Old Fettesian Newsletter 2021

Old Fettesian Newsletter 150th Anniversary Edition No.66, July 2021

150th Anniversary Edition No.66, July 2021

CONTENTS 2 3 4

Message from the President Message from the OF Coordinator Reflections Upon the Centenary of the OFA

8 9 10 12 13 14 16 18 20 21 22 24 26 30 31 32 34 40 44 47

Welcome to Our Newest Old Fettesians Fettes: Our Place The Archivist’s Top Ten Treasures Oldest Old Fettesian A View from the Common Room Connecting and Supporting Each Other Fettes Across the Generations Fettesian Succession Iain Macleod Award The Watt Memorial Trust

50th Anniversary of Girls at Fettes Message from the Head House Life during the Pandemic Old Fettesian Golfing Society OF Shooting Report Commemoration Weekend 2020 150th Anniversary of Fettes College Letters to Sir William Fettes Fettes at the Olympics Old Fettesian Events 2020–2021

52 54 60 62 80 80

OF Regional Representatives OF News Pandemic Hero Sadly Departed OFA Office Bearers The Fettesian Trust

All website links throughout this newsletter are available to access from the ‘Resources’ section on the Fettes Community Portal (fettescommunity.org/resources) or from www.fettes.com/familyforlife/alumni

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Henry Cave (SH 1980–1984) The last twelve months have been a challenge, however, there have been some major events in the life of Fettes.

The College has turned 150, it’s 50 years since the first girls arrived at school, the Old Fettesian Association is now 100 years old, and we all appear to have been ‘Gated’ in our own homes by Covid-19.

Life goes on and nowhere more so than at Fettes where the school has adapted to continue to provide a first-class quality education whilst, at the same time, making every effort to ensure that the students who are lucky enough to attend the College appreciate their good fortune and, as a result, bear it with humility and composure. I was fortunate enough this year to be able to attend the school to interview members of the 5th Form for the Evan Weir Citizenship Prize.

The students I met during the process were balanced, well rounded, pleasant people with whom it was a pleasure to spend time.

I sincerely hope that over the next year we can meet in person as an Association and that we have the opportunity to attend our old school to experience what a kind, helpful and well-resourced place that it is today.

On behalf of the entire Old Fettesian community I would like to take this opportunity to thank Amanda Forsyth (née Baker) (Ar 1982–1984) for all the work that she has done on the OFA Committee as President, Vice President and as a long-standing member. Usually, I would have had the opportunity to give those thanks at Commem in October 2020, but as we are aware, the short initial lockdown in the spring of that year has now extended on and off for a period of over 15 months and the Commem 2020 reunion years have yet to gather.

As you will know, Fettes, along with many other Scottish boarding schools, has been participating in the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry, an investigation into historic abuse going back some 75 years. This is a live Inquiry that is due to conclude at the end of the year and as such cannot be commented on at this stage. I can say that Fettes has made a public apology to those who were not treated as well as they should have been at times in the past.

Very sadly the original plans to celebrate Fettes’ special anniversary year, were not to be. Once it became clear we could not celebrate together in person, the programme went online and a series of excellent, and very well received,

virtual events took place. A beautiful film, to celebrate 150 years of Fettes College was produced and has been enjoyed by over 4,000 members of our community.

In addition, the OFA has published our own book Fettes: Our Place, OFs have run themselves ragged competing in ‘Fit in February’ and they have taken part in a global golf competition. I would like to thank Karen Jones (née Houston) (Ar 1989–1991, Staff 2012–present), the Fettes Community Engagement Manager, who project managed the anniversary programme and our new OF Coordinator, Vivienne Clark (Staff 2020–present), who, since her appointment last August, has worked closely with Karen to deliver all that has been achieved in lieu of the original plans.

In true Fettes style, we were determined to ‘carry on’ resulting in an array of opportunities for OFs to stay in touch and to remain connected to the school. These included the Fettes Community Portal (www.fettescommunity.org) and podcast channel and virtual events celebrating 150 years of International Rugby, 50 years of Girls at Fettes, Fettes golf, the College Archives and a wonderful Carol Service.

We have seen our social media following grow during this past year and again I must thank Vivienne for all she does to keep us updated. For those of you with Twitter, the OFA can tweet news and events directly to your smart phone from @Oldfettesians and @fettescommunity. If you have not done so already, please do follow us!

Last October, we held our first virtual Annual General Meeting, resulting in some 90 people signing up to attend from as far away as Stockbridge, China and Zimbabwe.

In October 2021 we will be holding another virtual AGM and we hope many OFs from all over the world will be able to join us for that.

Rest assured we will make plans for the Commem 2020 reunion years to gather on campus as soon as it is safe to do so. As we go to print, it is too early to say with any certainty that Commem 2021 will go ahead in October, but we will be in touch with reunion years as soon as we are able.

Having said that, I do hope that restrictions ease to allow us to gather again in person. Whether this be at Fettes or for regional OFA events throughout the UK and across the globe.

I look forward to meeting many Old Fettesians when these resume.

My final thank you is to each and every OF who has stuck by us and supported us during these turbulent times.

Whether you have attended a virtual event, watched the 150th anniversary film, bought a copy of Fettes: Our Place, joined our new digital community, followed us on social media, listened to a podcast or are reading this Newsletter right now, I am delighted you have taken some time to remember Fettes in such a special year. Floreas Fettesia!

Henry Cave President of the OFA President.OFA@fettes.com

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

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MESSAGE FROM THE OF COORDINATOR Vivienne Clark (Staff 2020–present) Starting a new job at any time is an exciting and nerveracking experience. Add a global pandemic into the mix and it creates a whole other dimension, but the team at Fettes College and the OFA Committee could not have been more welcoming. It has been nearly a year since I joined the Development Team on 24th August 2020 and what a year it has been. Tucked away in our offices under the Old Music Room, we have been busy planning virtual events, creating podcasts, sharing updates on social media and engaging with Old Fettesians and the wider Fettes community. I would have loved to have met more of you in person this year but hopefully I will get the opportunity to do this soon.

A few months before I joined the team, the Fettes Community Portal was launched, and we now have over 1,800 members signed up. One of the focuses of my work since I joined is helping OFs to connect and engage across the regions. To do that I have been having some wonderful conversations with OF Regional Representatives and setting up regional groups on the portal where OFs can plan events and share memories. There are always more groups being added so make sure you keep an eye out for your regional group appearing on Fettes Community. Thank you to all the OF Regional Reps for their help and support with this project.

Being the OF Coordinator in the year in which we have celebrated the 150th anniversary of Fettes and 50 years of girls joining the school has been a privilege and required me to hit the ground running. In the week leading up to 11th September 2020, the 50th anniversary of welcoming our first girl, I prepared and published 18 posts across Twitter and Facebook. The final anniversary image of the flag flying was also shared on LinkedIn, where there were 4,563 impressions, 167 reactions and 19 new followers as a result.

Less than a month later, it was time to celebrate the 150th birthday of Fettes College. The anniversary weekend was not as we had originally planned as we would have loved to have the campus filled with OFs, but the 5th October was a special day nonetheless. You can read all about how we celebrated from page 34. One standout moment for me during this day was the first school photo re-enactment. In the afternoon, we gathered 53 Third Form students and the Senior Leadership Team in front of the West arcades. While they all arranged themselves into position, armed with a blown-up copy of the original image, I set about finding the exact angle the original photograph was taken from. After some deliberation with the school photographer, I settled on the final spot. Standing on the exact spot the photographer would have stood on 150 years ago was a poignant moment.

I paused to reflect on what Fettes would have been like in those days, how the carvings remained largely the same bar a bit of weather damage, and how many Fettesians would have walked along those arcades in the last 150 years during their daily life. That type of moment is hard to recreate and will be one that stays with me for a long time.

One of my favourite aspects of the job, and one of the main reasons I applied to join Fettes, is connecting with OFs. When Roger Muirhead MBE MRCVS (Mo 1935–1939), the oldest OF we are in touch with, turned 100 on 17th April 2021, I sent him a letter, a card and a gift to wish him happy birthday from everyone at Fettes. He wrote a wonderful letter back which you can see on page 12, and a few weeks later I had a conversation with Roger on the telephone.

Speaking to someone who had been at the school in the late 1930s, fought through WWII and then had a remarkable career is very special and something I would never have imagined doing before I myself became a member of this warm and generous Fettes community.

As we move through into the next academic year, the lay of the land here in Edinburgh is still uncertain and we cannot say for sure when we will be able to welcome OFs back to our beautiful campus. However, regardless of restrictions moving forward, we are planning to offer a range of virtual events to allow OFs from across the globe to join in. In the future we hope our virtual event programme will run alongside our physical events calendar. The return of gatherings on campus, such as the all-important Commem weekend, will happen when we are safely able to run them and I, for one, cannot wait for that day.

My main goal overarching everything I do is to help keep OFs connected to each other and to Fettes. If there is ever anything you think I can do to help with that, please do not hesitate to get in touch using the details below.

With my very best wishes,

Vivienne Clark, OF Coordinator ofa@fettes.com +44 (0)131 311 6741

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

REFLECTIONS UPON THE CENTENARY OF THE OFA

My hope for the OFA for the next 100 years is that it will continue and flourish, enabling the Fettes community to prosper worldwide – Floreas Fettesia!

And so it began, one hundred years ago, on 24th June 1921, the establishment of our Old Fettesian Association, the worldwide association that has kept OFs connected together across the generations far beyond their school days. Initial gatherings took the format of dinners and speeches and there were annual Old Fettesian matches against the school in rugby and cricket.

To help us mark the Centenary of the OFA, we contacted all living former Presidents and are delighted that each one of them provided a contribution reflecting their time at the helm.

Kenneth A MacKinnon (Gl 1948–1954) President of the OFA 1988–1990 It was my humble privilege to follow in my father's footsteps at Fettes, which was then continued by my son and daughter attending there too. I joined the OFA taking the opportunity to give something back to the school to recognise the pleasure and many benefits of my family's association with Fettes over three generations.

Key dates in the Old Fettesian Association 1879 First Annual Dinner was held on 28th June, just nine years after the school opened and over 40 years before the OFA was established.

1889 First Edition of the Fettes Register was produced.

Subsequent editions were produced by the nominated ‘Keeper of the Register’. We have much to be thankful for the meticulous recording of those who have attended the school, which was no mean feat in the many years of pen, paper and airmail. It’s much easier now that we have email, social media, a database and the Fettes Community Portal.

1907 First Annual Old Fettesian Dinner in London when 44 OFs got together under the chairmanship of Stewart G Ponsonby (SH 1870–1876). This is where musings began about the establishment of an Old Fettesian Association.

1921 Inaugural meeting of the Old Fettesian Association at Fettes on 24th June 1921.

Alan A Waddell (Ca 1946–1951) President of the OFA 1994–1996 Fettes has been a great pleasure for me throughout my life, and I hugely enjoyed my time as President of the OFA. It gave me the chance to meet many Fettesians of different eras, and to learn more about the school’s ongoing progress. Clearly one highlight of each year is Commem – I have greatly enjoyed being involved in these weekends, particularly the dinners when there are so many Fettesians and very considerable noise!

For me, the OFA has always been about linking the ex-students and the school and hoping to support both.

Looking forward, I hope that the school continues to prosper and that its pupils keep close links with each other, helped via the OFA. Iain H Nicholson (Ca 1953–1957) President of the OFA 2000–2002 I joined the OFA Committee appreciating what Fettes had given to me and to add what I could do for Fettes. In the next 100 years, I hope the OFA will continue to promote and support the school with particular emphasis on providing a bridge for pupils leaving school into an ever-changing society. The most memorable occasion for me as President of the OFA was the Old Fettesian Regional Dinner in Vancouver arranged

1927 First Old Fettesian Dinner in Edinburgh was held in the Albyn Rooms on Queen Street on June 24th, the night before Founder’s Day. 1934 At the OFA Committee Meeting on 29th June 1934 the Committee agreed to the production of an OF tie – ‘The tie selected was composed of the School colours, viz. chocolate with a narrow magenta band’.

1952 First OF Commemoration Weekend. OF teams had matches against the School in rugby, hockey, golf, squash and shooting, there was ‘tea’ in Houses at 5pm followed by what has become an Annual Dinner.

1957 Establishment of the Old Fettesian Golfing Society under the presidency of Ronald M Carnegie (Ca 1920–1925).

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for my visit, revived after many years, when Old Fettesians flew in from parts of British Columbia to meet the President and hear of activities and achievements at the school. As an Old Fettesian I am proud of Fettes College providing high academic standards and a balanced education producing pupils who are both confident and unpretentious.

Ian B Rae (Gl 1961–1965) President of the OFA 2002–2004 I first joined the OFA Committee under Alan Waddell’s presidency. I enjoyed getting involved in helping the school and OFs where I was able to. Probably the most significant happening was the construction of Westwoods Health Club.

This was an expensive project for the school. Our committee was instrumental in arranging a large sum of money from the Fettesian Trust to help the project along the way. The other project which I was keen to get under way was the rectification of Sir William Fettes’ Tomb in Canongate Churchyard, which had come into great disrepair. We got this underway and it was only with the immense help from Alastair Salvesen (Mo 1954–1960) that this was completed in around 2005. Well worth a visit, particularly this year!

J Chris Faux (Gl 1953–1958) President of the OFA 2004–2006 As President I enjoyed the huge camaraderie amongst Old Fettesians.

I took great reassurance that Fettes was continuing to uphold a level of excellence for all students, not just the very bright ones. I recollect the OF dinners and speakers, and without doubt the Remembrance Day wreath laying at the Memorial advising us to Carry On. We shall and we will. Looking to the future of the OFA, there must be continued high standards and an excellent relationship with all staff both present and previous.

J Alister Aitkenhead (Ca 1964–1969) President of the OFA 2006–2008 The highlight of my OFA years was the attendance of General John de Chastelain (CW 1950–1955) as Guest Speaker at a Glasgow Dinner. His memorable address was followed by one of our regulars taking the microphone, looking at the General and singing the first few lines of My Way. While the role of the OFA will continue to evolve, I have always taken the view that it is a cornerstone of the Fettes community. If anything, the Association’s position in my opinion has been strengthened in the era of social media.

It would take something more than a crystal ball to speculate over the development of the OFA in the coming century. However, I have no doubt that the Association will remain a key ingredient in strengthening the College’s position as one of the leading independent schools in the world.

It is my earnest hope that the 250th anniversary celebrations of the College are not affected by another pandemic nor Indyref 20.

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Ian R Gardiner (Mo 1963–1968) President of the OFA 2008–2010 I had great fun as President of the OFA. I believe the role of the Association is to encourage all Fettesians to keep in touch with the school and with each other. This is best done by having lots of parties and games and persuading people to participate. I was also very keen that we should make ourselves more relevant to both female and younger OFs. Happily, Susan Evans (née Young) (JS-Ar 1985–1992) agreed to be my Vice President and so, not only was I succeeded by the first female President, but one of the youngest ever: two birds with one stone! I particularly relished telling Sixth Formers about the OFA. But the most memorable event was the unveiling of the bust of Lord Harry Woolf (CW 1946-1951), the Lord Chief Justice, who came accompanied by Bill Blair (Ki 1963–1968), now Sir William Blair and brother of his better-known younger sibling. Bill and I had shared the same history set for two years and it was wonderful to see him again after half a century.

Susan A Evans (née Young) (JS-Ar 1985–1992) President of the OFA 2010–2011 I served the OFA Committee for a decade before being elected the first female President in 2010. There was plenty of warm banter about being the only woman at the table in the Old Library initially, however I was not the first to have been there and it was not long before Nichola Lyons (née Bowie) (JS-CE 1984–1990), Tori McCusker (née Wickes) (SH 1985–1990) and Barbara Jones (née Laing) (CE 1990–1991) joined to balance the scales.

Lively debate followed over the coming years as we looked to publicise and widen the net for younger generations of OFs at existing and new events. It was my pleasure to launch the Edinburgh branch of the OFA with some 150 OFs, partners and friends enjoying drinks and good conversation on a spring evening at Ryan’s Bar. The role of the OFA Coordinator expanded widely and many hours were spent with Carolyn Rattray (Staff 2000–2005), followed by Dawn Beaumont (Staff 2005–2015), who worked tirelessly to support the Committee in their role assisting Regional Representatives old and new.

Technology was changing for the better and we pushed on with accessing the updated database which, by the time I was President, gave us many more opportunities to connect with OFs across the globe. The magazine expanded and became a bumper issue, and we offered OFs as many opportunities and as much support as possible to get together wherever they were and whatever the gathering.

It was my absolute pleasure and privilege to judge the OFA citizenship prizes on several occasions, and amongst other highlights were being made hugely welcome at Craigleith House hog roasts to introduce the OFA to the Upper Sixth; packed Commem dinners with a bar afterwards on the old swimming pool complex, and attendance at many other varied social gatherings across the UK and in Europe

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where a warm Fettes welcome was always guaranteed.

For me, the most important event in the calendar was to represent Old Fettesians in Chapel and at the War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday.

The OFA is all about being proud of the Fettes community past, present and future. It is an outstanding Association of which I am proud to have served. May it continue to thrive over the next 100 years. Floreas Fettesia.

Tom K Usher (JS-Gl 1979–1986) President of the OFA 2011–2013 My time as a pupil at Fettes was largely very happy. If you forget sport, music and study for a moment, my memories centre around the extraordinary camaraderie amongst many pupils in my year, with whom I have remained friends ever since.

I remember joking at a past Commem dinner that if I were ever really in trouble, my old pals would cross the world to come to my aid. They may well be completely bloody useless when they got there, but at least they would come. It is that bond, often forged in what we thought at the time was adversity, which drove my interest in the OFA and my desire to assist with the transition from school leaver to old friend.

And what an eventful couple of years I enjoyed: two Commem dinners, one of which saw an attempt to enforce the inaugural campus smoking ban, which was met with much hilarity from my peers, given that smoking was almost compulsory at Fettes in the 1980s; and a speech to OFs at the Yale Club in New York, during which my lecture to American OFs on the potentially damaging consequences of Independence seemed to lose the audience a little… My most treasured moment is certainly of laying a wreath at the War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday, almost 30 years after I had done so once before. As the Piper turns to walk away from a very silent school, and the extraordinary melody of the Flowers of the Forest quietly fades into the crisp morning air, I defy anyone not to shed a tear for those lost in conflict.

But what of the future for the OFA? I have a vested interest in ensuring that it thrives, given that my children have been lucky enough to tread the corridors where I once trod and sit in the same inspiring chapel seats where I once sat. The importance of the opportunity upon leaving school to meet up and share memories, whether happy and driven by positive nostalgia, or indeed challenging and difficult which I know defined the experiences of some, should not be underestimated. The network is a broad and supportive one and the parties and dinners remain as good fun as ever.

Alastair G Ross (JS-Gl 1981–1990) President of the OFA 2013–2015 Being President gave me the opportunity on several occasions to be part of the Evan Weir Citizenship Prize interviews. This is where a Fifth Former from each House is nominated by the Houseparent for their contribution to school life. Ahead of the interviews we received a report on the pupil who we then interviewed individually to pick winners to award the prize

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

to. Interviewing the ‘candidates’ was the highlight of the role.

The pupils were engaging, their stories inspiring and overall, it just made me proud to be a Fettesian.

As I was at Fettes for nine years, Fettes is really my only alma mater. When I compare what the OFA offers former pupils compared to a handful of schools around the UK where I have friends who attended these, Fettes appears to have a far more varied and expansive former pupil association. The OFA is made up of former pupils volunteering their time to ensure that this continues.

Absolutely we need to work with Fettes to drive this, and there should be no doubt in anyone’s mind that without Fettes the OFA could not be the organisation it is today.

Likewise, the OFA should be proud of what it does to help Fettes keep in touch with its former pupils. My hopes for the future are that Fettes and the OFA can continue to work together to include former pupils of any age and from any country to remain part of the Fettes community.

Andrew J Pickles (Ca 1962–1967) President of the OFA 2015–2017 I was at Fettes for five years and I honestly enjoyed every day. I took part in everything and relished being busy. Being part of the OFA and the team sprit amongst OFs enabled me to stay involved in the experience.

You are at Fettes for five years but a Fettesian for so much longer.

I thoroughly enjoyed being President, it made me proud that so many people want to remain a part of Fettes.

The role of the OFA is to enable OFs to keep in touch with the College, to remind us all how fortunate we were to have a Fettes education and to ensure continuation. In the next 100 years, I sincerely hope that the OFA will focus on the good things and continue the effort of keeping Fettesians connected, creating a strong sense of belonging.

Amanda J Forsyth (née Baker) (Ar 1982–1984) President of the OFA 2017–2020 As President of the OFA I enjoyed finding out more about the OFs who don’t make the headlines. We have a huge cohort of fascinating people in the OFA! During my presidency the event that stands out is laying the OF wreath at the War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday. Each time was tremendously moving, but the first time especially so. It was a bright, sunny day, with a sharp breeze blowing. During the two minutes’ silence, I was of course facing the Memorial, reading over and over the words “Carry On”, the north wind blowing cold on my face. In that silence, I had an involuntary image appear in my head of a group of soldiers, dressed in WW1 uniform, walking out to stand in three ranks behind me. Some of them were bandaged, some scruffy with shirts hanging out or puttees adrift. But as they joined the group of Fettesians, staff and OFs to form up and face the Memorial, I felt the bright sunshine warming my back, and it was as though that warmth was brought by the men whose names were written on the stone in front of me.

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I know, ridiculous and fanciful. But perhaps symptomatic of the solemnity of the job on the day.

My hopes for the future of the OFA are that we harness the benefits of social media, helping us keep in touch, and that we become an even larger and more vibrant organisation than we are today.

As an Old Fettesian it is such a pleasure to meet current students, the OFs of tomorrow. So much talent, enthusiasm, warmth and generosity of spirit give me confidence that Fettes College will truly flourish for years to come.

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Henry G Cave (SH 1980–1984) Current President of the OFA In the hundredth year of the Old Fettesian Association, it gives me great pleasure to be the 39th President. I look at Fettes with such hope. I can tell you with confidence that our Fettes College is continuing to produce well rounded fascinating individuals who have such a dose of humility.

I very much look forward to gathering Old Fettesians together in person again as soon as we are able.

List of Presidents of the Old Fettesian Association 1. Thomas S Esson (Gl 1870–1876) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1921–1928

20. George AL (Lindsay) Gordon (Ki 1934–1939) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1981–1983

2. Ewan A Jack (Ki 1923–1927) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1928–1931

21. Peter F Fenwick-Smith (Gl 1938–1941) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1983–1986

3. James Steel (SH 1876–1880) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1931–1932

22. John D Cowie (Ca 1939–1943) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1987–1988

4. Norman Macleod (Gl 1887–1889) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1932–1935

23. Kenneth A MacKinnon (Gl 1948–1954) President of the OFA 1988–1990

5. Alfred A Lawrie (Ca 1896–1902) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1935–1937

24. Iain F MacLaren (SH 1939–1944) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1990–1992

6. Kenneth G Macleod (Gl 1899–1905) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1937–1938

25. John NH Blelloch (Ca 1944–1949) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1992–1994

7. William G Lely (Mo 1897–1905) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1939–1945

26. Alan AW Waddell (Ca 1946–1951) President of the OFA 1994–1996

8. Laurence H Watson (Ca 1909–1913) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1945–1948

27. John MM (Jock) Smith (Ca 1944–1949) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1996–1998

9. Herbert Waddell (Mo 1915–1921) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1948–1951

28. Frans H ten Bos (Gl 1951–1955) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1998–2000

10. James D Russell (SH 1908–1913) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1951–1955

29. Iain H Nicholson (Ca 1953–1957) President of the OFA 2000–2002

11. George PS (Phil) Macpherson (SH 1916–1921) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1955–1958

30. Ian B Rae (Gl 1961–1965) President of the OFA 2002–2004

12. Ronald JF McAlister (Ca 1912–1915) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1958–1961 13. James F (Forrest) Carnegie (Ca 1917–1921) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1961–1964 14. Alexander M Hodge (SH 1929–1933) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1964–1967 15. Samuel K (Knox) Cunningham (Mo 1922–1928) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1967–1970 16. Allison L (Lyle) Barr (Mo 1932–1935) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1970–1970 17. John C Arbuthnott (Ca 1938–1942) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1970–1974 18. Frank AR (Alan) Hunter (Ca 1927–1932) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1974–1977 19. R Michael Fraser of Kilmorack (Mo 1929–1934) (Deceased) President of the OFA 1978–1980

31. James C (Chris) Faux (Gl 1953–1958) President of the OFA 2004–2006 32. James A (Alister) Aitkenhead (Ca 1964–1969) President of the OFA 2006–2008 33. Ian R Gardiner (Mo 1963–1968) President of the OFA 2008–2010 34. Susan A Evans (née Young) (JS-Ar 1985–1992) President of the OFA 2010–2011 35. Tom K Usher (JS-Gl 1979–1986) President of the OFA 2011–2013 36. Alastair G Ross (JS-Gl 1981–1990) President of the OFA 2013–2015 37. Andrew J Pickles (Ca 1962–1967) President of the OFA 2015–2017 38. Amanda J Forsyth (née Baker) (Ar 1982–1984) President of the OFA 2017–2020 39. Henry G Cave (SH 1980–1984) Current President of the OFA

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST OLD FETTESIANS Fettes provides a strong foundation for the future and a family for life. Whilst for our Leavers, Founder's Day marks the end of their time at the school, it is just the beginning of the next step in their Fettes journey. Leavers are warmly welcomed into our vibrant community of Old Fettesians all around the world. We’d like to take this opportunity to welcome the Leavers of 2021 as they join the Old Fettesian Association and we look forward to seeing them at future OF events.

Doga Acikgun (PS-CW 2014–2021) Temiloluwa Adeola (PS-Ca 2013–2021) Kathleen Alguel (Da 2019–2021) Kevin An (PS-Gl 2014–2021) Ella Andrews (Da 2019–2021) Kate Angier (CE 2019–2021) Flora Archibald (PS-Da 2010–2021) Kirsty Armitage (CW 2019–2021) Haajrah Ashraf (Ar 2019–2021) Rai Banerjee (CW 2019–2021) Florence Barlas (Ar 2016–2021) Nancy Barlas (Ar 2016–2021) Marie-Charlotte Baubigeat (CE 2019–2021) Hermine Beurrier (CW 2019–2021) Julia Bierkaemper (CW 2019–2021) Daniel Blumberg (Ki 2019–2021) Oscar Bourke (Ki 2017–2021) Jessica Bramwell (Da 2019–2021) Olivia Brannan (CE 2016–2021) Bella Buchanan-Smith (Da 2016–2021) Jamie Burnet (Mo 2016–2021) Bengu Canliel (CE 2017–2021) Ece Canliel (CE 2017–2021) Sandy Carnegie (PS-Ca 2014–2021) Honor Carrick-Buchanan (Ar 2017–2021) Ryan Chan (Ki 2017–2021) Cian Choo (Ca 2019–2021) Anna Connolly (Ar 2016–2021) Soufia Cordero (CW 2016–2021) Alexander Cumming (Ca 2016–2021) David Dada (PS-Ki 2014–2021) Rosie Davidson (CW 2019–2021) Finlay Dobson (Ki 2017–2021) James Doune (Ca 2016–2021) Fjodor Dranichnikov (Ki 2019–2021) Aidan Dunn (Ca 2016–2021) Poppy Edlmann (PS-Ar 2010–2021) Catherine Edwards (PS-CE 2010–2021) Torran Evans (PS-Mo 2013–2021) Matvey Evtushenko (Mo 2019–2021)

Flora Ferguson (PS-Da 2014–2021) Harry Fotheringham (Mo 2016–2021) Ianthe Fraser (CE 2017–2021) Caitlin Galloway (PS-Da 2014–2021) Laima Geddes (CW 2016–2021) Flora Gibb (Da 2019–2021) James Goodall (PS-Mo 2015–2021) Camille Gourjault (Gl 2019–2021) Archie Gray (Ca 2017–2021) Tiare Hamilton (Da 2019–2021) Emma Harper (Da 2016–2021) Connie Harrison (PS-Ar 2010–2021) Mary-Kate Hartley (CW 2019–2021) Christian Henderson (Gl 2016–2021) Ryan Ho (PS-Mo 2014–2021) Helen Huang (PS-CW 2013–2021) William Hynett (PS-Gl 2014–2021) Yu Inamura (PS-Ar 2011–2021) Ari Jenkins (PS-Mo 2015–2021) Emma Kingan (PS-CW 2013–2021) Eleanor Kinmonth (PS-CE 2013–2021) Erika Kraabel (PS-CE 2015–2021) Kalina Kwan (CW 2017–2021) Molly Laing (PS-Da 2014–2021) Amaya Larkin (Da 2016–2021) Jasmine Lasnet (Da 2016–2021) Tommy Lau (Ca 2017–2021) Benjamin Leffek (PS-Ki 2010–2021) Felice Leung (CE 2017–2021) Dinesh Lingam (Mo 2019–2021) Madeleine MaAulay (CW 2016–2021) Jennifer Mackay (CE 2016–2021) Eloise Mackie (Da 2019–2021) Torquil MacLeod (Gl 2016–2021) Oran Macpherson Raffell (PS-Ki 2014–2021) Sasha Macquaker (Ar 2018–2021) Nicholas Martin (PS-Mo 2012–2021) Kitty McCreath (Ar 2016–2021) Oleksandr Meshchanin (PS-Ca 2015–2021) Somei Miyashita (Gl 2019–2021) Andrea Morlicchio (Gl 2019–2021) Gemma Morris (Da 2017–2021)

Ali Mughal (Mo 2019–2021) Catherine Munt (PS-CW 2010–2021) Logan Murray (PS-Gl 2014–2021) James Myers (Gl 2016–2021) Yoko Nakano (Ar 2019–2021) Brodie Nichol (PS-Mo 2015–2021) Beth Nicolson (CW 2017–2021) Oliver Norton (PS-Mo 2014–2021) Chidaro Nyirenda (Da 2019–2021) Daniel Olaoya (PS-Gl 2014–2021) Oliver Paterson (PS-Ki 2015–2021) Charles Pattison (Ki 2017–2021) Jamie Persaud (Ar 2017–2021) Alexander Pilz (PS-Ki 2014–2021) Vladimir Polonskii (Ki 2016–2021) Damian Rak (Ca 2019–2021) Anna Raubenheimer (Da 2016–2021) Sofia Razmilovic (Da 2018–2021) Lucy Redmond (Ar 2016–2021) Isabella Sale (CW 2016–2021) Gabriella Saudi (Ar 2019–2021) Alexander Seton (Gl 2019–2021) Cameron Sharp (Ki 2016–2021) Tom Speedy (PS-Ca 2010–2021) Nicholas Stanic (PS-Ki 2015–2021) Nicholas Stokes (PS-Mo 2015–2021) Finn Sutherland (Gl 2017–2021) Eric Tang (PS-Gl 2013–2021) Isobel Todd (Ar 2016–2021) Louisa Traynor (PS-Ar 2012–2021) Jamie Turnbull (PS-Ca 2013–2021) Emmanuel Urama (Mo 2019–2021) Adelaide Walker (CW 2016–2021) Sammi Wang (Ar 2019–2021) Danielle Watt (Da 2019–2021) Tom Wearmouth (PS-Ca 2014–2021) Zara Weir (Da 2017–2021) Kitty Whitson (Ar 2019–2021) Max Williams (Ca 2019–2021) Thomas Wilson (PS-Ki 2014–2021) Daniel Wolff (PS-Ca 2011–2021) Stella Wood (CE 2016–2021) Sean Yang (Gl 2016–2021) Christian Zimmer (PS-Ca 2014–2021)

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

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FETTES: OUR PLACE A Celebration of Life at Fettes This beautiful book is packed full of Fettes nostalgia and features hundreds of photographs, printed materials and objects from various aspects of Fettes’ 150 year history.

