Bulletin july13

OA BULLETIN

Building on Success Headmaster’s Notes – Page 8

Old Albanian Club

DIARY DATES

July 2013

Founders’ Day – 6th July 2013 OA Dinner – 27th September 2013

OA CLUB www.oldalbanianclub.com President Alan Philpott

01992 584862

alanjphilpott@gmail.com Secretary David Buxton

01727 840499

d.buxton@virgin.net Treasurer Brian Sullman

01582 460317 Membership Secretary Roger Cook

01727 836877

Rogercook@btinternet.co.uk OA SPORTS www.oarugby.com RUGBY President Richard Milnes

07940 255355 richard.milnes@oarugby.com Chairman Rory Davis

07748 146521

rory.davis@oarugby.com Treasurer Mike Curtis

01727 866848 mikecurtis509@hotmail.com Secretary Peter Lipscomb

01727 760466 peter.lipscomb@oarugby.com Mini Chairman Mike Fisher

mikefisher2001@hotmail.com Junior Chairman Ian Tomlins

07867 971585 juniorchairman.oarugby@yahoo.co.uk OA Saints Chairperson Maddy Gunnell maddy.gunnell@oarugby.com FOOTBALL www.oasoccer.co.uk Club President Simon Bates & Manager 07720 383600 01442 240247 Treasurer David Hughes

Nick Chappin – Editor Andy Chappin – Design & Production Roger Cook – Membership 2

OA BULLETIN JULY 2013

07890 831315 01727 769237

dh@sherrards.com Sponsorship Secretary David Burrows

07841 431614 CRICKET www.oacc.org.uk President Tony Dalwood 07958 522261 adalwood@yahoo.com Chairman Richard Morgan

01727 843844 richard.morgan50@btinternet.com Treasurer Denis King

01727 859552 denis.king@btinternet.co.uk Secretary Alison Finley

01727 853985 ajfinley@ntlworld.com TENNIS Membership Enquiries Sue Barnes

07970 301345

susyb52@hotmail.co.uk OTHERS Rifle & Pistol Andrew Wilkie

01727 856857 Angling Geoff Cannon

01582 792512 Golf Peter Dredge

015827 834572

pjdredge42@aol.com & Club Secretary

OA LODGE Assistant Secretary

John Williams 01438 715679 johntwilliams@talktalk.net

SCHOOL WEB site www.st-albans.herts.sch.uk

Kate Le Sueur – Gazette Printing - Herts & Beds Printing 01923 234959

OA COMMENT

O A C O N TA C T

OA BULLETIN JULY 2013

Editorial

Going glossy?

in the activities of the School Development Office, which now May 2000 was an eventful month. A communicates almost exclusively popular rebellion in the Philippines online to former pupils. The was followed by the withdrawal of immediacy and convenience of Israeli troops from Lebanon after digital communications has thrown 22 years of occupation. The meat the future of the OA Bulletin into in this geo-political sandwich was doubt – at least in its present provided by ‘Red Ken’ Livingstone format. As I noted in the last who, to the alarm of many residents edition, the number of readers who of our great capital city, became prefer this more traditional method the first Mayor of of communication has London. It also marked reduced significantly my debut as editor The immediacy in recent years, to of this august organ, the point of becoming having fallen prey to and convenience uneconomic from a skilful ambush by the printing and OA President Andrew of digital distribution point of Mills-Baker a few view. At the same time, months earlier at the communications the volume of letters London Drinks Party: has dwindled away to “What’s the problem?” has thrown the almost nothing from he enquired politely as our older members, I hesitated, “It’s what future of the and the vacuum has you do for a living not been filled by anyway.”

OA Bulletin into contributions from Since that inebriated younger members. It’s evening in an upstairs doubt not that they are in room in the East India any way complacent or Club, the world of disinterested – it’s just communications that I inhabit has that they choose to communicate via changed dramatically. In 2000 the social media and other means. vast majority of my writing work In this issue we welcome the new was for printed materials, from OA President Alan Philpott, and advertisements and brochures to one of his first tasks will be to enlist magazines and newsletters. Just the help of members in deciding the over a decade later, I am fully future form of the Bulletin – possibly immersed in the digital world of in the guise of an annual glossy texts, blogs, tweets, e-newsletters magazine – and he invites readers to and apps. contribute their views (see page 4).

This fundamental shift in In addition to his usual report, consumption patterns is reflected we also publish in full the letter

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President’s Notes sent to the wider school community Elsewhere the OA Lodge from Headmaster Andrew Grant, celebrates the installation of a new who has announced his intention to Grand Master and the successful retire from his post in August 2014 restoration of the stone gargoyles after 21 years at the helm. During in the Abbey Gateway, while his tenure the School has gone from mourning the passing of three strength to strength venerable members. We on every conceivable also bid farewell to a On the rugby measure, and he will number of OAs in the be leaving behind Gazette section, while front the OA 1st a legacy of superb applauding a selection modern facilities and of gongs from a XV enjoyed a the foundations for knighthood to an OBE even greater success in and BEM. fantastic start the future.

I hope you have all On the rugby front enjoyed reading the to life among the the OA 1st XV enjoyed OA Bulletin over the a fantastic start to life last 13 years, and I look among the country’s country’s elite forward to seeing what elite 40 clubs, finishing the future holds for the season in a 40 clubs the publication. In the creditable fifth place meantime, I will end and with some notable with my usual thanks scalps, including home and away to all the regular contributors, and victories over such famous names a request to all readers to continue as Fylde and Coventry. Things are to send in their stories, anecdotes, also looking up for the cricket club memories and views, either by post after a difficult few years, and all or e-mail to me or to the School the teams are hoping for a little Development Office. more cricket after the wash-out of Nick Chappin (75) last season.

Editor

The OA Bulletin The President and members of the Committee have expressed concern regarding the future of the OA Bulletin, owing to the gradual reduction in contributions and the disproportionate amount of time spent by a few people in extracting those contributions.

It is our intention to investigate ways in which we could broaden the appeal of this publication. These could include making it ‘glossy’, incorporating more photographs, cutting the frequency to one edition per annum, and so on. If any reader would like to join a panel discussion on this important topic, please inform the President.

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Moving in n New OA Club President Alan Philpott writes his first notes – including a ‘philpotted’ biography – and looks forward to an exciting term in office

A Thank You I must start these notes by recording my thanks and those of the entire Old Albanian Club to my predecessor Stephen Burgess, for his sterling work during six years in office, representing by far the longest term served by any President of the OA Club. At my first Committee meeting as President, I was advised that the President’s Trophy for 2012 was due to be awarded and it may come as no surprise that I decided this was the occasion at which to recognise Stephen who, happily, was present at the meeting.

I was hoping he might have filled the Cup with port but I suppose that will have to wait for another time. More seriously, we all owe Stephen for his dedication to the office during a time of great change in the relationship between the School and the Club, change that has been very beneficial to the Club.

