The Bugle - Spring 2017 by Bolton School Development Office

THE

Old Boltoniansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association 1895 - 2017

BUGLE

Spring 2017

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

CONTENTS Stay in Touch

Bolton School Merchandise

Messages David Shaw, President of the Old Boys’ Association

Philip Britton, Headmaster

The Mail Bag

Continuing Support

Bolton School Wine

School News Boys’ Division Inspection

‘7’ Class Reunion

Charity Walk

Tillotson Lecture 2016: Chris Eatough

Dr Turner appears on Countryfile

Andy McGinty wins water polo award

Old Boys’ cricket

Patterdale Hall wins award

Remembrance Assembly

Farewell to Julia Bates

Old Boys’ Features The Bolton Alumni Network

OBA Ambassadors

Inspiring the Next Generation

Alumni Authors

Andy and Kirsty’s Big Day

Krishnan Patel – charity work in Uganda

Bilal Barkatali – a life built on great foundations

Events Old Boltonians’ Annual Dinner

Photo Wall

Sports OBAFC Report

Water Polo Reunion

Old Boltonians’ Golf Society Report

Haseeb Hameed – batting for England

Busary Golf Day

Destinations of Leavers – 2016

Old Boys’ News News of Old Boys

Times Past

70 Years of Togetherness

Freemasonry

Mini Reunions

Archives Ask the Archivist Looking Back

STAY IN TOUCH ‘Like’ our Facebook page for event invites, School news and memories: search Bolton School - Old Boys and Old Girls (Official)

Connect with fellow Old Boys on LinkedIn: connect with Bolton School Alumni and join the Bolton School Group Follow Alumni and School news via Twitter: @BoltonSchool / @BoltonSchAlumni

T: 01204 434718 E: development@boltonschool.org

THE TEAM

Read regular blogs from pupils and staff from across the campus: http:// boltonschool.me/

Laura Firth Head of Development

Follow bolton_school_foundation and use #BSAlumni to share your memories and photos Watch short films posted on our You Tube site: http://www.youtube.com/user/ boltonschoolmedia View photos of Alumni events at https:// www.flickr.com/photos/bsalumni/albums

Trevor Pledger Old Boys’ Liaison Officer

Frances Johnson Development Assistant

Kathryn O’Brien Alumni and Development Assistant

Archana Patel Alumni Officer

Jenny Salerno Development Officer

Visit the Old Girls and Old Boys section of the School website at www.boltonschool.org for event photographs, Alumni career profiles, news of Old Boys, an up-to-date events calendar, to update your contact details and more.

BOLTON SCHOOL MERCHANDISE School has an Online Merchandise Store, selling all of the items previously sold through the Development Office, and many more. A variety of items are available for purchase, from Old Boy cufflinks and ties to Bolton School pens, iPad cases and photo frames. All profits made from the sale of merchandise go directly to the School Bursary Fund, which helps make a Bolton School education open to all academically gifted pupils, irrespective of their family’s financial situation. Orders are usually delivered within five working days, and overseas delivery is available.

Lives Remembered

In Memoriam

Yellow Pull-Out Section

The Boltonian Order Form

Notice of the 2017 OBA AGM

OBA AGM Proxy Vote

Minutes of the 2016 OBA AGM

OBA Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2016

iii

Alumni Events Calendar

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DVD Order Form

Bolton School Pens

Snugg iPad Case

Old Boy Cufflinks

Bolton School Photo Frame

To order your items, please visit: www.boltonschoolmerchandise.org or call 08450 504015

Front cover picture: The window above the door leading out into the Boys’ Division Quad, from the A Corridor in the North Wing

Newsletter Spring 2017

WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT I am very pleased to be able to send this message not only to the many of you whom I taught over my 38 years in the Physics Department and the many others whom I met through the Association both before and after my retirement, but also those whom I have never yet met. I would like to encourage all of you to be involved in the events which we hold, or to make contact with fellow Old Boltonians through the medium of The Bugle or via the Development Office. It has been one of the pleasures of my life to have known and still to know so many of you. All being well I expect to be at all of the events in my year of office and would like to renew acquaintance with as many of you as possible. If anyone wishes to make contact with me please do so via the Development Office at School.

Since I completed my stint as Old Boys’ Liaison Officer in 2009 I have continued to make regular visits to School and to Old Boys’ events and I have been pleased to note the way that the School has been developing. The atmosphere and commitment among the pupils is much as I remember it when I first came to the School 52 years ago. I would just like to give a plug to the next Annual Dinner which will come in December at the end of my tenure. I have secured the services as Guest Speaker of Kevin Knibbs, who started his career as a History teacher here and made his way up through the hierarchy of pastoral and administrative posts before leaving to become Deputy Head of Hampton School where he was soon promoted to the post of Headmaster. Many will remember him for his involvement in running the 1st XI Football team. Personally I would like to see, at the dinner, tables representing Harwood House, Fell walking and Badminton which is part of my reason for giving this early plug. Finally I would like to wish all of you the very best in the months to come. David Shaw

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEADMASTER

do, but on what difference it makes to the boys in terms of

One of the most exciting features of the

to be excellent once again. Of special note will be an off the

current engagement of the Old Boys’

record comment made by the Chief Inspector that he had

their development and their achievements. The team spoke to many boys, dipped into lessons, experienced the active life of the School and met with my colleagues. They were immensely impressed with Bolton School and those of us hearing the feedback felt justifiably proud to be part of it as we were found

Association with the School is all those members who return

never seen a school with such an engaged and involved Old

to the School in some capacity to give of their time to current

Boys’ Association. For those interested the full report can be

boys. Sharing your talents and the tales of your lives with the

found at http://www.boltonschool.org/inspection-report/

boys is invaluable: it can inspire and educate, stimulate thought and widen horizons. Since I last wrote, Chris Eatough, World

Those boys who left School in 2009 at the end of my first year

Champion mountain biker, has given the Tillotson Lecture and

will now have turned 25 and I intend to write to all those we

Nigel Short, the Chess Grandmaster, has been to School to

can to wish you well and to hear a little about what you are

play an exhibition simultaneous game against 24 pupils. Both

doing and, at that stage in your lives, what part of School life

inspired with their stories and their excellence. Aside from these

has made most difference to your lives. I will also contact the

visits there have been career visits and talks and much else

Class of 2012 to hear, as you have turned 21, how your higher

besides. If you feel you would like to engage with School in

education or first years of work have developed. It is very

this way then please do drop us a line: some Old Boys ‘Skype’

important that we fulfil the School’s aim of ‘sending boys out

into School where travel is an issue. Mentoring, providing role

into the world equipped to make a difference for good’. Just

models and inspiring the next generation are a version of the

how well we equipped you, in your view, at the milestones of 21

Old Boys’ network fit for the modern age.

and 25 will help us shape current School life.

At the end of Autumn Term the School was inspected, having

As ever, I look forward to meeting several of you during our

been previously found excellent in 2010 (the highest grade).

normal round of events this year and wish you all well in your

The process this time focused very strongly not on what we

various endeavours. Philip Britton

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

THE MAIL BAG A selection of emails and letters received since the last edition of The Bugle was published. Please send in your feedback to the Development Office by post or by email with the subject MAIL BAG – there is a Bolton School themed prize for the writer of the Star Letter in each issue!

STAR LETTER The Tuck Shop

er bore no The Tuck Shop which I rememb of decorously h rap tog resemblance to the pho Autumn 2016 the of 30 e queuing boys on pag edition of The Bugle. n’s wife) ran Mrs Taylor (Herbie the groundsma irs room of nsta dow k bac a the Tuck Shop from lived. This bie Her and she the cottage in which e close quit el, Lev Top was at the edge of the this ably ceiv Con s. bath to the old swimming in the n dow t shu was se rpri entrepreneurial ente the quit long had I time late 1950s, by which ket outlet of scene. Perhaps it was a black mar I doubt it! but e, war una which the School was Eddie Benson (1948-1956)

Forty Years On Reading the article on the School song Forty Years On in the Archives section of the Autumn 2016 edition of The Bugle reminded me of an occasion when the song was recorded by the BBC with the whole School singing in the Hall in (I think) 1956. One of the then English masters in the School (his name escapes me) was involved with the BBC Radio dramatised serialisation of the children’s book Wings Over Tewkesley, which was written in 1954 by Reginald Taylor. The master, who I think might have been an actor in the cast, arranged for the opening tune for the serial to be Forty Years On, and I remember singing it, along with the rest of the School, when it was recorded. I can never hear the song without thinking of the last day of the School year when, I believe, we used to sing it before breaking up for the summer vacation. Or was that prizegiving? Ah, memory ... Mike Ainscough (1955-1957)

Ron Booth The article about Ron Booth failed to mention that whilst he devoted much time to the cricket team, at the end of the day and whatever the hour, he had to catch the train home to Preston as I don’t think he ever drove. He didn’t draw back when bowling in the annual first team match against the masters as he would produce a flurry of ‘box crunchers’. There was little respite when Peter Atkinson joined the staff as his left arm pacers also whistled round your waist.

Tuck Shop in the 1950s

The other master who took the cricket team was Latin teacher Leonard Roe. I remember one late afternoon at the nets he was trying to teach me how to on-drive. He took my bat and asked me to bowl a slowish ball to him. He missed it completely and it hit his middle stump whereupon his excuse was that I had pitched the ball ‘right on my blind spot’! John Brian ‘JB’ Holt (1950-1959)

Newsletter Spring 2017

CONTINUING SUPPORT As the Bolton School Foundation embarks upon its second century, it is thriving. Both Divisions are full, and the talent within them is exceptional, as evidenced in the glowing inspection reports recently achieved by both Divisions. Lord Leverhulme’s founding principle for the School – that it should offer bright children an outstanding education, whatever their background – remains at the heart of our ethos today. Our Bursary Fund was set up over 20 years ago by the School’s Governing Body, to ensure that the open access experienced during the Direct Grant and Assisted Places eras was able to be enjoyed by future generations of Boltonians. This forward thinking has enabled us to build a Bursary Fund of £25 million, making our bursary scheme one of the most generous in the country. In the past academic year, £1.2 million was raised for the Bursary Fund, including almost £650,000 donated by Old Boys and Old Girls, and £35,000 through gifts from Alumni and friends who remembered the School in their wills. This extraordinary generosity has enabled the Fund to support a record number of pupils with financial assistance: during the past academic year, 359 bright boys and girls were given the chance to capitalise upon all of the opportunities a Bolton School education provides.

Yet despite this success, our Bursary Fund remains unable to meet demand, and, for almost every bursary place awarded, another equally-deserving child must be turned away. The 100 Campaign for Bolton School Bursaries was launched in 2015, during the School’s centenary celebrations, to try to bridge this gap. Its ambitious, long-term aim is to grow the Bursary Fund so that it will enable us to provide genuine open access here at Chorley New Road, of the type last enjoyed during the Direct Grant and Assisted Places eras. If you share with us the belief that our wonderful School should continue to remain accessible to all, then please consider supporting the 100 Campaign for Bursaries however you can. If you would like to pledge your support, whether by making a regular donation, or by remembering the School in your will, the Development Office would be delighted to assist you. For more information, please telephone the Development Office on 01204 434718, or email development@boltonschool. org. The School’s outstanding record of bursarial support has only been made possible by the generosity of our Old Boys and Old Girls. Thank You, sincerely, for your sustained support for the School: your gifts will ensure that Lord Leverhulme’s founding ethos will continue to underpin all that we do.

THE BOLTON SCHOOL WINE COLLECTION The Girls’ Division Parents’ Association launched The Bolton School Wine Collection to mark the 100/500 anniversaries; this is an exclusive wine selection carefully selected in partnership with T Wright Wine of Horwich. There are six wines in the collection, all priced at £9.95 per bottle: a Pinot Grigio, a Sauvignon Blanc, a Chardonnay, a Shiraz, a Merlot and a White Zinfandel. Wines are available by the case (6 bottles) at a discounted price of £56.75 in any bottle combination you would like. Delivery is free (minimum order one case) throughout the Bolton area, and all profits will be donated to the 100 Campaign for Bursaries. For more information please e-mail bsfwines2015@gmail.com or to place your order, please visit www.twrightwine.co.uk/13030

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

SCHOOL NEWS It’s official: Bolton School Boys’ Division is Excellent! Following an inspection in December 2016, Bolton School Boys’ Division has been awarded the top rating of ‘excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. In a report heavy on superlatives the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements was applauded.

Praise was accorded to teachers who invite challenge and encourage pupils’ curiosity and are rewarded with concentration, focus and hard work. The range of sporting, musical and drama opportunities on offer – and the boys’ achievements in these areas – was also acknowledged.

Headmaster Philip Britton reflected: “This is a truly outstanding report that identifies key strengths right across the curriculum. Our levels of academic attainment are noted … and the quality of our extracurricular offer was also commended, along with the personal development of boys. The report recognises our aim to develop in each boy an inquisitiveness and compassion which will enable them to go out into the world and to make a difference.”

The report concluded by asserting that “by the time pupils leave School they are adaptable, resilient and flexible. They are mature, emotionally and academically developed young men, with strong personal skills, and a self-confidence cloaked in modesty.” Old Boys reading this will surely agree that Bolton School provides a foundation for adult life that is second to none.

‘7’ CLASS REUNION Calling all 1947, 1957, 1967, 1977, 1987, 1997 and 2007 leavers! We look forward to welcoming these year groups and former staff back to School for a Reunion on Saturday 13th May, from 11.30am-4.30pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to catch up with old friends, enjoy a

traditional school dinner and take a tour round School to see what has changed since you were a pupil here – and what hasn’t! Tickets cost £15 for adults and £5 for children under 12 and will include welcome and farewell drinks, lunch in the Boys’ Dining Hall and a memento of the day. Please spread the word and persuade your classmates to come along to what promises to be a very enjoyable trip down memory lane!

£10,000 raised for charity At the end of the Summer term 2016 around 650 pupils took part in a 12-mile sponsored return walk from the School to the top of Rivington Pike. The boys collectively walked over 6,000 miles and in doing so met their ambitious target of raising £10,000. In recognition of the School’s 500-year anniversary £500 has been donated to each of 20 charities nominated by the boys themselves. Well done!

The boys reach their windswept destination!

SAVE THE DATE! Our next Scottish Dinner will be held at the University of Edinburgh on Friday 5th May and the next Cumbria Dinner will be held at the Lindeth Howe Hotel on Friday 16th June. Do come and join us! Old Boys are also welcome at the Friends of Bolton School Dinner to be held in the Arts Centre at School on Friday 30th June.

