THE VIGORNIAN THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE TA MEN AIAAKTA MAN9ANQ, TA A'ETPETA ZHTO, TA A'ETKTA IIAPA 6EON HITHSAMHN.
Vol. XIII.
DECEMBER, 1941.
CONTENTS. Page Editorial 233 The Fourth Centenary Commemoration Service... 234 School Officers 236 School Notes... 236 O.V. News 237 Decorations ... 238 Births, Engagements and Marriages 238 Obituary 238 O.V. Serving in H.M. Forces 239 House Notes 242 Rugger Notes 243 J.T.C. Notes 246 A.T.C. Notes 248 Shooting Notes 248 Scout Notes ... 249 Play Reading Society 249 R.S.P.C.A 249 King's Scholarships 249 The Refectory—1541-1941 249 Salvete 249 Valete 250 Oxford Letter 251 Birmingham Letter 251 Correspondence 251 Contemporaries 252
No. 160.
EDITORIAL. Shortly after half-term the Headmaster told the School at morning prayers, and the news was soon afterwards publicly announced, that he had informed the Governors that he felt the task he had undertaken in returning to office to have been accomplished. With the School safely re-established in its own buildings and its numbers restored, he felt that the time had come when he ought to hand over the ruling of it to a new Headmaster, with whose election he had therefore asked them to proceed. At the opening of his sermon at the Fourth Centenary Commemoration Service, which we print on another page, the Dean gave brief expression to the feelings which we all shared on hearing of this decision, and we think we need say no more at the present moment than that we shall say good-bye to Mr. Creighton for the second time with redoubled regret and gratitude. We understand that a new Headmaster will be appointed early next year, who will take up his duties at the beginning of the Summer term. For the rest, this has been a calm and happy term, with unusually mild weather and a remarkably clear bill of health. Owing to the urgent need for economy in paper, and the increase in the expense of printing, it will probably not be possible to issue The Vigornian next term.
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THE VIGORNIAN.
December, 1941
THE FOURTH CENTENARY COMMEMORATION SERVICE.
THE DEAN'S SERMON. Look unto the Rock whence ye are hewn (Isaiah, li. i.).
Whatever form the Fourth Centenary celebrations might have taken had it not been for the war, it is certain that a service of commemoration in the cathedral would have been an integral part of them. It might have been a. special service, attended by representatives of other King's Schools, of the Universities, of the City and County—even of the Crown; but there is a sense in which it is true to say that no special service, however impressive and attended by visitors however distinguished, could have marked the occasion more fittingly than the simple familiar Morning Prayer that we attended on Sunday, December 7th, the 400th Anniversary of the King's letter appointing the first Master of the School in 1541. Deliberately, little change was made from the usual service that the School has always attended, but, with the willing co-operation of the Dean and Chapter, it was associated throughout with the special intention to which it was dedicated. The First Lesson (" Let us now praise famous men," Ecclesiasticus, xliv, 1-15) was read—and read very beautifully—by D. L. Thawley, deputising for the Captain of the School, who had to be away taking an examination at Cambridge, and the Headmaster read the Second Lesson (Ephesians iv, 1-16). Before the Dean's sermon, Canon Briggs" fine school centenary hymn, " Our Father, by whose servants Our house was built of old," was sung to the tune of " Jerusalem the Golden," and at the close of the sermon the Dean read from the pulpit the prayer of " thanks for our Founder and all other our Benefactors by whose liberality we are here brought up to godliness and the studies of good learning," and the prayer for " all who serve Thee here, whether as teachers or learners." During the last hymn, " For all the Saints," which had been the School's choice, the collection was taken, to be devoted to the New Guinea Mission which supports the diocese of Bishop Strong, O.V. We have since learned that it amounted to over of £13. The entire Chapter was present, as well as most of the other Governors, and the service was attended by the staff and almost the whole school. The Headmaster of the Royal Grammar School and the Headmistresses of the Alice Ottley School and of the Worcester Secondary School for Girls accepted our invitations to be present, with representatives of their staffs and pupils. Amongst many old friends of the School in the large congregation which filled the nave, we were glad to see Mrs. Chappel, Miss Rammell, Mr. and Mrs. Castley and Mr. A. Taylor. Though there were many apologies, a large number of Old Vigornians (considering the difficulties of the times) were able to come. We noticed the following, and apologise if we have overlooked others who were also there: J. E. B. Littlebury (President of the O.V. Club), E. E. Bird, T. Bates, M. Bates, A. P. Bolland, Maurice Webb, W. H. Webb, and C. H. C. Faram represented the older generation. Of Canon Chappel's reign there were W. F. C. Underwood, J. B. Cavenagh, F. J. Haysman, S. D. Strong, A. Macdonald, R. E. Hulse and H. H. Holmes; and, of more recent years, C. P. Longland, W. J. Blakeway, M. G. Baylis, R. H. Fyson, A. D. Bolland, S. M. Lock, O. W. King, C. M. Lavender, A. E. Pepper, C. A. Myers, P. F. Painter, J. G. Nicholls, R. A. Goer, D. J. Harris and T. K. Dinsdale.
It is the hope of the Governors of the King's School and of the Committee of the Old Vigornians' Club that when times are more propitious the Fourth Centenary of the Foundation of the School shall be observed with fitting celebrations. But it was felt that this day should not be allowed to pass unmarked, and and that, as it falls upon a Sunday, this Service should be given the character of a Commemoration of the founding of the School. For on December the seventh in the year 1541 pur Royal Founder Henry VIII wrote to Sir Richard Rich, the Chancellor of the Court of Augmentations, which managed the property of the dissolved monasteries belonging to the Crown, commending to him the bearer of the letter—John Pether—as "a person boothe for his learning and also for his sobrietie very mete and apte to be by us appointed Scholemaster in somme Cathedral Collegiate Churche to be newly by us erected and established." The King therefore " nominated and appointed him Scholemaster of our Cathedral Churche of Worcester." It is a remarkable coincidence that we should be commemorating this event only a few days after the announcement of the resignation of our present Headmaster, and when there is laid upon the Governors the grave responsibility of choosing as his successor one to whom will be committed the inspiring task of leading the School forward into the new world which will open before us when the war is over. This is not the time to give any full expression to the Governors' sense of the debt which the King's School owes to Mr. Creighton, whether for the long and fruitful years of his regular Headmastership, or for his chivalrous return to help the School over a critical period in its life. But this occasion cannot be allowed to pass without at least this reference to a feeling which is in the heart of every friend of the King's School to-day. I have referred to the coincidence that we should be commemorating the appointment of the first Headmaster at a time when a new appointment has to be made to the same high office. But indeed there are other reasons why we should feel that the present is a peculiarly significant time for the holding of this Commemoration. The future historian, indebted, as every student of the history of our Cathedral Schools is bound to be and as assuredly the preacher is to-day, to Mr. Alec Macdonald's brilliant and scholarly history of the School, is likely to regard the years 1940-1942 as marking an epoch in the life of the King's School. The fact of the war itself would be reason enough, but along with that there is the enforced removal to Criccieth—the life of the School there shorn of almost all its day boys—the chivalrous help given by the Royal Grammar School— the successful return and the buoyant recovery—the sympathy of the local Education authorities—and finally the appointment of a new Headmaster. It is good that at such a time we should be called by the completing of its fourth century to cast our eyes back to the foundation of the School. It would be tempting to use this occasion to make some contribution to the friendly controversy about the origins of the School and its relation to the Episcopal School that had so long existed in the City, and which was suppressed or suspended when the King's School was founded. But it is enough that we look back to the founding of our own School four centuries ago.
December, 1941
THE VIGORNIAN.
They are centuries of which we may say with thankfulness and pride that Church and Commonwealth have been bettered by the studies of those who worked and played within its walls. How close has been, both in purpose and in fact, the relation between the School and the Cathedral, is revealed by the study of the Statutes and by the history of the School. The purpose of its Foundation is defined in clear and unambiguous terms :— " That piety and good letters may in our Church for ever blossom, grow, flower and in their time bear fruit for the glory of God and the advantage and adornment of the Commonwealth." Of the services of the Church it is said : " We will that the Grammar boys who are maintained at the expense of the Church shall be present in Choir on Feast Days and diligently do whatever duty is imposed on them by the Precentor." In the School itself at 6 o'clock every morning the Usher was to say antiphonally with the boys Psalm xxi, "The King shall rejoice in thy strength, O Lord"—and certain prayers ; and every evening before the end of School Psalm cxxxiv was to be said and the Collect for the 7th Sunday after Trinity followed by the Evensong Collect—" Lighten our darkness, we beseech Thee, O Lord." The curriculum, almost purely classical, was prescribed in detail by the Statutes, but it is difficult to believe that it can have been rigidly followed for any very long time. , The appointment of Schoolmaster and Usher or Second-Master was in the hands of the Dean and Chapter, who also nominated the 40 King's Scholars and were in fact the Governors of the School which was an integral part of the whole Cathedral establishment or foundation. The Statutes were not changed until 1937. Various attempts were made in the reign of Charles II, of Queen Anne, and in the year 1879, to obtain revision, but none of the amended drafts received Parliamentary sanction, though they were used to indicate directions in which the original statutes might be, and often were, in practice relaxed. So far as they concern the School, the Henry VIII Statutes were superseded by the Scheme drawn up by the Charity Commissioners in 1884 and subsequently amended by them and more recently by the Board of Education. The School under these Schemes receives £600 from Cathedral Funds, the Headmaster's House, and the use of College Hall at a nominal rent, the cost of upkeep of the Hall falling on the Dean and Chapter. It receives £400 from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners and a direct grant from the Board of Education. The Board of Governors, previously consisting of the Dean and Canons alone, is now strengthened by the inclusion of four additional Governors, two from the City, one from the County, and one to represent the University of Oxford. I should like to pay a tribute to the great services rendered to the School by these Governors and to their unfailing interest and concern for its well being. It is not too much to say that the developments which I have described saved the School from extinction at the turn of the century, and, though its constitutional relation to the Cathedral has been altered, the connection which has persisted through these four hundred years is as intimate and cordial as ever to-day. In the 1937 Statutes the Headmaster, the Second Master and the King's Scholars are included among the members of the Cathedral Body and their names are called
235
with the other members on the days of the two principal meetings of the Chapter. While the change in the constitutional position does not allow of the rights and privileges of the School being detailed as in the original Statutes, it is declared that "it shall be lawful for the Chapter to grant to the Headmaster, the Second-Master, the Assistant-Masters, the King's Scholars, and other students of the King's School such privileges in the Cathedral Church and precincts as it may from time to time determine." That power the Chapter is happy to use by according all the customary privileges to the School. It receives in its turn the ready assistance of the masters and boys on every occasion on which it turns to them for help. There is no reference in the present Statutes to the rights of the School to the use of its traditional home in College Hall, the old Refectory of the Monastery, but, as I have said, these rights are secured by the terms of the Scheme under which it is now administered. I have called the Refectory the traditional home of the School. There is no certain proof of its having begun its life in the Refectory, but the evidence points so strongly that way that it may be safely assumed that it was so. For a short period it was exiled to the decayed Carnary Chapel (on the site of which the Dean has made his temporary home) to the great indignation of the Bishop who was deprived of his hayloft to make room, as he complained, " for 200 swearing and lying boys." So strongly was the action of the Dean and Chapter in ejecting the School from the Refectory resented that the City itself presented a petition to Parliament and the School was restored to its ancient home. As my imagination plays about these dim beginnings of the School, I try to picture that first Class of boys taught by John Pether up on the familiar dais at the end of the Hall. Had the east wall been plastered then and did it bear the 35 coats of arms of which Richard Symons tells us, writing a century later ? Or did the majestic ruin of the great Reredos tower above them as they bent over Erasmus's " Copiousness of Words and Things " and Lily's Grammar ? Or is it possible that that first Class saw the great Reredos in all its original glory of form and colour ? Is it even possible—for the heated controversies of the time invaded the cloister and the schoolroom—that among the hands which brought the Reredos to ruin were hands of some among that first company of King's Scholars ?—hands which could tear down the ornaments and mar the features but which have not availed to abate the majesty of the seated Christ ! It may be so. But much can and must be forgiven to men acting in the heat of passion. It is not revolutionary fury, nor iconoclasm, nor persecution—whether on the part of Englishmen or Frenchmen or Russians— of which we need be afriad. It is the slow processes of disintegration and decay by which the reality and heart are taken out of religion though the outward form remains. This is a disease whose ravages may leave their grievous mark in Church and School alike,—a disease to the grave symptoms and the sad results of which we in England are all too late beginning to awake. We need not lament too much the outward excesses of the Reformation. We can forgive the passionate zeal which prompted Bishop Latimer to despoil our Lady Chapel of the figure of the Virgin and send it up to Smithfield to be burnt, provided that to-day we still find in the Incarnation of the Son of God the title deed of human dignity and the earnest of what man himself
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may be. We need not care too much that crucifixes were torn down and desecrated then, so long as our faith stills rests to-day on what Christ wrought for man upon the Cross. We need not even deplore the blind fanaticism which defaced the reredos in College Hall, if only Christ in Majesty is accepted by our Schools and by our Scholars as the object of their loyalty and the Master of their lives. If we hold fast by these great truths of which the historic link between the King's School and this Cathedral Church is both the symbol and the pledge, we shall not fear the future; we shall welcome the new fields and avenues of service which the unknown future will most surely bring. And there can be few schools which can look forward to the future with greater confidence and hope. Secure in the loyalty of its sons, assured of the goodwill of the City and the County which it is proud to serve, linked but not bound to this Cathedral Church, it can look with thanksgiving to the rock whence it was hewn, and with its feet firm planted on that rock it can look forward with courage to the future, ready to take its full part in whatever calls to service the Church and Commonwealth may give.
