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Eagle News New Series Volume 6 Number 5 (Issue 112)
January 2016 The Magazine of the Old Bedford Modernians’ Club
OBM Club Secretary retires Inside:
Science Centre 140
Events Gallery 142
Focus on Careers 151
Memory Stir 156
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The Magazine of the Old Bedford Modernians’ Club Founded 1892
New Series Volume 6 Number 5 (Issue 112) January 2016 Bedford Modern School Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7NT Telephone: 01234 332663 Email: externalrelations@bedmod.co.uk School telephone: 01234 332500 School fax: 01234 332550 Website: www.bedmod.co.uk President: Richard Groom (1953 – 60) Chairman: The Headmaster, Michael Hall
Past and present OBM Club Presidents pay tribute to retiring OBM Club Secretary and School Archivist, Richard Wildman. (Back, left to right) Vaughan Southgate (1954-62), Paul Middleton (1950-61), Jim Woodger (1954-65), Richard Groom (1953-60) (Front, left to right) Chris Perry (1949-55), Ben Shorten (1936-44), Richard Wildman (1956-65), Col Robbie Robinson (1936-42).
Facebook: /BedfordModernSchool /Bedmod Twitter: @bedfordmodern @OBM_Club LinkedIn: BedfordModernSchoolAlumniLinkedin Bedford Modern School is part of the Harpur Trust: a company limited by guarantee Registered in England: Company Number: 3475202 Registered Office: Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford, MK41 7PZ Registered Charity Number: 1066861 The views of contributors are their own and not necessarily those of Bedford Modern School
Design by: The Answer Machine www.theAnswerMachine.co.uk Printed by: Merrys Limited www.merryprinters.co.uk
Contents 139
The London Lunch
152
Sports Roundup
140
Science Centre
155
Club Sporting Contacts
141
Letter from the Head
156
Memory Stir
142
OBM Events Gallery
162
Obituaries
144
OBM Christmas Lunch
166
Directory of OBM Services
146
School and OBM News
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The London Lunch
The London Lunch will be held at Merchant Taylors’ Hall 30 Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 8JB on Friday 04 March 2016 at 12noon for 1.00pm Cost: £75 (which includes gratuities and wine with the meal) Write to External Relations, with the following information: 1. Name(s) and years at School 2. Cheque (made payable to 'OBM Club') 3. Daytime phone number, and e-mail address (if any) Note: Discounted rail tickets (Tubes extra) may be bought in advance from the Tourist Information Centre in Bedford. Alternatively send a cheque with the form on the reverse of the address sheet accompanying this magazine. To pay by bank transfer or by card, please contact External Relations on 01234 332500. Please Note: Eligibility: OBMs and current and former staff (no non-OBM guests). Reservations to be made no later than 26 February and must be accompanied by payment. Cancellations cannot be accepted after Friday 26 February. Dress: Lounge suits and Club ties. Ladies (OBMs and staff) please dress accordingly. Diet: Let us know if you have a particular dietary requirement. Seating: Tables usually seat eight. If you wish to reserve a full table please forward the names of your guests when booking.
Date for your Diary................................................................................................. The President, Richard Groom MBE (1953-61) invites you to
126th Founder's Commemoration Dinner This year’s theme: Music at BMS
Friday 17 June 2015 6.30pm for 7.30pm Rutherford Building
Ticket price of £25 includes a four course meal with a complimentary glass of wine. Cash bar. All OBMs are welcome together with spouses/partners as guests. Details on how to reserve your place can be found on the reverse of the address sheet accompanying this magazine.
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Science Centre Construction of our new, purpose-built Science Centre is about to start which is due for occupation in September 2017
Key features: • Separate floors house each discipline: Biology, Chemistry and Physics • A central learning atrium provides a flexible teaching and display area • 17 multi-discipline laboratories are sized to accommodate up to 24 pupils each with ample storage and preparation space located close to them • Opportunities abound to incorporate the very latest in modern technology • The environment is calm, light, airy and conducive to learning • The use of cutting edge design and construction standards make the building itself a stimulus for learning. We will need the support of the BMS community to help us launch this landmark development and will soon be announcing ways in which you can help: whether that be by sponsoring a laboratory or even the building itself! If you would like to discuss this further, in advance of any specific details being published, please contact Julie Ridge, Director of External Relations on jridge@bedmod.co.uk or 01234 332500.
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Letter from the Head Michael Hall
Welcome once again to the latest edition of Eagle News which I hope you will find as interesting and informative as always. Celebrating success In August, despite the top grades being down nationally, we celebrated the School's highest ever percentage of A* grades at A Level achieving 22% up 6% on last year. A very pleasing 96% of students obtained grades A*- C with more than half of all students (52%) achieving A*- A grades and an impressive 46 of the 156 students obtaining three A grades or better. The top performing female students both secured three A* grades and a place at the prestigious Durham University to study Natural Sciences. Our highest performing male student obtained the highest grades in the School with an A* in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry and an A grade in German. He is currently working at Schroders in asset management for a year before going on to university. Ten students secured highly competitive university medical places and one student went on to study Veterinary Medicine at Bristol University after obtaining A* grades in Biology, Chemistry and Maths. In addition five students secured places at Oxford and Cambridge. A very impressive 75% of students who took Drama and Theatre Studies achieved an A* grade. I could not have been more delighted with this incredible set of results which surpassed all my expectations. To achieve 83% of grades at A*- B is outstanding but 22% of grades at A* is quite exceptional.
Similarly our students received excellent GCSE results across a broad range of subjects. 98% of GCSE grades awarded were between A*- C compared to a national average of 69% with 29% of grades at A* and 63% at A*- A. Almost a quarter of the 155 students achieved A* or A grades across the ten or 11 exams they sat. What I find particularly inspiring is that these young people attain very high grades as well as participating fully in sport, drama, music and other co-curricular activities. I was delighted to welcome so many of them back in September to start the next leg of their educational journey in our Sixth Form. Farewell to a long-serving member of staff As many of you will know, Richard Wildman (1956-65) retired at the end of the winter term from his role as School Archivist and OBM Club Secretary. Richard has worked at BMS since 1997 assisting the previous archivist, Andrew Underwood, for two years before taking over the position himself in 1999. We held the recent annual OBM Club Christmas Lunch in his honour as a fitting tribute to him and in recognition of the significant contribution he has made to both the School and the OBM Club. Do take a look at page 144 for some photographs of the occasion. Personally I would like to thank him for being the dedicated guardian of BMS history for the past 18 years and will always be indebted to him for delivering such an enlightening lecture during the 250th celebrations in 2014 where I learned more about the history of the School - and Bedford more generally - in one hour than any number of hours poring over books would have taught me. I wish him every success for the future.
Bedford Modern School Foundation On a final note, I am pleased to report that we are in the process of setting up a BMS Foundation and have already formed a Board comprising current and former parents, school governors and OBMs; all of whom have given up their time voluntarily to help steer our fundraising efforts and to whom I am very grateful indeed. The aims of the Foundation are twofold: to raise money for bursaries to offer opportunities to students who would benefit from a BMS education but would otherwise be unable to afford the fees; and specific capital campaigns such as the Science Centre for which building will commence shortly. I would be delighted if we were able to enjoy the same opportunity as other Independent Schools who invest in their students and the school estate and facilities aside from using school fees to do so. This is, of course, only possible with the generous support of the wider BMS community. I look forward to another progressive and successful year. With my very best wishes
Michael Hall Headmaster
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OBM Events
OBM Events Gallery (July 2015 - December 2015)
Henley Royal Regatta
20:20 Cricket It was glorious weather on 10 July for the annual 20:20 cricket match. The cream of BMS cricketing talent from the past 20 years was on show with three OBM teams captained by Jay Lockwood (1993-2002), Nish Narayanan (2003-14) and Ivan Chadwick (1987-96) and one BMS team. Congratulations went to Nish and his team, the 'OBM 10s', who won the Chinneck Trophy and to Oliver Richardson (2006-14) who won the Geoff Millman Cup.
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More than 100 OBMs, parents and friends joined us for drinks and canapĂŠs on 01 July which turned out to be one of the hottest days of the summer! Our very grateful thanks go to Mike Rayner (1958-64) who kindly sponsored the refreshments this year; the first time we have had such a generous offer.
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OBM Events
To see more visit the picture gallery in the OBM section of the BMS website
Girls’Sports Festival On 12 December we welcomed back four OBM teams to play four current BMS teams for this third annual Girls' Sports Festival which is now a firm fixture in the OBM events calendar. The netball winners were the OBM team from 2015, the hockey winners were the BMS Year 13 team who also won the tournament overall.