Newsletter Spring 2017

World Champion delivers Tillotson lecture

Chris Eatough gave the 2016 Tillotson Lecture on the subject of ‘Long Distance Learning’

Chris presented the Headmaster with his 2005 World Championship jersey as a gift to the School

Old Boy Chris Eatough (1986-1990) returned to School in November to give the 2016 Tillotson Lecture. Chris is a former professional mountain bike racer who won the World Championships in 24-hour solo mountain bike racing six times. He has also won five USA national titles and competed all over the world. Chris reminisced about his time at Bolton School and acknowledged how it had given him the opportunity to combine his academic studies with his passion for sport. He excelled at everything: football, biathlon, water polo, swimming, track and field and tennis and represented the School many times. Year 6 pupils from the Junior Boys’ and Junior Girls’ Schools were treated to a talk from Chris

Chris went on to study at Clemson University in the US, where he discovered mountain biking. During his lecture he described the highs and lows of this gruelling sport and the techniques he developed to stay ahead of the competition. Chris has now retired from his 14-year mountain bike racing career. However, his passion for bikes continues – he has implemented a public bike sharing transportation network in Washington DC and is currently working on a similar project in Maryland where he lives with his wife and two young children.

Chris found time to meet up with some old classmates, L-R: Jon Marsden, Richard Washington, Chris and Ian Kelly (all Class of 1993)

Searching through the archives prior to Chris’ visit to School, the Headmaster had discovered that he had been presented with Half Colours during his time as a pupil. In honour of his sporting achievements since then, at the end of the lecture Mr Britton presented him with honorary Full Colours.

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

Dr Turner demonstrates conkers chemistry Chemistry teacher Dr Kristy Turner appeared on Countryfile’s Autumn Special to explain the process of extracting acetone from conkers. Dr Turner combines teaching at Bolton School with lecturing at the University of Manchester and it was there that she was approached to describe how acetone was produced during the First World War, when there was a shortage of this vital ingredient in the propellant cordite used to make shells and bullets for use on the front lines. Dr Turner demonstrated the fermentation and distillation process in a woodland laboratory, using conkers that had been crushed by Boys’ Division volunteers and equipment found in the School labs.

Dr Turner and Countryfile presenter Naomi Wilkinson demonstrate a fascinating and unusual use for conkers

Water polo coach receives Coach of the Year award Boys’ Division Water Polo Coach Andy McGinty has won this year’s British Swimming Water Polo Coach of the Year Award. Andy divides his time between Bolton School and the City of Manchester, and has also done international duty with the ESSA national side and the GB U19 Water Polo Squad. He has overseen the Bolton School water polo teams’ defence Andy in his role as coach of their national titles this year, following their hat-trick victory in all three age brackets of the English Schools’ National Championships in the 2014-15 season. The U13, U15 and U17 teams all emerged victorious in their age brackets in 2016 to continue the School’s two-year winning streak. Bolton School is the only school to have held all three Andy receives his award at the British national ESSA titles simultaneously. Swimming Awards night

Old Boys’ Cricket raises funds for Bursaries A cricket match between two teams captained by two Old Boys and largely comprising former pupils raised £75 for the School’s Bursary Fund. The ‘Dukes’, led by former pupil Peter Labbett (1962-1968), beat the ‘Outcasts’ team, led by Steve Ramsden (1956-1963), by six wickets.

Old Boy Peter Labbett hands over a cheque for the Bursary Fund to Head of Games Mr Fernside

Newsletter Spring 2017

Top award for busy outdoor learning centre Patterdale Hall, the adventure learning centre in the Lake District owned by Bolton School, has achieved The Association of Heads of Outdoor Education Centres (AHOEC) prestigious Gold Standard Award. All aspects of the centre were measured – from administration and communication, facilities and food, to the quality of the learning and adventure and its educational validity – and received an overall assessment of ‘Excellent’. The award puts Patterdale Hall in the top 10% in the UK, with only 50 centres out of 500 holding this title.

Tributes to Old Boys in Remembrance Assembly Following this year’s Remembrance Assembly, in which tribute was paid to the courage, resourcefulness and heroism of those Old Boys who had served during two World Wars, Headmaster Philip Britton unveiled a new plaque commemorating the life of Private James Rutter, an Old Boy who lost his life whilst serving in France and whose name had been inexplicably omitted from the memorial boards that record all those that lost their lives in war. The plaque also recorded the names of two Old Boys who are on the memorial boards, but actually survived the War: EW Harris (who died in 1957) and CB Pitblado (who died in 1974).

The Headmaster unveils a plaque correcting errors on the Memorial Boards

Besides being utilised heavily by Bolton School pupils, the centre, situated on an 80-acre estate, is rented out, along with instructors, by other schools, colleges, universities, charities and businesses. It can cater for up to 70 guests who can undertake a wide range of activities including sailing, kayaking, mountaineering, abseiling, canoeing, bush-craft, archery and camping. If your family, group or organisation would like to consider using Patterdale Hall, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the staff at the centre via www.patterdalehall.org.uk.

Farewell to Julia Bates In January 2017 Bolton School bade farewell to its Head of Development, Julia Bates, who left to take up the post of Director of Development at Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral, after almost ten years at Chorley New Road. Julia joined the School in December 2007 as Development Manager, after previously working at HM Treasury as a Policy Adviser. She was subsequently appointed as Head of Development in December 2008, since when she has led on the fundraising for the Riley Sixth Form Centre, completed in September 2013, and, more recently, on the 100 Campaign for Bolton School Bursaries, which seeks to establish genuine openaccess at the School. During Julia’s tenure, almost £10.5 million has been raised for capital projects and for the Bursary Fund, a remarkable sum which reflects her outstanding commitment to the School and to its pupils. The School’s Clerk and Treasurer, Cathy Fox, writes: “Julia has made an extraordinary impact on the School’s fundraising activities, the benefits of which will be felt for many years to come. She will be greatly missed.”

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

OLD BOYS’ FEATURES Our Old Boy and Old Girl network has a huge reach, spanning the globe with over 10,000 active members. School is looking to allow you to make the most of those contacts, by launching, in May 2017, the Bolton Alumni Network, exclusively for Old Girls and Old Boys of Bolton School to use. This exciting venture will transform the way in which former pupils can stay in touch with each other, as well as with School. You will be able to log in to the platform using your LinkedIn or Facebook profile, so the process should only take a couple of minutes and is completely free of charge. This free service for all Old Boys and Old Girls will mean you can: • connect directly online with your old School friends and share memories; • have exclusive access to an online directory of fellow Old Boltonian and Old Girl contacts complete with their current professional information; • seek out and contact directly those Alumni who work in your industry, for advice or mentoring assistance; • offer advice and help to younger Alumni in your field, who are trying to establish their own careers; • use the Network as an employers’ recruitment tool, advertising job vacancies to a pool of talented, well-educated professionals (who all come with an inbuilt Chorley New Road reference!); • get the inside lowdown on the latest job opportunities for which Alumni are recruiting; • receive the latest news about upcoming Alumni events and School news.

The Bolton Alumni Network will launch in May: register your email address with the Development Office now, to ensure you can join with other Old Boys and Old Girls and get connected straight away!

OBA Ambassadors The Old Boys’ Association (OBA) Committee plans to harness the enthusiasm and contacts of some of the younger Alumni in the run up to the Association’s 125th Anniversary, in 2020, by creating roles for a number of ‘Ambassadors’. Their remit will be to raise the profile of the OBA within their peer group, and to plan an integral role in shaping the OBA as a vibrant business networking community. Old Boys Richard Washington (1986-1993), Irfan Ravat (1992-1999), Mike Shaw (1981-1988), Adam Syddall (1984-1998), Chris Eatough (Class of 1993) and Paul Wheatcroft (1988-1995) have already been recruited as Ambassadors by the Committee, who would be delighted to hear from any other Old Boys who would be interested in learning more about this role. Please contact the OBA Secretary, Jon Twist, via the Development Office, for more details.

Newsletter Spring 2017

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION Old Boys studying and working in a variety of professions continue to offer their assistance to the current generation of Bolton School boys, sharing professional expertise and offering guidance. The Development Office and the Careers Department have been delighted to work together to welcome these Alumni back to School for the benefit of pupils throughout the Divisions.

Economic insights from Bank of England Old Boy Paul Alexander (2002-2009), who works for the Bank of England, returned to School to talk to pupils in the Boys’ Division.

Paul gave an insider’s view of the Bank of England

Paul gave some useful advice to four Sixth Form boys taking part in the Bank of England’s Target 2.0 Challenge, a competition which gives students aged 16 to 18 the opportunity to act as the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee, assessing economic conditions and then setting the interest rate to meet the Government’s target of 2.0%. He then spoke to a larger group of pupils about his career: after leaving Bolton School he read Business, Economics and Finance at Loughborough University, followed by postgraduate study at the University of Nottingham, an internship and the Bank of England Graduate Scheme. He went on to give some fascinating facts about the Bank of England, and what his job there involves, before engaging in one of his favourite topics: the financial crisis and its aftermath – a very thoughtprovoking afternoon for the boys studying Business and Economics!

Media and Digital Media Day Pupils from both Divisions were joined by boys and girls from St Joseph’s School in Horwich to find out more about the wide range of careers available in the field of media and digital media.

job interviews. He emphasised the physical and social benefits of sports and described some of the fascinating ones he has reported on and tried out – including Quidditch, Bog Snorkelling and Worm Charming!

Sarah Jones, Deputy Head of Media at Coventry University and a former journalist and TV presenter, gave a keynote speech on the subject of immersive media and virtual reality. She also described some of the varied routes that can lead into working in this fascinating field.

Old Boy Mike Lodmore (1980-1987) works for dock10 TV studios at Media City in Salford. He led a workshop about broadcast engineering, allowing pupils to set up a Old Boy Mike Lodmore setting up filming equipment with pupils from miniature TV studio to St Joseph’s School enable them to learn about the equipment and how it works, and answered many of their eager questions.

Sports presenter Mike Bushell with Boys’ Division pupils

Mike Bushell, a sports presenter on BBC Breakfast, spoke about his career and how he had worked for newspapers before getting his TV break. He encouraged pupils to go out and get life experiences to talk about during

A variety of other talks on media and digital media related subjects rounded off a very interesting and stimulating day.

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

ALUMNI AUTHORS The Idea Generator by Chris Thomason (1967-1977) Pearson £14.99 ISBN 978 1 292 15601 9 Chris Thomason has led a varied life since leaving School in 1977. A chartered and mechanical engineer by training, he has worked in automotive and metallurgical fields in the UK and South Africa. However, it is from his life as a business innovator in Australia and back in the UK since 1999 that he has generated the raw materials and inspiration for this handbook for those involved in creative thinking in any field. His passionate, even evangelical, belief in better ways of thinking come through in this eruditely and succinctly written guide to his methods for the generation of ideas by answering his so-called Killer Questions. Simply and straightforwardly structured, this is an offering for the modern age – just ten chapters over just 170 pages linked to templates available to download. These are available to facilitate, indeed enhance, the 15 tools that make up the eponymous Idea Generator. Initially, Chris explains what is needed from the reader for them to become an effective user of the approach, and its implicit whole way of thinking, thereby gaining the mindset needed to commit to achieve the desired outcome. The approach can work for middle and senior employees, indeed anyone who has ideas, invention or innovation in their job description. We are then persuaded what is now the drawback in what have become traditional ways of creating winning ideas – the 14-fold debunking of brainstorming

Tea at the Cavendish by Ronald D Edge (1939-1947)

Published by www.EdgeFamilyPublishing.com ISBN 0996337938 Ron Edge, now in his late 80s, wrote this autobiography for the benefit of his grandchildren but it is worthy of a wider readership. It consists of hundreds of fairly short reminiscences and anecdotes concerning his life as a High Energy Nuclear Physicist all over the world. He had humble beginnings in pre-war Bolton and attended School through the war years, winning an Open Scholarship to Cambridge soon after the end of the War. The attraction of the book for me lay in its pen pictures of life as a scientist in Cambridge where he went on to gain his PhD and then wherever the opportunities of fellow researchers and advanced equipment took him. We learn of the air of improvisation needed to create the apparatus to carry out early research in a topic which has become possible only through multi-million pound sophistication. Way back in the early 1950s you had to be able to ‘make do and mend’, and you had to take risks such as timing your run across the path of an unguarded

is a joy. Being of similar age, I was particularly delighted by the suggestion that brainstorming is 65 years old and deserves to be retired like so many of that age! Chris’ approach to generating and developing the best ideas is then to offer the bipartite concept of The Killer Question (KQ) and “Querencia”. A KQ is a bold ambitious question – meaningful, pragmatic, deliverable, focused at ones superior’s aims, powerfully directed – that needs answering and that the reader shouldn’t fear answering as they would in traditional business practice – it can often have the answer ‘I don’t know’. Querencia is an intriguing concept based on the Spanish word meaning ‘the place of safety to which the bull retreats before launching its final charge’. If this book works, the reader believes that from Querencia the only way is unswervingly forward, thereby answering the KQ with success. The main part of the handbook for the converted is then a three-layered framework each with five tools aimed at issue solving, new opportunities and organic growth. The reader is then taken through Idea Generation via cutely titled, refreshingly clearly explained and implicitly justified tools. Confidently and intentionally, no real world case studies are presented, which lack of evidence some might see as a weakness. However, neat banks of examples are on offer to persuade the reader that using the tools in answering KQs from Querencia will work. Chris propounds the view that the Idea Generator is three things: “a book you read, a process you adopt, a person you become”. This is an insightful, practical offering from which anyone interested in or tasked with their organisation’s problem solving, and who is willing to look at alternatives to current methods debunked by the author, can learn. For such, Chris would hope to have the persuasive drive to change business attitude. Certainly read the book! Consider the process, though just cherry picking from the tools could help any department/ situation that is in need of new thinking! Judge if a new business person has been created – the reader will certainly be a more inquisitive and entertained one. Martin Wadsworth (Boys’ Division Staff, 1974-2006) pulsed beam of neutrons to reach the other side of the lab. There are personal reminiscences concerning many famous scientists such as Dirac, Perutz, Frisch, Searle, Pauling, Watson and Crick and Feynmann. Ron Edge takes us to Australia where, as a young man, he set up and operated the Harwell Synchrotron that had been given by the British Government to the new Australian National University in Canberra, then in its infancy as a city. His next move was to the USA where he chose the University of South Carolina where he built up his expertise. Non-physicists should not be put off from reading this book as it gives so many insights into the nature of the places where he worked, as well as the need to take shortterm opportunities to work wherever the latest equipment was. Thus we are taken in the USA to Los Alamos, Brookhaven, Oak Ridge, Stanford and Caltech as well as to Russia, China, Japan, Germany. We learn of his experiences piloting light planes, of voyages in liners to Australia and across the Pacific. He tells of his efforts in physics education, running a local TV programme in South Carolina bringing science to children, organising US teams for the Physics Olympiads, writing on his ‘string and sealing wax’ experiments for children. He tells of his lifelong passion for bell-ringing and folk dancing and everywhere he goes he makes connections: old Cambridge acquaintances and fellow Old Boltonians. You can easily pick up and put down this book as it is divided into short sections. I can thoroughly recommend it. David Shaw (Boys’ Division Staff, 1964-2002)