KING'S SCHOOL FOURTH CENTENARY (1541-1941) FUND. It was decided at a general meeting of the O.V. Club on the llth July, 1941, that, while it was inadvisable to issue any general appeal or to decide the object of a fund until after the war, a fund should be inaugurated, to be known as the King's School Fourth Centenary and War Memorial Fund, and that donations paid to it be invested in 3% Defence Bonds. The President of the O.V. Club (Mr. J. E. B. Littlebury) has now opened this Fund with a very generous donation. Other donations, great or small, will be gratefully received for investment during the war, and should be forwarded to the Secretary, King's School, Worcester.
SCHOOL OFFICERS. Captain of the School - J. H. Coles. Captain of Rugger - J. H. Coles. Secretary of Rugger - A. G. Green. Captain of Shooting - J. G. Morris. Secretary of Shooting - W. R. Curtis. Captain of Gym - J. G. Morris. Captain of Fives - K. S. Flay. Captains of Houses :— School House - D. L. Thawley. Castle House - J. H. Coles. Hostel . . . - J. F. B. Russell. Chappel's House - K. S. Flay. Creighton's House - A. G. Green. School Monitors—J. H. Coles, A. G. Green, D. L. Thawley, J. G. Morris, K. S. Flay, J. F. B. Russell. Librarians—D. L. Thawley, A. G. Green, J. F. B. Russell, J. G. Morris. Editors of The Vigornian—D. L. Thawley, J. H. Coles, C. R. Sampson.
December, 1941
SCHOOL NOTES. The Fourth Centenary Commemoration Service on December 7th was an occasion which will long live in our memory, and will survive even the celebrations we hope to have when the war is over. The service was reported in The Times and the Daily Telegraph, and in greater detail in the Birmingham Post, which had also published a long article on the School's history on the previous Friday over the initials C.V.H., which we had no difficulty in identifying with those of C. V. Hancock, O.V. It was a great pleasure to us to find that Bromsgrove School, which has not yet been fortunate enough to recover its buildings, remembered our birthday in its exile at Llanyrtyd Wells. Its Headmaster telegraphed to ours : "Hearty Congratulations, Warm Greetings and Good Wishes for the Future to King's School from Bromsgrove School." The telegram was pinned on the school notice board, and we can assure all Bromsgrovians that their message was very warmly appreciated.
A Harvest Camp was held during five weeks of the summer holidays, as last year, at Mr. Hector Smith's farm at Snowshill, Broadway. The plum crop was so poor that we were not required until the time came for the corn harvest. Rain interfered seriously with the work, but did not damp the spirits of the campers, and, with pay at 7d. an hour and an extra 2d. overtime pay, we earned a surplus of about £10 over our expenses. Part of this was distributed amoug the workers, and the balance, together with the wages earned during the first half of this term digging the potato crop on Mr. Stapleton Martin's and Mr. Gill's farms, has swelled the Fives Court Fund to the extent of some £19.
There is to be no School Concert this term, owing to the black-out and the difficulty of heating College Hall, but it is hoped that one will be held next term. Since the choir will thus have twice as long as usual in which to practise, it is but reasonable to expect that its performance will be twice as good as usual. The school play will be produced in the Summer term. We understand that the play chosen is " The Tempest."
This term Mr. Castley has returned to the School. Though none of us now in the school were here when he retired in 1935, we have heard much of his past record, and we all extend to him an extremely hearty welcome. The new Bishop of Worcester, Dr. William Wilson Cash, was enthroned in the Cathedral on Thursday, November 13th. The King's Scholars naturally attended this service and several senior members of the school acted as stewards. The service was very impressive and we all hope that the 108th Bishop of Worcester will soon be able to visit the School.
December, 1941
THE VIGORNIAN.
Members of the VI and Upper V were allowed to attend two lectures in the Guildhall in the course of the term, the one by Sir Ronald Storrs, former Governor of Jeruselem and Judaea, and the other by Dr. Wellington Koo, the Chinese Ambassador, and former Prime Minister of China. Most of us were rather disappointed by the former which consisted mainly of a plain statement of the political situation in the Middle East. We felt that a man such as Sir Ronald, who had had first hand experience, should have been able to give a rather more personal lecture. We were all, however, favourably impressed by the lecture given by Dr. Wellington Koo, though somewhat startled to learn that China was so democratic and peace-loving. We had always associated China, mentally, with war-lords and bandits.
On two occasions during the term, by the kind invitation of Canon Hutchinson, members of the Vlth attended lectures given to the Worcester Branch of the Historical Association. At the first of these, Professor Pollak, formerly headmaster of a school near Vienna, spoke on the events leading up to the French Revolution. He portrayed very cleverly the utter chaos into which the whole of French administration had sunk before the Revolution and traced remarkably clearly the steps that lead up to that Revolution. The second lecture was delivered by Mr. Macdonald and was especially interesting to members of the King's School, as it dealt with Worcestershire schools at the time of the Reformation, with special reference to the King's School and the Royal Grammar School. Those who have read Mr. Macdonald's History of the King's School will be acquainted with his views on the subject; those who have not, we can only advise to do so. Mr. Macdonald set forth his arguments clearly and intelligibly, but we are bound to admit that we felt considerable sympathy with the Dean, who, in proposing a vote of thanks, suggested that the evidence was capable of a different interpretation, namely, that the King's School, and not the Royal Grammar School, is the true successor of the mediaeval Episcopal School.
On Saturday, December 6th, Mr. Macdonald spoke to the school about its Fourth Centenary. We were all interested in this lecture, and especially those of us who were not able to hear him speak at the meeting of the Historical Association.
In the course of this term, the school has had the opportunity of hearing talks by representatives of the Royal Navy and the R.A.F. These are meant to give information as to the procedure to be adopted for joining either of these services. Although the school was interested to hear both these talks, we must confess that the general feeling was that little was added to what most of us already knew.
237 O.V. NEWS.
We are very pleased to hear that F. Maurice Webb (Day Boy, 1883-87) has been unanimously elected an Alderman of the Worcester City Council. He has already served the City before, as a City Councillor, from 1927-41, and as High Sheriff in the municipal year 1930-31. In addition, he was appointed a Representative Governor of the King's School in 1931, which office he still holds.
D. L. Shelton (Castle House, 1935-40) is now training for a commission in the R.A.F., at Arcadia, Florida, U.S.A.
T. F. Schulhof (School House, 1938-41) is studying by means of a University Corresponding Course, and has accepted a post as Assistant Master at a Preparatory School.
Sir W. D. Battershill, K.C.M.G. (School House, 1907-14) has given up his appointment as Governor of Cyprus in order that his services may be placed at the disposal of the Colonial Office. He succeeds Sir Alan Burns, recently appointed Governor of the Gold Coast.
C. Brown (Hostel, 1918) has had the honorary degree of Doctor of Music bestowed on him by the Archbishop of Canterbury. He is, at present, the organist and music master at the Diocesan College at Rondebosch, Capetown, South Africa.
L. C. Dickins (Castle House, 1926-30) is still in Calcutta, erecting large high-pressure boilers in a chemical factory. He has been visited by Bridgeman, Cockle, and Torrens.
G. Rice-Jones (Castle House) is at present repairing 50-60,000 munition boxes, and is beginning to see them when he wakes up at night.
G. R. Dickins (Castle House, 1926-31) is in an Aircraft Factory, and is married to Brenda Leys.
J. S. R. Hall (Castle House, 1917-22) had the good fortune to meet his brother, R. E. O. Hall, in Egypt. J. S. R. Hall is in the A.I.F. and has been to Palestine, from where he was sent to Egypt, while his brother came from England.
December, 1941
THE VIGORNIAN.
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A. W. R. Bailey (Day Boy, 1935-41) and R. G. E. Wharmby (School House, 1938-41), are at the moment both studying at the R.A.F. University Course. Bailey is at Durham, and Wharmby at Oxford. We feel sure that they deserve the best of luck.
Peter Beaumont (Natland, 1921-30) is at present Senior Modern Languages Master at Tabor Academy, Boston, U.S.A. Tabor is a famous rowing school, which has won at Henley Regatta in recent years. Beaumont is one of the rowing coaches, and is liable for service in the American Army, having naturalized there. * * * Captain J. L. R. Croft (School House, 1920-24) in collaboration with a fellow Prisoner of War at Offlag VII C, has written a novel, the M.S. of which was permitted by the German authorities to be sent home and it has been published by Hutchinson's under the title Wychwood Chronicles. The setting is a hotel in the Cotswolds, at which three married couples have arranged to spend Christmas. Illness prevents two of the party from turning up, and the story is told in the form of letters to them by the others.
ENGAGEMENTS. BENDALL-FASSELL. The engagement is announced between D. C. Bendall, Ordinasy Seaman, R.N., and Jean, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fassell, of Tickenham, Somerset. BAIN-WHITE. The engagement is announced between 2nd. Lieut. David W. Bain (School House, 1927-31), The King's Own Royal Regiment, younger son of Mrs. and the late Mr. D. H. Bain of Clevedon, Somerset, and Sheila, daughter of Mrs. and the late Lieut. Commander G. S. White, V.C., of Rustington, Sussex.
BIRTH. LUNT. On September 12th, 1941, to the wife of W. R. F. Lunt (Hostel, 1906-7) of Johannesburg, a son (Patrick).
OBITUARY. ARNOLD EDWARD WEBB—1891-1893.
C. A. Myers (Day Boy, 1935-9) has become an articled pupil to Dr. Herbert Sumsion, the organist of Gloucester Cathedral.
A. E. Webb, who died in October, was the son of the late Col. Albert Webb, sometime President of the O.V. Club, and succeeded him as the head of the firm of Edward Webb and Sons, Ltd., horsehair cloth and carpet manufacturers of Worcester.
F. H. Yarnold (Day Boy, 1923-30) has been appointed Deputy Commissioner of Metgui, Lower Burma. ALBERT JAMES MAINWARING—1901-1909. DECORATIONS. We offer our heartiest congratulations to P. A. Thorne (School House, 1926-30) who has been awarded the M.C.
We would also like to congratulate E. W. Wootten (Day Boy, 1933-36) who has been awarded the D.F.C. A few months ago, when 10 M.E.'s attacked a convoy they were engaged by two Spitfires, which shot down 5 M.E.'s in 5 minutes. Flying Officer Wootten accounted for two, and he has destroyed three more in other engage-
MARRIAGE. COCKLE-ONDAATJE. On August 12th, 1941, at Kandy, Ceylon, Rev. D. J. Cockle (Castle House, 1920-28), younger son of Rev. A. A. Cockle, of the Rectory, Aston-Somerville, Worcestershire, to Stephanie (Stephy), younger daughter of the late Philip F. and Mrs. Ondaatje, of "Kagalle," Kandy, Ceylon.