Potted Biography Well, a philpotted biography perhaps.

Those readers who know me will do so mainly through my long association with the OA Cricket Club. I just counted the years of member ship of the OACC and it seems to come to 50, there must be a mistake somewhere. However, it is true and I can honestly say that I have always enjoyed my various roles in the club, even as captain of the Sunday seconds taking nine men to some unknown location in

The new President North London. In contrast to that, I was lucky enough to captain the First XI at Harpenden on the day on which Peter Dew took two separate hat-tricks in a famous victory and it is still difficult to imagine a much better feeling than that. Also I served as Secretary of the Old Albanian Club for five years in the 1980s, before moving to the United States – of which more later.

Most readers will not know that I have long family connections with the School.

My uncle had been there before the war, my cousin followed, and my mother decided that St Albans would be the place for me on the basis that I would join the choir and she could attend the Carol Service. Well, she did so but regrettably I could not and still cannot sing so the choir was not for me. A more recent claim to fame - although now over 20 years ago – is that my eldest daughter Anna was in the first intake of girls to the sixth form, followed soon after by my second daughter Angela.

Having retired from international

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banking, I accepted an invitation to set up a charity for the preservation of endangered big cats. We are based in Smarden in Kent, and are not open to the public although we hold occasional Open Days. There are more than 50 cats on site (where the photo was taken by the way), and if there are any budding conservationists or veterinarians reading this who would like to visit, do please contact me.

meet up with OAs in my ports of call, and as to the ladies, I will be discussing with Livia in the Development Office and even with my daughters how we can go about increasing their involvement. I did bring daughter Anna as my guest to the Joint Schools’ Concert recently, a modest but encouraging start.

Sports Clubs The Rugby Club has in this past season continued its hugely successful recent Looking Forward performances, and at the time At this time I felt it would be of writing are standing in appropriate to look forward At this time I fifth place in National League to ways in which I could 1. We are all very proud of mark my presidency. Having felt it would be their record gained through had a career in the City and playing attractive rugby. having OA daughters, I will appropriate to Personally I am looking be doing my bit during this forward to the now famous year of office to assist in the look forward to St George’s Day Lunch (on networking opportunities and 26th April) followed the next in promoting the role of ladies ways in which I day by all the festivities in the Club. I was particularly connected with the last sorry to have missed the could mark my home game of the season. networking drinks event Of course these events will on 21st March at Corney & presidency have passed by the time you Barrow, one of my old haunts read these notes, by which from years ago. That day I time hopefully the President was flying to the USA to spend time with will have recovered from the flag waving daughter Angela on a road trip in Texas. and singing (but see earlier under ‘Potted We took a pit stop during the journey at Biography’). At the time the Rugby Club West, not far from Waco, the scene of the closes its season, the Cricket Club will dreadful ammonia plant explosion that be whitening their boots and pads at the happened just as I was sitting down to start of their season. Let’s hope for better prepare these notes. weather than last year, which saw a record I am looking forward to the events later number of games cancelled in a season in this year such as the Annual Dinner, the Herts League – by the end of June! now an informal themed supper superbly The Tennis Club has obtained planning hosted at the School. Also there will be a permission for its new floodlights and these networking event in November. together with the refurbishment of the During my overseas travels I will try courts will be a great boost to a thriving

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New Event at Woollams President’s Champagne Afternoon Tea Saturday 3rd August 2013 at 5.00pm It’s not easy to fit another event into the Woollams calendar but I am intending to give it a try. So here goes. Hopefully many of you who are guests at the President’s lunch party on Sunday 9 June may be able to return. This time there will be a cost! One of my ideas is that we can watch the second innings and the end of a game of cricket instead of leaving after a lunch very often without seeing both sides bat. I am as guilty of this as anyone. The menu (subject to confirmation) will be:

and dynamic club. The Golf Club is now captained by John Smith and is looking forward to the season that starts on 27th April, the winter warm-up in March having proved to be wintry rather than warm.

There are also the shooting, fishing and football playing OAs whom I shall seek out during my tenure of office.

Life Members In addition to my pleasure of awarding the President’s Trophy to Stephen Burgess at my first Committee Meeting, I am delighted to inform the membership that we have two new Life members (and we have very few) elected at the same meeting. These are Stephen Burgess, for his services as President, and Nick Barnes for his services over many years both to the Club and to the Old Albanian Sports Association.

More Thank Yous It’s really too soon to me to say thank you. However I know I have already relied on and will be relying on such as David

l Welcome glass of champagne l A slice of beef or salmon wellington l Selection of sandwiches l Scones with clotted cream and jam l Selection of pastries and cakes l English Breakfast or Earl Grey tea Price: £17.50 per person The location will be the Sportsmen’s bar (after the teams have taken their tea), hopefully spilling out onto to the terrace if the weather permits.

Bookings please to Alan Philpott by email or to 07939 287573/01992 584862

Buxton, Brian Sullman Nick Barnes and Craig Tallents at OA Sport. Also at OA Sport Andy-Mills Baker has put in an amazing amount of work as Chairman, from which position he is standing down and he will be sorely missed.

Conclusion I am looking forward to working with the School and in particular the Headmaster Andrew Grant, the Bursar Derek Todd, Jane Galloway and Sue Barnes in the office, and with Livia King and (on her return) with Kate Le Sueur. As ever I remember the work carried out by Nigel Cartwright and Jane Knighton to ensure sponsorship and funding for both the Rugby and Cricket Clubs.

I can only repeat Stephen’s last message, the need for new blood, younger people to take the Club forward. We have some but our 80/20 is the wrong way round and this needs to be reversed!

Alan Philpott President, Old Albanian Club

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Headmaster’s Notes

Building on success

homes in Aquis Court which had been the temporary home of the linguists for the n Headmaster Andrew Grant – who previous term. has recently announced his impending As we pause for breath in what has retirement – looks back with satisfaction been the most extraordinarily hyperactive on the conclusion of an ambitious building period of development in the School’s programme for the School history, it is hard to believe that barely two years have elapsed since former Chairman In the autumn term we set of Governors Ian Jennings cut the first turf what was certainly a new to begin the building of the Sports Centre. record for the School, and The new facilities have already become probably unmatched in the part of normal life; the new Refectory, whole of the UK, for opening in particular has proved a civilised and new buildings, averaging one per month if civilising venue for meals and movement we count the Sixth Form Centre and the around the site has become much easier rest of the main Aquis Court building as with the opening up of the main access two. (the “cinder path”) between Aquis Court Both the formal opening and the rest of the School. events were very successful.

