in our fly dressing we sought the "know-how" of Mr. H. Weatherly and Mr. J. Somers (tackle merchants), and were given a demonstration and helpful tips.

The fishing section in the Library has had new books added covering most aspects of angling. We now also receive, the Trout and Salmon magazine each month through the library.

This year our annual trip will be to Kintore.

Rowing Club The Club is now in its second year, and although the racing season has barely started, the Club has already won more events this year than we did over the whole season last year.

As mentioned in the last number of the Magatine, the Club functions as part of the Aberdeen Schools' Rowing Association (A.S.R.A.) and its members row in composite crews with boys from Hazlehead Academy. Last season the School had boys in A.S.R.A's first two crews. They competed in seven regattas and travelled a total of 2,400 miles, and although both crews failed to win any events they reached the final in several. It is also worth noting that Keith Moir of last year's IVth year coxed Aberdeen University's first eight, winning Elite VILLs at Newcastle, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and the Scottish Eights Championships and finished off the year by coxing the University's first four at Lucerne International Regatta in July.

In the local Inter-Club Regatta in November, both the first and second crew reached the semi-finals. The Schools' second crew met the University's second crew, and in a very close race they just failed to win, losing by six feet. The first crew confidently disposed of Aberdeen Boat Club's second crew and in the final they rowed excellently to win by a comfortable two and a half lengths from the University second crew.

At the Aberdeen Head-of-the-River Race in February, four Schools' crews took part in two divisions. In the second division, a Rubislaw crew from the Rugby Club showed their strength by steamrolling their way past four crews to win the division by twelve seconds. In the first division, the Schools' first crew were favourites to win the Restricted Pennant. Unfortunately (for them) they were passed after two miles by the Schools' second crew, who won the Pennant by 33 seconds. In the same event, one of our IIIrd year boys coxed

Club Notes

51

Aberdeen Boat Club's first crew to overall victory in the race and so, of the fifteen winning competitors, Rubislaw had: one in the winning IV; four in the winning restricted IV; and all five in the winning Division II crew.

Both crews again competed in the Scottish Open Head of the River on the Clyde, but there the situation was reversed when the first crew passed the second crew to finish sixth, the second crew finishing tenth.

With such a good start to the year there seems every hope of an even better season to come, and with the continued help from Mr. Newton, who acts as coach, organiser, trainer, mother and father to the Club, rowing at Rubislaw will continue to expand in a healthy way.

Badminton Club in membership and enthusiasm has made the past An increase session one of the most successful in recent years. Despite the difficulties caused by the power crisis around Christmas the Club has survived using Rosemount Annexe. With strong support from the present Vth year and an oncoming younger contingent the Club can look forward to equal success next session.

Girls' Hockey Club September 1973 saw the formation of the first ever Girls' Hockey Club at Rubislaw Academy. Practices take place on games afternoons and, if there arc no matches, on Saturday morning teams meet for extra practice.

This year results have been mixed (4 won, 3 lost, z drawn) but the highlight of the season was on Saturday, zz February, when the "A" team won the First Year Hockey Tournament. For this success, members of the team were presented with lapel badges.

Members of the Club enjoyed an outing to Edinburgh where we watched the Scotland versus Wales Schoolgirls' International which resulted in a draw.

Members of the Club look forward to attending hockey camp at Stonchaven in August and we wish to thank Miss Ramsey most sincerely for her enthusiastic help and encouragement throughout the year.

The Ski Club The School Ski Club has seen many changes this year. At the beginning of the session several members of the VIth year got permission to practice on the Kaimhill Artificial Ski Slope on their games afternoon, and Mr. Cruickshank of the Art Department, who has been ski-ing for several years, was able to take charge of this activity and offer instruction.

The practice and experience gained from these weekly sessions provided a good basis for competitive ski-ing, and by December we had a team of four racers good enough to compete in the British Schools Ski Championships. The Championships were held on the

52

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

Hillend Artificial Ski Slope, Edinburgh, and the School team consisting of Campbell Kerr, Edward Argo, Michael Haywood and Simon Fraser finished thirteenth in a field of thirty schools from all over Britain. This encouraging result, in what was the first race for all four team members, attests to the value of regular practice.

During the winter term a new store was found for the Club's skis, sticks and boots, with enough space to allow equipment to be repaired in reasonable comfort. We were also able to obtain several large bamboo canes which, when painted served as slalom poles. In addition the Club purchased a stop-watch which made accurate timings possible on slalom courses both at Kaimhill and Glenshee.

Sunday excursions to Glenshec were well patronised in spite, once again, of an irritating shortage of snow.

At the end of February, the School entered a team (Campbell Kerr, Colin Haywood, Michael Haywood and Simon Fraser) in the Scottish Schools Qualifying race which was held at Aviemore. The team finished fifth and this position was just good enough to ensure a place in the final, which was held a month later at Glenshee. Being seeded last in a field of twenty, the School team did very well to finish fifteenth on an awkward giant slalom held on the Tiger Piste, and this position gives us a place in next year's finals.

Finally, I wish to thank all members of staff who have been involved in the Club's activities, and in particular Mr. Henderson, Mr. Cruickshank, Mr. Duncan and Mr. Lawson for their help and guidance in preparing and organising our outings.

Former Pupils' Club Section (Club Founded II September 1893)

Club Office-Bearers, 1974-75 Honorary President: ROBERT DOUGLAS GILL, M.A.

(Headmaster from January 1973)

Honorary Vice-presidents: GEORGE E. C. BARTON (1923-26) M.A. ERIC Ros BIRKETT (1920-22), C.A. JOSEPH ROBERT CARRY (1918-30), M.B.E., T.D. DOUGLAS PATERSON COCHRAN (1906-15), F.INST.I.B., A.A.1.B. ALLAN CAMERON FRAZER (1925-30), M.A., LL.B., W.S. ALEXANDER GRAY (1910-22), M.A., I.T..B. THE HON. LORD JOHNSTON (1913-26).

JOHN ADAM LILLIE (1893-1903), LL.D., M.A., LL.B., Q.C. ERIC LINKLATER (1913-16), C.B.E., M.A., LL.D., T.D. IAN GOWANLOCK MCPHERSON (1910-17).

SIR LESLIE DEANE MAYOR (1923-33), K.C.B., A.P.C., R.A.F. THE RIGHT HON. LORD MESTON (1901-02).

JAMES SCOTT GRAY MUNRO (1922-28), M.B.E., T.D., B.L. JOHN LENNOX RIDDELL (1907-16).

CECIL A. G. SAVIDGE (1913-24), M.B.E., M.A. JOHN VASS SKINNER, M.A., M.LITT., DIP.ED., J.P. (Rector, 1959-72).

Sir LANDSBOROUGH THOMSON (1899-1908), C.B., O.A.E., M.A., D.SC., F.R.S.E., LL.D. ROBERT BERTRAM WILLIAMSON (1906-18), D.S.O., T.D., M.A., LL.B. EDWARD JAMES WOOD (1908-21), M.A.

President: JAMES FRASER MCLUSKEY (1920-31) M.C., D.D.

Vice-President of Club and Chairman of Executive: JOHN WHITBY CRADOCK (1940-46)

Secretary and Treasurer: BRIAN K. CROOKSHANKS (1934-46), T.D.,

25 Crown Street, Aberdeen.

General Editor of Magazine: ALISTAIR GEORGE GRACIE (1953-66)

45 Colthill Crescent, Milltimber, Aberdeen.

53

54

Aberdeen Grammar School ltlagaine Secretaries of Centres:

Central Africa—GEORGE M. GROAT (1927-40), 2 Cornwall Lodge, Umptali Road, Beams Station, Salisbury.

Dundee— Edinburgh—DAvio A. BRITTAIN (1943-49), M.A., LL.B., 2 Circus Gardens, Edinburgh.

Glasgow—Jonni G. M. BIRSS (1926-38), M.C., M.A., A.C.W.A., 57 Whittingehame Drive, Glasgow W z.

London—ROBERT FALCONER (1944-58), 50 Hilland Rise, Headley, Bordon, Hants.

Malaysia—G. MURRAY MILNE, Diamond Jubilee Estate, Jasin, Malacca.

Yorkshire—J. A. N. WATT The Croft, Heads Lane, 'Jessie, Yorks.

Ireland—ANDREW M. M. STEVEN (1936-50), M.A., LL.B., c/0 Secretary's Office, The Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast.

Secretaries of Sections: Cricket—ALEXANDER M. DAVIDSON (1937-45), B.L., 18 Golden Square, Aberdeen.

Golf —CoLIN C. ALLAN (1936-45), c.A., 63 Gray Street, Aberdeen.

Hockey—STEWART L. Foams (1960-66), tit King's Gate, Aberdeen.

Rugby—CHARLES Rrrcius (1945-51), 25 Nethermains Road, Muchalls, Kincardineshire.

Executive Committee The Vice-President of the Club, Chairman.

Vice-Chairman—NEIL I. W. MELDRUM (1925-37), M.A., LL.B. The Secretary and Treasurer, and General Editor of the Magazine, ex officiis The Headmaster of the School, ex officio.