Newsletter Spring 2017

YORK – THE GREAT CITY

HALSGROVE TITLE INFORMATION

Chris Gee

York - The Great City

George VI observed that the history of York is the history of England and thisbuilding’s The single phrase most accurately captures the appeal of this great city. York is one white

plaster is

the few cities in the British Isles that has retained so much from earlier times. the only bright By Chris of Gee (1983-1990) At its heart it remains a medieval city, but there is clear evidence too of Roman,

element in the Viking, Saxon and Norman occupation. Georgian elegance abounds. The photo, and it Halsgrove, 2016, 144 pages, £16.99 Victorians brought change and stamped their mark on the shape and fortunes of is defined by ISBN 978 0857042965 the city. The twentieth and twenty-first centuries have introduced some significant the timber new buildings. As a result, York has seen a constantly changing cityscape and yet framing and Chris Gee, writer and photographer, has lived in York for the at the same time remains remarkably constant. It has popular tourist appeal as heavy shadow last four years, thisabook is the fruit ofwork. a sustained effort to welland as being great place to live and under the catch its many aspects in very carefully planned photographs. York-based author and photographer Chris Gee has spent four years on foot, storey Chris has chosen particularly revealing at different timesattractions:upper exploring every quarter of this finelight city. There are the obvious York that projects of the year to makeClifford’s a comprehensive ofbut notthere only Minster; Tower and the record Shambles, arethe lots of hidden backinto the street great sights streets of York, also wonderful some ofoverhanging its little known byways medieval buildings, and numerous thatbut can reveal a striking and hidden secrets. Eachsnickets, photograph a and fascinating ginnels is andaccompanied alleyways. Thereby is wonder in the in detail pattern. This is thoughtful commentary which fascinating insights into thesurvived too, from old shop signsadds and street furniture that have somehow the photography city’s history.ages, It istoremarkably thought I of knew the remains ofcomprehensive; a Norman house, theI foundations a Saxon church and of a high order. York fairly well I have often stayed there and explored it, but old as Roman walls. Hiddenme gems combine with stirringI spectacles, to reveal the greatness of York, this book showed how many things had missed. in this magnificent new book that covers every aspect of this stunning city.The length of time Chris has been planning this book has allowed him to get one set of very unusual photos, of the floods I particularly liked the honesty of Chris’ photos. He does not ABOUT THE AUTHOR that frequently make the lives of the inhabitants difficult; you can Format: Hardback with full colour cover, 144pp, 238x258mm, use exaggerated filters or process his photos to create the Gee is a York-based photographer who specialises in outdoor profusely in colour rising throughout compare the scenes of before and illustrated after dramatic of the superficially impressive butChris meretricious effects one often sees writing and landscape photography. Chris combines his passion river. for the Three WaterPrice: Lanes is £16.99 shown living up to its name, with the in books of photographs. You can be confident that he really has outdoors with a keen interest in industrial archaeology, wildlife water photo- up to the lower ISBN: windows 978 0 85704 296 5 and streams pouring from the waited for the exact light he wanted to produce beautiful, natural Imprint: graphy and recording the changing seasons. Having relocated from pumps working to clear theHalsgrove rooms that the retreating water has shots. He makes excellent use of the winter sun on the mellow Published: September 2016 Manchester to York in 2012, Chris has spent the last four years absorbing left flooded. stone of York, captures night shots – those of the Shambles are the history of the City of York and capturing its unique appeal on camera. particularly good – and handles interior shots with assurance. This book is beautifully produced with high quality reproduction For a full listing ofresolution, all Halsgrove He uses a camera that allows a very high so thattitles, even please visit our website at www.halsgrove.com that does justice toHalsgrove Chris’Publishing, work. Every is illustrated colour Halsgrove page House, Ryelands Business Park,in Bagley Road, panoramic shots from the Cathedral are pin-point sharp. There The Halsgrove Group includes DAA Halsgrove Ltd., Halsgrove Ltd. & Halstar Ltd. TA21 9PZ Tel:make 01823 653777 Fax: 01823 216796 Wellington, Somerset It and given a concise commentary. would an excellent Registered in comment England & Wales Nos. 4136732, 6029724 & 6472636 at Halsgrove House, Wellington TA21 9PZ. are too many fineImprints: shots to on, but I was especially Halsgrove, Ryelands, Halstar, PiXZ Books & Halswood Journals. Halsgrove® is a registered trademark. Copyright© 2016 e-mail: sales@halsgrove.com present for anyone with anwww.halsgrove.com interest in York or a passion for pleased with one on page 85, of the Snickleway Inn. Most of architectural and scenic photography. us would have attempted the shot with the sun behind us, but Chris shoots ‘contre jour’ so that the figures of the shoppers Ralph Britton (Boys’ Division Staff, 1972-2007) are black silhouettes, with just a fine highlight identifying them.

WALKING THE YORKSHIRE COAST A COMPANION GUIDE

HALSGROVE TITLE INFORMATION

Gee WalkingChristhe Yorkshire Coast

damaged during the Civil War. North of Scarborough are quiet The Yorkshire Coast is hugely varied. There are Victorian seaside towns like Filey, Scarplaces, woodland and borough and Saltburn, the very epitome of the classic English seaside resort. There are quaint fishing harbours like Staithes, Runswick Bay and Robin Hood’s Bay. There are high rocky beaches and by Chris Geechalk (1983-1990) cliffs, so highly symbolic of the English coast. There are fine seabird colonies where the surviving ancient you can find gannets, puffins, razorbills, guillemots and kittiwakes Grey seals haul out on tracks of dinosaurs. rocks and from Whitby you can go whale watching in late summer in search of minke Pixz £9.99 ISBN 978harbour 085710 1075 whales, porpoise and bottlenose dolphins. Paths leading to Robin Then there is the heather moorland, a blaze of purple in late summer, which rolls down Hood’s Bay meet to almost touch the coast on the edge of the North York Moors, where adders and slow It is useful to do some detailed worms can be found research basking on a before summer’s setting day. Thereout is evidence of industry too, past spectacular views, and present – the steel industry, mining,Gee quarrying, and railways. And then there on a major walk and this handbook by Chris is afishing perfect locations is Whitby, a place of legend, atmosphere and history, from where Captain Cook went on rich in wildlife companion and guide. The route from Barmston to was Saltburn to explore the wider world and where Bram Stoker inspired to write his classic and Gothic further traces of novel,which Dracula. can be taken separately or the whole divides into sections the past. Not quite Almost the entire coastline is accessible, with long distance coastal paths that follow 70 miles from south to edge north can be Those attempted a period finally, Whitby with its the very of Yorkshire. accessibleover sections are certainly the most appealing stretches this spectacular coast. Some of these like The of days. Chris chose theofdirection because the sun willpaths thenarebeNational Trails “maze of streets and Cleveland Way or other more recent long distance paths like The Headland Way. Others behind the walker illuminating landscape and seascape ahead. alleyways” are ordinary, everyday footpaths which give access to some stunning, secret places. In gives Chris Impressive photographs text enhancing, through spring and illustrate summer the the coastal footpaths are a riot of colour, the pink of thrift red fineand opportunities campion, dazzling ox-eye daisies and cowrecord parsley, bright foot trefoil choice of time and setting, hiswhite detailed, intriguing of yellow bird’s for photography and and kidney vetch. human and natural Chris worlds. historical Gee explores the Yorkshire Coast from south to north. Generously illustrated, this anecdote, companion guide to the Yorkshire Coast will provide added pleasure and knowledge rangingforfrom St Hilda’s those who have walked it in whole or in part, or for those who still have this glorious treat Early in the walk awaiting Chris finds the site of a medieval village and Abbey to Captain Cook them. earthwork remains enable him to work out the position of to heritage railways. houses, crofts and lanes. The old world meets the new when he ABOUT THEthe AUTHOR notes pill-boxes and tank traps on beach. In the same area Despite the wealth of Format: detail theHardback, guide maintains its coherence. 144 pages, 210x148mm, Chris Gee is a York-based photographer who specialises in outdoor writing and ammonites and some rarer landscape fossils speak ofChris a time immeasurably Content the reader to walk thethroughout paths, photography. combines his passion for the outdoors and walkingand arrangement invite profusely illustrated in colour with a keen interest in industrial archaeology, wildlife photography andincluding recording the additional brief remote. This recording of fascinating detail is characteristic of to enjoy the air with gannets, Price:detours, £9.99 changing seasons. Having relocated from Manchester to York in 2012, Chris has spent the guide which at the samethetime never loses its direction. Later guillemots early enough, ISBN: if up 978 0 85710 107 5 to see the sunrise last four years exploring every inch of the Yorkshire Coast from the River Tees to the and terns, and, we are in Scarborough whose tradition and red-tiled PiXZ Books Riverholiday Humber. over the sea, the final Imprint: dazzling illustration. Published: October 2016 roofs are attractively illustrated. The walk continues to St Mary’s church, founded in the 12th where aof headstone marks titles,Charles Winder (Boys’ Division Staff, 1964-1999) Forcentury, a full listing all Halsgrove the grave of Ann Brontë. History embodied in at thewww.halsgrove.com castle, please visitisour website The Halsgrove Group includes DAA Halsgrove Ltd., Halsgrove Ltd. & Halstar Ltd. Registered in England & Wales Nos. 4136732, 6029724 & 6472636 at Halsgrove House, Wellington TA21 9PZ. Imprints: Halsgrove, Ryelands, Halstar, PiXZ Books & Halswood Journals. Halsgrove® is a registered trademark. Copyright© 2015

Both of Chris’ books are available from local stockists or, in case of difficulty, from Halsgrove

Halsgrove Publishing, Halsgrove House, Ryelands Business Park, Bagley Road, Wellington, Somerset TA21 9PZ Tel: 01823 653777 Fax: 01823 216796 www.halsgrove.com sales@halsgrove.com Direct on 01823 653777 e-mail: or www.halsgrove.com

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

Andy and Kirsty’s big day Andy Walton (1981-1987) married fiancée Kirsty on 5th August last year – here he describes how coming back to School for his wedding day was the perfect way to celebrate his marriage.

the room would be laid out and that the music we had chosen would be playing, the thought of getting married in such a splendid, majestic and special place as the Great Hall seemed perfect.

I had previously been to reunion events at School and was aware that the Arts Centre is a great venue and certainly thought it to be a fantastic place for a wedding reception. After enquiring further we learnt that we could also get married at School, so the decision was pretty easy to make.

Members of the Class of ’87 helped Andy and Kirsty to celebrate, L-R: Gary Monaghan, Andy Palmer, Patrick Heald, Andy Walton, Sarah Lundy (née Redford), Wendy Bell-Brown (née Owen), Juliet Lawson (née Lowe), David Orchard and Lisa Myers (née Cronshaw)

Kirsty and Andy – the Great Hall was not how Andy remembered it from his School days!

Returning to School always makes me smile, so planning to get married there was inherently the right thing to do. I presumed that our wedding would focus around the Arts Centre. However, when Kirsty saw the Great Hall for the first time and commented how fantastic it was and how special it would be to get married there, it caused a slight mental stutter for me, as in my mind the Great Hall is only for assemblies or exams! Previously I’ve just turned up there and either sung (well, mumbled) or written for hours in silent worry. But once I saw how

Bolton School has always had high standards and it went without saying that this applies to hosting weddings too. The focus on fine detail without any compromise is something that is threaded throughout School life whether it touches on you as a current pupil or as an Old Boy. That was very much evident in the planning meetings we had with Alex and Adele from the Weddings and Events Team. On the day it felt as though we just turned up and everything had seamlessly been put in place by a team that obviously works tirelessly and keeps a keen focus on detail to achieve what Kirsty and I can only describe as the most fantastic and incredible day. I apologise for the cliché, but we had the most perfect day. We had an unforgettable opportunity to share time with our family and friends – including several members of the Class of 1987 – enjoying exceptional food in a stunning venue. My wish is that when we’re all older and grey(er) (specifically the Class of 1987!), we can all recall our wedding day and remember it for how special it was for Kirsty and me, and the experience of celebrating it at Bolton School will be part of that abiding memory.

Bolton School Weddings and Events are part of Bolton School Services Ltd: they have delivered hundreds of weddings over the years and pride themselves on delivering a service built on quality, reliability and tradition. For all enquiries, please contact the Events Team by emailing enquiries@bssevents.com, or by phone on 01204 434795.

Newsletter Spring 2017

Krishnan on the road to Uganda Krishnan Patel (2003-2008) recently raised funds in aid of underprivileged people in Uganda. He then travelled there to offer first-hand some much needed help. Here he describes his experiences and how he made a difference to some of the lives he touched. I came up with the idea of The Road2Uganda in May 2016. I have always wanted to help those who are less fortunate than myself, particularly in terms of opportunity, education and access to basic human needs such as food, water and health care. The Road2Uganda gave me, and everybody who donated, an opportunity to make a tangible and meaningful difference in enhancing the lives of people in a deprived area of Uganda. The plan was to run four marathons in four days, from the North West to the North East of England. In total, the Road2Uganda challenge was 115 miles long and was completed 3rd-6th January alongside fellow Old Boltonian Nick Pilling (2003-2010). The idea was to show how much helping these people in Uganda meant to me and that everyone, no matter what Krishnan and Nick after their circumstances, can make crossing the 115 mile a difference. Having never Road2Uganda in Seaham previously run more than five miles, preparation for the Road2Uganda challenge was gruelling and the whole experience pushed me to my limits. On 14th January I set off to Uganda to volunteer, knowing that the Road2Uganda campaign had raised a phenomenal £3,963.15. I worked with disabled children, children at an orphanage and with sports development at a school. The aim was to help make a sustainable difference so that as many people as possible would be able to benefit. I discovered that the average age of a Ugandan person is less than 15 years old, and that every fifth child in Uganda has lost one or both parents due to HIV AIDS. Whilst volunteering at People of Friends with Disabilities in Uganda, I discovered that out of the 15 children who were there, not a single one lived with

both parents. Some Ugandan people believe that a disability is a curse on the whole family and therefore disown or abandon their child due to this. At the orphanage I discovered a similar situation: many Mark and Paul from the Friends of the 24 children had of People with Disabilities school, been abandoned by wearing gifts generously donated their parents. Indeed, to the Road2Uganda campaign while I was there a mother had abandoned her one-day-old daughter in an open latrine. Thankfully somebody found her and notified the police who brought her to the orphanage. The school that I was assigned to had a surplus of both children and teachers, yet there were not enough classrooms or facilities to educate them. Having discovered this, I entered into discussions with various people within Krishnan brought a smile to the school community. many faces! It was decided to use the money that the Road2Uganda campaign had raised to erect a building that would house three classrooms and educate over 150 children. So far the money that has been raised has all gone to this project, yet more money will be needed to complete the structure and provide the equipment needed. To this end there is a fundraising page www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/Road2Uganda and you can also follow the Road2Uganda journey on www.krishyp.wixsite. com/road2uganda. The new building under construction – it will help educate 150 children per term at Hebron Junior School

Krishnan helped to coach Hebron School football players – the boys love to play the sport they love, even if they have no trainers or footwear

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

A LIFE BUILT ON GREAT FOUNDATIONS Bilal Barkatali (1991-1998) is a Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic surgeon at Salford Royal Hospital. Last year he spoke to pupils from both Divisions as part of an Alumni Careers Day and was inspired to share his experiences of returning to the School which inspired and motivated him along his chosen career path. I recently attended the Centenary celebrations held at School and realised that it had been 18 years since I left. However, at dinner in the Great Hall, I was seated next to Mr and Mrs Alan Wright and the memories came flooding back. Mrs Wright had taught me Chemistry and Mr Wright was the Headmaster during my time at School. It was great catching up with them, and to reminisce about the place which helped to make me the person I am today.