Bruce Willey Memorial Rugby Match This annual rugby match, which took place at the same time as the Girls' Sports Festival on 12 December, saw the OBM XV, a formidable team made up of last year's leavers, beat the BMS 1st XV with a final score of 5-0.
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OBM Christmas Lunch In honour of retiring OBM Club Secretary and School Archivist, Richard Wildman (1956-65)
The 2015 OBM Christmas Lunch was held in honour of retiring member of staff Richard Wildman (1956-65). We welcomed 130 OBMs, their guests and former and current staff to the annual OBM Club Christmas Lunch on 12 December to say farewell and thank you to Richard Wildman who retired at the end of the Winter Term after 18 years of dedicated service to the School as OBM Club Secretary and School Archivist.
He has contributed to many other publications of all kinds, including the history of Bedford Rugby Club - not that he would ever have wanted to sit through a game, we understand, unlike his father Sidney (1932-39) and brother Stephen (1960-69)!
Richard's years as an undergraduate at Clare College, Cambridge, and subsequent teacher training, were his only ones spent away from Bedford. He is a recognised authority on Bedford history and his books include Bedford: A Pictorial History (1991); Bedford in Old Photographs (1995, revised 2009) and Bedford Then and Now (2011, with Alan Crawley OBM).
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As a student, in 1967, he took the leading role in campaigning for the retention of the façade of the old school, designed by Edward Blore, when its redevelopment began to be discussed. You can read all about this in his piece in The BMS We Knew: A Book of Memories (2006), which he compiled with the help of OBMs Peter Boon (1951-61) and Paul Middleton (1950-61). The event was a perfect way to thank Richard for the significant contribution he has made to BMS and we wish him every success for the future.
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A Madagascan Adventure for Ella Stanley OBM Ella Stanley (2012-14), who was awarded the first Hill Family Scholarship in 2014, has returned from a two month trip to the Republic of Madagascar, an island country in the Indian Ocean. Set-up by OBM Adam Hill (1993-1998), the Scholarship is awarded to students in Year 12 or 13 to fund outreach work in a developing country over the summer break. Ella chose to visit the Madagascan region of Velondriake, focusing on a small coastal town called Andavadoaka. Working with the charity 'Blue Ventures' under the 'Safidy' (freedom to choose) banner, Ella helped to provide family planning clinics, medicinal education and train the local people in basic medical care and hygiene. Ella also learnt to do pre and post-natal check-ups, take blood pressure and even administer injections.
As well as working within the town the Safidy team went on missions lasting between one and five days where they would undertake clinic work in neighbouring villages. They would also train the Community-based Distributors (CBDs); local women who could then prescribe contraceptives, teaching them the importance of hygiene, information about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and health and nutrition. When the team weren't working they were able to explore the island in all its beauty; visiting the famous Baobab trees, showing the local children how to use a camera and enjoying yoga on the beautiful coastline. Ella, aged 18, enthused: “Working in the Italian Hospital was my favourite part of the trip. Seeing so many different nations volunteering and working together to solve problems was amazing. I was lucky to meet some incredible
people who are going to be life-long friends. Overall it was a really humbling experience and very worthwhile. I learnt so much about myself and have returned a stronger person. I'll always look back on the trip with the fondest eyes and the happiest memories.” David Jenkins, Biology Teacher and Higher Education Advisor, added: “It was amazing to hear Ella's story. As an 18 year old just out of school she was giving injections and delivering babies. These are things which in the UK cannot be done by young medical students as they are too advanced. I think this illustrates just how poor Madagascar is. I am delighted that Ella was able to make a contribution using money from the Hill Family Scholarship.” Ella is now studying Global Health and Social Medicine at King’s College, London.
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School and OBM News
News
Career change success for OBM Adam Lannon
OBM Adam Lannon, who left Bedford Modern School in 1994, decided 11 years ago to have a complete career change. After working for many years in London as the Head of Business Development for a communications company, Adam decided to revisit what he was passionate about and really loved: acting. Adam began his journey of retraining aged 25, starting with taking evening classes at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, London, to define his skills and gain confidence. He decided that it was the East 15 Acting School at the University of Essex that he wanted to attend and after a gruelling one day audition process, Adam was accepted on to a postgraduate diploma course to study acting for television, film and radio. Adam explained: “As an actor your career is not in your hands, so it was a challenge to completely change career path. My time at BMS gave me the confidence and the courage to do what I believed was
Let them eat cake! On Sunday 10 October, the Bedford branch of the Alzheimer's Society held its annual Memory Walk at Priory Country Park to raise awareness of dementia and generate much needed funds to continue research into the condition. BMS staff and students were part of the organising committee for the event and provided a considerable presence on the day including running the cake stall. Hundreds of cakes, which were generously donated by families and friends of BMS, were sold to the 1,000 walkers who turned out to join in the fun. The cake sale alone raised a tremendous £791.49. Year 13 student Temitope Fisayo, known as Tope, has shown particular support for the work of the Tibbs Foundation and the Alzheimer's Society during the past few months. On alternate Friday afternoons,
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Tope walks with people with dementia and he gives up additional private study time to play 'walking football' with others with the condition. He also volunteers in a local care home as part of his outreach work at BMS and on 16 October took part in a successful sailing group session with the Tibbs Foundation, Challengers4Memory and Dementia Walkers at Priory Marina. Tope, who is hoping to study medicine when he leaves BMS, explains more: "The Memory Walk was another tally in the count for times I've looked ridiculous for a good cause! Armed with a fetching fluorescent green wig and a social media picture frame, I was able to encourage good spirits amongst the walkers. Besides looking silly I took pictures for others and raised some money with a bucket for donations. The day was a great success with smiles all round, and everyone receiving medals at the finish line.” Tope's efforts were formally recognised at the Bedford Sports awards on 07 December where he won the Young Sports Volunteer of the Year award.
right for me - and it was. I'm now sustaining and managing a career in what can be a harsh environment.
“What stands out most for me about my years at BMS is how much I enjoyed improvisation in GCSE drama - something I use now in immersive theatre shows.” Adam is fortunate enough to have been working as an actor and director for the past 11 years, even gracing our screens with a part in Downton Abbey. Adam's latest lead role was in the Swiss film Tetro Rouge and in the immersive theatre show Time Run at London's Helmsley Place in August.
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School and OBM News
The Manton Charitable Trust Gap Year Award The Manton Charitable Trust has donated funds to set up a new award to fund or part-fund individual students who commit to a minimum four week challenge to support the disadvantaged, preferably in another country, during a gap year between school and university. The inaugural award this year was made to Ellie Tytler who will be volunteering in Costa Rica at a Sea Turtle Sanctuary and The Jaguar Rescue Centre. She will then travel to Peru to work in The Children's Shelter, Arequipa. Ellie has been working hard to fund this trip and has been saving all money earned from part-time jobs whilst studying for her A Levels. She will continue working through until March 2016 to build on her travel funds after which she will be away for about four months working on her project. The Manton Trustees are delighted to make this award to Ellie and look forward to her full report in the late summer 2016.
OBM Lodge Award
Every year, 'The Old Bedford Modernians' Lodge Award for Personal Achievement' is awarded to a deserving student from Year 13. Previous winners have been Caroline Hall and Sarah Long for their participation and commitment to the School's Outreach projects including the Friday Drop In and the Utange Orphanage and Feeding Programme in Kenya, and last year, Damian Coveney for his outstanding and impressive leadership, commitment and fund raising efforts with the School's Amnesty International group. This year, Tom Robinson was nominated for being an outstanding ambassador for the School and an exceptional role model for so many younger students. Not only has he dedicated time and energy to being a Senior Monitor in the Junior School, his commitment to the Performance Arts, combined with his willingness to give generously of his time to school events was exceptional. Mr Richard Griffin, Charity Steward of the OBM Lodge presented Tom with the award to support him when he begins his university career studying Musical Theatre at the prestigious Guildford School of Acting (GSA) from September. GSA is one of the most highly regarded theatre schools in the UK and arguably the foremost musical theatre school in the world.
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Lower school pupils experiment with science! Eight pupils from three Bedford lower schools had fun learning about science by using advanced scientific equipment for the first time and conducting experiments as part of a Science Academy run by Bedford Modern School teachers. The children were joined by their parents at a celebration event on Saturday 20 June to showcase what they had learnt. The pupils from Pinchmill Lower School, Goldington Green Academy and Springfield
Sixth Form mock trial On 03 November, 12 Bedford Modern School Sixth Form students participated in a mock trial at Bedford Magistrates' Court with students from three local sixth forms.