The move of Reception to Duncan Goodhew gave Duncan Aquis Court, too, has been exceptionally good value judged a success. as Guest of Honour for the Goodhew gave One of the curious things opening of the Sports Centre about schools, though, is and was very generous with exceptionally that last September’s new his time, much of it spent arrivals, and still more, next with pupils in the pool. So, good value as September’s, will never have too, indeed, was James Butler, known a St Albans School who gave a wonderfully droll Guest of Honour that does not have Aquis address at the opening of the Court or a state-of-the-art Centre for the Visual Arts. for the opening of Sports Centre and, to them, In the spring term, we the Refectory is simply part saw no immediate reason to the Sports Centre of the normal state of affairs. slacken off and maintained Thus do epoch-making that rate of building-opening changes become ordinary until half term with another constructional overnight. The latest development has, and logistical miracle pulled off over the of course, freed up a great deal of space Christmas holiday, with the new Refectory in the Hall and, even without further and the accommodation for the Modern refurbishment, has improved conditions Languages Faculty on the site of the old considerably not only for speakers at gym ready for occupation on the first day assemblies and lectures, but also for the of term, and the Classics and Economics Music Department in what now enjoys departments moving into their permanent the prestige of being an “All Steinway

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School”. Our musicians will no longer have to compete with refrigerators turning themselves noisily on and off.

Not that those inconveniences impinged on the excellence of the monumental autumn production of Les Misérables, which was, quite simply, the finest, most professional School production I have seen in what is now quite a long career in education. I don’t think I’m deluding myself in thinking that it could have transferred to the West End with no allowances made or needed: there was not a weak voice in the company, every impossible note was nailed, the acting had absolute commitment and conviction that would put many a professional company to shame and everyone involved in it, especially the Directors, Messrs Bhantoa and Stout, could be proud of their achievement.

That wasn’t quite the end of our singers’ commitments for the term, of course, tired though they were, and they did well to rise

to the occasion of the two Carol Services that traditionally close our autumn term – this time featuring, among the traditional favourites, some very un-traditional Christmas music, with blues and calypso rhythms making an appearance.

The sporting highlight of the autumn term had to be the Intermediate crosscountry team’s hat-trick in the English Schools Cup. Harrison Pyrke, in third place, was our top-placed runner, and the team had all six among the first thirty of 130 runners, scoring 49 points, 50 points ahead of Shrewsbury School in second place. The Cup has never been won by the same school three years in succession before.

This followed hard on the heels of St Albans’ domination of the Georgetown Prep Classic in Maryland USA reported in the last Bulletin. Our leading senior runner, Robbie Lightowler, subsequently won the world junior Biathle championship in Dubai. The squad opened their account for 2013 with a win for the U15s in the

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AAA county championships, an individual a fine Joint Schools’ Concert in the silver for Mark Pearce in the U17 race and Abbey, offering Fauré’s Requiem and wins for Ellie Hunt in the girls’ U17 race a challenging programme of works by and Lizzie Bird in the U20s. All St Albans Rutter, Chilcott and Tavener, to the House runners were selected to represent the Music Competition featuring ensembles, county in the National Championships and rock bands and the House Song. In earlier Lizzie was selected to run for England in a years, the latter event was characterised home international. more by enthusiasm than musicianship, The senior squad then took victory and it would be fair to say that the latter for the tenth time in the King Henry has increased exponentially, but not at the VIII relays at Coventry – expense of the former. the de facto national relay In between, we had an championship. The B team Swimming outstanding Jazz concert rubbed it in by taking fourth featuring some performances place ahead of all but three achieved a new whose remarkable maturity of the 48 teams competing belied the youth of the (one of them, of course, our prominence, with performers, and a rare own A team) and the girls performance of Bolling’s took bronze. The School has the new pool Concerto for Classical a record in this event which Guitar and Jazz Piano by a it is difficult to see ever being hosting our first professional trio including surpassed. two of our own teachers.

In rugby, honours went to inter-schools gala Swimming achieved a new the U14s, who triumphed over prominence, with the new Watford Grammar in the final to considerable pool hosting our first interof the inaugural Hertfordshire schools gala to considerable Schools County Cup, played acclaim acclaim. under floodlights at the OA In hockey, the First rugby club. The First XV, XI made something of a playing St Columba’s in the senior final speciality of coming from a long way immediately afterwards, were sadly unable behind at half time to salvage a draw and to emulate them, but nevertheless enjoyed one wonders at what might have been a far more successful season than would if they had somehow learnt the trick of have been predicted in September. starting faster.

By January, all Upper Sixth students Football, meanwhile, had a successful applying to university this year had their season, culminating in a District UCAS applications in, and 85% of them had Championship for the U16s and for the already received offers, among them 16 for First XI against Verulam, where they either Oxford or Cambridge. retained their title under floodlights Over the spring term there was some at Clarence Park. This was the second exceptionally fine music to be heard final that had had to be held over from in and around School, ranging from the previous term and only 24 hours

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Acquis Court: one of three new buildings opened during Autumn term earlier, the same team had been playing against Haberdashers’ in the final of the Independent Schools Football Association’s LB Cup, held at Barnet FC’s Underhill ground. That fixture they lost on penalties, largely owing to the fact that they had not played a match together for two months.

The Athletics season opened with the Senior team retaining the District Championship trophy for the fourth year in a row and we fielded an increased number of girls, with Lizzie Burley, Izzy Thompson, Kat Butler and Ellie Hunt all making and/ or winning the finals in their respective events.

After three County League meets both the U13 and U15 teams find themselves fourth in the table, which will qualify them for a place in the League final if they can fend off the challenges from Hitchin and Richard Hale schools. Meanwhile, in the ESAA Track & Field Cup the Junior team

finished third overall and has progressed to the regional final.

Despite some indifferent weather, the Cricket season is now well under way with wins for the First XI against QE Barnet and Bancroft’s School, but a loss in the local derby against Haberdashers’.

Finally, as many of you will by now know from the online newsletter sent out

by Livia King from the Foundation Office earlier this term, I shall be retiring from the Headship of St Albans School at the end of August 2014 (the letter is reproduced in full on page 12 – Ed). It has been a great privilege to lead a great School, but that after what will then be 21 years and at the end of an unprecedented period of development, it seems to me the right time to move on, whilst assuring you that I shall not be winding down gently over the next year!

Andrew Grant Headmaster

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A letter from the Headmaster I am writing to let you know of my decision to retire from the Headmastership of St Albans School with effect from 31 August 2014. The Governors will shortly be beginning the process for the recruitment of my successor and advertisements for the post will be appearing in the next couple of weeks.

By the end of the next academic year, I shall have been here for 21 years, which is somewhat more than a third of my life and considerably more than half of my professional career.

Despite what some may suspect, this is not the result of inertia or lack of opportunity, but of a positive choice; like my predecessors, all of whom last century ended their careers at St Albans, I have simply never felt that there is anywhere else I would rather be; nowhere else I would have wanted my own children educated; no pupil, parent or alumni body I would swap for those of St Albans and no one I would rather work with than my St Albans colleagues and governors.