U6 B1 1997-1998 - Back row L-R: Prabhu Sekaran, Peter Featherstone, Shahan Aljilani, Bilal, Abhinav Kant, Chris Collier and Peter Horrocks. Front row L-R: Richard Cummings, Andrew Doran, Charles Forshaw, Todd Steggles, Pervez Sultan and Ramzari Salami As an 11 year old boy with little experience of the world, arriving at Bolton School was probably a bit like arriving at Hogwarts (although Harry Potter hadn’t been written at that time!). It seemed like a magical place with the hugely impressive Great Hall and the giant organ as its centrepiece. For the first week, the main thing on my mind was to try not to get lost – fortunately, everyone was in the same boat and very soon groups of friends started to emerge. I immersed myself in what was on offer and joined the Lit and Deb Society, the Computer Club, the Chess Club and even dabbled in role play board games (which I soon realised wasn’t for me). I remember being regularly reprimanded by Jack Stables in CDT via his favoured method of balsa wood on the head – it was all in jest and no one was ever hurt, but he always got his point across! The year ended with Prizegiving, an impressive event where awards were given out to deserving students in music, academia and sport. Emulating the Sixth Formers going up the steps to accept their full colours for Rugby, Football etc seemed like a faraway pipe dream. I had more of an affinity for the sciences than the arts, but genuinely enjoyed most subjects. However, Wednesday afternoon games and PE were highlights of the week. I loved playing football, but in the Fourth Year decided to give rugby a try – what a great decision that was! I fell in love with it instantly. In the Fifth Year I joined the senior squad, where the camaraderie was legendary – we trained hard, played hard and partied hard (some more than others!). The 2nd XV of 1995-96 developed a great reputation for playing some fantastic rugby, and most of us went on to join the First Team the following season. It was a magical time, with some great characters. We were led and trained by the keen eye, good humour and high principles of Caspar (Joseph) and his partner in crime, Fernie (Paul Fernside). With no life responsibilities, and the sheer joy and freedom of playing rugby with some great guys, it was a really happy time.

A few of us reformed the Bolton School basketball team and went on to win the North West championship for the first time ever, which was a huge achievement. But it wasn’t all great sporting achievements for me; I was once picked for the cricket team and on my debut, dropped a catch and was bowled out for a duck! Amidst the trips to Patterdale Hall, and playing various sports, there was the small issue of GCSEs and A Levels. However, with the amazing teachers that we were so privileged to have teach us, the exams didn’t seem to be such a big hurdle. I had the pleasure of being taught by the legendary Doc Watson and Mr Schenk for Chemistry, Doc Pacini and Mr Robertson for Biology and Mr Des Shaw and Mrs Wright for Physics. In my final year at School I had the honour of becoming House Captain for Chorley House and, with some talented sportsmen playing for us, we went on to lift the House Trophy. I was also chosen to be School Captain, which was the greatest honour of them all. I went up to receive full colours for Rugby and half colours for Basketball, and after seven years had achieved what I only dreamed about as a First Year. On leaving School I studied medicine at Edinburgh University. Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world and it was a privilege to study there – any budding medics should consider it! After six glorious years in Edinburgh I finally became a junior doctor and started my career, during which I taught anatomy at Oxford University, published research and trained in Trauma and Orthopaedic surgery. After ten years of training, in 2014 I became a consultant at Salford Royal Teaching Foundation Hospital, specialising in knee and hip surgery – I have even had the pleasure of performing surgery on some Old Boltonians! I’ve noticed that on meeting fellow Old Bolts, an automatic bond of friendship and respect is instantly there – it doesn’t matter when you went to Bolton School: the same values have been instilled in us all. In summary, the magic of Bolton School doesn’t just lie with the beautiful building, or the magnificent sports pitches, or Patterdale Hall; it is the people there. When I teach young surgeons of the future, I always think back to how I was taught: with humour and with inspiration. Bilal would love to hear from other Old Boys – whether it’s careers advice you need or help with dodgy knees, please feel free to get in touch via www.theknee.expert

Bilal is proud to have been in the School’s rugby team

Newsletter Spring 2017

EVENTS ANNUAL DINNER 11TH DECEMBER 2016 It was a delight to be a guest at this dinner. As the Headmaster said in his address, the service and the food were excellent. Old Boltonians of many generations, male and female staff and former staff made a convivial company. After FR Poskitt’s grace, said by the Reverend David Allen (Boys’ Division Staff, 1958-1993), conversation continued and we were later entertained by absorbing and humorous speeches. Sir Philip Craven (1961-1969), our President, had featured that very morning on Desert Island Discs, and everyone was aware of the recent achievements of England’s new opening batsman, Haseeb Adam Syddall (1984-1998), Michael Hameed (2010-2015) Evans (1992-1998), Huw Dixon who was the same (1980-1994) and Matthew Syddall morning interviewed (1981-1995) on Today. Sir Philip, a keen follower of cricket, had almost secured Haseeb’s attendance at the dinner, but successful treatment (for a broken finger) determined a return to India and the touring squad. In proposing the toast to the School, Sir Philip chose to speak about matters of principle. His role as President of the International Paralympic Committee has taken him to many places where he has met powerful people. In Sochi he met Mr Putin and others, but refused to engage with them in debate about political issues. He confined himself to sufficiently controversial issues of sport. In Rio he tackled the problem of funding when all resources seemed to have been spent. He did not draw attention explicitly to his own determination, energy and skill, but it was evident to his listeners that these attributes enabled his committee to secure provision for the Paralympic Games. Parity between the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games is a necessary principle which, under Sir Philip’s leadership, has conferred the status now enjoyed by physically impaired athletes. For the encouragement of such principles, now actively applied, Sir Philip was grateful to his education at Bolton School. Replying, the Headmaster spoke of events during the 500th anniversary year and looked forward to later anniversaries. In 2020 we will celebrate the 125th year of the Association’s foundation and its continuing support for the School. Traditional activities like camping with Scouts and at Saundersfoot are enhanced by the introduction of modern initiatives like the satellite connection, not entirely dependable, which communicated progress in the European Cup. We await detailed results of the recent inspection when exposure to water polo practice provided sensational early moments to the inspectors who found more routine satisfaction in commending the proper labelling of fire extinguishers. Whatever the focus of the inspectors, the School and the Association depend on the reliable lead of

officers and staff. Trevor Pledger (Boys’ Division Staff, 19862017), now retiring, has been outstanding in the part he has played. With this acknowledgement the Headmaster brought his engaging and witty reply to its end. After two years as President, Sir Philip handed the chain of office to his successor, David Shaw (Boys’ Division Staff, 1964-2002 and former Old Boys’ Liaison Officer). David paid tribute to his predecessor and the indispensable support of the two retiring Vice Presidents, Peter Leather (1973-1980) and Irfan Ravat (1992-1999). He looks forward to attending many functions and fostering relations David Shaw gives his with old pupils. The number he inaugural speech as has had contact with is vast, after President of the Old Boys’ an association with the School Assocation which began 53 years ago. When he reported for interview he was deeply impressed by what he saw and people he met. Serving under several Headmasters as a novice teacher and, since the 1980s, as Deputy Head, his knowledge and affection grew. David gave us some humorous brief illustrations from his experience and these closing words contained promise of a successful year to come. They weren’t quite the closing words. Forty Years On, Auld Lang Syne and the National Anthem proclaimed unanimous enjoyment of the evening. We are grateful to our pianist, David Lowe (19441954) and particularly Stephen Lewis (1953-1960), Peter to Chris Taylor (1965Nightingale (1953-1961) and Barry 1973) who, as Master Morris (1953-1960) of Ceremonies, set the joyous mood. Groups remained talking long after formalities came to an end. Charles Winder (Boys’ Division Staff, 1964-1999)

The next Old Boys’ Lunch, which will be preceded by the Association’s AGM, will take place on Monday 15th May at 12 noon in the Arts Centre

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

PHOTO WALL

Since the Autumn 2016 edition of regional dinners in Bristol, Oxford

Bristol Dinner The Grand Hotel - Friday 30th September 2016 ‘An annual treat.’ Malcolm Menzie (1946-1952)

n (née Wes Christine Watso so and Andrew Wat

Michael Priestley (1944 -1953)

‘Great to hear of all the success stories.’

and Alan Hardy (1946 -1954)

Oxford Dinner Balliol College - Friday 18th November 2016

Andrew Watson (1953-196 Philip Britton (Headmaster) and John Sharples (1967-1974)

Brian Darbyshire (1957-196 (1958-1968), Victoria Darbyshir and Lesley Acton and Roge

Ian Galloway (1959-1969) and Heather Walker (1993-2000)

‘Wonderful to hear ho doing and how Bolto 9-2016) Philip Britton, Dominic Walker (200 016) 12-2 (200 med Aha tair Alas and

Alastair Ahamed (2

‘A delight as always.’ Brian Darbyshire (1957-1965)

(2001-2009), Erik Johnson, Amy Bridgford, David Griffiths Thomas Harrison (2006-2008) David Robinson (2006-2008), ion staff) and Roger Harrison (Boys’ Divis

Peter Swift (2007-20 13), Alastair Ahamed and Dominic Walker

Thom (Boys’ Divisio

Newsletter Spring 2017

f The Bugle we have held Alumni events across the country, including d and Cambridge. Here is a selection of photos from these events.

st, 1958-1965) on (1953-1964)

Jesus College - Friday 3rd February 2017

staff), s’ Division ent of ooth (Boy Richard B 4-2002 and Presid 964) 957-1 ff 196 (1 ta S er n st io is eb iv W ) w (Boys’D ion), Stan 003-2010 David Sha ld Boys’ Associat d Oliver Quayle (2 an the O

Henry Mitson, Shyam Dhokia (20 David Shaw, Sid Neelson (2007 -2013), 02-2015), Adam Murray (Class of Sohail Daniel (20 2014), 08-2015), Alex Jo hnson (2005-20 15) and Richard Bo oth

‘Fabulous dinner, can’t beat the company – would never miss a dinner, always fantastic.’

’

64)

65), Graham Ashurst re, Peter (1964-1971) er Smith (1972-1979)

Cambridge Dinner

Adam Murray (Class of 2014)

(Head of Beech House), John Crawforth, Hilary Crawforth r Quayle and Paul Greenhalgh (2001-2015), Olive 1981 and Boys’ Division staff) 1974Lee, (née h nhalg Gree e Elain

‘Incredibly grateful for the opportunity to see everyone again.’ Alex Johnson (2005-2015)

Stan Webster, Martin Thompson (1959-1973) and Peter Acton (1964 -1971)

ow the School is onians turn out!’

20012-2016)

Harrison mas Harrison, Roger binson on staff) and David Ro

nd id Shaw a cton, Dav A 15) r 0 te -2 e 8 P 0 , ayle son (20 Oliver Qu Henry Mit

‘Ninth year in a row … and still as enjoyable as the first time we came!’ Thomas Harrison (2006-2008)

Malcolm Howe (1948-1956)

‘Very enjoyable evening and great to hear about the current life of the Schools.’ Mike Shaw (1981-1988)

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

SPORTS

AS FEBRUARY DAWNS, FOOTBALL FIGHTS ON Despite the environment of less and less weekend 11-a-side football being played – a couple of teams have folded in the LAL during the year – Old Bolts have managed to continue into their 98th year on five fronts. This, in many ways, is the club’s biggest achievement, but, as the average playing age goes up and the number of regularly available players goes down, overriding all else is the regular reminder that any Old Boy footballer in the area is more than welcome to join us – play at your level as often as you want to help us towards our centenary.

The A team is mid-table in the fourth tier (of seven) and, as usual, is the best placed A team. The Reserves have yo-yoed their way through their 19 games so far with three consecutive wins being bookended by two similar runs of losses.

some recent teams is less evident, but a grittier yet accomplished drive from midfield – thanks to the experience of such as Taylor, Farrimond and Warburton – has won over the ever-growing band of spectators with a significant resilient few watching home and away. Cup glory is much closer following win number 12 in gale-battered Padiham – 3-2 LFA cup semi-final victory over Burnley Belvedere, despite having conceded a goal in 25 seconds without having touched the ball! – sees us returning to Leyland County Ground on 15th March looking to repeat 2013’s success.

It is to the Firsts that, as so often, we look for most attainments to date. The worst start for many a year has been superseded by a magnificent run of a dozen consecutive wins, including inflicting leaders Failsworth Dynamos’ first point loss in midJanuary to keep hopes of league success alive. The flowing élan of

Match subs just about cover everincreasing playing expenses; the venue for the Black and White Ball is about to become significantly more expensive, so finances are even more in the forefront of the committee’s thinking. A relaunch of the Patrons Fund is planned as we want to advance and improve with the need

The Vets, well established in the second tier of their Sunday morning league, were unbeaten in December and January to lie third, just out of promotion slots. Likewise, the B team went two months unbeaten and, with just four games to play, has an exactly 50% record with six wins and six defeats.

30 years of success Trevor Pledger, a member of the Boys’ Division staff since 1986, is to retire this Summer. Amongst his many achievements during his 31 years here, Trevor has been pivotal in the School’s success in water polo. Across the years the School has held 24 English Schools National titles over three year groups. We are the only school ever to hold all three titles at once, which we have done four times. There have been 29 Junior Boys’ Internationals (also three Girls’) and six full men’s internationals (also one women’s). It is therefore fitting to mark Trevor’s retirement with a celebration of water polo and this will take place on Saturday 8th July. A series of games is to be played at the Bolton

for funds for such as redrainage paramount – if, however, any readers with memories of playing for or watching the club feel able to preempt this with any annual donation, please contact treasurer Roger Milne or your correspondent, Martin Wadsworth, via the club website or the Development Office. Still to come this season are the defence of the famed Boot at the Liverpool Ramblers Easter tournament, the Veterans’ April trip to Jersey for a weekend of nostalgia on and off the pitch and the Annual Dinner on Friday 12th May. This celebratory event found its feet again last year and remains the absolute vital fundraiser for the club. Please visit our website for details: it’s at the start of a major Old Boys’ weekend – it’s the ‘7’ Class Reunion on the Saturday and the AGM and Old Boys’ lunch on the Monday, so come and join the memory-filled celebrations!