It has been put together to showcase 150 years of Fettes and to bring Old Fettesians a piece of Fettes as it was for them.

Researched by College Archivist Craig Marshall (Staff 2014–present) and Karen Jones (Ar 1989–1991, Staff 2012–present), and it was written and curated by former staff member Ralph Hughes (Staff 1985–2017).

It was fascinating seeing many of the same rooms and views that we see today, from as far back as 150 years ago, and spotting the similarities between them. In particular, I love the photos of Arniston and the old Arniston dorm.

Current student (PS-Ar 2010–2021)

Thank you so much for ‘Our Place’.

The photographs (and text) were excellent: a really good balance.

It must have been a herculean task working through the archives and deciding on what to include and what not to. Very well done to everyone!

OF (Mo 1970–1975)

What a marvellous book! It really captures the essence of Fettes – certainly from the last almost 60 years, since I first set eyes on the place. I have skimmed the pages, but plan to devour it, picture by picture and word by word.

OF (Ca 1962–1967)

How to order: shop.fettes.com/product/fettes-our-place-book or phone the Fettes Shop on +44 (0)131 311 6723

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

THE ARCHIVIST’S TOP TEN TREASURES Craig Marshall (Staff 2014–Present), College Archivist Back in 1970, when the College was celebrating its centenary and girls were first admitted to Fettes, I would regularly walk our dog on the grassy fields where Broughton High School and the Police Headquarters now stand. I would look across with my parents (I was only six years old!) at the students in their stripey blazers and straw boaters, never imagining that I would ever end up working within the iconic and majestic College building.

On leaving school I studied Theology at Aberdeen University, returning there after two years in the Civil Service working for what was at the time the DHSS (Department of Health & Social Security), to study for an Arts degree in Religious Studies.

For the next twenty-five years I worked in two of Edinburgh’s most historic churches – Greyfriars Kirk and St Cuthbert’s Church, where I endeavoured to create an environment whereby the Church could have a greater relevance in society and was not seen merely as a “Sunday Club” for faithful worshippers. By developing the premises to increase accessibility for a large variety of groups and individuals, the churches became “spaces for all”, open seven days a week, with far greater footfall, and opportunities to engage with a wider constituency of people from all walks of life.

In 2014, I was delighted to have the opportunity to start work in the College Archives, supporting two amazing Fettes stalwarts – Andrew Murray OBE (Staff 1981–2014) and George Preston (CW 1944–1950, Staff 1955–1991). Over the past seven years it has been a pleasure and an undoubted privilege to build on the success of my predecessors to further raise the profile of the archives and showcase the rich history of the College. We have catalogued the majority of the contents of the archival collection, moved from dusty basement rooms to newly refurbished premises beneath the Old Music Room, and created a digital archive containing a searchable resource which hosts scanned copies of 1

all issues of the Fettesian magazine, the Old Fettesian Newsletter, and a large collection of School, House, and Sports Team photographs dating back as far as 1870.

One major focus of our attention over the past three years has been to source material from the archives to enrich the 150th anniversary celebrations of the opening of Fettes College in 1870. This project, which included the publication of Fettes: Our Place, afforded us the opportunity to dig deeper into our archival collection and unearth some magnificent treasures.

From our rich and varied collection, and after much deliberation, I have selected my personal Top Ten Treasures as follows: 1. The letter written by William Fettes (junior) to his mother in April 1815 which outlines his travels as part of his Grand Tour of Europe, and casually mentions Napoleon’s escape from Elba. This is particularly poignant as having contracted typhoid on his journey, young William died in Berlin just one week before the Battle of Waterloo.

2. A notebook containing handwritten letters from Dr Potts (Staff 1870-1889), first Headmaster, to the Fettes Trustees following his appointment in 1868.

These documents give a fascinating insight into his vision for the College, highlighting the importance of pastoral care, and outlining the educational environment he sought to create.

3. The handwritten version of Dr Potts’ last message, dictated to the College doctor one and a half hours before his death on 15th November 1889. This became a lasting testament to the man who showed unfailing dedication to those in his care, despite suffering the intense personal tragedy of the loss of his youngest son and his beloved wife in 1883, and continues to be seen by every Fettesian as they enter/leave Chapel.

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4. An album belonging to J F Carruthers (SH 1871–1875) containing photographs taken in 1889 by William Skinner who was the College Porter from 1870 to 1915, before taking charge of the Swimming Baths from 1915 to 1922.

He still holds the record as the longest serving member of staff – 52 years. Not only are these images remarkable in terms of their content, showing us various views of the College and grounds from the late 19th century, but also in terms of the quality, given that they were developed from glass slides.

5. A photograph of the Tug of War from the School Sports held on Saturday 30th March 1912. There is so much detail in this image – from the cupola on the roof of what is now the Concert Hall, to the amazing outfits worn by the spectators. The description of the event from the April 1912 edition of the Fettesian is brutally matter of fact with the losers (Glencorse) being “very disappointing”.

6. ‘A Book of Scraps concerning School Life at Fettes College by A.J. Allsebrook of School House.’ This book is without doubt an archivist’s dream. Antony Allsebrook was in Schoolhouse from 1932–1937 and throughout his time at Fettes he compiled what can best be described as an illustrated diary – pages filled with handwritten comments supported by original copies of letters, photographs, newspaper cuttings, match fixture cards, luggage labels, concert programmes, invitation cards, exam papers, and so much else besides. This is a phenomenally personal portrayal of daily life at Fettes in the 1930s through the eyes of a conscientious young man. What gives the book added poignancy is that Antony Allsebrook was killed at the age of 22, when the Royal Navy ship in which he served as a Sub Lieutenant was torpedoed by a German U-Boat and sunk on 25th November 1941.

7. The top hat, in its original carrying box, which belonged to K D H Cattenach (SH 1935–1941). It’s all very well reading accounts of how the boys at Fettes had to wear top hat and tails, particularly when attending church services in town on Sundays, right up until 1940, but to have a physical example in excellent condition is of paramount importance. This really brings the past to life, and it is enjoyed by our own M Form in the Prep School when they learn about the history of the College.

8. Registers of Applications – bound volumes spanning the years from 1864 to 1946. These handwritten papers make fascinating reading and give us an unparalleled insight into the lives and backgrounds of many of the applicants to the College. Particularly emotive in many cases are the comments noting the reasons for the applications, often citing the death of a parent or the collapse of a business.

9. Tony Bear – found in a cardboard box in the classroom of Rona MacVicar (Staff 1984–2019), he was the mascot who accompanied the girls on the Hockey & Lacrosse Tour to Japan and Australia in 1997. He proudly wore the newly commissioned Fettes tartan, and he even got his photo in the Edinburgh Evening News.

10. 150th Anniversary Sports Kit – just to prove that not all archival artefacts need to be old, this wonderful new kit, specially commissioned for the 150th anniversary year (and sponsored by Graham’s The Family Dairy), is set to become the latest addition to our collection. Interestingly the logo on the back of the shirt came from the College archives, having been discovered on the cover of a Fettes Concert Programme from Friday 4th April 1879.

This shirt is a treasure which I hope our successors will put on display when the College celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2070!

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

OLDEST OLD FETTESIAN Roger Muirhead MBE MRCVS (Mo 1935–1939) We are in touch with a wonderful community of Old Fettesians ranging in age from the recent leavers of 2021 right up to our oldest contactable OF, Roger Muirhead MBE MRCVS (Mo 1935–1939). Roger celebrated his 100th birthday earlier this year, on 17th April. We were delighted to send him a birthday card and a copy of Fettes: Our Place as a gift. Shortly afterwards, we received a lovely letter in response thanking us for the book and telling us about his life since Fettes. He also enclosed a photograph of him opening his birthday telegram from Her Majesty The Queen. Vivienne Clark, OF Coordinator, had the pleasure of talking to Roger on the telephone, where he spoke about his driving licence being renewed, his birthday spent at Buckley Barracks (formerly site of RAF Hullavington) and his various Fettes connections. Roger’s father, Sir John S Muirhead (Ca 1903–1908), uncle Brigadier James Muirhead (Ca 1905–1910), brother Pilot Officer J Patrick Muirhead (Mo 1936–1940) and cousin Officer Cadet Michael K S Muirhead (Ca 1933–1937) all attended Fettes College. Both Patrick and Michael are listed on the War Memorial in the grounds of Fettes.

We are very pleased that Roger has given us his permission to share his letter with our readers: Thank you for sending me a 100th birthday card and a copy of Fettes: Our Place. I am surprised that I am now the oldest OF to be alive.

I enlisted in the Royal Army Service Corps in Sept 1939 but did not join my regiment until the following November 1940.

I served in North Africa, Sicily and Italy, and later in Holland – In the closing month of the war in Europe I was in the Isle of Man doing a conversion course for the infantry – but volunteered for the Far East and was in a re-enforcement camp of Comilla which is now in Bangladesh when the war with Japan ended. For the next nine months I was with the British Military Government Malaya running a food supply department for the civilian population in Perak State. I was demobilised in Aug 1946 with the rank of Captain.

Roger in his final year at Fettes, 1939

I spent the next three years working very hard – I studied law for two terms at Glasgow University, emigrated to Canada but returned in 1949 when I went as a mature student to the Royal (Dick) Veterinary College in Edinburgh where I qualified in 1955.

I served as an assistant for a time in Okehampton and my hometown of Stirling. I then ran the subsidised Veterinary Practice in Gairloch, Ross-shire, for 2½ years.

I spent the next 5½ years in Co. Galway in the Irish Republic.

In 1965 I returned to England and for the last 20 years of my professional life I was employed with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Fisheries (MAFF) as Veterinary Officer.

In 1975 I was a member of the British team who went to Malta to deal with an outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease.

I was awarded an MBE when I retired for Services to Agriculture as the discoverer of the link between badgers and cattle with bovine tuberculosis.

I returned when I was 80 for service with MAFF to help with the great outbreak of F&M (Foot & Mouth) in 2001 – since then I have done nothing much except to play about with vintage cars. My last connection with Fettes was in 1951 when I bought the late Dick Cole-Hamilton’s (Staff 1938–1991) 1929 Lea Francis two-seater which must have been a familiar sight to several generations of OFs. Alas it was written off in an accident when being driven by the late Stuart McIntosh, the first husband of Margaret BuchananSmith.

Yours sincerely Roger Muirhead.

P.S. I enclose a photograph showing my card from the Queen.

We very much hope to be able to welcome Roger back to Fettes again at some point in the future.

Roger receiving his 100th birthday card from Her Majesty The Queen

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A VIEW FROM THE COMMON ROOM Neil Ward (Staff 2008–present) It was not until I was sitting in the staff pews in Chapel last week, listening to a solo hymn from one of our talented Fourth Form, that I realised how much I had missed such occasions. With so much of our focus on the challenges of delivering the academic curriculum under the restrictions imposed on us by this pandemic, it has been easy to overlook the impact of not having these events in our weekly routine. As I mentioned last year, Fettes, for me, is first and foremost about the community. In times like these, missing opportunities to bring us together, to reflect and support one another, has been a significant loss.

Although we have faced challenges as a Common Room this year, it has been impossible to ignore our privilege when comparing to others’ experiences over the last 18 months. After a Summer Term online, we were delighted to be back in the classroom in September. The new challenge of blended learning was upon us and while this proved logistically demanding, the new IT skills we had developed made it possible to achieve. It was lovely to see everyone in person, even if it was from a distance and with masks muffling our voices and obscuring our facial expressions. The school’s 150th anniversary celebrations came as a welcome reminder of what this place represents to so many, and that hard times have been overcome before to get to where we are now.

Sadly, the Autumn Term also brought the announcement that two of our longest serving colleagues, Andrew Shackleton (Staff 1985–2021) and Robert Harrison (Staff 1991-2021), would be retiring from teaching at the end of the year.

Andrew Shackleton leaves us after thirty-six years’ service in the Classics Department, a member of the 100 Club as Rob Harrison put it when describing the achievement of teaching more than a century of terms.

For nineteen of those years, he has had the enormous responsibility of Director of Studies, a job he has done with obvious success. Often known by colleagues for asking difficult questions at interview and his hilarious leaving speeches, he is loved for his straight talking, selfdeprecating wit, and eye for detail. We have been incredibly

lucky to have had someone of his calibre and experience help lead us through this challenging period.

Rob only narrowly misses out on the 100 Club himself, having given thirty years of his life to this place. Like his wife, he is Fettes through and through, and has contributed so much to every aspect of life here; English teacher, hockey coach and Housemaster to name but a few of his many roles over the years. Many of us have had the privilege of being taken through the staff induction process by him. Within moments of first meeting him, it was clear that this was a special place to work and somewhere that you wanted to be part of, such was his warm welcome and infectious passion for the place. As President of the Common Room, he brought the staff together in so many ways.

His humorous speeches will long be remembered, as will his roles directing and acting in the staff plays.

The Spring Term saw us back behind our computer screens. Although the novelty had worn off for many, we were far better equipped and able to produce a great variety of online lessons. This has always been one of the most high-pressured terms academically and it stretched everyone to their limit, particularly when it came to supporting students through the completion of practical coursework. As the exams were cancelled, the prospect of producing teacher assessed grades became a reality.

It signified another stressful term to come where we would once again need to pull together and ensure we did our absolute best for the students involved.

The Summer Term was indeed incredibly challenging for all, but in true Fettes style, we adapted and made the most of what was allowed within the restrictions. The summer weather helped brighten the mood. With chapels and sports fixtures returning and the sound of piping drifting over Bigside, the place seemed a lot more familiar. One highlight for many was viewing the film production of Much Ado About Nothing. As Vikki Chandler and Peter Jenkins stated in their director’s notes, sometimes adversity offers opportunity. To produce such a film, a first for Fettes, under such circumstances epitomises what this place is about and once again reminds us of what a special place this is.

The school’s 150th anniversary celebrations came as a welcome reminder of what this place represents to so many

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

CONNECTING AND SUPPORTING EACH OTHER Fettes Community Portal and Fettes Career Partnership During this recent time of uncertainty, the Fettes community has truly embraced the virtual environment.

This is evidenced by the huge growth in participation and connectivity with the full functionality of the Fettes Community Portal and increased support for the Fettes Career Partnership programme.

We are so fortunate to be brought together by our global Fettes connection. By joining the portal, relevant help and friendship is readily to hand.

There are now over 1,800 registered users on the portal.

We have welcomed a wide range of Old Fettesians from those who were at Fettes in the 1940s and are looking to reconnect with their contemporaries, to those who left Fettes in 2021 and are looking for support and guidance in the next stage of their lives, and Sixth Formers exploring their options. Former staff and parents who are willing to offer career advice have also signed up to this fantastic resource.

VISIT FETTESCOMMUNITY.ORG Find your Fettes friends Join a Group – connect with OFs in your region or those with an interest in common Participate in the Fettes Career Partnership programme by seeking or offering help Browse the digital archives, a fully searchable resource of Fettesian Magazines, Old Fettesian Newsletters and many House and Sports photographs.

Careers Support Offered From 700 Old Fettesians We are exceptionally grateful to the 700 OFs who have offered support to the Fettes Career Partnership programme since we launched Fettes Community in April 2020. Here are just some of the ways in which our wonderful community has provided support.

Oxbridge Interviews In October, Old Fettesians with strong academic experience supported 45 applicants to Oxford and Cambridge with virtual interview practice. At Fettes we are proud to support all Oxbridge applicants from Edinburgh High Schools alongside our internal applicants. We are tremendously grateful to everyone who helped share their time and expertise. The experience is hugely valued as you will read in these testimonies gathered straight after the interviews: The interview was beyond helpful – the questions that were asked were thought-provoking and made me seek a better understanding of my subject. The feedback was great as well – I now have clear goals to work towards when preparing for my real interview.

Applicant for English & French (Ox), Portobello High School.

Watch our short video guide here – vimeo.com/528433643/b375093e92

My interviewers were incredibly helpful in giving constructive criticism and though it was quite nerve racking and stressful, I think it has helped me gain a bit more confidence and familiarity with how the process is likely to be if I were to get an interview for Cambridge.

Thank you for organising this.

Applicant for Human, Social and Political Sciences (Cam), Fettes College

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

Careers Day Part 1 and Part 2 Fettes College Careers Day is a key day in the curriculum for Lower Sixth Form students, providing focused time to explore career journeys beyond Fettes and to consider higher education destinations and courses. This year we had to deliver it virtually when the students found themselves learning from home.

We were so very grateful to the many young OFs, listed below, who responded to our request to create short career videos for students with first-hand expertise and advice on this year’s Careers Day topics: How to shape your future, building interpersonal skills and filling your time productively.

Millie Brown (PS-Ar 2007–2014), Rory Hardie (Ca 2012– 2014), Emily Cheadle (Ar 2015–2017), David Biddulph (Inv-Mo 2005–2016), Hugh Dingwall (Mo 2009–2014), James Goodenough (Inv-Mo 2004–2014), Fenella James (PS-Ar 2008–2015), Alexandra Aird (Ar 2012–2014), Josh Law (Ki 2012–2014), Ralph Shackleton (PS-Ca 2004– 2015), Ali Waugh (PS-Da 2009–2016), Tom Worlledge (PS-Mo 2009–2016), Vasily Shenshin (Ca 2009–2013), Lucy Macmaster (Da 2012–2016), Eliza Le-Roy-Lewis (CE 2010–2015), Douglas Beard (PS-Gl 2009–2015), Cal Cooke (PS-Ca 2009–2017), Alex Egerton-King (Mo 2010–2015), Michael Tansini (Inv-Ca 2001–2009), Cara McKenna (CW 2014–2018), Alfie Jeavons-Fellows (Gl 2014–2016) We are also indebted to those who participated in our panel conversation ‘Making your Time Count’, chaired by Liam Vandoorne (Ki 2001–2006), CEO of the London based headhunting firm VARO Partners. Our panelists were: ʜ OF Wilfried Vyslozil (SH 1973–1973), Executive Chairman of SOS Children’s Villages ʜ Current parent Ingrid Emerson MBE, Chief Executive of Project Trust, the educational charity specialising in volunteering ʜ Current parent Tom Morton, Director of ClimateCare, a business relating to climate change and the implementation of the Paris Agreement in East Africa

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‘Be the best you can be by making your own decisions’ was the title of the closing session by Tim McEwan (Gl 1987–1992), MD Talent Development & Advisory at Sheffield Haworth and Fellow in Management Practice at the Cambridge Judge Business School. Tim brought our virtual Careers Day to a conclusion with some key points and reflections to guide and support plans and career journeys beyond school.

If you would like to view the Careers Day content it can be seen here: www.fettes.com/careers-day-public-2021 www.fettes.com/fettes-careers-day-2021–part-2–2 UCAS Mentors OFs in the legal field have been involved in supplying a professional context to Sixth Form university applicants for law. We are very grateful to those who have been providing insights into various aspects of the law and demystifying course subject content.

Post GCSE Programme for Fifth Form

By June, Fettesians were back at school but still not able to have many external speakers. Once again, we turned to the OF community for support through the Fettes Career Partnership programme and were delighted to receive welcome support.

Adam Gordon (JS-Ki 1988–1992), CEO of Candidate.ID, provided a highly informative keynote for our Fifth Form guiding them through the thought process to create their own unique standout CV. Inspirational videos were provided by OFs demonstrating a wide breadth of career experiences, helping students to explore and embrace career discovery at this relatively early stage in their lives.

Internships The Mentoring pages on the Fettes Community Portal have the option to offer and seek possible internships.

Throughout this challenging time, we have been humbled that 174 members have been willing to explore and discuss internship opportunities for others. Though physical work experience has been an impossibility during the pandemic, we have heard lovely stories from young OFs delighted to gain virtual work experience through this route: Just to update you, I took your advice and joined the Fettes Community Portal and reached out to a number of OFs who said that they were willing to help me find an internship. I wanted to let you know that an OF has offered me an internship at his company for six weeks in the summer which is amazing and I am very grateful. l think it will be very interesting and useful for informing what I want to do in the future. So thank you very much for that advice.

Old Fettesian

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

FETTES ACROSS THE GENERATIONS Two OF Grandfathers and their Families We contacted two multi-generational Fettes families with students currently studying in the Fourth and Fifth Forms.

Their perspectives show the value of friendship and the family desire for a thread of continuity, enabling the next generation to benefit from all that a Fettes education has to offer. Each generation also comments on modernisation from the last and how Fettes fitted with each of their needs at the time.

Johnston Family Grandfather, David Johnston (Ca 1953–1958): I will start by saying I always valued what Fettes did for me.

My parents, and my grandparents, built their lives in India so it was logical to send me, an only child, to board at Fettes.

Fettes gave me two things I have valued throughout my life: the friends I made and perseverance.

I was lucky enough to be large so played rugger, which in those days was much more important than being a scholar, so I believe I “did well” at Fettes. Full disclosure: I was in the 1st XV that lost our 8 year unbeaten record. And finally, a tribute to the staff of Fettes Masters, I achieved three A levels and a law degree from Edinburgh University.

My son, Christopher, was not given much choice about schooling since we were by then a family on the international business circuit, so he “had to go to boarding school”. My grandson, Callum, seems to enjoy Fettes enormously in spite of the difficulties of the Covid era.

Which makes me think, and I tell him every chance I get, Fettes today is much plusher than it was in my day. Was it not ever thus, from generation to generation? I am happy to see him happy.

Father, Chris Johnston (Ca 1983–1988): My time at Fettes provided me with a strong set of values and a solid academic basis. I believe I walked away with confidence, and this enabled me to continue my education and then start my career knowing that I could interact with people. Much of this was due to my time at Fettes.

I arrived at Fettes straight “off the boat” from the US, where my parents had spent the previous twenty years.

We had been to Scotland many times to visit grandparents, but it was not necessarily a familiar environment. To this end, knowing that my father had spent time at Fettes was a comfort in the early days. I soon settled in, but even in my

last year I could never escape him as his name was on a board outside my study!

As my wife and I embarked on the difficult process of deciding how to guide Callum in his secondary education, I was constantly reminded of the hearty Scottish reception and education I had received at Fettes. Fettes offers a great education. My peers, teachers and the people I came across in my time there were warm and friendly. I believe Callum will come away feeling the same way after his time at Fettes.

Fettes seems to be coping very well in finding a balance between boarding and day students too. Having boarded for five years, it was a very important part of my experience and the main difference that I have seen since Callum’s arrival is in the boarding houses. Carrington has been updated sympathetically, but still provides great common areas for the boys (in normal times) to socialise. Proper heating upstairs seems to be a welcome addition! Like all schools nowadays, pastoral care is front and foremost at Fettes, and I am very happy that there seems to be someone for the students to turn to at all times. The addition of Craigleith House for the Upper Sixth provides a valuable steppingstone for them before they embark on their next chosen path (albeit in some luxury, I understand!).

I am also very impressed with how the school has managed to keep most of the wonderful grounds that my father and I’s generations grew up with. After a recent visit, I marvelled to myself that my son was able to have all this space in the middle of one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe.

I am very pleased that Callum is attending Fettes. Like many parents, I spend a lot of time reminding him of the opportunities that Fettes affords him, and to be sure that he takes advantage of these; I am not sure that he pays heed to my advice, but he has certainly broadened his spheres of interest considerably.

Son, Callum (Current Carrington Student): I would describe the Fettes of today as a very friendly, inclusive community that offers countless opportunities, allowing amazing memories to be made. When I joined last year, I was immediately welcomed and accepted into the community, and I have made some very strong friendships here. Fettes excels academically too, and I am fortunate to have learnt an incredible amount and many new skills due to our amazing, kind staff and their high academic standards.

Sports are also run very well, allowing a sense of fun and competitiveness.

It is an honour to be able to carry on the Johnston name at Fettes and nice to be able to look back and discuss change at the school with my father and grandfather. I enjoy hearing how Fettes was in their day and knowing that my family have a personal history here.

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

Hendry/Wood Family Grandfather, Michael Hendry (Ki 1957–1962): The Fettes of today has changed so much with the times. There are no longer things like cold showers. It was a different world when I was here and standards have improved so much in terms of living, teaching and sports.

Fettes opened up to girls only a few years before Vanessa joined the Prep. We looked at many Edinburgh schools and thought Fettes would suit her personality the most.

Meeting the very calm and approachable David Clarke, the Headmaster at the Junior School, helped our decision.

When it was time for Vanessa to choose a school for Abbey, I had nothing to do with the decision. However, I am delighted that Abbey is at Fettes. My grandson will also be joining in September, so the family connection continues.

The choice to send each generation to Fettes was not born out of loyalty to the school, but more that the product was the right one at the time of making the decision. I was originally at Edinburgh Academy but my parents decided to move me to Fettes College as they felt it would be a better fit.

Fettes gives you a good education and prepares you well for the ups and downs of life. Interestingly, I was back at Fettes around the time of the centenary when our family construction firm built the science labs.

Mother, Vanessa Wood (née Hendry) (JS-Ar 1984–1992): Ultimately it was my daughter Abbey’s choice to go to Fettes.

Clearly if you have good memories of a place, even if it has changed over the years, then that has a positive influence on your decision. Looking around and visiting for sports occasions from Belhaven Hill School, we were always really impressed with the staff. The teachers and the peer group are what make a place and we wanted her to be in a happy environment.

There are obvious changes to the physical environment.

Abbey no longer has to run through the pond like we did in the steeplechase. When I attended Fettes, someone had dug a hole in the pond so when you stepped in there was a high chance you’d fall, much to the entertainment of all the spectators. The old swimming pool was a big part of school life and it’s been replaced by Westwoods. It’s good being a parent at a school that you know your way around, and the polish used hasn’t changed as the main building still smells the same as it always did!

Technology is the biggest change in all areas of life and in the classroom. Most of my teachers favoured the overhead projector which seemed dynamic at the time. I expect our children’s generation won’t even know what that is!

School is such a formative time in your life and Fettes taught me to take opportunities that come your way and to keep challenging yourself. The extra-curricular activities are a big part of the school and I have memories of sleeping in snow holes in the Cairngorms, sledging down glaciers in orange bivvy bags and travelling across Siberia in 1992.

I’m not sure risk assessments existed then, but that was a great freedom we had. I have friends from Fettes that are still a big part of my life.

When Abbey started, I was sad that she missed Rona MacVicar (Staff 1984–2019) by a term as her amazing contribution to the school and many young lives made a big impact on me. She also had a great sense of humour, particularly when her walking boots started to melt whilst drying by a fire in Siberia.

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Mr Henderson (Staff 1984–1993) (Deceased) was another influential teacher that I was lucky enough to have as an English teacher for three years. We had these lessons in the Old Library and in the evening it seemed lit up by the view of the Castle.

He could be a little scary and as well as teaching us English, he taught us to grow up. He had a real presence, and really raised our standards. My love of reading is down to him and I often re-read To Kill a Mockingbird when I don’t have anything lined up.

A good friend of mine, who is not an Old Fettesian, has always commented that her friends from Fettes are the most grounded group of friends she has.

Daughter, Abbey (Current College West Student): I wanted to go to Fettes as I wanted to board and because of the number of different opportunities offered by the school.

It seemed like a really friendly place when I visited on my trial day. I really enjoy Fettes, especially because it is the Summer Term at the moment, and we are outside lots and playing sports. I often think of how my mother and grandfather came here and how it must have changed since they went here. Fettes is a very lovely community today and I really enjoy everyday life here.

Considering admission to Fettes for your family?

As Old Fettesians, you have experienced all that Fettes has to offer and we hope that Fettes plays just as important a part in your present and future as it did in your past. If you are considering a Fettes education for a member of your family, our Admissions Team will happily answer any questions you may have and update you on all that has been happening here since you left.

Although there are a few restrictions currently in place regarding visiting, when you are able to come, we will ensure a thorough tour so you can show your family where you grew up and relive some of your school memories. Our Head, Helen Harrison, would be delighted to meet with you and discuss the Fettes of today and what a Fettes education can do for your child. Your tour will, of course, include a visit to your House and an opportunity to meet with the current Houseparent so you can reminisce and rediscover – our Archivist will happily find some treasures from the archives as a memento too.