The news has just been received of the death of A. J. Mainwaring in India on the eve of his fiftieth birthday. He went up from the School to Pembroke College, Oxford, and in 1915 was appointed to the Indian Civil Service. Soon after his arrival in India he volunteered for the Indian Cavalry and served as an officer in ^lesopotamia. After the war he returned to the I.C.S., and in 1934, when he was private secretary to the Governor of Bikar, he was awarded the Companionship of the Order of the Indian Empire for his work in the reconstruction of that province after the great earthquake. At the time of his death he held the post of Excise Officer of Bikar.
PERCIVAL HENRY BLOWER SPROSEN 1906-1912. P. H. B. Sprosen died on August 16th last, at Hitchin, where he and his brother, L. T. Sprosen, who was his contemporary at School, were in partnership as asphalt manufacturers.
December, 1941
THE VIGORNIAN.
O.V. SERVING IN H.M. FORCES. Adlington, J. (Day Boy, 1926-33), Surg.Lt., R.N. Allcott, F. A. (Day Boy, 1920-25), Flight-Lt., R.A.F.V.R. ALLEN, R. W. M. (Castle House, 1932-35), Lt. R.A. Killed in action. Allen, R. T. L. (Castle House, 1934-39), Sub-Lt., R.N. (Special Service). Angwin, J. B. P. (School House, 1915-18), M.B.E., Major, R.E. Anstey, R. (Day Boy, 1930-37), Lt., R.E. Ault, K. (Natland, 1930-34), Squadron Leader, R.A.F. Averill, T. E. (Day Boy, 1927-34), Lt. R.A. Bagenal, P. (School House, 1934-38), Pte., Australian Army. Bagenal, J. S. (School House, 1924-34), East Surrey Regt., O.C.T.U. Bagnall, R. P. C. (Day Boy, 1922-28), Staff Captain. Bailey, L. M. (Hostel, 1927-33), 2nd. Lt. Worcs. Regt. Bailey, A. W. R. (Day Boy, 1935-41), A./C. 2 R.A.F. (University Course). Bain, D. W. (School House, 1927-31), 2nd. Lt., The King's Own Royal Regiment. Baker, G. A. (Day Boy, 1930-33), Sgt., R.A. Baldry, A. (Day Boy, 1933-38), A.C.2., R.A.F. BALLEY, F. E. G. (Day Boy, 1922-29), Sgt., R.A.F. Reported missing. Bankes, Rev. W. J. H. (School House, 1922-25), Chaplain, R.N.V.R. Bartrip, K. F. (Day Boy, 1928-30), Trooper, Royal Armoured Corps. Baxter, J. N. (Hostel, 1932-34), Capt. Duke of Wellington Regt. Baxter, G. N. T. (Hostel, 1932-35), 2nd. Lt. Duke of Wellington Regt. Attached, Green Howards. Beamish, G. V. G. (Hostel, 1909-10), Commdr. Royal Indian Navy. Lt. R.N.R., 1914-18. Bearcroft, E. M. F. (Castle House, 1930-37), Sgt. Pilot, R.A.F. Bearcroft, W. G. C. (Castle House, 1932-39), Bacteriologist, R.A.M.C. Beard, W. K. (Day Boy, 1927-32), Capt. R.F.A. Beard, R. P. (Day Boy, 1930-34), Lt., R.A. Beauchamp, H. K. P. (Castle House, 1930-33), D.F.C., Squadron Leader, R.A.F. Beaumont, J. (Natland, 1927-30), Petty Officer, R.N. Beaumont, J. F. (Natland, 1921-30), 2nd. Lt., R.A.S.C., M.T. Bendall, D. C. (Castle House, 1936-40), Ordinary Seaman, R.N. Bendall, A. J. (Castle House, 1935-39), 2nd Lt., R.A.C. Blyth, M. H. (Hostel, 1933-36), Pte., East Surrey Regt. Bough, R. H. (Day Boy, 1933-39), Trooper, Royal Armoured Corps. Bennett, H. W. E. (Day Boy, 1910-18), Paymaster Lt.Commdr., R.N. Bissley, F. B. L. (School House, 1927-29), 2nd Lt. Essex Regt. Blanchard, H. (Day Boy, 1919-20), Comdg. Coy. Pioneer Corps. Boddington, M. C. B. (School House, 1929-32), D.F.M. Flight-Lt., R.A.F. Bolland, A. D. (School House, 1932-37), Lt., R.A. Bowstead, T. C. (School House, 1912-17), Lt., R.N. Served 1917-18. Branch, A. E. N. (Hostel, 1927-33), A./C. 1., R.A.F. Bridgman, F. H. G. (Hostel, 1925-31), A.D.C. to the Viceroy of India.
239
Briggs, D. E. (Day Boy, 1932-37), R.A.F. Brooks, R. I. G. (Castle House, 1932-36), 2nd Lt., R.F.A. (B.E.F.). Brown, C. H. (Day Boy, 1915-24), Capt. R.A.S.C. Brown, G. W. (Day Boy, 1918-22), Pte., R.A.O.C. Brown, G. D. (Day Boy, 1926-28), O.C.T.U. (Royal Armoured Corps). Bryer, C. F. (Day Boy, 1933-39), Cpl., R.A. Bryer, W. N. (Day Boy, 1930-37), O.C.T.U. (R.A.). Bubb, H. (Day Boy, 1931-38), A.C.2., R.A.F. Caldicott, A. W. (Day Boy, 1929-31), Capt., R.A.S.C. Caldicott, P. D. (Day Boy, 1936-39), 2nd.Lt., Leeds Rifles. Cavenagh, T. F. (Day Boy, 1904-09), M.C., Major, R.H.A. Served 1914-18. Chappel, B. H. (School House, 1905-9), D.S.O., Lt. Col., Punjab Regt. Chaytor, C. J. (1899-1905), Paymaster Lt.-Commdr. Served, 1914-18 (Ment. in Despatches). Checketts, H. J. (Day Boy, 1930-38), Ordinary Seaman, R.N. Clark, G. P. (School House), Major, Northants. Regt. Clarke, D. S. (School House, 1931-34), Fleet Air Arm. Claxton, F. W. R. (Day Boy, 1924-31), A./C. 2. R.A.F. Cleverly, E. (Day Boy, 1926-33), 2nd-Lt., Worcs. Regt. (France). Prisoner of war, wounded. Cockburn, C. R. (Hostel, 1928-31), Capt., The Buffs. Cole, E. J. (School House, 1926-32), Capt., Glous. Regt. Collett, O. (Natland, 1918-20), Lt., R.N.V.R. Collins, R. J. (Day Boy, 1924-29), Cpl., R.A.F. Columbi, P. L. A. B. (School House, 1930-31), Lt., R.N. Cornforth, E. M. (Castle House), A./Capt., R.A. Cox, H. C. (Day Boy, 1930-38), Gunner, R.A., Searchlight Bn. Cox, Rev. W. F. (Day Boy, 1923-31), Chaplain. Croft, J. L. R. (School House, 1920-24), A./Capt., The Black Watch. Prisoner of war. Crofts, Rev. J. A. (Day Boy, 1923-27), Chaplain, R.A.F. Crowe, M. G. N. (Day Boy, 1927-34), L.A.C., R.A.F. Crowley, P. L. (Castle House, 1931-34), 2nd.Lt., R.A.S.C. Curtis, F. J. (Day Boy, 1932-37), D.F.C., Flying-Officer Instr. South Africa. Darwood, I. A. (Hostel, 1929-32), Cpl., R.A.F. Davenport, Rev. S. F. (School House, 1910-14), Chaplain to the Forces. Davies, H. M. (School House, 1905-10), M.C., Capt., Welsh Regt. Served, 1914-18. Davies, O. R. (School House, 1925-29), 2nd.-Lt. Royal Tank Regt. Davies, M. B. (School House, 1934-37), Lt., R.A. Denton, H. S. (School House, 1912-16), Capt., Glous. Regt. Served, 1916-18. Dickins, L. C. (Castle House, 1926-30), Trying for Commission in the R.I.N. Dickins, N. M. (Castle House, 1928-30), 2nd.Lt., R.I.A.S.C. Dixon, J. H. F. (School House, 1927-31), Major, E. Yorks. Regt. Staff. Dobson, R. M. (School House, 1935-39), R.M. Dowdell, R. J. (Day Boy, 1932-34), R.A.M.C. Dyer, K. B. (School House, 1932-36), 2nd.Lt., R.A. Eckersley, B. S. (Castle House, 1930-37), 2nd.Lt., Manchester Regt. Edwards, J. B. (Day Boy, 1918-27), 2nd.-Lt. 40th Royal Warwicks. Ellison, S. D. (Castle House, 1937-41), Gunner, R.A.
240
THE VIGORNIAN.
Embling, J. R. A. (Hostel, 1926-31), Squadron-Leader, Air Liason Officer, R.A.F. Evans, J. D. (Castle House, 1927-34), 2nd.-Lt., R.A.S.C. Evans, Rev. S. J. A. (Castle House, 1908-13), Chaplain, R.N.V.R. Fairgrieve, A. (School House, 1934-38), 2nd.-Lt., Gurkha Rifles. Fergusson, Dr. N. M. (Castle House, 1906-10), O.B.E., Lt.Col., R.A.M.C. Served 1914-18. (Ment. in Desp. twice). Field, A. G. T. (School House, 1936-38), Pte., Warwickshire Regt. Flay, J. C. (Day Boy, 1919-24), Maj., R.F.A. (France) Wounded. Flay, A. L. (Day Boy, 1922-30), Maj., R.E. Folley, J. H. (Castle House, 1933-39), Coder, R.N. Ford, B. L. (School House, 1926-29), Cdt., O.C.T.U. Fourdrinier, P. D. (Castle House, 1935-38), Pte., E. Surrey Regt. Fox, D. C. (School House, 1934-39), Wireless Operator in Merchant Service. Francis, J. (Day Boy, 1932-37) Pte., R.A.O.C. Fyson, E. C. (School House, 1930-33), Flying Officer, R.A.F., India. Fyson, R. H. (School House, 1931-34), Lt., R.N. Gardiner, I. G. (Day Boy, 1927-33), A.B., Navy. Garnett, J. M. (Hostel, 1935-38), Wireless Operator, R.A.F. Gamett, R. A. (Castle House, 1932-35), 2nd.-Lt. 22nd Dragoons. George, J. G. (Natland, 1926-29), 2nd.-Lt., R.A. Gettings, F., Capt., R.E., Palestine. Gettings, F. W. C. (Day Boy, 1916-24), K.S.L.I. Gettings, H. C. (Day Boy, 1920-26), Gloucs. Regt. Gilson, E. R. L. (Castle House, 1929-34), 2nd Lt., Wore. Regt. Glew, G. W. L. (School House, 1933-35), 2nd.Lt., 5th E. Yorks. Regt. Glover, I. (Castle House, 1935-37), Sgt., R.A. Good, M. H. (Castle House, 1936-40), A./C. 2, R.A.F. Grainger, E. J. (Hostel, 1924-27), Air Ministry. Graves-Morris, P. H. (School House, 1920-25), Capt., Worcs. Regt. Green, E. W. (Castle House, 1912-15), Lt., R.A. (France). Served 1915-18. Green, J. G. (Day Boy, 1932-38), A.C.2., R.A.F. Gregory, E. C. (Day Boy, 1928-35), Driver, R.A.S.C. Grist, C. H. (School House, 1923-29), Lt., R.A. Hackwood, S. N. (Castle House, 1934-37), 2nd.-Lt., R.M. Hall, R. W. T. (Castle House, 1928-30), R.A.C. Hall, D. O. (School House, 1930-38), Capt., Hants. Regt. Hall, J. S. R. (Castle House, 1917-22), A.I.F. Hall, R. E. O. (Castle House, 1917-19), Capt., R.A.S.C. Hallett, A. R. (Castle House, 1927-30), Lt., R.N. Halliley, P. T. (School House, 1934-38), Paymaster Midshipman, R.N. Harris, D. P. C. (Castle House, 1927-30), L./Sgt., County of London Yeomanry. Harris, S. B. (Day Boy, 1932-37), L.A.C., R.A.F. Harris, D. J. (Day Boy, 1933-36, Castle House, 1939-40, Day Boy, 1940-41), Army Reserve Class W. (T.) Harrison, L. A. (Day Boy, 1911-19), Maj., R.A. Harrison, A. R. (Day Boy, 1920-22), Maj., Worcs. Regt. Hartwright, C. G. (Day Boy, 1931-35), 2nd.Lt., R.A.S.C. Hayes, B. D. (Day Boy, 1934-37), Cpl., R.A.F. Haynes, P. (Day Boy, 1922-28), Wing Commander, R.A.F. India.