DOUGLAS N. GEORGESON (1929-40) ALAN G. CAMPBELL (1959-65) JAMES C. LYON (1953-59) A. KEITH CAMPBELL (1944-53) JOHN MCBA1N (1939-51) RONALD R. COMBER (1947-52) A LASTAIR C. MAITLAND (1943-51) ERIC CRAIG (1934-46) W. DOUGLAS MITCHELL (1946-61) JOHN P. DRUMMOND (1947-58) C. R. F. PATERSON (1959-72) JOHN L. DUNCAN (1958-71) DR. RANALD F. F. STEVEN (1933-43) A. J. M. EDWARDS (1908-21) Section Representatives : Cricket—DR. W. A. STEWART (1939-47) Goif—COLIN C. ALLAN (1936'45) Hockey—DENNis YULE (1960-66) Rugby—CHARLES RITCHIE (1945-51) Staff—ROY FALCONER Swimming—H. A. B. HARPER (1950-57) Hon. Auditors: MESSRS. BOWER & SMITH, C.A.

Annual General Meeting

55

Club Centre Management Committee ERIC CRAIG (1934-46) Chairman.

BRIAN K. CROOKSHANKS (1934'46) Sureimy and Treasurer.

COLIN C. ALLAN (1936-45)

JorrN F. HENDRY (1951-65) PHILIP N. Lova (1952-58) DR. W. A. STEWART (1939- 47) MELVILLE F. WATSON (1942-56) ERIC D. WATT (1937-50) Steward—Mr. William Mackie Telephone—Aberdeen 36827.

ALAN G. CAMPBELL (1959-65) RONALD R. COMBER (1947-52) JOHN W. CRADOCK (1940-46) DOUGLAS N. GEORGESON (1929-40)

Annual General Meeting The Seventy-second Annual General Meeting of the Club was held in the Club Centre, 86 Queen's Road, Aberdeen, on Monday, 29 April 1974. There were 45 members present.

Executive Report The Report of the Executive Committee of the Club for the year to 3I December 1973 was submitted by the Chairman of the Meeting, Mr. John W. Cradock, the Vice-President of the Club and the following are extracts from the Report: Membership 28.2.73 28.2.74

Life 116z 1169

Ordinary izoi 1185

+7

—16

Honorary 6 6

_ -

Staff 27 16

Total 2396 2386

-

-IO

—

-I

During the year the deaths of fourteen members of the Club occurred including Mr. James Reid, a former long-serving member of the Executive. It was noted that the links between School and Club continue to be fostered and that the portrait of Mr. John V. Skinner, presented by the Club, now hangs in the Library of the School.

General Business The Accounts for the year, duly audited and certified, were submitted and approved. A copy of the Accounts is reproduced elsewhere in this issue. Reports on the year's activities were submitted on behalf of the various Athletic Sections and on behalf of the Club Centre.

The appointment of Office-bearers then took place, and the Chairman expressed the Club's appreciation of the very capable manner in which Mr. George E. C. Barton, the retiring President, had discharged the

Aberdeen Grammar School Maga#ne duties of his office, and in particular expressed the indebtedness of the Sports Sections to him for the keen interest he had taken in their activities. The Rev. Dr. J. Fraser McLuskey was appointed President in succession to Mr. Barton. Mr. John W. Cradock was re-appointed Vice-President of the Club and Chairman of the Executive.

56

Change in Club Constitution

The meeting considered and approved an alteration in the Club's Constitution, the effect of which is to permit the admission to membership of female former pupils of Rubislaw Academy (Aberdeen Grammar School). This matter had been carefully considered by the Executive and views had been canvassed in various quarters. The general feeling was that, as always in these matters, only the interested will join, which is the present situation in regard to members in any event, and as failure to admit the opposite sex to membership might inevitably lead to a deterioration in the valuable links between Club and School the change seemed an obvious one to make.

Club Centre The Club Centre Accounts for 1973 are reproduced elsewhere in this issue. It is apparent from these that the Club continues to do a steady volume of business. Profitability was not so marked last year, but in the light of certain adjustments and changing patterns within the Centre it is anticipated that the trend can be reversed in 5974.

The main development in the Club since the last Report in these pages is that the Steward's accommodation has been completely renovated and in place of the cramped and almost sub-standard flat above the garage there is now no garage but a modern, 5-apartment house. While this has been going on, plans have been finalised for improvements in the downstairs bar to give it a better atmosphere and make it slightly less like a barn. By the time this report is in print the original carpet, which has seen much service and still more beer, will have been renewed and the surroundings will be altogether more congenial.

A very much bigger scheme for improving the main accommodation on the ground floor of the Club has been under discussion for almost two years and plans have finally been approved and building warrant has been granted. The Committee received authority from the Annual Meeting of the Club Centre to proceed with the scheme, which when completed will give the Club a new main entrance at the rear of the building and the entire ground floor to the front of the premises will be incorporated in one large, tastefully finished room. It is felt that there is much need for improvement in the general bar accommodation in the Club to make it more attractive and to provide a better atmosphere for members and their guests. The cost of this work is very high and the question of financing the project is now receiving the urgent attention of the appropriate committees. It is hoped that it will be possible to carry out the work at a very early date.

Centre Report London Mr. Gilbert Anderson retired from the London Centre Presidency at the 1973 A.G.M. Our new President is Robert A. E. Mennie.

His first Presidential duty was to chair the Centre's Annual Dinner at the Caledonian Club, in November. This was a pleasant, intimate function, with about forty attending. The main speech—the toast to "The School and the Club"—was given by parent Club Secretary Brian Crookshanks, with replies by the Club President and the headmaster, Mr. Robert D. Gill.

As usual we welcomed representatives from the Glasgow High School London Club, and the London Heriot Club. We have also been made most welcome at their Dinners, and that of our old friends, the London Gordonians.

As a new venture, members have a standing date, if available, in the first Monday of every month. These are informal meetings on the Promenade Bar of the "Old Caledonia"—a former Clyde paddlesteamer, now ingeniously converted to a floating pub moored by the Victoria Embankment at Waterloo Bridge. With members and friends dropping in during the early evening, those who have come along have found this a pleasant addition to the Centre's activities.

The main 1974 functions are the Supper and A.G.M. evening in October, and the Annual Dinner in December. Both of these are being arranged as we go to press. The Committee agreed that the Dinner should revert to its long-standing date of the first Friday in December this year. Members will be contacted by mail, of course.

Both functions will be held in London's Caledonian Club once again.

Members of the London Centre are always delighted to hear from F.P.s who work in or visit the South-East. If any reader falls into that category, why not contact London Centre Secretary Bob Falconer by ringing 01-240 2205 (office) or Headley Down 359z (home), or writing to 5o Hilland Rise, Headley, Bordon, Hants GU35 8LZ?

57

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

58

F.P. Club Accounts INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT for year ended 31 December 1973 1 972 £199 295 los — £599 484 23o x 231

sr 1,925 30 ---£3,551

INCOME Ordinary Subscriptions received prior to January 1973 Ordinary Subscriptions received m 1973 . . .

Arrears recovered in 1973 . ....

• • •

•

• .

•

. .

.

£17o.65 293.00 79.25 £542.90 513.73 235.65

Revenue from Investments (Gross) Transfer from Life Member Capital Fund at 3% Magazines: Sales Advertising Revenue .

• • Surplus on Entertainments Account Transfer from Entertainments Reserve Donation from Club Centre . .

Other Donations

.

• ,

. . .

. .

. .

. .

£40.93 210.15 251.1o -6.r5 1,700.00 18.00

. .

£3,267.53

1972

EXPENDITURE

£575

Working Expenses, including Honoraria to Secretary, Treasurer and Magazine Editors rs Honorarium to Auditors for 1972 .

• • • • • • • 1,505 Loan Interest 46 Corporation Tax . . . . .... .

• 186 Income Tax paid by deduction from Investment Income .

• 28 School and Trophy Medals . . . . . . . . .

Capitation Grants: London . . . .

3o . . .

• £30.00 Edinburgh . . . . . . . .

9.00 • 9 43 20 677 51

Expenses of visits to London and Edinburgh Centres . . .

Sports Prize Fund ....

Magazine: Cost of Printing and Postages. .

Transferred to Entertainments Reserve . . ....

Loss on Entertainments Account (after Honorarium to Entertainments Secretary)

•

£543.98 30.00 1,350.00 8o.oo 176.24 32.02

39.00 91.51 20.00 722.27 615

£3,125 £426

3.091.17 SURPLUS FOR YEAR

£176.36

BALANCE SHEET as at 31 December 1973 ASSETS

1 972

I. HERITABLE PROPERTY 86 Queen's Road Aberdeen: At Cost including alterations as at 31 December 1972 ..... .

Cost of Improvements during year

£35,365.27 4,240.00

£31,36.5

£39,605.27 II. INVESTMENTS 3,110 Ordinary 25p Stock Units Standard Trust Ltd. (At Cost) (Market Value [ 2,892) 4,032 Ordinary 25p StockunitsRaeb... Investment Trust Ltd. (At Cost) (Market Value £3,548) • • • • • • • • :7o Class 'B' Common Shares United Corporation Ltd. (At Cost) (Market Value 42.'26) 3,290 Ordinary 25p Shares Scottish Northern Invesiment Trust Ltd. (At Cost) (Market Value £2,797)

3,850

3,433

£990.07 999.57 884.45 976.34 3.830-43

(Total Market Value £11,363) (1972 £17,220) III. LIFE ASSURANCE Policy on the life of Mr. W. B. Hogg in repayment of Loan from Standard Property Investment Co. Ltd. . . . .