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Lower School were nominated by their teachers to attend the Science Academy which was held on Saturday mornings. The sessions were designed to stretch and challenge those who are particularly interested in science. Daniel Honnor, Head of Physics and the Science Outreach Co-ordinator explained: “Earlier in the year I took some Sixth Form students to three lower schools where we delivered practical activities to pupils in
The students from BMS were split into teams of four with one team serving as the prosecution, one as the defence team and one as the bench. Each team was assigned one of three different trials and was given only an hour and a half to prepare the cases with the expert help of experienced criminal justice practitioners.
Years 3 and 4 to introduce them to aspects of science that they would not ordinarily encounter as part of the curriculum. “This is the first time we have run such a programme but I have been delighted with the results. I was so impressed by the sheer enthusiasm of all eight of the children who took part. They asked lots of questions, got really involved and I really hope they continue to have an interest in science as they grow.”
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School and OBM News
Armistice Day It was a particularly moving occasion for staff and students on 11 November as we were joined by five veterans for our annual Remembrance Day Service. The five gentlemen, whose average age was 80, all served in the Army apart from one who was an RAF Squadron Leader and some as long ago as WWII. They all now reside in a local care home in Bedford. Each veteran was looked after by two current Combined Cadet Force (CCF) cadets who had the opportunity to ask them about their lives and in particular their experiences in active service.
and why it is so important that we commemorate Remembrance Day. John, who was a Drill Sergeant, instructed us to perform a drill which I really enjoyed! It's great that we could experience that with him.” Alex Smith, the CCF School Staff Instructor added: “It was an honour to have the veterans join us for our Remembrance Day Service. It made it all the more poignant to see our young CCF cadets hosting these servicemen and linking generations. The sacrifices made by men such as these changed the world and we are forever in their debt.”
For 99 year-old Herbert Pike - known as Fred - it was a particularly special occasion as he was presented with his Branch Life VicePresident Certificate by Col Tony Winton (Retd) of the Royal Anglian Regiment Association after the service. Fred was a Signals Sergeant in the 1st Battalion Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire regiment from 1933 to 1945 and served all over the world seeing active service in Greece, Egypt and India. Year 9 student Jake Young explained: “Meeting these gentlemen makes it easier for us to appreciate what they did for us in the war
BMS student off to the Big Apple! Alex Brand, currently in Year 11, won a trip to New York City (NYC) as a runner up in the SINCE 9/11 National Schools Competition following his submission of a short film answering the question: How did 9/11 change the world? SINCE 9/11 is an educational charity set up to ensure that the legacy of 9/11 is one that builds hope from tragedy. Their mission is to develop, out of the horror of the events, an educational programme for schools, devoted to a proper understanding of what happened. The competition asked for students to submit a short essay or film which is then judged against; originality and inventiveness, clarity and communication, knowledge and understanding, aspiration and inspiration. Alex, then aged 14, found out about the competition through his English teacher, Steven Bywater. The class were learning more about the significance and consequences of 9/11 and the topic sparked Alex's interest.
Alex said: “It is really exciting to have been a runner up in this competition. I really enjoyed making the film and the story of 9/11 interests me a lot, especially the long term effects of the event. Even people who were only very young when it happened, like me, want to know more about it.” Alex visited NYC from 9-13 September staying on the infamous Wall Street. He had the opportunity to visit the memorial and meet both the Mayor and survivors of the attack to hear first-hand about how it affected them. Steven Bywater, Head of English, commented: “Alex responded positively to the task set in English. Rather than produce another essay, he decided to create a video. What he has produced is obviously a worthy winner and I wouldn't be surprised if he now opts for Film Studies in Year 12 he certainly has it in him to become the next Hitchcock!”
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BMS students perform in Peace Child 2015 In August this year, Year 11 students, Bertie Ensor-Clinch and Henry Bridge were invited to take part in the 2015 Peace Child musical; a production that gives voice to the global concerns of young people and performed at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, California. The production, directed by Stacey McEnnan, started in 1982 as a children's
response to nuclear war. Peace Child is built on the idea that young people from very different backgrounds can come together to find common ground between ideology, culture and language. While the play has a format, the cast add their own 'hot topics' and help to write the dialogue alongside a professional writer. This cast's topics included gun crime, school shootings, racism and slavery.
Act!’15 gothic horror
An air of mystery, suspense and a touch of the unknown crept into Bedford Modern School on Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 November as budding actors from five local schools joined some of our own Year 7 and 8 students to perform six pieces of gothic horror theatre in ACT!’15. ACT!’15 is a free drama festival hosted by BMS where teachers and students from Bedfordshire's schools are invited to collaborate on the creation of a piece of theatre. This year we welcomed students from Harrold Priory Middle School, Lincroft School, Goldington Academy, Bedford Academy and Stratton Upper School. Laura Coltman, Director of Performance Arts explained more about the event and how the young performers
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prepared for it: “In September all six schools took part in an instructional workshop on physical theatre techniques and gothic horror led by renowned director and actor Anthony Barclay who was inspirational; sharing both his energy and expertise with the students. “Each school was then given a short gothic horror story to take away and adapt for presentation on stage. The original stories were written by a range of authors from Charles Dickens to Edgar Allen Poe. The resulting six performances were devised and scripted entirely by the cast members and their teachers. “Every single performer did a fantastic job and I do hope that they learnt a lot from both the experience but also from Anthony.”
Anthony Barclay, who returned as guest adjudicator, is an experienced actor and among many other credits is currently a member of the Steven Berkoff ensemble and was the associate movement director on Oedipus as well as lead actor in Oedipus, Biblical Tales and Religion and Anarchy.
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Focus on Careers Annual Careers Day
Developing Careers
We welcomed students from a number of schools to join us on Thursday 02 July for our annual Careers Day which is aimed at Year 12 students. The Sixth Formers were able to choose from a wide variety of workshops throughout the day given by leaders in industry and commerce;many of whom are OBMs.
We have already had some success with matching current students and OBMs who are seeking advice or embarking on their careers or a career change with OBMs who have the relevant skills, experience and expertise to help and we are keen to develop such a service further.
The sessions were popular, lively and provided students with a chance to ask questions. There were many options for the students to consider; from Satvir Bhamra who left BMS in 2008 and now works for Universal Music in marketing, to Angus Boa who is a detective in the Police Force and Tom Jackson who owns a chilli plant farm. We were also joined by doctors, lawyers, engineers and brokers. OBM Don Boom (1985-94), People Director at Virgin, opened the event and talked about how his time at BMS influenced his career choices and how he navigated his career journey to land his dream job. He said: “21 years ago, I left BMS to go to Warwick University, not really knowing what I wanted to do with my life. Now 21 years later, I'm in my dream job - working for Virgin as a human resources director. “There is no doubt that a lot of the success I have had in my career has been down to my time at BMS. Participating in drama events taught me about public speaking; playing sport taught me about personal resilience, teamwork and leadership and the academic side taught me all about critical analysis and communication. I owe a lot to the support and encouragement the staff gave me during my nine years at the School.”
Tom Potten-Hoskin (2004-13) has set up his own male clothing company whilst studying Business Marketing and Management at Nottingham Trent University. He recently contacted us seeking advice and we sent an email to those OBMs who had already offered to give assistance or mentoring support. He said: “The OBM alumni network has been a great help to me and my start up due to the network being rich with both successful businessmen and women willing to offer and share their valuable insights and knowledge of their particular business expertise . I would like to give Toby Steele (1983-94) and Joe Pattinson (1985-86) a special mention for their generous help and support.”
Matthew Wong (2001-10), currently the Compliance and Security Coordinator for Clarion Events, a global events company, has also benefited from the advice of OBMs: “I left Bedford Modern in 2010, and with medical grounds ruling me out of the RAF, I went on to study Politics and International Relations at the University of Hull. During my time at University I decided that pursuing a career with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the Ministry of Defence was what I wanted to do. With this in mind, I contacted the External Relations team for help perhaps there was an OBM who might be able to offer guidance or advice?
“The response I received was fantastic. Over a dozen OBMs reached out to help, ranging from organising workplace visits, mock interviews and CV advice, to providing me with industry contacts, investment advice and work experience. All were willing to help me try and better prepare myself for work post-graduation, and counsel me through my applications. It's a vast pool of experience to learn from, and I would encourage those students currently at BMS, or those recent leavers who are seeking advice and guidance, to reach out and use the knowledge that is there - the support provided to me helped form the groundwork for the role I do today. I'd also like to extend my thanks once again to all those who responded to my queries, or the introductions from OBMs who themselves could not directly help but put me in touch with those who could.”