December, 1941
Haywood, M. J. (Day Boy, 1925-29), Balloon Barrage, R.A.F. Hedderwick, I. H. (Hostel, 1931-34), 2nd.Lt., Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. Higginson, T. F. (School House, 1926-33), Lt., King's African Rifles. Hodges, E. J. T. (Day Boy, 1914-26), Pte., 8th Cheshires. Hodgson, C. V. (School House, 1925-28), Lt., General Army Staff, India. HOGGAHD, J. W. (Castle House, 1933-35), Sub.-Lieut., R.N.R. Missing. Hollyer, P. L. B. (Castle House, 1935-37), Wireless Operator, R.A.F., R.A.F.V.R. Hopkin, D. A. B. (Castle House, 1922-29), R.A.M.C. Howells, B. St. J. (School House, 1917-20), Major, The King's Regt. Hulme, P. E. (School House, 1937-41), Pte., Staffs. Regt. Humphreys, A. F. (School House, 1908-10), Paymaster I.ieut.-Commdr. R.N. Hurford, C. (School House, 1916-19), M.B.E., Col., Welch Regt. Jackson, J. H. (Castle House, 1931-35), 2nd.-Lt., Worcs. Regt. James, H. J., 2nd.-Lt. Infantry Training Centre (Wore., Norton). Jeff, W. J. F. (Day Boy, 1924-31), Capt., 45th Royal Warwicks. Jones, L. C. (Hostel, 1934-38), Able Seaman, R.N. Kewan, J. B., Capt., Basutoland. Kirkby, H. J. (Hostel, 1907-10), Paymaster Commander, R.N. Served, 1914-18. Kitson, G. G. (Day Boy, 1927-33), R.A.F., W.Op. V.-T. Pilot. Knapp-Fisher, M. B. (School House, 1936-38), Sapper, R.E. Knight, E. W. (Day Boy, 1924-27), L./C. No. 2 Motorboat Corps. Lane, C. M. (Hostel, 1914-18), M.C., 15th Punjab Regt. Lavender, J. F. (School House, 1930-37), 2nd.-Lt. K.S.L.I. (France). Lawrey, F. W. (School House, 1933-35), Midshipman, R.N. Lawrey, J. A. (School House, 1933-36), Private, R.A.S.C. Leeke, F. W., Lieut., R.A. Leeke, L. S., Cpl., R.A. Le Huray, M. (School House, 1917-19), Emergency Reserve of Officers. Lewis, C. B. (Day Boy, 1910-16), Capt., Gurkha Rifles. Served 1916-18. Littlebury, A. T. B. (School House, 1908-16), Maj., R.A.S.C. Served 1916-18. Lodge, R. L. (Castle House, 1932-38), 2nd.-Lt., R.A. Lock, S. O. A. M. (Hostel, 1935-38), Pte., R.E. Love, C. M. (Hostel, 1915-18), M.C., Capt., Punjab Regt. Ludlow, C. W. P. (School House, 1903-10), Maj., S.L.I. Served 1914-18. Lumsdaine, A. M. (School House, 1911-12), Capt., Australian Forces. Served 1914-18. Mann, D. R. (Day Boy, 1930-35), Sgt. A.G., R.A.F. Mann, G. W. (Day Boy, 1934-38), Cpl., Worcs. Regt. Margrett, D. E. (Day Boy, 1930-34), Royal Armoured Corps. Martin, B. (Day Boy, 1927-33), R.A. Martin, T. J. (Day Boy, 1934-39), R.A.F. Masterman, S. G. (Castle House, 1914-17), Lt. Pioneer Corps. Wounded at St. Addresse. (Served, 1917-19)
December, 1941
THE VIGORNIAN.
Matthews, A. K. (1910-15), Capt., R.A. Served 1915-18. McAuslin, L. J. (School House, 1933-36), Pte., R.A.M.C. McEachran, P. (Castle House, 1933-38), Lt. Manchester Regt. McKerrow, J. C. (School House, 1936-40), Royal Armoured Corps. McLeod, M. E. G. (Castle House, 1931-35), TransAtlantic Air Service. Meers, R. G. (School House, 1926-29), 2nd.-Lt., R.A. Wounded at Dunkirk. Molony, C. J. C. (School House, 1922-26), Capt., P.W.O. Sikhs. MONAHAN, P. C. W. (School House, 1924-27), Lt., Worcs. Regt. Missing. MORRIS, J. R. (Day Boy, 1931-37), Sergt.-Pilot, R.A.F. Missing. Neale, P. (Day Boy, 1935-37), Pilot Officer, R.A.F. Newcombe, E. R. (Hostel, 1912-15), M.C., Maj., Worcs. Regt. Served, 1915-18. Nicholls, J. H. (Day Boy, 1921-27), 2nd.-Lt., Worcs. Regt. Prisoner of War. Nicholls, G. H. (Day Boy, 1925-33), 2nd-Lt., R.E. Nicholls, M. E. (Day Boy, 1934-37), R.M. Patton, C. A. C. (School House, 1913-21), Wing Commander, R.A.F. Payne, J. L. (Day Boy, 1925-31), 2nd Lt. Bedford & Herts, Regt. Penney, A. M. (Day Boy, 1928-35), Army Pay Corps. Pereira, H. P. E. (School House, 1921-24), Capt., Worcs. Regt. Peters, D. K. (Castle House, 1923-26), Pte., Worcs. Regt. Pethford, G. F. (Day Boy, 1927-31), Pte., Worcs. Regt. (Signals). Pettigrew, A. W. H. R. (Day Boy, 1929-37), Trooper, Warwickshire Yeomanry. Philips, J. C. (Day Boy, 1935-39), C.Q.M.S., Worcs. Regt. Podesta, V. L., (Day Boy, 1926-33), Colour-Sgt., Wore. Regt. Poths, J. D. (Castle House, 1934-37), B.E.F. Dunkirk. Poths, H. D. (Hostel, 1934-37), R.A. Powell, A. H. S. (School House, 1921-29), 2nd Lt. K.O.Y.L.I. Pratt, A. (Day Boy, 1925-29), A./c., R.A.F. Pressdee, J. S. (Day Boy, 1931-35), Sapper, R.E. Wounded. Pressdee, J. H. (Day Boy, 1935-38), Corp. R.E. Quin, S. E. V. (Castle House, 1907-14), Capt., K.R.R.C., India. Served 1914-18. Raban, F. W. N. P. (School House, 1931-34), Staff Sergt., R.E. Raban, J. P. C. P. (School House, 1932-36), Capt., R.A. Rackstraw, G. E. (Day Boy, 1925-32), R.A.F. Training Centre. Rathbone, L. (Hostel, 1932-36), 2nd. Lieut., R.A.S.C. Ravenhill, P. (Castle House, 1932-35), Lt., R.A. Ravenhill, J. R. (Castle House, 1931-34), Sergt., R.A. REYNOLDS, J. (Day Boy, 1927-34), Pilot Officer, R.A.F. Killed in action, Egypt. Reynolds, J. D. (School House, 1935-39), Pte., Worcs. Regt. Rice-Jones, H. (Castle House, 1933-38), R.A. (Discharged). Rice-Jones, H. M. (Castle House, 1933-36), Sgt. Intelligence Corps. Richards, N. W. (School House, 1933-38), Lt., R.E.
241
Richardson, J. H. (Hostel, 1937-38), L./C. R.A.C. Rieu, E. A. H. (Hostel, 1922-27), 2nd Lt., K.R.R.C. Roberts, I. (Day Boy, 1934-36), R.A.F. (Accountancy Dept.) Rogers, J. A. W. (Castle House, 1923-25), 2nd Lt., R.A. Rose, D. A. (Castle House, 1929-32), A./C. 2, R.A.F. Royle, P. R. (Castle House, 1924-33), 2nd Lt., Wiltshire Regt. Royle, D. C. (Castle House, 1924-32), 2nd Lt., Wiltshire Regt. Rumsey, M. W. (Natland, 1928-30), D.F.C. Pilot Officer, Palestine, R.A.F. Sankey, E. W. (School House, 1933-36), 2nd Lt., R.A. Sewell, B. A. (Day Boy, 1922-28), Meteorological Dept., R.A.F. Shelton, D. L. (Castle House, 1935-40), R.A.F. Cadet. Sheriff, D. (School House, 1933-36), Pilot, R.A.F. Simpson, S. G. (Day Boy, 1892-99), O.B.E., Col., A.E.C. Served 1914-18. Capt., 2nd Life Guards; Maj. G.H.Q. Staff. Men. in desp. Singeisen, W. E. (1925-27), R.A.F. Sleath, L. E. (Day Boy, 1929-31), Lt., R.A.O.C. Smith, K. P. (Castle House, 1909-16), Maj., Royal Berkshire Regt. Served 1916-18. Passed Staff College, Quetta. Smith, J. (Day Boy, 1929-33), R.A.F. Smith, R. (Day Boy, 1929-33), A.C.I., R.A.F. Spencer, W. G. (Hostel, 1932-35), Pilot Officer, R.A.F. Spooner, A. R. (Day Boy, 1931-35), Leading Aircraftsman, R.A.F. Stanley, M. J. C. (School House, 1919-27), Sqdron. Leader, R.A.F. Men. in desp. Stanley, V. E. M. C. (School House, 1915-22), Major, Royal Corps of Signals. Stevens, P. J. (Day Boy, 1930-35), Lt., R.E. Stevens, R. W. (Day Boy, 1935-38), Midshipman, R.N. (Convoy). STEWARD, E. J. (School House, 1929-33), 4th Regt. R.H.A. Killed in action. Steward, D. B. (School House, 1932-38), 2nd Lt., Worcs. Regt. Steward, F. A. (Day Boy, 1927-29), Pte., Worcs. Regt. (Signals). Steward, J. (Day Boy, 1932-33), 3rd Officer, Merchant Service. Strother, A. G. (Day Boy, 1930-36), Driver, R.I.F. Summers, R. E. (Day Boy, 1927-34), 2nd Lt., Gloucs. Regt. Taaffe, J. J. (Day Boy, 1932-39, Hostel, 1940), A/c. 2. R.A.F. Taylor, A. L. (Day Boy, 1931-33), D.F.C. (and 2 bars) Flight Lt., R.A.F. Taylor, M. S. (Day Boy, 1918-27), G.S.O. 3. Taylor, W. C. (School House, 1937-41), Pte., South Staffs. Regt. Thompson, C. G. L., Lieut., Royal Garwhal Rifles. Thorne, P. A. (School House, 1926-30), M.C., 2nd Lt. 12/6th King's African Rifles, Nairobi. Torrens, G. B. (Castle House, 1929-32), Lt., R.I.N. Townshend, P. M. (Day Boy, 1922-28), Pilot Officer, R.A.F. Trape, J. H. (School House, 1934-38), Cpl. E. Surrey Regt. Tull, R. E. (Castle House, 1923-26), 2nd Lt., Royal Berks. Regt. Tweedie, Dr. G. I. F. (Castle House, 1907-11), Squadron Leader R.A.F. Served 1914-18. Tyrrel, N. (Day Boy, 1930-33), 8th Corps. Signals1.
THE VIGORNIAN.