IV. CASH AND BANK BALANCES (1) Aberdeen Savings Bank Ordinary Account .

Special Investment Account .. .

(2) Bank of Scotland Current Account Deposit Account . . .

(3) Cash in Hand of Treasurer

.

•

.

•

.

• .

.

• .

£14.01 28.90

.

.

.

£117.27 16.97

.

.

•

•

3,231.01

£42.91 134.24 30.08 207.23

F.P. Club Accounts 965 2,757

59 2,I09.71

V. SUNDRY DEBTORS

£49,003.65

£45,360 LIABILITIES Less: Sundry Creditors Ordinary Subscriptions paid in advance Balance of Ordinary Sub. . . . scriptions received prior to January 1973 . . .

354 Subscriptions received in 1973 for future years

£967.02

£2,272

:6,024 15,000

.....

Loans: Club Centre Standard Property Investment Co. Ltd.

•

•

•

•

£183.35 160.00

. £20,496.38 . 15,000.00

343.35 35,49 6.38

£33,650

36,806.75

£11,710

£12,196.90

1972

NET ASSETS

REPRESENTED BY: I. ENTERTAINMENTS RESERVE Balance at 31 December 1972 . .

Add: (r) Bank Deposit Account Interest .

-

.

.

£527 80 0.55 £528.35 6.15

.

.

.

.

.

.

£7,434.88 420.00

Less: Transferred to Income and Expenditure Account

•

•

•

£7,854.88 235.65

Less: Transfer to Income and Expenditure Account

£522.20

4529 II. LIFE MEMBER CAPITAL FUND

Amount at credit at 31 December 1972 Life Members' Subscriptions received in 1973

.

7.434 III. CAPITAL ACCOUNT

Amount at credit at 31 December 1972 Add: (I) Surplus on Income and Expenditure Account for year .

(2) Proceeds of scrip issue: United Corporation Ltd. .

7,619.23

£3,648.09 176.36 31.02 3,855.47

3.643 IV. OTIIER FUNDS

Magazine Fund—Donation A. M. Geddes Legacy

£roo oo 100 00

100

200.00

£12,710

Er:1,196.9o

ABERDEEN, 15 March I97.4.—We have examined the foregoing Account for the year ending 31 December 1973 and relative Balance Sheet as at 31 December 5973 and found the Account correct. We are of the opinion that the Balance Sheet correctly states the position of the Club as at 31 December 1973. We have veriAed the various Securities supporting the Funds at the close of the Accounts.

Bowes( & SMITH, C.O., Honorary Auditors

for year ended 31 December 1973 1972 £22,637

£1,248 15,410

IIAR SALES LeSS: COST OP SALES

•

•

Opening Stock Bar Purchases

£21,349.48

•

•

•

.

•

•

•

•

•

•

£16,658

£1,556.27 13,656.52 15,212.79

£7,143.20

£7,535 MISCELLANEOUS INCOME

OVERHEAD EXPENSES

£2,976 1,319 8 48 644 1,925 136 171 13

231 24 400 97 .1.15 2 59

Wages and National Insurances, etc. .

Rates, Insurance and Feuduty Heating and Lighting . .

Repairs and Maintenance Donation to F.P. Club . . .

Other Donation .

Loan Interest . . . . .

Administration Expenses . . .

Telephone (Net) .

Cleaning . . . . .

Hire Purchase Charges . . . .

Honoraria . .

Television Rental and Licence . . .

Miscellaneous Expenses . .. . .

Depreciation .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

. .

.

.

.

.

.

.

. . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .

.

. . . .

. . . .

. . . .

. . . .

£3,063.87 1,461.05 950.97 909.21 1,700.00 6o.oo 56.25 243.37 31.68 220.30 — 350.00 96.97 274.98 243.80

£9,178

-

£1,653

9,652.43 £1,409.97

SURPLUS FOR YEAR

BALANCE SHEET as at 31 December 1973

1972

787

I IXED ASSETS

Furniture and Fittings .

Equipment .

. .

• •

•

•

£2,340

As per last Balance Shea £1,553.00 787.00

year

Depcs. £2 53.00 90.80

Ex,4oo.oo

£125.80

£2,340.00

£115.80

£243.80

£2,212.00

Added during

8x2.oo

CURRENT ASSETS

£1,6024 1,556 425 1,783 2 79

Loan Account Aberdeen Grammar School Former Pupils' Club .

Stock in hand Sundry Debtors Cash at Bank Cash in Hand

£20,496.38 1,006.51 801.89 2 ,395.03 423.31 £' 25,123.12

£20,067 Less: CURRENT LIABILITIES

£7,980 — £7,980

Sundry Creditors . .

Subscriptions in advance

• •

•

•

•

•

£11,150.39 347.60 11,497.99

£12,087

13,625.13

£1 4,42 7

£15,837.13

Club Centre Accounts £r,5oo 1,200 5,1 75

Less: LONG TERM LOANS Scottish Rugby Union .

A.G.S.F.P. Rugby Section Individual F.P.'s ..

. . .

•

•

•

•

61

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

£1,500.00 1,200.00 1,175.00 3,875.00

£3,875

£11,962.13

£70,552

NET Assets

£4,497

REPRESENTED CAPITAL ACCOUNT Appeal Fund and Other Donations

6,055

SURPLUSES .

Amount as per last Balance Sheet .

• . .

Add: Surplus on foregoing Income and Expenditure Account

£70,552

BY: £4,497.13

.

•

£6,035.03 1,409.97

7,465.00 £1 1,962.13

ABERDEEN, IS Starch 1974. We have audited the foregoing Accounts for the year ended 31 December 1973 and Balance Sheet as at 31 December 1973. We certify that, to the best of our information and the explanations given to us they are correct.

BOWER & SMITH, C.A.

6z

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

The Annual Dinner The Club's Annual Dinner was held in the Royal Darroch Hotel at Cults. In the chair was the Club President, Mr. George E. C. Barton.

The toast, "The School and the Club", was proposed by Mr. A. M. G. Russell, Sheriff of Aberdeen, Kincardine and Banff.

The replies were made by Mr. Robert Gill, headmaster of Rubislaw Academy and Mr. Barton.

The toast, "Our Guests" was proposed by Mr. Ronald L. MacKinnon with the reply by Mr. Douglas H. Dickie, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. John W. Cradock.

Those who attended the dinner 1905 James Leith.

1906 Douglas P. Cochran.

1907 J. Lennox Riddell, Eric J. Galloway, Garnet R. Fraser.

1908 A. J. M. Edwards.

1910 I. G. MacPherson, Avon A. Barnet.

1914 W. G. Hutcheon, E. A. Sinclair.

1915 W. W. Porter.

1916 Andrew M. Campbell, snr., George Fyfe.

1918 Ian G. Shinnie, Ian Lewis Smith, W. R. Wisely.

1919 Alex M. Wilson, John H. L. Innes, Peter Crombie.

1922 Alexander R. Smith, J. S. G. Munro.

192; Dr. J. R. S. Innes, George E. C. Barton.

1925 W. L. Forbes, George C. Massie, Alan C. R. Watt, N. I. W. Meldrum.

1927 F. R. Paterson.

1929 Kenneth J. Peters, D. N. Georgeson.

1930 George M. Anderson.

1932 W. M. Ewen.

1933 R. F. F. Steven. R. L. MacKinnon.

1934 Brian K. Crookshanks.

1936 T. G. Smith.

1937 A. M. Davidson, Dudley Annand.

1938 James D. Rust.

1940 Ian R. MacDonald, John W. Cradock.

1942

I. M. S. Park, Andrew M. Campbell, jnr., W. S. Wilson, Rae C. Barton.

1943 David A. Brittain, A. C. Maitland, 1944 Edwin Grieve, Keith Campbell.

1945 John H. McLaren.

1946 Robin Reilley, W. D. Mitchell, H. M. Aird.

1 947 J. B. Rennie, John P. Drummond.

1948 Michael G. Henderson.

1949 R. Mackay.

1951 J. F. Hendry, David K. Yule, Richard C. Shirreffs.

1952 P. N. Love.

1954 D. W. Smith, James D. Reid.

1958 J. Duncan.

1959 Martyn A. Batchelor, Campbell R. F. Paterson, A. G. Campbell.

1960 I. Gray, W. Gavin Gray, Stuart Forbes, D. N. Yule.

1963 Nigel G. M. Watt.

1964 Neil S. Batchelor.

1966 E. Davidson, R. Smith.

Dates not known. R. H. Cradock, Sandy Simpson, A. Hamilton, R. Nisbet, M. Webster, Russell Gray, Dr. H. McPherson, William Wood.

Staff J. Morrison, P. W. Scott, A. L. McCombie, J. A. T. Liddiard, Roy S. Falconer, Ian T. Stephen, A. G. Garrow, J. D. Murray, D. Hawksworth.

Section Reports Rugby It is unfortunate that we must open our report with the news that in the first season of League Rugby in Scotland the Section was relegated to Division III. The full playing record of the teams is as follows: Points Played Won Lost Drawn For Against ist XV 3o z3 0 35o 6 zo 7 znd XV 23 t5 6 2 265 45 2 3rd XV 20 0 13 306 290 7 Four awards of Half-Colours were made: A. Alitchelson, J. J. 0.