One pool (the Jason Kenny Centre) in the town centre from 1.30pm and we hope to engage as many players as possible. At 6pm there will be a buffet at School, to which all connected with the Bolton School Water Polo Club are welcome to attend: players, past and present, parents and families of players, plus coaches past and present. Young families will be welcome. The evening event is free of charge. Anyone wishing to participate in or spectate at the water polo games and/or to attend the evening reception should contact the Development Office on 01204 434718 or email development@boltonschool.org.

Newsletter Spring 2017

OLD BOLTONIANS’ GOLF SOCIETY REPORT: Spring 2017 It is hard to think of golf as I write this on a cold late January day; possible rain and near zero temperatures are hardly conducive to what is for most a Summer pastime. However, trying to be proactive, I would like to advise all members, and would-be participants who would like to join us, of the dates for 2017. However, before 2017, can I inform all those who may be interested Ian Moss (1974-1981) receiving the Matchplay that the inaugural Secretaries Rose Bowl from the 2016 Old Boltonians’ Golf Salver was played at Bolton in Society Captain Roger Gould (1948-1959), as October 2016 and the victors runner-up Chris Carley (1963-1973) looks on were Phil Riding and partner Nigel Compsty – thanks to the 24 members who supported this new event. To conclude the 2016 season I am pleased to report that the Matchplay Rose Bowl was won by Ian Moss who defeated Chris Carley in a closely-fought final.

Old Boy opens batting for England Congratulations to cricketer Haseeb Hameed (2010-2015) – less than two years ago he was picking up his A Level results from Bolton School, in November he opened the batting for England! Haseeb made his international debut against India in the first test match in Rajkot, becoming England’s fifth youngest Test player and youngest ever opening batsman. He is also the first Lancashire opening batsman to play for England in 21 years.

In 2017 the Gwynne Jones Goblets, our foursomes competition, will be played at Bolton Golf Club on Sunday 2nd April – the tee is reserved from 1pm with a meal and a general meeting of the society to follow the golf. The Taylor trophy, an 18-hole medal competition, will be played at Bolton Golf Club on Wednesday 7th June. The tee is reserved from 4pm to 5pm, with a meal and presentation after play. For the more regular players, I would like to advise them of the following events during 2017. The PSOBGA event – The Grafton Morrish Trophy – will be played as follows: the qualifying round is at Huddersfield Golf Club on Sunday 14th May, with the Finals at Hunstanton and Brancaster between 29th September and 1st October. The Lancashire Old Boys Golf Association team event for the Lord John Morley Trophy will be played at West Lancs Golf Club on Wednesday 28th June with the tee reserved from 1pm until 3pm. The format is a five-man team event, with four scores to count, and we usually enter at least one team. The Secretaries Salver, the new fourball better ball event, has been scheduled for Sunday 15th October, again at Bolton Golf Club. The other event about which I need to remind all members is the Matchplay Rose Bowl: this is a singles matchplay event and the commitment is one game per month during the Summer, should you keep winning! Please put the dates in your diary – entry forms for the events will have been emailed to all members on the database during February. If you wish to play and have not let me have an email contact, then please do so at norman.fletcher@pga.org.uk. The Golf Society would be delighted to welcome any Old Bolts who have not played in our society events; please try to find the time to join us and maybe you will be able to renew old acquaintances and play some golf at the same time! Norman FIetcher (1961-1969), Golf Secretary

Mr Andy Compton, Head of Cricket at Bolton School, said: “I am delighted for Haseeb. The first time I saw him was in our indoor nets in the Spring Term when he was in Year 8 and we knew then we had a very special talent on our hands.” And Haseeb’s meteoric rise to the top has proved him to be right!

Bursary Golf Day 2017 The annual Bursary Golf Day is being held on Thursday 14th September 2017 at Bolton Golf Club, and is open to all Old Boys who would like to enter a team of four. Last year, the event raised over £2,000 for the School Bursary Fund. It is hoped that the 2017 event will raise even more funds for this worthy cause – and that the sunshine will once again return to join us! The Golf Day is always an enjoyable day out, with lunch beforehand and a carvery dinner served at the 19th Hole after the golf itself. If you would like to enter a team, please contact the Development Office.

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

Destinations of Leavers – 2016 ADIA

AASIM

University of Leeds

Medicine

AHAMED

ALASTAIR

University of Oxford

Law

AHMED

LUQMAN

St George’s, University of London

Medicine

AL-BALDAWY

ABDULLA

University of Sheffield

Aerospace Engineering

ALLSUP

LUKE

Birchwood College

Biology and Mathematics

ANDERSON

DANIEL

University of Edinburgh

Architecture

AZIMY

CYRUS

King’s College London

History and International Relations

BALL

MATTHEW

University of Leeds

Product Design

BARKER

JAMES

Manchester Metropolitan University

Foundation Course

BATE

CHRISTOPHER

Durham University

Economics

BATTARBEE

CHRISTOPHER

Imperial College London

Computing

BHAIYAT

UMAR

University of Manchester

Actuarial Science and Mathematics

BOHM

LOUIS

Gap year

BOND

OLIVER

University of Warwick

BOOTLE

SAM

Employment

BOULOS

CHRISTOPHER

Newcastle University

BRISCOE

THOMAS

Gap year

BROMILOW

RICHARD

Employment

BROOKWELL

DANIEL

University of Leeds

Chemical Engineering

BROWNLOW

CHRISTOPHER

University College of Estate Management

Building Surveying

CATON

JAMES

Gap year

CHANDIA

ZAKI

City, University of London

Mathematics Medicine

Aeronautical Engineering

CHANDRAN

ANCHIT

Imperial College London

Medicine

CLARK

JOHN

Queen’s University, Belfast

Microbiology

CUNLIFFE

ALEXANDER

Manchester Metropolitan University

Microbiology and Molecular Biology

DATTA

RISHI

King’s College London

German

DAVIDSON

WILLIAM

Loughborough University

Sport and Exercise Psychology

FAZAL

KAMRAN

University of Manchester

Pharmacy

FLOOD

JAMES

Gap year

FLYNN

ADAM

Apprenticeship

GAJRA

ADIL

Aston University

Engineering and Applied Science

GILLARD

THOMAS

University of Brighton

Pharmaceutical and Chemical Sciences

GORICK

SAMUEL

University of Warwick

Mathematics and Physics

GREENWOOD

TITUS

Bangor University

Psychology

HADDON

MATTHEW

Flying School

HALL

ALEXANDER

University of Manchester

Mathematics with a Modern Language

HARFORD

OLIVER

University of Glasgow

Economics/History

HASLAM

ASTON

University of Leeds

Geography

HILL

JAMES

Keele University

Geography

HOLBROOK

JACK

Nottingham Trent University

History

HOLMES

ALEXANDER

Cardiff University

Psychology

HOLMES

JOSH

Employment

HOSKER

ALEXANDER

Oxford Brookes University

History

Newsletter Spring 2017

HUSSAN

WALEED

Gap year

KAY

FRASER

University of Leeds

KHAN

HASSAN

Studying Abroad

LAW

OSCAR

University of Leeds

LAWTON

BENJAMIN

Gap year

Psychology Biology

LIMBADA

ZAID

Jame’ah Riyadul Uloom

Islamic Sciences

MAJEED

GHULAM

King’s College London

Medicine

MALIK

SAMEE

Heriot-Watt University

Chemical Engineering

McNICHOLAS

THOMAS

University of Brighton

Aeronautical Engineering

MELLING

JAKE

Coventry University

Geography (2017)

MIDDLETON

MACK

Gap year

MOHAMMED

FARAAZ

Newcastle University

Mechanical Engineering

University of Cambridge

Medicine

NANDAKUMAR GIRINATH NONELEY

THOMAS

University of Edinburgh

Russian Studies and English Literature

PANTELIDES

CHRISTOPHER

University College London

Medicine

PARKINSON

ROBERT

University of Manchester

International Management

PATEL

HAIDAR-ALI

Loughborough University

Aeronautical Engineering

PATEL

ROHAN

University of Dundee

Mathematics

PHILLIPS

NATHANIEL

Liverpool Football Club

PILLING

MAX

University of Leeds

Computer Science with Mathematics

PRAYLE

THOMAS

Loughborough University

Materials Engineering

REED

JORDAN

Newcastle University

Medicine

ROBERTS

PETER

Cardiff University

Medicine

RUDD

GEORGE

University of Sheffield

Medicine

SAIFUL

YOUSUF

Gap year

SANDBACH

CHARLES

Royal Veterinary College, London

Bioveterinary Sciences

SANDFORD

EDWARD

University of Oxford

Geography

SEED

ALEXANDER

Loughborough University

Product Design Engineering

SHARMA

ARCHIT

Imperial College London

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

SHAW

JACKSON

Liverpool John Moores University

Physical Education

SMITH TROW

JOSHUA

Nottingham Trent University

Furniture and Product Design

THOMPSON

NICHOLAS

University of Nottingham

Classics

TILLEY

SAMUEL

Cardiff University

Medicine

TURNBULL

ELLIOT

Durham University

Modern Languages and Cultures

TYRER

PATRICK

University of Leeds

International Relations and Russian

UL-HASSAN

UMAR

University of Sheffield

Chemical Engineering with Biotechnology

UTLEY

CAMERON

University of Leeds

German and Spanish

WALKER

DOMINIC

University of Oxford

Classics

WALSH

AARON

University of Huddersfield

Product Design

WATSON

ETHAN

Employment

WAZIR

HASEEB

University of Glasgow

Medicine

WEIR

ZACHARY

Manchester Metropolitan University

International Business/Spanish

WILDE

DANIEL

University of Sheffield

Aerospace Engineering

WONG

MICHAEL

Newcastle University

Environmental Science

WOODWARD

NIALL

Imperial College London

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

OLD BOYS’ NEWS If you would like to get in touch with any of the Old Boys featured – or any other Old Boltonian – please contact the Development Office.

Class of 1940-1949 Lyndon Jones (1937-1944) Lyndon retired from full-time employment at the end of February 2015, but still continues to do some work, amongst other places in Sri Lanka, Manila, Hong Kong and China.

the front left of each photo, with his fellow 2016 competitors in one and the School athletics team c1956 in the other.

Class of 1950-1959 Hamish McGlashan (1942-1956) Hamish recently organised a dinner for Old Boltonians residing in Perth, Australia. Despite having ten Old Boys and Old Girls on his list, only the three old stalwarts were able to attend: Nigel Lever (1948-1953) Tom Duckworth (1948-1956) and Hamish himself. Though age may weary them, they still recount their School days with clarity and humour! On a personal level, Hamish represented Australia in the World Masters Games in Perth in October last year, running in the 5000m and 200m. The 5000m was a respectable performance in that he did not come in last and even lapped a few other competitors. However, a pinging hamstring in the 200m meant a DNF, a large bruise and, alas, the likely end of his international athletics career. Incidentally, Hamish’s last 200m on the track before October was in the School sports in 1956 when he came second.

The photos here show Hamish at

John Ratcliffe (1949-1956) John has taken over as Honorary Secretary of the Bolton and District Organists’ Association (founded in 1946). The Association regularly uses Bolton School Coaches for its annual excursion, this year to Cartmel Priory and Kendal parish church. He still plays routinely at St Stephen’s in Elton, Bury, and is currently mentoring a young organist who is converting from drummer in a pop group to parish organist. John also continues in his role as a Governor at St Mary’s Church of England Primary School, Hawkshaw, now with 43 years’ service.

Class of 1960-1969 Gordon Brown (1955-1962) Gordon was in Bolton last summer and took the opportunity to visit School – for only the second time since leaving in 1962. A tour of the School brought back many happy memories and also gave Gordon the chance to see all the changes that have taken place since he was here. After school Gordon attended UMIST, as it was then, and graduated in Paper Science with a BSc. He worked at Robert Fletcher paper mills in

Greenfield and Kearsley, before joining CIBA in their Manchester Technical Services Laboratory. After some turmoil in that company, a merger with Geigy, he moved to Canada and joined The Dow Chemical Company in Sarnia, Ontario, where he had the opportunity to travel to the major Pulp and Paper regions in the Americas and Europe. He retired in 1998 and still resides in Sarnia, which is on the southern end of Lake Huron, just a short walk from the lake and beach. Gordon remains in touch with a couple of friends from those days in School, Dave Seddon and Michael Haworth, and while in Bolton had dinner with Bob Green. Many years ago he met Chris Jones in Vancouver – but there was no such thing as email back then! David Hargreaves (1956-1964) Richard Lowe (1952-1962) used the services of the Development Office to get in touch with David. After a series of emails reminiscing about mutual friends and experiences, David was prompted to share his gratitude to Bolton School and give an update on what he has been up to since leaving. David recalls his father being killed in the Harrow and Wealdstone train disaster in 1952 when David himself was only seven years old and at Devonshire Road Primary School. He can still vividly recall those appalling events and the devastating impact they had on the family and particularly his poor mother, who over the years became passionately devoted to supporting him to be as successful as possible. That is why, growing up without a father, being educated at Bolton School was hugely important, and David benefited enormously, not just from the wonderful opportunities available, both academic and cultural, but also from the kindness and support he received from people like Richard Poskitt, Roger Kirk, David

Newsletter Spring 2017

Allen and ‘Pip’ Porter. As a direct result of the teaching and support he received at Bolton School, David went to Churchill College, Cambridge, where he read English Literature for three very enjoyable but demanding years. That was followed by a year’s PGCE at Leicester University, but before embarking on a teaching career he spent two very happy years on the Bolton Evening News. David continued his membership of St George’s Road Congregational Church (now United Reformed!) where he began as a toddler: he sang in the choir, edited the church magazine and was appointed a Deacon – a rare honour for someone in their early 20s. He was also able to resume his friendship at church with Roger’s sister, Gwynneth, and her husband Bill Nightingale (who died last year), of Bolton School and Scouting fame. He occasionally led church services with David Allen, ex-staff, Scout leader and fellow tenor in the School choir, who was another significant influence on his life. David then spent the rest of his professional life as an English teacher in Sheffield, Melton Mowbray and Wellingborough, where he spent the last 20 years of his career as Deputy Headteacher of a large secondary school. He retired in 2005, but still lives with his wife in Wellingborough where they play a lot of golf and enjoy travelling. David would love to hear from Old Boys who remember him – please email dandlhargreaves@btopenworld.com. Carl Gardner (1956-1966) Carl studied Philosophy at Exeter University and subsequently worked as a design and media journalist, a TV researcher and, following a mid-life career shift, for the last 18 years of his working life he worked as an architectural

lighting designer, latterly running his own lighting design consultancy. He is now retired and lives in Clerkenwell, London, with his wife, Sylvie Pierce. He is a Governor at Mossbourne Victoria Park Academy in Hackney and is also a volunteer for the charity, Contact the Elderly. His main interests are art, classical music, hiking/fitness, jazz, food/wine, travel and, with difficulty, learning Italian. He spends 4-5 months of the year in Sicily, where he and his wife have a house. He would welcome contact with any of his old friends with whom he shared several happy years at Bolton School – please email carl@csglightingdesign.com. Andrew Kershaw (1961-1968) Andrew has lived in Tokyo since 1999, working as an editor at national newspaper, although he has never met any Old Bolts there. However, he would love to hear from any Old Boys who remember him – please get in touch by emailing imakershaw@gmail.com. Mark Doel (1962-1969) Mark has published a book, Social Work in 42 Objects (and more) (publishers Kirwin Maclean), a photographic book in which he explores the possibility of telling the story of social work via a collection of objects. The objects were proposed over a period of six months via an online blog, Social Work in 40 Objects (socialworkin40objects.com). In the end, 127 objects were proposed from people in 24 countries. The book is a celebration of social work through an unusual collection of objects.