It has been an enormous privilege: St Albans has provided plenty of new challenges and sufficient opportunities for reinvention for the job never to become stale.

We have met all – perhaps rather more than all – the targets I identified when I arrived back in 1993: the School roll is at its highest-ever; academic results are at a sustained level of excellence; sport, the performing and creative arts and the School’s extra-curricular life likewise, and I am sure you would agree with me that the students who leave us each year are young men and women of whom any School, and any parents, would be proud.

We have just come to a natural hiatus in a phase of prodigiously intense development, which began ten years ago with the opening of the Woollam Playing Fields and has come to a climax over the past 12 months with the opening of the Sports Centre; Sixth Form Centre; Centre for the Visual Arts; Refectory and Languages Faculty. There was a period last autumn term when we were opening, on average, one new building per month.

That is certainly not to say there is nothing left to do, or that St Albans School will not go on to still greater heights, but this brief moment, as we pause for breath, seems to me the right moment to step aside, whilst more people might, I hope, still be inclined to ask, “Why is he going?” than “When is he going?”

You would, I think, be hard put to find a better academic day school than St Albans, but it is in the nature of progress that each step forward brings another target up over the horizon and the long-term Development Plan will leave plenty to occupy my successor.

Meanwhile, I have absolutely no intention of handing over anything other than the highest standards for him or her to measure up to and build on, and you may be assured I shall not be winding down gently over the next four terms!

Andrew Grant

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O A U P D AT E

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OA Lodge

Farewell, old friends

year was particularly poignant as the Lodge Chaplain and Jonathan’s n As he welcomes a new Master, father, Richard Wedgbury, had sadly OA Lodge Assistant Secretary John died just a few weeks before the Williams also bids farewell to three of meeting. the Lodge’s venerable members Following his installation, Mark appointed the officers for his year The Lodge year commenced as and this year there were a number usual at the Installation meeting of notable changes. Peter Wadeheld on Saturday 11th May when Wright was appointed Chaplain the new Master of the Lodge, Mark and Roger Shrimplin as the new Pedroz was installed in the Chair Secretary with the out-going by the outgoing Master, Jonathan Secretary, John Williams becoming Wedgbury assisted by the Immediate the Assistant Secretary. The new Past Master, Ian Parker and Richard Director of Ceremonies, taking Denney. Mark has been Head of on the role he last occupied some English at the School for 15 years twenty years ago was Colin Harris, and also works extensively the Provincial Grand with the Cambridge Master for Hertfordshire.

Examination Boards.

Colin is retiring as PGM He was educated at this summer after ten Merchant Taylors’ School years in the role. The outthanks to an earlier going DC, Dick Knifton Assisted Places scheme was most appropriately and was a scholar of Colin Harris, appointed Charity Steward Trinity College, Cambridge, Provincial Grand of the Lodge – he is of where he studied English Master course already serving and German literature, as the Provincial Grand enjoying an exchange year in Charity Steward. At the dinner in Heidelberg. He came to St Albans the School pavilion at Woollams after teaching at Dauntsey’s and following the meeting, the Deputy Ampleforth, where he helped to run PGM (and PGM designate) Paul the theatre. He is looking forward Gower, who was representing the to his year in the Chair, as Masonry Province, announced that he would provides him with an outlet for his be appointing Dick Knifton as an theatrical and esoteric interests as Assistant Provincial Grand Master, well as excellent companionship, and the newly appointed Lodge and a new network of friends. Prior Assistant Director of Ceremonies, to the installation of the new Master, Jay Patel as Provincial Senior the outgoing Master always thanks Grand Warden at the Provincial the officers individually for their Meeting to be held at Freemasons’ assistance during his year. This Hall in London in September.

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Dick was introduced into and troop carriers, night Freemasonry by his fatherand day, bound for the D in-law and initiated into Day assault in Normandy. the Old Albanian Lodge in After a period of time 1986 becoming master in working as a motorcycle 2000. Prior to his present despatch rider for the fire appointment as Provincial brigade, he joined the Grand Charity Steward, Dick Knifton, RAF just after the end Dick served actively in the Assistant Provincial of WW2 and travelled to province for two years as Grand Master India and the Far East.

Provincial Junior Grand Designate The camaraderie and Deacon. friendship he encountered The Lodge has been in the RAF had a lasting saddened this year by the recent influence on him. On returning to deaths of three members. On ‘Blighty’ in his mid twenties, with 31st December David Pitcher died no qualifications to his name, he after a long valiant fight against took a course leading to qualification leukaemia, and I am indebted to as an Associate of the Royal Dr Max Pitcher for this obituary of Institute of Chartered Surveyors. his father. David, who was a Grand He joined ICI and climbed through Officer (a member of Grand Lodge), the ranks, eventually to become joined the Lodge in 2005, when his Estates Manager of the 65 acre son Max was Junior Warden. Born Plastics Division HQ in Welwyn in Aylesbury in 1928, the son of a Garden City. He helped many a farmer, David and his older sister bright young executive and scientist lost their mother when he was with relocation as well as fixed just 10 days old. Eventually their up the apprentices with hostel father found it impossible to cope accommodation and as a result won with managing the farm as well as many friends from many different looking after his two young children backgrounds. and after David was eight years old, Mindful of his turbulent youth, he was brought up in Lewes, Sussex, he had a strong desire to give by his father’s housekeeper. David something back to those less was a real character and always fortunate than himself and became had a love for mischief, so perhaps a non-executive director on the it was of little surprise that he was National Board of the Young Men’s expelled from school at the age Christian Association, or YMCA. of 14! He recounted many tales of Freemasonry was another wartime life on the Sussex Coast, institution dear to his heart, of watching the Battle of Britain in which he was member for almost 60 the skies above and hearing the years. This brought out the essence constant rumble of tanks, artillery of his personality characterised by

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longstanding and loyal friendships, mutual support, charitable works and honesty, bound together with a sense of common purpose. And all this delivered with a cheeky grin, a wry sense of humour and an ability to make fun of himself. His longlost Uncle Phil Pitcher, a retired tea planter and Mason from Ceylon, had been traced to the Isle of Wight.

They formed a strong bond and thus four generations of Pitchers in Ceylon Lodge were perpetuated.

His crowning achievements were the appointment as President of the Commonwealth Lodges Association in the1970’s and as a Grand Officer in 2002, of which he was very proud.

His self-deprecating title of ‘Grand Dwarf’ epitomised his character in so many ways. As the father of two

boys at St Albans School, he was a regular visitor to and subsequently member of the Old Albanian Lodge, which he regarded as the most vibrant in Hertfordshire.

Sadly, about two years ago this great character with such a zest for life developed acute leukaemia.