If you would be interested in adding your name to a growing bank of OBMs who are already offering their support, please email your contact details to externalrelations@bedmod.co.uk giving your current job title and your areas of expertise.
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Sports Roundup
Sport Skiing On Sunday 20 September, six Bedford Modern School students competed in the first round of the English Schools Ski Association (ESSKIA) races in Gloucester. The students performed exceptionally well with both teams coming top of their age category and qualifying for the National Finals to be held in Norfolk on 10-11 October. The teams, comprising of: James Willis (Year 9), Alexander Smith (Year 7), Ed Forrester (Year 9), Rob Vanbeck (Year 13), Dan Barton (Year 12) and Dom Barton (Year 9) secured places in the top 15 with three of the students finishing in the top five. Four of the boys qualified to compete in the National Open Final. Mr Slater, Head of ski club for BMS, said: “I am really proud of all of the boys who took part in this event. Their dedication, drive and commitment to their sport is a real credit to them and our School.”
Year 12 student Daniel Barton has been selected for the British Ski and Snowboard Development Group (BSS) for the 2015/16 season. In addition, he has been chosen by the English governing body Snowsport England to become a national ambassador for the sport.
Daniel, aged 17, has been ski training since he was nine with Bedford Modern School and Gravity Snowsport, and now trains with Team Evolution who are an academy based in Austria. From October 2015 to April 2016 he will compete in International Ski Federation races; slalom, giant slalom and super-G disciplines throughout Europe.
As an ambassador for Snowsport in England, Daniel will be tasked with spreading the word about the sport, fitness and skills to the next generation of skiers. Daniel said: ”Selection to the BSS Development Programme is brilliant news and a real privilege. The process is tough and the training and racing is very demanding, however it is a fantastic feeling when you are racing in a major international race. All sports are tough and I know I have a long way to go.” Tim Fawke, Chief Executive of Snowsport England added: ”When our athletes are selected to the BSS programme it is excellent news, as we watch them progress on the pathway to the top of the sport. Daniel has worked hard to reach this stage and we are delighted to invite him to be an ambassador to encourage other young people to experience Snowsport here in England.”
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Water Polo Abigail Turner, Year 11, has been selected for the U17 GB Girl's Water Polo Talent squad following a fantastic performance at the England Talent Weekend in Cardiff in August. The GB Talent squad offers junior players the opportunity to start at club level then move up into regional training centres. Team members may then be put forward to the England Academy and enter trials for GB Talent which can lead to representing Great Britain at a national and international level. Abigail has represented BMS at both U16 and U18 girls and U16 mixed Water Polo this year. She has been included in the winning teams of the English school's U16 mixed, came fourth in the U16 girls and fifth in the U18 girls. Ashley Bygraves, PE Teacher, commented: “Abigail is a driven athlete constantly looking to improve on her skills. She is disciplined with her training schedule; training at least five times a week at Water Polo and attending extra sessions to improve her swimming technique and endurance. Every time Abigail gets in the pool her focus and drive creates a new heightened level of expectation on her abilities.
Abigail's emotional maturity was incredible at the trials as her weekend consisted of nine hours of pool training and a further five hours of land training.� Abigail won the 'Girls Performance in a BMS Shirt' award at the BMS Sports Awards in the Summer Term and will continue to compete for the School regularly during 2016.
Netball On Thursday 15 October two members of the England netball squad, Eboni BeckfordChambers and Sasha Corbin, visited BMS to provide a netball masterclass to more than 100 girls from Years 7 to 10. Both players are part of the England line-up but also play for their own clubs. Defender Eboni Beckford-Chambers has returned to Team Bath for the 2016 Vitality Netball Superleague season whilst mid-court player Sasha Corbin has just signed for Loughborough Lightning.
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Sport Hockey The U16 girls' hockey team claimed victory at the Bedfordshire County Indoor Hockey Tournament held at Cedars Upper School on 11 November for the second year running. Eight members of the BMS squad this year are in Year 10 and for them this was their first taste of competitive indoor games. Guy Marsh, BMS Hockey Coach said: "This is a terrific achievement for the girls, given the significant differences tactically and technically from outdoor hockey."
GB hockey player Crista Cullen came to BMS on Friday 20 November to give a hockey masterclass to the Year 10 and 11 girls who are participating in a sports tour to South Africa in the summer. Crista, who will be representing Great Britain at the Olympic Games in Rio next year, put the girls through their paces helping them to move the ball with increased pace and accuracy; playing small conditioned games and giving tips on defending and shooting positions within the 'D'. It proved to be a lot of fun even during the warm up sessions as the Olympic medal winner pushed the girls hard and encouraged them to achieve their best. With 171 international caps under her belt as well as being the joint top scorer at London 2012 the young BMS players could not have hoped for a more inspirational coach. Year 10 student Alice Palutikof was eager to learn all she could from Crista and said: “We are really lucky to be given this opportunity and I am looking forward to seeing just how fast she can hit the ball and, hopefully, how she performs reverse stick hits.” Sarah Baxter, also in Year 10, added: “I'm hoping to learn some new skills in readiness for our trip to South Africa and competing against students in schools while we're there.” Throughout the two-week tour in August 2016 the girls will travel through South Africa playing 6 - 8 matches as well as learning more about the culture and history of the country including a visit to the Goedgedacht Trust; a project which provides a lifeline for children living in rural communities caught between the pressure to work in the fields or attend schools to further their education.
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Athletics Year 12 student and high jumper Octavia Cavill won bronze at the Sainsbury's 2015 School Games held at Manchester's Regional Athletics Centre in September following her triumph at the English Schools' Championships in July. The ambitious 16-year-old said: "There are definitely positions to fill in women's high jump
Karate Tosan Awani, Year 8, is the European Champion 2015 with Team Kumite for the Japan Karate Association England Squad after a successful weekend at the European Championships in Bochum, Germany, on the 23 and 24 May. Having competed in last year's European Championships in Prague, where he reached the semi-finals as an individual, Tosan was keen to compete again in the 2015 competition and trained all year to secure a medal. 30 countries took part with Tosan able to compete in both individual and team fights for Team Kata and Team Kumite. The England coach originally scouted Tosan at only eight years old but due to age restriction rules he was unable to join the squad, but in 2012, after completing a series of trials, he joined the England squad aged ten. Over the years Tosan has competed in various local, county and national competitions and has won an array of medals. He also takes part in the bi-annual international training sessions that take place in Gatwick Crawley. His next challenge will be to represent England in the JKA Karate World Championships due to take place in Dubai in 2017.
and if I keep working then hopefully in the future there may be a position for me in the GB team." The Sainsbury's School Games is the UK's largest multi-sport event for elite level, school-age athletes and is supported by National Lottery funding from Sport England and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust.
Upcoming OBM Club sports events OBM Waterpolo 12 March 2016 OBM Football 18 March 2016 OBM Mens Hockey 18 March 2016 OBM Rowing Race Day and Dinner 30 April 2016 OBM Cricket 8 July 2016
Club Sporting Contacts Cricket
Kevin Appleton Kevin.appleton@hotmail.com
Fives Chris Ryan chris@standrewscarehome.co.uk 01234 352890
Football
Jack Leadbetter jack.leadbetter@btinternet.com
Golf Richard Ebbs 63 Days Lane, Biddenham, Bedford 01234 344100
Hockey Mike Carter 5 Clarendon Street, Bedford 01234 215441
Rowing Michael Biggs MikeBiggs@aol.com
Water Polo
Mark Bullerwell 1999bars@gmail.com
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Memory Stir the advantage of having fairly short names, each beginning with a different letter: Bell, Farrar, Mobbs, Oatley, Rose and Tilden.
Edgar Mobbs 1892-98
Edgar Mobbs, one of Bedford Modern School's most prominent former students and a BMS House namesake has been inducted in to the World Rugby Hall of Fame alongside two other former England greats. The House System at BMS was first conceived in 1882 as a focal point for internal competition, mainly for sporting events. In 1997 a decision was made for the House system to play a more central role in the School. The Houses were named in honour of six of our most prominent OBMs who had gained national or international recognition in their field. All deceased, they also have
Edgar Mobbs was one of three English World Rugby Hall of Fame inductees along with Wavell Wakefield and Ronald Poulton-Palmer. Like Poulton-Palmer, Mobbs was one of 27 England internationals to die in the Great War.