To this day, studying at Fettes is an incredible start to life with its history, ethos and community providing constant strength. A Fettes education is and should remain a currency that really matters to every student who receives it.

Admissions Contact Details admissions@fettes.com or +44 (0)131 311 6744

A strong foundation for the future, a family for life.

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

FETTESIAN SUCCESSION Academic Year 2020–2021 Our records show that the following Old Fettesians currently have direct descendants studying at Fettes College and Prep.

On Founder’s Day we usually invite OFs who attend to gather at the Pavilion. Sadly this has not been possible for the last two years. Our photo for this spread therefore depicts the timeless tradition of the steeplechase something that all Fettesians, past and present, will remember.

Great Grandparents John R Burnet (Mo 1901–1905) (Deceased) William D Lewis (Gl 1912–1915) (Deceased) William E Orr (Ca 1916–1917) (Deceased) James F Carnegie (Ca 1917–1921) (Deceased) William A Brown (Mo 1918–1922) (Deceased) Alexander I Cumming (Ca 1922–1925) (Deceased) Grandparents John A Thomson (Ki 1938–1941) Thomas C McCreath (SH 1944–1947) John G Cumming (Ca 1949–1954) William T Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955) Iain H Nicholson (Ca 1953–1957) Robert D Ferguson (CW 1953–1958) David G Johnston (Ca 1953–1958) David E Kilpatrick (CW 1956–1961) Michael G Hendry (Ki 1957–1962) Christopher J Hilton (Ki 1963–1967)

Fettes Steeplechase, 2019

Parents Roderick D Watt (SH 1973–1978) David A Cumming (Ca 1979–1983) Emma M McGrigor (née Fellowes) (Mo-Ar 1981–1983) Joanna M Prosser (Ar 1983–1983) Stuart H Buchanan-Smith (JS-Mo 1976–1984) Felix V Chen (Mo 1979–1984) Peter R Sutton (SH 1979–1984) Cordelia E Pilz (née Harrison) (Ar 1982–1984) Louisa M McEwan (née Greatrex) (Ar 1983–1984) Andrew M Farquharson (JS-Mo 1978–1985) Charlie B Maclean-Bristol (SH 1980–1985) Tom K Usher (JS-Gl 1979–1986) Christopher D Hodgson (SH-Gl 1981–1986) Seonaid M Macpherson-Raffell (née Macpherson) (Ar 1982–1986) Fiona M Banatvala (née Davidson) (Da-SH 1984–1986) Clare Martin (née Cockburn) (Da 1985–1987) Christian A Stulz (Ki 1985–1987) Jeremy D Kilpatrick (Mo 1986–1987) Christopher D Johnston (Ca 1983–1988) Leesa M Tulloch (née Walker) (Ar 1983–1988) Amanda A Mair (CW 1985–1989, Staff 2000–present) Jamie B Macpherson (Ca 1985–1990) Roy M Leckie (Ca 1985–1990) Mairi Mickel (CW 1986–1990) Katharine C Farquharson (née Macpherson) (CE 1988–1990) Caroline J Lindsay (née Donaldson) (CE 1988–1990) Vanessa L Wood (née Hendry) (JS-Ar 1984–1992) Richard A Llewellyn (Mo 1987–1992) Omar Quaba (Ki 1987–1992) Murdo A MacLean (Ki 1992–1996) Alexandros Symeonides (Gl 1992–1996) Markos Symeonides (Inv-Ki 1993–1997)

Fettes Steeplechase, 1954

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

IAIN MACLEOD AWARD

In 1974, the Iain Macleod Award Trust formed in honour of Moredun man The Rt Hon Iain Macleod (Mo 1927–1932).

Iain sadly passed away on 20th July 1970, aged 56, only a month after becoming Chancellor of the Exchequer. He had an outstanding career and was one of the most brilliant politicians of the time, however, his future success appeared to go undetected at school. Mr HF Macdonald (Staff 1925–1962) (Deceased) wrote following his death: “He was, in fact, a typical Fettes boy, sound and reliable, with no outstanding achievement to his credit when he left. In his later years he was the first to admit that he was rather lazy.

We meet him in the pages of The Fettesian only in lists of teams or in the accounts of school debates in which he took part, and although his contributions seem to us, as we read them today, to contain some sparks of his later brilliance, no one detected this at the time. The first indication that I, who had known and liked him as a boy, received that here was someone marked out for greatness, came from Sir Charles MacAndrew, the Deputy-Speaker, as I played golf with him at St. Andrews in, I suppose, 1950 or 1951, and he asked me what Old Fettesians were in the House of Commons. When I mentioned Iain Macleod, Sir Charles stopped in his tracks and said: ‘That is a very remarkable man’.”

A few years after Iain’s death, Old Fettesian friends including Lord Selwyn Lloyd (Gl 1918–1923) (Deceased), Speaker of the House of Commons 1971–1976 and Lord Fraser of Kilmorack (Mo 1929–1934) (Deceased), Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Party 1964–1975, decided to raise funds in Iain’s memory to establish a prize for the benefit of students at Fettes. The Trustees decided that

the prize should be for a travel award involving unusual and interesting projects. Current students apply annually via written application to the Trustees, following which the Trustees make their decision, always looking for a sense of fun and projects that relate to the applicant’s personal development or their preferred subject, hobby or interest.

Understandably, the 2020 recipient Thomas Kingan (PS-Ca 2013–2020) has been unable to take his planned trip to Germany yet. We got in touch with him to share his thoughts: “In an alternate Covid-free universe, this would instead be a report of my experiences on the trip made possible by the Iain Macleod award. Unsurprisingly, I did not travel to Germany to explore its reputation for superior Engineering and Design in the summer of 2020. Although there was a small window of international travel, very few of the fantastic places I wanted to visit were open, and I didn’t think it would have done the award justice.

“Having almost completed my first year studying Design Engineering at Imperial College London, my interest in the topic has only increased, and I can confidently say that a trip resembling my original submission will happen as soon as travel allows and I will be delighted to report back on my return. Having the trip ahead of me has been something to look forward to in this tricky year, and my thanks go to the Trustees for awarding the 2020 prize to me.”

Fingers crossed Thomas’s trip can take place soon and the trip the 2021 winners Leila F and Anna F are making from Inverness to Glasgow this summer goes well. We look forward to reporting on them both in next year’s Newsletter.

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

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THE WATT MEMORIAL TRUST

The Watt Memorial Trust was set up in 1983 in memory of Rob Watt (SH 1911–1916, Staff 1968–1978) and his wife Barbara. Rob’s obituary in The Fettesian spoke of his commitment to Fettes College: “It was an inspiration to invite Rob Watt to edit the Centenary edition of the Fettes Register. No one could have put into the task so much effort and care. The result was a volume that appeared on time, immaculately produced. And then he stayed on to keep it up to date and smooth the path for the editor of the next edition. He was just 80 when he retired. Rob had had an outstanding career: Head of School, XV, Oxford scholar, double first in Mods and History, played for the university, but too light to get a blue. He became a brilliant teacher of history (with classics and maths when needed), a wise and compassionate Housemaster at Rugby and Rector of Edinburgh Academy. He was always devoted to Fettes, where he had been very happy, and when he returned in 1967, he identified himself very much with the school, attending numerous functions, first with his devoted Barbara, later, sadly, alone. Rob was welcome in any company, among all generations. He was interesting and witty and blessed with a phenomenal memory. Active to the end, he died peacefully in his sleep.”

As Fettes College and Edinburgh Academy were both very close to Rob’s heart, the Watt Memorial Trust was set up in his and his wife’s name with the aim of giving financial assistance to past and present members of both schools.

The awarded grant enables recipients to “advance their education or professional training beyond the point at which public funds or university scholarships are available, or when private or family sources alone are not quite adequate for the purpose.” There have been many Old Fettesians and Academicals who have benefitted from the Trust. We spoke to a few recent OF recipients: Chloe Sutton (CE 2011–2016) “After completing my undergraduate degree in Psychology in Education at the University of York, I was keen to take a more practical approach to studying human behaviour. The Watt Memorial Trust allowed me to undertake a Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling at the University of Edinburgh. The skills and theories that I learned were paramount in my job at a care home during lockdown and have been endlessly helpful in my new role in healthcare market research.

“I am very grateful for the grant and the support of the Trust.”

Sandor Chernoff (Inv-Ki 1991–1995) “Thanks to the Watt Memorial Trust I was able to continue my postgraduate studies in Education at Massey University, by distance. I used the grant to travel to supervision on campus and buy seminal books that were otherwise unavailable at my university library.

“I have since acquired a role, in my discipline, as an Education-to-Employment Broker: part of a nationwide collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Social Development, and also the reform of vocational education currently taking place in NZ. My job is to broker, foster and/or support relationships and partnerships between secondary schools and the world of work. The outcomes are clearer pathways to careers for juniors, stronger transitions to employment, further education or training for seniors, and better employment outcomes for graduates. My postgraduate studies allowed me the time to research, work and write freely in this field of knowledge, and the result is my ability to better support the many students, whanau (family), educators, businesses and industries in my region that are all grappling with the uncertain future of work.

“On behalf of my family, I'd like to thank the Watt Memorial Trust for believing in me, and I hope my work can one day benefit the many stakeholders of young futures in Scotland.”

Sophie Cullis (CE 2012–2017) “The Watt Memorial Trust has provided invaluable financial support in order for me to pursue a master’s degree at Columbia University in New York, where I am studying European Politics and History. Studying abroad is rather costly and the grant awarded by the Trust has been set aside to cover the cost of my flights between the UK and New York. After I finish my MA in December my aspiration is to qualify for the Bar. Being able to travel back from the USA this summer will allow me to undertake inperson mini-pupillages in London.

“I cannot express how grateful I am for the support from the Watt Memorial Trust – thank you so much!”

If you think that the Trust could assist you, please do get in touch.

Deadlines are 1st September and 1st February. All enquiries to the Secretary: Anna Bennett, The WS Society, The Signet Library, Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RF abennett@wssociety.co.uk

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF GIRLS AT FETTES

Due to our inability to have a public celebration we used Twitter to promote this special anniversary. We showcased some images of early Fettesiennes, some reflections of early girls and the views of the Heads of girls’ Houses today.

There were tweets from the Sports department showing Fourth Form girls jumping for joy in their hockey session and there were tweets to promote access to the recorded Zoom conversations that we had with some of the very first girls.

You can see a selection on this page and the next.

Alongside our Twitter celebration the school flag flew on the 11th September 2020 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of girls at Fettes. The Head promoted the significance of the day in her digital assembly to the school as no Chapel was possible due to Covid restrictions. The whole school also watched a heart-warming video address from the President of the OFA Amanda Forsyth (née Baker) (Ar 1982–1984).

At the end of the day we received a response from our very first girl, 50 years on. Amanda Mackenzie-Stewart (Gl-Ca 1970–1972) wrote: “I’ve seen today’s Twitter celebration. Wonderful! I can’t tell you how delighted I feel.

I love the idea of the flag flying! It didn’t fly on my arrival as I recall. You’ve done such a fabulous job in really tricky circumstances.”

Lucy Redmond (Ar 2016–2021), Head Girl of Fettes College 2020/2021, also gave us her thoughts on the significance of the day: It was an honour to be asked to be Head Girl, and it is made even more special as we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of girls at Fettes this year. I feel extremely lucky to be the Head Girl in such an important year in the school’s history, where we are not only celebrating the 150th year of the school, but also the 50th year of girls. I find it unbelievable to think how this time 50 years ago, the first girls were being welcomed to the school, as today you would never know that girls weren’t always such a huge part of Fettes. It is amazing to think how in a relatively short space of time girls have become so important and Fettes wouldn’t be the same without them. Having been in Arniston, it was fascinating to learn about our history of originally being a boys House and to see it now as a thriving house for over 50 girls is very special. To be at Fettes today is such an opportunity for everyone, as it is a place to make lifelong friendships and gain invaluable life skills. For the girls, we are all so lucky to be part of one of four great girls Houses, where we feel at home and gain confidence which will help to shape us when we leave Fettes.

Fettes Community @fettescommunity

The sun made an appearance to finish off a truly wonderful day!

The current Fettesiennes spent time in their Houses watching some of the video interviews with the early girls and enjoyed the archival displays provided by the College Archivist, Craig Marshall. Never before has there been so much interest in the early brown skirts. The kilt is definitely preferred.

Girls have come a long way at Fettes. In 1970 our first girl made up 0.23% of the school roll. In 2020 girls made up a considerably larger 48.7%. At the start of this academic year there were 770 students at Fettes, 375 of whom were girls, with 287 in the College and 88 in the Prep School.

Later in the term we were treated to a thought-provoking virtual panel event with some highly intelligent women giving us their view on the next five years… from Leicester, Colorado and London and New York. They gave a fascinating and uplifting view on the global pace of change from their perspective. To listen to the podcast from this event search ‘Fettes Community Podcast’ on your usual podcast provider or by visiting this link: www.buzzsprout.com/1544329/ episodes/8081645

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

Fettes Community @fettescommunity

To mark this special day the flag is flying for the girls! (accompanied by true Scottish weather)

Fettes College Sport @fettes_sport

Exactly 50 years ago today the first girl joined Fettes. Our 4th form girls are celebrating with a fun hockey session in the sun.

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Fettes Community @fettescommunity

On the eve of the 50th anniversary of girls, what are your memories of the Fettes uniform?

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD Helen Harrison (Staff 1996–present) I am writing to you all at the end of the Summer Term after what has been another challenging year leading Fettes through extraordinary times. No one envisaged at the outset of the pandemic that we would be celebrating our 150th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of girls joining the school virtually and that our students would be learning from home again for the whole of the Spring Term. This term, as was the case in the Autumn Term, we lived our school life in ‘bubbles’ with strict guidelines on quarantine, facecoverings, hand-washing and various restrictions on what we could and couldn’t do. Fettes does not stand still, so we embraced everything, adapting and giving our students as authentic a Fettes experience as we could. Fire pits and outdoor socialising on House punt-abouts replaced indoor social events, as did outdoor cinema evenings and musical performances. We played lots of sport and the School Play, Much Ado About Nothing, evolved into an inspiring film shot here on campus. I do hope that you have had a chance to see this marvellous production featuring a hugely talented cast and many familiar settings.

How proud I am of every member of staff and every student. We may not have been able to come together as a whole school in Chapel (an occasion particularly close to my heart), or sit external exams but, nevertheless, owing to the creativity, resilience and determination of the staff and students we have been able to achieve so much. I would particularly like to thank the Senior Leadership Team for their unwavering support during this challenging time. Andy Shackleton, who joined Fettes as a Classics teacher in 1985 and has been Director of Studies/Deputy Head Academic since 2002, was a key member of this team until he retired on Founder’s Day. I am sure I speak on behalf of many Old Fettesians when I thank him for all that he has done for life at Fettes in his time here. My husband, Rob Harrison also retired from the classroom at the end of term, having joined Fettes in 1991 as an English teacher and running Carrington from 1999 to 2005. Although Rob has retired from teaching, he will continue to be a valued member of the Fettes team and I remain deeply grateful to him for his unending support. As I told the school, he will still be correcting my apostrophes in messages such as this one for years to come.

All OFs matter to the school of today and I am grateful to those of you who have come forward to share your experiences, positive and negative, of Fettes in the past.

Having been at Fettes for 25 years, latterly as Deputy Head, before becoming Head, I know that a Fettes education matters to our students, parents, staff and alumni, and the quality of that experience most certainly matters to me.

We all care about each other and we need to notice the little things as well as the big things. The pastoral care at Fettes today is of an exceptionally high quality and is sectorleading; however, we can never afford to be complacent.

It remains my focus to ensure that Fettesians have a happy and enriching time at the school. It was therefore absolutely

correct for me to appear in front of Lady Smith, Chair of the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry, and to apologise unreservedly for those occasions on which Fettes has fallen short in the past. This Inquiry into historic abuse in boarding schools in Scotland over the last 75 years is ongoing and is due to conclude towards the end of the year.

For our special anniversaries to fall in a global pandemic was a disappointment but it did not stop us from celebrating in as many ways as we could. I was very fortunate to have been on the roof on 5th October 2020 and to see the College flag raised to the sound of the pipes, and then to come down to the Callover Hall to join the School Prefects and Heads of House before reading out the names of the first students, just as Dr Potts had done exactly 150 years before.

Whilst I would have loved to have had the opportunity to have met many of you in person this year, I am thrilled that over 4,000 OFs from across the globe joined in the celebrations.

The global recovery from the pandemic is unchartered territory. Our efforts to celebrate Founder’s Day with our leavers were sadly thwarted by a Covid outbreak days beforehand. We missed enormously having our leavers and their parents present for Founder’s Day and I’m grateful to those who helped present an online alternative. I am very proud of these students, who depart Fettes as individuals ready for their next steps, well-rounded and with a good dose of humility. They will make excellent role models and wonderful Old Fettesians. I am grateful for the support that the OF network will give them as they progress on their journey ahead through the Fettes Career Partnership programme and through the spirit of friendship and support being a member of the OFA affords them.

Leading your wonderful school into the future gives me so much to be hopeful about. As things stand, we have our highest school roll ever for next term. We will welcome close to 800 students across the College and the Prep School, including around 150 new families from across the world.

We are a truly inclusive co-educational global boarding school and the work of the Fettes Equality Group is an important strand of our plans for the future.

I am looking forward to embarking on a positive school year in September, when we confidently expect to get back to enjoying a more recognisable Fettes term, including a much fuller range of co- curricular activities. For me though, above all, I am looking forward to getting the school back into Chapel and for us to once again enjoy that communal activity. Similarly, I look forward to being able to welcome Old Fettesians back to campus in your numbers again as soon as we can.

Floreas Fettesia!

Helen Harrison Head, Fettes College

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

HOUSE LIFE DURING THE PANDEMIC The academic year 2020/2021 has been an extraordinary one, with the Spring Term spent learning from home and restrictions in place when back on campus to help keep students and staff safe.

Life at Fettes has been understandably different. What hasn’t changed is the sense of belonging, community and spirit, as is exemplified in the following accounts from two Houseparents and two students sharing their perspectives on life at Fettes during a pandemic.

James Weatherby, Houseparent of Carrington, 2009–2021 In the latter stages of August 2020, it seemed that every day the newspapers were filled with possible new rules or protocols that were going to be in place for the start of the new school year. However, there was lots of ‘think tanking’ and we were able to put a plan together.

The overwhelming feeling in the autumn was that it was good to be back at school. The boys were terrific, but I had some sympathy for the Lower Sixth Form. These boys are usually tasked with working hard to bring the House together but this year the objective was to keep the boys apart within their own bubbles. We still found moments to enjoy each other’s successes, and friendships were created and maintained from a distance.

The toughest moment was realising students were not returning after Christmas because, having already had a Summer Term lockdown, I didn’t think it was something that we’d need to do again. It was a worrying time and a challenging period. Having a conversation over Teams or Zoom is not the same as seeing someone in person so it was more challenging to get an overview of how everyone was coping. It’s also more challenging to maintain a House identity when in reality everyone is at a distance.

Communication is the key in sustaining a sense of belonging to the House and so I attempted to be in contact with everyone by setting up weekly calls to touch base.

The Carrington Tutors were also terrific at keeping in contact with their tutees and the Lower Sixth were great at reaching out to the younger boys and setting up events like quiz sessions and extra sport gatherings. I also asked the boys to share videos and photos of their lives so that the CA community could see what everyone else was doing.

At the start of the Summer Term 2021, there was a real delight to be back at school, even though this meant returning to face to face assessments. The Spring Term was a tougher lockdown than the Summer Term of 2020 and I think there was excitement, anticipation and relief to finally be coming back. It was a delight to hear their excited chat and to settle into some semblance of routine.

We were still distancing, and wearing masks, but the boys could attend lessons, play sports, learn instruments and, most importantly, spend some time with each other (bubble permitting).

There are numerous things that I’m looking forward to being able to do in House again soon but the two at the top of my list are getting the entire school back into Chapel and also being able to run a House Area (gathering) without having to keep the year groups in separate bubbles.

Vasily T, Carrington Fifth Form After such a long break, surprisingly, it was easy to return to Fettes in August 2020 yet unusual. With restrictions in place, our daily habits had to change but it did not stop us from living the full Fettes experience. We knew we would all have to adapt to a new way of learning and boarding. Nonetheless, seeing friends and being with our Houses felt incredible. We knew that restrictions on mixing beyond year groups were necessary, but the downside was that it did stop us from socialising with different year groups which we did so much before Covid. I feel as a year group, we were able to become closer. The thing I missed most was undoubtedly one of the main aspects of being a Fettesian – Chapel and singing.

Over the Christmas break, as Covid grew fiercer, it became evident that we were not able to go back to Fettes in January. There was an element of sadness – not being able to be back at Fettes was going to be a mental challenge.

As a House, having gotten much closer during the Autumn Term and the fact that we were still meeting on Zoom weekly meant that there was definitely a sense of House and inclusiveness, even if some of us were 5000 miles away. Fettes did everything possible to make sure that home learning was effective, easy, and frankly enjoyable for many of us.

On our return in Summer 2021, there was a strong sense of déjà vu. This time, life at Fettes sprung right back up much faster than when the Covid related measures were new to everyone. Having been here for five years now, a big part of Fettes life is the ability to participate in whole school social events, such as discos and cèilidhs. That is something I miss a lot and am looking forward to having again.

Fettes has done a magnificent job in supporting students and staff through these tough times. There is more to Fettes than academia, it is also about community and making sure everyone is included in everything - that’s what I’m most proud of.

Sue Bruce, Houseparent of College West, 2006–present On returning to school after the summer break, it was great to have all of the girls back in House but challenging to face Covid restrictions and have year group bubbles – it goes against everything we are trying to do when making our Houses cohesive and caring.

During the Autumn Term, I did feel for the students who had not been home in the summer holidays. That is tough on anyone let alone teenagers, however, I was not concerned about the pandemic as measures were in place to protect everyone. The girls in House did find things harder to deal

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

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James Weatherby, Houseparent Carrington (2009–2021)

Sue Bruce, Houseparent College West (2006–Present)

with than normal and their anxieties would manifest in different ways and at different times.

After Christmas when I realised that the students were not going to be able to come back to Fettes, I initially felt sad but felt better equipped for the term and knew what we were letting ourselves in for. It was hard being a remote Houseparent as teenagers do not like talking at the best of times – let alone on Zoom or Teams! It was especially difficult for me as I thrive off people, so I found it hard myself as I was not able to interact with the girls as I would normally do in House. Happily, there was so much support from the girls, my family, the departments in the school, tutors, friends, and the Senior Management Team.

We sustained the feeling of belonging to the House remotely with weekly year group calls, House events, House calls, whole House meetings, activities, Kahoots, games, baking, Strava competitions and much more. When it came to returning for Summer Term 2021 there was a general feeling of excitement. The last lockdown was tough for all, so some were very apprehensive and have had wobbles, but on the whole, everyone was keen to get back to school and see their friends. It felt brilliant to have them back. They are a great bunch of talented young ladies with lots of fun even if they can drive you around the bend from time to time!

As a Houseparent I can’t wait until restrictions allow us to mix within year groups in the House and access all areas of the House again. It will also be great when we can resume whole House outings as well as year outings. Basically, for all the fun stuff to come back. From this tough academic year, I am most proud of the girls’ resilience, resourcefulness, flexibility, understanding and now their newfound appreciation for structure in their lives.

return to Fettes, I appreciated the strict Covid restrictions set in place.

I felt that I fell behind in a lot of my work during first lockdown. Returning to Fettes was bittersweet but ensured supervision of work from members of staff and teachers, increasing my efficiency in finishing work as well as learning.

However, as an introvert, I had enjoyed the tranquillity of lockdown and being away from the buzzing school life.

During both lockdowns, I missed my roommates the most.

I stayed in Britain over Christmas as I did not expect a second lockdown, but upon learning about the second lockdown a feeling of anxiety took over me as my GCSEs were starting in the next term. I was one of the few students who remained on campus during the Spring Term and, though I enjoyed the quietness of having my own ensuite room in Craigleith, as time went by I did feel quite lonely without the jovial voices around. With the assistance of school staff and encouragement from my teachers, I pushed through the tough term of online trial exams and exam preparations. Learning from home was interesting to say the least. It required a keen sense of responsibility and independence which I normally possess, and with help from staff I managed to stay focused.

On the first day of the Summer Term, I was surprisingly grateful to be back with my friends and teachers. As soon as I wore my uniform again, I felt the sense of responsibility.

Being back in school with a clear schedule and friends helped my concentration and determination to work. During the lockdowns, I did not get to go to rock climbing very often.

Occasionally Mr Rowlands would come into school to kindly host climbing sessions, which were the highlights of my month. I missed rock climbing with my pals even through the wintry weather. I am so proud of my mental wellbeing during these tough times. Despite occasional teary days, I stayed positive throughout both lockdowns with help and guidance from my Houseparent and other members of staff. I also managed to catch up with friends, getting closer to them.

Cressida T, College West Fifth Form During the summer holiday of 2020 I returned to Hong Kong, where my home is and where Covid restrictions had been in place for many months. Thus, I was accustomed to wearing a mask and sanitizing my hands whenever I could. Upon my

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

OLD FETTESIAN GOLFING SOCIETY

With the Covid-19 restrictions, most of the 2020 fixtures were cancelled, and the early season fixtures for 2021 rearranged. However, we completed our fixture against Marlborough at Sunningdale and the match against the School in May – losing to Marlborough and completing a halved match against the school. We also enjoyed taking part in the 150th Anniversary Global Golf Competition.

The Cyril Gray took place at Worplesdon in June where the Fettes team performed well, reaching the quarter-finals.

They were narrowly defeated by Canford 2-1. In the Senior Cyril Gray, Fettes finished a creditable 3rd, four points behind the winners. Later in the year, the Halford Hewitt has moved to September 2021 and the Scottish Wayfarers to October 2021.

OF Golfing Society Team against the School in May 2021

To join the OF Golfing Society, email OFGolfSociety@ fettes.com. For under 25s, it is free, and £20 per annum for those over 25. Instructions on how to set up a Standing Order will be emailed to you. Members receive an OFGS tie or blazer-pin on joining, and an annual report of how the OF Golf Team has done in the various matches along with the fixture list. There are five scratch tournaments and six handicap matches arranged throughout the year, mainly in Scotland and in London, which OFGS members can participate in, and, with OFs living around the world, it will always be possible to put you in contact with local golfers.

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OF SHOOTING REPORT

There has been no OF shooting this year due to the pandemic. Instead of the usual report we asked the Archivist, Craig Marshall, to showcase some of the shooting and CCF shooting through Fettes’ history.

We will get shooting up and running again as soon as it is safe for us to gather again at the Grassie Range at Fettes and for the Veterans Match at Bisley. If you have an interest in shooting please email ofa@fettes.com to be kept informed.

Carrington Shooting Team, date unknown

Moredun winning the Anderson Shooting Cup, 1918

Officers Training Corps Parade, 1909

Fettesians at Barry Camp, 1913

Fettes College Shooting VIII, 1960

Fettes wins Ashburton IVs, 2015. Sandy Forsyth (PS-Ar 2009– 2019), Francesca Beard (PS-Da 2009–2018), Ali Macdonald (Gl 2011–2016), Poppy Macdonald (CW 2010–2015)

Bisley 2018. Sandy Forsyth (PS-Ar 2009–2019) wins the Stewart Cup and her mother Amanda Forsyth (née Baker) (Ar 1982–1984) wins the OFA Tankard

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COMMEMORATION WEEKEND 2020 It will come as no surprise that, due to the pandemic, Commem 2020 did not take place as usual in October. Rest assured that the Newmen of 1940, 1950, 1960 and 1970 along with the Leavers of 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2015 will have the opportunity to reunite with their peers at Fettes when it is safe to do so.

It has become customary to display photographs of reunion years at Commem. In lieu of the opportunity to view these in person last October, we are delighted to be able to share some of the photos that would have been on display had Commem gone ahead.

We look forward to giving 2020 reunion years a chance to get together as soon as we can find a safe date or dates to do so.

To see the full versions of your photographs and to reflect on the Fettesian Magazines of your time do please sign in to fettescommunity.org and view the fully searchable digital archive.

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

150TH ANNIVERSARY OF FETTES COLLEGE

Even a global pandemic did not stop us celebrating the milestone 150th anniversary of Fettes College. We would have loved to invite everyone back to Fettes to celebrate with us, but due to restrictions we had to change our plans and keep everyone safe. However, we did all that we could to mark this special occasion. The long-term plans to celebrate the 150th anniversary have had the beautiful book, Fettes: Our Place at the heart. We were therefore delighted to be able to launch the book (virtually) on 2nd October as planned with an interesting session led by much loved member of the English department, Rob Harrison (Staff 1991–2021). Rob directed questions to the author of the book Ralph Hughes (Staff 1985–2017), to our Archivist Craig Marshall (Staff 2014–present) and to Karen Jones (née Houston) (Ar 1989–1991, Staff 2012–present). The team was able to talk about the journey to create and curate the book, sharing their choice of favourite nostalgic photographs, printed materials and objects from across the generations, which reflect life at Fettes on our beautiful campus over the last 150 years. The event was recorded and is available to watch here: vimeo.com/466071475/ d15a413bb2.

Research into the archives showed us that the school had been granted a half day holiday in 1891 to celebrate the ‘coming of age’ of Fettes College.

On the morning of 5th October 2020, the 150th birthday of the College, the Head chose to grant the students a birthday lie in. During this time, the Head Boy Torran Evans (PS-Mo 2013–2021) and School Prefect Ianthe Fraser (CE 2017–2021) joined the Head and Pipe Major Jamie Burnet (Mo 2016–2021) for a rooftop ceremony. The school flag was raised to the familiar sound of the bagpipes.

After this small ceremony, those who were gathered on the roof descended to Callover Hall. They were joined there by School Prefects and Heads of Houses to hear the Head read the names of the first 53 boys to come to Fettes, exactly as would have been done by Dr Potts (Staff 1870– 1889) 150 years ago to the day.