At diagnosis, and after learning of his limited prognosis, it was absolutely typical of David to announce brightly on the telephone to an enquirer “I’m for the chop, my dear”. He promptly signed up for a clinical trial of unlicensed chemotherapy at Northwick Park hospital to try and benefit future patients suffering with the condition rather than himself. He was the ultimate stoic, and didn’t let the weekly blood transfusions

David Pitcher (on the right) listening to son Max playing

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stop him attending his Masonic Lodge meetings, and was known to jump straight into a taxi within minutes of completion, to take himself, regalia in hand to Grand Lodge, affectionately named by him as The Kremlin, in central London. In between treatments and transfusions, and the seemingly endless hospital visits, the friendship and camaraderie he relished with his fellow fly fishers in Latimer and the solace of the lakeside setting gave him the peace and escape he needed.

Through membership of the Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity, he continued to thrill disadvantaged and handicapped children by helping them to land a Latimer trout despite his illness.

David suffered from a particularly severe pneumonia with respiratory failure in May last year and, sensing that his failure to respond promptly to antibiotics could indicate that a potentially quick and dignified exit from this world was looming, he decided to secure this opportunity by stopping all treatment.

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David Pitcher at the Vale of Aylesbury Hunt on Boxing Day 2012 Having been given a few hours to live he somehow managed to rally against the odds, aided and abetted by many visitors bearing gin and tonic to ease his suffering! He was later transferred to the Hospice of St Francis in Berkhamsted in June, where on arrival he clearly stated his objective was to die as quickly as possible.

The holistic care he received, including hot Jacuzzi baths, further promoted his resilience however, and changed his attitude towards improving the last chapter of life. During this time, his bone marrow went into an unexpected remission and he recovered, not requiring any hospital treatment or transfusions for four months. Weak and emaciated, he was discharged from the hospice after one month to paradoxically enjoy a new lease of life. He amazed his doubters by returning home to independent living in WGC, driving his car to do

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his own shopping and even catching best Christmas he had ever had. further trout in Latimer on flies he He went to the Vale of Aylesbury had tied himself until the end of the Hunt on Boxing Day, a spectacle he season in October. would have enjoyed as a boy with This brief respite from illness his father. Septicaemia suddenly enabled him to go on holiday to overwhelmed him four days later, Normandy in September where he having driven to the shops and was visibly moved by the sights cooked himself an evening meal of the D Day landing just the day before. He beaches and numerous was totally ready and Commonwealth Graves. fearless for his final He was able to see journey and his family for the first time the were at his bedside remaining evidence of when he died. what had been going On 4th April Richard on the other side of the Wedgbury (OA 1961), English channel from the Lodge Chaplain, where he had grown and father of the up in Sussex, 70 years Worshipful Master, earlier. He made full sadly died after a use of his time before lengthy battle with the leukaemia relapsed lung cancer. Richard in October. Having was initiated into the enjoyed a temporary Lodge in March 1989 reprieve, he wanted with his father Clifford to fight the condition Wedgbury in the chair. again and agreed to He then progressed further chemotherapy. through the usual He still regularly offices until he was attended Masonic Richard Wedgbury in his installed as Master Lodge meetings and Masonic regalia at the in 1996. After his even managed to nip January meeting of the Mastership, he became out to the local cinema Lodge Lodge Almoner and to watch the latest regularly visited older James Bond film Skyfall whilst members such as Charles Bloxham having his chemo as an inpatient. and Don Kiff. Richard was appointed After a two-week spell in hospital to active rank in Hertfordshire he was discharged in time to spend as a Provincial Grand Standard Christmas with his son Max and Bearer in 2003, and much enjoyed family. He was wined and dined and, his year escorting the Provincial as ever, he remained the life and Grand Master and Deputy PGM to soul of the party. He said it was the the installation meetings of other

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Lodges. In 2008 he received a further promotion to Past Provincial Grand Superintendant of Works. Richard lived at Doddington in for many years and thus was also very active with Masonry in Cambridgeshire, joining a considerable number of Chapters – Royal Arch and Rose Croix to mention just two.

Richard was born in St Albans in 1945 and grew up in Harpenden. He had a happy childhood with loving parents and a younger brother and sister. I first met him at the age of eight at Manland Primary School in Harpenden. After the eleven-plus we both won places at St Albans School. When Richard was asked at his interview with the Head Master, W T Marsh, what he wanted to do in life, Richard replied that he wanted to become a chef and indeed, he did eventually spend his working life in catering. At School he developed a life-long love of history and was always delighted to be in the Abbey Gateway. Richard had to leave School early, towards the end of our fourth year because his family moved to Fulbourn, near Cambridge, and he completed his school education at Cambridge School for Boys. There he used to cycle miles to school and after school go fishing, which became a passion he enjoyed for the rest of his life. At school he also somehow managed to fit in being a music impresario, persuading Van Morrison to play at a concert; and spending time with Pink Floyd listening to them rehearse.

After leaving school, Richard followed his long-held ambition and enrolled at Westminster Catering College. After graduating, one of his early jobs was as a Chef in a Soho restaurant. Subsequently he managed the Waterend Barn in St Albans and later the Cambridge Arts Theatre. He then moved to catering consultancy with a number of companies, several of which merged or were taken over – Bateman, Midland, Grand Met, Compass and Fairfield. Latterly Richard started his own successful catering Consultancy - Alexander Jon Richardson & Associates – which provides expert advice primarily for Schools, Colleges and Universities in the management of their catering departments. In his role as Chairman of the FCSI - The Foodservice Consultants Society International – a couple of years ago, he much enjoyed a tour with Prue Leith, evaluating school catering in Scandinavian countries.

Richard was happily married to Marilyn for almost 35 years and had two sons, in addition to Richard’s son and daughter from a previous marriage. Together they hosted many dinners and parties at home, something they both enjoyed greatly. At the Lodge meeting in January – the last one he was well enough to attend - Richard was delighted to witness his eldest son Andrew being initiated into the Lodge by the Worshipful Master, his brother Jon. On 13th May, the most senior

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Ted Bunn, Senior Past Master of the Lodge Past Master of the Lodge Ted Bunn (OA’41) died after a short illness at the age of 89. Edward John Bunn, always known as ‘Ted’, was initiated into the Lodge in 1951 and then progressed through the usual offices until he was installed as Master in 1963. After his Mastership he served in a variety of offices and was appointed to active rank in Hertfordshire as a Provincial Grand Steward – and much enjoyed his ‘active’ year. Later he received a further promotion to Past Provincial Grand Superintendant of Works Ted was a stalwart of the Lodge, rarely missing a meeting, and despite his seniority he was very unassuming – a lovely man. He was last present at the meeting in January this year, but missed the March meeting because he did not feel fit enough to attempt the stairs.

