Old Bromsgrovian Newsletter, Issue 1 - November 2011

Old Bromsgrovian

REGI

Newsletter

November 2011

We are delighted to announce that four Bromsgrovians have been named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2011.

Helen Braithwaite (Mary Windsor 19791984) has been appointed an OBE. Helen is Resilience Manager for the Government Office for the West Midlands. Helen recently attended the 1985-1995 Leavers’ Reunion with her husband, Philip Ingle also an OB. From Little Red Riding Hood, to Iolanthe to OBE! Well how on earth did that happen?

Clearly this wasn’t something any of Helen’s teachers anticipated – “Helen could do with putting as much effort into her studies as she does her extra curricular activities” is a quote from an old school report!

Foundations for success must have been laid somewhere along the way….

So to say she was surprised to receive this award is the understatement of the century.

Feelings of pride are tinged with a touch of embarrassment, because whilst great to be personally recognised for the job she does, Helen shares her award with a fantastic team of people – all those with whom she works, her incredibly supportive family and great friends – who have all added to the excitement of the experience.

Queen’s Birthday Honours for Bromsgrovians

Helen Braithwaite OBE

Robert Dowler MBE

Robert Dowler (Gordon 1958-1962) has been awarded an MBE for services to the Voluntary Sector.

Robert’s days at Bromsgrove were not, contrary to the popular saying “the happiest days of his life” but, having been back to the School fairly recently, he is sure that, had it been then as it is now, he would have loved it. Leaving at the end of the summer term of 1962, Robert went on to qualify as a Chartered Surveyor and spent most of his full time working life as a partner in a practice in Richmond, and to this day continues to act as a consultant for the firm. Along the way Robert married Gill and together had four children none of whom have followed in their father’s footsteps.

Some twenty four years ago Robert became involved as a Trustee of The Royal Cambridge Home For Soldiers’ Widows, a residential care home for ladies with an

Professor Christopher Hood CBE Army, or other armed service, connection.

When the Brigadier, with whom Robert worked very closely, eventually retired at the age of 93 he found himself appointed as “Acting Chairman” and eventually the Chairman. It is chiefly Robert’s involvement with the Home which has given rise to the award of an MBE – an honour of which he is

Dr Stephen Marsh-Smith OBE both immensely proud and totally surprised.

Robert attended the Investiture on 3rd November at Windsor Castle.

Continued on page 3, col 3...

HURRAH FOR THE HARD COPY – A WORD FROM THE BROMSGROVIAN CLUB CHAIRMAN So, we live in a time when the leading internet search engine has become a verb and we’re told, simply, to ‘google it’ when we need some information.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a passionate believer in the value of the internet and every day I use e-mail, social networking and many other valuable services provided via the worldwide web. No Luddite here, then. And as for Google itself, well it’s right at the forefront of internet innovation and an inspirational advertisement for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. But isn’t searching the web something of a soulless journey of discovery, offering little in the way of enjoyment – a purely functional activity?

Indeed, such is the all-pervading presence of the internet that it would be easy to forget that there is an arguably much more interesting, surprising and yet relaxing way to keep informed: the printed word.

Books, magazines and journals have always been (and still are) essential sources of information and I hope they remain so for a long time, because there’s real satisfaction in researching a subject by reading articles and books and then producing an analysis that is so much richer than letting the algorithm do the work for you!

And what about the excitement of flicking through an unfamiliar book in Waterstones and, on impulse, buying it when you hadn’t even known it existed before you’d idled away a few minutes in the shop. Or finding a book at home, that you’d forgotten all about, and when you open it part way through, you’re reminded of how much you’d enjoyed it the last time. It would be sad if these simple pleasures were to disappear.

So I am delighted to welcome you to this new publication for Bromsgrovians – not delivered via the internet in ‘soft copy’ but a booklet that you can get your hands on: something that you can put down and then pick up again tomorrow. It’s unlikely to become the next Roget’s Thesaurus or Oxford English Dictionary and it probably won’t make the ‘bestsellers’ lists, but we hope that it will become something that you refer to – often – and keep around to ‘dip into’ regularly.

The focus, of course, will be on Bromsgrovian news, but it will also feature news of developments at the School. We hope that the articles, stories and other features will connect Bromsgrovians across the generations and that there will be something in it for everyone. That will depend on you, to a great extent, because we will rely on you to keep us informed of what you’ve been up to. So enjoy this first edition and perhaps that will prompt you to update us on your news so that you become the ‘star’ of the next issue.

Oh, and if you want to know more about Luddites, don’t rely on our friends from Mountain View, California but look it up in an encyclopaedia or, better still, a book on 19th century English history. You never know what else you might discover!

Hans Rostrup Chairman, The Bromsgrovian Club

WELCOME FROM THE HEADMASTER Seven years on and I’m still working on my modest ambition for Bromsgrove: that it becomes the finest school in the world. I stand tiptoe on the shoulders of giants still.

Without the bravery and ambition of those who came before (sometimes in the darkest of days), we would not be where we are now.

My pride in this School is made possible only because of Bromsgrovians – staff and pupils – who played their part in this extraordinary story.

Extensive statistics are a dull and certain route to draining the life out of any topic, so let’s just say sixteen hundred children are enjoying examination and games results that make us sound like an academic hothouse and a sports academy rolled into one when in fact we are neither. Music and Drama flourish as never before and, as I write, we have become National Debating Champions for the second time since I’ve been here. Five new buildings are going up simultaneously including one, the new sports arena, that might just be the largest indoor space in the county. And so on. Like I said: it gets dull unless you appreciate the fizz, the electricity that makes so many parents want to send their children here.

That palpable sense of energy and warmth defines us today.

You are all welcome to come back and see us. Open arms at this end. Friendly isn’t the half of it. But ... you do need to keep an open mind if you haven’t been back for a while. Stagnant schools are not really stagnant: they’re dying. We, however, intend to be around for another half millennium at least. I wish this new publication every success.

Best wishes to you all, CHRIS EDWARDS Headmaster

Queen’s Birthday Honours for Bromsgrovians Continued from front page...

Professor Christopher Hood FBA (Gordon 1960-1965) has been awarded a CBE for services to social science. Professor Hood is Gladstone Professor of Government and Fellow of All Souls College Oxford, he is also a Fellow of the British Academy (chair of the BA’s Politics Section 2002-2005) and Academician of the Academy of Learned Societies of the Social Sciences and Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration (United States).