The Head, Torran and Ianthe then laid a laurel wreath at the bust of Sir William Fettes to commemorate all Old Fettesians who are sadly no longer with us, reviving a Fettes tradition dating back to the 1930s.

The small group of Prefects and Heads of Houses, representing the school, then made their way to Chapel

Fettes: Our Place

Diary entry of 1891 showing half day holiday

150th anniversary rooftop ceremony

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

Representatives of the school gather in Callover

A laurel wreath was laid at the bust of Sir William Fettes

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where they were welcomed by the Head. There were readings from Torran and Ianthe and the Chaplain led those present in prayer. David Goodenough (Staff 1998–Present) played the organ, including Floreas Fettesia. It was hard to resist the urge to sing, which was against Covid safe guidelines.

The Head, Torran and Ianthe then proceeded to the Queen’s Lawn to cut a special birthday cake and raise a toast to the first 150 years of Fettes College.

Video highlights from the 150th birthday celebrations can be viewed here: vimeo.com/465683764/6ba55c5a2f At morning break, all the Houses were presented with a copy of Fettes: Our Place. All staff and students then enjoyed cake and were gifted a commemorative badge to mark this momentous day.

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

The commemorative badge design was replicated from a beautiful music programme from the archives for a ‘Private Concert, Friday 4th April 1879’. This design has also been used on specially designed sports shirts in our anniversary year for the First and Colts A Teams in the College, and Senior Teams in the Prep, across a range of sports. These shirts were kindly sponsored by Graham’s The Family Dairy.

Following lunch break on our 150th birthday, some Third Form students gathered with the Head and Senior Leadership Team at the College West arcade to re-enact the first school photograph. This image was then used to launch an in-House photo competition which saw all the houses recreating a selection of photos from the last 150 years.

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

The day was rounded off with the premiere of our specially commissioned film, introduced by the Chair of the Governors, Michael Osborne, along with the Head, Torran and Ianthe. It emotively conveyed the true sense of Fettes and has been enjoyed by over 4,000 members of the Fettes community all over the globe.

We were so sorry that our Head Girl Lucy Redmond (Ar 2016–2021) was unable to participate in the celebrations.

Lucy was, however, able to be part of our celebrations later in the year.

During the 150th birthday week, each Head of House was asked to handwrite a letter to Sir William Fettes from the House. These letters are featured on pages 40–43. Each clearly shows the House’s gratitude to Sir William for his bequest to establish Fettes and notes why they are proud to be here today. The letters have been safely placed in the archives for future generations to be able to reflect on this point in Fettes history.

The week-long in-House photo competition launched on the 150th birthday was a real success. Students had such enthusiasm to recreate images either as they were originally or with a modern twist. Opposite is a selection of the images, some of our readers may find themselves in the original versions!

An event that was able to run as initially planned was the Fettes College 150th Anniversary Global Golf Competition, but even then we extended the entry period to ensure everyone could get a tee time. Old Fettesians, students, staff, former staff and parents, past and present, were invited to take part by playing a round of golf on any course in the world with a world handicap rating. Golfers were asked to play during the competition period 1st May – 20th June 2021 and email in a copy of their scorecard. Golfers participated across the globe in the UK, Malaysia, USA, UAE, Canada, France, Australia and Hong Kong. Students from the College and the Prep School also played in their own competition and those with a world handicap rating were able to enter the global competition.

A milestone anniversary with no OFs on campus, no Commem, no Chapel, a term of learning from home and no physical Founder’s Day is certainly not how we had planned the celebrations, BUT the Fettes community are truly resilient. We quickly adapted to new ways of doing things and embraced technology. We are so grateful to all who took part from across the globe. Floreas Fettesia to you all!

vimeo.com/464504965/aaa5079d56

Letters to Sir William Fettes

OF Golfing Society Secretary Andrew Soulsby (JS-Ar 1973–1980) with current students

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Then - 1971 Kimmerghame Prefects Now - Kimmerghame Boys

Then - 1909 Glencorse House Up Now - Glencorse Boys

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Then - 1875 School House Now - Dalmeny Girls

Then – 1907 Moredun Gymnastics Now – College East Girls

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LETTERS TO SIR WILLIAM FETTES Written to him on 5th October 2020 Dear Sir William Fettes, We write to you as Carringtonians who are proud to celebrate this historic moment for the school. As the second oldest house still standing we not only carry the legacy of Fettes but also that of 148 years of Carrington.

As custodians of a house that is the product of your legacy we would like to thank you for all the memorable moments Carrington as a house has experienced. From William Wilson being the first Carrington boy walking through these hallways of the House to War hero Sandy Gunn being the very embodiment of what it means to be a Carringtonian but most importantly a Fettesian.

Carrington while certainly different in many aspects now, would still be recognisable to many of the Old Fettesians.

Carrington and your legacy had their lives positively shaped by this community.

By being at every crossroad and every challenge that last 150 years has thrown at us Carrington can proudly say that it can reflect the impact you have had on the students in the past, the present and the future.

We thank you for creating this thriving environment that we can proudly call our school and our second home.

We hope and are confident that your legacy will continue to be upheld in the next one and a half decades.

Yours sincerely Carrington House

Dear Sir William Fettes, On behalf of Arniston House, on the 150th anniversary of the Founding of the College, I write to you in thanks of your bequest to establish Fettes; a thriving community of high achieving students and unified family. The progression of the school is a testament to your legacy and hard work and dedication that every pupil demonstrates, past and present.

Arniston House has made a significant journey in its 53 years; although the exterior has remained unchanged, the heart of the house is ever-changing. As boys (1967–1982) and girls (1982 onwards) have passed through, and continue to pass through the house, the attribute of being not only a house, but home has endured.

Currently loved by our Housemistress, Mrs Rachel Nicol, Arniston is universally recognised as a ‘happy house’. Each Arniston girl brings something unique to the house, and we are very proud of our collective achievements. Arniston is a caring family, where every girl has a role to play in the successful running of the house. Arniston girls are always there for friends who might need encouragement or support.

Trust and honesty are the cornerstones of our success.

We would like to acknowledge all Old Fettesians who have passed through Arniston, in its 53 years; they have sculpted it into what it is today. A specific acknowledgement goes to Sir Eric Anderson, passionate and committed who passed away this year. As first Housemaster of Arniston, he held onto memories of Arniston fondly throughout his life, returning in 2017 for the 50th anniversary of the House’s opening. Retired Prime Minister Tony Blair noted “no one forgets a good teacher,” in clear recognition of his Housemaster, Sir Eric, who he had a lot of admiration for. Sir Eric holds a very special place in Fettes’ heart and shall be remembered fondly by all those whose lives he touched.

On behalf of myself and my fellow Arnistonians, along with every Fettesian, Old Fettesian, and member of staff, I would like to say we are truly proud to be part of what you, Sir William, set out for us all those years ago. For your legacy and for Fettes, we are forever grateful.

Yours sincerely Arniston House

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Dear Sir William Fettes,

Dear Sir William Fettes,

I am writing to inform you of all the valuable developments that have happened recently as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first 53 boys at Fettes. Not only is it our 150th anniversary, it is also the 50th anniversary of girls at Fettes. This is obviously a hugely vital change that has given us the opportunity to study at Fettes, and most importantly be immersed in the Fettesian cultures and traditions.

As Dalmenians we are proud to say that Dalmeny is the newest girls house, established in 2012, and to this day we have seen over 250 girls pass through, with many more yet to come in the future. We definitely think you would be immensely proud of all the wonderful things both the current and past Dalmenians have been able to achieve in their time at Fettes. It’s fair to say all Dalmenians are extremely grateful for the opportunity given to them, as a result of the establishment of Fettes 150 years ago, as well as the introduction of girls 50 years ago.

As girls attending Fettes College, we are very thankful for the well-rounded education we receive, from the support on the hockey pitch, to the tight family bonds we develop in house.

Finally, the development of Fettes throughout the years is highly encouraging for future generations, especially with Mrs Harrison as Fettes’ first female Head.

Yours sincerely Dalmeny House

The opportunities that Fettes College has opened to all of us is unbelievable. We live in constant pride of being able to be a Fettesian from exams with great results to incredible school productions and to the heart, pride and grit that is left on all Fettes sport pitches.

Glencorse House has been able to receive some truly inspirational boys who everyday give us even more house pride as well as aspiration to be as successful as them. The wide range of professions of successful Glencorsians has proved that our house motto has inspired many: Numquam Onus, with many translations but the favourite being ‘No Passengers’. From the truly inspirational Angus Deaton (Economist) to Hector MacLean (winner of Victoria Cross) showing the opportunities available for people with varying skills, if you really throw yourself into Fettes life. Angus Deaton is an example of a Glencorsian who used his skills and talent to help others; he won a Nobel Prize in Economic Science in 2015 on his research in consumption, poverty and welfare and is, therefore, a great example of a Fettesian who used his skills to benefit others and was able to realise his privilege. Just like Sir William Fettes did for everyone who has been a Fettesian.

Sincerely Yours Glencorse House

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Dear Sir William Fettes, Fettes College has now been having an effect on pupils for 150 years. I am so proud to be here during that 150th anniversary and to be able to celebrate all the Old Fettesians who have been through before me.

Not only is this year the anniversary of 150 years of boys at Fettes, but also the anniversary of 50 years of girls in the school. The first girls joined in 1970 and went into Glencorse.

We now have an almost 50/50 split of boys and girls, as well as having four girls houses. This can only be a positive move as we navigate for equality in this world.

I am very proud to be the Head of House for College East this year. Schoolhouse split in two; now College East and College West. Of course, College East is the best house, but I am sure everyone would say that about their house.

So much has changed in Fettes over the 150 years, and yet so much is the same. The atmosphere here is welcoming and the students are kind and polite. The school has so much to offer to us pupils and I know that we are so grateful for the opportunities that we are given here.

All the girls in College East are so proud to be part of the school and to be able to celebrate this momentous anniversary. All the thanks for that go to you, and what you started 150 years ago.

Yours sincerely College East

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

organ play, seeing the magenta and chocolate coloured blazers and being part of the resonant sound of the school in song. This scene is something that every current and Old Fettesian will remember. Personally being Head of House gives me a sense of pride. Seeing the many names of former heads of Kimmerghame engraved on the same door frame shows that these people have literally become part of the house’s legacy. Stepping into my final year at Kimmerghame my mind is often brought to the Founder’s Evening singing of the house hymn I Vow to Thee My Country. This moment in a Kimmerghamian’s career is incredibly emotional but it also helps us remember Old Fettesians who have done the very same thing.

The Old Fettesians are very much part of the Fettes Community even though they do not attend the school.

This is evident from their names seen on plaques around the school and in our boarding houses. Tony Blair’s name is one of the most prominent examples in Kimmerghame House. However, the best memory of them is found from our own recollection. I have been lucky enough to meet many Old Fettesians during Open Day and Founder’s Day, but also in places that seem to be a world away from Edinburgh.

Entering Kimmerghame in Third Form, pride is instilled through the stories Old Fettesians share with us, and this in turn gives us the incentive to make similar memories and the motivation to strive for excellence in our time at Fettes.

Kind regards Kimmerghame House

Dear Sir William Fettes,

Dear Sir William Fettes,

Years after Fettes opened, on the 150th anniversary we are commemorating your benevolent bequest to the education of young people. I am sure you would be glad to hear that, even in this current phase in Fettes’ history with another lockdown looming in the not-so-distant future, your enthusiastic and lively culture is still being preserved due to the amazing individuals being nurtured in your legacy. Since you first opened Fettes College to the public, important steps have been made to establish Fettes as the diverse and accepting place it is today. Arguably, the most significant movement forward in Fettes College was the school’s admittance of the first female student. The 11th Head of School and first Headmistress is leading the school, like a steady in a storm, through a pandemic that has threatened our way of life. Allowing us to continue our education and keep our campus alive is a feat of distinct leadership.

The schooling and tuition of young people was your first goal. This philanthropic intent is still being illustrated through the bursary and scholarship programme the school provides. Without this initiative many people such as myself would not be able to attend Fettes. It is for this reason I like many people, are filled with gratitude to be given such an exceptional opportunity. I have always known Fettes to be a place where I can strengthen my talents with the support of the keenly nurturing housemasters, housemistresses, teachers and staff who have always played such integral roles in this school.

The Fettes community has an unwavering pride for their school, I believe that this sense of belonging is based in the traditions that we have upheld for many decades.

An example of this is stepping into the Chapel, hearing the

We are celebrating the 150th anniversary of Fettes College, and it represents all the generations of our large Fettes family, and all that we need to thank you for. Fettes is a unique community which has such a welcoming and inclusive environment, and one which creates successful individuals. Our community is hard-working, supportive and positive; one that I am sure you would be happy to see today.

One of the most special things about being in College West is that we are at the heart of Fettes, in the stunning Bryce building; where there is so much history in our house, an amazing reminder to us of all the previous generations of Fettesians. It is an inspiring thing to be sitting in Chapel, the common room, in dorms and thinking of the past 150 years of Fettesians passing through, going through similar and valuable experiences to us now. An experience at Fettes is something that we are all so grateful for, not only because of the amazing quality of education and variety of opportunities we receive, but also for the incredible friendships and memories we create. Memories that shape us as young people and set us up for further success and happiness in the future. All Fettesians will be forever grateful to you for establishing this school, from the first Fettesians 150 years ago, to the first girl 50 years ago, to our generation in 2020 and all of those in the future. You are responsible for a beautiful, hard-working, hugely special and kind community which is ever progressing and changing for the better, but ultimately keeping its same core values.

Thank you from College West

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

Dear Sir William Fettes, Both the Moredun boys and I are very grateful that you have founded such a well-rounded school whose achievements are both academic and sporting. This school and its teachers provide a good stepping-stone towards a successful life. We are proud to be Fettesians not only because of the outstanding education but because of the welcoming society that over the years has been created.

Moredun men have always been respectful, welcoming, have served their country and done their duties to the upmost. And this is still a very important rule in Moredun today. James Adrian Blaikie was the first Fettesian to die in battle in 1879 at the battle of Isandlwana. He could have escaped the attack, but instead stayed and fought with his friends to the last. This mentality can still be seen in Moredun today as no man is left behind and we strive to have the courage that he did. In the First World War, the first Fettesian to lay down his life was Capt John Erskine Young , another Moredun man who led the fighting from the Battle of Mons in 1914. He and his men are remembered in the Belgian village where they are buried with a plaque that recalls “Thirteen heroes against an army”. Two of the four Victorian Crosses awarded to Fettesians through the years have gone to Moredun men: Lt Donald Mackintosh and Lt Col Bertie Anderson , both won the supreme award for bravery leading their men against incredible odds in the First World War. Their spirit of fearless determination and leadership is something we value today.

Like you, Moredun men have also conquered both the Politics and Business Worlds. Iain Macleod was a great Debater and Statesman. He stood up for what he thought was right, even if it meant standing alone against his own Political Party, as he worked for Independence for British

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Colonies and challenged the way leaders were chosen. In a speech to the Conservative conference, he quoted Robert Burns, the national bard of Scotland and friend of your wife’s family, who you supported: That Man to Man, the warld o’er, Shall brithers be for a’that.

Moredun today is an international House which lives up to that idea. An early symbol of our global connections was Moredun man Sir William Crawford Currie, a man after your own heart, built the P&O Shipping company to be the largest of the time. The famous Salvesen shipping family have also been Moredun men. But we do not forget culture: the first pipe-major of the school’s beloved band, Alan Drummond Law, was a Moredun man, and the House is well known for its plays.

The whole school can see the legacy of Moredun’s contributions to Fettes: researchers use our records, everyone enjoys the pipe band, debaters compete for the Iain Macleod prize, and every day we pass reminders of the two Moredonians who won the Victoria Cross. In the History corridor of our main College building is a painting of Lt Mackintosh, and on the War Memorial the words “Carry on” are engraved: the last words of Lt Col Anderson.

The will to succeed can still be seen in the Moredun boys today; over the last four years there have been four Head Boys, all of whom have been Moredun men. In the last two years Moredun have won the House singing competition, House Hockey twice and House Football. And we can clearly see the same will to succeed and drive in the younger boys that has been seen so often throughout the years of Moredun House.

Yours sincerely Moredun House

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FETTES AT THE OLYMPICS

Sport has always played an important role in the life of Fettes, so it comes as no surprise that some of our OFs have gone on to become Olympians. As the sporting world looks to the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan (23rd July – 8th August) at time of print, we take a look at the OFs and staff that have either represented their country at the Olympics or are looking forward to doing so in Tokyo.

Ian Bowhill MBE (Gl 1917–1920) (Deceased) represented Great Britain in the Men’s Singles Figure Skating at the 1928 Winter Olympics, St. Moritz, Switzerland, finishing in 14th place.

Dr Ewan Douglas (Gl 1936–1940) (Deceased) represented Great Britain in the Men’s Hammer Throw at the Summer Olympics of 1948 and 1952. During his athletic career, he set three British records, with his third record in 1955 (58.68 m) standing as a Scottish national record for 12 years.

A. Fergus Murray (Staff 1967–1997) represented Great Britain in the 10,000m at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.

Fergus shared his thoughts with us ahead of Tokyo 2020: “I was very disappointed coming 22nd as I was suffering from a cold. However, the Olympic experience was magnificent and unlike nowadays, there was little security and a very relaxed and informal atmosphere. We shared 4 to a room and they were never locked. Lynn Davies had his long jump gold medal sitting openly on his table although I didn't share a room with him.

“In my early years at Fettes on the staff, the College were very supportive in enabling me to continue running at a high level up to and beyond the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh.

“I am not sure how I feel about the 2020 Olympics taking place in Tokyo with the constraints and confinements.

We were able to explore Tokyo after competing and also train in the adjacent Meiji Park.”

Lizzie Goodburn

Fiona McIntosh (Ca 1976–1978) represented Great Britain in Fencing at the Summer Olympics of 1984, 1988, 1992 and 1996. At the Barcelona Olympic Games held in 1992, Fiona reached the quarter finals of the Foil, the best result for a British female since 1956.

Lizzie Goodburn (née Crichton) (CW 1993–1998) represented Great Britain in the rowing team at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. We caught up with Lizzie about her experience: “I felt very proud, excited and a bit nervous to be representing Great Britain at the Olympic Games. I was also delighted by all the new kit emblazoned with Union Jacks. However, as the sports psychologists told us, you have to try to put the pageantry out of your head and focus on winning your races. Luckily, the rowing competition concludes in the first week of the Olympic schedule so there is plenty of time in the second week for 'rest and relaxation'!

“Without a doubt Fettes helped in my journey to the Olympics in so many ways. Fettes gives you the opportunity to try so many things, academic and extra-curricular so you can find your place to excel. My classmates are lifelong friends and have been a constant source of support and encouragement. Boarding taught me resilience and independence, as well as allowing me in the CW kitchen to perfect the art of making instant noodles with a three-round marmite toast chaser – a skill that certainly proved useful after particularly hard training sessions.

“Lacrosse was my best sport at Fettes – I have lots of memories of glorious muddy victories and equally muddy crushing defeats. I have very fond memories of the many teachers who gave their time to coaching us and driving all around Scotland to matches. I will also never forget the bone-chilling fear of the inter-house cross-country and mile relay – let's just say I'm better at sitting down sports than ones that involve running!

“In the Olympic year I was lucky enough to be able to call rowing my full-time job. We had three training sessions a day,

Katherine Douglas with her fellow Great British Rowing team members

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Katherine Douglas and Jake Wightman are both current Olympians Susan Wightman

Jake Wightman

one at 8am, another mid-morning and another mid-afternoon, a mixture of on-the-water sessions, strength work and the dreaded ergo machine. At the time I just got on with it, in hindsight I can't believe I managed it, especially the dark winter mornings on the Thames brushing the ice off the oars.”

Katherine Douglas (Inv-CW 2000–2007) will be representing Team GB Rowing in the Women's Eight at the forthcoming Tokyo Olympics. Katherine’s first GB international outing was in 2011 when she raced in the Women’s Eight at the World Rowing U23 Championships in Amsterdam, finishing fifth.

As part of the Team GB Women’s Eight she has gained many achievements including winning silver and bronze in the World Cup series, finishing fifth at the 2017 World Rowing Championships and finishing second at the 2018 European Championships in Glasgow. We wish her all the best for Tokyo from all within the Fettes community.

Susan Wightman (Staff 2007–2013) represented Great Britain in the marathon at the 1988 Summer Olympic Games in Seoul finishing 12th in a time of 2:31.33 – “Running in the Olympics was a life-time experience and one of my greatest memories in my running career. Just prior to the Olympics, ironically, we stayed in a holding camp in Tokyo for two weeks. My fondest memory of the Games was coming into the stadium full of spectators, knowing that I only had just under a lap of the track to run. The conditions were hot and very humid – the race started at 7.30am to minimise the effects on the athletes. It was a gruelling race and it was such an elation to cross the finish line.

“I have always thought that sport at Fettes is inclusive and the vast range of activities offered allows all students to find something that suits them. I have seen sport at Fettes go from strength to strength over the last decade and it is heart-warming to see how passionate the students feel about representing the school.

“If I was still competing today, I would feel so grateful and relieved that the Olympics are going ahead although disappointed that I would miss out on the full experience of a proper Olympics. Without spectators, and not being able to watch and cheer other team members, the games will lack atmosphere. However, it is still the pinnacle for all sports and the best sportsmen and women in the world will be there to compete for those precious medals.

“As Jake Wightman’s (Gl 2008–2012) mother, I am both excited and nervous about him competing in the Olympics.

I know as part of the GB team in Tokyo, Jake will run to his capability and ‘be the best he can be’!”

Jake Wightman (Gl 2008–2012), son of Susan Wightman, is representing Great Britain on the running track in this year’s Olympic Games. We spoke to him ahead of Tokyo: “Representing your country at the Olympic Games is the highest honour you can receive in my sport. It's an achievement which is recognised not just by the athletics community, but by everybody. I feel very proud to be able to say I’m an Olympian and it’s a badge of honour that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my life.

“I think Fettes helps you develop a strong work ethic and discipline across all aspects of your life. This has allowed me to give the highest level of commitment possible to succeed with my running. Fettes was also the first time I was exposed to strength and conditioning as well as nutritional help through the Elite Athlete Programme whilst I was there. These formed the foundations of what have become significant parts of my training and lifestyle.

“My strongest memory of sport at Fettes is Sports Day. For me this is probably because it was a chance to showcase our ability if we did athletics, but I also love the fact you see everybody giving their best to pick up points for their House, even if it's in an event they've never done before. One of the great things about Fettes is the huge range of sports you can try whilst you are there. It gives every student a chance to find something they can be successful at, but more importantly enjoy.

“Training during the pandemic has been a lot more difficult than it would normally be. We have had to be adaptable in where we can train as there's been long periods without access to a gym or a track. We also haven't been able to go on our normal training camps abroad throughout the year. It's all been about making the most out of what we have been able to do and being as proactive as possible to the changes that have occurred.”

We wish him all the best from all within the Fettes community.

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

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OLD FETTESIAN EVENTS 2020–2021

Events have certainly faced challenges this year, however we have embraced technology and brought thousands of OFs together virtually throughout our special anniversary year.

2nd October – Book Launch of Fettes: Our Place

Our wonderful book, Fettes: Our Place, was launched virtually on Zoom, via a panel interview hosted by much loved member of staff Rob Harrison (Staff 1991–2021). Rob directed questions to the author of the book Ralph Hughes (Staff 1985–2017), to our Archivist Craig Marshall (Staff 2014–present) and to Karen Jones (née Houston) (Ar 1989–1991, Staff 2012–present).

The team were able to talk about the journey to create and curate the book, sharing their choice of favourite nostalgic photographs, printed materials and objects from across the generations, reflecting life at Fettes on our beautiful campus over the last 150 years. The event was recorded and is available to watch here: vimeo.com/466071475/d15a413bb2.

We had some great feedback: “Thank you to everyone involved in the virtual event for the Fettes Book Launch. It was lovely to see Mr Ralph Hughes after so many years – he was the reason I chose to study Art History at the University of St Andrews back in the 90s! It was wonderful to hear him talk of what people remember from their time at Fettes – his comments about wading through the gravel every morning brought memories flooding back! Many thanks to everyone again – I'm off to order the book!” (OF, leaver of 1993) “A little note to say a massive well done for your book launch tonight.

Such a relaxed, conversational tone

and very informative. Thank you for such insight.”

3rd October – OFA AGM The OFA AGM took place on Saturday 3rd October on Zoom, with around 90 signed up to attend, including the full OFA Committee. The meeting included a report on recent OFA activity, an update from the Head, and the approval of Honorary OFs. Prior to the AGM, at the OFA Committee meeting, the OFA Presidency was passed from Amanda Forsyth (née Baker) (Ar 1982–1984) to Henry Cave (SH 1980–1984) after Amanda’s three years in post.

We are extremely grateful to Amanda for all she has done as President of the OFA. Our sincere thanks also go to Eric Young (Ar 1969– 1974) for his support as OF Governor over the years. He has now stepped down from this role and Roy Leckie (Ca 1985–1990) has taken his place.

5th October – Virtual Premiere of the Celebratory Film featuring Archive Footage and OF Voices

Old Fettesians, current students, parents (past and present), staff and other friends of Fettes came together on the 150th birthday of the College to watch a short specially commissioned film that emotively conveys the true sense of Fettes. The film was introduced on Zoom by Helen Harrison, Head of Fettes College, who was joined by Michael Osborne, Chair of the Governors, and Torran and Ianthe.

Afterwards, everyone watching raised a toast to Fettes College to celebrate this momentous day, from wherever they were in the world.

We were delighted to receive some lovely feedback from people who

watched this special film, which can still be viewed using this link: vimeo.com/464504965/aaa5079d56.

“The film certainly captured recurring memories and appreciation of what Fettes did for us, in our formative years, albeit a few years ago now.

Floreas Fettesia!” (OF, leaver of 1965) “As the parent of two very lucky Old Fettesians and the sister of one a bit older, I was really impressed with the footage and I very much look forward to watching it again with something a bit stronger than a glass of water!”

(Past Parent) “Now having two sons at Fettes and with one to come next year, I feel as if I know the campus well, but I particularly liked some of the pictures of the slope going up to Youngs and remembering balmy (or so they seemed then) evenings on the running track, practicing for Sports Day or chipping a ball around the golf course; sadly, something no more, but great memories. Thank you once again for pushing my personal nostalgia button, which I greatly enjoyed.” (OF, leaver of 1986 and Current Parent) “Watching the video filled me with a deep sense of pride and so many happy memories came flooding back.

I wish I could do it all again! When you’re at Fettes you're so focussed on results, but what I think is so special about the school is that when you look back, the results don’t mean a thing – it is everything else about the experience that one cherishes.

I remember fondly the Rev. Brian McDowell (Staff 1999–2007) saying in Chapel that ‘education is everything we remember, once we’ve forgotten what we’ve been taught’. Never a truer word spoken by the great man.” (OF, leaver of 2006) “My girls were really taken with the video – such a nice way to showcase the school. Well done – lots of proud Westies/Fettesians on campus and around the world.” (Houseparent College West) “This anniversary film is remarkable.” (OF, leaver of 1990)

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“I have just watched the video and it was amazing – it was so moving, and it was a perfect way to celebrate the 150th.” (OF, leaver of 2020) “This film is so great! The girls in College East loved watching it together this evening. What incredible archival footage you have been able to include!

It was so interesting to see what the school used to be like, what things have changed, and what has stayed the same over time. The girls enjoyed spotting themselves/their friends in some of the more recent footage too.

I found it very moving, and it really gave them a sense of what a special place Fettes is.” (Current Assistant Houseparent) “Really beautiful words and footage.

I watched it with the kids and replayed my favourite bit twice – the lady who says it’s all about making choices and that the more you put in the more you get out. Spot on!” (Current Staff) “The speakers were brilliant, and the film was amazing – I loved the voice overs and the images – the black and white shots were so perfectly interlaced with the present; I was quite teary by the end!” (Current Houseparent) “It was wonderful to be transported back to Fettes, not only in listening to the speeches but also watching the wonderful Fettes 150–year celebration film.” (OF, leaver of 1992) “Thank you so much for sending this link. I'm in Canada, in quarantine, with dreadful Wi-Fi and poor cell phone reception, so it has been lovely to be able to view the 150th anniversary film in full. My daughter joined the Fettes Prep 2nd Form as a boarder this September, and the film has not only moved me deeply, but filled me with a new form of hope and optimism for her future, despite these horribly challenging times across the globe.

“I'm going to toast Fettes with a cup of tea and try and regain my composure now (!), but I wanted to let you know that your film touched me, as a new parent, and that I hope that one day, my daughter will contribute her voice to your 175th anniversary celebrations as positively and movingly as today's Old Fettesians have done for your 150th.” (Current Parent) “It was lovely to see familiar faces and hear of others, and so many memories to be proud of.” (Former Staff) “The film was stunning and beautifully encapsulated everything

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

that we love about Fettes.” (Current Prefect).

“Gosh, what a film. Quite emotional for me somehow.” (OF, leaver of 1970s) 11th November – Remembrance Film with the Last Post

As we were unable to invite anyone on to campus to gather at the War Memorial, we created and shared a poignant two-minute film featuring the War Memorial, accompanied by a performance of the Last Post by student Davina H-M to help us all remember those who lost their lives.