1979-1985 has generously paid for the wooden information plaques which sit beneath the portraits of Mobbs and Wheeler in main reception to be restored to their former glory so that the wording summarising these two great OBMs is once again clear and easy to read.
World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “The World Rugby Hall of Fame recognises those who have made an indelible mark on our sport through feats on the field of play, displays of great character or through their tireless and
David, who has three children at BMS, noticed when he visited the school a while ago that the words could no longer be read and hoped that by restoring them the words might continue to inform and inspire the next and future generations.
The inscriptions read: LT. COLONEL E. R. MOBBS D.S.O 7TH BATTALION NORTHAMPTONSHIRE REGIMENT AT THIS SCHOOL FROM 1892-1898
A RUGBY INTERNATIONAL, HE RAISED A COMPANY OF FOOTBALLERS AND SPORTSMEN, SERVED IN ITS RANKS, AND ULTIMATELY COMMANDED THE BATTALION, KILLED IN ACTION AT PASSCHENDAELE IN 1917. PRESENTED BY THE OLD MODERNIANS' CLUB.
MAJOR G.G.M. WHEELER V.C. 1ST BATTALION WILTSHIRE REGIMENT & 7TH HARIANA LANCERS INDIAN ARMY AT THIS SCHOOL FROM 1886 -1891
KILLED IN ACTION AT "NORTH MOUND" MESOPOTAMIA ON 13TH APR. 1915. AWARDED THE VICTORIA CROSS ON 1ST SEPT. 1915 FOR CONSPICUOUS BRAVERY AT SHAIBA MESOPOTAMIA ON 12TH & 13TH APR. 1915. PRESENTED BY G.N. ACKLOM ESQ, OBM OF NEW YORK.
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“The latest set of inductions includes some real legends; players who have helped to shape the image of rugby and inspire generations of fans.”
Former Northampton and England wing, Mobbs died leading an attack charge on a machine gun post in the Battle of Passchendaele in July 1917. Northampton still play a commemorative match in his honour against the Army every year.
As a schoolboy David was inspired by the wording as he passed the portraits on his way to lunch or assembly; the dining room back then was situated where DR1 and the drama store is located now.
David Cox
inspirational work in driving forward our great game.
A Cambridge graduate, David is currently employed at Unilever in Research and Development and after 13 years of travel is now based back in Bedford. We are most grateful to David for his kind and generous donation.
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John H L Davis 1941-48 writes: 'the cartoon type sketch of Taj Leadley in the January 2015 edition of Eagle News was drawn by Mr Sammy Volz the Art Master. This reminded me strongly of the happy times spent at the Leadley household in Shakespeare Road, Bedford.
obtained a pass mark for Latin. He had already obtained his Blue and was elected Captain of Boats. Unfortunately, he did not achieve his Latin pass mark and so he joined forces with Chris Daidge to win races at Henley Regatta. Thus the college career ended without ever being a resident at the University. My other vivid memory was connected to the unofficial election of Mr John T Dobinson as Master in Charge of Fives. In those days we had a meeting known as the Games Council. The following occurred when I raised the position of the playing of Fives. The courts were being used to house deck chairs, duck boards and coke. Mr Belcher I think was chairman of the meeting and he approached Fiddy the groundsman with a view to playing Fives. This was quickly agreed and inside 48 hours the courts had been cleared and prepared for play.
At all times the Leadleys were acknowledged as being the most hospitable people you could ever wish to meet. Their parties were legendary and generally arranged on the spur of the moment. Taj had two brothers and two sisters. The brothers, like Taj, were somewhat larger than life and were responsible for the social activities of the Lions Club. The cricket games were keenly contested and sometimes enlivened by the inclusion of Gordon Brice who was at the time playing professionally for Northamptonshire. When he played we usually won and lost when he didn't. The atmosphere generated an air of enthusiasm and usually concluded by descending on the Leadleys without warning. Imagine my delight on finishing National Service to return to find the Leadleys in charge and moreover on warm Sunday afternoons it was customary to find a selection of beautiful young ladies from the Physical Training College joining in the scene. Apparently Taj encouraged this as a regular Sunday routine. Now Taj had a secured a place at Cambridge University provided he
Without any authority I decided to act as Secretary whilst the obvious choice for Captain was R F Graves (1944-48) with Mr Dobinson's support. So without further ado I posted off a selection of invitations to schools within a radius of 100 miles. The replies were a curious mixture of surprise, one or two quite indignant because they did not play Fives having no courts. However, most were polite and in fact Radley and Felsted were pleased to accept our invitation. In addition Caius College preferred to play in Cambridge with Mr Dobinson to guide us. My abiding memory of this fixture was the generosity of Mr Dobinson who on Cambridge railway station bought the four of us a pint of beer each. Thus Fives came to be an integral part of the school's sporting games. House matches were arranged and in addition the Rugby Fives Association were keen to play in our courts. Also the Oxford and Cambridge match was played in our courts and this I understand became an annual event.
Thus from a rather shaky start the game is now popular and Mr John T Dobinson would be a proud man to witness how the role he played has produced so much enjoyment for so many boys. After Graves and I left in 1948, the game continued to flourish under the guidance of David Hebblethwaite (1942-52) who expanded the fixture list and worked closely with the Rugby Fives Association. Also we entered the Public Schools Individual championship but without success. In fact in 1948 it was won by Anthony Dawes who represented Bedford School and he practised in our courts and was often beaten. He remarked how good our courts were and said it would have not been possible to win the Championship without practising at BMS. So Fives started to become a flourishing sport and some of the finest players in the world have performed at the courts of BMS and long may it continue.'
Edward Wallett 2002-11
Congratulations to Edward Wallett who was awarded the Taverne Trust Engineering Prize in recognition of his mature attitude to his studies, by the University of Lincoln's School of Engineering in a special ceremony on Friday 11 September 2015. Edward was selected for the award by his lecturers because of his engineering aptitude and dedication to his education. He began studying on an Architecture programme at Lincoln, but later decided to focus his mathematical abilities on an Engineering degree. The Taverne Trust Engineering Prize, which is specific to the Lincoln School of Engineering, was created to recognise, support and encourage the engineering talent of the future. Launched in 2012, the annual prize is awarded to an exceptional student entering the third year of the BEng (Hons) or MEng Mechanical Engineering degree at Lincoln.
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Memory Stir Dr Ashley Sharp
Alex Dunn (née Barnard)
1988-95
2003-05
writes: 'I thought I'd get in touch with a memory stir from a recent encounter I had with a fellow OBM on the Transcontinental Bike Race this past summer. The race was an unsupported, continuous event from Geraardsbergen in Belgium to Istanbul via the summit of Mont Ventoux (France), the Strada dell'Assietta near Sestriere, Italy, Vukuvor in Eastern Croatia and finally Mount Lovcen in Montenegro (see http://reportage.transcontinental.cc/).
played as part of the 2005 team at the Girls’ Sports Festival on 12 December 2015 and was supported by her husband Rory Dunn (199405) and 15 month-old son Teddy.
After racing for 13 days over 4400km and coming in 10th position (after a rather dramatic last day of racing which involved two collisions with cars, a dog bite, a puncture and a night in hospital), I spent some time with the winner of the TCR, Josh Ibbett (1995-2006) who happened to be staying in the same hotel. Subsequently we discovered our common OBM heritage, although he is somewhat younger than me! Josh is a fantastic athlete, having come 2nd in the previous TCR. In training for the Race David Billingham, Neil Harris and Jim Evans (all OBMs) spent a great cycling weekend away in the Lake District and continued to provide much needed support and encouragement during the Race itself. I was raising money for the West Yorkshire MS Therapy Centre.'
Lee Suter 1978-86 writes: 'I had been working at a British International School in Saudi Arabia where, through a combination of managing the recreation facilities for the Saudi Aramco Oil Company, lecturing in PE at a Saudi University and teaching in the school, I spent a total of some 17 years. I met my wife Eileen there and we married in 2000. In 2005, my son Eoghan was born. At the end of the school year in June 2015 we decided we had had enough of the sun - how we may yet rue that decision! - and I am now working at Bridgewater School in Worsley in their Prep Department. It is interesting to see that Eagle News has gone electronic - when I was in Shakespeare House, Andrew (Mr Andrew Underwood, Mr Wildman's predecessor) used to pay 1p per envelope that we stuffed with a newsletter to send out, a fantastic opportunity to earn some cash to spend on pink splits in the school tuckshop!'