242
Walker, F. H. (School House, 1933-36), 154th Leic. Yeomanry Field Regt. Walliker, D. J. (School House, 1933-36), Flight-Lt., R.A.F. Warren, J. L. (Day Boy, 1928-35), Sgt.-Instr., A.E.C. Waterhouse, J. E. J. A. (Day Boy, 1934-38), Sgt., R.A.F. Waterhouse, R. B. W. (School House, 1934-37), Cadet, Merchant Navy. Watkins, F. W. S. (School House, 1907-15), O.B.E. Maj. P.W.O. Scinde Horse, India. Late A.D.C. Governor of Burma. Served 1915-18. Watkins, B. S. (School House, 1910-17), Indian Army, Served 1917-18. Weaver, J. L. (Day Boy, 1933-38), A/c. UT/Pilot, R.A.F. Wells, J. (Day Boy, 1929-30), D.F.M. Sgt. Observer, R.A.F. Prisoner of War. White, P. N. (School House, 1917-19), Col., General Staff. White, A. J. H. (School House, 1915-16), 2nd Lt., Wiltshire Regt. Served 1916-18. White, A. C. (School House, 1932-37), R.A.F. Whitehead, C. D. A. (Day Boy, 1931-35), Sgt. Gunner, R.A.F. Wilford, T. J. (Castle House, 1908-16), British South Africa Police. Wilford, G. H. (Castle House, 1914-20), Capt. Comdg. Coy., K.O.Y.L.I. Wilford, J. E. R. (Castle House, 1914-19), Lt.-Commder. R.N.R. Wilkes, P. D. (Day Boy, 1927-31), Lt., R.E. Wounded at Dunkirk. Wilkes, J. A. (School House, 1933-34), 2nd Lt., R.A. Wood, H. W. (Day Boy, 1931-34), Pte., Welsh Guards. Wood, R. H. N. (Hostel, 1919-27), Bombay Grenadiers, N.W. Frontier, India. Woodhouse, P. H. B. (School House, 1918-26), Capt., General Staff, 45th Divn. Woodrow, W. O. H. (Day Boy, 1921-22), A.A., R.A. Wootten, E. W. (Day Boy, 1933-36), D.F.C., Flight-Lt., R.A.F. Wyatt, G. C. (Day Boy, 1927-30), R.A.F. Wynne-WooIIey, J. S. (Natland, 1929-31), 2nd Lt., Worcs. Regt. Yarnold, A. S. (Day Boy, 1929-36), Sgt.-Instr., R.E. Prisoner of War. Yeomans, C. H. (Castle House, 1927-29), Sub-Lt., R.N.
HOUSE NOTES. SCHOOL HOUSE.
December, 1941
these defeats, not so much with resignation as with a kind of perverse pride ! We are certain, however, that no more cups will be wrenched from our grasp, since, alas, there are none left to us to lose ! Despite this somewhat sorry state of affairs, we have high hopes of success in the "Belows" competition in the Easter term, and see no reason to belittle our chances of gaining the Fives Cup, and on looking into the matter, we are gratified to find that the House Section Shield may yet be in our hands. In December, Thawley and Sampson are going up to Oxford to take Scholarship examinations; we are sure the House wishes them every success, though, they themselves seem rather doubtful as to their prospects. Before closing, we would like to say how glad we are that Miss Heynes is now back among us once more; we very much missed her during her short illness.
CASTLE HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : J. H. Coles, J. G. Morris, N. Money. Although our numbers are reduced to 18, it has been possible to place a very good House Rugger team in the field which has won both the matches it has played so far. In the match against School House, McKenzie was unfortunately disabled by a kick on the head which prevented his further playing, and Smith was unable to play because of vaccination. Three new boys entered the House this term, Parry, Feuer, and D. R. A. Williams. No boys are leaving the house until the end of next summer term, so perhaps our numbers will have a chance to increase. We congratulate Irving on obtaining a K.S. We also wish Coles good luck in his forthcoming scholarship examination at Cambridge. Morris has been appointed Under Officer in the J.T.C. and has also been made a school monitor. The whole house joins in saying " congratulations" to Morris and Lambert for obtaining their 1st XV caps and colours, Morris for the second time. At the end of last term we won the Senior Rowing Cup. The rowers were Ellison, stroke; Coles, 3; Morris, 2; Watkins, bow; and Kemp cox. Three of these, Coles, Ellison and Morris were in the School 1st IV. Kemp, who coxed the four very well, was a newcomer to rowing that term. We won the House Shooting Cup at the end of last term as well. The members of the team were Coles, Havard, Morris and King.
MONITORS : D. L. Thawley, C. R. Sampson, J. V. T. Wilson, R. H. K. Goss, R. J. Castle. When we reassembled after the Summer holidays we were sorry to discover that many of the senior people in the House had left. A. J. Wilson came back at the beginning of the term, but unfortunately he had to leave us a few days later. He assures us that he is now working hard for his School Certificate. This we find somewhat hard to believe, but we wish him all success. The House has been well represented in the 1st and 2nd XV's; nevertheless we have not succeeded in distinguishing ourselves in the House Rugger Competition, for we lost all our matches. We are beginning to accept
HOSTEL. HOUSE MONITORS : J. F. B. Russell, J. M. Ansell, D. S. Shovelton. On our return this term we found our numbers once again reduced by the loss of Cant, Hinson and Page, but we are glad to welcome Champion and Sellicks, the latter having come over from Chappel's. Unfortunately we also lost Hammersley soon after the beginning of term.
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Russell is to be congratulated on becoming a school monitor, and Ansell and Shovelton on being appointed house monitors. That we have done nothing brilliant in house rugger this term is due largely to the fact that we have so few from whom to choose our team. We have only won one of our four matches, but the senior members have played hard, and recently we unearthed a cyclonic threequarter in R. S. Martindale. The house rowers only just failed to get the Junior Rowing Cup last term; Ansell won the Senior Sculling, and Rowlands was second in the Junior. Hammersley had bad luck when he rammed the bank, otherwise he might have done well. The tub four came second and was beaten in the final by Creighton's. We have gained a temporary respite from early morning P.T. as it is now too dark, but we are informed (and how !) that it will be resumed at the earliest possible moment. The classroom has suddenly blossomed forth as model aeroplane and ship builders, and all day long the table is littered with wood, dope(s), glue, etc. We shall be very sorry to lose Russell at the end of this term, who hopes to enter the R.A.F. through the University Short Course.
and Marshall. Perhaps, with this same four, the house may be serious challengers for the Senior Cup next year. Marshall, who was the dark horse of our four, surprised our expected champions by gaining a pleasing victory in the final of the Junior Sculls. In the third competition we rose above expectations by coming second in the house shooting. This term has seen the achievement of our greatest ambition. After several evenly contested matches, the cherished Rugger Cup is in our possession for the first time since the house was formed. Our success was due, mainly, to being able to field a team of almost even size. We had two representatives in the 1st XV in Green, who was appointed Hon. Secretary, and Curtis. Ayrton, Burchard, Tolley, Cullis, B. Papps and Marshall have all found places in the 2nd XV. Our latest success, the winning of the Rugger Cup, has shown that the exodus of several senior members last term has only served as a stimulus to the rest. We regretted losing Cullis a few days prior to the final all important house match. With four trophies to our credit we can claim to have emulated any of our predecessors and our shelf in the reading room has lost its deserted look, which seems to have crossed to the mantelpiece.
CHAPPEL'S HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : K. S. Flay, J. B. Partridge, S. M. Moore, J. A. Charlish.
RUGGER NOTES.
This term we lost several senior members, but fifteen new boys joined us. Consequently the number of the House is large but the average age is exceptionally low. At the end of last term Flay won the Individual Shooting Cup. And this term K. Evans was awarded a King's Scholarship. Flay was reawarded his 1st XV cap and colours and Charlish and Moore played regularly for the 1st XV; Partridge and Pontecorvo played for the 2nd XV. In the House matches we lost only to Creighton's in an evenly contested game. The House forwards were all of equal size and we had two fast threequarters, but we were unable to find a fly-half to provide the link between the forwards and the threequarters. We regret that very few members of the House ever play games on whole school days and nineteen play no games at all. This is partly due to the difficulty of obtaining games clothes. However, the junior members who do play show considerable enthusiasm and promise.
Sat., Oct. llth, Worcester Rugby Club—Home Lost 5-12 Sat., Oct. 18th, St. Edward's 2nd XV—Away Lost 3-16 Sat., Oct. 25th, Dean Close—Away Lost 9-12 Tues., Oct. 28th, Hereford Cathedral School—Home Lost 3-5 Sat., Nov. 8th, Magdalen College School—Away Won 14-5 Wed., Nov. 12th, Warwick—Home CANCELLED Sat., Nov. 15th, Cheltenham College 2nd XV—Home Lost 6-15 Sat., Nov. 22nd, Sebright—Away Won 30-3 Sat., Nov. 29th, Monmouth—Home CANCELLED Sat., Dec. 6th, Old Vigornians—Home Sat., Dec. 13th, Worcester Rugby Club—Home Wed., Dec. 17th, Worcester Royal Grammar School—
1ST.
CREIGHTON'S HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : A. G. Green, W. G. Cullis, W. R. Curtis, E. V. Burchard. The house crowned the first year back from Criccieth by a week of success at the end of the summer term. We won two and were placed second in a third, of three inter-house competitions. Our first success was when the house section, ably led by L./Cpl. Cullis, won the Section Shield. Secondly we succeeded in winning the Junior Rowing Cup, which had for so long been a boarder monopoly. Our tub four consisted of Burchard, Curtis, B. Papps
XV.
2ND XV. Sat., Oct. 25th, Dean Close 2nd XV—Away Lost 3-27 Sat., Nov. 8th, Magdalen College School 2nd XV—Away Won 11-6 Sat., Nov. 22nd, Sebright 2nd—Away CANCELLED Sat., Nov. 29th, Monmouth Colts—Home CANCELLED Wed., Dec. 17th, Worcester Royal Grammar School 2nd XV IST XV. While practising in the first few weeks of the term for the matches which were to follow, the school team showed some very promising form. The backs were exceptionally strong because last year's stand-off, Green, the two wing threequarters, Morris and Flay, and one of the centres, Russell, were all in the team once more. There was a great deal of competition for the vacant centre threequarter position and finally it was filled by Charlish. During the first matches it was found that
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the threequarters were not receiving the ball soon enough after the scrums and line-outs, and a new scrum-half was substituted. The threequarters and halves are the speediest that the school has had for some time. They handle the ball well and do not lack skill in attack. Their weakness at first lay in their defence which was too often pierced, and although the tackling has improved, it is not, as a whole, very good. They do not lack the power to score and to go through on their own, but somehow or other they have just failed to pull it off a number of times. This is partly due to the fact that they have had to play on the defensive a great deal owing to the weakness of the forwards. It is rather unusual for the school to have weak forwards and strong backs, however this is the case at the moment. A number of the forwards seem to lack the initiative which was so evident last year. One reason for this may possibly be found in the fact that only one member of last year's 1st XV remains and only five of the 2nd XV. Thus the majority lacked experience at first; but that fatal hesitation to act has not yet been overcome. In nearly every match the school pack has been beaten in the tight scrums. The opposing forwards have, it is true, been considerably heavier than our own, but the school has nearly always had to give away weight and the scrum is no lighter than it was last year. There is no lack of spirit; what is lacking is the ability to change that spirit into really effective action. Lest this account should appear too black it must be emphasised that, except in the latter half of the Dean Close match, the forwards have not been really overwhelmed. This might also be said of the team as a whole, for we have never been decisively beaten, in fact, in a number of the matches we have been unlucky to lose by very slender margins when we ought to have won. All along we have admitted that one team has to lose but we have a feeling we ought not to have been that team.
IST XV. CHARACTERS. A. H. Armstrong (Full Back). He is inclined to be slow but he is a sure tackier when he gets to his man. He has improved considerably in the last few matches. * J. G. Morris (Left Wing). A good strong runner who has now developed a useful " hand-off." He has been of great value to the side. J. A. Charlish (Left Centre). He has a good turn of speed and runs straight. He took some time to adapt himself to his position but has improved a great deal and with more experience will be very good. J. F. B. Russell (Right Centre). Though he has sometimes been disappointing in matches he has the makings of a really good centre. He is quick to see an opening and has realised the value of the short punt in attack. His defence is sound. * K. S. Flay (Right Wing). A very fast wing with a useful side-step. He is a resolute runner and has been responsible for many tries. Only a certain weakness in defence makes him fall short of a first class player. * A, G. Green (Standoff Half) Sec. A very resourceful player who has been the mainstay of the backs. He gets his threequarters moving and is always at hand to take a reverse pass. He kicks and tackles well and has very sound football sense.