You can watch it here – vimeo.com/477621289/d6df96fd59 12th November – OF Female Panel Event

We were treated to an exceptional virtual panel event on Thursday 12th November to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of girls joining Fettes. Dame Stella Manzie DBE (Ar 1976–1978), Dr Alison Brown, PhD (Ca 1973–1975) and Dr Jo Twist OBE (Ar 1986–1991) provided a meeting of great minds, giving us their view on the next five years. From Leicester, Colorado and London, they gave a fascinating and uplifting view on the global pace of change from their perspective. There were key thoughts on technological enablement, digital literacy, creativity, tolerance, the environment, humanity and care. This event was expertly chaired from New York by Poppy Mitchell-Rose (InvCW 1991–1998) and well attended by around 200 OFs, members of the Sixth Form, staff and parents. You can listen to our podcast of the full recording of this intelligent, inspirational and insightful conversation by searching ‘Fettes Community Podcast’ on

your usual podcast provider or by visiting this link: www.buzzsprout. com/1544329/8081645 30th November – St Andrew’s Day Events

Our aim for St Andrew’s Day was to give everyone in the Fettes community the opportunity to join us for at least one of three events, so they were programmed to span different time zones across the globe. We were thrilled therefore to be joined by members of the Fettes community from all over the world, with subsequent positive emails of support arriving from Johannesburg, Hong Kong, London and California – to name but a few.

The day began with our History Highlights at 8am in the UK (5pm in Tokyo / 7pm in Sydney), insightfully delivered by members of the History Department. This was followed at noon in the UK (2pm in Johannesburg / 8pm in Hong Kong) by the Head, Helen Harrison, on the topic of Fettes Today. The day closed at 6pm in the UK (1pm in New York / 10am in San Francisco) with Into the Archives, expertly delivered by College Archivist, Craig Marshall, who shared a range of artefacts and associated stories, leaving everyone who tuned in wanting more.

We are delighted that these virtual events were able to bring the global Fettes community together. We recorded the Into the Archives session and if you would like to watch it, it is available to view using this link vimeo.com/486788797/303f39d104 Some of the fantastic feedback received from the day includes: “I have just listened to/watched the Archivist’s programme and found it interesting, although of course my appetite has been encouraged and I now want to see more about the Old Days at Fettes!” (OF, leaver of 1961) “Just to congratulate you and all concerned with the History Highlights.

It was brilliantly researched and delivered; a thoroughly interesting,

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

worthwhile and enjoyable 40 minutes.”

(OF, leaver of 1959) “Thank you so much for hosting the three St Andrew’s Day webinars – most interesting and informative.” (OF, leaver of 1958) “Thank you so much for your riveting and informative presentation tonight. So much history – and it is good to know that it is in the best hands possible. Very interesting about the digitalisation – at least it won't get lost.” (OF, leaver of 1964) 14th December – Carol Service for the Fettes Community

We were delighted to be able to share our 2020 Carol Service with Old Fettesians. This was filmed in advance, in accordance with government guidelines. The readers were filmed safely in Chapel and the carols were from recordings made in 2016 and 2019. In these unprecedented times when we were unable to gather, sing and pray together at Christmas time, it was wonderful to have Old Fettesians, parents, staff and students joining us from all over the world to participate in this Festival Service of Lessons and Carols.

“Well done to whoever put it all together – it might be the nearest thing to a church service, that most of us will see this year!” (OF, leaver of 1960) 15th December – Launch of the Fettes Community Podcast with Organ Music for Christmas

Our very first podcast featured long standing Director of Music, David Goodenough (Staff 1998–present), insightfully introducing a collection of organ music that he had chosen to play for us for the Christmas season.

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To listen again, please visit www. buzzsprout.com/1544329/6856303 or search ‘Fettes Community Podcast’ on your usual podcast provider.

Playlist: ʜ Gerre Hancock (1934–2012): Fanfare on ‘Antioch’ (Joy to the world!) ʜ J.S.Bach (1685–1750) arr. Marcel Dupré: Sinfonia, from Cantata No. 29 ʜ Louis-Claude Daquin (1694–1772): Noël Suisse ʜ J.S.Bach: Three Chorale Preludes: Wachet auf, ruft uns die stimme (BWV 645) – ‘Sleepers, wake’; In Dulci Jubilo (BWV 608); In Dulci Jubilo (BWV 729) ʜ John Ireland (1914–1992): The Holy Boy (The Carol of the Nativity) ʜ Herbert Sumsion (1899–1995): The Holly and The Ivy ʜ Healey Willan (1880–1968): Prelude on ‘This Endris Nyght’ ʜ Richard Purvis (1913–1981): Prelude on ‘Greensleeves’ (What child is this?) ʜ Charles-Marie Widor (1844–1937): Toccata from Organ Symphony No. 5 ʜ G.F. Handel (1685–1759): Hallelujah Chorus

As part of the challenge, both schools competed in a two hour-long virtual fixture on 20th February to see which school could total the furthest distance during this timeframe. Both schools made a tremendous effort, and after hours of number crunching

by Mark Appleson, Director of Sport at Fettes (Staff 2020–present), the results were confirmed as follows: ʜ 297 runs/walks recorded by Fettes for 2530.57km ʜ 343 runs/walks recorded by Strathallan for 2612.24km Very close indeed!

3rd March – 150 Years of International Rugby – Fettes College Panel Conversation

February 2021 – Fettes Fit in February

During February, the Fettes community competed against Strathallan School in Perthshire to see which school could run or walk the furthest number of kilometres during the 28 days of February. The competition was a huge success with over 800 members of the Fettes community getting involved. We were delighted to see students, staff, parents and OFs from all over the world taking part. During the difficult time when the UK was in lockdown, the feeling of community was particularly important, and it has been fantastic to feel connected even when far apart over the last year.

On Wednesday 3rd March, Mark Appleson and Head of Rugby, Duncan Harrison (Staff 1999–present), hosted a light-hearted rugby conversation with former international players Ian Robertson (Staff 1968–1972) and George Biagi (Gl 1999–2004).

As the 150th Anniversary of Fettes College coincided with 150 years of the international game of rugby, we took the opportunity to enjoy a reflective conversation on the changes to international rugby over the last century and a half.

The first game of rugby at Fettes, or ‘football’ as it was known then, took place on 12th October 1870, just a week into the very first term of Fettes College. A first-hand account records: “Football began on the 12th with a Bigside. It was indeed a big side, as the whole School (except one delicate boy) and three Masters were in the one game. There were five backs and twenty-two or twenty-three forwards aside. It was Rugger, but very different from the game we know now, and we played with a round ball.”

Several months later, on 27th March 1871, the international game

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

of rugby began with the first Calcutta Cup match between Scotland and England at Raeburn Place, less than a mile away from Fettes in what is now the heart of Stockbridge.

When Ian Robertson joined the Fettes staff in 1968, international rugby was still an amateur sport.

Whilst at Fettes, Ian balanced playing three Calcutta Cup matches with being a member of the English department, a Bigside XV coach and resident tutor in Carrington! During the podcast, Ian shared his thoughts and memories with us from his time at Fettes to many rugby tales from his life as a BBC Rugby Correspondent from 1983–2018.

In 2000, when George Biagi was in Third Form at Fettes, Italy joined the Five Nations Championship, creating what is now the Six Nations. George recalled watching the very first Italy v Scotland match in Glencorse Area and being relieved that Italy won the game.

His allegiance was with Italy who he went on to play for between 2014–2018, gaining 23 caps. George shared with us his rugby journey from player to management, placing an importance on academics and on developing a career alongside professional sport ready to step into should physical injury prevent play.

We are exceptionally grateful to Ian, George, Mark and Duncan for their time and thought-provoking conversation. It will be interesting to watch the journey of international rugby as we look to the future.

This rugby conversation and a Q&A, which was recorded following the live event, are available to listen to by searching ‘Fettes Community Podcast’ on your usual podcast provider or by visiting these links: ʜ 150 years of International Rugby – www.buzzsprout. com/1544329/8074336 ʜ Q&A – www.buzzsprout. com/1544329/8075046

the following Old Fettesians were able to join us to have a conversation about the world of golf. ʜ Abercrombie Nisbet (PS-Ar 2014–2020), previous captain of Gullane Golf Club Juniors ʜ Graham Findlay (Ki 1972–1975), previous captain of Royal St George’s Golf Club ʜ Alistair Campbell (Ca 1967–1971), previous captain of HCEG Muirfield ʜ Chris Hilton (Ki 1963–1967), previous captain of The R&A ʜ Chaired by Doug Philip (Inv-Mo 1999–2005), captain of the OF Golfing Society They talked informatively about the effect of the pandemic on the game, the changes in the rules of the game and about developing the game across the world for families and women.

To listen to this podcast search ‘Fettes Community Podcast’ on your usual podcast provider or visit this link: www.buzzsprout. com/1544329/8630008

1st May – 20th June Fettes College 150th Anniversary Global Golf Competition The 150th Anniversary Global Golf Competition was the only one of the 150th anniversary events, programmed before the pandemic, that was able to go ahead as planned and even then, we lengthened the time to participate so that as many as possible could get a tee time over the period.

Old Fettesians, students, staff and parents were invited to take part by playing a round of golf on any course in the world with a world handicap rating. Golfers were asked to play a round of golf during the competition period 1st May – 20th June 2021 and upload a copy of their scorecard.

Congratulations to the winners: ʜ Bryce Fraser, Current Parent, who received the special Donald Steel (Gl 1950–1956) Quaich. ʜ The winning Old Fettesian Golf Society Member was Andrew Soulsby (JS-Ar 1973–1980). ʜ The winning OF was Simon Waller (CE 1967-1969). ʜ The winning Senior Student from Fettes College was Rory C (PS-Ca 2015–present) ʜ There were four winners from Fettes College Prep School

2nd June – Fettes Community Podcast – Fettes Talks Golf

To coincide with the Fettes College 150th Anniversary Global Golf Competition, we were delighted that

In-person events will begin as soon as it is safe to do so. These events will be supported by our Regional Representatives who are working to establish deeper connections with the OFs in their region. A full list of OF Regional Representatives can be found on page 52 so you can contact your local representative. If there is a region you would like to volunteer for please contact Vivienne Clark at ofa@fettes.com. To facilitate the organisation of regional events there are now some Regional Groups on the Fettes Community Portal, www.fettescommunity.org with more Regional Groups going live in 2021/2022. We will continue with some of the virtual events too, noting that many OFs around the world have enjoyed taking the opportunity to engage with Fettes events from home. We very much look forward to seeing you all soon whether in person or via a screen.

It is rewarding to stay connected.

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

OF REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ARGENTINA Sean Cameron (Mo 1978–1982) seandcameron112@gmail.com +54 9 2262 40 9044

CHILE Donald Filshill (CE 1949–1952) dmfilshill@gmail.com +56 9 9325 6438

ENGLAND (NORTH EAST) Alastair Ross (JS-Gl 1981–1990) alastairross33@hotmail.com +44(0)7789 247912

AUSTRALIA (VICTORIA) David Davidson (Inv-Ki 1961–1965) ddavidson1@optusnet.com.au +61 417 552 757

EAST AFRICA Alexis Sarikas (Mo 1978–1982) flexnbi@hotmail.com +254 722 380290

ENGLAND (NORTH WEST) Norman Rowbotham (Ca 1963–1968) normanrowbotham@aol.com +44(0)7747 141666

BRAZIL Colin Pritchard (CW 1954–1958) colinpri.alp@terra.com.br +55 11 4191–1163

ENGLAND (LONDON) James Macpherson (Gl 1997–2002) jfsmacpherson@hotmail.com +44(0)7929 233772

ENGLAND (SOUTH WEST) Nigel Shepherd (Mo 1975–1979) shepherd947@btinternet.com +44(0)7581 008128

CANADA (WESTERN) Nigel Grant (Ca 1949–1952) pngrant35@shaw.ca +60 4 922 0059

ENGLAND (LONDON) David Simpson (Mo 2001–2006) davidmoodysimpson@icloud.com

ENGLAND (YORKSHIRE) Dariel Pitt (Ar 1982–1984) dariel@hotmail.co.uk +44(0)7890 155969

CHANNEL ISLANDS Jeffrey Giovannoni (Ki 1989–1994) jeffreygiovannoni@voisinlaw.com +44(0)1534 500300

ENGLAND (LONDON) Urosh Teodorovich (Inv-Ki 2001–2008) u.teodorovich@gmail.com +44(0)7985 178823

FRANCE Neil Robertson (JS-Mo 1973–1980) neil.robertson@orange.fr +33 6 80 03 83 03

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

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GERMANY Berthold Nicklas Lange (Ca 2008–2010) bnlange4@gmail.com +49 170 4002140

JAPAN Shizuka Harada (Inv-CW 1993–2000) shizy999@gmail.com +81 90 1849 2110

SCOTLAND (ORKNEY) Barbara Graham (Gl 1975–1977) bjmgraham@gmail.com +44(0)7710 404892

HONG KONG Alice Stevenson (Ar 2006–2011) alice.stevenson@hkland.com +852 9337 2339

MIDDLE EAST Luke Daly (Ca 2001–2006) luke@moosa-daly.com +971 506132681

SOUTH AFRICA Stephen Fish (SH 1980–1981) fishman@iafrica.com +27 83 253 3766

INDIA Duncan Watkinson (Ca 1961–1965) dpwatkinson@gmail.com +91 81055 22555

NEW ZEALAND James Purves (SH 1980–1985) jamespurves@mac.com +64 21 274 1850

SWITZERLAND Christopher Milne (SH 1974–1979) christopher@camilne.com +41 77 513 56 68

NORTHERN IRELAND Jason Johnston (Gl 1988–1993) jason.johnston496@gmail.com +44(0)7971 206972

SINGAPORE & MALAYSIA Rosie Thompson (SH 1984–1986) rosiethompson68@gmail.com +65 9477 4725

SWITZERLAND Norval Gough (Ar 1976–1980) norval@perso.ch +41 76 522 2625

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND David Baxter (Mo 1983–1988) drbaxter1970@gmail.com

SCOTLAND (GLASGOW) Andrew Pickles (Ca 1962–1967) andrew@andrewpickles.co.uk

USA Davidson Gordon (Gl 1957–1962) dtg629@aol.com +1 914–967–7512

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

OF NEWS

OF News 1940s George Preston (SH-CW 1944–1950, Staff 1955–1991) was visited on the occasion of his 90th birthday by College Archivist, Craig Marshall, by OF Coordinator Vivienne Clark and

by Fettes Community Engagement Manager, Karen Jones.

David Horne (Gl 1945–1950) writes: “From mid February to the end of April this year I was slightly busy as I tried to complete my charity target of walking 100 miles on behalf of Alzheimers Research UK. My target date was the end of April and I am delighted to say that I completed my target of walking (or rather dawdling) 100 miles and raised money for what I believe is a really worthwhile cause.

“Not a really challenging target for someone who is young and fit but, I can assure everyone, something which I was not certain I could achieve as the paralysis of my arms, body and above all legs ten years ago has certainly affected me. Indeed, I thought at the beginning of March that I would have to ask for more time.

However, I actually walked my 100 miles by earlyish April and thanks primarily to friends and relations and other contacts raised a satisfactory amount for an extremely deserving charity. Although the ’JustGiving’ page (www.justgiving.com/fundraising/

davidsalzheimersdawdle) is still open it seems that the average contribution is over £50 per head even including grandchildren – some of whom raided their piggy bank. Wonderful and beyond my expectations. The other big benefit is that I am definitely fitter and healthier even though I am well short of my physical condition in 2009 before my paralysis. Mind you I have vowed never again to set myself a target of walking 100 miles.

“What I have now realised is that one should never be depressed by the better athleticism and/or academic ability of one’s contemporaries at school. Everyone has ability and can succeed even if it is late in life before appearing. To me it is most important that one should be able to look back over the years and realise that by and large life has been fun and relatively successful and that one has fulfilled one’s own and others’ expectations.

My parents, had they been alive, I think would have felt that I had achieved as much or maybe more than they expected. I must say that I have also been very fortunate to have been lucky – which does help – but when it comes down to it, nothing beats a first-class education and upbringing and the support of one’s family and relations – plus maybe a cold shower or a cold bath every morning at

Craig Marshall, Vivienne Clark, Karen Jones and George Preston

school! My target now is to reach the memorable age of 90 in March 2022.

I can then start my next Five-Year Plan.”

Colin G Macdonald (CW 1948– 1953, Staff 1956–1960) writes: “I was recently awarded the position of Honorary Commonwealth VicePresident of the Royal Lifesaving Society, in recognition of the work I had done for drowning prevention in Lesotho.

“When I retired from my post as a school Principal in 2010 I was also President of the Royal Lesotho Lifesaving Association, so this became my excuse for avoiding these freezing Scottish winters. It also allowed me to remain in touch with the OF community in South Africa. Realising that none of us are immortal, I had found an ideal person to take over the Presidency while I stepped down to Vice-President, but he died of Covid-19 at the end of last year, so I have resumed the reigns again from 6,000 miles away. I hope I shall be able to get back there later this year.”

OF News 1950s Lt Colonel Grenville Johnston (Mo 1958–1963) has been made a Companion of The Memorial of Merit of King Charles the Martyr in recognition of his work for the Anglican Church.

David Horne

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

Bobby Stewart’s growing family

Anthony Cleary (né Beardmore) (CW 1959–1964) writes: “Having passed That Really Big Birthday, I am no longer a sitting judge. I qualified as a Solicitor in 1971, was appointed to the bench first as a Deputy District Judge in 1984, then a full timer in 1986, thence to Circuit Judge in 2006 and Deputy High Court Judge in 2011. Fell off the perch in January this year, and now appointed to the Parole Board as a judicial member. It must be the Fettes air which prevents me from sitting still.”

OF News 1960s Neil Jackson (Gl 1965–1969) retired from the University of Liverpool in 2020 and is now a Professor Emeritus of Architecture. This autumn he will also be standing down at the end of his four-year term as President of the Society of Architectural Historians of Great Britain. In 2020 and 2021 he spoke to students in the Lower Sixth at Fettes about a career in Architecture.

From this year, he will be promoting the David Bryce Architecture Award for OFs studying at university for their undergraduate degree in Architecture (RIBA Part 1).

OF News 1970s Alastair Shepherd (Mo 1973–1977) has been appointed as the new custodian of the Scottish Barony Register, effective 1st December 2020.

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Christopher McCorkell

Alastair retired from private practice in April 2021 after 40 years as a solicitor with Brodies, Henderson and Jackson WS and Coulters. Since qualifying in 1981, he has been involved in the sale and purchase of barony titles. He is also a writer to the Signet and notary public. We spoke to Alastair shortly after the announcement was made: “I do not recall Custodian of the Barony Register being one of the jobs mentioned in Careers Guidance, but I am looking forward to taking on the role. Sir William Fettes, as well as being a Baronet, almost certainly also owned a number of Baronies, and I will look out for his signature in any that I am asked to register.”

Andrew Lownie’s (Mo 1974–1979) new book will be published in August: Traitor King: The Duke and Duchess of Windsor in Exile.

OF News 1980s Ali Lawrence (née Bryce) (Ca 1979– 1981) let us know that she is no longer teaching but has begun a new venture opening a home and lifestyle shop.

OF News 2000s Jennifer Allison (Inv-CW 1994–2002) writes: “Having left Fettes in 2002 I completed a BSc Hons in Anatomy and Physiology before going on to study medicine. I enjoyed my Foundation training in Dundee/Perth before undertaking my Obstetrics &

Gynaecology training in Edinburgh.

As of August 2020, I am now a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with a specialist interest in Maternal & Fetal medicine at the Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy.

During this time, I have been back to the Fettes lacrosse pitches many times to play lacrosse and am currently Head Coach of the Scotland Senior Women’s Development Team.”

Bobby Stewart (Ki 2000–2005) and his wife, Camilla, have recently had twins. Jasper and Hamish were born at the end of April, joining Angus (3½) and Honor (2). Bobby is an Army Reservist and was mobilised as part of the Covid Support Force in 2020. He led one of the military planning teams that planned and coordinated military support across South East England.

This included the delivery of 105,000 Covid tests. Bobby is now back working as a Management Consultant.

Alistair Paul (Ki 2000–2005) is engaged to marry Kate Badenoch. Ali and Kate will be getting married in London in Spring 2022.

Christopher McCorkell (Mo 1999–2006) had a small Covid wedding last year. He married Gemma Hogg on 14th November 2020 in St Salvator’s Chapel, University of St Andrews.

They were married by The Rev. Neil Gardner, the Minister of Canongate Kirk and former Governor of Fettes.

Gemma is a doctor and started her

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medical degree at St Andrews. She was redeployed to Intensive Care, in London, for nine months during the Covid-19 pandemic. Christopher has been elected to The Queen’s Body Guard for Scotland, The Royal Company of Archers. If there are any other OFs in the Royal Company, do contact him: cdw.mccorkell@gmail.com Matilda Ruffle (Inv-CW 2000– 2006) has returned to Scotland (via Oxford, Tokyo and London), to renovate and open Killiecrankie House, a restaurant and rooms in Highland Perthshire, with her fiancé. She writes: “There aren’t many upsides to Covid, but it’s certainly responsible for spurring on our decision to leave London and do something we had always planned to do but had never got round to. As the Grand Designs story goes, we encountered many more issues in the restoration of the old

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

hotel building than we had envisaged, and doing that on top of setting up a new business and organising a wedding isn’t for the faint-hearted.

However, we’re incredibly excited to finally be welcoming guests from September 24th. The idea is that guests will stay for one night and enjoy our narrative-driven tasting menu that explores the cultural food stories of Scotland. We’ve focused on finding a different way to celebrate Scottish cuisine, in a way that people haven’t experienced before. We hope to welcome any OFs passing through the area!” You can book to eat and stay via www.killiecrankiehouse.com or follow them on Instagram @killiecrankiehouse In May 2021, Douglas Reid (Gl 2001–2006) graduated with a Master of Divinity from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville,

Kentucky. Douglas and his family are moving to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE where Douglas has just accepted a position as the Associate Pastor of Ras Al Khaimah Evangelical Church, rakchurch.com. They have loved Louisville and are sad to leave but as a family they are excited about this next adventure. Douglas would love to hear from you if you are in the UAE. Alexander Oldroyd (Gl 2004– 2006) completed his PhD at the University of Manchester in January 2021. He took time out of his PhD in April 2020 when he was redeployed into general medicine at Salford Royal Hospital due to the pandemic.

He continues to do research and clinical work as an Academic Clinical Lecturer, funded by a fellowship from The Myositis Association. He can be contacted via alexander.oldroyd@ manchester.ac.uk

Matilda Ruffle’s Killiecrankie House

Will Shaw’s daughter, Maya

Douglas Reid

Katherine Douglas

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Urosh Teodorovich

Elizabeth Macneal

Will Shaw (Inv-Ca 1999–2007) writes: “This is Maya Elizabeth Shaw, born August 17th 2020 in New York City. It’s been a bizarre experience going through pregnancy and bringing a child into this world during covid but she has been a real light in these dark times. Hoping to bring her back to the UK soon for a tour of Dad’s homeland and to meet the grandparents. This picture is Maya at six weeks old.”

Katherine Douglas (Inv-CW 2000– 2007) was absolutely thrilled to be selected to represent Team GB Rowing in the Women’s Eight at the Tokyo Olympics. We spoke to Katherine about this amazing achievement: “It is surreal because I was selected in March 2020 and was reselected for 2021 – being selected twice for one Olympics is quite special.”

Elizabeth Macneal (Inv-CW 2000–2007) writes: “My second novel, Circus of Wonders, was published in the UK in May 2021, and became an instant Sunday Times bestseller. The Guardian described it as ‘glittering’

Rosha Fitzhowle

Lisa McNicol

and a work of ‘subtlety and originality.’

Set in Victorian London, it is about a girl who is kidnapped by a travelling circus, and who must find her way in this dark and spectacular world. I have many fond memories of writing short stories in the classes of my old English teachers such as Mrs Thompson, Mr McKee, Mr Cheetham, Ms Donald and Mr Harrison, all of whom helped build my love of reading and books.”

Urosh Teodorovich (Inv-Ki 2001–2008) and Venetia Sheppard are pleased to announce their engagement in Montenegro on 17th September 2020. A winter wedding is planned in London in late 2021.

In December 2020, Rosha Fitzhowle (Ar 2005–2009) was a finalist in the most prestigious national opera singer competition in Germany, the 49th Bundeswettbewerb Gesang für Oper/Operette/Konzert.

I married my sweetheart Jessie Brown.

I was also awarded a doctorate degree in Planetary Sciences and Astronomy from the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory in Tucson, Arizona, where I have been studying the interiors of ocean-bearing icy moons since 2014. I am now living in Pasadena, California, where I am continuing my planetary science research at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory as a postdoctoral fellow and an affiliate of the upcoming Europa Clipper spacecraft mission. Jessie and I are expecting our first child in October!”

Lisa McNicol (Ar 2005–2010) writes: “On 8th April 2021 I married my handsome American husband, Adrian Richardson, in Beverly Hills, California.

We live in Oakland, California (I’ve been living in the SF Bay Area for almost six years now) and we work in the Health and Wellness industry.

My husband is the Senior Content Strategist for Fitbit (now under Google) and together we run our own health and wellness online business called

OF News 2010s Hamish Hay (Inv-Ki 2004–2010) writes: “At the beginning of last year,

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Jake Wightman

We Strive Well. Although our family and friends couldn’t travel and we couldn’t have any kind of party, we didn’t let that stop us from getting married during the pandemic. We drove down to Southern California for the weekend and eloped with just an officiant and a witness. I thought wedding news might cheer people up at a time like this.”

Dominique McNeil (Inv-Ar 2005–2011) is delighted to announce her wedding to Robert John Yewdall on 17th May 2021.

Jake Wightman (Gl 2008–2012) has been progressing further in the field of athletics. In August 2020, Jake broke the Scottish record for 1500 metres at the 2020 Diamond League in Monaco with a time of 3:29.47, quicker than Steve Cram, Sebastian Coe or Steve Ovett. He was awarded British male athlete of the year by the readers of Athletics Weekly and at the end of May 2021, Jake was Captain of British Athletics at the Euro Athletics Team Championships.

Jake has been selected to represent Great Britain in Tokyo at the Summer Olympic Games. He noted “Representing your country at the

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

Hugh Dingwall

Olympic Games is the highest honour you can receive in my sport”.

Hugh Dingwall (Mo 2009–2014) held the official title of Ensign for Her Majesty The Queen’s Birthday Parade held on Saturday 12th June. The Scots Guards trooped their colour in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen in the Quadrangle of Windsor Castle.

We contacted Hugh to get his thoughts: “I felt proud and honoured to be Ensign for this year’s Queen’s Birthday Parade. The 2nd Battalion Scots Guards have not trooped their colour since 1997.”

Felicity Herdman (CW 2013–2015) started pupillage barrister training on 14 December 2020 at Amicus Chambers, Middlesbrough, to be completed in December 2021. In addition, she was called to the Bar of England and Wales on 25 March 2021 as noted in The Times, Hilary Call.

Siobhán Shaw (Da 2013–2015) writes: “I left Fettes and went off to Australia to do a Bachelor of Science at the University of Sydney. I ended up majoring in Neuroscience and loved it.

I was then invited to join their honours program (this is basically a Masters year which you do after completing your

undergraduate degree and you work on one research project year round).

“I was fortunate to do my honours under the supervision of Professor Muireann Irish and Dr Alexis Whitton looking at the prevalence and nature of Anhedonia in frontotemporal dementia.

I loved this year and learnt so much about research. After finishing my thesis and getting first class honours, my supervisor asked if I would stay on and continue working on the project and of course I am delighted to say that we’ve just published the paper in Brain: academic.oup.com/brain/ advance-article/doi/10.1093/brain/ awab032/6214168” Georgina McKenzie Smith (Ar 2011–2016) was shortlisted for Young Journalist of the Year at the PPA Scottish Magazine Awards 2020. This is a wonderful achievement so early in her journalism career. During her time at Fettes, Georgina won many prizes including the Governor’s Prize for English in her final year. We spoke to Georgina shortly after her nomination was announced: “I was absolutely delighted to find out I had been shortlisted for the award – and very surprised! The other

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Georgina McKenzie Smith

Harry Paterson

Katy Dalglish

Tom Banatvala

nominees are all amazing journalists, with very impressive by-lines under their belts so I’m flattered to be in such good company.

“After attending the University of St Andrews for a year after school, I traded up uni for a job in London and it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I then moved to work at DC Thomson last year, starting off on teen magazine Shout (the modern iteration of Jackie magazine) which was such a fun job, and a brilliant foot in the door of the world of journalism. I started on the Scots Magazine at the very start of lockdown and I have loved writing more long reads – and interviewing some brilliant people such as eminent journalist and reporter Jackie Bird, and Liz Lochhead, one of my favourite poets.”

Katy Dalglish (CE 2012–2017) has been appointed as Athletic Union President 2021/22 at the University of Exeter. The campaign took place under several Covid restrictions, so it is an even greater achievement for Katy given the difficult circumstances.

On 5th June 2021, Harry Paterson (PS-Gl 2011–2019) made his professional debut for Edinburgh

Rugby in their match against Ulster Rugby.

In addition, both Harry and Tom Banatvala (Gl 2015–2020) have been selected for the Scotland U20 rugby team for the Six Nations. Tom was in the starting XV as Loosehead Prop for the match against France U20s on Wednesday 7th July 2021.

OF News 2020s Sophie Hughson (PS-Da 2012–2020) gained an Oxford Blue for Hockey on Saturday 16th May 2021, playing in the winning Oxford University Team against Cambridge in the Varsity match.

Former Staff News The Revd Dr David Weekes (Staff 1974–1994) continues to write from his home in Fife. Having completed a PhD in John Buchan, he has recently published a book about his younger brother Alistair who was killed in the first world war. Copies of John Buchan’s Kid Brother: Alistair Buchan can be obtained from Amazon or directly from the author.

Sophie Hughson

To keep up to date with news from your fellow OFs, join the Fettes Community Portal (www.fettescommunity.org) or follow us on Twitter @OldFettesians and @fettescommunity

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OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

PANDEMIC HERO Roshni Best This past year has been a tough one, with lockdowns and strict guidelines in force in the UK and across the world.