Jenny Bossard, Bromsgrovian Executive Assistant and Hans Rostrup, Chairman of the Bromsgrovian Club

The Bromsgrovian Club welcomes Jenny Bossard Jenny Bossard (née Gricks) started work at Bromsgrove School at the beginning of July as the Bromsgrovian Executive Assistant. Her role is to support the Assistant Head, working closely with the School, Committee and Membership of the Bromsgrovian Club and be the first point of contact for all alumni. She is an OB herself having been one of the first four girls to enter the School (1972-1974) and was in Walters House. Her father (Dennis Gricks, Wendron 1946-1951), brother (Gareth Gricks, Wendron 1972-1977) and uncle (Keith Dunn, School 1950-1954) also attended the school. Her Godfather Tony Hilton (Gordon 1945-1950) is presently the President of the Bromsgrovian Club.

You can contact Jenny by either calling 01527 579679, Ext. 357 or emailing her at jbossard@bromsgrove-school.co.uk.

NAME ME! We need you to come up with a fun and exciting name for our new annual magazine specifically for alumni of Bromsgrove School. All you have to do is come up with an eye-catching title which reflects the School and/or its alumni. The winning entry will be chosen by the Bromsgrovian Club in consultation with the School, and the new name will be incorporated into next year’s magazine, also featuring the winner on the front cover. The winner will receive a case of wine courtesy of The Bromsgrovian Club.

During 2010-2011, Professor Hood was on sabbatical leave as a visiting professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science. He returned to Oxford to take up an ESRC Professorial Fellowship in summer 2011. Christopher specialises in the study of executive government, regulation and public-sector reform. Before going to Oxford in 2001 he held chairs at the London School of Economics (he was head of the Government Department there from 1995 to 1998) and the University of Sydney, NSW, and he has also worked at the universities of Glasgow, York, Bielefeld, the National University of Singapore and the City University of Hong Kong.

Dr Stephen Marsh-Smith (School 19631968, Director of the Wye and Usk Foundation) has been awarded an OBE for services to the Rivers Wye and Usk. An avid fisherman for over half a century, the award recognises the extraordinary efforts he has put into restoring and protecting the two rivers over the past 15 years.

Following the dramatic decline of the Wye’s Atlantic salmon runs in the late 1980s and 1990s, Dr Marsh-Smith, along with a group of other Wye owners, established the Wye Foundation in 1996 and began work to reverse the seemingly inexorable decline of Wye salmon. The organisation became the Wye & Usk Foundation (WUF) in 2002 and is now Britain’s largest Rivers’ Trust.

Away from the Wye and Usk, Stephen has also played an important role in the political side of angling. As chair of the Anglers’ Conservation Association, he helped to unite the various representative bodies into the Angling Trust and became its first Chairman in 2009. He also played a part in the creation of the Association of Rivers’ Trusts in 1999. (With thanks to the Wye and Usk Foundation for the information in this article).

Congratulations to all four Bromgrovians.

If you have any ideas or suggestions please email Oldbromsgrovians@ bromsgrove-school.co.uk no later than 31st January, 2012 (please enter the subject line “NAME ME! Bromsgrove Alumni Newsletter”)

OB News

1950s Old Bromsgrovians Dinner

Keith Reeve

A small group of OBs from the 1950-54 era met for dinner at the Wellington Arms in Stratfield Turgis near Hook in Hampshire on 29th September. This was their fourth reunion and included OBs David Benson, Colin Brown, Raymond Way, Trevor Groocock, (all ex Wendron) plus John Lloyd, Chris Woosnam, Nick Came and John Marshall, all from School House. If anyone from their time wishes to be included, either now or in future years, please contact Nick Came on 01252 623691.

Keith Reeve (School 1942-1947) won the AE Housman Poetry Prize back in 1947, and has continued to write poetry to this day. His latest is printed below.

When our old beech trees bloomed prolifically You could see In all their profuse pinkness A need for a final flourish.

Our arborist says that when they’s dying They does that..

They wants to promulgate.

Our trash fire’s final flames leap higher Before the embers sink to ash.

My friend explains at length the facts About the acts of gasses.

James Garrett

Bromsgrove School hosts Worcestershire Ambassadors and Primrose Hospice

My own desire’s like beech and fire To burst with love for love Before the dying and the ashes.

John Garrett

David Cross

David Cross (Elmshurst 1951-1954) qualified as a Chartered Accountant and was a partner in private practice for many years until he retired in 2003. He has remained a director of Auto Suppliers Ltd, specialists in automotive replacement parts for classic and modern vehicles and a leading European supplier of repair kits for power steering racks, boxes and pumps.

Married with two daughters, he has a keen interest in the Great War 1914-1918 and has written an account of the involvement of Bromsgrove School and Old Bromsgrovians in that war, a copy of which is held in the Old Chapel. He has always enjoyed flyfishing and shooting and his interest in motorsport began at an early age with a visit to Shelsley Walsh Hillclimb. Although never a competitor, he keenly follows historic motorsport and is closely involved with the Bond Formula Junior Racing Team, admiring the spirit which engenders fast is good – faster is better!

For some years, David has been intrigued by the ways in which racing cars appeared in the paddock at a race meeting and was disappointed to find no specific guidance or literature on what appeared to be an important facet of motorsport. He decided to remedy this omission and his detailed research has resulted in the publication of this unique new book.

From Paddock To Paddock - Racing Car Transporters At Work, contains nearly 550 images, many unpublished hitherto, which are enhanced and embellished by wellresearched and informative captions. This is more than a coffee table book; it takes a serious look at the history of the transport of racing cars in a picturesque manner.

David hopes the book will hit the shelves by Christmas 2011.

James and John Garrett

Lord Jones, Grant Warren (Lloyds TSB), Lesley Brookes (Bursar) Bromsgrove School hosted a Charity Dinner for the Worcestershire Ambassadors, in aid of Primrose Hospice during Lent term 2011.

Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham (Walters 1969-1974), Patron of Primrose Hospice, was the key note speaker for the evening.

The Worcestershire Ambassadors, with Chairman Phil Dutton at the helm, were also honoured to have Phil Nunnerley, Chairman of Primrose speak about the work of the Hospice.

The Ambassadors enjoyed a pre-dinner reception in Wendron-Gordon House before dinner which was served in the Old Chapel.

A raffle was also held on the evening, which raised £3055 for Primrose Hospice.