Class of 1970-1979 Dave Ridyard (1970-1977) After over 30 years working in the oil and gas industry in Texas, Dave is now semi-retired and living in California in the San Francisco Bay area. Thomas Mason (1970-1977) Thomas left his professional work in September 2011 after a very interesting spell of 27 years in small business, the last 21 of which in the automotive supply chain. He wanted to improve his woodwork skill to a level where he could make nice furniture, and, after five years, is

pleased to say he has reached that objective. This change at 54 has, however, not been particularly easy: Thomas reflects that, having arrived in the non-establishment economy, low pay feels considerably different when it is a reality, compared to how it is viewed when it is an academic issue. But notwithstanding the difficulties, he made the right decision – although he can’t sell his work for prices that seem worth it, in return he can choose what he makes and how he makes it. Thomas has become interested in chairs, upholstery, textiles and soft furnishing, but his core interest is still wooden furniture. He recalls having had three woodwork teachers in his life, the first of whom was Michael Sefton; Thomas remembers those lessons very clearly – the class walked over from Park Road to that ground/ first floor room at the south end of the east wing and made practice joints from white pine. “48 years later, working alone, I use every one of the techniques he taught us then, and I think of him very many times in a year, he was a truly lovely man.” John Ion (1967-1978) After School John studied Materials Science at Imperial College (London University) and completed his PhD at Luleå University in Sweden in 1985. Following this he undertook Postdoctoral studies at Cambridge University, and has since worked in the field of Materials Science in Oslo (Norway), Lappeenranta (Finland), Cambridge (England) and Adelaide and Perth (Australia). He is currently working as Professor in Materials Science at Malmö University in Sweden.

Class of 1980-1989 Richard Morris (1979-1986) Richard’s 280-mile challenge was featured in the Autumn 2016 edition of The Bugle – he donned skis then trainers to complete a number of gruelling competitions all in aid of charity. Richard would now like to thank everyone who supported him in his endeavours and helped him to raise over £7,200 for Cancer Research and over £5,000 for The British Heart Foundation. Well done Richard!

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

Matt Phillips (1981-1988) Matt is still practising as a barrister in Outer Temple Chambers, London. In February he became a QC – congratulations! Dan Flint (1978-1988) After ten successful, but demanding, years with Accenture in the UK, Dan and his wife and ten-year-old son decided a new adventure was required and moved over ‘semi-permanently’ to Brisbane in 2016. In keeping with the lifestyle change, Dan has moved out of the large consulting environment and joined a small cyber security organisation with a view to helping them grow their business in Australia. He is happily trading in weekends watching sport on TV to spending time golfing, kayak fishing and body boarding, and is equally happy to trade complaining about the miserable never-ending rain, to moaning about the unrelenting heat. Mike Ward (1981-1988) Mike is the lead consultant at the Horton Hospital within the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Class of 1990-1999 Richard Eames (1983-1990) Richard now lives in Vienna with his wife Julia and children Anton (5) and Hazel (3). He is Head of Communications for the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA), an international organisation that offers a master’s degree and other training programmes for anti-corruption and compliance professionals from around the world. Richard began his career as a journalist in the US, Hungary and Lebanon before spending ten years at the Economist Intelligence Unit in various roles. More recently he worked in communications for IMD, a global business school based in Lausanne. He has fond memories of School, where his late father Christopher taught History for many years, and he still makes the occasional foray onto the football pitch.

Sameer Mehta (Class of 1992) Sam continues as the CEO and Director of Dr Mehta’s Hospitals and Investment Director of the Atlas Family Office in India. Recently he has joined the Executive Committee of the Chennai Angels, joined the Boards of Proklean Technologies and Health Pasteur, been awarded the ‘Hero of India’ for recognition for service to the Healthcare Industry and Society during the floods in South India and been recognised as a Healthcare Pioneer for co-founding India’s first organised Home Healthcare Company (India Home Health Care).

with Bolton School a possible venue for the big event! Thomas Relph (1994-2005) Thomas is marrying Anna Noble in May this year. He is in touch with many of his classmates and a group of them attended the School’s Centenary Ball in June last year.

James Ducker (1988-1998) Last March James left The Times after 11 incredibly enjoyable years to join The Daily Telegraph as their Northern Football Correspondent. Iain Smith (1989-1999) After leaving School, Iain had a gap year and then went to the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 2000 to study and obtain a Degree in Town Planning. During a placement in 2003-2004 he met his wife, Fran. Instead of going back to the University of Newcastle in 2004 to obtain his Diploma in Town Planning, Iain transferred to the University of Manchester and received a Masters in Town Planning in 2005. In 2007 he became a chartered member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI). He spent several years at Savills (at the same time as Old Boltonian Roger Smith was (and still is) working in their Oxford office) and made the move to be Group Planning Director at the Watkin Jones Group in 2009. He now lives in Greenmount, Bury, with his wife, Fran, and children Maisie (5) and Henry (3).

Class of 2000-2009 James Clarke (Class of 2005) James recently got engaged to Rachel Thomas (Girls’ Division, Class of 2007), the pair having first met whilst at School. Although being good friends whilst at School, they did not get together until five years ago when they found themselves both living in the Bolton area after completing university. James and Rachel are now in the midst of wedding planning –

L-R: Ramez Ibrahim, Serena Othick (née Salim), Thomas Relph, Jane Booth, Edd Thompson, Kay Donegan, David Burrows, Jenny Scott and Ben Jackson (all Class of 2005)

Class of 2010 onwards Jordan Allen (Class of 2012) Jordan’s career in music is really beginning to take off. Last year he released three singles with national airplay, put in performances at Reading and Leeds Festival and had recording sessions at Peter Gabriel’s Real World studios with a top producer. He is about to embark on a national tour with The Sherlocks and will be releasing new music this year. Jonathan Kent (Class of 2013) Jonathan is currently in the fourth and final year of his integrated Masters degree at the University of Warwick, studying MORSE (Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics). In September he will be taking up a job at the Transport Research Laboratory in Wokingham, Berkshire, where he will be working as a Graduate Statistician. Hadley Stewart (2007-2014) Hadley has recently joined Attitude magazine, as an online columnist. He will be contributing to the awardwinning publication on a part-time basis, whilst he completes the final year of his university degree.

Newsletter Spring 2017

News of Former Staff Mervyn Brooker (Headmaster, 2000-2008) I have been fully retired for a couple of years, though the fact that I am still a Governor of old adversaries Wolverhampton Grammar School may raise an eyebrow or two. Sadly, WGS has come off Mervyn at the summit of second best for Mera Peak, Nepal, at 7am and -20°C, with Everest and some years now Lhotse in the distance on the sports field! My last gainful employment was as Education Adviser to the King Edward Foundation in Birmingham. Most topically, my final task was to design and establish its Opening Doors programme across the city. This has proved successful in attracting youngsters from disadvantaged homes to apply for the grammar

TIMES PAST Ten Years Ago A year of exceptional examination results at A Level and GCSE. The School is highly praised by the inspectorate for achievements in academic, extra-curricular and pastoral work. The Millennium Ketch, Tenacity of Bolton, is launched, the inspiration of Mr Mike Whitmarsh, who won the North West Teacher of the Year Award for enterprise. The Library records generous gifts from former pupils M Howe (1948-1956) and KR Walsh (1921-1928). Decoration and redevelopment of the library area are completed. The Charities Committee matches the record total giving of 2006. “Bolton School’s 2007 Science Festival brought science alive for youngsters across the borough.” “The Junior Literary and Debating Society has continued to attract scores of passionate young debaters.” The Bolton School Paper commended in 2005, highly commended in 2006, now achieves a distinction in the national Newsday competition. The U13 Cricket Team wins the County Cup

schools and is now seen as a model by Theresa May’s education advisors. Perhaps more interesting are my trips to the world’s major mountain ranges. Some may be aware that I was fortunate to have returned from Nepal shortly before the earthquake in April 2015. This was following my second trek to Everest Base Camp. Headmaster Philip Britton invited me to come to School to speak to the students about my experiences, as part of my fundraising efforts for the relief programme. I was grateful to the students and to Mr Teasdale and Wigan House in particular for their support in raising £500 to add to the £4000 my trekking partner and I had already sent. In fact the trek was the third of my four visits to Nepal. The most recent was in October 2016 and it involved trekking to the summit of Mera Peak; at 6,476 metres (22,130 feet) it is reputed to be the highest point to which one can walk in the Himalayas. Easily the most physically

taxing challenge I have faced, successfully reaching the summit entailed trekking through jungle and over glaciers and sleeping in a tent for two days at over 5,000 metres (and up to -20°C). At the age of 62 I was by some distance the oldest in our party to succeed. Since retiring, I have reached the summit of the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains of North Africa and in Iceland. I have scaled several volcanoes in Bolivia and Ecuador and I am due to trek in Patagonia in October. However, I suspect that scaling Mera Peak will end up being the true ‘summit’ of my ambitions. You never know. Bolton School, through its ethos and heritage, rekindled my enthusiasm for outdoor pursuits. I am sure that generations of Old Bolts will feel the same; I just hope that the younger ones will grab the opportunities earlier than I did!

Final. The 1st Xl tours Grenada and St Lucia.

frescoes by Fra Angelico.”

Daniel Sliwinski represents English Schools in the 100m breaststroke in the home international match in Scotland.

Trek Camp to Italy and Sicily: “Customs officials who feared that our tins of corned beef might contain ammunition for the Mafia ... sleeping in three railway vans in a siding thanks to the extreme cordiality of the station staff ... As dawn broke , the sight of three Greek temples, shining in the clear air was unforgettable.”

Twenty-Five Years Ago Science and Technology Departments receive Certificate of Distinction from the British Science Association. New School Express receives Daily Telegraph Award of Merit. Funding the Future: generous support is received from the Bolton School Society, Chloride Motive Power and the Royal Bank of Scotland. Evensong is presented in Latin, a traditional office, O Sapientia. Bay of Naples, Pompeii: “Perhaps the most eerie and memorable sights of all were the real preserved bodies of victims.” Toad: “The practical arrangements were so good that we forgot about them as we were led to the wild woods and the river.” Music Expedition to Canada. “... the singing of the Canadian national anthem at the start of the Blue Jays’ baseball game at the Sky Dome in Toronto.” Fifty Years Ago “We visited the Monastery of San Marco, the cells of which are decorated with many

Seventy-Five Years Ago Film Society shows A Day on the Soviet Front and Odessa Besieged. Lectures given by Lieutenant d’Ollande of the Free French Forces and by Pastor Karle of the German Confessional Church, The Religious Conflict in Germany. Production of Murder in the Cathedral: “The beauty of the Hall’s architecture was allowed to suggest the sense of cathedral quiet.” The Scientific Society studies amongst other matters photographic processes and thermionic valves. Modern Studies Group: “So far this term it has been possible to hold three meetings in French, German and English respectively.” One Hundred Years Ago Two soldiers in Flanders are reacquainted because one of them, JW Hindley (19071911) of RAMC, was carrying a copy of The Boltonian.

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

SEVENTY YEARS OF TOGETHERNESS Old Boy Harold Rothera (1939-1947) and his wife Marjorie (née Clegg, 1941-1948) bridged the Divisions when they got together in 1946. 70 years later, they remain indebted to Bolton School. Harold writes: Last year, we celebrated with a modest family lunch our seventy years of ‘togetherness’, which began with the first meeting of the School Dance Club in the Autumn Term of 1946. That joint enterprise of the two Divisions came as a surprise to both sets of Sixth Formers, since at that time School seemed more concerned daily with keeping us apart! All praise therefore to our The happy couple instructors, Mrs Netté, a teacher in the Boys’ Division, and her husband, who had succeeded in persuading Miss Varley and Mr Poskitt of the social value of ballroom dancing skills. They surely merit a toast at our 65th wedding anniversary celebration this year! Following our marriage in 1952, during my national service as an RAF Education Officer, Marjorie continued to teach domestic science at Gateway Girls’ Grammar/ Technical School in Leicester. Subsequently, my first post as a teacher of French, at King James’ Grammar School, Knaresborough, found us living in Harrogate. For a period, Marjorie taught part-time at Bradford Girls’ Grammar School, whose Head Teacher was seeking to emulate what her friend, Miss Varley, had created in the Girls’ Division at Bolton School! After that, a Head of Department post for me, at Sir Hugh Owen Grammar School, took us to Caernarfon, where our first child, Stephen, was born. We had become accustomed to moving around the country when an attractive university post for me brought us to Swansea, a city whose appeal grew ever greater to our growing family, with the birth of our two daughters. Unfortunately, once the children had become established in schools, a convenient teaching post for Marjorie never became available. However, the local athletics club availed itself of much of her time.

She became secretary and fundraiser for Swansea Harriers Supporters Club and a member of the Harriers’ management committee. Travelling at the weekends with women’s teams to various venues in England became a regular commitment. Everyone would agree that parenthood brings its changes and surprises. In our case, the commitment of our children and grandchildren to a variety of sports, athletics being but one, has added a totally unexpected dimension to our lives. Such aptitude had passed us by! Foreign travel, other than for academic purposes, was something of a luxury for us until I retired. Subsequently, one highpoint was an extended holiday in Canada, including time spent in Edmonton, Alberta, where Marjorie was born. A trawl of local records provided a fascinating insight into her father’s teaching career there in the 1920s and early 1930s. In Europe, annual visits to Crete and to the second home of our elder daughter and son-in-law in France became part of the pattern of our lives. I retired from my post as Head of the Department of Education at the University College of Swansea (University of Wales) in 1988. Now, however, the recent retirement of our son Still dancing after 70 years! Stephen at sixty (with that of his sisters, Vivienne and Alison, not all that far away) serves to remind us of all the other milestones that we have been fortunate enough to see in our seventy years together. Having frequently enjoyed School Alumni events in London and in Bolton, we regret very much that illhealth will prevent our attending this year the London Dinner and, most unfortunately, the 70-year Reunion.”

FREEMASONRY

of Bolton School, in the form of pupil Bursaries and Scholarships.