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Alex and Rory started dating while they were in Year 12 (2004) and have been together ever since. They went travelling round South East Asia after finishing A Levels and then decided not to take their places at university but started working instead. Rory is now the Sales Director of a successful finance company (Portman Asset Finance). Alex spent some time working for Volkswagen and Audi and before having Teddy was the Customer Service Manager for a helicopter company based near Northampton (Sloane Helicopters) to which she has recently gone back on a part-time basis. Alex and Rory got married in June 2012 and Teddy was born on 21 September 2014. We think Teddy is probably the first baby born to an OBM couple!
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Alex Chinneck 1992-2003 unveiled A bullet from a shooting star, a London Design Festival Landmark Project and outdoor installation at Greenwich Peninsula on 17 September. The piece takes the unconventional form of an inverted electricity pylon. The 35-metre high structure has been designed to be seen from a distance and can be viewed from North Greenwich Station, the Emirates Airline cable car, the Thames Clipper service, Canary Wharf and all planes that fly to and from City Airport. Illuminated at night, the work acts as a literal beacon and will project a maze of latticed shadows.
A bullet from a shooting star contains a combined length of 1186m of steel weighing 15 tons. There are 450 pieces of steel with more than 1,000 engineered connection points. The foundations include 25m deep piles within 120 tonnes of concrete. Referencing the industrial history of the site which once included the largest oil and gas works in Europe and a steelworks, Alex Chinneck has created a lattice of steel, that resembles an upside down pylon, leaning at a precarious angle as though shot into the earth. The construction and materials reflect the same visual and material language of multiple structures across the Peninsula, particularly the redundant gas tower located on site while also evoking the idea of power generation and supply.
Andrew Johnson 1956-65 A group of mature students, including OBM Andrew Johnson, who attend the Retirement Education Centre, in Rothsay Gardens, Bedford, passed their Latin GCSE with straight A*s in 2015. The five students, who have been out of formal education for some time, sat the Latin exam at BMS and sailed through with top marks. The group were taught by Jenny Morris, Head of Philosophy at BMS (below, left), who said: “These students are a delight to teach and all five worked like Trojans: their success is very well deserved.”
Alex commented: “Greenwich is the centre of world time, and I'm interested in the idea that the sculpture intersects the prime meridian line, acting as a giant sundial. For the London Design Festival I wanted to take on my biggest challenge to date - one that could only be realised through collaborative design and problem solving.” To complement the external installation, NOW Gallery will house Straight jacket star jumps, a 21-metre-long curled up pylon. OBM Andrew Johnson, who attended BMS more than 50 years ago, was surprised to discover that the paper covered the same text as it had done 50 years previously, resuming where he had left it all those years ago. He achieved 100 per cent in his exams. The Retirement Education Centre Manager, Caroline Bacon, said: “This is an amazing achievement by our students and tutor. It proves that it is never too late to learn.” The Centre provides a diverse range of courses, activities and social events aimed at the the over 50s. It can provide bursaries (supported by the Harpur Trust) for Borough residents in receipt of Pension Credit Guarantee. During the summer break all students aged 18 or over are able to study at the Centre and new students are always warmly welcomed.
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Memory Stir Johnny Luk
Josh Harbinson
2003-09
1998-2007
OBM and entrepreneur Johnny Luk once again ran a Student Enterprise Competition for those aged 16 or above during 2015. The winner of The National Association of College and University Entrepreneurs (NACUE) 'Varsity Pitch 2015' is awarded £10,000 and finalists get training with Venture Capital Firms.
A team of four cycling enthusiasts, including three OBMs: Josh Harbinson (1998 - 07), Adam Carter (1998-2004) and Simon Williams (200108), took on the London2Paris Cycling Challenge in September to raise funds for the Luton and Dunstable Hospital neonatal intensive-care unit (NICU) appeal. The threeday route covers a grueling 164 miles from the heart of London, through the English countryside to rural France, finishing under the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Johnny, who founded NACUE, the UK's leading organisation for engaging students in enterprise, works with a rich network of more than 260 institutional members and student enterprise societies. NACUE's 'Varsity Pitch 2015' is a national early stage business pitching competition that celebrates the best businesses coming out of colleges and universities across the UK. It has become one of the UK's flagship enterprise events - celebrating and showcasing the entrepreneurial flair of young businesses for the past five years. Johnny, who attended BMS from 2003 to 2009, said: “The NACUE Varsity Pitch gives students and graduates an invaluable opportunity to get their ideas in front of the people that matter. This is why it continues to attract a huge variety of applications, with more than 400 last year.
The team was led by Josh who writes: 'After running the Great South Run in 2008, I promised myself I would never run again! However, being the athletic type, I needed to find something to replace the running.
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An early continental breakfast set us up for the day ahead and gave us strength to make our way onto the streets of Dieppe in search of a bike shop. Without a French translator there was no hope of a repair so the decision was made to leave Simon behind, Top Gear style! Raising over £2,000, literally through blood, sweat and tears (and a broken bike), we made it. Barcelona to Monte Carlo next year!'
A night down our local ended up with a friend and I deciding it would be a breeze to take on the 1,200 mile Lands End to John O'Groats challenge. With no experience of cycling other than owning a mountain bike, we proceeded to highlight our route on a road map. The rest is history! Six years on with LEJOG, London2Paris and a seven day seven countries European trip in the bag, we decided to tackle London2Paris again. No paper maps this time, pure organisation, determination and focus on a great ride for a great cause.'
“In our six years of running this competition, we've seen hundreds of incredible and innovative applications to the Varsity Pitch, from apps that are revolutionising the payments market, to bike lights that are saving lives on the road. “Winners have used the Varsity Pitch as a platform to accelerate growth, advance product development or attract investors who attend these events. Even the opportunity to hone a pitch, gain feedback and meet like-minded entrepreneurs is a valuable experience.”
30 minutes before the check in closed for the Ferry. Elsewhere … Simon was having trouble with his bike; big trouble! Out of nowhere, the gear mechanism had snapped and therefore made changing gears impossible. Being a fitness fanatic, he continued cycling in one gear(!) up and down the hills towards Newhaven. However, 15 miles outside of the ferry port, the gears snapped completely, not even allowing Simon to pedal. After picking up the bike, running with it on his shoulder, for trains and taxis, he finally made it to the ferry at 16:43, two minutes before take-off!
Richard Bullen 1993-2002
Day 1 - Big Ben to Dieppe - 102km Day 2 - Dieppe to Beauvais - 111km Day 3 - Beauvais to Paris - 76km Unfortunately the team only managed to stay together for part of the first day! Josh continues: 'Adam, Ben and I made our way towards Newhaven, finally arriving at 16:15,
has been shortlisted for this year's British Composer Awards. He recently completed a PhD with David Sawyer at the Royal Academy of Music where he also had lessons with Sir Peter Maxwell Davies and Sir Harrison Birtwistle. He has been shortlisted in the Amateur or Young Performers category for a piece inspired by Umberto Boccioni's 1912 Futurist painting Visioni simultanee.
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Nigel Gibbs 1968-75 writes: 'Last Saturday (05 December) we held a small reunion of OBMs from the 74-76 leavers, mainly based around the 1974 1st XV, at Bedford RUFC. We were honoured to have George Cullen, former legendary sports master, and Richard Chadwick, also former sports master, with us. Richard Chadwick, Bruce Mackay, Martyn Humberstone and Eueth Forrester were all star players for Bedford RUFC. Some people had not seen each other for the 40 years since school. If anyone from this era would like to get it touch, I'd be pleased to hear from you.” nigel@nigelgibbs.org
Left to right: Nigel Gibbs, Richard Chadwick, Steve Micklewright , Steve Woodin, Chris Tipton, George Cullen, Mick Valerio, Martyn Humberstone, Bruce Mackay, Stuart Parkin, Eueth Forrester, Clive Buckley, Pete Davis.
Michael Berliner
Mike Biggs
1995- 2004
1991- 2001
was the guest of honour at the Junior School Prizegiving on 02 July. Michael talked to the talented young students about his career as a BAFTA nominated film producer and commended them on their achievements both on the evening and on Twitter saying: “So wonderful to meet everyone. Amazing performances - some future superstars in there!”