Lionel Cartwright Lionel Cartwright (School 1968-1973) is a GP in Poole and is presently leading one of the new Clinical Commissioning Groups that is due to take over from Primary Care Trusts in 2013. This project has an annual budget of £500 million of public money.

James Garrett (School 1970-1974) has been working as a freelance executive producer since leaving ITV in December 2008. To date his productions have included Panorama: I Helped My Daughter Die, a film about assisted suicide for BBC1; The Channel Islands at War, a series of programmes for Yesterday (UKTV) in which John Nettles met people who had lived through the occupation between 1940-45 on the only bit of British soil to be occupied by the Nazis; and Pint-sized or Super-sized?, an investigation for BBC Wales into socalled mega-dairies. He recently established BRIDGE Films, a production company with Duncan Staff, a former colleague at the BBC, where he worked from 1986-94, before a 15 year stint at ITV West, which culminated in seven years as head of regional programmes.

His brother John (School 1972-1977) has been promoted to regional sales director for the South Pacific region for American President Lines (APL). John joined APL in 1995 when the company, the world’s fourth largest container transport and shipping line, began operations in Europe. He has been based in Hong Kong since 2000, working in various management roles. Coincidentally the company’s HQ is in Scottsdale, Arizona, where sister Liz moved to in April 2011, when she was recruited to run cosmetics firm Philosophy.

OBs meet again 40 years on

Bud Gemmell and Surapong Sugunnasil during their School days Bud Gemmell (Wendron 1965-1971) is meeting up with Surapong Sugunnasil (Wendron 1965-1970) in Chiang Mai near Bangkok, Thailand in November this year.

They played in a band together for about 5 years at School but they haven’t seen each other since their Bromsgrove days over 40 years ago.

Dr Jonathan Phillips cleaning the OR equipment with Haitian supervision

Jonathan Phillips on his journey to Haiti Dr Jonathan Phillips (School 1972-1977) is Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, having previously been Chief of Pediatric Orthopaedics at the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, also in Orlando. After the Haiti Earthquake in January 2010, Dr Phillips travelled to the island to give his medical services to the local hospital. He has kindly provided us with an account of his time over there that can be downloaded by going to www.bromsgrovians.com (then click ‘Bromsgrovian News’). A couple of paragraphs from the moving article are listed below. … It wasn’t until we descended to about 2000 feet on our approach to Port au Prince that we started to see what we were in for and everyone got a little bit quiet. The city was a grey brown vista of tin roofed shacks.

From the air it was not obvious how many huge buildings had collapsed killing their occupants and not until we saw them at eye level did the power of the earthquake really hit home.

Everywhere we looked as we left Port au Prince behind were pan caked buildings, poorly constructed concrete crumpled like cardboard, reinforcing rod sticking up from the rubble as if making rude gestures to the sky. Barefoot shell shocked Haitians trying to survive picked their ways down the road, some carrying water, some carrying a few valuables. There was an air of devastation but quiet resignation, a typically Haitian trait as I would come to find out. Our arrival in Saintard was low key and winding up narrow roads seemingly impassable in our big bus until we eventually came to a massive steel door in a ten foot concrete wall topped by razor wire. The guard duly let us into a four acre compound containing an orphanage, sleeping and eating quarters and the clinic, a partially finished building at the north end of the complex still, after ten years, under construction.

We were greeted in the waning light by the sight of a desperate looking father who had brought his 4 year old daughter to the clinic hours earlier. Word had got out that there were doctors finally coming to Saintard and he had patiently waited half the day for our help. She had suffered an injury to her eye when concrete had fallen on her in the collapsing house the family had lived in. The wound had become infected... It later turned out that this was not the whole story… and she had had surgery on this eye a few months before. Somehow we got an IV in her and gave antibiotics. Overnight she gradually rehydrated only to deteriorate into uncontrollable seizures: the fluid that kept her alive had swollen her brain. It seemed that the previous “surgery‟ had probably been for a retinoblastoma, an eyeball tumour which subsequently invaded her brain. A local optician came by and confirmed our impression that she was untreatable. She was given last rites and sent home to die.

Welcome to Haiti Jonathan.

Mrs Celia Skitt (formerly Gibbin)

Mr Al McClure and Mrs Celia Skitt in the Old Chapel Mrs Skitt (formerly Gibbin, 1959-1980) returned to Commemoration Day for the first time in over 20 years. Celia was married to one of the previous Housemasters of Lupton. Whilst in the Old Chapel Celia chatted to current Lupton Housemaster Mr Al McClure about her time at Bromsgrove.

Salim Hadri-Khoussa

Salim Hadri-Khoussa (Elmshurst 19941999) is currently working in Dubai. If any OB is visiting the area and would like to get together for a meal/coffee, please email him at salim.hadri-khoussa@hotmail.com

Mike Jordan is Chairman of Summit Systems

(Photograph credited to Mike Jordan/British Plastics and Rubber magazine)

Mike Jordan takes on Boomerang

Matt Neal racing for Honda

Matt Neal Matt Neal (School 1979- 1984) has been involved in motorsport for over 20 years as a driver. His current contract is with Honda Racing driving for their official team in the British Touring Car Championship. Matt is currently running in 3rd position this year.

Mike Jordan (Gordon 1971-1976) is Chairman of Summit Systems. Summit’s spin off company Boomerang Plastics specialises in recycling contaminated plastic in niche markets. Mike recently featured in trade magazine, British Plastics and Rubber, showcasing his company’s new venture.

Dr Justin Hughes

1985-1995 Leavers’ Reunion group

Chris Lee at work

1985-1995 Leavers’ Reunion a huge success!

Chris Lee Dr Justin Hughes (centre) with 2011 Upper Sixth leavers Hugh Lockhart and Hugh McBride Dr Justin Hughes (Lyttelton 1988-1993) was the England Rugby U18 doctor for the 2010/11 rugby season. He is a consultant in Sports, Exercise and Rehabilitation Medicine for the Ministry of Defence in Headley Court where he treats injured service personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. He has also worked with Esher rugby, Harlequins, UK Athletics, Fulham Football Club, Chelsea FC academy and was the Sports Medicine consultant for the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Lunch in Routh Hall

Chris Lee (Cobham then WendronGordon 1987-1992) is now a Consultant Gynaecologist based at Princess Royal University Hospital in Farnborough, Kent. Chris specialises in minimal access gynaecology (keyhole surgery). He is married and has three young sons.