The Old Boltonians’ Masonic Lodge, No 5814, meets regularly in the Senior Library at School throughout the year. In line with the charitable intentions of the society, each year the Lodge provides support to both Divisions

Whilst membership of the Lodge has been opened up to other Freemasons, the majority of its members are Old Boltonians, providing a unique way of keeping in touch with fellow Old Boys. Members range in age from their 20s

to their 80s, providing friendship to fellow Masons of all generations. If you would like to hear more, please contact David Poppitt, the Lodge Secretary. E: DPoppitt@aol.com T: 07785 728700

Newsletter Spring 2017

MINI REUNIONS The Retirement Reunion The academic year 2016/2017 is the year in which the Class of 1963-1970 at Bolton School reaches retirement age and Rob Haworth (1963-1970) is organising a reunion during the weekend of 12th-13th May in Hull. He has picked Hull because it is close to where he lives and because this year the city of Kingston upon Hull is the UK’s city of culture. The plan is to meet on Saturday afternoon and visit the Ferens Art Gallery and Holy Trinity Church, the largest parish church in the UK, before dining together on Saturday evening. On Sunday morning a visit to The Deep, Hull’s spectacular aquarium (some may prefer to visit the William Wilberforce Museum), is planned, followed by lunch. Any of Rob’s contemporaries wishing to join the fun are invited to contact him either by email on rob_haworth@hotmail.co.uk.

Calling all 1963 Leavers! After the success of the 100/500 Reunion, Robin Magee (1953-1964) is planning a further gathering of the Class of 1963 this Autumn, in or close to Bolton. Suggested dates are either 30th September or 7th October. Any Old Boys wishing to take part should contact Robin on robin.magee1945@gmail.com.

‘Sixty years on...’: Joint Archaeological Society Reunion Seven former members from both Divisions joined Colin Harding’s (Boys’ Division Staff, 1957-1964) family, friends and former students of Roman Archaeology classes, at a celebration of his 90th birthday on 24th September 2016. The Joint Archaeological Society was started in 1957 to offer students of Latin, Geography and History an opportunity Ernie Marsh, Colin and David Allen entertain to appreciate the birthday gathering the scope of Rome’s conquest and development of the province of Britannia, as well as prehistoric and early medieval sites, and eventually the Roman frontier in Germany. Members helped with archaeological excavations run by Bolton and District Archaeological Society.

towns such as Wroxeter and Caerwent, Hadrian’s Wall and Offa’s Dyke, and many museums where curators would often allow handling of artefacts.

Trier Amphitheatre, c1961, L-R: Catherine Bankes, Colin Harding, Ernie Marsh, Rodney Pearson and George Bankes

The birthday gathering was entertained by a slide-show of Colin’s 90 years’ curriculum vitae, followed by slides of the School’s Archaeological Society’s expeditions – it was encouraging to comment that several society members carried on an interest in archaeology after leaving School! To relieve the possible tedium of a surfeit of slides, there were two musical interludes: a trio of Bolton School former staff rendered Offa’s Dyke, 1962: George Grasby (with pipe, Boys’ Division the Police Staff 1959-1980) Sergeant’s Song from the Pirates of Penzance, with two supplementary verses on “a digger’s life is not a happy one”. The finale was a spirited rendering of Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus – which should perhaps more appropriately be senes considering the age of the singers!

Low Borrow Bridge Roman Fort, 1961: Front row left, Colin 2nd row seated Margaret Walker 3rd row left George Grasby (staff), 4th from right Ernie Marsh, 5th from right Priscilla Grasby

Hadrian’s Wall, 1959: Top left, Rodney Pearson, top right Colin 2nd row end left, George Bankes. Front row 3rd from left, Priscilla Grasby

Seventeen field trips were organised during the period from 1957 to 1964, covering examples of Iron Age hill-forts, Roman

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

ARCHIVES Ask the Archivist Meet the Archivist

Eric Fairweather If you have a question about the School’s history or would like to donate to the Archive any photographs or artefacts from your time at School, Eric would love to hear from you. E: development@boltonschool.org

THE REMARKABLE MISS DRURY When Miss Kathleen Drury retired as Head of Beech House in the Summer of 1959 she had been at Bolton School for an unprecedented period of 45 years. Born on 4th February 1888, Miss Drury was brought up near Cardiff and attended the High School Cardiff before joining the Kindergarten Training Department of the University of Wales in 1906. Her first appointment was at Holton Road Infants School, Barry, in 1908, before moving to College School Cardiff in 1909, where she remained until her appointment as Kindergarten Mistress at Bolton School in 1914. She replaced Miss Holmes, but was obliged to live in lodgings because the room at West Craig, hitherto used by Miss Holmes, was now required as a classroom. The Kindergarten in the Preparatory Department had started in 1889, under the care of Miss Winckler, and at the time of Miss Drury’s appointment occupied one room at Park Road, which was also used as the dining room. There were 24 pupils upon her arrival, increasing to 36 in 1915 when the Department moved to Broomfield. By the time of the move to Beech House in 1928, pupil numbers had increased to approximately 80.

This article has been written at the request of David Heyes (1944-1958), but many other Alumni will have memories of this remarkable lady. Some will recall the beginning of the Autumn 1939 term when Beech House could not operate because the air raid shelters were not ready. Parents and staff pulled together to form group centres for lessons so that education was not unduly interrupted. Beech House finally re-opened on 7th November 1939. The War did not impact upon numbers – indeed, they continued to grow. The year 1941-1942 saw a record number of 106 pupils on the School roll. The Carol Service was held as usual at Christmas, but the lack of space meant that only a limited number of friends could be invited to participate. By 1943-1944 numbers had further risen to 130 and it was decided this ought to be a maximum. Sad though it was to refuse any child admittance, there was simply no way to extend the School. There was already a long waiting list for 1945 and parents who wished their children to enter were advised to get their names down in good time! Many Alumni will remember, too, the Beech House film that was produced in 1948 by Mr Higginson, which provided a fascinating picture of the children at work and play, both in their classrooms and in the playground. Open Days were always important events in the School calendar that

Miss Drury looked forward to, but that of 1957 was especially significant as it marked the celebration of the School’s 80th birthday. Fortunately the weather was fine and Beech House was able to carry out a full programme of singing, games and country dancing on the lawn. In 1959, 32 children volunteered to help with the Shilling Effort for the Appeal Fund. They were each given one shilling by the Old Girls’ Association and tasked to increase it as much as possible in aid of the Fund. They showed great initiative in rising to the challenge and collectively raised £31 and two shillings, an average of just under £1 per shilling. 1959 was to be Miss Drury’s last year at School and Lord Leverhulme attended her last Open Day on 17th June to make a retirement presentation to her. He remarked how Miss Drury had taught three generations of the same family, as in recent years she had been teaching the grandchildren of pupils she had taught when she first came to School. He described her as a person who had dedicated her life to young children and who had always commanded the respect, friendship and admiration of her pupils, their parents and her colleagues on the staff as well as the Governors. Miss Drury’s time at School had spanned two world wars and she had worked under four Chairmen of Governors and three Headmistresses. She was made a life member of the Old Girls’ Association in 1960, but did not have long to enjoy her retirement in South Wales as she died on 8th August 1961. A Memorial Service was held at Christ Church, Heaton, in September 1961, when the Rev AJ Beesley commented how the length of her service evidenced her deep love of Bolton, of Beech House, of Bolton School and of the friends and colleagues around her; so that to think of Beech House was to think of Miss Drury and to think of Miss Drury was to think of Beech House.

Newsletter Spring 2017

LOOKING BACK

John Brian ‘JB’ Holt (1950-1959) is one of the boys featured in the photographs accompanying the Star Letter in the Autumn 2016 edition and he has provided the following captions:

Back row L-R: David S Parr, Alfred Hart, David Norburn, Kerry A Holt, Robin Mitchell, A Barker and ‘Tich’ Gray. Front row L-R: Michael Green, Brian Holt, David Nuttall, ? Thomas and WH Stevenson

Mitchell, Back row L-R: Jack Hampson; Brian Holt; David Nuttall, Robin RD Lonsdale and Norman Leyland. and Front row L-R: ? Thomas; ‘Tich’ Gray, Michael Green, Andy Brabbin Eric Sharples

The photos prompted Brian to search among his own collection of old photographs and he found these pictures of Junior Camp at Grasmere c1952

Brian batting; wicket keeper is WE Kirby

Near Wray Castle – nearest the camera is WH Stevenson, the person in the light sweater is JRB Gould and Brian is right at the back

far left. Another cricket failure! Mr Still is wicket keeper, Brian is on the Mr Harrison can be seen to the right of the picture.

in this photo Nigel Wightman, who attended Beech House in the 1960s, sent bottom row. of Mrs Clapperton’s form c 1960 – Nigel is third from left on the the If anyone can identify any of the others featured, please contact Development Office!

Don’t forget to take a look at our ‘Scenes from the Past’ webpage on the School website, which we regularly update with new Archive photos: www.boltonschool.org

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

LIVES REMEMBERED Stanley Barlow Ashurst (1940-1946) Stan Ashurst entered Bolton School on a scholarship in 1940. He joined Shell A1 with 23 other boys, including several from Lancashire County. He was a popular member of the form and played football and cricket, principally the latter during his whole time at School. He went into the Sixth Form and took the Higher School Certificate and was called into the Royal Navy and joined a ship that was patrolling the East coast of Africa. After demobilisation he went to Sheffield University where he graduated in Law three years later. By this time he was married with one son who later emigrated to Canada. Stanley and his wife added two daughters to their family. In his spare time he had joined Egerton Cricket Club where he played and later was on the committee serving in various positions. He was a very popular figure in the club and in the village. For a time he and his wife went to live in Spain but they returned to Bolton to be with their daughters and grandchildren. He came to an Old Boys’ Lunch where he met up with Arthur Derbyshire and John Greenhalgh who had been at the same elementary school and in Shell A1. Unfortunately Stanley’s health began to fail and he died on 22nd January 2017; his funeral was very well attended, mainly by members of his family and the cricket club. Derek Eccles (1940-1947) Kenneth A Brooks (1950-1958) Kenneth Brooks, who died on 13th September 2016, aged 77, in Cheltenham, spent his whole career as a linguist at GCHQ, where he was a specialist in Chinese. During his years at School he played violin, clarinet and saxophone in the various School orchestras as well as The Ionians Dance Band which featured in the life of the School in the 1950s. Ken entered Bolton School from Deane Church CE Primary School and was a prominent member of the Middle School Orchestra under Jack Hughes on violin. Later Mr Hughes taught him alto saxophone and clarinet so that he was able to join the newly formed military band and later the full School orchestra. A student of the Arts, he studied Modern Languages and English

Literature to A Level, leaving to embark on National Service in the RAF. He was selected to study Chinese and, after a successful course, was posted to a signals unit in Hong Kong, where he was also able to exercise his musical talents with a swing group, which occasionally appeared on the local television station. He chose to stay with the job after demobilisation and took up a civilian role at GCHQ in Cheltenham, where he spent the rest of his career. Meantime he had married his boyhood love, Jean Horrocks, who worked at Wilfred Johnson, the women’s outfitter in Oxford Street, Bolton. They set up home in Cheltenham and reared a son and a daughter, Mike and Sue. Ken continued his intellectual pursuits, taking advantage of an opportunity to learn another language while on campus, and now he turned his attention to Russian. He also took up stamp collecting and developed an interest in horticulture, with pelargoniums his speciality. In 2001 he was widowed when Jean succumbed to a brain tumour. He continued to live at the Cheltenham bungalow they had so much enjoyed, and now with just the company of his faithful German Shepherd dog, Rosie. It was not until 2005 that he was rediscovered by a group of his old band fellows from the Ionians, and when he heard there was to be a playing reunion he hot-footed it up to Bolton on a £5 excursion ticket on an intercity bus. He revelled in meeting up with his old friends and looked forward to a repeat. Ken had never learned to drive and he was indeed grateful to fellow Ionians members Mike Hill and Keith Barnes for bringing him up to Bolton on subsequent occasions, on the latter visit enjoying a tour of School in the company of Laura Firth. During that visit it transpired that he liked to do the Daily Telegraph weekend crosswords and from that date until a few months before his death we exchanged ideas on clues and possible solutions. One day he reported receiving a package containing a diary and a pen.

He had obtained a second prize from what was just a casual submission to The Telegraph. Although mostly alone he continued to practise his clarinet and saxophone, and to play the DVD that had been made at the band’s 2010 reunion, and he claimed his playing was well received by his neighbours as he enjoyed a nightly practice before retiring. He went off the air for a few weeks in 2016 and when he reappeared he reported that he had been in hospital in Gloucester for seven weeks. He was most concerned that he was now unable to move his fingers over his sax and clarinet keys as before. When last we spoke he was still asking when the next band reunion would be. It appeared his passing had been inevitable as he had suffered cancer of the liver and lungs. Ken was a very staunch friend. During my own National Service my widowed father moved into a small apartment with no room for my piano. Ken arranged for it to be stored at the home of his Aunty Doris until my return to Bolton. In the late 1950s the band recorded a few numbers with the help of the Harker and Howarth music store. One of the tunes chosen was a solo rendering by Ken of Duke Ellington’s In a Sentimental Mood. It is an apt epitaph to a fine musician and gentleman. Trumpet player Peter Gilbert (19461959) represented us at his committal at Cheltenham crematorium, and he reported a good attendance of neighbours, former colleagues and associates, when tributes were made to his regular weekend commitment to a local garden centre and his expertise in calligraphy with a brush, probably resulting from his Chinese studies. His stamp collection was considered important and had necessitated calling in experts from Stanley Gibbons to

Newsletter Spring 2017

value it. Ionians members made financial contributions to the family’s chosen charity, Cancer Research. In addition to his son and daughter, Ken Brooks had three grandchildren, Emily, Holly and Milly, and two greatgrandchildren, Joshua and Zachary. His younger brother, Peter, still lives in Bolton. We offer our condolences to them all. Ken Mather (1948-1956) Raymond Denson (1935-1942) I am sorry to inform you that Raymond Denson died on 16th August 2016, at the age of 91. He graduated from Bolton School in 1945, and went on to Manchester University to study Engineering. After spending three years as a production engineer with Shell Oil in Venezuela he went to Canada to study medicine at McGill University in Montreal. He took a specialty in Psychiatry, and spent 54 years practising in various aspects of his profession. Bolton School made a huge, lifelong impression on him, so much so that he sent his son Frank to spend a year there in 1982. Molly Denson Richard Eastham (1964-1973, and Boys’ Division Staff 1984-2012) Richard Eastham, who has died at the age of 61, was a Boltonian through and through: a proud son of the town in which he was born and brought up, and an even prouder member of Bolton School itself, which he attended as a pupil, and of which he later became a long-serving, highly respected and much loved member of the teaching staff. Richard had many fine qualities, but he will be remembered by all principally for his kindness, his tolerance, his patience, his professionalism, his sense of fun and his downright goodness. He truly was a man without guile. ‘A man without guile’ is a curious little phrase that is seen only a handful of times in the Bible. It describes a person who is plain-speaking, honest, and without agendas or strings of any kind attached to what he says or does - in

other words an individual of the utmost integrity. Richard was exactly that, and it was my privilege and delight to know him extremely well for more than half his life. Although at primary school many of my generation were enjoined by a succession of scary English teachers (invariably female) never to use the word ‘nice’ (it being perceived as an adjective of inadequate descriptive power), I ignore that injunction now to state unequivocally that Richard Eastham was one of the nicest men I have ever met. The nicest of the nice, in fact. We started work together in the Boys’ Division on the same day in 1984, Richard as a teacher of piano, I as Director of Music. During our 15 years in the department, School music took a number of different directions, and at every turn we worked collaboratively to ensure that, with the pupils at the heart of things, the needs of the individual were always paramount, and only the best was acceptable. Aided and abetted by some wonderful colleagues, Boys’ Division Music grew into what it is today - a powerhouse of excellence and the envy of day schools across the country. Whatever was achieved then and subsequently owed much to Richard’s determination, his vision and his wholehearted commitment always to achieve the finest possible outcomes for all - and, most importantly, to make music accessible to everyone, regardless of talent or ability, whether modest or immense. The school owes him a huge debt, and that is graphically underlined by the affection and respect in which he is held by scores of previous pupils. Here are some of the many tributes to him recorded on Facebook in the days following his untimely death: “Mr Eastham was a brilliant, kind man, who delighted in seeing his pupils progress and in helping them achieve their goals. One of my fondest memories of studying at Bolton School was dancing around his tiny office after learning of my first Biology AS Level result. Even when it wasn’t concerning his subject, Mr Eastham was always keen to listen to his pupils. A true father figure within the school. He will be sadly missed, I’m sure. Thanks for everything, Mr Eastham. Rest in peace.” “Very sad news. I was about as musically gifted as a purple anteater missing all its limbs, but I remember Mr Eastham as a kind and gentle soul. RIP, Sir.” “Probably wouldn’t have pursued music throughout school if not for this man.