As life was affected in so many ways, we know members of the Fettes community stepped up to go above and beyond to help others during this pandemic. One such person is Roshni Best (Inv-CW 2001–2008). The amazing work of Roshni was brought to our attention by Urosh Teodorovich (Inv-Ki 2001–2008) who nominated her for recognition: “One of my oldest friends, Roshni Best (CW 2001–2008), has been heavily involved in the NHS’s vaccine rollout and I feel her story is worth sharing.

“Roshni left her job in strategy consulting and volunteered at the start of the pandemic to support the NHS with pro bono consulting services. She joined as Lead Analyst on NHS England’s Flu Programme and created a model to estimate the number of people eligible for flu vaccination based on former Health Secretary Matt Hancock’s proposal for all over 50s in England to be vaccinated. Roshni’s efforts and exact figures were quoted in front page news in July 2020.

“She carried this experience into becoming the first analyst in NHS England’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme. In this capacity, Roshni was in charge of estimating the number of people in England who would need to be vaccinated as part of each JCVI (Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation) cohort, and the number of staff, venues, and materials it would take to deliver the programme as quickly as possible.

In fact, the Prime Minister’s announcement that 12.3 million people in England would be vaccinated by 15th February (equivalent to 15 million across the entire UK) came directly from Roshni’s work.

“Now that the programme is live, Roshni monitors uptake across the population and helps publish daily, weekly, and monthly statistics on the number of people who have been vaccinated across different areas, age-groups, riskcategories, ethnicities, and levels of deprivation. This data informs decisions on where vaccine supply is sent, and areas that need to be prioritised.

“Roshni has spoken to me at length about how rewarding this work has been – especially knowing that she has contributed to what has been such a successful vaccination programme. Over 30 million people have been vaccinated in England since early December with Public Health England recently estimating that this has saved over 6,000 lives.”

found my profile.

It was a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact and use my skill set in a more meaningful way.

What has it been like working within the NHS during this time?

It has been very intense but really rewarding! One of the strangest things has been that I have never met any of my colleagues in person – I started the role during the first lockdown and have been working from home since then.

Hopefully I can meet the rest of my team soon, now that things are opening up.

Did you feel any pressure in the role? If so, what was the pressure and how did you handle it?

Yes, the pressure has been huge! I need to provide the numbers to support critical decisions in the vaccination programme which often come up last minute and have tight deadlines. Sometimes you can get stuck in the details, panicking about urgent issues like ‘How do we estimate the number of Unpaid Carers in England, before the Secretary of State makes an announcement in two hours?’ In those moments, you have to take a step back and remember that the programme as a whole has been an incredible success, and that the problems we are solving are often complicated, so not having an accurate answer immediately is not the end of the world.

We got in touch with Roshni to ask for her perspective:

How does it feel knowing you have contributed in such a positive way at a difficult time?

Given that I’m not at the front line – it sometimes is hard to recognise that I have personally made an impact on the vaccine programme and the COVID response, but I still feel really proud when I see numbers I have helped to pull together mentioned in the news. I’m about to get my first dose this weekend – and I’m sure it will be emotional to actually go through the vaccination process that I helped to design over a year ago. I still remember our early pilot programmes – where we timed how long it would take a volunteer to get a syringe from a freezer and then inject saline into an orange! It’s pretty incredible to see how far we’ve come since then.

Why did you first volunteer to support the NHS at the start of the pandemic?

I had recently left my job in strategy consulting and was looking for new career opportunities, which was challenging at a time when very few people were hiring! I sent my details and CV to a charity who were looking for volunteers to help with the crisis and a senior manager from NHS England

Do you have long term plans to continue being involved in the NHS? I’m currently working on strategic planning for the COVID vaccine booster programme which could start from September. I’m still trying to work out what I will do once the vaccine programme becomes more ‘business as usual’ and requires less modelling support – we’ll see!

Pemburys are proud to be an Advertising Partner in this special edition of the Old Fettesian Newsletter celebrating the 150th Anniversary of Fettes College

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CARRY ON Remembering 100 years of Carrying On 1921–2021

As purveyors of fine militaria and accoutrements, Pemburys have created a stunning and incredibly detailed Desk Piece of the Fettes College War Memorial. A most iconic statue inspired by Birnie Rhind, unveiled in October 1921 in the College grounds one hundred years ago this year.

The statue features Lieutenant Donald Mackintosh (Mo 1911–1913) of the Seaforth Highlanders who was killed in action 11 April 1917. He was a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces in the face of the enemy.

The Desk Piece is cast in one kilo of patinated bronze and measures 18 cm wide by 24 cm high. Carry On is set upon on a black lacquered plinth as a constant reminder of the values upheld by the College over its 150 years.

A special edition of ten pieces will be cast in sterling silver and will feature the Edinburgh City Assay Mark with the date letter W for 2021.

For further information visit pemburysfinearts.com/fettes or contact Gary Barnshaw of Pemburys on +44 (0)7921 161 654

SADLY DEPARTED

We would like to thank family members, friends and colleagues who have notified us of the deaths of Old Fettesians and other Friends of Fettes listed in this edition of the Newsletter. This list includes news of deaths that we have been made aware of up until 18th June 2021. If you know of any omissions, please do let us know by emailing ofa@fettes.com or calling +44 (0)131 311 6741.

Throughout the year when we are notified of a death, we update the following page on our website: www.fettes.com/familyforlife/ alumni/sadly-departed

The laurel wreath laid at the bust of Sir William Fettes to commemorate Old Fettesians who are no longer with us.

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

1930s

WILLIAM L GEDDES (Mo 1937–1942) William L Geddes passed away on 4th November 2020, aged 96.

William attended Fettes from 1937 to 1942 as part of Moredun House after his brother Thomas Geddes (Mo 1931–1936) (Deceased). During his time at Fettes College, he was Head of House, boxing captain and took part in many other sports and activities. He would also apparently turn the tap at the end of the showers and it would make all the other showers cold. Right up until his last few weeks he spoke of his time at Fettes and noted having wonderful and happy memories. In his spare time, he did ice skating, horse riding, shooting and rugga (as he used to call it). He will be greatly missed by his loved ones.

1940s

PAUL H C CROXFORD (Mo 1941–1943) Paul H C Croxford passed away on 20th February 2019, aged 94.

Paul was a House Prefect, he played in the 1st XI cricket team and was captain of boxing, he was also in the music club.

The following was published in The Telegraph: Paul Harold Clifton, XII Royal Lancers 1944–1949, died peacefully in hospital on 20th February aged 94. Brother of Pat, Richard and Peter, “Gramps” will be sadly missed by his close family – daughter Sally Ann, grand children Gilly, Robyn, Karen and great grandchild Savanna with whom he had been living or in close contact until recently. They bravely sustained a link with their former life in Kenya and Zimbabwe which they regretfully had to leave and helped him to resettle in England.

CHRISTOPHER C BRENT-SMITH (SH 1942–1947) Christopher C Brent-Smith passed away on 22nd June 2020, aged 91.

At Fettes Christopher was in the Army Training Corps, he was a House Prefect and assistant librarian. After Fettes he served in the Army from 1947–1949 before studying Modern Languages at Worcester College, Oxford where he was also tennis captain. Christopher had a successful career as a farmer with Day’s Cottage Apple Juice in Gloucestershire.

WILLIAM (STEWART) DALGLEISH (Ca 1942–1947) William (Stewart) Dalgleish passed away on 13th January 2021, aged 91.

After one year at Fettes, Stewart was joined by his brother Kenneth James Dalgleish (Ca 1943–1950) (Deceased). Stewart was Head of House, and played for the XV before leaving to do his National Service.

The following was written by his wife, Felicity: Stewart was born in Edinburgh in 1929. His father worked for the Burma Oil Co. in Burma. Stewart initially boarded at the The Grange Home School, an Edinburgh boarding school for young children whose parents lived and worked overseas from the age of five, before going to Cargilfield at the age of

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eight. He moved on to Fettes in 1942 and was soon followed by his brother Kenneth James Dalgleish.

He was a meteorologist on the Aircraft Carrier HMS Triumph and when in port in Malta he worked at decoding in Lord Mountbatten’s Office. In 1953 he got his Bachelor of Arts from St Catherine’s College, Cambridge University.

He was a Member of Cambridge University LX Club. After Cambridge he was employed by Patons & Baldwins. He kept up with his sport and was in the winning team of the Blarney Stone Seven a Sides “A” competition in 1958 at the Hong Kong Rugby Football Club. He was then employed

by Northern Assurance Co., London as Manager Far East.

Stewart lived in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

He also visited Thailand, Japan, Philippines & Indonesia for work. In 1965 he married Felicity Gardner of Benalla, Australia. Together they had three daughters and now four grandchildren. In 1969 he migrated to Australia, and continued to work in Insurance, firstly in Sydney and then in Melbourne.

He was a member of many clubs and golf clubs worldwide, including the Hong Kong Golf Club and the Wimbledon Golf Club. He was a member of the Royal Melbourne Golf Club for 50 years. He was the winner of the 1991 Centenary 3 course Competition C Division. He was a member of the Edinburgh Wanderers, the Singapore Cricket Club and the London Scottish.

WILLIAM (BILL) D STEWART (Gl 1942–1944) William (Bill) D Stewart passed away on 21st August 2020, aged 92.

Bill had two brothers, Professor Ian G Stewart (Gl 1937–1941) and Tom H Stewart (Gl 1950–1954).

The following was published in the Linlithgow Journal and Gazette: Peacefully, at Linlithgow Care Home, on Friday, August 21, 2020, William David Stewart (Bill), aged 92 years and formerly of Bo’ness, much loved and loving husband of the late Aileen, father of Susan, Barbara and Marion, father-inlaw of John and Drew, grandpa to Christine, Ian, Robert and Jack and great-grandpa to Madison and Harper.

GORDON JAMES (JIM) BUXTON (Gl 1943–1947) Gordon James (Jim) Buxton passed away on 14th October 2019, aged 90.

Jim went into the RAF after Fettes, moving to BOAC in later life.

The following was published in The Telegraph: Capt Gordon James (Jim) passed away peacefully at Bridge House, Twyford. A Funeral Service was held at Reading Crematorium on Wednesday 11th December.

SURGEON CAPTAIN ALEXANDER (SANDY) FRASER DAVIDSON OBE RN (Mo 1944–1947) Surgeon Captain Alexander (Sandy) Fraser Davidson OBE RN passed away on 2nd May 2021, aged 90.

He was at Fettes with his brother, John S Davidson (Mo 1946–1947) (Deceased). Later his own sons went to Fettes, Alec F Davidson (Mo 1970–1974) (Deceased), Thomas M Davidson (Mo 1970–1975) (Deceased), and Ian R Davidson (Mo 1973–1976).

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The following was written by Alistair Reid (Mo 1970–1975): Sandy was educated at Fettes College Edinburgh where he achieved top exam results. Sport was a big part of his life there, and he represented the school in many interschool swimming galas, going on to win the highly coveted Anderson cup which was presented to the best all round swimmer in the school.

He was so proud when the same cup was awarded to Alec, his son 27 years later. He would later represent his university in a similar fashion.

He was interested in sailing, holding a RYA yacht master offshore certificate, was a British Canoe Union coach and won the Royal Navy slalom championship two years running.

He also enjoyed archery and golf.

He joined the Royal Navy as a Surgeon Lieutenant in March 1954 and served primarily in the fields of aviation medicine and occupational medicine on ships as well as air stations. He qualified as a naval pilot in 1956 and as a US navy flight surgeon in 1957. He was a Royal Navy ships diver in 1969 and he also completed the Royal Navy underwater medical course.

While on staff at the institute of aviation medicine he was involved in the planning of and participation in trials, techniques and equipment for underwater escape from aircraft for which he was awarded an OBE in 1967. He was also involved in the testing of life jackets and other aircrew equipment and in aircraft accident investigation. He had experience as a member of several boards of enquiry into aircraft, diving and general service accidents. In his last four years of service, he was responsible for the maintenance and improvement of medical standards in all air stations in Naval Air Command.

He left the Royal Navy in 1983 with the rank of Surgeon Captain after 29 years’ service.

He attended a Fettes College reunion well into his retirement where he took his son Tom’s widow, Sandra, as Elspeth (his wife) could not attend. He cheerfully referred to her as Mrs Davidson throughout the evening (which of course she was) not letting on to his peers that she was his daughter-in-law not his extremely young wife, much to Sandra’s horror! She soon put the story right!

In June 2017 he flew a Spitfire for his 87th birthday during which he took the controls and did a barrel roll.

His wife, Elspeth Davidson, passed away also at Rowan Lodge Nursing Home on 29 April 2020. He leaves behind his son Ian (Mo 1973–1976) and two daughters Ann and May, having been predeceased by his sons Alec (Mo 1970–1974) and Tom (Mo 1970–1975). He is also succeeded by five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. His sons are all Old Fettesians.

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

PATRICK I BARTY (Ca 1945–1950) Patrick I Barty passed away on 12th December 2020, aged 88.

At Fettes Patrick was a School Prefect and in the XV. He was part of a multi-generational Fettes family including his brother T J Russel Barty (Ca 1935–1940) (Deceased), cousins Miranda Barty-Taylor (Inv-CE 1998–2005) and Jerome Barty-Taylor (Inv-Ki 2000–2005) and his grandchildren Alex Gale (Ca 2007–2012), Ruaridh Gale (Ca 2009–2014) and India Gale (PS-Ar 2009–2020).

The following was published in The Telegraph: Patrick died suddenly on 12th December 2020, at the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, after a short illness. Devoted husband of the late Mary, adored father of Sarah, Caroline and Rosemary, and loving grandfather to Alexander, Ruaridh, India, Ysobel, Arthur and Florence.

DAVID SAIRE (NÉ SALAMON) (SH-Ki 1945–1950) David Saire (Né Salamon) passed away on 5th January 2021, aged 89.

At Fettes David was a House Prefect, in the music club and he competed in athletics. David’s brother Michael Salamon (SH-Ki 1944–1948) (Deceased) was also at Fettes.

The following was written by his daughter Jaspa Saire and published in The Guardian: My father, David Saire, who has died aged 89, was an actor and director whose work included The Andromeda Breakthrough (1962), Mickey Dunne (1967) and BBC SundayNight Theatre (1950).

David played a leading role in the Arnold Wesker Trilogy at the Royal Court theatre (1960) and, in 1955, was in Orson Welles’s Moby Dick at the Duke of York’s. When he went for the audition Welles asked him, “Do you play the guitar?”

When David said he didn’t, Welles said, “You look like you should play the guitar”, so David was sent to the London Guitar School run by Len Williams (father of classical guitarist, John Williams), where he learned the only tune he ever played.

David’s work included several Shakespeare productions, in which he shared the stage with, among others, Rosemary Harris and Wendy Hiller. He then moved on to television and films, starring in Greengage Summer (1961) alongside Kenneth More and Susannah York.

After working as a director behind the camera with the BBC (around 1965–1968), he did freelance work for various film production companies, including Natural Breaks, Jennie and Co. and Sierra Productions, as well as advertising agencies. With most of his work coming from Amsterdam, in 1977 David decided to move to the city, setting up a film production company called Images. He lived in New York for a while then moved back to Amsterdam, where he continued to direct and also became a voice artist, returning to his love of acting.

Born in Lowestoft in Suffolk, David attended Fettes College in Edinburgh. He studied drama at the Sorbonne in Paris, before following his dream to London to become an actor. He met Jacqueline Chan in a coffee bar in the city in the late 1950s, and they married in 1962. The couple had two daughters and 15 memorable years together. They separated in 1979 and divorced in 1989.

David was a man of many talents with a great eye for beauty, and anyone who crossed his path found his natural

OLD FETTESIAN NEWSLETTER NO. 66, JULY 2021

charm irresistible. He is survived by his daughters, Abigail and me, and his grandchildren, Jeffrey and Garance.

ROBIN FAIRLIE (CE 1945–1951) Robin Fairlie passed away on 26th November 2020, aged 87.

Robin, like his uncle James C Fairlie (SH 1895–1901) (Deceased), came to Fettes as a Foundation Scholar. He was academic and got a Classics Exhibition to Jesus College, Cambridge.

The following was written by Robin’s wife, Judith Fairlie: Robin was born in Dumfries on 7th March 1933, where his father, Robert, was a Minister of the Church of Scotland.

He attended Fettes College from 1945–1951. From Fettes he gained an Exhibition to Jesus College, Cambridge but completed his National Service (commissioned in the King’s Own Scottish Borderers) before university. During his time there he was Chairman of the Labour Club (1955) and also on the Committee of the Cambridge Union Society. He graduated in 1957 (History) and took his MA in 1987.

Whilst considering employment options, he began a massive piece of work for his own amusement – he researched and mapped out by hand the interconnected family trees of the Royal Houses of Europe. The planning and execution so impressed a friend, he commented – ‘you should go into computers!’. Robin soon after began his career in computers, joining Remington Rand in the very early days of computerisation in the business world. He married his first wife Susan soon after coming down and they had two children Joanna and Robert.

He later joined Reader’s Digest and set up computer systems across the company, designing the UK’s and probably the world’s first real marketing database. In 1980, looking for new challenges he moved to one of Britain’s largest library suppliers, Woolston and Blunts, as Director and CEO. Susan died in 1981.

In 1983 he married Judith after returning to London and they lived in Islington. He was appointed Chief Executive of the newly formed Direct Mail Services Standards Board (DMSSB), set up to monitor and improve industry standards.

Throughout his life he employed his considerable intellect as a communicator and analyst and enabled organisations and people to work with purpose and clarity. Hence, he was called on to write many constitutions and provided such bodies as the Direct Marketing Association with a firm foundation. In 1987 he set up his own consultancy business.

His clients included national charities, publishers, Royal Mail and many marketing companies. Before his retirement he was Editor of the Journal of Direct Marketing for the Institute of Direct Marketing (IDM), and as a passionate educator contributed to establishing the IDM’s educational and professional programmes. His major book on Direct Marketing and Database Mail was published in 1990.

After moving back to Highgate in 1996, he was very active in the Highgate Society and served as Chairman from 2003 to 2006. On trips and holidays, he and Judith visited over 350 churches and transcribed a large number of verse epitaphs. He particularly delighted in those prior to the Victorian period. These he put together with descriptions of the churches and biographical details of the epitaphees and their writers. Together they spent many holidays in the Highlands and the Western Isles and the South of France.

Further afield in Greece and Sicily, he revisited Ancient

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Greek culture and archaeology which was so much part of his years at Fettes. He is survived by Judith, three stepsons, his two children, seven grandchildren and a great grandchild and is very much missed.

DON A RING (Mo 1946–1950) Don A Ring passed away on 8th July 2020, aged 87.

At Fettes he was a House Prefect and in the music club.

His brother, Bernard G Ring (Mo 1952–1956) was also at Fettes.

The following memories are from his eulogy read at his funeral held at St Breaca, Breage, Helston, Cornwall: A basin of warm water was placed on a towel… and, one by one, us boys were put through it. On one occasion, my mother… called out to Donald “Perform!” meaning that he should get on with… washing and Donald, unabashed, proceeded to do the Highland Fling… to everyone’s amusement.

Dad has left a wonderful document of all our childhoods in films and photos. He was good at catching a snippet of time.

One of my fondest memories is of Dad reading us bedtime stories. We loved them!… The voices he used were fantastic and we were totally absorbed in the wonderful world he brought to life for us!

One of my fondest memories of my Grandpa was when we were children visiting him and Grandma he would take us to visit the cow… He would sit us on top of the gate and hold on to us tight. He always gave the tightest cuddles which made you feel so safe and loved. He’d then do the most cowlike moo and call them over to say hello. I always thought he was actually talking to them!

When it came to the time for us to leave, Grandpa, ever the gentleman, helped me on with my jacket. Try as I might, I just couldn’t get my arm through my sleeve. It was only when I looked back that I saw Grandpa was holding my sleeve closed, on purpose!

We were sitting on an outcrop of rock. Don let out a deep sigh, the sort you make when you are completely satisfied and at peace with the world. “This is perfect” he said, “The best spot in the world.”

DAVID DOUGLAS (DOUGALD) DICK (Ki 1946–1950) David Douglas (Dougald) Dick passed away on 27th May 2020, aged 87.

At Fettes Dougald was a House Prefect and in the shooting VIII. The following was written by his sister, Doreen: Dougald was born in Dundee where his father was the Minister at Clepington Parish Church. After a short spell in the Borders, the family moved to St Ninians, Stirling, where Dougald grew up, and was educated at Hurst Grange Preparatory School, before going to Fettes in 1946 as a Foundation Scholar. He enjoyed his four years there, where amongst other things, he represented the school in shooting,

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gained his lifelong love of playing squash, learning to play the bagpipes, and became a formidable Scottish country dancer! In 1950 he went up to St Andrews University, and gained an Honours degree in history and geography. National Service followed, with a three year commission with the RAF. Dougald was sent to Sri Lanka, where he developed a liking for colonial life. It was here that he met his wife, Joan, a nurse from Australia. Theirs was a very happy marriage of nearly 50 years.

After working in Calcutta, India with the Bengal Chamber of Commerce for a number of years, Dougald went to work in shipping, in Hong Kong, as the Chairman of an international shipping consortium, which meant he had considerable control over trade going in and out of Hong Kong, and indeed became known there as “Mr Shipping”! He retired in the late 1980s, and he and Joan lived quietly in Perth, Australia. Joan died in 2009.

Dougald never forgot the opportunities opened up for him by his education at Fettes, and often reminisced about his time there.

JOHN A GELDART (CE 1946–1948) John A Geldart passed away on 20th March 2020, aged 90.

At Fettes John was Head of House and tennis captain.

He went on to the Royal Technical College in Glasgow after Fettes and achieved his National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering. He became a General Manager at Anglo Motors and lived much of his life in Argentina. John regularly joined OF gatherings in Argentina.

THOMAS COLLIER (COLL) FINDLAY (Mo 1945–1950) Thomas Collier (Coll) Findlay passed away on 24th July 2020, aged 88.

At Fettes Coll was a House Prefect.

The following was published in The Herald: Thomas Collier (Coll) died peacefully, in the tender care of The Grove Care Home, Elgin, on 24th July 2020, in his 89th year. Coll was a much loved son, brother, nephew, cousin and friend. He had several homes over the years – Wolverhampton, Blanefield, Rogart, Tullibody and Eaglesfield.

DONALD MCNAB (Ki 1946–1951) Donald McNab passed away on 19th December 2020, aged 87.

The following was published on the Scottish Rugby website: For 17 years, McNab piloted the Friends of Scottish Rugby in their support of grassroots rugby in Scotland and to the Academy at London Scottish.

At a gala dinner graced by the Princess Royal and held in his honour in London, McNab was tickled that as he became the organisation’s honorary life president, five people were taking over the duties that he had delivered single-handedly.

Born in 1933 in Charlton, near Greenwich, McNab was educated at Fettes College and served as a second Lieutenant in the second Battalion, The Black Watch, during the Korean War. He became a Captain in the Royal Marines Volunteer Reserves in 1956 and had his own business intelligence

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service, while he always managed to change the subject if he was asked if he had been in the employ of the British Secret Service!

When he stepped down from Friends of Scottish Rugby, McNab thanked members writing “From the 34 junior Scottish rugby clubs and the London Scottish Academy; to donating funds to worthy causes which in themselves were not entirely rugby-orientated yet were deeply Scottish centred. From the Dunblane school massacre to the Solway Harvester fishing boat disaster; to Erskine Home for wounded Scottish soldiers, you happily made generous donations.”

McNab was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year and was not expected to survive beyond Christmas 2019. But his characteristic zest for life and rugby took considerably longer to subdue, making his way down from his bed as recently as the Autumn Nations Cup in Autumn 2020 to watch the action on TV. David Mackay, President of Friends of Scottish Rugby, said: “Donald was a truly remarkable man. This is the passing of a legend.”

COLIN R CLARK HUTCHISON (Ca 1946–1950) Colin R Clark Hutchison passed away on 25th January 2021, aged 88.

He sent his sons Peter C Clark Hutchison (Ca 1977– 1981) and Andrew R Clark Hutchison (Ca 1978–1983) to Fettes. The following was published in the Galloway News: On 25th January 2021, died peacefully at home in Kirkcudbright aged 88. Loving and dearly loved husband of Birthe, father (in-law) of Peter and Sonia and Andrew and Jane, and grandfather of Amy.

MICHAEL R C V BROWNE (Ca 1948–1952) Michael R C V Browne passed away on 10th October 2011, aged 77.

Michael was a House Prefect and a keen sportsman at Fettes. He was tennis captain and played tennis as a junior at Wimbledon in 1951. He made his career in Finance and Insurance, working in Calcutta and Rhodesia before returning to the North of England. He retired in 1983. He was survived by his sister Wendy Vernon-Browne who sadly passed away on 23rd September 2019.

GEORGE BALHARRIE (BARRIE) KINNES (Gl 1948–1952) George Balharrie (Barrie) Kinnes passed away on 30th September 2020, aged 85.

At Fettes Barrie was a House Prefect and was in the XV and the tennis team. His sons Angus B Kinnes (JS-Gl 1974–1982) and Andrew M Kinnes (JS-Gl 1980–1987) also attended Fettes.

The following was published in The Courier: Barrie died peacefully, at home, with family on 30th September 2020, George (Barrie) Kinnes, dear husband of Helen, loving father of Lyndsey, Angus and Andrew and grandad to Fraser, James, Clare, Katie, Anna, Jenni and Robbie.

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BARRY O FILER (Gl 1948–1953) Barry O Filer passed away on 9th September 2020, aged 85.

Barry was a House Prefect at Fettes, he competed in athletics, was in the orchestra and in the music club. His brothers, Peter H Filer (Gl 1940–1943) (Deceased) and L. Rex Filer (Gl 1945–1949) (Deceased) were also at Fettes and later he sent his son Colin B Filer (Gl 1977–1982) who was joined by his nephew Denis L Filer (Gl 1968–1973).

The following was published on The Solway Yacht Club website: Barry Filer was one of the longest serving members of the Solway Yacht Club (SYC). Early records show that he was already a member in 1950 thus making it 70 years of continuous association with the club. At this time, he sailed GP14 235 and then Flying Fifteens with great success.

One little known fact about Barry is that he and his brother Peter gave Jackie Stewart his first ever racing cars in 1961. Initially this was a Marcos, followed by an Aston Martin with which he had immediate success, winning several races in his first year of competition. Jackie was eternally grateful to them for the start of his racing career and kept up with Barry throughout his life.

Barry also sailed for the Royal Gourock Yacht Club in 1970. He was Cadet Officer for the SYC both in 1979 and again in 1986. This showed his great interest in bringing forward the next generation of young sailors here at Kippford. He was also instrumental in the development, construction and funding of the new pier which was opened

by Uffa Fox in 1958.

During his continued membership of the SYC he was also a distinguished member of the Clyde Cruising Club, being a Principal Race Officer and overseeing the Scottish Mirror and Flying Fifteen Championships in the mid-1990s.

Apart from being a superb sailor he was a person of great character who everyone enjoyed watching and learning from.

His unique contributions to the SYC over so many years are greatly appreciated. It is a privilege to have known him and he will be greatly missed.

Robert Dinwiddie, Commodore

PETER L WANG (Ca 1948–1953) Peter L Wang passed away on 6th August 2020, aged 87.

At Fettes Peter was a School Prefect and a Cadet Officer.

As an Old Fettesian, Peter was a regular attendee at the Edinburgh Lunches and Remembrance Sunday. He also thoroughly enjoyed Commem.

The following was published in The Scotsman: A beloved husband to the late Mary, father to Mark, Patrick and Magnus, father-in-law to Jayne, Carol and Dossie and grandpa to eight wonderful grandchildren. He was the son of Sigurd Wang of Boreland House, Lockerbie, Dumfries. He married in 1962 Mary Maitland (1939–2014) daughter of Lt-Cdr David Randolph Maitland (1902–1995).

DR JOHN H RANSFORD (Ca 1949–1954) Dr John H Ransford passed away on 27th January 2020, aged 83.

John followed his father, Col Sir Alister J Ransford (SH 1908–1912) (Deceased) to Fettes. John was a House Prefect and he was in the choir, orchestra and the music club. He went on to study medicine at Guy’s Hospital.

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The following was published in the Hereford Times: Adored husband, dad and grandad. Peacefully passed away at home on January 27th, 2020. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

NEVIN C KERR (Gl 1949–1953) Nevin C Kerr passed away on 19th April 2021, aged 85.

The following was published in The Scotsman: Peacefully, at home, on April 19, 2021, with his family around him, Nevin, aged 85, much loved husband of Norma, father to Jennifer, Joanna and Richard, and ‘Papa’ to Jack, Max, Freya, John and Catarina.

EDWARD (TED) R WILLIAMS (Ki 1949–1954) Edward (Ted) R Williams passed away on 27th March 2020, aged 85.

At Fettes Ted was a House Prefect, he was in the chamber orchestra and music club. He left Fettes for Peterhouse, Cambridge.

The following was published in The BMJ: Ted trained in London, Bath, and Bristol and was appointed as a general physician and neurologist, one of the last, at the newly built Walsgrave Hospital in Coventry and George Eliot Hospital in Nuneaton. After more than a decade juggling acute medicine at separate sites, he moved to Nuneaton full time and combined acute medicine with setting up a multidisciplinary diabetes service.

Although he relished the challenge of emergency medicine, he worked hard for those with chronic illnesses, improving quality of life for many and their families. He was particularly proud of the maternity medicine clinic he ran with his obstetric colleagues and even in retirement, he continued to hold a migraine clinic for some years.

He was involved in management throughout his career, experiencing many reorganisations and helping to implement creative solutions to recruitment crises. He was an inspiring and entertaining teacher and a popular after dinner speaker.

Ted had a fine strong bass voice and played the trombone (a legacy of his childhood; his parents were Salvation Army ministers). He became an enthusiastic bell ringer in retirement and played with the village swing band.

He enjoyed travelling and quizzing, took up Scuba diving in his 50s, and loved rugby!

He leaves his second wife, Angela, and his four children.