Chris would be very happy to hear from any budding future doctors, or help organise work experience. If you are interested in contacting Chris please email Oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk

Jonny Muir

Justin played for the 1st XV at School from 1991-1993 and still has his No.1 shirt framed in his office. Some of the England U18 training camps were held at Bromsgrove School for the 2010/11 season.

Justin was very excited about returning to the School and running out on Bigside again. He is however alarmed that it is now 18 years ago since he last did it!

Jonny Muir’s new book

Edwin Jenkins

Looking through the archives in the Old Chapel On 10th September 2011, over 100 Old Bromsgrovians attended the Reunion for those who left School between 1985–1995.

The day commenced with a welcoming service in the School’s Memorial Chapel, followed by a tour of the School and lunch in Routh Hall. The day ended with many alumni watching School rugby and hockey matches. Included in this group of leavers was a large cohort of female Old Bromsgrovians who were in attendance for the first time, having been the very first girls to start at the Prep School in the 1980s.

Jonny Muir (School 1994-1999) has had a second book published called ‘Isles at the Edge of the Sea’ (his first was ‘Heights of Madness’). The book charts an overland and overseas journey among the west coast islands of Scotland, starting on Arran and culminating on St Kilda, the western most outpost of the British Isles.

Priyanka Palani Acharya Edwin Jenkins is currently working in stunning Langkawi Malaysia Edwin Jenkins (1993-1998 WendronGordon) is currently working in Langkawi Malaysia as the Sales Director for a 5* development of luxury apartments. He would like to make contact with anyone living and working in SE Asia, particularly any old school friends in the region. You can contact Edwin by email at Edwin@ lagunalangkawi.info

Mr and Mrs Acharya Priyanka Palani Acharya visited Bromsgrove on Friday 11th March 2011 with her husband. Priyanka attended Bromsgrove in 2002 and boarded in Mary Windsor House.

If you have any news of yourself or any other OBs, please email the information and pictures to Oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk.

SPORTS, CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

what to expect, but to get on it simply contact the Hon Sec Anthony Webb (School 1955-1959)

The Old Bromsgrovians Golf Society

Old Quarry Cottage, Brockton, Much Wenlock, Shropshire TF13 6JR Tel: 01746 785596, Mob: 07831 506746, E-mail: anthonywebb. oldquarrycottage@virgin.net

OB Netball Team

Please do not hesitate to contact Helen Lambert (Thomas Cookes 1997-2002) at helenlouise83@live.co.uk or Harriet Eales (Hazeldene 2000-2008) on hcveales@ hotmail.com; the OBs need YOU! The team also said a fond farewell to their coach, Jenny Green (Hazeldene 2005), who is moving to London. She has been a great asset to the club, both as a coach and a player, showing fantastic commitment and enthusiasm over the past 3 years. The OBs wish her all the best for the future.

Futura Bromsgrovians Rugby Team Mark Abel (Lupton 2000-2004) has formed, with the help of many other Old Bromsgrovians from 2004, the Futura Bromsgrovians Rugby team.

1st Tee at Blackwell - L to R: Andrew Parffrey, Ian Mellor, Adrian Powell, Bill Jordan

Many of the current team from Bromsgrove School have kept in constant contact as friends since leaving in 2004. A common interest in Rugby has been a major contributor to their strong friendship group.

The team said farewell to their coach, OB Jenny Green this summer

OB and School teams before match, October 2010 The Old Bromsgrovians Golf Society continues to thrive having celebrated its 40th Anniversary back in 2006, but they are always very happy to welcome new faces, young or old. You don’t have to be particularly good at golf to join them on their OB days at Edgbaston Golf Club in May and Blackwell Golf Club in October. They are both excellent and prestigious courses and the Society always manages to have a very good day finishing with a dinner in the evening.

Matches are also played against the School golf team which is always very well received.

The Society enters competitions in the Midland Public Schools Old Boys at Little Aston and the big national Public Schools championship, the Grafton Morrish. The team narrowly missed qualifying again this year for the finals at Royal West Norfolk and Hunstanton, and they really need just a couple more very low handicap golfers to have a real chance. You must be out there somewhere, just a quick call will do!

In addition, the Bromsgrovian Club have for the last few years generously agreed to fund young golfers who have recently left Bromsgrove to enable them to fully participate in the Society. This means that they have their golf and days out for free!

If you are already “on the list” you know

The OB Netball team The OB netball team is a fun, friendly netball club that encompasses a range of netballing ability. The summer season has seen a record number of participants in the Redditch League, as well as entering a new team, the OB Cannons, into the Worcester League. The OB Arrows won the Second Division in Redditch over the summer and look forward to returning to Division One next year. League matches have been nicely complemented by the Millbrook and Versatility tournaments, not to mention numerous socials, including Bowling, BBQs, a Thai meal and nights out in Birmingham.

The enthusiasm to play for the OBs has led to the decision to enter 3 teams into the Redditch League this season, welcoming the new team of OB Blaze. This is in addition to the continuation of OB Cannons in the Worcester League over the winter season.

As a consequence, the team are always on the lookout for new players, especially OBs you will be very welcome, whether you have been playing regularly elsewhere or want to start playing again!

Prior to the Summer, Mark and the team discussed ways in which they could organise social gatherings. Following those discussions it was decided to enter a Rugby Team into the Newquay Surf 7’s rugby tournament. Mark kindly agreed to organise the event and donate a rugby kit which was supplied by his company FUTURA DESIGN. On Friday 1st July this year, the tournament commenced over 3 days, entering into the Presidents Cup. Their group consisted of 3 teams where Futura Bromsgrovians finished 2nd having won 1 and lost 1. Unfortunately they did not qualify to go through to the finals. However, the weekend was a huge success for the team, all having thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Attendees were: Mark Abel (Lupton 2000-2004), Jack Edwards (Walters 1993-2004), Adam Parr (Elmshurst 2002-2004), Sam Robinson (Lupton 1993-2004), William Hawes (Elmshurst 1998-2004), Greg Jordan (Wendron-Gordon 1993-2004), Alan Keylock (Walters 2002-2004), Mike Jones (School 2000-2004), James Lammas (Walters 2002-2004) and Oliver Woodyatt (School 1999-2004).