Inspirational, influential and a blessing on Bolton School. RIP.” “RIP, Richard - an exceptionally kind, diligent and inspiring teacher. I am particularly grateful to him for taking the time to coach me through theory exams - in itself, an act of brilliant patience.” “Mr Eastham really surpassed any normal expectations of what a teacher should be. He was a mentor to each and every pupil that he came into contact with, and I think we all feel privileged to have known him.” “What a lovely bloke.” “He’ll go down as one of the all-time greats.” Richard, that utterly guileless man, was indeed a truly remarkable fellow, and the times that we spent together were among the happiest of my life. He possessed a ready wit, a wonderful gift for mimicry, a self-effacing character and a capacity for friendship which was unparalleled. Both during our years at Bolton School and then subsequently, Richard, Jeremy Bleasdale (the current Boys’ Division Director of Music), Ian Dawkins and I met at least twice a year for a convivial lunch, hosted by each one of us in turn, when much merriment ensued, and many anecdotes were traded, and news of family and friends exchanged. Our last get-together took place during the October halfterm break of 2016; and when at the very last minute it became clear that Richard was not well enough to join us, we all agreed that the gathering which followed had a flatness about it which owed everything to the much regretted absence of our dear friend. Richard was a gourmet, an accomplished cook and a highly knowledgeable wine buff, and to all of these gatherings he brought an appreciation of the finer things in life, which spurred each of us on to ever higher aspirations in our own pursuit of the ultimate goal of having a thoroughly good time. And, of course, he was a fine musician, with eclectic tastes and an encyclopaedic knowledge of the repertoire, which went far and away beyond his own specialism of the piano. He shared all of this expertise with us, and we became more informed and knowledgeable as a result. But Richard Eastham was not just a friend and colleague of unique quality. He was first and foremost a devoted husband to Helen, a loving father to John and Kate, and a dutiful son to his mother Florence, all of whom survive

Old Boltonians’ Association 1895 - 2017

him. Our thoughts are with them at this sad time, as they manage their grief, and strive to come to terms with their irreparable loss. Ian Dawkins used to talk about how, when we met, the conversation was frequently wide-ranging, and often verged on the esoteric, with repeated mentions of the fabulously fictional Mrs Dongelmanns, aeroplanes and cruise liners (Richard) existing alongside gripping yarns about eccentric clergymen, music examining encounters, both at home and abroad, and the trials and tribulations of running a ceramic tile business in dreary old Blackburn (me) - the whole peppered with occasional utterances (appropriately accented) in French, Latin, Welsh and Afrikaans (all of us). (And should these last observations be thought by some to be a vain attempt to secure a small entry in Private Eye’s Pseuds’ Corner column, then let me leave you with a final comment - in Latin, of course - which I believe sums Richard up to a T: he truly was ‘sui oblitus, aliorum semper studiosus’. And what more can be said about a man than that?) Rest in peace, Richard. You are much missed and your passing is deeply mourned. Colin Edmundson Boys’ Division Director of Music, 1984-1999 George Farnworth (1942-1957)

On a grey day in March 1945, two seven year old boys stood in a cheering crowd on the steps of Bolton Town Hall and watched in awe as King George VI and Queen Elizabeth walked past only a few feet away, aiming to talk to a group of RAF wounded further down the line. The two were George Farnworth and me, wearing regulation Bolton School uniforms including the obligatory cap. We can just about be seen in the picture taken by a Bolton Evening News photographer (see above). How we managed to gain such a privileged view of the Royals remains a mystery although it may have had something to

do with the fact that I had an uncle who was a senior RAF officer responsible for the upkeep and supervision of aircraft components stored in various redundant cotton mills up and down Lancashire. Strings must have been pulled! Other memories of George Farnworth are of us walking together down Mornington Road through rain, hail, snow and sunshine, to get to School. I lived in Doffcocker and George’s father ran a grocery and general provisions store on Chorley Old Road. We would meet at the Ivy Road bus stop and trudge our way through the canyon of Musgraves’ enormous mills and spinning sheds, timing our walk so that we reached School at about a quarter to nine, just before ‘first bell’. George was a boy in advance of his time with the stunning miracles he performed as a gymnast over the apparatus during House competitions. Here was an athlete of incredible virtuosity, seemingly defying the laws of gravity and probably of physics. He was also the most enthusiastic of swimmers, pounding through the water with skill and incredible energy. As for field sports, he took to rugby rather than football, a lithe but tough side-stepper of any opponent and, despite his lack of size, a player from whom those inclined to tackle him found themselves bounced to one side with no hope of catching him. But George was no mere macho sportsman. He had an intellect and sensitivity which drew him into a love of poetry and drama. He performed in many a School play and went on to study the whys and wherefores of the theatre at what was in his day Loughborough College of Technology. These combined talents and interests turned him into a first rate teacher at the former Preston Grammar School, at a tough comprehensive in Leicestershire and at Bolton College of Technology. I remember watching his face light up in later years when we went to see War Horse at a theatre in London. George had already had military experience of his own as a National Serviceman, notably in Kenya and Aden. He told me that he had learned many lessons from this, as varied as the cost of single mortar shell, and the corruption of local officials as they ignored the plight of the poor in Nairobi’s slums. It made him very angry. He knew about soldiering and War Horse brought a lot of it back to him.

and penning his own moving verses. Like all of us he had his ups and downs and a series of debilitating physical problems in old age. But his throaty chuckle never left him especially when he heard a good joke or a story he regarded as too tall for its own good. He was loyal to the School to the last, a frequent attender of Old Boys’ lunches and one who always expressed his gratitude for those who had guided him through boyhood, whether teachers or fellow students. He was a true Old Bolt. Jack Thompson (1946-1957) Eric Smith Lord (1942-1948) Eric Lord came to Bolton School in September 1942: he was a member of the Scout Troop and went to all the camps. After School he worked in the Gold Coast (Ghana) and was joined by his wife Mavis (née Cocker, Girls’ Division 1943-1950). On returning to Bolton they lived in Astley Bridge and Heaton. Years later, when Eric was living near Clitheroe, he fell ill and returned to Bolton where he died. Eric did his National Service with the infantry in the King’s Own (Lancaster) Regiment. He served in Korea where he saw action. On returning to the UK for demobilisation he continued to serve in the Territorial Army beyond the required time and rose up the ranks. He was a well-known figure in the local villages in North Lancashire. He returned to Bolton to be near his sister and died in Bolton. His children and grandchildren were at the funeral. We were reminded that he had been a very keen and able golfer. We left the crematorium to the stirring notes of his regimental march D’ye ken John Peel. Derek Eccles (1940-1947) Ralph M Tatlock (1956-1961) It is with much sadness that I have to report the death of one of my old friends and classmates, Ralph Tatlock, who died at his home in York in early January this year with his family at his side. Like me, Ralph was a member of Roger Kirk’s first class as form master and attended the lunch members of the class gave for Roger a couple of years ago. Although exiled over the border in Yorkshire for the last 40 years, Ralph maintained an interest in both the School and Bolton Wanderers, and I am sure he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him at School and beyond. Rod Lonsdale (1956-1961)

George went on to live quietly at his home in Lostock, still reading widely

Newsletter Spring 2017

Frank Bryan Whittle (1940-1948)

2nd XI, 1947, back L-R: G Travis, GW Harrison, FB Whittle, G Robertson, IG Black, JR Bell; front L-R: JH C Openshaw, AE Gurney, RG Burgess, GS Smith, R Berry Frank Bryan Whittle – ‘Bunny’ to the many people he knew throughout his long life – was a genuine original. Well-mothered – by a powerful loving personality – and firmly guided by his father, also an Old Boltonian, Bryan emerged as a gifted, confident boy, a pupil at the excellent primary school, Church Road Council School (alma mater also to Stanley Wright (1940-1948) and Fred Wadsworth (1940-1948). All these won scholarships at Bolton School, which is where I met Bunny for the first time, by virtue of being hijacked with him from the School’s well-manned body of boy sopranos (by that brilliant genius of a Music Master, Dr Noel McAdam) into the church choir of Christ Church, Heaton. Bunny and I had quite a few other activities in common. We both did well at gymnastics and both captained our House Gym VIII. Bryan was a very strong swimmer – he was the star of Chorley House and the Schools’ water-polo team. In a match against Bolton School’s big rival – Manchester Grammar – he broke the School’s record for breast stroke. He was an all-round sportsman, representing his house, and as a young teenager became left-back of the School’s 2nd XI soccer team. I partnered him at rightback, and the team had the unique honour of going two seasons unbeaten. The Boltonian dubbed the two of us ‘a

pair of rugged backs’! In his final season he was promoted to Captain of the 2nd XI. Bunny was an active and popular member of the School’s Dramatic Society, with a predisposition for character parts. Casting was automatic when roles like Falstaff, Bottom or Caliban were being cast; and Bunny’s first Gravedigger had the last night’s audience for Hamlet in stitches as he improvised his dialogue with the young Dane (Irving Wardle, 1942-1947) because we under-stage electricians kept moving Yorick’s skull away from his grasp! Bunny spent almost his whole School life as a Scout in one of the School’s three versions of 19th Bolton Troop. He became a School Monitor in his final year, and won a place at St Peter’s Hall in Oxford. His year at Oxford was marred by illness, and he went on to a successful career at Durham University where he enjoyed the rare honour of being elected as President of the Union. Bunny was one of the School’s great ‘characters’. He was genial, positive, loyal, friendly, reliable, and competent. He was also slightly vulnerable and, as a result, rather loveable; he was indeed well-loved, by staff and School fellows alike. In those days, the late 1940s and early 1950s, the natural progression of a young man of 18 years was National Service – and, unless you had fallen arches or emphysema, everyone had to do it. Bryan was duly called up into the Army; to be precise, the Manchester Regiment – a celebrated regiment of the PBI (poor bloody infantry). And by a remarkable stroke of serendipity, who should have been recruited also into the Manchester, but Stanley Wright. Their exploits together in the British Army of the Rhine, are sadly too raffish to be related in this solemn obituary, but will doubtless send some grandson giggling off to his slumber, sometime in the future.

Sharp readers will have noted that the chronology of this piece has gone a bit skew-whiff. His University years at Durham, came after his two years with the Manchesters, and not before. So by the time he had graduated and gone to teaching college, he was a mature young man of 23, though perfectly prepared, in fact, for his first job, teaching English in Bolton. Progress soon followed, to a senior job as Head of English at a Reading school, where he spent four years; then back to Lancashire – Blackburn, in fact, which proved to be a stepping stone to his final teaching post as Housemaster at Hayward Grammar School. He suffered (my word, not Bryan’s, indicating my clear bias in the great Grammar School debate!) from the realignment of school organisations in Bolton – and Hayward Grammar became a Comprehensive School and selection at 11-plus ceased. Bryan stayed on, maintaining his high academic standards as Head of Fifth Year, and he was still there when he opted for early retirement in 1987. He had married well – to the charming Adrienne, who arrived, at 23, from Cheltenham, and entered that bevy of Bolton beauties setting the pace in Heaton’s trendy social set. Adrienne bore him two lovely daughters, Abigail and Amelia, who after Bolton School duly produced grandpa Bryan’s little dividend: three grandsons and a grand-daughter. Bunny was always destined to be a good family man – a loyal, affectionate and proud spouse, a loving parent and grandparent … and a warm and caring old friend. It was absolutely typical of him that he could remember the names of my children and grandchildren, when I could barely do it myself. He was a lovely man – and we shall miss him. Ronald Lowe (1939-1947)

IN MEMORIAM

James Philip Horan (Former Boys’ Division Staff) - Died 9th June 2016

Peter A Bradley (1945-1953) - Died 15th November 2016

Henry Noblett (1935-1940) - Died 19th December 2016

Alan W Brookes (Class of 1963) - Died 25th March 2017

L Cedric Parry (1942-1949) - Died 20th February 2017

Rod Chadwick (1942-1950) - Died 6th March 2017

Raymond Selwyn Shorrock (1948-1958) - Died 11th October 2016

Arthur Derbyshire (1939-1945) - Died 5th February 2017

Lewis Smith (Class of 2007) - Died 8th May 2016

Alexander Gordon (1932-1939) - Died 19th March 2017

Trevor L Smith (1950-1955) - Died 1st December 2016

Andrew Greenhalgh (1971-1978) - Died 14th January 2017

David Walton (Former Boys’ Division Staff) - Died 23rd July 2016

Bill Harrison (Former Boys’ Division Staff) - Died 23rd February 2017

Keith Webster (Class of 1953) - Died 7th November 2016

Denis Dewhurst Hilton (1934-1942) - Died 27th September 2016

John Tregarthen Wheeler (Class of 1968) - Died 29th October 2016

John Derek Hyde (Former Boys’ Division Staff) - Died February 2017 Brian Livesey (1939-1946) - Died 15th November 2016

THE

BUGLE Old Boltoniansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association Spring Newsletter 2017

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