Ted was born in Spain where his grandfather owned a mine and his father had an engineering works and

garage in Malaga. His grandfather was a Mason and was a founding member of Gibraltar Lodge. A few years ago I accompanied Ted to a meeting of Gibraltar Lodge which had relocated to London, where Ted was delighted to be presented with his grandfather’s Founders’ Jewel. In 1934 at the age of ten, Ted was packed off to boarding school in Reading, a three-day journey from Spain in those days. However with the outbreak of the civil war in Spain in 1936, his family lost everything and had to return to England, settling in St Albans where Ted became a day boy at St Albans School.

Ted left School in 1941 to take up an apprenticeship with Dickinson and Adams Engineering until he was subsequently called up to serve in REME at the end of the war.

After National Service he joined Electrolux where he spent the majority of his career as a manager but when his job was eventually relocated to the north, he and his family did not wish to uproot and leave St Albans, and so he joined Sanyo where he worked until he retired, aged 65. Ted met his future wife Rona at a Motor Engineers’ dinner in Harpenden Public Hall and they married in 1952 and raised two daughters, Mary and Alison.

Unfortunately Mary caught polio aged two and is partially disabled.

They delighted in their three grand daughters, all of whom did very well academically. In 1990 Ted suffered a heart attack and 18

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Membership Secretary’s Notes months later had a triple bypass operation, later being fitted with a pacemaker and defibrillator. Ted and Rona celebrated their Diamond wedding anniversary last year and were delighted to receive a card from the Queen. Ted supported the School all his life and always went to the Foundation Day service in the Abbey – where both he and his wife had been confirmed.

The Lodge has been delighted by the progress being made in the refurbishment of the Bridge of Sighs. The restoration project has been organised by Iain Thompson, the Estates Bursar at the School, and funded by the Lodge, hopefully the first of a number of such projects to restore masonry around the School to as near its original condition as possible where known,

or to replace it.

The Lodge meets only five times a year on the second Saturdays in January, March, May and September and the first Saturday in November. All those connected with the School, including fathers of past or present pupils are welcome to apply for membership, for which purpose the first approach should be to any Lodge member, the Secretary as below; or Nigel WoodSmith or Mark Pedroz at the School. Members of other Lodges, be they OAs, parents of past or present pupils, staff or Governors are encouraged to visit the Lodge whenever they wish, and the Secretary or Assistant Secretary will be delighted to hear from them.

John Williams Lodge Assistant Secretary

Send your stories n Membership Secretary Roger Cook underlines our plea to all members for their stories, anecdotes, reminiscences and photos

Congratulations and best wishes to Kate Le Sueur who has recently had a son. Kate has impressed everyone with her work in establishing and running the School Development office during recent years. We all hope that, in due course, she will return to continue the work.

Mike Darby informs me that he was in the picture ‘from the archives’ in the June 2010 bulletin described as the School staff in undated photo from the 1970s. It was taken in May 1973.

Congratulations to OA Rugby, who have achieved fifth position,

Notes for budding authors l Subject matter Absolutely anything you think would be of interest to fellow OAs, from anecdotes and recollections of your schooldays to the events and experiences over the intervening years. Your contribution can be in any form, from a letter or article to a snippet of news or a simple photo caption, and can be submitted electronically via e-mail or in hard copy format by post to the address on page 2.

The restored Abbey gateway gargoyle

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after their promotion, in League 1. The game against Rosslyn Park, which the OAs won, was, despite the rain, an excellent game of rugby.

Recently, the flow of letters and articles from our readers has slowed up: I believe that everyone has a reminiscence, letter, or photograph that would be of interest to other OAs. Why not send it in!

Roger Cook Membership Secretary

l Length There is no limit to length, but as a guide a page in the ‘Bulletin’ is around 450 words. Please note that we reserve the right to edit the text as appropriate. l Photos Photographs on any subject are always welcome. They can be submitted either electronically (preferably in JPG format) or in hard copy format to the address below.

Once scanned, the originals will be returned to the sender. Both colour and black and white photos are acceptable, as the ‘Bulletin’ is printed in mono but appears online in full colour.

Please send your contributions to: Nick Chappin, Editor Post: 18 The Pleasance, Harpenden, Herts AL5 3NA Email: nick@chappin.co.uk

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OA GAZETTE

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De Fortunis Albanorum l Raymond Nash (57) has created a website that tells the story of the Tavenor, a prototype sportsracing car from the 1960s that was designed, built and raced by him.

Motoring enthusiasts can find the site at www.tavenor.me.uk l Martin G Smith (60) received a knighthood in the New Year Honours List in recognition of his philanthropy across education, science and the arts. Martin, who studied physics at St Edmund Hall, Oxford in the 1960s, has supported a wide range of causes including the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment at Oxford, the Orchestra of the Age of the Enlightenment, English National Opera, the Science Museum and the Becket Collection of musical instruments at the Royal Academy of Music. l Peter Gimber (69) was awarded an OBE in 2012 for services to local government. Peter left his role as manager of safe and sustainable travel for Devon County Council in November 2011 after 33 years’ service. As a former secondary school teacher, Peter’s first instincts drew him to the challenge of effective communication and education to reduce risky behaviour in young people. Throughout the 1970s and 80s he played a part nationally in improving how this work was carried out. In the late 1980s Peter was involved in dialogue that challenged the assumption

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OA BULLETIN JULY 2013

that children and child behaviour should be the focus of road safety initiatives, and instead put the spotlight on adult drivers and riders. l Yann Lovelock (57) was awarded a BEM in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June 2012 for his work in encouraging community cohesion and interfaith relations in the West Midlands. l Miles Hudson (87) published his first novel in March. He was already a published author of physics textbooks for schools, but The Cricketer’s Corpse is his first foray into fiction. Set in Durham, he describes it as “a classic whodunnit type detective story, with a few weird characters thrown in”. The launch was a serialisation in real time over eight days, so readers could download each section to their e-reader device and follow the action as the investigation happened.

l Peter Stratton (46) died on 29th December 2012. Peter had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease, and he passed away peacefully in hospital. A brief obituary appears below. l Howard Smith (57) passed away peacefully in his sleep at home in St Albans on 18th June 2013 following a brave three-year battle against prostrate cancer. l Lt Commander John J B McDonald (71) died in 2012.

Obituary l Peter Donald Stratton

aged 84. He played both cricket and rugby at the School, and left in 1946 for his National Service with the Royal Engineers. He was sent to Singapore where he took charge of Japanese prisoners-of-war. His future wife, Jean, was secretary to Baumgartner, the school bursar and, later, a secretary at Ottaways. They celebrated their diamond wedding last summer.

Peter, with Jean’s help, became the landlord of The Tin Pot at Gustard Wood in 1963 and remained there for 29 years before he and Jean retired to Saffron Walden. He played some rugby for the OAs and was a keen golfer.

Peter died on 29th December 2012,

From the Archive

Deaths It is with regret that the following deaths are announced: l L W Brook (29) died earlier this year. l E J Bunn (41) died in June 2013. l Mike Higson (41) died on 25 April. He was the older brother of Don Higson (45) who now lives in Australia.