Congratulations to Mike Biggs (1991- 2001) who married Ginny on 29 June 2015 at Monkton Barn, Marlow, Bucks,
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Obituaries Alan Peter Stevens 1940-44 County House, died in August 2015 aged 88. His daughter, Helen Lisle-Wood writes: 'Alan Peter Stevens, but always known as Peter, was born in Haynes, Bedfordshire on 6th January 1927 and died in North Walsham, Norfolk on the 18th August 2015. He attended Bedford Modern School from 1940 - 1944 after having been at the local Haynes village school. He would recall that Tony Hart (artist and OBM) would be on the same bus that he and his brother would catch to travel from Haynes to Bedford each day. He did his two years National Service in the RAF. His working life began as a sales representative which saw him work for Manns then Watney Manns of 'Red Barrel' fame which became Allied Breweries. Through this progression he became the Area Manager for part of the South Coast. At this time 1967/68 he moved from Bedford and lived first in Fairlight, near Hastings and then in Winchelsea, East Sussex. He retired at 65 and took up a consultancy post for three years involving the brewery as he missed working. He moved to Mundesley, Norfolk in 2001/2. Peter's adult life interest was golf and he played whenever possible beginning at the Bedford and County Golf Club in Clapham through to three years before his death at the Mundesley Golf Course in Norfolk where he still maintained his membership after being unable to play.
Whilst living in Winchelsea he was deputy mayor from 1996 to 1998, a parish councillor from 1978 to 1986 and president of the local cricket club from 1989 to leaving the village in 2001/2. Unfortunately in the last three years of his life he suffered with vascular dementia and it was only in March that he had to leave his home and go to residential care. He died in a local nursing home.' Peter's brother Edward John Stevens (1939 1946) died in October 2011.
Roger Huckle 1947-55
South House, died on 10 September 2015 at home aged 77. His cousin John Wells (195259) writes: 'Roger worked for 32 years as a draughtsman with the Igranic, Bedford, until its closure in the 1980s. He was then employed for 12 years by Debenhams in their distribution department. Roger had a keen interest in railways, which took him regularly on tours of the UK. He was unmarried.' jodowells@hotmail.co.uk
Eric Edward Smith 1940-45 County House, died on 29 June 2015, aged 87. Jacky Smith, Eric's sister-in-law writes:' Eric was the second son of Edgar and Edith Smith; his older brother was Ian (Ikey) Smith (1927-35). The family lived at Woburn Sands and Eric, like his brother, was a regular user of the Bletchley Line, and a member of County House. Eric went to Loughborough College on leaving BMS but his studies were interrupted by National Service in the Royal Army Education Corps (his father, a member of the Naval Air Services which pre-dated the Royal Flying Corps and the later Royal Air Force, did not think much of this and felt he should have followed in his and his older brother's footsteps and joined the RAF but I suspect in National Service you did not have a choice!) Whilst on National Service Eric was posted to Italy. After demob Eric returned to Loughborough and completed his studies, but Italy was close to his heart and he returned as a civilian teacher working with the children of service personnel. It was during this time that Eric met and married Ondina. In 1952, as newly-weds, they came to England and Eric began his long and distinguished career in the brick industry working initially at Marston Valley Brick Company. The Italians, especially those living in his wife's home town of Trieste, were renowned for their brick making skills and thus with his knowledge of Italian and contacts in Trieste, Eric was a frequent visitor hiring men to come and work in the brick making industry in England. Eric and Ondina had three children: Guiliana, Eliana and Adrian and Italian was the first language in the household. Eric and Ondina loved cycling and in later
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years gave up the tandem for a tri-cycle but the latter did not last very long and they reverted to the traditional cycle. The whole family loved caravanning, which also gave Eric the opportunity to enjoy one of his other hobbies of photography. Sadly Ondina died when she was still relatively young and a lonely Eric returned once more to Italy where he lived for several years.
Keith Tomlinson 1942-50 East House, died on 01 November 2015 aged 85. He is survived by his wife Linda, two sons and two stepchildren, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
He eventually returned to England and went to live in Haywards Heath with his daughter Eliana. Once again he took up teaching, albeit informally, and held Italian classes for those who seriously wanted to learn Italian or those who just wanted it for holidays in Italy. Like his father and his brother Ian, Eric was always doing something right up to the end of his life. On the last occasion that I saw him in hospital, only about a week before his death, Eric was making plans with one of his friends to get his teaching classes going when he got out of hospital. Sadly this was not to be.
Keith's wife Linda writes: 'born on the 05 October 1930 in Watford and brought up in Bedford, Keith attended BMS from 1942 until 1950. At the age of 15 he was Head Chorister at St Paul's' Church and was very active in sports where he played rugby for the school and rowed at Henley and Marlow in the school fours and eights.
Like Ikey, Eric was proud to be an OBM and greatly valued his time at the school and the excellent standing in life that it gave him. I suspect they are even now talking about the old school, the teachers, their fellow pupils, old cars and motorcycles to name just a few topics. Floreat Bedfordia.'
He joined Kettering Rugby Club where he met his wife who had two small children. Sadly his wife died at a young age whilst he was then training to be a teacher. Two years later, in 1972, he married Linda, who he
After his National Service he returned to Bedford and worked for the Road Transport and General Insurance Company later being promoted to Inspector and subsequently moving to Kettering.
met through the local Gilbert and Sullivan society. Singing and acting was a major part of his life for many years whilst teaching English and Drama at Bishop Stopford School and Kettering Boys School. During this time he moved to Geddington where he served on the Village Hall Committee, belonged to the Amateur Dramatic Society and was a founder member of the Geddington Bowling Club. Freemasonry was another very important part of his life and he was an active member of different Lodges throughout Northamptonshire for more than 40 years.'
William H Ansley 1935-41
South House, died in hospital after a short illness on 01 September 2015 aged 90. He served in the Air Force for 32 years joining at age 16, two years after WWII started. He is survived by his younger brother John H Ansley (1942-48), three nephews and two nieces. His elder brother Robert J H Ansley (1931-37) died in January 2003. His nephew, Richard M H Ansley (1965-66) sent a transcript of conversations compiled by William's neighbour and close friend in 2012.
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Obituaries There follows some excerpts from the document, entitled Bill the Flag's Memories: 'We were all sixteen year olds. It was in 1942. We were all young and innocent. We arrived at Halton - got off the train at Wendover we were all together - not the whole entry but a large number of us and we were going up to the Number 1 Wing at Halton. Up the hill, and on the other side we could see two people on the square, the big square for those who haven't been to Halton, the big parade square, and we were going around the square towards barrack blocks where we were going to live. All of a sudden there was the most - I don't know how to describe it - voice of this, in the army would have been a sergeant major but was a warrant officer first class: “Get off my …”- and I'll stop there! There was one poor little erk who had put two feet on the parade square and this warrant office discipline fellow saw him. We were on the other side of the square but it frightened us. We were just joining the Air Force and that was our introduction. It was marvellous really because we knew where we were. We were going to do exactly what we were told.
There were about twenty five of us. I had been in, what did they call them, something before the ATC, and I was in my uniform. That was another mistake. Never mind, it all worked out very well and I ended up as a flight sergeant apprentice. The food was very good. We were all growing lads you see - we were only sixteen. I wouldn't willingly miss a single minute of my Air Force career. I enjoyed every minute of it. My RAF number was 578779. You don't forget it in a hurry. Where did I go from Halton? I went abroad somewhere. Of yes, I went to France, because the invasion was starting. I got thrown in at the deep end. Great days! I have often thought to myself that I am so glad I lived when I did because of the experiences of it you see. It was exciting and it was frightening. It was everything. I had been trained as an apprentice engineer and when I finished training I went out to a fighter squadron. We went on to an airfield, the name of which I cannot remember and my elder brother, who was a fighter pilot, appeared at the same airfield and he said; “How would you like to change and come on to my squadron?” So I said; “Yes fine,” and so he got one of his lads who was of the same rank and trade as myself and we swapped, just like that! You couldn't do it nowadays. The two squadrons just changed the names and that was it. We just swapped. So for the rest of the war I was with my brother. My brother was a pilot - a fighter pilot - flying Typhoons and Tempests. We had Hurricanes as well but Bob was on Typhoons. A mighty aeroplane. I got very near to being trained as a fighter pilot after the war and I was out with some chaps on some wild country land and we had shotguns to shoot birds. A rather nasty thing to do really. We were rather spread out a bit. I think there were three or four of us and a bird came up between myself and the other fellow on my right and I looked round. The other chap swung round, fired and hit me. That is why this eye is not a lot of
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good. And that is what stopped me from having any further idea of flying. I had a shotgun pellet in my eye. He peppered me all over. I'd never looked down a gun before and I never want to again, I knew that I had been hit and it hurt! It was frightening. When I first met Barbara my mother had died and my father had no idea of cooking for himself. He was getting on a bit too and so I started to go home at weekends to cook for him and so I had to make sure that I was able to cook and that's where Barbara came in. We were having dinner in the Mess and I happened to mention this to one of the blokes at the table we were sitting at and he said; “Go and ask Ma'am Salt” - that was Barbara's maiden name. 'Ma'am because she was of Warrant Officer rank you see. So I went and asked Ma'am Salt; “How do you roast potatoes?” She told me. And that's how we met and eventually married. So Dad got his roast potatoes and I got my wife! I have often thought recently, very recently, how glad I am that I did what I did. I really had some wonderful times. There have been bad times as well but you forget those, or I do anyway. My only regret is that I really wanted to be a pilot and I never did make a pilot. So I took up sailplanes instead after the war. I had a jolly good time and ended up a Chief Flying Instructor.'
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OBM Obituaries
Keith Lazenby 1941-44 South House, died on 14 September 2015, aged 83. His daughter Jane and Timothy Morley (1977-83) collectively write: 'Keith Lazenby FRICS, a well-known and respected Chartered Surveyor and Estate Agent, was born in Bedford on 7 February 1932. He attended Elstow Village School and then went to Bedford Modern School, later becoming President of the OBM Club in 2004. Apart from two years of National Service overseas, he worked for almost 60 years at W&H Peacock, starting in 1948 as an articled clerk and being made a partner in 1964.
Keith had many interests and was an enthusiastic participant in many charitable and other organisations; he held memberships of both Bedford Rotary Club and the Probus Club in Bedford. The Surveyors 1921 Club, an organisation which fostered high ethical and professional standards in the world of surveying, was another keen interest of Keith's. He was a member for 65 years during which time he served as President in 1973. He chaired the Property Advisory Committee of Bedford College, and supported the St Andrews Church Council to which he was Secretary for close to 12 years. As a young man, Keith was very involved in sport, swimming and playing water polo. He was a member of Bedford Motor Club and spent many hours devising the routes for car rallies and treasure hunts. In 1958, Keith married Susan Graham-Smith (Sue) and they had two daughters, Jane and Elizabeth (Zippy). He was a loving and generous father who welcomed two sonsin-law and five grandchildren into the family. He was never happier than in his role as ‘Grandpa’.
Over the years, Keith wrote a book, published in November 2014 entitled Pride of Peacocks, reflecting both his interest and pride in playing such a large part of what had become a Bedford institution. The book is a fascinating memoir as well as a very interesting social and historical commentary of both the Peacock history and that of Bedford. He was thrilled to be invited to participate in an exhibition at the Higgins' 'Great Bedfordians Gallery', which celebrated individuals who contributed to, and were part of the local community. He enjoyed an active and busy retirement during which he and Sue travelled extensively. He was a much respected member of his profession, being a mentor to many and a role model to many more. He will be missed in so many ways by the very wide Bedfordshire Community where he was well-liked and renowned for his exceptional standards, ethos, integrity and honesty, all of which formed the platform of his approach to life, and one which he instilled into others, particularly the 'youngsters' which he employed at the Peacocks' Bedford office, several of whom were OBMs!'
Paul Archer 1947-54
Following the sale of the family firm of Peacocks in 1988, Keith became a Director in the enlarged company, then eased back to a consultancy role before his final retirement. He kept up with former colleagues and always maintained a lively interest in the profession.
West House, passed peacefully away at home on 12 July 2014.
Photo courtesy of Brenton Jackson, Commissioned by The Higgins
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Directory of OBM Services Building Contractor
Land and Property Consultants
Solicitor
Richard (Dick) Gray (1964-71), R.P.Gray Ltd., 14 Wilden Road, Renhold, Bedford, MK41 0JP, 01234 772007, rp_gray@yahoo.co.uk www.rpgray.co.uk
Jeremy Clayson (1964-71), Warmingtons, Park Farm, Stevington, Bedfordshire, MK43 7QF, 01234 823661
Simon Parrott (1975-80), Sharman Law, 1 Harpur Street, Bedford MK40 1PF, 01234 303030, simon.parrott@sharmanlaw.co.uk www.sharmanlaw.co.uk
Commercial, industrial and domestic HNBC registered house builder established in 1980.
Business Consultant Andrew Penn (1961-70), Leyhill Solutions, 40 Whitehall, Lidlington, Bedford, MK43 0RS, 07775 426355, 01525 403232, andrew.penn@leyhill.com, www.leyhill.com Improving your business using internationally recognised standards e.g. ISO, EFQM, IIP and CSE.
Chartered Surveyors Giles Ferris (1982-1991) BSc (Hons) MRICS, Stimpsons Eves Chartered Surveyors, 1 Lurke Street, Bedford, MK40 3TN, 01234 341311, www.stimpsonseves.co.uk Offering a variety of professional services including Commercial Agency Disposal & Acquisition, Rent Reviews, Lease Renewals, Landlord & Tenant Advice, Schedules of Dilapidation, Red Book Valuations Condition Surveys, Rating Appeals, EPC and Asbestos Reports.
Engineer (Civil and Structural) Neil Johnson (1964-71), Neil Johnson Associates, Unit 9, Beancroft Farm, Beancroft Road, Marston Moreteyne, Bedford, MK43 0QE, 01234 768684, neil@nja-group.co.uk www.nja-group.co.uk Consulting civil and structural engineers and building design consultants.
Fisher German LLP is a leading national firm of Chartered Surveyors and Specialist Property Consultants. 15 offices nationwide covering 6 sectors: Commercial/ Planning & Construction/ Property Agency/ Renewable Energy/ Rural Consultancy/ Utilities & Infrastructure
Optometrist Simon Browning (1970-78), Simon Browning Optometrist, 55 Harpur Street, Bedford, MK40 2SR, 01234 353454, sbrowning@eye1.co.uk. NHS and private eye examinations, contact lens consultations, and optomap peripheral and central retinal examinations carried out.
Office also in Ampthill.
Tree Surgeon Neil Smith BSc (Hons) (1988-96), Heritage Arboriculture, New Buildings Farm, Orchard Lane, Harrold, Beds, MK43 7BU, 01234 720801, 07787 726962, neil@heritagearboriculture.co.uk www.heritagearboriculture.co.uk Tree-related advice: planning and TPO applications; hazardous tree removals; veteran tree management; crown thinning and reductions; hedgework; orchard/fruit tree management; tree planting; stump grinding.
Pest Control Veterinary Surgeon Matt Wheeler (1985-90), Professional Pest Management Ltd., Unit 7A, Old Bridge Way, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5HQ, 01462 811818, matt@ppmlimited.co.uk Specialises in domestic and corporate pest management. Council appointed. Nationwide. Port Authority security clearance.
David Chennells (1961-70), Acorn House Veterinary Surgery, Linnet Way, Bedford, MK41 7HN, 01234 261839, 01234 266412, www.acornhousevets.com Fully equipped purpose built seven vet clinic for companion animals and also farm services.
Printer Simon Diffey (1977-80), Merry Printers, 22-36 Hastings Street, Luton, LU1 5BE, 01582 726959, www.merryprinters.co.uk Printers and designers of quality product literature, report and accounts, manuals and business stationery.
If you are an OBM with a business or service to promote, and would like to appear in this listing, please email externalrelations@bedmod.co.uk for business rates.
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2016 Classical Showcase Concert Calling all singers and instrumentalists OBMs of all ages are warmly invited to join the school choir and orchestra in this concert to be held on Thursday 05 May in the Howard Hall. Both singers and instrumentalists are welcome. The format will be similar to previous years with music sent out in advance, a rehearsal in the afternoon and the concert itself in the evening.
OBMs who have not taken part before are very welcome. It is a good chance to catch up with friends from school days and to support the school's music making.
If you wish to take part please respond by e-mail, marking it Classical Showcase Concert - OBM, to robinwills@hotmail.co.uk with a copy to dburrows@bedmod.co.uk
This year's programme will include Vivaldi's Gloria for the combined choir. Most singers and players will know this piece which is why it has been chosen.
Please provide an address to which the music can be sent.
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W
e are extremely grateful to everyone who has, over the years, pledged their support to the School, and would like to express our thanks to everyone who has made a donation for their generosity. Every gift we receive really does make a difference.
If you have left a gift for Bedford Modern School in your will, please let us know so that we can thank you in your lifetime. Write to: Tel: Email:
Julie Ridge, Director of External Relations Bedford Modern School, Manton Lane, Bedford, MK41 7NT 01234 332500 jridge@bedmod.co.uk
Thank You.