1950s

KEN D BOYD (Ca 1951–1955) Ken D Boyd passed away on 10th April 2021, aged 83.

At Fettes Ken was a House Prefect. His father Major General Ian H Boyd, CB CBE (Ca 1920-1925) (Deceased) and brother, Callum L Boyd (Ca 1957–1961) also went to Fettes.

The following was published in The Telegraph: Captain Kenneth Boyd, who has died aged 83, was awarded an MC in 1958 while serving with the Royal Ulster Rifles in Cyprus.

On 2nd September 1958 Boyd, then a second lieutenant, was in command of a platoon of the 1st Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles (1 RUR) during a cordon-and-search operation

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near Liopetri, a village in the Famagusta district of southeast Cyprus.

Boyd was awarded an MC following an operation that saw him and his soldiers come under heavy fire from a terrorist attack. The citation stated that his gallantry and powers of leadership were the turning point in the operation.

Kenneth Donald Boyd was born on 19th November 1937 at Rawalpindi, India, (now Pakistan) where his father, Captain (later Major General) Ian Boyd, CB CBE, was serving with the Royal Engineers. He was educated at Fettes and, after attending RMA Sandhurst, in 1957 he was commissioned into the RUR and posted to the 1st Bn. In 1964, after three years with the Bn at Iserlohn, Germany, he was medically discharged. Initially based in London, he worked for the Imperial Life Assurance Company of Canada, and then as an independent financial consultant.

In the early 1970s he moved to Suffolk and devoted much of his spare time to renovating a house in the country. He eventually moved to West Sussex.

He had a lifelong interest in antique clocks and, on his 80th birthday, his son and daughter took him to look at the original John Harrison marine timekeepers at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. A large man, over six feet in height, he had considerable presence and great charm. A generous host with an inexhaustible supply of anecdotes, he was the best of company.

DAVID D WOOD (CW 1951–1955) David D Wood passed away on 18th November 2020, aged 83.

David followed his father, Alexander T Wood (SH 1918–1923) (Deceased) to Fettes and his brother, Brian C Wood (CW 1948–1952), with his young brother, Angus H Wood (CW 1961–1966) also attending. At Fettes David was a House Prefect and in the orchestra. He attained his Bachelor of Law in Edinburgh and went on to be a solicitor.

The following was published in The Scotsman: Aged 83. Died peacefully, in St Andrews Community Hospital, on Wednesday, November 18, 2020. Survived by his wife Morag and children Jo, Graham, Maggie and John, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

DAVID W CARR (CE 1952–1955) David W Carr passed away on 8th September 2020, aged 82.

At Fettes David was a swimmer, winning the diving competition. He kept in touch with Fettes during his life.

He was Chairman of the Merseyside OFA during the 70s and a regular at the NW of England Annual Dinner during the 1980s.

DAVID G S MIDDLETON (Gl 1952–1956) David G S Middleton passed away on 9th December 2020, aged 82.

ANTHONY M MCNEILE (NÉ RICHMOND-JONES) (Ki 1952–1957) Anthony M McNeile (né Richmond-Jones) passed away on 20th July 2020, aged 81.

At Fettes Anthony was Head of Kimmerghame House and was in the choir.

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The following was published in The Telegraph: Anthony Michael, beloved only son of Joan and Hugh McNeile, formerly of Arkwood, The Wirral, Cheshire. A barrister and member of Gray’s Inn, he passed away peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital, Paddington on the 20th of July. A memorial service was held in the Parish Church of Donhead St. Mary, in Wiltshire.

PROFESSOR WILLIAM (NIAL) OSBOROUGH (CW 1952–1957) Professor William (Nial) Osborough passed away on 29th December 2020, aged 81.

At Fettes Nial was a Senior House Prefect and was in the choir. He enjoyed the annual OF All Ireland Burns Supper.

The following was published in the Irish Times: With the passing of the inimitable William Nial Osborough, Ireland has lost its most extraordinary and diverse legal scholar. His legacy is published work that ranks him among the world’s great legal historians. He will live on in the memory of the thousands of law students that he inspired.

After attending secondary school at Fettes College in Edinburgh, he read law at Queen’s University before obtaining a scholarship for postgraduate study at Tulane University in New Orleans. He returned to Queen’s as a lecturer in 1963, before an appointment to the law faculty in University College Dublin (UCD) in 1968. A decade later he moved to Trinity as professor of law.

Having taught and written on many subjects earlier in his career, notably tort, he returned to Belfield as professor of jurisprudence in 1988 where he provided final-year law students with the most eclectic curriculum imaginable for that subject.

More than any other law teacher, his ability to communicate important principles about legal rules, through mundane examples from everyday life, caused his students to reflect deeply on much broader questions about the nature of our legal system and the rule of law itself.

Ireland’s greatest legal historian was a founding member and former president of the Irish Legal History Society which has honoured him through its annual W.N. Osborough Composition Prize in Legal History.

A modest and humble man, possessed of a wicked sense of humour, he cut a familiar figure for decades in and around Belfield. His natural charisma, endearing eccentricity and voracious appetite for knowledge ensured that conversation or engagement on any topic, which he always relished with students and colleagues alike, was entertaining, unpredictable and informative in equal measure.

He was elected to the Royal Irish Academy in 2003. He was a former editor of The Irish Jurist.

ROBERT M GARDNER (Ca 1953–1957) Robert M Gardner passed away on 31st October 2020, aged 81.

The following was written by Jim Gillespie (CE 1951– 1955): Robert was the OF Volunteer for the Midlands region for many years and organised many social events. These varied between dinners at a variety of venues and restaurants and organizing canal trips stopping for a canal side pub

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lunch. He was a very active, gentle and sociable man with many interests. After leaving Fettes he studied at the Royal College of Science and Technology in Glasgow where he qualified with a BSc in mechanical engineering. He worked first for Scottish Stampings in Ayr and then moved to Bromsgrove where he worked for Garringtons, another forgings company within the GKN group. He was a very practical and professional engineer. He lived in Tardebigge near Bromsgrove during his time in the Midlands.

Robert was a man of many talents and his activities included board sailing, flying and playing squash until very recently. His main interest was piping which he started at the age of 10 when he joined the Strathendrick Pipe Band in Balfron, Stirlingshire. This interest in piping was further nurtured during his time at Fettes. At College in Glasgow, he joined the TA(REME) where he continued with his piping. He eventually became a Major in the TA. He was Pipe Major for the West Midlands Fire Service Pipe Band for many years.

His services were regularly sought for Burns Night Suppers where he piped in the haggis and “addressed” it, reciting all the verses from memory and delivering it with great passion.

ROGER PUNCHEON (Ki 1953–1957) Roger Puncheon died on 25th December 2020, aged 81.

Roger left Fettes to go into the Hong Kong Shanghai Banking Corporation. He later moved to Dunlop and worked in both the UK and in Singapore. Latterly he lived in East Sussex with his wife Pamela.

ROBIN J MACCORMICK (Mo 1953–1958) Robin J MacCormick passed away on 28th December 2020, aged 80.

The following was published in The Scotsman: Robin spent his early years in Canada and attended Fettes College in Edinburgh, where he began a lifelong friendship with former MSP Dr Ian McKee (Mo 1953–1958).

He later studied at Edinburgh University and became a successful solicitor with Scottish Gas. He was perceived both as a legal eagle behind which one would discover a very sharp and kindly mind. Robin’s many contributions to Scotland included serving for 15 years as secretary of the Scottish Flag Trust that maintains the visitor centre at Athelstaneford. In addition, he was a leading light of the Saltire Society, founded in 1936 to improve the quality of life in Scotland and restore the country as a creative force in Europe.

CHARLES G HAMILTON (Ki 1953–1958) Charles G Hamilton died in April 2020, aged 79.

The following was written by Barrie O Lloyd (Ki 1953– 1958): He was a popular figure among his contemporaries at Fettes and was affectionately known as “Charlie”. Charlie was powerfully built for a schoolboy and was a larger than life character. He was an outstanding games player and played for three years in the Cricket XI, two years in the Hockey XI, and for the 1st XV in his final term. The following report of the cricket match against Merchiston in the July 1958 edition of the Fettesian, aptly captures Charlie’s flamboyant personality and cricketing style:

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“Hamilton at once launched a dashing onslaught upon the bowling. He drove savagely at anything pitched up and when the bowlers attempted variation treated them with hooks and flailing square cuts. In the first half hour of play our score was 76, of which Hamilton himself had made 68, whereupon he was out caught to a good catch on the boundary.”

The match resulted, on a rain-affected day, in a draw heavily in the favour of Fettes. Charlie’s 45 not out against Durham and 35 not out against Glenalmond, however, secured comfortable victories for Fettes in a season when there were also wins against Watsons, Edinburgh Academy, Campbell College, Belfast and a strong Old Fettesian side.

The Loretto match was abandoned without a ball being bowled.

After Fettes, Charlie qualified as a solicitor and specialised in property law in Leicester. He was a loyal Fettesian to the last and regularly attended events organised by the Midlands OFA.

DAVID I ROBERTSON (Mo 1955–1958) David I Robertson passed away on 29th April 2021, aged 80.

David was at Fettes with his brother William G Robertson (Mo 1953–1956) (Deceased) and later sent his son Willie J Robertson (Mo 1980–1983) (Deceased) to Fettes.

The following was published in The Courier: David was known as a farmer, curler, shooter and RollsRoyce enthusiast. Over the years he farmed at Drumnagair, Laurencekirk, and had piggeries at Tealing and Crail, winning many accolades in fat stock shows at Edinburgh and at the Royal Highland Show and Royal Show.

David was educated at Lathallan School, Johnshaven, where he excelled at art and technical drawing, and then Fettes College, Edinburgh.

In his younger years, David was a well-known gokart racer and was in the lead one year for the British Championship but was overtaken before the chequered flag. He also raced the cars he had at the time and was an original petrolhead.

David was a well-known curler and played competitively and very successfully for Inglismaldie Curling Club and won many trophies as can be seen on the ice rink boards in the old rinks of Aberdeen, Dundee, Forfar, Perth, Aviemore, Falkirk, Baden-Baden in Germany, Grindlewald in Switzerland and the former Czechoslovakia.

DAVID A LOCKHART (CW 1956–1960) David A Lockhart passed away on 29th September 2020, aged 77.

David was at Fettes with his brothers George S Lockhart (CW 1954–1958) and Niels S Lockhart (CW 1959–1963).

His three sons Allan S R Lockhart (JS-Gl 1976–1983), David S Lockhart (Gl 1999–2006) and Michael M Lockhart (Inv-Gl 1999–2007) also attended Fettes.

The following was published by NewRiver, the leading Real Estate Investment Trust that David co-founded: David was an entrepreneur, family man and inspirational leader. He was highly respected across the industry, and in a long and varied career set up three successful businesses.

David was particularly proud of NewRiver, which he founded

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with Allan Lockhart and Mark Davies in 2009. He played a major part in creating the group that is now a leading retail and community pub specialist with a portfolio valued at £1.2 billion, before stepping down as Chief Executive in 2018.

In addition to exceptional business acumen, David had a great passion for property and people. He firmly put people at the core of everything he did and was very generous with his time, developing and shaping so many careers and a legacy culture that the Company and its stakeholders will always benefit from.

Baroness Ford, Non-Executive Chairman said: “We are deeply saddened by this news, and the thoughts of everyone at NewRiver are with David’s family and friends. David was a formidable business leader, with a long and distinguished career that saw him found a string of successful businesses, including NewRiver, which he successfully guided from its £25 million IPO on the Alternative Investment Market in 2009 to become a FTSE 250 company. As a much loved member of the NewRiver team, David will be remembered for his warmth and good humour as much as for his wisdom and sharp intellect. Having known David for many years, I deeply valued his friendship and wise counsel, and will miss him dearly.”

MICHAEL W MACNEIL (Mo 1957–1959) Michael W MacNeil passed away on 2nd February 2020, aged 78.

The following was published in The Chronicle Herald (of Canada): It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Warren MacNeil of Avondale. Michael was born in 1941 in Halifax to Margaret V. MacNeil (Oxner) of Halifax, and then Lieutenant Commander Robert A.S. MacNeil OBE RCNR, of Montreal. Michael grew up in Halifax and Ottawa, attending Ashbury College there and later Fettes College in Edinburgh, Scotland. After a 40–year career as a computer consultant to both public and private sector organizations in Toronto and Ottawa, Michael moved to Avondale where he devoted his last years to writing. His novel Avenda’s Legacy was published in 2018. After a long illness, Michael passed away peacefully in Hants Community Hospital on February 2, 2020. Michael is survived by his wife, Mira; son, Christopher (Patricia); grandchildren, Julianna and Sabrina; his brothers, Robert and Hugh (Alison); stepsister, Margot Mackay; mother-in-law, Ela; sister-in-law, Basia (Kazik); brothersin-law, Krzysztof, Jacek; and nieces and nephews on both sides of the family. He will be greatly missed by us all. Many thanks to medical support, nurses, doctors at QEII Health Sciences Centre and Hants Regional Hospital in Windsor, also to our Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Lois Hare.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at a later date.

DAVID J COLLINS (Ki 1957–1960) David J Collins passed away on 21st October 2020, aged 78.

At Fettes David was a House Prefect. He was in the Hockey XI and he competed in athletics.

The following was published in Elko Daily Free Press: With sadness we share the news of the passing of our husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, David James Collins. Dad was born February 12th, 1942 in Lima, Peru to parents Robert and Dorothy, joining his older brother

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Ian. Age 15, he was enrolled in boarding school at Fettes College, Edinburgh, Scotland followed by university at the Royal School of Mines, London, England.

At the RSM, he earned a degree in Mineral Dressing Engineering that began a 45-year career in the mining industry. Dad started his career as a metallurgist in Honduras at Rosario Mining Company’s El Mochito mine followed by working for Dow Chemical in Walnut Creek, California helping develop flotation reagents still used today.

In 1972, he moved to Tembagapura in Irian Jaya, Indonesia.

He was in on the start-up copper flotation mill that is now one of the premier mines in the world. Working for Freeport led Dad to help design and start up the Jarret Canyon mine in Elko, Nevada, and with FMC, the Paradise Peak Mine in Hawthorne, Nevada. He worked in Mexico, New Mexico, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru. In 2001, Dad joined Newmont Mining Company with two stints in Uzbekistan and several years at their Carlin Operations before retiring in 2009.

Dad led our family on an adventurous life, with many travels and good times all over the world. He was a gentle man who did not like to be angry and always treated people with kindness and respect. Along with his distinguished career in the precious metals mining industry, he was an excellent golfer. Born and raised in Lima, he was fluent in Spanish and enjoyed practicing whenever and wherever the opportunity presented itself. He could and would dance the Latin rhythms joyously, with anyone who would join him. He liked to be around the people he loved, celebrating.

Dad passed on October 21, 2020, from natural causes with Eleanor, Andrew and Anita by his side. Dad would say it has been a “good innings.” We are going to miss him fiercely.

JULIAN B SOUTER (Ca 1957–1961) Julian B Soutar passed away on 23rd July 2020, aged 76.

Julian was in Carrington House with his brothers Christopher Souter (Ca 1954–1959) and Nigel Souter (Ca 1961–1965). His cousins Michael Souter (Gl 1955–1960) and Richard Souter (Gl 1957–1962) attended Fettes around the same time. His father David Souter (Ca 1930–1934) (Deceased), uncles Douglas Souter (Ca 1924–1928) (Deceased) and Ian Souter (Ca 1927–1930) (Deceased), and more recently Nigel’s daughter Jane Hornsby (née Souter) (CE 1989–1991) also attended Fettes.

The following was written by Julian’s wife, Rosie: Julian was born in Bamburgh, Northumberland, second son to Joan and David Souter, and brother to Christopher, Nigel and Diana. He was from a shipping family and the Sheaf Steam Shipping Co. was founded by his grandfather Sir William Souter in Newcastle in 1906.

He was educated at Ascham House in Newcastle, and then Fettes College, leaving in 1961. He went on to cut his teeth in shipping at Swan Hunter in Newcastle, then Denholm Group in Glasgow. Whilst there, he spent 16 months at sea learning the ropes and had sailed around the world twice by the time he was 21.

He moved to London in the 60s working at Union Castle doing logistics for passenger ships, then on to Tamplin and Co. as a shipbroker and later his own shipbroking.

He had a great love of the countryside, a keen shot and fly fisherman on many Scottish rivers and Hampshire’s River Test. He was also an enthusiastic vegetable grower, ornithologist and collector of Thorburn and Harrison

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paintings. He could tell you each year what date he heard the cuckoo in April and in previous years, and looked forward to the arrival of the swallows, swifts and housemartins. He was a cryptic crossword fiend, enjoyed reading, architecture and watching ballet.

A lifelong Wimbledon fan each summer, he was also a chess wizard, enjoyed bridge, and family bagatelle contests.

He was a handy tennis player and used his wooden Dunlop Maxply racquet until about 1995, wearing his Old Fettesian cricket jumper to boot.

In July last year, he and his wife Rosie (née Henn-Collins) celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary, together with son Alexander, daughter Marina, daughter-in-law Anna, and grandsons William and Thomas.

In the 70s, they moved to Hampshire and became involved in village life where they lived in Sherborne St John.

There were many years as a Parish Councillor and several years also as a Governor of the village school where a Souter Memorial Cup is awarded each year for the “best improver”. He also organised for the school to take delivery of a minibus.

A sports pavilion on the village recreation ground was also initiated by a committee he was on. It is a much-used facility used by many not only in the village but surrounding area.

ROBIN A LIND (Gl 1957–1962) Robin A Lind passed away on 26th May 2021, aged 76.

Robin was captain of the XV, captain of fives, member of the 1st Hockey XI and winner of the coveted Challenge Clock. He was also a School Prefect. His brothers, Henry Lind (Gl 1960–1964) and Alistair Lind (Gl (1961–1966) were also at Fettes.

The following was published in the Dunfermline Press: A well-kent face in Dunfermline sporting and legal circles has died at the age of 76. Robin Lind, a private client conveyancing lawyer, was a partner in Ross and Connell in Dunfermline until he retired in 2009. A keen rugby player, he played for Dunfermline Rugby Club and Melrose and was also involved with the Northern and Midland District team, the Caledonia Reds, and was president of the Co-Optimist Rugby Club between 2013 and 2019.

Born in England in October 1944, Robin moved up to Dunfermline with his parents, Bobby and Joan, after his father had been offered a practitioner’s post in Comely Park.

The eldest of four siblings, Robin attended Cargilfield School in Edinburgh before moving on to Fettes College. He started an accountancy apprenticeship, however, made the decision to then study law.

He joined Ross and Connell in 1979 and became a senior partner several years later and stayed with the firm

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until he retired. He and wife Lindsey, who died in 2007, had three children, Alison, Graham and Kirsty, as well as eight grandchildren. Robin later married second wife Agnes in 2012 and moved to Elie, a place where he had enjoyed many family holidays.

A keen golfer, Robin was a member at Dunfermline Golf Club as well as clubs at Elie, Murrayfield and St Andrews.

Former rugby team-mate John Haxton said Robin was a “well-kent” face in Dunfermline and Edinburgh. “Robin was always a consummate sportsman and a fantastic sportsman even at schoolboy level,” he said. “He loved golf, he was also a very good cricketer and was good at hockey at school and he was good at squash – he was an all-round sportsman.”

JOHN A (DREW) BELL (Mo 1958–1962) John A (Drew) Bell passed away on 15th November 2018, aged 74.

The following was published in the Newcastle Journal: John A Bell, known as Drew, passed away suddenly on the farm he owned and loved on 15th November 2018, aged 74. He is much missed by wife Mary, and children, Mary, Richard and Charles as well as three grandchildren.

DAVID L ARNOLD (Ki 1958–1962) David L Arnold passed away on 3rd September 2019, aged 74.

At Fettes David was a House Prefect. He then moved on to University College London.

The following was written by his wife, Catriona: David went on to UCL where he studied Civil Engineering, but his passion was in water and its treatment, firstly through microstraining and then by the use of ozone. He started his career with Mather & Platt then joined a small company, Ozotech Ltd. He remained with this group of colleagues and friends for most of his working life. David was a quiet, gentle man with quite a weird sense of humour who loved his cricket and rugby. He leaves behind myself and his beloved daughter Jenny.

HAROLD (HUGH) COLLINSON (Mo 1958–1960) Harold (Hugh) Collinson passed away on 27th April 2021, aged 76.

At Fettes Hugh participated in a range of sports as a Colt.

He left Fettes to work in accountancy and kept in touch by attending OF Dinners, including those in the North West near his home.

The following was written by Hugh’s wife, Janet: Hugh attended Fettes College before joining Deloitte, Plender, Haskins and Sells as an article clerk, qualifying as an accountant at 21. He continued with the company until he went to Lockers Engineering in Warrington as Financial Director. It was in this role he travelled regularly to the United States and to Australia.

In 1986 he moved to Pendle Travel, which became Airtours and successfully floated the company to PLC in 1987, when he became Managing Director. As tour operating developed, Hugh travelled to many ‘exotic’ destinations, exploring new business opportunities. His passion was the introduction of ships, Sun Cruises was born and he was very proud to become Chairman.

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Hugh loved classic cars, shooting, rugby and Irish Wolfhounds. He started a lifelong passion for sailing and boats at school. He owned many craft, sailing and motorised.

It was Naiad Errant, one of the Dunkirk Little Ships of which he was most proud. He had her restored and cherished her.

He planned Naiad Errant’s participation in the 2020 return to Dunkirk with military precision and his usual attention to detail. He was very disappointed when cancellation of the event, in the face of a global pandemic, became the only option.

Hugh touched many lives, he found time to help people to develop their careers and to give support and encouragement. He was a much loved husband of Janet and father to Rachel and Philippa.

Over and above everything else he was kind and a consummate gentleman. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

JOHN M WALDER (Ca 1958–1962) John M Walder passed away on 24th June 2020, aged 75.

At Fettes John was a regular in the 2nd XI cricket team.

He was also involved in the sound effects and lighting for the Carrington House Play Housemaster of 1961. John had a career as a surveyor and he maintained strong connections to Newcastle and the North East where he lived and worked.

NEIL MCLEOD (Gl 1958–1963) Neil McLeod passed away suddenly but peacefully on 9th August 2020, aged 75.

At Fettes he was Head of House and was an early recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. He went on to read Law at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge.

PROFESSOR JOHN M SQUIRE (Ki 1958–1963) Professor John M Squire passed away on 31st January 2021, aged 75.

At Fettes John participated in many activities: CCF, choir and orchestra as well as rugby, cricket, hockey, fives, tennis and golf. He left Fettes for Kings College London where he studied physics. A stellar career in research followed in the field of Biophysics.

The following was published on the Imperial College London website: John Squire, Professor at the University of London and Visiting Professor at Imperial. John passed away on 31st January 2021, a victim of the deadly Sars-cov-2 virus which has been causing havoc around the world since the start of 2020. John is survived by his wife, Melanie, their four daughters and ten grandchildren.

Professor John Michael Squire (B.Sc. Ph.D. C.Phys., F.Inst.P., C.Biol., F.S.B) was internationally renowned for his research on the structural basis of muscle contraction. He was a Professor of Structural Biophysics in the University of London and Visiting Professor at Imperial College London.

John joined Imperial in 1972 where he established the Biopolymer Group within the Department of Metallurgy and Materials Science. He subsequently moved to the newly formed Biophysics Section in the Department of Physics in 1984 becoming a Reader and then Professor in 1995. In 1999 he became head of the Biological Structure and Function

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Section within the newly established Division of Biomedical Sciences located in the Sir Alexander Fleming Building.

After his official retirement in 2006 he maintained a strong and active interest in research through his ongoing affiliations with Imperial and the University of Bristol.

John was also well known for his leadership within the scientific community. He founded and chaired the Combined Computational Project 13 (CCP13). Throughout his time at Imperial, John ran a thriving research group drawn from a wide range of nationalities and cultures. Within the group he fostered a supportive environment frequently leading to enduring friendships. The group and family members were regularly invited round to John and Melanie’s house in Egham to a series of parties in their beautiful garden at which somehow the sun always seemed to shine.

Many of his former students and postdocs who went on to build their own careers in science continued to work with him on collaborative projects. Additionally, he maintained a substantial network of collaborations with scientists all over the world. That so many were happy to continue to do science with John in this way serves as a testament both to the esteem which he was held scientifically and to the fact that he was a pleasure to work with.

MICHAEL S MENZIES (Ki 1959–1962) Michael S Menzies passed away on 11th April 2021, aged 76.

The following was written by the Menzies family: Mike was born in Alyth near Blairgowrie in December 1944 and educated at Fettes College in Edinburgh. On leaving school, Mike joined Scotland’s largest motor distributors (SMT) as a management trainee. He was selected for special executive training with the vehicle manufacturers along with other international candidates.

This executive training covered all aspects of the business and Mike successfully graduated in 1966. After his comprehensive training, he initially specialised in commercial vehicles and then he moved to prestige cars, both in sales management and dealer principal roles.

He retired from official working life in 2009 after 46 years in the motor industry. As Mike always had an interest in all types of vehicles, he maintained his interest in transport of all kinds when he retired, especially in classic cars. He joined the Strathendrick Classic Car Club and he and Sue enjoyed trips away and classic car runs in the Mazda MX5. In 2013, he established the very first ‘e magazine’ for the Club which he called Overdrive. This magazine went from strength to strength and Mike continued to edit and contribute articles on a regular basis.

In 2017 (after 39 years in Killearn), Mike and Sue moved back to the East Coast and settled in Broughty Ferry. Mike

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joined the Dundee Museum of Transport as a Volunteer Guide shortly after moving and made many friends. He volunteered at the museum every week and enjoyed meeting people and sharing detailed and specialist information about the exhibits. During Covid times, Mike helped the Development Team at the museum to create their quarterly magazine called The Klaxon. Mike’s writing style was universally appreciated, as it was not too technical, focusing instead on the background of products and the personalities involved. He enjoyed especially unearthing little nuggets of information as part of his research and sharing these with all his readers.

A private funeral was held due to Covid restrictions.

Donations were made to the Scottish Air Ambulance as they had helped Mike in 2010. The family would like to express their thanks to all those who donated. Many friends described Mike as a perfect gentleman, a kind friend and a devoted family man. We are all sorry to have lost him so suddenly but are grateful for the big part he played in all our lives.

WALTER (SCOTT) MURRAY (CW 1959–1963) Walter (Scott) Murray passed away on 6th April 2020, aged 74.

At Fettes Scott enjoyed hockey and played for the Hockey XI. 1960s

ROGNVALD (HUNTER) P RAMAGE (CW 1960–1963) Rognvald (Hunter) P Ramage passed away on 28th July 2020, aged 74 after a year battling cancer.

Hunter was one of the first Fettes students to gain a Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award shortly after the Award Scheme began in 1959. Hunter lived in the North East and was a regular at the Annual Newcastle OF Dinner.

JOHN B BELL (CW 1961–1965) John B Bell passed away on 12th November 2020, aged 73.

(L-R) James Henry (Inv-CW 1961-1965), Robert ‘Reg’ Keats (CW 1960-1964) and John B Bell (CW 1961-1965) (Deceased) in their CW study.

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John joined Fettes College in 1961 in College West and was a student here until 1965. During this time, he played fives for the school from 1963–1965, was Cadet Lance Corporal in the CCF, was a member of the school choir and was also a House Prefect.

The following was written by Robin Clegg (CW 1961– 1966): My great friend John Bell (CW 1961–65) passed away in Spain on November 12. John was a good rugby player, also enjoying fives, and was a good piano and organ player, sometimes playing the Chapel organ at College and occasionally School services. Together with James Henry (Inv-CW 1961–1965) he had a great time at Fettes, with antics including getting up at dawn and running to the Forth Road Bridge construction and back before breakfast, and a crazy holiday in France with a student ‘flight’ that consisted of a bus to a Channel airfield, a plane across the water and a bus from the coast to Paris. John, from the Newcastle area, became a bank manager with Barclays. He survived a near-fatal car accident, and on retirement he and his wife Pat moved out to Alemería in Spain, with their son Jonathan and daughter Lynsey remaining in the UK. John was a very positive kind person and a dear friend.

DR LENOX J MILLAR (Ki 1962–1966) Dr Lenox J Millar passed away on 7th October 2019, aged 71.

At Fettes he was House Prefect and competed in athletics.

The following was written by his wife, Jo Millar: Lenox was a General practitioner at the Newgate Medical Group, Worksop (b 1948, q Barts 1971 DRCOG). He died from gall bladder cancer on 7th October 2019.

After working in Nottingham City Hospital, Lenox’s first experience of General Practice was in Australia with his wife Jo, also a doctor. He started in practice in Worksop in 1974, became a senior partner in 1990 and retired in 2010.

He was a popular, much loved GP, with an ability to connect with people. His enthusiasm for the speciality led to him becoming a GP trainer in 1977. His trainees said that he had a human way of teaching, encouraging independent thought and love for the work.

On retirement he became Captain of Lindrick Golf Club, walked the SW Coastal Path and learnt Italian. Diagnosed with gall bladder cancer in 2016, he responded well to treatment, living a full and active life, walking in Scotland until six weeks before his death. Sadly missed by Jo, three children, two grandchildren and friends.

NIGEL M E BURN (Ki 1964–1969) Nigel M E Burn passed away on 25th March 2020, aged 68.

At Fettes Nigel was in the shooting VIII and played the role of Desmond Curry in the Kimmerghame House Play, The Winslow Boy. The following was written by Stewart Squires, Chairman of Trustees, Society for Lincolnshire Heritage and Architecture: Members heard with shock and regret of the death of our Chairman, Nigel Burn, who died suddenly, at home and after a short illness, on Wednesday 25 March 2020. Nigel was a retired solicitor who, in a relatively short time, made a significant contribution to the Society at a number of levels,

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not least as Chairman of the Executive Committee and as a Society Trustee.