December, 1941
J. V. T. Wilson (Scrum Half). He has filled this position for the last few matches and has proved his worth. He gives a good pass from the scrum and his defence is excellent. * J. H. Coles (Wing Forward) Capt. He has played consistently well this term. He is showing more dash than he did last year and both his defensive " covering " when his side is under pressure and his intelligent backing up in attack have been invaluable. He catches the ball well in the line-out, although he is still inclined to be slow in his handling. The scrum has not altogether responded to his leadership, but it is not his fault that it—and the team as a whole—lacks the incisiveness and cohesion in attack and quick determination in defence which make a matchwinning machine. * R. W. Lambert (Middle Back Row). He has proved a most effective forward. His speed and resolution in attack and his aggressive play in a maul have set an example that for the most part has been too little followed. He can dribble well but is inclined, like most of the side, to kick the ball too far ahead. He will learn with experience that he can do more useful work in the tight scrums by getting lower. I hope that he will avoid the bad habit of waiting to pick up a chance on the fringe of the loose instead of "going to it" himself as long as there is breath in his body. J. M. Ansell (Wing Forward). Is a consistently hard worker and gets a splendid amount of shove for his size in the tight scrums. He is quite often to be seen leading a break-through in the loose, but even his effectiveness is lessened by a tendency to shove "blind" instead of intelligently anticipating the run of the ball and breaking quickly after it. W. R. Curtis (Hooker). Another hard worker who is not afraid to be'in the thick of the maul and to go down on the ball. He also tackles lower than most of the other forwards—a weakness of the team as a whole. He is handicapped by being a slow runner. As hooker he has done fairly well against scrums which too often have been able to push us off the ball. D. L. Thawley (Second Row). As a second-row forward he has not been altogether successful in the tight scrums, for he is rather too big for his partner and is slow in getting his feet out of the way when the ball is coming through. But he works hard in the loose. He would be much more useful in defence if he would tackle much lower and more quickly. S. M. Moore (Front Row). After a promising start in practice games he has proved disappointing in matches. His size is sometimes an asset and he can be a formidable opponent when he has broken through. But he is too often a "passenger" and gives the impression of not training sufficiently. He would certainly dislike hard knocks less if he made himself harder. B. J. Mallett (Front Row). A useful second-row forward who is always trying. He is good at getting the ball back in the line-out and he uses his feet quite well. But he is slow and is handicapped by having short sight. D. S. Shovelton (Second Row). Towards the end of the term his play has improved considerably. His weakness is that he is inclined to be slow and clumsy, although he tried hard. He too is handicapped by poor sight. C.P.L. * Indicates Cap and Colours.
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THE VIGORNIAN. 2ND XV.
The 2nd XV have been rather unlucky in that two of their matches have been cancelled this season; but from their performance in the two matches they have played, it is possible to give a fairly reliable account of the team. In their first match against Dean Close, on foreign ground, they were beaten fairly decisively. The forwards, heavy but very slow, were half asleep at the beginning of the game and did not wake up until after half-time when it was too late. They prevented any further scoring, but were unable to attack effectively. The threequarters were considerably weakened by the loss of two of their members and consequently they were unable to attack or defend very strongly. Two things stood out very clearly in this match, the slowness of the forwards and the numerous weak spots in the threequarter line. At Magdalen the team still displayed their inability to take the initiative at the beginning of the game, but after a short while the forwards really did begin to play hard and they were ably backed up by a threequarter line which had been changed in the interval between the two matches. Painter scored two tries and McKenzie one, one being converted by Money. This match proves that the team can play well once it has got into its stride and it shows much promise for the future. JUNIOR RUGGER. The juniors have had more rugger this year than in the previous one. The pitches did not become unplayable until a much later date this year and every possible opportunity for junior games was taken. The one handicap has been the clothes rationing scheme which has prevented a nuVnber of boys from playing games. Most of the juniors are extremely young and extremely small, but there is plenty of enthusiasm for the game. There is also plenty of talent and when they have grown a bit and have gained some muscle they should develop into good players. MATCHES. SCHOOL v. WORCESTER RUGGER CLUB. Lost, 12-5. (4 tries—1 goal). The first match of the season was played in perfect rugger weather on the school pitch. The team's performance was very promising against a side which had the advantage in age, height and weight. The forwards were rather weak in the tight scrums, but they managed to hold their own in the line-outs and the loose. The backs showed a great deal of initiative and speed in attack and often looked dangerous. Their defence however was rather weak against the heavier opposing centres and a number of difficult situations were saved by the desperate backing up of the forwards. The school scored first, a try by Russell, which was converted by Green. After that Worcester began to press hard and although the game was open to the end, the Worcester team did most of the attacking. TEAM :—A. H. Armstrong, J. G. Morris, N. Money, J. F. B. Russell, K. S. Flay, A. G. Green, M. S. Clarke, J. H. Coles, D. L. Thawley. J. M. Ansell, W. R. Curtis, D. S. Shovelton, S. M. Moore, R. W. Lambert, B. J. Mallett.
SCHOOL v. ST. EDWARD'S OXFORD 2ND XV. Lost 3-16 (1 try—2 goals, 2 tries). Played at Oxford in a gale blowing straight down the pitch the standard of rugger on both sides was not exceptionally good. The game was rather ragged and it was a situation in which a win was inevitable for the side with the greater weight and initiative. The St. Edward's pack was heavier and more skilful than the school's, and they maintained their advantage in the tight scrums and in the loose. Their backs showed superior finish and knowledge of the game, and the school defence was often penetrated. In the first half, although they had the wind behind them, the school team failed to score, and in the second half the result was never doubtful. Flay scored the only school try after a 'scrappy' movement and a kick ahead. The school performance was rather disappointing and the team as a whole never really woke up. TEAM :—A. H. Armstrong, J. G. Morris, N. Money, J. F. B. Russell, K. S. Flay, A. G. Green, M. S. Clarke, J. H. Coles, D. L. Thawley, J. M. Ansell, W. R. Curtis, S. M. Moore, R. W. Lambert, B. J. Mallett, J. G. W. Ayrton. SCHOOL v. DEAN CLOSE IST XV. Lost 9-12 (3 tries—2 tries, 2 penalties). The following is the account of the match submitted to The Times by Dean Close. " Dean Close beat King's School, Worcester, at Cheltenham by 12 points to 9. Play was very even. In the first half Worcester were the more dangerous attacking side and scored a clever try, to which Dean Close replied with a penalty goal. In the second half the Dean Close forwards dominated the game, but their backs found it difficult to pierce a resolute defence. Worcester scored again; Dean Close then got a second penalty goal and two tries. Near the end Worcester scored a third try and were attacking at the finish. The tackling of both sides was very keen." TEAM :—A. H. Armstrong, K. S. Flay, J. F. B. Russell, J. V. T. Wilson, J. A. Chariish, A. G. Green, M. S. Clarke, J. H. Coles, D. L. Thawley, J. M. Ansell, R. W. Lambert, W. R. Curtis, B. J. Mallett, J. G. W. Ayrton, S. M. Moore. SCHOOL v. HEREFORD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL IST XV. Lost 3-5 (1 try—1 goal). The match was played at home on soft but fairly dry ground. From the start the home team Was on top, and although once more the forwards were beaten in the tight scrums they held their own in the line-outs and loose and gave the backs a number of good openings. These were all utilized to good advantage and much ground was made by the movements which, however, did hot result in tries. The visiting team was confined to its own half during the greater part of the game and their backs never looked dangerous. The school scored the first try, but Green's kicking was unfortunately not up to its usual good standard and lie failed to convert from this try and a number of penalties around the goal.
December, 1941
THE VIGORNIAN.
246
At half-time the school was 3 points up, and when play was resumed the attack was continued. Although the threequarters executed some skilful and fast movements, they never completed them by scoring. Hereford scored from a break through by a single man who was tackled unsuccessfully by at least four of the home team. The school struggled hard to gain the lead again but that lack of finish made scoring impossible. As in the match against Dean Close the school team left the field feeling that they had had the best of the game and ought to have won it. TEAM :—A. H. Armstrong, K. S. Flay, J. F. B. Russell, J. A. Charlish, J. G. Morris, A. G. Green, M. S. Clarke, J. H. Coles, D. L. Thawley, J. M. Ansell, R. W. Lambert, W. R. Curtis, B. J. Mallett, J. G. W. Ayrton, D. S. Shovelton. SCHOOL v. MAGDALEN COLLEGE SCHOOL IST XV. Won 14-5 (1 goal, 3 tries—1 goal). Played at Oxford in perfect weather, the match was the first victory of the season. The game was hard and open, and the two packs were evenly balanced while the school backs played a good game. In contrast to the preceding match they showed that they no longer lacked the ability to score. The handling was good, and their speed in attack was only equalled by their tenacity in defence. Magdalen scored first about fifteen minutes after the kick-off, and this served to put the school team on its mettle. The forwards, who were heeling the ball as often as their opponents, provided openings for the backs who used them well. Green, Charlish and Moore scored. The first try, scored by Moore was converted by Green and at half-time the scores were level. In the second half whenever the backs were in an attacking position they pressed their advantage home. In the last ten minutes Magdalen pressed desperately to gain points and Morris distinguished himself in an equally desperate defence. It was a good game in which the laurels went to the school backs. TEAM :—-A. H. Armstrong, K. S. Flay, J. F. B. Russell, J. A. Charlish, J. G. Morris, A. G. Green, J. V. T. Wilson, J. H. Coles, D. L. Thawley, J. M. Ansell, R. W. Lambert, S. M. Moore, W. R. Curtis, B. J. Mallett, D. S. Shovelton.
although the visitors scored again, were still attacking at the end when Flay again went over to score in the SCHOOL v. SEBRIGHT SCHOOL WOLVERLEY IST XV. Won 30 pts.—3 pts. (3 goals, 5 tries—1 penalty goal). Played at Sebright on a dry pitch and in a high wind, the match cannot be quoted as a classic example of good rugger. Although the school scored a decisive victory and dominated the game, the team as a whole did not play well and most of the tries were scored from individual runs. The forwards were often on top, but at times they made some very bad mistakes. The threequarters also, although they were superior to their opponents in skill and speed, dropped their passes and played a very 'scrappy' game. Green was kicking well in spite of the wind; he converted three tries and just missed a well judged drop kick. The scorers were Flay, Charlish, Green, Morris, Curtis and Coles. HOUSE MATCHES. The House Matches started soon after half-term and are now almost over. The finish promises to be an exciting one. For Creighton's, Castle and Chappel's houses are still in the running. The following diagram illustrates the position at the moment.
5 SCHOOL
...
0
a o
u3
K £
0
n
2
n
2
0
o
0
CASTLE HOSTEL
0
0
n
CHAPPEL'S
0
n
2
2
SCHOOL v. CHELTENHAM COLLEGE 2ND XV.
CREIGHTON'S
n
2
2
2
Lost, 6-15 (2 tries—5 tries).
FINAL SCORE :—Creighton's 1st; Castle, Chappel's 2nd; Hostel 3rd; School House 4th.
The match was played at home on a wet pitch which was very soon badly cut up. It was, in fact, a day upon which forward play was absolutely essential, and it served to show up the weakness of the school pack. Cheltenham had heavy forwards who gave the school very little opportunity to attempt forward rushes and consequently the school pack never really developed a strong attack. The situation was partially saved by the school backs who handled the wet ball very skilfully. At half-time the visiting team were leading by nine points to nil. In the second half K. S. Flay, who had come in from the wing, cut through the opposing threequarters to score a very clever try after a run of about fifty yards. The school then rallied desperately, and,
J.T.C. NOTES. Last term's leavers have been more than made up by recruits. This increase in our numbers is encouraging, for it is now more essential than ever for boys to join the J.T.C. at an early age, as will be seen from the following paragraph.
The War Office has just sent out details of the new Certificate "A." In future, Certificate "A" will be taken in two parts. The first part, the Individual
December, 1941
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THE VIGORNIAN.