Can anyone name any of these School Hockey XI players from the 1970s?

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OA LETTERS

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Oxbridge bound n David Browne (59) and Michael Millard (with the help of a copy of The Albanian from 1960) help us solve the mystery of the people in the archive photo from the last edition: rather than being prefects, the young men had had all gained awards from Oxford or Cambridge that year

Michael Millard writes from Coventry: I am enclosing a copy of the archive photograph that appeared in the latest copy of the OA Bulletin. As you will see from the page opposite, the young men in the picture had all gained awards from Oxford or Cambridge; in fact, it appears that only seven were prefects in the spring and summer terms of that year (1960).

I have a number of copies of The Albanian; this one happened to be available (i.e. not in the loft!) as Graham Dow was a vicar in Coventry during the eighties.

Ultimately he became Bishop of Carlisle, a position from which he retired a few years ago.

I know no-one else in the photo but I wonder if I knew the father of M Schofield. Scruffy got married before the war, probably in 1938.

That he should beget a son about four years later is entirely possible – so the dates fit. If that son had the brains to gain a Major Scholarship to St Johns then the genes fit also. I wonder if anyone knows the answer to my implied query?

T D Bamford: Open Scholarship in History at University College, Oxford M G Bevan: Open Exhibition in History at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge M W Church: Edwin Jones Scholarship in Modern Languages at Jesus College, Oxford M Crampin: Open Scholarship in Mathematics at Christ Church, Oxford G G Dow: Open Scholarship in Natural Science at The Queen’s College, Oxford R E Ferneyhough: Rous Scholarship in History at Pembroke College, Oxford R G Hollis: Open Exhibition in Natural Science at Pembroke College, Cambridge A E Mounter: Open Scholarship in Natural Science at Christ Church, Oxford M C Newell: Open Exhibition in English at Magdalene College, Cambridge R M O’Connor: Open Minor Scholarship in Classics at Trinity College, Cambridge M Schofield: Open Major Scholarship (Henry Arthur Thomas) in Classics at St John’s College, Cambridge J R Treleaven: Open Exhibition in Natural Science at Trinity Hall, Cambridge

David Browne writes: In case anyone has not identified the ‘From the archive’ photo in the December Bulletin, they are not prefects, as some of them were not

OA BULLETIN JULY 2013

and they are a mixture of years.

They are (left to right): Back: Raymond O’Connor and Mike Crampin Middle row: Tony Mounter, Mike Newell (with the ears), Malcolm Bevan and Michael Church Front: Dick Hollis, Terry Bamford, Jack Treleaven (I think – I sat next to him in the choir – but I have my doubts on this one), Roger Ferneyhough (pay attention, boy), Michael Schofield and Graham Dow. Some luminaries here indeed- a film director, arts critic, professor of classics and Bishop of Carlisle!

Tempus fugit n Peter Peckham (43) writes from New Plymouth in New Zealand with his memories of school, and in particular the charismatic housemaster and RAF pilot Christopher Bradley Payne who lost his life in WW2

As 10 years a naval officer and then the rest of my life a dairy farmer and owner, I feel my years of Latin and French have not played even a minor part in my life. My time at St Albans School was spent first

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Rugby as a boarder at Woollams and then School House, and finally Shirley with Bill Franklin, Fred Deamer and Bill Ashton – what happened to him?

The late Ernie Nightingale would be sorely peeved being referred to as a maths teacher. He was a physics teacher and wrote two of the textbooks we used in the then ‘New’ science block, including ‘Heat, Light & Sound’. Wishart was the chemistry teacher.

I agree that Kate has made a vast difference to the way in which the OA association is progressing.

In fact, through her I learnt of the School First XV’s visit down under.

My wife and I enjoyed meeting the young men in Rarotonga, and was thrilled to be awarded my First XV shirt 1943 – I slept the night in it!

In 2 Upper, Christopher Bradley Payne was our housemaster in Woollams and my form master the next year in 3A. What can I say in addition to what many have said already? That gentle giant who used

to come into the junior dorm and we’d all lay into him and have him on the ground. Finally, with a big roar he threw us all away with a big smile on his face. Pushing his old MG with a long bonnet and a resistance to starting easily – then out of the gate and down the hill with a roar. How proud we were when he was commissioned and flying, and how downcast we were at news of his death. I named my son Christopher when he and his twin Penny were born in September 1948, and I notice that in a list of donations Lt Col (Ret) J E T Hoare DFC (OA 45) has made a donation in memory of Christopher Bradley Payne. I wonder how this donation will be used in honouring that lovely gallant man: a scholarship?

A bust? Something to remind us of that big happy man with a wonky leg who inspired so may of our own generation? I could probably stump up a bit!

OA SPORT

OA LETTERS

OA BULLETIN JULY 2013

High five n With an impressive fifth place finish, OA Rugby Chairman Rory Davis looks back on a highly successful start to life among English rugby’s elite

The Old Albanians stated at the start of this season that they had not forced their way into National One just to make up the numbers but to contribute meaningfully, to learn the ways of this senior league and to demonstrate a high level of skill and commitment. These aims were achieved beyond the aspirations of most involved with the club and finishing in fifth place reflects massive credit on coaching staff, players and administrators for a well-planned and professionally executed campaign.

To be placed, for the first time, among the top 40 clubs in the land was an achievement which carried to fruition the hard work and clearsighted ambition of Director of Rugby James Shanahan who set about helping the club set the bar even higher by thriving in National One. Eight months or so of astute work ensured this was not a vain hope.

The club was only too aware of the sort of company they were now to associate with. Rugby giants Blackheath, Coventry, Fylde, Richmond and Rosslyn Park had graced the history of the game at the highest echelons from the earliest days of the Union; they were all now

to come calling at Woollams! OAs had to be worthy of inclusion in this august group and they did not disappoint.

High points were many and are now registered in the memory of all.

Home and away victories over Fylde and Coventry could not have been countenanced a few short seasons ago. Triumph over Ealing (eventual champions and now Championship new boys) and a narrow defeat in probably the best game of the year in the return at Woollams brought deserved praise from all corners.

However, it must be remembered that Blaydon claimed the double over Shanahan’s men as did Loughborough whose fightback in the second half of the second game will provide a caveat for some time to come!

Outside the club’s domestic endeavours no less than seven players were involved with England Representative sides which is a reflection of playing excellence and a boon to the club’s future.

Coach Shanahan has had his qualities recognised and now moves on to a new challenge at Plymouth.

He takes the thanks and good wishes of a grateful club with him.

His replacement, Andy Holloway, is already well known to the playing squad, coming to St Albans via Bedford Blues, Southend and Cambridge University. He should provide a seamless changeover.

The rest of the club was similarly successful. There were four other senior sides fielded every week and

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their results were very positive from the start. The Saints, the powerful Ladies team, had similar success throughout the year despite having several fixtures cancelled or rearranged. OAs now offers rugby to females from 6 to 60!