On the final evening of the tournament the team decided that it should be an annual trip, but would look to organise a Golf Tournament for 2012 to enable more Old Bromsgrovian friends who do not play Rugby to attend. Mark’s company will again be sponsoring the trip providing golfing polo shirts as the FUTURA BROMSGROVIANS look to hit the Algarve.

If you would like to find out more about the Futura Bromsgrovians team and their plans please contact Mark Abel: mark@futuradesignltd.co.uk

SPORTS, CLUBS AND SOCIETIES continued...

Commemoration Day

The Old Bromsgrovian Tennis Club winning the D’Abernon Cup in 2009 Old Bromsgrovian Tennis Club The Old Bromsgrovian Tennis Club is a relatively new Club available for OBs. Although there is not a regular fixture list, there is an annual National team event known as the D’Abernon Cup which is open to all Public Schools.

A number of Old Bromsgrovians have participated in this prestigious event and in 2009 the team managed to win the final, hosted at Wimbledon.

Unfortunately, they lost in the semifinal this year, but will be looking to regain the title in 2012.

If you are interested in finding out more about the club, then please contact Paul Siviter (Lyttelton 19941999) at paul_sivi@yahoo.co.uk.

In addition to the Old Bromsgrovian Tennis Club, by being an OB you are entitled to join the Public School Old Boys LTA. This club, nicknamed ‘PUBS’, offers a long list of fixtures for all standards across the country and life membership only costs £50.

Several Old Bromsgrovians are already members of this club and have participated in numerous fixtures.

OBs enjoying Commemoration Day With thanks to our Alumni and Friends of the School who attended Commemoration Day on Saturday 2nd July. As usual prize giving and speeches took place in the marquee on Gordon Green, with guest speaker Simon Singh MBE. Over 150 OBs attended a special Pimm’s and Pig Roast Party in the Bromsgrovian Club marquee on Lower Charford and the Old Chapel was open showing a new and evolving exhibition of Bromsgrovian history.

More photographs can be found at http://www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk/obsat-commem/

LOST BROMSGROVIANS Can you help us track down lost OBs? In each magazine we will publish a decade or year group of Old Bromsgrovians that we no longer have any contact with.

If you know of the address or contact details for any of these listed below please email Oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk or telephone 01527 579679 ext 357/366 with details. Thank you.

Lost Bromsgrovians from 1930-1939 (leaving dates) 1930 Brown, RL, Mr (Elmshurst) Fletcher, WR, Mr (Gordon) Howard, GGP, Mr (Lupton) Lewis, AG, Mr (School) Marriot, RFS, Mr (Gordon) Merry, T, Mr (Lupton) Nicholas, WW, Mr (Wendron) Pilkington, LHA, Dr (School) Skelton, Robert, Mr (School) 1931 Badham, JN, Mr (Oakley) Evans, AM, Mr (School) Kemp, MRC, Mr (School) Lee, J, Mr (School) Myers, GG, Mr (School) Myers, S, Mr (School) Owens, J, Mr (Gordon) 1932 Bierman, D, Mr (Gordon) Cochrane, JRG, Mr (Elmshurst) Fowler, KHA, Major (School) Martyn-Smith, R, Mr (Oakley) Simpson, JD, Mr (School)

1933 Brumsen, Michael, Mr (School) Kitiyakara, Chirinanda, Mr (Wendron) Loughton, Michael, Mr (Lupton) Symes, SJ, Mr (Gordon) 1934 Boulton, D, Mr (Oakley) Lees, VD, Mr (School) Macey, JB, Mr (Oakley) Millington, B, Mr (Gordon) Oliver, P, Mr (School) 1935 Hopkins, MR, Mr (Elmshurst) Macey, MG, Mr (Oakley) Ryder, G, Mr (Elmshurst) 1936 Farnsworth, EJ,Mr (School) Fyson, GP, Mr (School) Harris, JD, Mr (School) Nichols, CP, Mr (School) Pratt, J, Mr (Gordon) Rogers, BP, Mr (School)

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE OLD BROMSGROVIAN LODGE NO 5743 In the summer of 1937, Rev D.J. Walters, the Headmaster of the School and himself a Mason, convened a meeting in the School Library at which it was agreed that steps should be taken to found a Masonic Lodge. It was agreed that membership should be restricted to Old Bromsgrovians, present and past members of staff and members of the Governing Body. The purpose of forming the Lodge would be for its members to have a regular opportunity for reviving old associations and renewing friendships formed in their School Days.

On Saturday 8th October 1938 the Lodge was consecrated at the Masonic Hall, King’s Heath with the support of the Bromsgrove Lodge. Shortly afterwards, war broke out and the School was evacuated to Llanwrtyd Wells. During this time, the Lodge still met occasionally with two meetings being held in Birmingham and two in Builth Wells thanks to the generosity of the Loyal Wye Lodge.

1937 Hallam, JEPR, Mr (School) Low, IG, Mr (Wendron) Wilkinson, M, Mr (Gordon) 1938 Duncan, GM, Mr (Wendron) 1939 Birtwhistle, WA, Mr (School) Bryant, Harvey, Mr (School) Campbell, M, Mr (Lupton) Dawson, Stuart, Mr (Gordon) Grounds, Michael, Mr (Elmshurst) Grover, RH, Mr (School) Langford, Norman, Mr (Elmshurst) Marsden, AJ, Mr (Elmshurst) Marsh, EC, Mr (School) Perkins, RB, Mr (Gordon) Sievers, WADE, Mr (Elmshurst) Simpson, GR, Mr (Gordon) Taverner, JC, Mr (School) Whitehouse, JL, Mr (Wendron)

this from happening, the Lodge and the Society of Friends put forward a scheme for it to become a Sixth Form Library and that between them they would provide part of the finance for the scheme.

The Governors accepted the proposal and recorded in their Minutes that in recognition of the generous contribution of the Founders they granted the Lodge the right in perpetuity to use the restored Building for their Masonic Purposes.

On the 12th September 1952 the first meeting was held in the “Old Chapel” and the Lodge continues to meet there today.

It is because of this support that the Lodge survives today and we continue to maintain our close association with Bromsgrove and Loyal Wye, visiting as often as possible. In 1943 the School returned to Bromsgrove and in March 1944 the first meeting at the School was held using the Masters’ Common Room.