Certificate, will be taken at the age of fifteen, and the second part, the Section Leader's Certificate, at sixteen. This will enable recruits to join young, and to receive a useful military grounding. When they have passed the Individual Certificate they may either transfer to the A.T.C. and work for the Proficiency Certificate (which requires a high standard in Mathematics), or they may remain in the J.T.C. and take the second part of Certificate "A." * * * Field-Day this term was on Friday, October 24th. We spent the day on Brockeridge Common, where we were able to make good use of the ground which lends itself so well to Fieldcraft training. In the morning, this term's Certificate "A" candidates were taken by Captain Strong in Map Reading and the remainder received a lecture on Visual Training, Judging Distances and Fieldcraft. After lunch, we carried out a simple tactical exercise in Fighting Patrols. This was for the special benefit of the Certificate "A" candidates, but everyone found it interesting and instructive. The Certificate "A" Squad, together with No. II Squad, formed the two patrols, while the rest of the Corps took up a defensive position. The patrols had a particularly difficult task, for they had to advance down a long slope which afforded very little cover, while the defence was able to cover them, hidden from view in ground which contained every type of natural cover. On the other hand, the defence had an almost equally difficult task in covering a very long front with only a few men. The defence held their fire until the patrols approached within a hundred yards, and then began to retreat according to a prearranged plan. This enabled the patrols to enter the rough ground and to avail themselves of the good cover. Then the fight became more realistic and exciting, and the patrols were pressing home the attack when the "cease fire" was sounded. As usual, it is impossible to know which side won, but that is immaterial if everyone gained some idea of these simple tactics of modern warfare. On Saturday, November 1st, Corporals Moore and Cullis and Cadets B. Papps and Marshall attended a demonstration of the latest grenades at Norton Barracks.
Sergeant Allsbrook came from Norton Barracks on November 15th, and gave us a lecture on the newGrenades and on the Thompson Sub-Machine Gun. The Corps is always eager to see new weapons and to have them explained, and we should like to thank Sergeant Allsbrook for his instructive lecture, and Captain Stong for arranging for the talk. Since this lecture, we have had another one on the Bren Gun, and we hope for many more lectures in the future. Cadets Lambert, W. R. Goss, and Marshall are representing the Corps at a Weapon Training Course which is being held in Kent from January 3rd to January 10th. We hope they will have a very good time and will learn much that will be beneficial both to themselves and to the Corps. # * *
Promotions and Appointments :— SEPTEMBER, 1941. Sergeant Morris to be Under Officer. Sergeant Green to be C.S.M. OCTOBER, 1941. Corporal J.V.T. Wilson to be Sergeant. Corporal Ansell to be Sergeant. L./Cpl. Shovelton to be Corporal. L./Cpl. A. J. Wilson to be Corporal (Sergt. later). Under Officer Morris to be Captain of Shooting. Under Officer Morris and C.S.M. Green to command No. I Squad (Cert. "A"), Sergeant J. V. T. Wilson to command No. II Squad. Sergeant Ansell to command No. Ill Squad. Corporal Shovelton to command No. IV Squad. L./Cpl. Moore to command No. V Squad. L./Cpl. Cullis to command No. VI Squad. The following Cadets were successful in gaining Certificate "A" this term :— Lambert. Marshall. W. R. Goss. Davidson.
J.T.C. COURSE. Five of us spent a week during the summer holidays at a Weapon Training School in the West of England. Some parts of the syllabus were known to us before we started, but we soon found out that what we did know was nothing to boast about; even the things which we thought we knew thoroughly were found to include much that we found new. In addition we learned a lot of things which were wholly new to us, and our only regret on coming away was that we could not have stayed on longer to become familiar with more tactics still, more modern weapons and more aspects of modern warfare. Our very first impression on arrival at the camp was that we were going to have a good time, a time that would live in our memories for many years to come. We were, for the first time, going to experience army life. We realised we were going to have a good time because, from the very first, we were shown every consideration by the Officers and N.C.O.s, and to the Commanding Officer we should like to give special thanks, for it was he who saw that we had comfortable quarters, firstclass food, and every facility for seeing all that we wished to see. The School was admirably situated, for the broken ground on one side gave opportunity for the most realistic demonstrations, while on the other side was more level ground where we were trained in judging distances and aiming at service targets. These natural assets, helped by the presence of every artificial aid, enabled the instructors to present every lesson in a most vivid and realistic form. The one aspect of the Camp which we did not Like so much was that terrible person who came into our hut at six o'clock in the morning shouting out "Rise and Shine !" at the top of his voice and making as much row as he could by hitting tables and beds with a swaggercane ! However, we got accustomed to this after a few mornings, and the fact that this was our only complaint of the Camp speaks for itself.
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The syllabus included a period of Tabloid Sports each day under the P.T. Instructor. We had made arrangements for holding Tabloid Sports on the last few days of the camp, but wet weather prevented them taking place. In their place, we had to do something indoors, and so the P.T. Instructor gave us some elementary coaching in Unarmed Combat. The most interesting Demonstrations we saw were firstly, the shattering fire power of a Platoon when all arms are firing at the rapid rate of fire; secondly, the trajectory of bullets fired from different ranges, which was shown by means of tracer-bullets; and thirdly, the different Grenades used in the Platoon. We were also given a lecture on Gas by a War Office representative, and on the last day we saw a M.O.I. Film entitled "Friend or Foe ?" This was to give us an idea of how to distinguish between British and German tanks. All these features were most interesting, but if any one incident of the week is to be singled out and chosen as the real high-light, we would probably choose a lecture we heard at a neighbouring camp. It was by a Captain from a well-known regiment who had served in the Somaliland and Abyssinian Campaign. The story he told us about the campaign was amazing, and the details he outlined to us of the Staff work entailed by any small movement of troops made the story of General Cunningham's 2,200 mile advance from Kenya to Addis Ababa an almost unbelievable achievement. On the last morning of the Camp we received a final address from the Commanding Officer. He said that he was very grateful to us, on behalf of the country, for giving up a week of our holidays, but we can assure him that he had made us not the losers, but rather the gainers. If we had lost a week's holiday, we had picked up boundless information, had seen things that we shall never forget, and lastly, we had had our first taste of army life and it had made a very favourable impression on us. A.T.C. NOTES. We reassembled this term with only approximately half our original number of cadets, but recruits were soon forthcoming to swell the ranks and there are now seventeen of us. Even this number is large for a school of our size and it proves that many of the boys in the school are air-minded. All the cadets are keen, and the work, although it is hard, is seldom dull. First we should like to congratulate Cpl. Wharmby and Cdt. Bailey on their election for the R.A.F. University Short Course. Both of them satisfied the R.A.F. Selection Boards and passed their medical examinations, and they are now at Oxford and Durham Universities respectively, on a course which lasts six months. This course is a great opportunity offered by the R.A.F. to cadets of the A.T.C. and the J.T.C. who are between 17 years 9 months and 19 years, and who are recommended by the headmaster. They receive specialized training at a University for six months, and then, if they are training to be pilots, they go immediately to their Elementary Flying Training Wing. The purpose of the course is to create potential commissioned officers by giving them their training as soon as possible. It especially applies to boys who wish to make the Air Force their career. Our long-promised uniforms have at last arrived and the majority of us have been fitted out with them. Recruits do not receive their uniforms until they have
December, 1941
put in a sufficient number of hours training. The uniform itself is very smart and comfortable to wear. It has many advantages and needless to say one of them is the fact that the white-metal buttons and badges require no cleaning. Some miscellaneous equipment arrived about the same time as the uniforms and we received six new R.A.F. practice buzzers, five of which were subsequently returned owing to a shortage. The three cadets who attended the A.T.C. camp last holidays had a very interesting time and two of them were taken up for a three-hour flight in an Anson. This term some of the other cadets have been for short flights which they have thoroughly enjoyed. Those who have not yet been up will have a chance in the near future; it is a grand experience and our only regret is that it does not happen more often. Five cadets took their proficiency certificate in Maths., and Air Navigation, and one in Wireless, a fortnight ago. The results have not yet come through, but we hope that next term we shall have six Leading Air Cadets in our ranks. These cadets are now proceeding with more advanced training in Air Navigation, Meteorology and the use of the Aldis. Eight cadets have passed their morse proficiency test on the buzzer, and the Aldis is proving even more interesting to operate. We have all been on the range many times this term and the majority of the cadets are very keen shots. We hope to have a shooting competition against the J.T.C. before the end of the term, and, on paper, we should beat them this time. We are also holding a handicap shooting competition for members of the A.T.C. only and this promises to be very interesting. In conclusion, we ask once more for new recruits. The new " Certificate A part I " is now in progress, and all those wishing to join the A.T.C. who are over 15 years old should attempt this exam as soon as possible. Ours is no light task, for with the J.T.C. we are training to provide efficient officers to swell the ranks of the forces.
APPOINTMENT. W. R. CURTIS to be Secretary of Shooting, A.T.C., J.T.C. SHOOTING NOTES. The Inter-House Shooting Competition took place at the end of last term. Castle House won the House Cup, and the Individual Cup was won by L./Cpl. Flay (Chappel's House). It was a keen competition and there was some good shooting. This term we have been able to do more shooting than usual, and every member of the J.T.C. has been classified. The results, on the whole, have been extremely promising, some people shooting very well for their first time on the range. It looks as if it is going to be difficult to choose the last members of the School Shooting VIII next term. There have been no matches for the School VIII this term, but we look forward to having some next term. Before the end of the term, the J.T.C. and the A.T.C. hope to be able to shoot against each other.
THE VIGORNIAN.
December, 1941 SCOUT NOTES.
For the first time since the war began, we managed to hold a summer camp—not so far afield as Finsthwaite, but in the meadow between Wick Episcopi and Powick Bridge, by the kind permission of Mr. H. T. Tooby. This proved an excellent site, with the Teme close at hand and splendid country for scouting and games. R. H. Bough, O.V., acted as A.S.M. and A. J. Wilson was Troop Leader. There were three patrols, under Anstey, P. C. Smith and Burchard. Everybody brought his own rations, and as parents interpreted "rations" with uncommon generosity, the task of the storekeepers (Lucas and Clifton) was much easier than that of most housewives. As an experiment, and because of the catering difficulties of war-time, we abandoned patrol cooking for a central kitchen, which the patrols ran in rotation, under the supervision of Lucas, who revealed himself as a first-class chef. The Patrol Competition was won by a narrow margin by Anstey's Patrol, which was awarded the customary pennants. The weather was varied, and it was unfortunate that heavy rain should have marred the tea-party at which we welcomed a number of parents. The Troop owed a deep debt of gratitude to Dr. Cavenagh, O.V., and Mrs. Cavenagh, of Wick Episcopi, some part of which we endeavoured to repay by several hours work in their garden.
A large number of Scouts joined in the Local Association's Rally on the Malvern Hills during the summer holidays to collect foxglove leaves for medicinal purposes, and we have also taken our share in the collecting and drying of nettles, which were required for the extraction of the green pigment chlorophyll.
This term we have supplemented the Patrol Meetings by weekly Troop Meetings, and much useful progress has been made in signalling as well as with the routine tests. Next term we hope to arrange First Aid lectures, and to obtain a number of signalling and first aid badges. We had a very enjoyable Field Day on what is left (after the extensive ploughing-up) of Kempsey Common.
PLAY READING SOCIETY. At our first meeting this term we read "Thunder Rock," by Robert Audrey. The scene throughout the whole of the play is a room in a light-house on Lake Michigan. Charleston, the light-house keeper, reconstructs in his mind the characters of a number of people who lost their lives in a shipwreck, many years before, on the spot where the light-house now stands. The author introduces the 'ghosts' of Charleston's imagination on to the stage. The result is entertaining, if somewhat weird. We chose for our second play "The Fourth Wall," by A. A. Milne. It is a detective play, but the climax of the murder comes much earlier in the play than is usual. The author, however, does not allow our attention to flag, but keeps us on tenterhooks until almost the last scene.
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At our third meeting we read "R.U.R." (Rossum's Universal Robots), by Karel Capek. This play was broadcast a short while ago, and those who heard it were probably surprised at the depth and fierceness of the writer's satire. D.L.T. R.S.P.C.A. This term a Junior Branch of the R.S.P.C.A. has been formed in the school. It is an entirely voluntary organisation which all boys under fifteen may join. Already some forty boys have joined and it is hoped that it will increase in numbers next term. The Branch has been named The Swallows, and is divided into eight sections under Tierney, M. P. G. Mills, D. R. A. Williams, R. A. Williams, Watson, Mannion, Tyson and Pugh, with Mont as liaison, L. Phillips as secretary, and T. Barter as treasurer. We thank Mr. Macdonald for all the trouble he has taken to make the organisation a success and we feel sure that the work will be rewarded. G.J.T. M.P.G.M. KING'S SCHOLARSHIPS. As a result of the Examination held in November, the following have been awarded King's Scholarships :— 1. G. L. S. Rankin, Cathedral School, Llandaff. 2. K. Evans, King's School, Worcester. 3. F. G. Fowler, King's School, Worcester. 4. R. A. Irving, King's School, Worcester. 5. J. P. McGill, King's School, Worcester.