The Mini/Junior section goes from strength to strength and over

800 youngsters are now registered players. They are backed up by a vast number of qualified coaches at every level. The Rugby Rats section now caters for those players of three years and up! Roll on September! text Rory Davis President Elect, OARFC

Cricket

Looking up n David Rourke looks back on a soggy season in which the 1st XI achieved the unwanted record of playing the fewest matches since 1931

Going into the 2013 season, Old Albanian Cricket Club has a more optimistic feel about it than was the case 24 months ago. Then, the impact of the previous four, unhappy seasons saw OACC enter the 2011 season with a much-diminished squad (in terms of both quality and quantity), and problems throughout the club which were exacerbated by double relegation afflicting the 1st and 2nd XIs in 2010; underachievement, rancour and relegation led to many players departing the scene during those four years. Fastforward two years, and the club is in a better place, albeit very much a work in progress. Then again, that is always the case with sports clubs, for the best analogy regarding their management is with a garden; to wit, needing constant care and

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attention to remain in optimal condition.

A mixture of judicious and fortunate recent recruitment, and careful management led by Richard Morgan (a wise and caring Chairman), has placed the club in a better position to progress and to finally capitalise on the excellence of the Woollams facilities. At 1st and 3rd XI levels, the sides should be more competitive in 2013 than has been the case for some time; with the 2nd XI, the challenge will be to replace or augment a number of stalwart players and reduce the average age while remaining competitive. Zahid Karim and Victor Stairmand (at the age of 22) are the new captains of the 1st and 2nd XIs respectively, while the unflappable Simon Wakeling once again takes the helm of the 3rd XI, as ever hoping for an easier season arising from settled higher sides and some benefit from the improved, recent throughput of Junior and St Albans School cricketers into the OACC ranks.

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It will certainly good to see both Alf Rehman and Ravi Vijh back in OA colours together in 2013. Among current 1st XI players, they alone played through the disruptive 20072010 period, are both very committed to the club and probably the hardest trainers. They have both had time away from the club recently; Alf spent a successful 2011 season with Hampstead CC, wanting both a break from Woollams and to test himself at a higher level, while Ravi sat out 2012 as his successful hockey career took precedence – something that will restrict his availability again in 2013. Alongside, in particular, such excellent recent recruits as Chris Dobson, Zahid Ali Khan, Jimmy Hayat and Ahsan Ali,

Alf and Ravi’s examples should set the tone for the club in 2013 and beyond.

Off the field, members are also involved in another gardeningesque task that requires patience, thoroughness and ongoing attention, namely to organise the club’s archive and website. The intention is to provide a fuller update on this activity, and the development of a definitive history of OACC, in the next edition of the OA Bulletin. In the meantime, any information, memories or photographs pertaining to OACC will be gratefully received (and original material returned), either via the editor or direct to david_rourke131@yahoo.com David Rourke

Golf

What global warming? n With fingers firmly crossed for better weather, Secretary Peter Dredge looks forward to a busy season for the OA Golf Society

The March 2012 winter get-together was held at Hadley Wood GC and short- sleeved shirts were the order of the day. This year, the same venue was under a foot of snow with temperatures about 30 degrees less than 2012. The Secretary received the usual volley of abuse from disappointed members, some of

whom felt that the course should have been opened for the OAGS! Our first match of the season was against the Antelopes and MidHerts members on 27 April. A full report will be included in the next Bulletin. We are delighted that John Smith will be Captain for the events scheduled for the season and there is an attractive programme as follows: Thursday 27 June – OA Cup at Sandy Lodge GC Friday 5 July – OAGS v Old Fullerians at West Herts GC Friday 19 July – Captain’s Day at Gog Magog GC Friday 9 August – OAGS v Old Cholmeleians at Mid-Herts GC

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Friday 16 August – OAGS v Old Haberdashers at Harpenden GC (Hammonds End) Monday-Wednesday 2,3,4 September – Thorpeness trip Friday 20 September – London Old Boys Foursomes at Highgate GC Friday 11 October – Briggs Goblets at Mid-Herts GC Friday 22 November – Annual Dinner at OA Sports Pavilion

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As always, all OAs are most welcome to attend any of these events. The main aim is to enjoy some friendly occasions. to meet up with contemporaries and to play some decent golf courses. Please contact Peter Dredge on 01582 834572 or e-mail pjdredge42@aol.com Peter Dredge Secretary OA Golf

Angling

Lifting barbels n Honorary Secretary Geoff Cannon reports on winter season marred by bad weather and looks forward to the new trout season

The winter season is now drawing to a close, marred by the extreme weather conditions. As usual the autumn weekend to Norfolk took

place and was enjoyed by all. The Fishwives Supper took place in November and, as usual, was well supported.

In February, because of the inclement weather, members attend our usual non-fishing weekend.

This year was at the Fleet Air Arm Museum at Yeovilton.

One of our members, Adrian Blackwell, visited the Wye Valley in

Adrian Blackwell’s barbel

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January and landed a 13lb barbel – a magnificent specimen (see photo).

We are all looking forward to the new trout fishing season and, hopefully, better weather.

New members are always welcomed to the Club, all they have

to do is to contact Geoff Cannon, whose details are below and he will be pleased to supply further information on our activities.

Geoff Cannon Honorary Secretary, OA Angling Club

Tennis

Courting success n With new floodlights adding to the fantastic facilities, Secretary Sue Barnes looks forward to tennis all year round at Woollams

OA Tennis is now celebrating its 10th Anniversary in the Watford District Tennis League. We have one men’s, one ladies’ and two mixed teams playing in the league during the summer, and OA Tennis has gained much respect for our fantastic courts and playing surfaces, as well as the beautiful surroundings. And last but not least, for our fabulous tennis teas in the clubhouse after every match, which have been voted by other clubs as the best in the League. Thanks must go to Barbara and her team for making this happen.

We have a resident tennis coach who organises daytime coaching sessions, where most of those being coached end up in the clubhouse for a well-deserved cup of coffee and a get together.

We are very excited to announce that the floodlights are now installed

and we look forward to playing on them in the winter. This now means that OA Tennis will be up and running all year round – weather permitting, of course – and hoping to play winter matches as well as summer matches. This season also saw the very expensive and huge job of removing the moss which had crept across the courts during the winter; the courts are now like new again and playing extremely well.

We are always looking for new members to join the enthusiastic crowd that we already have and an annual membership, at the moment, costs £120. Whatever their standard, anyone interested in playing tennis at one of the best facilities in the county can contact the club secretary Sue Barnes on 07970 301345.

Now that we have the floodlights, we are hoping to increase our junior membership so if you are interested in enrolling your children, we have excellent coaches who can coach them to a high standard.

Sue Barnes Secretary OA Tennis

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