Short, W. Davidson, and G. F. Webster.

Representative Honours: North of Scotland a. Argentina—J. A. Hardie; North Midlands Under 235 v. Edinburgh—C. R. F. Paterson; North Midlands Under 235 a. Glasgow—G. Clark.

Forty-five players played in the ist XV during the season mainly due to the vast number of injuries sustained and the same back division did not play in any two successive matches.

Despite the disappointing season enthusiasm was high in the closing weeks and there is strong optimism for an early return to a higher grade of rugby.

At the General Meeting the new officials appointed were: D. N. Georgeson (President); W. Davidson (Captain); G. F. Webster (ViceCaptain); C. Ritchie (Secretary); M. G. H. Gibb (Assistant Secretary); J. Duncan (Team Secretary); J. A. Leask (Treasurer).

The new committee has already met and plans are well ahead to build the Section once more into a force in rugby.

Socially the Section continues to thrive, the highlights of the season being a train trip to Kyle on which the Section members did everything but drive the train. A further trip has been booked for 15 June this year and once again we shall be supplying meals and refreshments throughout the journey.

Another first time venture was a Section Dinner held in the Crescent Hotel at which the guests of honour were Danny Innes and Doug Smith. Seventy-five members attended a magnificent occasion and Doug Smith presented the Section with a Lions Jersey which now holds pride of place in the Sports Bar. Hockey Since the report last appeared in the Magazine, F. P. Hockey has declined somewhat and although last season we retained all the League Championships, this season the ist XI and 3rd XI have failed to maintain their positions. The znd XI have retained their championship. Grammarians continue to play regularly with a fairly strong team and have been recording some very creditable performances and results. In the National Indoor Championships we finished fifth. In 63

64

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

the Dix-Perkin Trophy we were beaten in the Semi Final by the Civil Service, the ultimate winners. In the Scottish Cup, although with a home crowd, we were beaten by Dundee Wanderers in the first round proper. However, we have also had a number of credits in our favour being the May Tournament and the Moira Forbes Cup and the President's Cup for sixes.

All the XIs have had mixed fortunes and setbacks due mainly to the adverse weather conditions and the fact that a number of our more important fixtures with out of town teams had to be called off. In common with other Clubs training facilities were restricted during the power crisis.

One can only therefore look forward to next season with renewed enthusiasm and we look forward to having very talented members of the School 1st XI join us.

We have to report that our Irish friends "AVOCA" called off their Easter Tour to Aberdeen. It looks as if future fixtures with them are very much in the balance in view of lack of support and the fact that there are now many other attractive Hockey Festivals running at Easter.

The innovation of National League on a trial basis this season has created a number of problems mainly for the organisers although F.P.s have maintained a fairly average record.

The Sections are now open and already two applications have been considered. We welcome Ben van Bilderbeek who has proved to be a great asset to the section.

Individuals have represented the Section at National and District level but the most outstanding is that of Ian Middleton who has gained his F.I.H. Crown entitling him to umpire games of Olympic Standard.

He has already been chosen to officiate at the European Cup Tournament in Madrid in May. The Section and indeed the Club may be duly proud of Ian and we all wish him the best in May. At the Annual General Meeting of the Section the Club elected a Section Captain as distinct from the ist XI Captain who has until now performed both roles.

In electing Les Forbes to this office the Club recognises his loyal services and staunch support in the past and his worthiness for this new position.

Although the season is not yet finished we are already preparing for the new season and in July Gavin Gray is to be taking part in the Scottish Hockey Association Coaches Course.

The new season's officials are: Dr. C. L. Forbes (Club Captain); J. P. Drummond (1st XI Captain); A. Waite, to Wellbrae Terrace, Aberdeen (Hon. Match Secretary); S. L. Forbes (Hon. Treasurer); D. Yule (Hon. Secretary).

Golf The publication of Magazine in June does not enhance the reporting of the activities of the Golf Section as it is mainly a summer section. I can report, however, for the season 1973-74, the Golf Section had the

65 Section Reports distinction of being the only Sports Section to win all their matches against Gordonians.

Fifty members and guests attended the outing to Ballater on 5 May, 1974. Four new members (ex Hockey Section) were made welcome and the rest comprised of "old faithfuls" of various vintages and some enthusiastic hopefuls. The weather was a mixture of sunshine and heavy showers.

As can be seen from the Prize List, the Section is not lacking in quality golfers. Further outings have been arranged for Ballater and Braemar on the first Sunday of each month until October.

The Captain of the Section for this Season is Mr. R. L. Mackinnon with Mr. A. C. Maitland as his deputy.

The Annual Dinner has been arranged for Friday, 8 November 1974 in the Northern Hotel.

Price Winners Category I

D. H. Chapman J. W. Cradock R. H. Cradock

79-11 = 68 72-4 = 68 73- 4 = 69

Category II

H. Easterleigh A. C. Maitland E. Craig

78-17 = 61 (guest) 89—zz = 67 84-16 = 68

Dr. M. Gibb H. McLean

71-18 = 53 7o-16 = 54 (guest)

Veterans (over 14 Holes) 6 Hidden Holes

Low W. L. Connon C. C. Allan

24 25

High A. Burr

36

Bogy Competition

A. C. Maitland A. J. Simpson

(guest)

sq. sq.

COLIN C. ALLAN, I-Ion. Secretary,

()(,

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

A New Peer George Yule Mackie (1933-35), D.S.O., B.SC. former Liberal M.P. for Caithness and Sutherland has been raised to the peerage and has been introduced into the House of Lords as Baron Mackie of Benshie of Kirriemuir, Angus. He contested South Angus for the Liberals in 1959 and was M.P. for Caithness and Sutherland from 1964 to 1966.

He was chairman of the Scottish Liberal Party from 1965 to 1970 and is chairman of Caithness Glass Limited, Caithness Cheese, Caithness and Sutherland Hotels, Caithness Builders Limited and Caithness Pottery. He farms at Ballinshoe, Kirriemuir.

Commander of the Order of the British Empire (C.B.E.) Professor Alexander Elder Anton (193z-33 and 19 35-4o) of the chair of Jurisprudence at Glasgow University and previously a lecturer in law and solicitor in Aberdeen was made a C.B.E. in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in 1973.

Deputy Lieutenants Two Grammarians were among three new Deputy Lieutenants of the County of Aberdeen commissioned recently. They were Maitland Mackie* (1926-28), C.B.E. and James Scott Gray Munro* (1922-28), J.P., B.L. The former is Convener of Aberdeen County Council and the latter a past President of the Club and already a Deputy Lieutenant of the City of Aberdeen.

Knight of the Order of St. John Major Richard Reginald Maitland Porter* (1895-1906), m.A., M.B., CH.B. who has been connected with the Order of St. John for over forty years has received notification that the Queen has been graciously pleased to sanction his promotion to Knight of the Order of St. John.

He was for some years in the Indian Medical Service, and subsequently became Professor of Surgery in Patna University in Bihar, India and was for twenty years on the staff of the Southport Infirmary in Lancashire.

W. Rogie Angus* (1915-z1), PH.D., B.SC. is now retired from the Department of Chemistry, University College of North Wales and continues to reside in Bangor.

Notes About Old Boy 67 T. Gordon Coutts* (1938-49 and 1950-51), M.A., LLB. an advocate in Edinburgh has been appointed a Queen's Counsel.

Gordon Strachan Cowie* (x937-39 and 1941-51), M.A., LL.B. who was formerly senior lecturer in public law at the University of Glasgow has been appointed to be the first occupant of the Chair of Public Law in that University.

Robert Watson Duguid (1951-56 and 1962-63), B.sc. is a Civil Engineer on roads construction in the Birmingham district, and his brother John Hutton Duguid* (1962-67), B.sc. is a mechanical engineer and at present assisting in the construction of an oil refinery at Natal.

Donald Grant* (196o-66) joined the Bank of Scotland after leaving school and after three years moved on to Ben Line Containers in Edinburgh to gain experience of the transport business. He has now returned to Aberdeen and is Director of Operations of a new freight forwarding and transport company formed specifically to service the oil industry.

Ian Bulloch Groves (1963-68) has been appointed Area Tourist Officer, based in Banff, with the Grampian Tourist Authority.

H. A. Barrie Harper* (1950-57), M.A., LL.B., C.A. recently qualified as a solicitor and is now in practice on his own account.

George David Smith Henderson (1936-46), M.A., B.A., M.A., PH.D. (Cantab.) has been appointed a university lecturer in the History of Art at the University of Cambridge.

John Fraser Hendry* (1951-65), LL.B. has been assumed a partner in the firm of Campbell Connon & Co., Solicitors, Aberdeen.

John Inglis (1957-66), B.sc. is investigating the causes and development of auto-immune diseases at the Department of Therapeutics, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

James Keay* (1955-61) who is a sports journalist has worked on newspapers in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Inverness, Somerset, Wiltshire and Bristol since leaving school. He is presently sports sub-editor on the Bristol Evening Post.

Malcolm Macphail (1943-47), B.SC., LL.B. has been appointed the first full-time procurator fiscal at Stonehaven Sheriff Court. Formerly a legal assistant with the Corporation of Aberdeen he joined the fiscal service in 1962.