THE REFECTORY—1541-1941. (Under the Government's milk distribution scheme for schools, three quarters of a pint per head is delivered daily at College Hall and there consumed during the break). Here, where the monks consumed their frugal fare In the brief intervals 'twixt psalm and prayer, Behold our Scholars, under Woolton's law, Imbibing lacteal substance through a straw.
SALVETE. Modern VI. Andrews, W. T.
Chappel's.
Lower V. Healey, H. N.
School House.
Upper IV. Champion, J. O. C. Hostel. Grennell, E. H. Chappel's. Marks, W. G. School House. Mitchell, J. E. Creighton's. Wootten, E. B. Creighton's.
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Middle IV. Adams, A. T. School House. Feuer, P. H. Castle House. Hughes, P. W. Creighton's. Parry, C. T. Castle House. Prestage, M. H. School House. Stevens, D. L. N. Creighton's. Tansell, P. M. Creighton's. Williams, D. R. A. Chappel's. Lower IV. Bullock, J. M. Creighton's. Cairns, R. A. Creighton's. Edwards, M. R. Chappel's. Everton, B. M. Creighton's. Ford, P. School House. Fisher, J. J. Creighton's. Harley, J. W. Chappel's. Jones, D. H. Creighton's. Jones, T. Chappel's. Laflin, K. W. Creighton's. Mayes, B. J. Chappel's. Mills, E. J. Creighton's. Mannion, A. K. Chappel's. Mont, N. Chappel's. Prestage, P. W. School House. Pugh, C. Creighton's. Powell, R. P. Chappel's. Phillips, A. J. Creighton's. Phelps, G. E. Chappel's. Phelps, J. G. Creighton's. Richards, P. Chappel's. Sadler, B. Chappel's. Tyrrell, A. Chappel's. Wilde, B. J. School House. Watson, H. J. Creighton's. Walls, J. B. School House.
VALETE. SUMMER TERM, 1941. Modern VI. Bailey, A. W. R. (1935-41) Creighton's House. House Monitor, 2nd XV Rugger (1940), Cdt. J.T.C., Cdt. A.T.C., Elected for R.A.F. University Short Course. Harris, D. J. R. (1933-41) Day boys, Chappel's, Castle, Chappel's, Captain of Chappel's, King's Scholar, School Monitor, Captain of the Gym, Editor of The Vigornian, Librarian, 1st XV Rugger 1939 and 1940, 1st IV Fives 1941, 2nd XI Cricket 1941, Shooting VIII 1940-41, C.S.M., J.T.C., Cert. A. 1940, Awarded Dean Peel Leaving Exhibition. Schulhof. T. (1938-41) School House. Wharmby, R. G. E. (1937-41) School House, House Monitor, 2nd XV Rugger 1940, 2nd IV Fives 1940-41, Cert. A. (1940), Corporal J.T.C., Corporal A.T.C., Elected for R.A.F. University Short Course. Maths and Science VI. Cant, B. C. V. (1938-41) Hostel, House Monitor, 1st XI Cricket (1940-41), 2nd XV Rugger (1940), Cert. A. (1941), Corporal J.T.C. Curtis, D. M. (1937-41) Chappel's House, House
December, 1941
Monitor, 1st XI Cricket (1940 and 1941), 1st XV Rugger (1940), Cert. A. (1940), Corporal J.T.C., 1st IV. Fives, 1941. Ellison, S. D. (1937-41) Castle House, House Monitor, 1st XV Rugger (1939 and 1940), Secretary of Rugger, 1st IV Rowing (1941), Captain of Rowing, U./O. J.T.C., Cert. A. (1940), Librarian. Havard, C. (1938-41) Castle House, House Monitor, 1st XI Cricket (1940-41), 1st XV Rugger (1939-40), Secretary of Shooting, Cert. A. (1941), Corporal J.T.C. Upper V. Checketts, S. (1936-41) Chappel's House. Dinsdale, T. K. (1937-41) School House, House Monitor, 2nd XV Rugger (1940), Cadet J.T.C., Cadet A.T.C., 1st Class Drummer. Hinson, G. C. (1940-41) Hostel, House Monitor. King, O. W. (1938-41) Castle House, Secretary of Cricket, 1st XI Cricket (1940-41), 1st XV Rugger (1940), Cert. A. (1941), L./Cpl. J.T.C. Kingsmill, J. (1940-41) Creighton's House. McKerrow, N. (1936-41) School House, House Monitor, 1st XI Cricket (1941), 1st XV Rugger (1940), Captain of Shooting, Drum Major, Sergt. J.T.C., Cert. A. (1940). Malsom, G. E. (1935-41) Creighton's House, House Monitor, 1st XV Rugger (1940), 1st XI Cricket (1941). Taylor, W. (1937-41) School House, House Monitor, 1st XI Cricket (1940 and 1941), 2nd XV Rugger (1941), 2nd IV Fives (1940-41), Cert. A. (1940), Corporal J.T.C., 1st Class Drummer. Travis, A. W. (1939-41) School House, 2nd XV Rugger (1940), Cadet J.T.C., Cadet A.T.C., Shooting VIII (1940-41). Vivante, C. (1939-41) School House, King's Scholar. Williams, M. G. E. (1937-41) School House, King's Scholar, Cadet J.T.C., Cadet A.T.C., 2nd Class Bugler. Watson, P. H. C. (1938-41) School House, King's Scholar, Cert. A. (1941), L/Cpl. J.T.C., 2nd Class Drummer. Warren, E. J. (1940-41) School House, Cadet J.T.C., Cadet A.T.C. Watkins, S. R. (1938-41) Castle House, Cert. A. (1940), L/Cpl. J.T.C., Cadet A.T.C., 1st Class Bugler. Wilson, A. J. (1937-41) School House, Cert. A. (1941), Cpl. J.T.C. Lower V. Christie, J. M. (1941) Chappel's House, Cadet J.T.C. Gregory, E. N. (1940-41) Castle House, Cadet J.T.C. Hadley, D. J. (1940-41) ChappePs House. Upper IV. Hammersley, D. P. (1940-41) Hostel, Cadet J.T.C., Cadet A.T.C., Cert. A. (1941). Scriven, A. (1939-41) Hostel, Cadet J.T.C., 2nd XI Cricket (1941). Middle IV. Page, J. R. (1939-41) Hostel, Cadet J.T.C. Lower IV. Fry, J. A. (1941) Chappel's House.
December, 1941
THE VIGORNIAN.
OXFORD LETTER. To the Editors of " The Vigornian." Dear Sirs, Last term, owing to the expected shortage of members, it was decided that the O.U.O.V.S. must be disbanded. However, we welcomed this term two new members, D. J. Harris and R. G. E. Wharmby, both of Hertford, and as J. A. Lawrey and C. M. Lavender decided to stay up for at least another year, it was agreed that it should continue. No formal meetings have been held, but as three of us are at Hertford, and Lavender occasionally condescends to drop in for a chat, several informal meetings have been held this term. We have been visited lately by A. J. Wilson and O. W. King, and rumour has it that J. L. Warren put in an appearance half way through the term. The School XV came up twice, to play St. Edward's and Magdalen College Schools, and were welcomed at Hertford though they could remain only for a short time. And now to individual activities : J. A. LAWREY (Exeter). Is still a zealous Conservative and is prepared to argue in support of his beliefs at any time or place. Frequents the Union, where he is believed to do some work. Has succumbed to the Oxford fashion of carrying an umbrella, ostensibly for protection against the weather, but perhaps as a handy weapon in the event of invasion. H. W. HINDS (St. Edmund Hall). Little has been seen of this member of our Society, as apparently he does not move in the same circle as the rest of us. He has removed to Bath Place, which seems a little more Bohemian than his former elegant quarters. Has been seen in his gown hurrying to and from lectures, and is known to be doing some work. C. M. LAVENDER (St. Edmund Hall). Now resides in the High, but seldom appears to be in. Can be relied on to fail to keep any appointment he makes; excuses himself by putting his delinquencies down to excess of work. Has joined the Oxford Home Guard, and divides his nights between this and fire-watching. Possesses a gramophone full of mechanical devices of his own invention of which he is justly proud. Is preparing to return to his old subject and take an examination in German. We offer him our sympathies. K. WEDGWOOD (Hertford). Seems to be a busy man socially and knows everyone of importance in the University. Has given up his position as Captain and Coach of the Hertford and Oriel Boat Club and some of his social obligations in favour of more serious work, such as Hebrew, but still sings in the Bach Choir and is the mainstay of the Chapel Choir. Appears in H.G. uniform, in which he is an efficient corporal. D. J. HARRIS (Hertford). Perhaps to the surprise of his acquaintances has led a sedate life this term. Judging from the number of times he has "sported his oak," he has been doing a fair amount of work. Perhaps obtains his inspiration from the array of pipes on his mantelpiece. Finds the Artillery work in the S.T.C. rather complicated. Having done his best to evade the drudgery of Latin for the past three years at school, has now been compelled to read the Institutes of Justinian for Law Mods. R. G. E. WHARMBY (Hertford). Is up for six months on an R.A.F. course, though he seems to spend little time in uniform. For some reason known only to the gods and the higher officials of the R.A.F., has to read
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physics and spends much time experimenting in the Cavendish Laboratories. Declares his intention of getting out to the Middle East as soon as possible. We must conclude by wishing everybody the season's greetings, as happy a Christmas as possible and a more hopeful New Year. Yours sincerely, OXON.
BIRMINGHAM LETTER. Dear Sirs, We have not previously had the privilege of writing in your columns. It is therefore with great pride (and not without a little trepidation) that we make our debut. We hope that this letter will become a regular feature of The Vigornian. D. DENCER, now in his fourth year of Medicine, divides his time between the Queen's Hospital, the Medical School, and the Union. Preparing for a career as a Naval Surgeon, he can make conversation alike on Admirals or Anaphylaxis. At hospital is regularly engaged in removing plasters from truculent patients (they say he has the sharpest teeth in the profession). D. M. CURTIS, a fresher this term, is reading for First M.B., ChB. Often to be seen behind a large retort in the Chemistry lab., or lying in the long grass in S.T.C. uniform. An ardent supporter of the Rhythm Club, may be seen at many Union Dances. J. PIMLEY, in his first year of Dentistry, is still baffled to know why a dentist must learn how many legs has a Black Widow spider. A mainstay of the Rhythm Club, gives frequent expositions on negro drumming. Asserts emphatically that the reason he wears corduroy trousers is to save the coupons. RICHARDSON is reading law. Only appears three days a week, but assures us that he works very hard in a solicitor's office on the other three. Known to friendly S.T.C. Sergeants as 'Buster.' We are, gentlemen, your faithful servants, your Ambassadors in a far-off land, BRUM.
CORRESPONDENCE. To the Editors of " The Vigornian." Dear Sirs, Many schools print their rugger and cricket results in The Times and we have often wondered why the King's School has not followed their example. Many O.V.'s, who have little chance of being in constant touch with the school would, we are sure, be glad to be able to follow our teams. We should like to add that such a course as this would be extremely inexpensive ! To forestall any remarks by the 'Eds. Vig,' we know that this does not concern them personally, but rather the future Hon. Sees, of Rugger and Cricket, and it is to them that this letter is mainly directed. Yours, etc., A.J.W. J.F.B.R.
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To the Editors of " The Vigomian." Dear Sirs, With a great demand for savings, I suggest that a National Savings Group should be started in the School. Yours truly, T. G. G. Griffiths. [There is a National Savings Group in the school at the present moment, but we confess that we were almost as ignorant of its existence as our correspondent, and agree that it should be given much more publicity. Eds. Vig.}
December, 1941
To the Editors of " The Vigornian." Dear Sirs, There is a tarnished cup in the Sixth Form room, for Chess. I feel sure that if the Chess Competition were revived next term, quite a number of people would enter. Who else is interested ? Yours, etc., Enthusiast. CONTEMPORARIES. We acknowledge with thanks the following contemporaries with apologies for any accidental errors or omissions : St. Edward's School Chronicle, St. Michael's Chronicle.