Born in 1951 in Tanzania, Nigel studied Law at Leeds University and in Guildford. He was an Articled Clerk in Derby, moving to Lincoln, to work in the Gilbert Blades practice in the late 1970s and, when that was taken over by Wilkin Chapman he worked for them as a Partner, until his retirement.

History and Lincolnshire were clearly important to Nigel.

He was also a member of the Lincoln Castle Guides, Lincoln Cathedral Roof Guide Leader and a Floor Guide, and an active member of the national Castle Studies Group. I had the opportunity to do both the Cathedral tours with him and was impressed with his expert leadership and understanding of the building.

Nigel was the Society Vice Chairman from 2014, becoming Chairman in 2016 until his death. He had a remarkable appetite for work, outstanding intellectual ability and a keen sense of humour.

With his hard work and great clarity of thought he truly left the Society on a much better footing than he found it.

The tragedy is that he had so much more to give and we are all so much poorer as a result of his untimely death. Nigel will be greatly missed by us all.

PROFESSOR ARCHIE J MALCOLM (CE 1964–1969) Professor Archie J Malcolm passed away on 23rd November 2020, aged 69.

At Fettes Archie was a House Prefect.

The following was published in The Telegraph: Professor Archie Malcolm was a pathologist who specialised in bones, bone cancer and joints. Malcolm qualified as a doctor in Glasgow and trained as a pathologist under the tutelage of Mary Catto. There have always been one or two specialists who have emerged as the pre-eminent opinion for their generation and Malcolm assumed this mantle from Catto.

He moved to Newcastle in 1981 and quietly set about developing a reputation for excellence. Malcolm’s skill as an expert diagnostician was unsurpassed and he worked closely with leading pathologists including Bill Enneking from Florida, who regularly invited Malcolm to his international training school as the sole international speaker. His work resulted in a major change in practice with the US switching to a UK method of joint fixation.

Malcolm subsequently received the John Charnley award – the preeminent award for research related to the hip.

Malcolm was heavily involved in teaching and research. Always approachable and caring, he acted as his department’s “agony aunt”. A superb lecturer he was in huge demand and eventually limited himself to six major international trips a year. He was President of the UK Association of Clinical Pathologists.

Outside medicine he enjoyed cricket and following the Scottish rugby team. He was an expert on malt whisky, his favourite being Springbank, distilled in Campbelltown. He was addicted to Silent Witness but spent most of the time shouting at the television that they had got it wrong.

Archie is survived by his wife Pat and his five children.

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DAVID A ELLIOT (Gl 1965–1970) David A Elliot passed away on 6th October 2020, aged 68.

The following was written by David’s cousin, Don Elliot (Ca 1966–1971): David Elliot was born in Richmond, Surrey, but moved up north to Yorkshire while he was still young. He went to Fettes as his Godfather Dick Stoker (Staff 1946–1955) was Housemaster there during the fifties. David started in Glencorse in 1965. He was watching a first XV match at Edinburgh Academy when the Glencorse House burnt down!

He was a House Prefect and played in the school first XI cricket in 1970. He was known as a solid, dependable top order batsman. He achieved a Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award and received the medal from the Duchess of Kent. He studied in the BioVI. After Fettes he went to London and became a Chartered Accountant (FCA) working for Deloitte in the City. He yearned for a more exciting profession and joined De Beers and worked in Botswana and Belgium. When he left De Beers, David continued in the diamond industry, starting his own company – Diamond Trading Company based in Antwerp. He consulted for the Northern Territories Govt. in Canada and travelled extensively. He was a lifelong member of the MCC and Denham Golf Club. He enjoyed a social game of golf and went on cricket and golf tours each year with his many friends. He was a keen supporter of Leeds United and attended OF Meetings in London – one of which was in the House of Lords.

He leaves behind three ladies who were very important in his life: his two daughters – Jennifer aged 36, and Emily aged 31, and his sister Caroline.

IAN N K MENZIES (Ki 1965–1970) Ian N K Menzies died peacefully in Cornhill on 29th December 2020, aged 68.

At Fettes Ian was a House Prefect, a member of the photographic society and the geographic society and a member of the ski club. He was noted to have spent lots of time in the workshops which perhaps he took on to his career as a professional picture framer.

ALASTAIR G MACKINTOSH (CW-Ar 1966–1970) Alastair G Mackintosh passed away on 20th July 2020, aged 67.

At Fettes Alastair was a Senior House Prefect, he played in the XV, competed in athletics, was a member of the paramaecium, the athenaeum (further enlightenment of the Fine Arts) and the senior music club.

The following was published on the Legacy.com website: Alastair, aged 67, suddenly, but peacefully, at home, on July 20, 2020. Hugely missed by his loving wife and mate, Fiona, his proud son, Angus and his affectionate sister, Gael.

ALAN J LYALL (SH 1968–1973) Alan J Lyall passed away on 6th November 2019, aged 64.

DOUGLAS W DALE (Gl 1969–1973) Douglas W Dale passed away on 9th August 2020, aged 64.

Douglas followed his father Thomas Dale (Gl 1934–1938)

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(Deceased) to Fettes. His brother Anthony G Dale (Gl 1965–1965) (Deceased) also attended.

The following was published in the East Lothian Courier: Douglas Dale (Scoughall Farm) died peacefully, at home on Sunday 9th August 2020, Dougie, much loved husband of Nici, dearly loved dad of Sandy and Connie.

1970s

ALEXANDER (ALEC) FRASER DAVIDSON (Mo 1970–1974) Alexander (Alec) Fraser Davidson passed away on 13th July 2020, aged 63.

His father Surgeon Captain Alexander (Sandy) Fraser Davidson OBE (Mo 1944–1947) (Deceased) and uncle John S Davidson (Mo 1946–1947) (Deceased) attended Fettes. Alec was at Fettes with his two brothers Thomas M Davidson (Mo 1970–1975) (Deceased), and Ian R Davidson (Mo 1973–1976). At Fettes Alec was a House Prefect and captain of the judo club. He went on to study Medicine at Glasgow University and latterly resided in Farnham, Hampshire.

1980s

PATRICK C ACHESON (Ar-Ki 1978–1983) Patrick C Acheson passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at home on 26th May 2020, aged 55.

At Fettes he was a School Prefect, was in the 3rd XV and the 2nd XI. He was an excellent hockey player and played for the 1st Hockey XI. He was the summer hockey captain in 1983, played Eastern District Hockey and was in the Scottish Schools Hockey Squad. He was the advertising editor of Farrago and was on the Fettesian Committee.

The following was written by Johnny Gibson (Mo 1978–1983): For his many close and loyal friends, it was very sad to hear the news about Patrick (Paddy) Acheson’s recent and sudden death. Paddy was a really solid, dependable friend: Often there in time o’ need – or simply to have a good laugh at just about anything – with a beer or two. At Fettes, he was one of the exceptional A level English Lit set taught by J Charles R S Wilkinson-Valley (Staff 1974–1983) (Deceased), which produced 18 A grades out of 21. Then for both of us 7th term Oxbridge – and an abortive mission to impress the Dons at (for Paddy) The House (and for me) New College (– again their loss!). So on to York University – a convivial, collegiate environment with an edge inherited from its 60s radicalism.

On graduating from York in English and Politics, he went to teach English in Poland at the University of Lodz, where he met Joanna (“Ashka”) – he teaching, she falling for the well-mannered and urbane Northern Irishman impressing the girls with his renditions of Seamus Heaney! He was there at the right time – a very exciting period of change towards consumerism. The first McDonalds golden arches appeared moments after he arrived in Warsaw. I managed one trip to see him and enjoyed the flourishing cafés and underground jazz life as Warsaw tried to catch up with Prague.

We reconvened in Edinburgh to perform in a satirical cabaret with fellow York aspirationals – the Footlights, without the lights, would be a generous description.

Although we apparently impressed a young Harry Enfield

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(also ex-Yorkie, sitting a bit too close to the stage). We were described (incredibly) by the Glasgow Herald thus – “Expect to see some of these performers with their names in lights soon enough.”

Finally in London, we reunited both working together at Saatchi & Saatchi in the early 90s, although not quite at the level of Moray MacLennan (Gl 1974–1979). Not to mention Sir David Ogilvy CBE (SH 1924–1929) (Deceased) of Ogilvy & Mather fame. After this spell in the West End of London, his “project” Poland called again. This time to work in advertising in Warsaw and the vicinity – becoming a kind of go to strategic communications expert.

His contribution to both Saatchi and J Walter Thomson in Poland, amongst others, deserves more acknowledgement.

But it was also a source of disappointment as this market started to dwindle in Poland as the years moved on.

Increasingly frustrated at having to shift his corporate inclination in favour of a less frantic life, he remarked to me: “Why is it that we decided to work in an industry where anyone beyond 40 is de facto a consultant!”.

As godfather to my middle son Felix, Paddy confessed to not being that good in the godfather role, but hoped that Felix on his 18th would accept a cheque for the total number of contributions missed, together with an elegantly crafted letter of apology!

Patrick could have been many things – a political journalist perhaps, of the left of centre variety, inspired

by David Aaronovitch whom he admired. The last social media post from him was a typically amusing ponder on the etymology of the word “furlough” as we locked-down, while also having a rant at Michael Gove’s lack of understanding of European issues v-a-v Brexit. Typical Paddy – sharp, dry, funny. Whether his talents were channelled as well as could be, is just one of those pointless ruminations.

Paddy was a really good person with a lovely sense of humour – with conviction about right and wrong. I am sad he’s gone – regretful that in the last few years we could have had more laughs, enjoyed more beer together, exchanged more futile observations and benefitted from his wisdom and kindness. I’m very grateful though for a friendship which goes back a long way and was deep-rooted. Above all there were many laughs.

I am reminded of a quote I heard recently; “In life, it’s nice to be important. But it’s even more important to be nice.” – it could have been his epitaph.

ELIZABETH (NICOLA) FERGUSON (Ar 1981–1983) Elizabeth (Nicola) Ferguson passed away on 11th March 2021, aged 55.

At Fettes Nicola was a House Prefect, played tennis and was in both the Chapel choir and the concert choir.

The following was written by Cordelia Pilz (née Harrison) (Ar 1982–1984): Nikki was one of the first girl residents of Arniston, spending her Upper Sixth year in the boarding house before going up to Cambridge to read English at Newnham College.

The picture of her in my mind is of her smiling and laughing, very animated but with an element of fragility. I will never forget her kindness when I went up to Newnham for my interview. I spent the night before in College and Nikki took me under her wing – she showed me around, took me to the cinema (it was the wonderful Death in Venice) and then back

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to her room for poached eggs and baked beans on toast.

Simple fare but the novelty of a student life in such beautiful surroundings must have inspired me for I was successful in my interview the following day. I saw her again when on one of my first work assignments in Aberdeen. Again, she had time for me and we spent a couple of evenings together catching up. Time passed, we lost touch and I was terribly sorry to hear of her death.

BARRY N MACDONALD (Ar-Ki 1979–1984) Barry N Macdonald passed away suddenly on 9th December 2020, aged 54.

At Fettes Barry was in the XV and played rugby sevens. He was in the Cricket XI and competed in athletics and golf.

Among the many tributes paid to Barry was this from his long-time friend and fellow OF Scott Roberts (Ca 1980–1982) who said: “Barry was like a brother to me and my mum thought of him as a son. We have known each other from the age of 12 when we both joined Fettes and have been in each other’s lives ever since. He even accompanied me on my first date with my now wife Helen back in 1988. I was Best Man at his wedding and he was Best Man at mine. He had no idea what a doorbell was. We had to remind him often that he didn’t live at our house as he just bowled into the kitchen. They broke the mould when they made Barry. He has left an unfillable hole in my life and I will miss him always.”

Another tribute was received from Alistair Pickles (Ca 1955–1959): “I have known the Macdonald family for over twenty-five years and during that time I have always enjoyed Barry’s company enormously, to say he had a magnetic personality is perhaps an understatement, he was quite simply larger than life!

“On leaving school he graduated from Glasgow Caledonian University with a degree in Civil Engineering.

He then joined his father Alan in the family business, Dawn Construction, where he worked for two years. Barry then decided it was time to broaden his horizons so he took up a position with an Australian construction company where he worked on the building of a shopping mall.

“Returning to Ayr he became a director of Dawn Construction, responsible for General Works. Over the years Dawn grew into a very successful company and recently sold out to Elgin based Springfield Properties.

“His love of horses took him into the world of horse racing, especially when the family made a substantial investment in Ayr racecourse. Barry was never happier than on race days, looking after clients with his own inimitable style of entertaining.

“Besides racing, Barry had many other interests including being a member of a fishing syndicate; he was also a keen shot. He also found time to play golf and was a member of Western Gailes and Dundonald, both links courses on the Ayrshire coast. He played rugby for Ayr 1st XV where he

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proved to be a powerful winger. Once his playing days were over, he coached the youngsters at Ayr introducing his son Adam into the game.

“More recently he became very interested in breeding horses which soon became his passion. His father recalls the story of Barry, when he was in charge of building a primary school at Benderloch not far from Loch Nell in Argyll, he named one of his horses Loch Nell which went on to win many races. He was over the moon when Loch Nell was in foal but sadly he died before the mare gave birth.

“Barry was happily married to Gillian and they have three children, Adam, Verity and Amber. He was never happier than when he was in charge of the barbeque in the company of friends and family.”

THE REVD ALASDAIR D HARDING (JS-SH 1977–1984) The Revd Alasdair D Harding passed away on 13th December 2018, aged 52.

He is survived by three sons.

DOMINIC P BUSBY (SH-Ca 1982–1986) Dominic P Busby passed away on 10th June 2021, aged 53.

At Fettes Dominic was captain of cross country and was in the debating society. Many of Dominic’s peers at Fettes contacted us to say how saddened they were to hear the news of Dominic’s death after a short illness. Dominic was a friend to many, in particular Gary Torbett (SH 1980–1982) who wrote the following: I remember Dom joined School House during my final year at Fettes – in January 1982 if my memory serves me.

Although a junior member of the House, he did not lack confidence and quickly became an individual you could easily warm to. He simply referred to me as Irvine because of my resemblance to the then Scotland XV’s captain.

Appearance and not ability I should add. In more recent times he got my name right but always the surname – never the first name. Fettes through and through.

About 10 years ago Dom contacted me through Facebook looking for tickets to the forthcoming Calcutta Cup match at Murrayfield which we duly sorted out. Over the following years Dom and his good friend Richard would travel to Edinburgh every year to watch Scotland play either England or Ireland – both becoming close friends of my own Glasgow Warriors supporting mates. Indeed, when Glasgow played Saracens in the Champions Cup quarter final a few years back he gave us a shout-out during an interview with Andy Nicol, much to Andy’s surprise. I have many stories of these weekends, but time and space won’t allow. I will share one though.

We had arranged a table at a pre-match lunch at the Calcutta Cup match in 2014 which my good friend and former Scotland player Derek Stark had organised. Now, this was important as it is Derek’s contacts who made Dom’s weekend. I got a call on Friday advising that Tony Stanger, he of that try, would be sitting with us and could I look out for him. No problem. Later that day another call – Rob Wainwright will be doing some speaking so he’ll sit with us too. No problem. I decided not to let on to Dom and the others that two former B&I Lions would be joining us – I wanted to see his reaction at the table above all else. It got better. I received a call on Saturday morning to say, as

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there were only eight at our table, it would be made up to 10 by Gregor Townsend and Andy Nicol. A total of four ex-Lions. We arrived at our table and up rocks Tony. Intros done – Dom’s excitement levels are fairly high. Gregor arrives next, my fellow Warriors fan is pretty excited now as he was our Head Coach at that time. Dom’s voice getting very high at this point. Well, when Rob and Andy sat down with us, for the one and only time I can recall, Dom was speechless. Only for about 90 seconds – but it was bliss. He was in his element, as you would expect, quizzing the guys on their playing days, talking about guys he knew from his work at the BBC and so on. Over the years Dom was always genuinely excited to meet ex-internationalists at Derek’s events or with him in a bar after the game, get a selfie and share a few words. We are all going to miss the way his childlike enthusiasm brightened these weekends.

Dom was one of the most positive people I have been lucky enough to know. Even near the end of his life he never complained about the hand he had been dealt – he just talked about his gratitude for everyone’s kindness towards him – typical Dom. I’ll miss his calls every few weeks to chat about sport and life in general. My sister showed me a message she sent Dom shortly before his passing in which she talked about good times in Edinburgh and their mutual love of Harrogate. She went on to say ‘I want to thank you for the friendship you have shared with Gary over all these years – he is truly a better man for it‘ – I think anyone who knew Dom was truly better for it.

The following was written by Dominic’s brother, Patrick Busby, and published in The Guardian newspaper: My brother Dominic Busby, who has died from a brain tumour aged 53, was a popular BBC broadcaster on Radio 5 Live as well as many local stations, primarily Radio York and BBC Southern Counties Radio, for which he presented the peak Drivetime show.

Born in Harrogate, Dom was the youngest of three sons of Magda, an interior designer, and Paul Busby, owner of a furniture and ceramics shop in West Park. Our greatgrandfather was Ernest Busby, the founder of the famous Busby’s department store in Bradford.

At Cundall Manor prep school in North Yorkshire, Dom was taught by Stephen Fry, who said of his pupil: “He was as delightful, bubbly, charming and smart then as he was throughout his career.” He went on to Fettes College in Edinburgh, where he excelled in athletics and was captain of the Scottish Schools-winning running team.

After leaving school, Dom spent some time working as an assistant manager in a Davy’s wine bar in London before beginning his career in broadcasting at Harrogate’s Stray FM. This led to him joining BBC Radio York in 1988, aged 21.

In the late 1990s he presented an evening programme broadcast across BBC local radio in the south. He then

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joined BBC Southern Counties Radio in 2002 to present the popular Drivetime show. While based in the south, Dom remained proud of his Yorkshire roots and became well known for giving away Harrogate Sulphur Soap.

Shortly after BBC Sport relocated from London to Salford in 2011, Dom began working as a sports bulletin presenter on Radio 5 Live and Radio 4. He also presented news bulletins for 5 Live and Radio 3, and worked for several local radio stations including BBC Radio Manchester, BBC Radio Humberside and BBC Radio Sussex.

In 2006 Dom married Alison Harper, a BBC colleague.

Although the marriage ended in divorce, they remained on good terms.

Dom enjoyed and followed all sports, and was a great supporter of Harrogate Rugby Club and Yorkshire County Cricket Club in particular.

He is survived by Magda and his brothers, Christopher and me.

Former Staff and Friends of Fettes

MARGARET BUCHANAN-SMITH (Former Glencorse Resident) Margaret Buchanan-Smith, wife of former Chaplain and Housemaster of Glencorse, The Revd The Hon George Buchanan-Smith (Staff 1960–1981) (Deceased), passed away on 29th November 2020.

Margaret was connected to Fettes not only as a long term resident of Glencorse, but her sister-in-law was the late Dame Mary Corsar, Former Governor (1982–1999) (Deceased). In addition, she was mother to Stuart Buchanan-Smith (JS-Mo 1976–1984); Professor Hannah Buchanan-Smith (Ca 1978–1980); Adam Buchanan-Smith (JS-Mo 1975–1983); Fiona McIntosh (Ca 1976–1978) as well as grandmother to three current students.

BARBARA RHODES (Former Moredun Resident) Barbara Rhodes, wife of former Housemaster of Moredun David Rhodes (Staff 1969–1999) (Deceased), passed away on 20th January 2021.

Barbara supported the school in many ways whilst resident in Moredun House, notably teaching girls’ games.

Her sons James Rhodes (JS-Gl 1977–1986) and Andrew Rhodes (JS-Gl 1981–1989) also attended Fettes. She will be missed by many.

PROFESSOR BERT BRACEWELL (Former Staff 1966-2005) Professor Bert Bracewell, former Fencing Coach at Fettes for almost 40 years, passed away on 14th June 2020, aged 84.

The standards reached by Fettes students in Fencing, which has included representative honours at national and Olympic level, was largely due to the skill and enthusiasm of Professor Bracewell.

The following was published on British Fencing website: It is with the deepest regret that we inform you of the passing of Professor HT (Bert) Bracewell on Sunday, 14th June 2020, aged 84. Bert passed peacefully with his family by his side. His wife, Joan, daughters Julia and Karen and son, Michael, ask us all to celebrate his life and not mourn.

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WILLIAM (BILL) STEIN MBE (Former Staff 1985–1995) William (Bill) Stein MBE passed away on 14th August 2020, shortly before his 90th birthday.

Bill was awarded an MBE for services to swimming in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in June 1996.

ROBERT G MACFARLANE, ARCM (Former Staff 1959–1965) Robert G MacFarlane, ARCM passed away on 15th May 2021.

He was a member of the music staff at Fettes from 1959–1965, until he left to take up a position at Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester.

The following was written by Douglas Bruce (Ca 1955– 1960): Robert endeared himself to his many piano students – of whom I was one for my last two school years – and earned the nickname ‘Twinkle’ on account of his charming, courteous manner. He was a very conscientious musician, with whom I kept up from about the year 2000 when he had retired to Crieff, and indeed every year until 2019 on visits to Scotland often at the Glenturret Distillery Restaurant.

So perhaps it is fitting that his final three or so years were spent at a care home on the same side of the same road, a mile further into Crieff.

SUSAN LESTER-CRIBB (Staff 1976–1992) Susan Lester-Cribb sadly passed away on 8th June 2021.

Susan was wife of the late Michael Lester-Cribb (Staff 1949–1988) (Deceased), Director of Music and Housemaster of College East.

The following was published in The Scotsman: Susan was a talented musician and generous human being and will be hugely missed by Martha, Sandy, family, friends and lodgers around the world.

DAME MARY CORSAR DBE FRSE (Former Governor 1982–1999) Dame Mary Corsar DBE FRSE passed away on 12th August 2020, aged 93.

The following was published by the Peerage News with additions from the Fettes College archives: The Hon Dame Mary Corsar, DBE, died aged 93. She was Chairman TSB Foundation Scotland 1994–97 [Trustee 1992– 97]; Women’s Royal Voluntary Service 1988–93; Deputy Chief Commissioner Girl Guides for Scotland, 1972–77; Chairman, Scottish WRVS, 1981–88. Member: Visiting Committee, Glenochil Young Offenders Institution, 1976–94; Parole Board for Scotland, 1982–89; Hon Pres., Scottish Women’s AAA, 1973–91; Member, Executive Committee, Trefoil Centre for Handicapped, 1975–; Convocation, Heriot-Watt University, 1986–89; Member, Royal Anniversary Trust, 1990– 93; Governor of Fettes College, 1982–99; FRSE, 1997.

She was appointed DBE in 1993 for her services to the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service. Upon receipt of the award,

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she was quoted as saying “Needless to say, I’m delighted, but not just for myself. I feel this award represents the work that’s being done by the 160,000 members who do the most wonderful jobs throughout the country.”

Dame Mary was connected to Fettes not only as a Governor – her daughter Mollie Guest (Ca 1981–1983) was here as a student and her brother was The Revd The Hon George A. Buchanan-Smith (Staff 1960–1981) (Deceased), College Chaplain and Housemaster of Glencorse 1967–1981.

In addition, she was sister-in-law to the late Margaret Buchanan-Smith, aunt to Stuart Buchanan-Smith (JS-Mo 1976–1984); Professor Hannah Buchanan-Smith (Ca 1978–1980); Adam Buchanan-Smith (JS-Mo 1975–1983); Fiona McIntosh (Ca 1976–1978) and great aunt to three current students. Interestingly, when Dame Mary joined the board of Governors in 1982 she, along with Kay Kemball who was appointed at the same time, were the first two female members of the Board.

PROFESSOR SIR NEIL JAMES DOUGLAS PRCPE, MD, DSC (Former Governor 1987–1992) Professor Sir Neil James Douglas PRCPE, MD, DSc passed away on 23rd August 2020, aged 71.

The following was published on The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh website: Professor Douglas was a medical doctor and was president of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh from 2004–2010, as well as Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges from 2009–2012.

He graduated MBChB from the University of Edinburgh with distinction in medicine, therapeutics and surgery in 1973 having been a pre-clinical scholar at the University of St Andrews.

Professor Douglas later became a professor of respiratory and sleep medicine at the University of Edinburgh and an honorary consultant physician at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. Professor Douglas dedicated his life to medicine, and in the 2009 New Year Honours, he was made Knight Bachelor for his services to the profession.

Throughout a long and distinguished academic career, Professor Douglas’ major interest has been in sleep medicine. He was one of the pioneers in clinical research in this area, and he established the Scottish National Sleep Centre in 1983, also becoming its director until his retirement in 2012.

IRENE (JUNE) MACKENZIE (Former Matron 1978–1981) Irene (June) Mackenzie died peacefully on 23rd April 2021 at the age of 96 in St Andrews, Fife.

The following was written by her daughter, Sheena: Originally from Cambridge, she met her husband during the war and moved to Edinburgh in 1946 to marry and lived here until 2013 when, aged 88, she moved to St Andrews to be closer to her son and one of her two daughters. She was widowed early at 48 years old and never remarried.

Volunteering was a major part of June’s life and her contributions to the community often focused on caring for children and young people. Notably, she set up one of the first Play in Hospital schemes in 1973 at Edinburgh’s Western General, using her experience as a playleader in several nurseries in Edinburgh to support terminally ill

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children. She was also a Matron in two Edinburgh Public schools – Fettes from 1978–1981, and The Royal Academy from 1990–1993, where she set up the first girl’s boarding house. June was one of Edinburgh’s Citizens Advice Bureau’s longest serving volunteers and kept giving up her time for others until her early 90s. She most recently volunteered for North East Fife Homestart. She was a loving grandmother and a great grandmother. She was a skilled bridge player who took delight in beating her family members at cards.

She remembered her time at Fettes with great affection and was very pleased that many who knew her as Matron stayed in touch over the years.

PROFESSOR JOHN D CASH (Former Governor 1997–2002) Professor John D Cash passed away on 8th December 2020.

Professor Cash was a Governor of the Fettes Trust from 1997 to 2002.

CAMERON C THAW (Former Staff 1988–1997) Cameron C Thaw passed away on 21st March 2021.

The following was written by William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955), Governor of Fettes 1984–1997 and Alasdair Fox (Mo 1959–64), Clerk to the Governors 1976–2015: After schooling at Hamilton Academy and qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in Glasgow, Cameron joined Shell International where he worked for 24 years not only in the United Kingdom, but also in Venezuela, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Jamaica and Kenya. After retiring he came to Fettes as Bursar in 1988.

The financial position was not easy during his time, as the student headcount was low and expenditure had to be controlled carefully. Cameron found the work challenging but satisfying. As a result, despite the difficulties, the school functioned well under his financial supervision,

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which not only kept it going but also laid the foundation for its subsequent success. Undoubtedly, he was the man for the moment and the school, and indeed the whole Fettes community, has every reason to be grateful to him.

As well as being a good accountant, Cameron was thoughtful, conscientious, unflappable, a giver of sound advice and a pleasure to work with. He was highly regarded both by ourselves and by Malcolm Thyne, the Headmaster in his day and was devoted to Fettes.

Cameron was also a keen family man. He and Janet, whom he married in 1964, had two sons in Kimmerghame, Alastair Thaw (Ki 1983–1988) and Jonathan Thaw (Ki 1992– 1997). Three of their grandchildren, Alastair Norton (PS-Ki 2008–2014), Amy Norton (PS-Ar 2010–2016) and Oliver Norton (PS-Mo 2014–2021) were also educated at Fettes.

Cameron and Janet spent his retirement in Cramond where he gardened, did charity work, played golf, and together they travelled overseas to visit their family. His life was celebrated at a fine service in Cramond Kirk which was watched on video by a large number of his Fettes friends and former colleagues.

BOB W STEEL (Former Staff 2009–2009) Bob W Steel passed away on 11th August 2020, aged 65.

The following is Bob’s Valete from The Fettesian magazine in 2009: Since joining Fettes in January to replace the Geography ladies on maternity leave, Bob has done his best to encourage us to go green and corrupt the staff into participating in the beer society. Having quickly proved himself an able and dedicated member of the Geography Department, Bob decided to impart his horticultural knowledge to the allotment club. He spent many an hour digging up the gardens of Moredun, and Thindu the resident digger was always keen to help. Although his dubious love of 80s rock prevents him from being perfect, his knowledge of local pubs and accompanying refreshments was exemplary.

Bob’s dry sense of humour, his passionate love of local politics and willingness to help at every turn, have made him an engaging colleague. We all wish him well as he returns down south to embark upon his writings about the River Wandle.

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OFA OFFICE BEARERS

THE FETTESIAN TRUST

President Henry Cave (SH 1980–1984)

Trustees William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955) Henry Cave, President OFA (SH 1980–1984)* Amanda Forsyth (née Baker), Treasurer (Ar 1982–1984) Ian Gardiner (Mo 1963–1968) Roy Leckie, OF Governor (Ca 1985–1990)* Richard Llewellyn, Vice-President OFA (Mo 1987–1992)* Nichola Lyons, Secretary (JS-CE 1984–1990)

Vice-President Richard Llewellyn (Mo 1987–1992) OF Governor Roy Leckie (Ca 1985–1990) Hon Secretary Cordelia Pilz (née Harrison) (Ar 1982–1984)

*Ex-officio Trustees (OFA)

Hon Treasurer Carla Bannatyne (Inv-CE 2005–2013) Auditors Messrs Chiene and Tait, CA Committee Brian Cameron (CE 1956–1960) Philip Church (JS-Gl 1985–1993) Abigail Gliksten (Ar 2009–2011) David Hay (Ca 1991–1996) Georgie Hill (CW 1990–1993) Rona MacVicar (Staff 1984–2019) Nigel Shepherd (Mo 1975–1979)

Thank you to our Advertising Partners: The Caledonian Club Pemburys Rathbones Simpson & Marwick Edited by Vivienne Clark, OF Coordinator with contributions from Karen Jones, Fettes Community Engagement Manager and Craig Marshall, College Archivist Designed by Kenneth Gray Printed by Lavenham Press

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