Peter G. M. MacPhee* (1930-41) who has been with the Readers Digest Association for eighteen years is head of their print buying team and was recently featured in a journal of the printing trade. He was, at one time, secretary of the London section of the club. presently Thomas Ian Morrison* (1934-47), T.D., B.SC., assistant rector in Brechin High School, and a former captain of both the hockey and cricket sections of the Club, has been appointed adviser in secondary education to Angus County Council Education Department. The degree of m.sc. was conferred on him at a graduation ceremony held in the University of Glasgow on 3 November, 1973.

Peter Alexander Murphy (1945-51), M.A. and sometime teacher at the School is now headmaster of Logie Secondary School, Dundee, having been appointed to that post in November 1971. Prior to that he was principal teacher of English at Summerhill Academy, Aberdeen.

68

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

John Simon Paterson (1951-54 and 1964-65), B.sc. is now associated with his father in a salmon fishing business in Caithness following a two year spell as an industrial chemist with a company in London.

Parliamentary Election At the recent Parliamentary Election Robert Middleton (1944-48) and Forbes McCallum (1959-65) stood for Aberdeen constituencies as Socialist and Liberal candidates respectively but neither was returned.

Controller of Overseas English Services of the B.B.C. Eric Desmond Robertson (1928-31), B.sc. has been appointed Deputy to the Managing Director of B.B.C. External Broadcasting, and, as such, becomes controller of the overseas English services of the B.B.C. He will also be responsible for the central production departments which provide programmes for the world service in English and script and material for the 39 other languages in which the B.B.C. broadcast to the world. Before and during World War II he worked in Malaya as a scientific adviser and in the Malayan Forest Service from which he was seconded a jungle patrol unit of Malaya Command.

He also served with the Malaya Broadcasting Corporation in the British Embassy in Chungking, China and for the B.B.C. in Singapore and India. He joined the B.B.C. in 1945.

Neil Robertson* (1959-63), M.A., LL.B. who was previously in the County Clerk's Department of Inverness County Council has returned to Aberdeen and has taken up an administrative post in the department of the Secretary to the University.

Clement A. Stewart* (1962-69), M.A., M.ED. who was an assistant in the mathematics department of the School from 1963-70, was appointed Principal Teacher of Mathematics in Dunoon Grammar School in November 1970 and then an assistant rector in August 197z. In February of this year he was appointed Depute Rector.

Robert Still* (1924-27), M.A. has retired from his post at Aboyne Academy where he had worked for some thirty-eight years. He joined the staff as a teacher of mathematics and was latterly deputy rector. lain Johnstone Macbeath Sutherland* (1933-4O, M.A. Head of the South Asian Department in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for the last three and a half years, he is presently spending a sabbatical year at Harvard University. He has been appointed Fellow for the Academic Year 1973-74 at The Harvard Center for International Affairs.

"Special Service rendered to the Conservation of Flora and Fauna" Sir (Arthur) Landsborough Thomson* (1899-1909), c.B., O.B.E., D.sc., LL.B. was among those honoured by H.R.H. The Prince of The Netherlands by appointment to the Order of the Golden Arc in recognition of "special service rendered to the conservation of flora and fauna". He was invested by Prince Bernhard with the insignia of a Ridder of the Order at Soestdijk Palace on 3 May 1973.

Marriages

69

lain Innes Wolstenholme (1953-57 and 1964-66) whose marriage is recorded elsewhere in this issue has now qualified as an architect and has taken up a post on the staff of Aberdeen County Council.

Ninian Blundell Wright* (1910-23), M.B.E., M.A., B.D. has demitted his charge at Kingussie Parish Church after forty-three years service to the church. He left his charge at Dalmellington to become an army chaplain in 1940. Prior to his going to Kingussie in 1959 he was the minister of Fyvie Parish Church.

Marriages Buchan (1959-65).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on 6 June 1973, MICHAEL JAMES BUCHAN, only son of Mrs. E. Buchan and the late James Buchan, 16 Woodhill Terrace, Aberdeen, to Pamela May, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. McHattie, 45 Braeside Place, Aberdeen.

Carry* (1953-66).—At St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Aberdeen, on 27 October 1973, MICHAEL ROBERT CARRY, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Carry, 26 Woodburn Avenue, Aberdeen, to Susan Dorothy Wallace, grand-daughter of Mrs. I. Duffus, 4 Murray Terrace, Aberdeen.

Craig* (195 z-63).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on to April 1974, ROBIN ALEXANDER CRAIG, youngest son of Mrs. A. H. Craig and the late James L. Craig, 27 Westholme Avenue, Aberdeen, to Lynda Marie, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Sutherland, 150A. North Deeside Road, Milltimber, Aberdeen.

Crighton* (1943-55).—At Holburn Central Church, Aberdeen, on I I April 1974, GERALD LESLIE CRIGHTON, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. L. Crighton, 12 Kinkell Road, Aberdeen, to Anne Elizabeth, only daughter of Mrs. M. Young and the late Mr. J. Young, 51 Stanley Street, Aberdeen.

Crighton* (1954-55).—At Craigiebuckler Church, Aberdeen, on 2.5 October 1973, IRVINE COULL CRIGHTON, brother of Gerald (see above), to Jennifer Marian, only daughter of Dr. D. M. Webley, to Kemnay Place, Aberdeen, and the late Mrs. Webley.

Crockford* (1953-67).—At St. Clement's Episcopal Church, Aberdeen, On I June 1974, VICTOR WILLIAM CROCKFORD, elder Son Of Mr. and Mrs. R. V. Crockford, tot Cromwell Road, Aberdeen, to Doreen Mary, only daughter of the late Mr. C. E. Farley and Mrs. V. Farley, 67 Stewart Crescent, Aberdeen.

Cruickshank (i960-66).—At West Church of St. Nicholas, Aberdeen, on 23 February 1974, IAN SUMMERS CRUICKSHANK, only son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Cruickshank, zz Burns Road, Aberdeen, to Rosemary, eldest daughter of Mr. J. J. Mackenzie, 5 Westwood, Invergordon.

Davidson* (1960-64).—At Wardlaw Church, Kirkhill, Invernessshire, on 3 November 1973, PETER IAN DAVIDSON, only son of Rev. Peter and Mrs. Davidson, z6 Polmuir Road, Aberdeen, to Rosalind Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Munro, Cononbank Farm, Kirkhill.

70

Aberdeen Grammar School MagaVne

Davidson (196z-68).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on 2 August 1973, RONALD LINDSAY DAVIDSON, son of Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Davidson, 16 Belvidere Crescent, Aberdeen, to Kathleen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Yeoman, 29 Hopetoun Grange, Bucksburn, Aberdeen.

Fraser (1963-69).--At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on so August 1973, IAN CHRISTIE CAMPBELL FRASER, only son of Mr. and Mrs. William Fraser, 74 Cornhill Terrace, Aberdeen, to Brenda, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. S. Cooper, i i Rockhall Place, Balnagask, Aberdeen.

Hamilton* (1961-66).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on 7 August 1973, KENNETH MURDOCH LANDERS HAMILTON, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. G. Hamilton, 17 Hosefield Avenue, Aberdeen, to Elizabeth Watt, elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. Meres, 39 Powis Place, Aberdeen.

Maclean (196o-66).—At St. Clement's Church, Aberdeen on 8 September 1973, JOHN JEFFREY MACLEAN, son of Mr. J. Maclean, 56 Middlefield Place and the late Mrs. A. Maclean, to Aileen, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Benzie, 34 Gordon Road, Aberdeen.

McLeod (x956-69).—At St. Fittick's Church, Torry, Aberdeen, on z6 April 1974, ALAN William McLEon, younger son of Mr. and Mrs Ronald McLeod, 43 Leggart Avenue, Aberdeen, to Rona Elizabeth, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. Scott, 22 Wood Street, Aberdeen.

Masson* (1954-67).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on 29 June 1973, RAYMOND ALEXANDER LESLIE MASSON, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson A. Masson, II Northcote Crescent, Aberdeen, to Eleanor, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Dunlop, 98 Mastrick Road, Aberdeen.

Morrison* (195 I-65).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on z5 July 1973, HARVEY ELMSLIE MORRISON, only son of Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Morrison, 32 Devonshire Road, Aberdeen, to Dolly, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Adam, 34 St. Machar Court, Aberdeen.

Robb* (1946-60).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen on 3 August 1973, GEORGE ALAN ROBB, only son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Robb, Cults, Aberdeen, to Moira Ann, elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sydney M. Clark, 11 Raeden Avenue, Aberdeen.

Scace (1954-6o).—At Lake Sylvan, Alberta on 9 June 1973, ROBERT CHAs-roN SCACE, only son of Mrs. B. Scace, 162 Victoria Road, Aberdeen, to Margaret Elizabeth, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. K. A. Wright, 2416 Sandhurst Avenue, S.W. Calgary, Alberta.

Shand* (1954-67).—At Beechgrove Church, Aberdeen, on 27 December 1973, MICHAEL GEORGE SHAND, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Shand, io Albert Street, Aberdeen, to Margaret, elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Cowling, 18 Craigendarroch Place, Aberdeen.

Simpson (x962-68).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on 7 August, 1973, JOHN FRAZER SIMPSON, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. George Simpson, 42 Mile-end Avenue, Aberdeen, to Sheila, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. Stirling, 2 Hallsall Lane, Ormskirk, Lancashire.