It had always been hoped that the Lodge would use the “Old Chapel” for their assemblies. The building had not been used since the dedication of the Memorial Chapel in 1931 and had fallen into disrepair with many influential people urging that it be demolished. To prevent

It is now over 70 years since the Lodge was founded and during that time, it has grown from its small beginnings of eleven Founders to over sixty five members ranging in age from 30 to over 80. It is one of the largest working Lodges in the Province of Worcestershire and looks forward to the future with optimism and confidence.

For further information, please contact the Lodge Secretary: Chris Firminger, 6-8 Church Street, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B61 8DD Tel no: 01527 576667 Email: cvf@firminger.co.uk

BIRTHS, ENGAGEMENTS AND MARRIAGES

Four generations of the Jordan Family

Bill and Tom Jordan

Tom Barnes and Jenna Lea

Bill Jordan (Gordon 1966-1972) is now the proud grandfather of Arnold William, born on the 27th January 2011, weighing in at 6lbs 6oz. Tom Jordan, the baby’s father, was in School House 1992-1997.

Congratulations to Grandad Bill, new Dad and Mum, Tom and Jess.

Tom Barnes Tom Barnes (Elmshurst 1997-2002) recently became engaged to his girlfriend of 6 years, Jenna Lea. Tom is keeping his Bromsgrove School roots close to him at his upcoming wedding as OB Andrew Easton (also a 2002 leaver and Head Boy) will be his best man.

Will and Jack Jordan

Will Jordan (School 1991-1997) recently became engaged to Lisa. They plan to get married in the spring of 2013. His brother, Jack (School 1994-2004) is working as a chef on a luxury private yacht in the South of France.

Jolien Chow on her wedding day

Jolien Chow Simon Bucknall

Simon Bucknall Simon Bucknall (School 1990-1995) and Jenny became the proud parents of their first child, a baby girl, Freya who was born on 25th May 2011. Congratulations to the new parents.

Jolien Chow (2000-2004 Oakley) was recently married in Hawaii and Hermione Tang (Oakley 1999-2004) was her bridesmaid.

Jolien has been working as a trainee actuary in London for the last three years, after graduating from Oxford in 2008. She has met a few Old Bromsgrovians who work in the same company (Towers Watson); Eric Yang (School 2003-2005) now works on the same team as Jolien.

Congratulations to…

Ernesto Hilding Ohlsson (School 1932-1937) turned 92 on 29th

Obituaries

September 2011. He and his wife have attended the last two Old Bromsgrovian events held in New York City where they live.

Mr and Mrs Ohlsson during the Bromsgrove Choir Reception in New York, July 2010 .

Ernesto Ohlsson with pupil Elizabeth Leather in New York last year.

When Ernesto was asked why he came all the way from Buenos Aires to Bromsgrove, he explained that as he was an only child, his parents wanted the best education for him. They researched carefully and came up with Bromsgrove. They took a ship from Buenos Aires to Southampton and visited the school – the trip took 2 weeks. Ernesto did this trip each summer to see his parents.

Every evening on board ship the young people wore formal wear at dinner. Of the 9 weeks vacation, 4 of those were spent in making the trip. For the first 6 months, Ernesto’s mother stayed at a hotel, and was only allowed to have tea with her son for 2 hours twice a month.

Ernesto was knighted by the King of Sweden on August 18th 1971. He spoke admirably of Bromsgrove School where he attended from age 11 until 17.

Roundy Rudell

John Ireland

Anthony (Roundy) Rudell (Elmshurst 1960-1963)

John Ireland (Staff 1959-1990)

The unexpected death of Foundation Trustee, Roundy Rudell (OB), came as a shock to us all. Our sympathy is extended to Ricky and all of Roundy’s family and friends. The hundreds of people at his funeral in Birmingham could each, I am sure, have filled a book with tales of Roundy’s engaging manner, mighty presence and passion for life.

Just before going to print we learnt of the sad news of John Ireland’s death.

John was a much loved colleague, Head of Chemistry and Housemaster of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Elmshurst. He passed away peacefully in hospital on Thursday, 20th October. He was an outstanding servant of the School. We will fondly remember his enormous passion for his subject and his loving care of the boys in his House. He was a gentle giant to all and always approached work here with such a good sense of humour. He retired a stone’s throw away from the School and until very recently his weekly visits to the Common Room were a lovely few minutes for him and us. He was one of the legends of Bromsgrove School. The School has sent its condolences to Pat who was always fully involved in life in Elmshurst and the School generally and to the family.

Roundy was a hugely successful businessman whose love for and knowledge of the jewellery industry was well known, but he was a generous man with the warmest of hearts. His charitable work was extensive, though I will leave it to others to list just how extensive. I only got to know Roundy in recent years, but I can testify first hand to him being somebody who cared desperately about raising the aspirations of and opportunities for young people.

He wanted to give back as a Trustee, and he did: a hundred times over.

When I tell pupils that material success is meaningless unless you are a good employer and somebody who builds bridges, not walls within a community, I need point only to Roundy as the example par excellence.

There have been many tributes paid.

Roundy was very well known in the city of Birmingham and beyond. But to all of us here at Bromsgrove, he will be remembered as a true and loyal friend and an infectiously engaging man. The void is large, but the memories and examples of what it means to live a life that enriches the lives of others are manifest in the man that was Roundy Rudell.

CHRIS EDWARDS Headmaster (A full obituary will also be published in the Bromsgrovian 2011)

A fuller tribute will be printed in the Bromsgrovian 2011.

Obituaries Arthur Moore (Lyttleton 1931-1936)

died 22 September 2010 Arthur (Dinty) Moore lived and farmed in Shelsley Beauchamp, Worcestershire, all his life, growing hops and fruit including apples and blackcurrants. Chickens became an important part of the farm as well as providing turkeys for the Christmas market for over forty-five years.

His father W.L., brother John, a Governor of the School and both his children David (1966-1971) and Ann Banks née Moore (1972-1974) are all OBs. He even met his wife, Gill, because his father-in-law was wearing an OB tie at a dinner. He was a keen cricketer, a member of the 1st XI, and an athlete. He had great affection for Bromsgrove and attended many OB dinners. He enjoyed all country sports though his passion was salmon fishing on the River Wye. At the Thanksgiving service in his local Church, well over 200 people attended to celebrate his life.

Philip J. Hewitt (Lupton 1931-1939)

died 10 March 2011 Philip Hewitt attended Bromsgrove School in the mid 1930s, being one of just thirtyfour day boys at the time. He was heavily involved in all sports, his name being in the Cricket Pavilion and continued this sporting connection throughout his life.

Philip went on to be a Director of Cadbury Cakes. A celebration of his life was held on 22 March 2011 on a wonderful sunny and colourful day and each of the three speakers were warmly applauded as they recounted stories of separate parts of his life.

Colin Shirley Priest (School 1932-1937)

died 2 July 2011 After Colin’s father died when Colin was only 12, he joined his cousins Jack and Michael Green at Bromsgrove School, partly funded by the Masons. Later in life, Colin joined the Masons and Masonry became very important to him as he enjoyed the camaraderie. He was a member of the Old Bromsgrovian Lodge until his death.

His school career was not academic.

Looking through an old report book from School House, there were several notes of punishments received in the early 1930s.

He did however swim for the School something he loved and continued to do until very late in life.

He was a member of the Cadet Force and at the age of 18 joined the British

Expeditionary Force. He was one of the 1000s of men brought off the beaches from Dunkirk. He was demobbed in 1946. He joined the British Legion in 1949 and rejoined in the 1990s. He worked in sales in the Black Country all his life.

Colin lead a rich and happy life – his great loves were his family, gardening, his dogs, shooting and holidays in Rhosneigr, Anglesey. He was married to Mary for close to 60 years and they had a daughter, Libby.

Harvey Bryant (School 1934-1939)

died 26 March 2011 Harvey Bryant was an OB and sometime proprietor of the BMC garage in Bromsgrove High Street. During the late 1950s he took under his wing the Motor Transport Section of the Combined Cadet Force.

David McMullen recalls “On CCF afternoons we had an old Standard car, stripped to its chassis, which we used to work on and race around Middle Charford, when it could be persuaded into reluctant life. When it rained we brewed up in the lean-to behind the armoury and whiled away the time. I’m sure we didn’t have a Platoon Sergeant, but there may have been a Lance Corporal among us to provide a semblance of authority when needed. Field days were a treat; one of them we spent at Harvey’s garage in the High Street and another learning to drive a Land-Rover up and down the hill by the Church at Hagley Hall. I doubt whether we were a credit to the Corps on the latter occasion, when the reviewing brass hat was Major General Offley Wakeman. On another outing the entire MT section went to the MG car club race meeting at Silverstone”.

Cyril Roland Hadley (Elmshurst 1934-1939) died 4 April 2011

Cyril’s education was interrupted by the war. He joined the Tank Corp, participated in the D-Day landings and finally drove his tank from France, through Europe and finally ending up in Italy for convalescence and to sample the local culture. He became a Chartered Accountant and in the 70s bought his own accounting practice with offices around the West Country before retiring to Salcombe in South Devon in 1982.

In 1953 he married Jean Blasdale. They had two sons, Tony and David and the family spent a lot of time sailing and enjoying family holidays in Europe. In the

last years of his life he moved to Sydney, Australia, living in a flat with a beautiful view over the harbour.

Cyril will be remembered for his sharp brain, great wit and relaxed approach to life. He is survived by his wife Jean, sons Tony and David and two grandchildren, Sophie and James.

Geoffrey Pitt (School 1934-1939)

passed away on 22 July 2011 after a short illness. He will be sadly missed by his wife Josephine, daughter Vivien and son Philip Pitt.

Roland Cyril Crompton (Gordon 1937-1942)

passed away on 19 February 2011 He will be greatly missed by his 3 daughters – Ann, Mary and Nina – and his extended family that meant so much to him.

Kenneth George Burridge (Elmshurst 1939-1943)

died on 1 July 2011

Capt. Derek d’Esterre Head VRD JP FRIBA RNR DL (Elmshurst 1939-1942)

died 28 November 2010 Derek Head joined Elmshurst House in January 1939 and so had experience of pre-war Bromsgrove before the School was evacuated to Llanwrtyd Wells on the outbreak of WWII. Derek joined the Navy as a volunteer in 1942 and as a Sub Lieutenant in an MTB a year later.

He was involved in raids on occupied Channel ports and provided a screen for the D-Day landings. In 1945 he took part in an assault on an island held by the Japanese and later was the RN Liaison Officer on board the Dutch cruiser Tromp.

In civilian life he qualified as ARIBA, then FRIBA and worked in the Brighton Borough Surveyor’s Department.

He joined as a partner the Brighton architectural practice of Overton Partners where, developing his naval experience, he became involved in the original design of the Brighton Marina. He went on to become a recognised international authority, writing two books on marinas.

Derek continued to serve in the RNVR and RNR, rising through the ranks. In 1972, he became Captain in command of H.M.S. Sussex. He specialised in intelligence and served for a time as advisor to the Director of Naval Intelligence. As an extension of his naval

Obituaries interests, he became a skilful model maker and a consultant to Christie’s on model ships. Derek’s sense of public duty led him to serve as a magistrate for 20 years, to be Chairman of the Brighton Tax Commission and to be Deputy Lieutenant for East Sussex.

He was married to his wife Anne for 62 years. This felicitous and harmonious union produced three children, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Thanks to Anne’s and his family’s devoted care, Derek was able to be nursed at home and die peacefully in his own bed.

Peter Homes (Gordon 1939-1944) died on 2 December 2010

Edward Robert Lane (School 1940-1945)

passed away 27 September 2011 Edward joined Bromsgrove in 1940, when the School moved to Llanwrtyd Wells during World War II, returning to Bromsgrove in 1943. David J. Walters was Headmaster during this period.

Edward’s claim to fame came in 1946, when Wisdens recorded him achieving jointly the highest batting score with a certain Peter May, who went on to captain the England Cricket team. Edward lived and worked in Herefordshire all of his life and enjoyed a successful career in farming, becoming Chairman of the National Farmers Union for Herefordshire and Chairman of the National Hop Growing Association of his time.

Derek A. R. Naylor (Gordon 1941-1945)

passed away October 2011

Geoffrey Pike (School 1941-1946) died 1 August 2011

John Tudor (Gordon 1944 – 1949) died late March 2011

Hugh Seager (School 1949-1954) passed away late 2010

John Beharrell (School 1951-1955)

passed away on 14 December 2010

Christopher David Bishop (Gordon, 1957-1962) died in August 2011

Jonathan Williams (Cookes 1964-1969)

died 8 February 2011 Jon Williams, Old Bromsgrovian and Past Master of the Bromsgrove Lodge, died on Tuesday, 8 February 2011 aged 57.