Obituaries

71 Strudwick (962-65).—At Gilcomston South Church, Aberdeen, on 4 August 1973, MICHAEL JOHN STRUDWICK, only son of Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Strudwick, 113 Hayling Rise, Worthing, Sussex, to Alison, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G. Troup, 2O Tibbermore Gardens, Perth.

Thomas* (I948-56).—At Acton Register Office, on 31 January 1974, Huw WILLIAM LAWRIE THOMAS, son of Mrs. E. A. Thomas and the late Mr. H. Thomas, 84 West North Street, Aberdeen, to Susan Jean, eldest daughter of Mrs. A. J. Bentley and the late Mr. D. W. Bentley, 45 Bodycoats Road, Chandler's Ford, Hampshire.

Trail* (1961-67).—At King's College Chapel, Aberdeen, on 26 July 1973, ROBERT LUMSDEN TRAIL, Only son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Trail, 44 Birkhall Parade, Aberdeen, to Alison Margaret, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George McKay, zi Northcote Avenue, Aberdeen.

Wilson (195 9-65).—At St. Mary's Parish Church, ICirkintilloch, on 7 July 1973, ALEXANDER JOHN WILSON, only son of Mrs. A. Wilson and the late Mr. A. Wilson, 130 Bon-Accord Street, Aberdeen, to Sheena Elizabeth, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Turnbull, 29 Oak Drive, Lenzie.

Wilson* (I954-67).—At the Registrar's Office, Aberdeen, on 25 June 1973, GRAHAM ROBERT STUART WILSON, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wilson, 37 Braeside Terrace, Aberdeen, to Marshia Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. Port, 22 Craigton Terrace, Aberdeen.

Wolstenholme (1953-54 and 1957-66).—At Cults East Church, on 22 October 1973, IAIN INNES WOLSTENHOLME, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wolstenholme, 142 Muirwood Road, Currie, Midlothian, to Pamela, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Christie, 75 Binghill Crescent, Milltimber, Aberdeen.

Obituaries William Alexander* (1928-33) died on z5 May 1973 in Aberdeen.

After leaving School he took up an appointment with the Labour Exchange. He served with an Artillery Company during World War II and afterwards was appointed manager of the Ministry of Labour Employment & Insurance Department in Elgin. He later returned to Aberdeen to take up the post of Deputy Area Manager and, at the time of his death, had been retired for four years.

Thomas Edge Anderson* (1912-21), M.B., M.D., M.R.C.P.E. died in hospital in Aberdeen on 21 September 1973, aged 7o. From 1927 to 1929 he studied at the Pasteur Institute in Paris and in 1931 was appointed physician in skin diseases at Aberdeen Sick Children's Hospital, at the same time occupying the honorary post of medical officer in charge of the skin department at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. On the formation of the National Health Service in 1948 he was appointed consultant dermatologist to the North Eastern Regional Hospital Board and held the post until his retirement in 1968. During World War II he did specialist work in dermatology and vencreology with the Royal Army Medical Corps.

7z

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

Alexander Graham Booth (1907-14), M.B., cx.s. died suddenly on 28 March 1974. He graduated at Aberdeen University in 1929 and was a Medical Practitioner in Bedford for over forty years and was still in practice at the time of his death.

Herbert Davidson Collins (I922-26), M.B., cH.B. died at Aberdeen on 17 March 1974 at the age of 65. A graduate of Aberdeen University in 1941 he served as a doctor in the R.A.F. in India during the Second World War. At the time of his death he was in general practice in the City following his recovery from a serious illness.

His son PETER MU/s7RO COLLINS* (1960-66) is a civil engineer in Cardiff.

Radio-Telegraphy Pioneer Louis Reginald Harper* (191o-I 7) died in Aberdeen on 16 August 1973 at the age of 71. Well-known F.P., A. J. M. Edwards (1908-21) writes : "He was a pioneer in the realm of radio-telegraphy, just as his father had been in motoring's early days in the north of Scotland. On leaving School he attended the Aberdeen Wireless College and he served in the Merchant Navy as a radio operator during the last few months of World War I. Later, while still seafaring, he was interned for a spell in Russia towards the end of the Revolution. A period of service with the Marconi Company as a radio officer preceded his adding to his technical knowledge and experience at Savoy Hill when it was the headquarters of what was known as the British Broadcasting Company. On its becoming a Corporation he was moved to Aberdeen, where, starting off at Belmont Street and subsequently switching to Beechgrove Terrace, he worked as a technical engineer until his retinal in 1958.

A loyal Grammarian his interest in the school never flagged, even after his two sons JOHN LOUIS HARPER* (1940-54) and DOUGLAS Ross HARPER* (1944-58) had left, and he was a regular attender at the Annual Dinner of the Club. His large and, it is believed, almost unique collection of telegraphic and radio items, dating from even before `cat's whiskers' times, has been bequeathed to the Academy's Electronics Club and is providing the boys with much to interest them."

William Calthorpe MacKinnon* (1906—To), M.A., M.B. died in Aberdeen on zz May 1973, aged 79. He served for thirty-four years with the Royal Army Medical Corps and held the rank of colonel on retirement in 1951. He was thereafter appointed civilian medical officer at the Gordon Highlanders' depot, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, a position from which he retired in 1963. He simultaneously acted as recruiting medical officer both for the Army and the Royal Air Force in the north-east of Scotland.

Murray MacRitchie (1947-60), M.A. died suddenly on 8 April 1974 at the age of 31. Recently qualified as a solicitor he was in practice in a firm in Aberdeen. A keen conservationist, he was secretary of the Aberdeen Civic Society.

Obituaries

73

Internationally Renowned Surgeon George Edward Mayor* (1 928-36), M.A., M.B., CH.B., CH.M., F.R.C.S.E. died very suddenly on 4 December 1973 at the age of S4. Born in Malaya he attended the School for eight years, graduated M.A. at Aberdeen University in 1939 and M.B., cH.B., with honours in 1944. During the time he was a medical student he won several major prizes and medals in his faculty. In 1948 he graduated M.D. at Rochester University, U.S.A. and five years later took his Master of Surgery at Aberdeen and subsequently became a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh. Appointed Consultant General Surgeon to the NorthEastern Regional Hospital Board in 1959 he was internationally known for his specialisation in vascular surgery.

Professor of Classics at Wellington University, New Zealand Hugh Alexander Murray* (1919-25), M.A., B.A. (Cantab.) died suddenly at Wellington, New Zealand on 17 October 1973. Classical Gold Medallist at the School in 1925 he took a first class Honours Degree in Classics at Aberdeen University in 1929. He later studied at St. John's College, Cambridge and in 1932 was appointed assistant teacher of classics at the School. He then became assistant to the Professor of Greek at Aberdeen University and was subsequently appointed lecturer in classics at the University of Durham. In 1946 he was appointed Professor of Classics at Wellington University, New Zealand.

B.L. died in Victoria, B.C. on William Rae (188 8-1900), D.S.o., it November 1973 at the age of 9o. After graduating in Arts and Law at Aberdeen University and an apprenticeship with Messrs. C. & P. H. Chalmers, Advocates in Aberdeen, he went to Canada and was for over thirty years an officer in the Canadian Militia. During the 1914-18 War he served with the Canadian Army as an Infantry and General Staff Officer reaching the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. In the course of a distinguished career he was awarded the D.S.O., the Croix de Guerre and the Canadian Legion awards of merit. From 1919 to 1949 he served with Commonwealth Trust Limited, London retiring as Managing Director.

In the Second World War he engaged in welfare work for the Canadian Armed Services in England.

A military funeral service was held at Victoria, B.C. Well-Known Sheriff Officer and Amateur Swimming Official James Reid* (1924-34) died in September 1973 while in holiday in Switzerland. He followed his father into the firm of James Reid & Son, Sheriff Officers, Aberdeen as a Sheriff Officer and Messenger-atArms and was the third generation of the family to be a J.P. He was one of the youngest Messengers-at-Arms in Scotland when he was granted his commision at z1. As reported in the last issue of the Magazine he had been elected president of the Society of Messengers-at-Arms and

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine 74 Sheriff Officers for a second term and was only the third member of the Society to receive this honour. He was also a founder member of Aberdeen Junior Chamber of Commerce. Keenly interested in swimming he was an official with the Victoria and Penguin Clubs in Aberdeen and went on to become president of the Northern District.

In 1970 when Scotland was playing host to the Commonwealth Games he was appointed president of the Scottish Amateur Swimming Association for the second time thus becoming the first president to be so honoured in fifty years.

First F.P. Scottish Hockey Cap Adam Alexander Ritchie* (1903-8), M.A., B.sc. died on i i February

1974 in an Aberdeen Nursing Home. The Magazine of June 1914 records that in the spring of that year he played three times for Scotland—against Wales, Ireland and England at hockey, thus becoming the first F.P. to gain a Scottish Cap at that game. The Roll of Pupils records that he served as a Corporal in the Punjab Light Horse during the Punjab riots of April 1919.

J. Lennox Riddell (19o7-16) adds "a contemporary of mine, and friend, Herbert (1905-16) is, I think, the only survivor of the Ritchie brothers. I believe that llebbie' a doctor for many years at Long Eaton, Nottingham, now lives in retirement in the Isle of Wight."

Lawrence Don Robertson* (1915-16), M.B.E., cx.s. died on 24 January 1973 at Sanderstead, Surrey at the age of 73. During World War II he was a Flight Lieutenant in the R.A.F. and was in charge of the hospital in Tenby, Pembrokeshire.

Arthur Martin Scrimgeour* (1921-27), M.A. died on 29 April 1974 in Kent at the age of 65. Captain of School rugby and head prefect he was all-round trophy winner in 1927. After graduating at Aberdeen University he joined Glaxo Laboratories Limited and was their Far East manager for many years until 1954 when he returned to their London office. While stationed in Singapore he joined the Singapore Volunteers and when that country fell to the Japanese during the Second World War he was taken prisoner and worked on the notorious Thai-Burma railway of death. He was one of a band of fifteen F.P.s who formed a branch of the F.P. Club in a prisoner of war camp at Kanburi, Thailand in 1944.

His brother RONALD CHARLES SCRIMGEOUR (1921-24) lives near Dundee.

Ronald Fraser Skene* (1918-26), M.A. died suddenly on z6 March 1974 at Aberdeen. He graduated M.A. from Aberdeen University in 2930 and in 1942 joined the R.A.F. and served in India, Burma and Japan, reaching the rank of squadron leader. After demob, he worked in the catering industry in England for some years. He later became involved in the administration of the fish industry and was chief executive of Aberdeen Fish Curers' and Fish Merchants' Association.

He had served that Association for twenty years and was recently appointed European Economic Community Representative of the Federation of British Port Wholesale Fish Merchants' Associations.

Obituaries

75 He was a strong advocate of representation in the E.E.C. despite initial opposition within the Federation.

A member of the Executive Council of Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce he was also an enthusiastic member of Aberdeen Magical Society.

One of the "Greats" of Scottish Cricket Robert Garland Tait (1898-99) died in a Dundee hospital on 19 August 1973 at the age of 88. Considered to be one of the "greats" of Scottish cricket and the finest batsman Aberdeenshire Cricket Club has ever had, he represented Scotland twelve times, including three matches against Australia. He lost an eye in World War I while serving with the Black Watch in France and his career was mainly packed into fourteen years during which he batted in 272 matches, scored 10,}43 runs (38 times not out) for an average of 44.2o an innings.

In 1905 at Perth, when another player failed to turn up, the zo-year old "Bobby" Tait was asked to play for Scotland against the M.C.C., opened the batting and scored 113. An Honorary Vice-President of Aberdeenshire and a life member of Forfarshire Cricket Club his career in insurance took him to Dundee in 1909. At the time of his death his home was in Broughty Ferry.

Robert Tindall* (1913-2o) died on 3 November 1973. A banker, latterly with the Clydesdale Bank at their branch at George Street, Edinburgh he retired in 1963 and had been resident in Ballater for only a short time prior to his death. An enthusiastic sportsman he represented the Clydesdale Bank at golf and was a keen badminton player.

Prominent North East Solicitor Arthur David Troup* (1919-22), M.B.E., M.A., LL.B. died in hospital in Aberdeen on 17 August 1973 at the age of 68. A prominent solicitor he served his apprenticeship with James & George Collie, Advocates, Aberdeen, and worked in Edinburgh before returning to Aberdeen to join Edmonds & Ledingham. He subsequently became a partner with the firm of Gray & Gray, Peterhead. An Honorary Sheriff he was also one of the three solicitors representing the constituency of the Counties of Aberdeen, Kincardine and Banff on the Council of the Law Society, an appointment which he had held for 23 years. He was honoured with an M.B.S. in recognition of his services as Clerk to the visiting Committee of Peterhead Prison and was also Clerk, Treasurer and Legal Adviser to Peterhead Harbour Trustees and Clerk to Deer District Council. Very active in the community life of Peterhead, as a member of Peterhead Lifeboat Committee and a golf club office-bearer he was also president of East Aberdeenshire Unionist Association.

Alexander George Walker* (1906-20), F.C.I.I. died on zo June 1973.

On the staff of the Northern Assurance Co. Ltd. in Aberdeen for twelve years he transferred to the Egypt and Near East branch at Alexandria in 1932 and while there he was F.P. Club Consul in Egypt. During the 1935-45 War he accepted an emergency commission in the R.A.O.C. Middle East. After thirty years at Alexandria he retired on account of ill-health and returned to live in Carnoustie.

76

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

George Walker (t9zo—z7) died suddenly at his home in Aberdeen on 3 January 1974. He was born in North Shields and after school began work as an apprentice in an Aberdeen shipyard before moving to the Corporation Water Department in 1937. At the time of his death he was senior draughtsman with the North East of Scotland Water Board at their main office in Aberdeen. He was closely involved in civil defence activities since World War II and had been chairman of Aberdeen Civil Defence Association since 1968. Not long before his death he was presented with a long-service medal for this work and was one of the Association's two representatives on the Town Council Special Civil Defence Committee.

In paying tribute to his contemporary A. J. M. Edwards writes: "George changed his name by deed poll from Dodds after leaving School where he had been full-back for the local junior championship winning 1st XV of season 1926-27. A staunch F.P., when his playing days were over he served the rugby section conscientiously and devotedly as Hon. Treasurer from 196o until 1966 and was very proud of the Club's high reputation in Scotland. It was characteristic of the man that he was determined to put something back into the game from which he had derived pleasure as a player."

(James) Fenton Wyness (1915-20) F.R.I.B.A., F.s.A.(Scot.) died in hospital in Aberdeen on tz March, 1974 at the age of 70. Architect (in private practice from 1929-64), antiquarian expert, historian, authority on Aberdeen and its surroundings he was keenly conscious of the heritage of the north-east. His interest and enthusiasm for preserving features of historic and architectural merit anticipated the popular "conservationist" movement of today.

His comprehensive volume published in 1965 "City by the Grey North Sea" is his weightiest and perhaps best-known volume but there are many other shorter works concerned with the north-east history and countryside—some commissioned by the Education Committee of Aberdeen County Council—some published as a result of his long association with the Deeside Field Club of which he was a former president.

A sixty year association with scouting culminated in the award, in May, 1973, of—the Silver Wolf—the highest award in scouting. It was largely due to his efforts that Templar's Park, Maryculter was acquired by the City of Aberdeen Scout Association and opened, in 1936, by Lord Baden-Powell. He designed commemorative stones and monuments, and advised on restoration of historic buildings and heraldic matters. He advised the F.P. Club in regard to the design of heraldic crests for the Club blazer badge and tie and assisted with the necessary application to the Lord Lyon, King of Arms. He designed the School banner and four heraldic House standards presented to the School in 1947.

He was a Knight of the Order of St. John.

John Grant Colin Weir* (1946-65), B.sc. died on zz March 5974 at the age of 32. After leaving School he graduated B.SC. in agriculture at Aberdeen University and joined the staff of the North of Scotland College of Agriculture working for them for three years on Benbecula.

Obituaries 77 and management in farm diploma gained a he Aberdeen Returning to had been manager of the College's Aldroughty Farm at Elgin for about eighteen months before his death. He was a former chairman of the Aberdeen Young Farmers' Club.

Since the last issue of the Magazine, the deaths of a former Rector and a member of staff have come to notice.

Sir John Mackay Thomson* died in an Edinburgh Nursing Home earlier this year at the age of 86. Sir John was Rector from 19zo—zz and became Secretary to the Scottish Education Department in 1940, the position he held until he retired twelve years later. Born at Dunning, Perthshire, he was educated at Trinity College, Glenalmond, and Edinburgh and Oxford Universities. Sir John who was knighted in 1946 was appointed Rector of School but a year later resigned to become an Inspector of Schools.

Miss Mary Reid, died at her home in Aberdeen on 23 October 1973 at the age of 93. Miss Reid taught for thirty-five years in the lower School and retired in December 1943. She qualified in 1902 from the Church of Scotland Teacher Training College in Aberdeen and started her teaching career at Woodside, Aberdeen. She was born and brought up in Insch where her father was a farmer.

78

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

New Members of the Club (1 June 1973-30 April 1974) Life Members (Including conversions from Ordinary to Life Membership) CAMERON, JOHN BREBNER (1946-57), Garthfield, Inchgarth Road, Cults.

CAMPBELL, DOUGLAS BRUCE (1958-64), Clydesdale Bank, Ltd., Buckingham Palace

Road, London.

CLUBB, IAN MCMASTER (1 953- 5 8), 84 Bourne Hill, London, N.I5.

COOK, GEORGE STEPHEN SHAND (1948-59), 15 Valley Virus,

Marchington, Uttoxeter, Staffs.

CRAIG, DR. ROBIN ALEXANDER (1961-63), toz Woodend Crescent, Aberdeen.

DAVIDSON, RALPH ALEXANDER (1955-67), 3 South Avenue, Cults.

FRASER, PETER JOHN (1953-66), Neurobiology Department, R.S.B.S., ANU Box 4 P.O. Act 26oo.

GRANT, RONALD WILLIAM (195 2-59), 43 Stockethill Court, Furresterhill Road, Aberdeen.

HAY, IAIN ALEXANDER (1951-64), 3o Fairdenc Road, Coulsden, Surrey.

HENDRY, JOHN FRASER (1951-65), 39 Devonshire Road, Aberdeen.

LETTS, GEORGE CHRISTOPHER (1952-62), 42 Garthdce Road, Aberdeen.

LYALL, MALCOLM G. (1 935- 48), 8 Holden Way, Upminster, Essex.

MCDOUGALL, IAN ROBERT LYLE (1956-67), I06 Stanley Street, Aberdeen.

MACKIE, DR. ALEXANDER M. (1944-57), 7 Osborne Place, Aberdeen.

MACLEOD, ALASDAIR HUGH (1947-61), Malawi.

MARSDEN, DEREK KErril (1964-68), 5 Fintray Road, Aberdeen.

MEARNS, J. ANDREW GRAEME (1938-50), 3 Woodstock Road, Aberdeen.

REID, GEOFFREY DOUGLAS (1946-61), 7 Devanha Gardens West, Aberdeen.

STRACIIAN, RODERICK GEORGE (1954-65), 13 Bright Street, Aberdeen.

THAIN, GRAEME (1962-67), 4o Wellbrae Terrace, Aberdeen.

WALKER, DEREK JAMES (1959-65), 27 Rubislaw Park Crescent, Aberdeen.

WAUGH, MAURICE STEWART CHISHOLM (1 949-63)2 91 High Street, Elgin.

Ordinary Members ANDREWS, KEITH GRANT (1968-74), 38 Burnieboozle Crescent, Aberdeen.

ANNAND, PATRICK DOUGLAS (1967-72), 5 Wavell Crescent, Aberdeen.

ARMOUR, JOHN NEIL (1964-73), 32 Cairncry Road, Aberdeen.

BARNET, STEVEN JOHN (1960-73), 52 Gilcomstoun Land, Aberdeen.

BRUCE, ALEXANDER (1967-73), 3 Laburnum Walk, Rosehill, Aberdeen.

CLARKE, PETER NICHOLAS (1963- 74), 289 Broomhill Road, Aberdeen.

COLVIN, JAMES BUCHAN (1960-73), i8 Whitehall Terrace, Aberdeen.

COOPER, MICHAEL ROYSTON (1948-61), Walnut Cottage, Middle Assendon, Henley-

on-Thames.

Courrs, WALTER JOHN (1950-63), 17 Richnlondhill Road, Aberdeen.

CRUICKSHANK, RONALD LEE (1967-73), 603 Clifton Road, Aberdeen.

DOWNIE, MALCOLM GRAHAM (1959-73), 37 Braeside Avenue, Aberdeen.

DUFF, GORDON A. (1967-73), 32 Elmbank Terrace, Aberdeen.

FINDLAY, PAT EWAN (1966-68), 61 Springhill Road, Mastrick, Aberdeen.

FLETT, MICHAEL CRAWFORD (1960-73), 40 Belmont Street, Aberdeen.

FORBES, RODERICK D. (1945-58), 19o Roding Lane, South, Redbridge, Essex.

FRASER, MARTIN (1968-74), 128 Raeden Crescent, Aberdeen.

FULTON, WILLIAM GRAY (1967-73), 38 Woodburn Avenue, Aberdeen.

New Members

79

GARDEN, COLIN ROBERT ( I 960-75), 23 Inchbrae Drive, Aberdeen.

GORDON, DAVID RUSSELL (1960-73), 24 Braesicle Place, Aberdeen.

HANNAH, JAMES B. (1967-73), 4 Hammersmith Road, Aberdeen.

HENDRY, GRAHAM S. (1961-74), 36 Westholme Avenue, Aberdeen.

HISLOP, 15iIrrcitELL (1962-67), 1 Castlehill, Aberdeen.

KAY, ALAN MENznis (1967- 73), 41 Westholme Avenue, Aberdeen.

KENNEDY, JoHN (1959-73), tor Mastrick Road, Aberdeen.

KING, GRAEME WILLIAM (1966-72), 4 Beechwood Avenue, Aberdeen.

LAMONT, JOHN WII.LI.AM (1961-74), 37 Osborne Place Aberdeen.

LEWIS, GEOFFREY RoY (1967-70, 1972-73), Glenlewis Hotel, Dinnct, Aberdeenshire.

LYNCH, MICHAEL JAMES (1958-72), The Flat, Cordiners Garage, Girdlcncss Road,

Aberdeen.

LYON, ALEXANDER ALBERT (1960-67), 179 Bankhead Road, Bucksburn.

McANtiLTY, ROBERT STANLEY (1967- 73), 124 Gallowgate, Aberdeen.

MACAULAY, IAN (1960-73), 82 Gray Street, Aberdeen.

MCFARLANE, HARRY JOHN (1957-69), 89 Beaconsfield Place, Aberdeen.

MACKIE, ROBERT HENDRY Ross (1970), 1 I3ayriew Road, Aberdeen.

McLEoo, DAMIEN M. (1969-73), 16 Gaitside Terrace, Aberdeen.

McWILLIAM, DAVID ALAN (1966-73), 211 Cairncry Road, Aberdeen.

MARTIN, ARTHUR WILLIAM (1966-73), 7 Mount Street, Aberdeen.

MAssoN, DAVID (1960-73), 17 Burnieboozle Crescent, Aberdeen.

MATHIESON, ALAN JOHN (1967-73), 176 Crown Street, Aberdeen.

M/LNE, DAVID JOHN (1967—73), 32 Burns Road, Aberdeen.

MITCHELL, DEREK (1967—73), 66 Woodend Place, Aberdeen.

OVENS, RONALD (1959-73), 5 Airyhall Gardens, Aberdeen.

PEDDIE, RICHARD WILLIAM (1959-73), 5 Amagc Gardens, Aberdeen.

POTTER, JOHN L. ( ), Queens' Terrace, Aberdeen.

REID, IAN WILLIAM (1967-73), 12 Elm Place, Aberdeen.

ROBINSON, NICOLAS (1968-74), 8 Fonthill Terrace, Aberdeen.

ROLLO, THOMAS GEORGE (1968-74), I9e Mount Street, Aberdeen.

Ross, DEREK (1969-74), Greenfern School Lodge, Springhill Road, Aberdeen.

Ross, LESLIE WILSON (1960-73), 3 Beattie Avenue, Ashgrove, Aberdeen.

Rosy., Jomv W. D. (1958-71), 269 Union Grove, Aberdeen.

SMITH, DAVID STANLEY (1960-73), 105 Springfield Road, Aberdeen.

SMITH, ROLAND DOUGLAS ( ), 6 Fraser Street, Aberdeen.

SIM, ALISTAIR J. (1950-73), 9 Westfield Terrace, Aberdeen.

SIMPSON, ROBIN (197 1-73), 4 Campcrdown Road, Aberdeen.

STEVENSON, ANDREW INGRAM (1967-72), 3 Ashley Park South, Aberdeen.

STorr, JoHN (1 954-67), 38 Richmondhill Place, Aberdeen.

THOM, GORDON (1961-74), 75 Arbroath Way, Aberdeen.

URQUHART, IAN CARR (1962-68), 24 Hazlehead Place, Aberdeen.

WATT, THOMAS (1968-74), 340 Clifton Road, Aberdeen.

WILSON, LAIN ALASDAIR (1960-73), S7 Elmficld Avenue, Aberdeen.

WILSON, THOMAS LEIGHTON (1964-66), The Mains of Sclattic, Invcrurie Road, Bucksburn, Aberdeen.

YEOMAN, MICHAEL WILLIAM (1967- 73), 249 Westburn Road, Aberdeen.

YOUNG, COLIN NEIL STANLEY (1968-74), 21 Ashley Road, Aberdeen.

YOLNGSON, MALCOLM MACQUEEN (1960-73), 49 Hamilton Place, Aberdeen,

8o

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine

Rev. Dr. J. Fraser McLuskey President of the F.P. Club x974-75 The mantle of office as President of the Club falls this year on James Fraser McLuskey, presently Minister of St. Columba's Church of Scotland, Pont Street, London. Fraser McLuskey is a man eminently fitted to follow in the long line of distinguished holders of this office.

He attended the School from 19zo-31 before proceeding to Edinburgh University, where he graduated in Arts in 1934. He was a Rugby half-blue and President of the University Student Christian Movement. He entered New College, Edinburgh, in 1934 and graduated in Divinity three years later. After a spell as Sub-Warden of New College Settlement, where he was involved in social and welfare work, he was granted a travel scholarship to Germany in 1938, following which he was Scottish Secretary of the Student Christian Movement.

His appointment as Chaplain to Glasgow University was interrupted by war service during which he distinguished himself in service with the ist Special Air Service Regiment. He dropped into France deep behind enemy lines shortly after D-day and for more than two months was with S.A.S. men in their hideouts until the arrival of the liberation armies. He was the only non-combatant in this daredevil unit and in recognition of the gallantry which he displayed at that time he was awarded the Military Cross. His experiences are recounted in his book "Parachute Padre".

After the war he served in the Royal Army Chaplains Depot until 195o, and then was successively minister of Broughty Fcrry East Church, and of New Kilpatrick Parish Church, Bearsdcn, before being called to St. Columba's in 196o.

At St. Columba's he has had a very distinguished Ministry, and has been closely identified with various Scottish organisations in London.

He was in 1972/73 President of the Caledonian Society of London. His Alma Mater honoured him with the Doctorate of Divinity in 196z.

Dr. McLuskey still has a warm affection for the School he left more than forty years ago, and it is with pleasure that the Club confers its highest honour on this distinguished son of the School.

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