Jon was initiated into the London Irish Rifles Lodge No. 2312 and became a Joining Member of the Bromsgrove Lodge on 19 April 1991 as a Master Mason.

He was a dedicated member from the start, finally rising to Worshipful Master in 2005-2006. He never stinted in his duties to the Lodge despite living in Cornwall and holding down a most demanding job in shop fitting at locations all over the country.

Leighton John Evans (Cobham/Cookes 1970-1979)

died February 2010 Leighton thoroughly enjoyed his time at Bromsgrove School. Whilst at Cobham House he developed a love of gardening, growing the school flower and vegetables in the patch near the boarding house.

Many will remember Leighton in a leather corset and on crutches for some of his time at the Junior School as he suffered from Osteo Myelitis. He was determined to get better and developed good upper body strength whilst on crutches and went on to play rugby for Walters and the school and joined the cadets.

Leighton attended Greenwich University and obtained a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering and later attended the University of North London where he achieved a conversion degree in Law. He was a Member of the Association of Project Managers and an Associate of the Institute of Civil Engineers. He worked on the project management of the Channel Tunnel and the Jubilee Line extension and other high profile projects.

Leighton lived most of his working life in Kent and worked in London and locally.

He was 48 years old when he died of lung cancer. He was a non-smoker. A much loved Son, Brother and Uncle.

Ellis John Ormerod (Former Headmaster of the Prep School)

died 20 August 2010 John was born in Cornwall but was taken to Australia in 1958. Conscription in the form of National Service still existed in Australia in the 1960s and John served for two years in the army, spending part of this time in Vietnam. He subsequently studied for a degree in Biology and decided he would make his career in teaching.

Armed with his degree, John decided he should travel and see some of the world before settling down. However, at the Royal Wolverhampton School, he became so engrossed in his job and his desire to climb the ladder that he stayed. He worked at various schools in the Birmingham area before being appointed Headmaster of Bromsgrove Lower School, as the Preparatory School was then known. John was an energetic and enthusiastic head, dedicated to the education and care of the pupils in the School. Pupil numbers grew whilst he was at the School and John was proud and pleased to be able to help plan the building of the Llanwrtyd Centre.

John was also a very keen sportsman – his great love being cricket. He played for various clubs and is particularly remembered by those who knew him for his bowling skills at Harborne CC. John is survived by his wife Jane, children Emily and Matthew and grandson Alfie.

Full obituaries will be published for the final time in the Bromsgrovian 2011.

From 2012 onwards it has been decided to include all obituaries in the alumni newsletter, and a list of any Bromsgrovians that have passed away in each termly News Review.

Forthcoming events – all welcome to attend 2011 Tuesday, 29th November Wednesday, 30th November Thursday, 1st December School Production – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – The Artrix, Bromsgrove (tickets available from www.artrix.co.uk)

Can you help with the Head of Year Sessions/ Bromsgrovian Career Database?

To provide our Lower Sixth with an insight into the ‘real world’ and to enrich their understanding of ‘life after Bromsgrove’, we are calling on all OBs who would like to share their life experiences with the pupils to volunteer to speak in our Head of Year Sessions.

We are looking to give the Lower Sixth an understanding of how you, as individuals, have achieved your success and the skill and attributes you feel played a vital role in such achievements. Given hindsight, what advice would you have liked to have heard at Sixth Form that would have helped you in the life/career/paths you took.

2012

We would love to hear from a range of speakers from all professions. We are also interested in offering the pupils in Lower Sixth information about aspects of life other than just work.

If you have experiences to share of charity project, expeditions or a particular triumph, we are hoping you too will be willing to speak to the pupils.

Thursday, 9th February After work get together for OBs in the Birmingham area at the Chameleon Restaurant & Bar, 1 Victoria Square, Hill Street, Birmingham B1 1BD

For those OBs who are not “speakers”, we are also trying to get a reference database together of people who are willing to talk one-on-one with a pupil. Again this doesn’t have to be career-oriented, it could be that you live in a country they want to travel to, had a particular GAP experience in which they are interested, have organised expeditions, etc. If you are interested in doing this, please let us know the areas in which you are able to assist.

Monday, 12th March Evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral with School choir

Please contact Jenny Bossard at jbossard@bromsgrove-school.co.uk or on 01527 579679 ext. 357 if you are interested in helping with any of the above.

Saturday, 24th March

Choral Society Concert - Birmingham Town Hall (Vivaldi Gloria, Handel Anthems) Saturday, 14th April Bromsgrovian Club President’s Dinner, Worcester College, Oxford University Wednesday, 2nd May Bromsgrove School Annual Dinner – Reform Club, London Wednesday, 9th May T20 Cricket vs. School Wednesday, 27th June 50-Over Cricket vs. School Monday, 17th September Multi-Sports Day (netball, hockey, tennis, basketball, squash, golf) and post match buffet.

September (date TBC) 1996-2006 Leavers’ Reunion – Bromsgrove School If you would like further details about any of these events please email Oldbromsgrovians@bromsgroveschool.co.uk

TELL US A STORY Anthony Walters (School, 1952-1955) sent in a wonderful suggestion: “Because the School has changed so much over the years, there must be a wealth of interesting, humorous and quirky stories that people have to tell and it would be a shame to lose them. Could we ask people to send them in?”

Well, yes we can. These stories will be built into an anecdotal history of the School that should be of interest across the generations. So please send in your recollections – be it a short story or a long saga. We will feature these tales in future Newsletters.

As an example, Jenny Bossard (nee Gricks, Walters, 1972-1974) received an email from Richard Clarke (Wendron, 1950-1954) with the following little anecdote about her father (Dennis Gricks, Wendron 1946-1951): “One night in the dorm., while we youngsters were waiting for your father, who was fearsome to us and very strict, to come in, one of the others bet me two shillings (the standard pocket money for two weeks!) if I would tear-up one of your father’s collars.

We had to wear loose, stiff collars and this was one of the nights for replacement clean ones. Honour bound I had to accept the challenge with much trepidation, and thought hard! When your father entered I asked if I could carry out the deed and pay him a shilling. Searching his bag for an old collar, he agreed. I suppose that was my first lesson in commerce: I hope both shillings were well spent.”

There must be lots more stories that people can remember that are so descriptive of the times as well as being fascinating or funny (or both!).

Please send all entries to Oldbromsgrovians@bromsgrove-school.co.uk.

Bromsgrove School, Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B61 7DU 01527 579679

www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk