THE
VIGORNIAN
DECEMBER 1950
RUGBY FOOTBALL 1st XV, 1950-51. Standing: M. A. Beckett, T. A. Brown, H F Bennett, K J. Smith, A. J. Campbell, P. K. Birbeck. Seated: R. P. Heath, C. Cartwright, T. Hughes-Williams, A. N. George (Captain), K. J. Beard (Hon. Sec.), J. H. Ford, J. N. Bulman. On Ground: G. S. W. Thomas, N. J. Smith, P. R. Lowes.
M
King's School in Switzerland, Christmas, 1950 (see page 599).
THE VIGORNIAN THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE TA MEN AIAAKTA MAN8ANO, TA A'ETPETA ZHTO, TA A'ETKTA IIAPA 8EON HITHSAMHN.
Vol. XIII.
DECEMBER, 1950. CONTENTS.
Editorial School Officers School Calendar School Notes O.V. News :— Notes Engagements Marriages Births Durham Letter Sandhurst Letter Rugger Match Obituary Notice to O.V's Carol Service The End of Term Entertainment House Notes :— School House Castle House The Hostel Tredennyke House Creighton House . Chappel House Rugger:— Fixtures and Results Notes Characters Cricket Prospects 1st XI Fixtures for 1951 Rowing Prospects Pass-Ball Boxing C.C.F Shooting
Page 585 586 586 586 587 588 588 588 588 589 589 590 590 590 591 951 592 592 592 592 593 593 593 594 595 595 595 595 5% 596 596
Red Cross Music Society ... ... Art Circle Literary Society ... Debating Society Vlth Form Club Valete Wintersport in Switzerland Contributions Correspondence
No. 179. ...
... ...
Page 597 ... 597 597 ... 597 597 598 598 599 600 600
EDITORIAL. We find it hard to believe that the spirit of adventure that animated our ancestors can be entirely lacking in ourselves, yet there is growing up with the modern generation the general expectation that everything will be done for them. How much this is the fault of the present-day political atmosphere is a matter for much discussion. The fact remains that at School one of the first lessons one must learn is to stand on one's own feet. A man must experience the sorrows of fending for himself before he can appreciate the happiness of helping others, and it is at School that we can learn this lesson if we dare. Some of us, at any rate, find it hard to desire the things in life that are not rewarded with tangible certificates or prizes, and must learn to remember that " they that run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize." Yet at the same time it is imperative to run one's hardest, lest the prize winner should have too easy a race. If we remember to seek we shall find, for the more we put into life the more we shall gain from it, and an adventurous heart and a twinkling eye go a long way towards achieving this.
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SCHOOL OFFICERS. - A. G. Jackson Head of the School School Monitors : A. G. Jackson, D. K. Kennedy, K. J. Beard, J. N. Bulman, D. R. P. Bushby, J. D. Farmer, G. J. Hollister-Short, A. N. George. Heads of Houses :— - A. G. Jackson School House - K. J. Beard Castle House J. English The Hostel Tredennyke J. H. Ford - J. N. Bulman Chappel House G. J. Hollister-Short Creighton House - A. N. George Captain of Football K. J. Beard Secretary of Football K. J. Beard Captain of Boats - T. Hughes-Williams Secretary of Boats - A. G. Jackson Captain of Cricket T. A. Brown Secretary of Cricket - A. G. Jackson Captain of Fives K. J. Beard Captain of Athletics - A. N. George Secretary of Athletics D. K. Kennedy Captain of Boxing A. Green Secretary of Swimming Editors of The Vigornian—D. K. Kennedy, A. G. Jackson, G. J. H&llister-Short, R. G. L. Griffiths. Librarians—G. J. Hollister-Short, C. H. Shouler. Secretary of Art Society D. K. Kennedy R. G. L. Griffiths Secretary of Literary Society R. G. L. Griffiths Secretary of Music Society - J. D. Farmer President of Debating Society R. G. L. Griffiths Secretary of Debating Society
Sept. 22 24 Oct. 1 8 15 17 21 22 29 Nov. 5 7 12 16 18 19 23
Dec.
26 3 9 10 14 16 17 18
SCHOOL CALENDAR. Beginning of Term. School Communion. Literary Society. Art Circle. Music Society. Lecture—Mr. Handley Taylor: " International Ballet." First Industry Reports. Literary Society. Art Society. Music Society. Field Day. Literary Society. Stanley's Match—Oxford. Second Industry Report. Art Society. Lecture—Squadron-Leader Desborough : " R.A.F." Music Society. Literary Society. Third Industry Report. Art Society. Certificate ' A.' School Dance. House Suppers. School Communion. Carol Service. Last day of Term. Entertainment.
December, 1950
SCHOOL NOTES. We were very sorry to say good-bye, at the end of last term, to Mr. W. R. Hartley and Mr. W. A. Cummins. We welcome to the staff, Mr. H. Ballance, Mr. J. H. .Frisby and Mr. M. P. W. Britten and wish them every success and happiness here.
We are very sorry that Mr. Pedder has been ill during much of this term, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery. In his absence from House duties, Mr. Carlyle assisted the Hostel as House Tutor, and Mr. M. C. Comer temporarily joined the staff on the mathematics side. We also regret saying good-bye to Mr. Crofts, who has not only served the Cathedral as Minor Canon but has rendered much service to the School. He is to become Vicar of Holywell in Oxford, and we wish him and his family every success. On 28th September, Mrs. Kittermaster very kindly took a party, which included 12 members of the School, to the Elgar Festival. The concert was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone; the programme was very interesting and varied, consisting amongst other things of Elgar's Violincello Concerto in E minor, and Brahms' Symphony in F (No. 3). Our thanks are due to Mrs. Kittermaster for organising the party. On October 17th Mr. Geoffrey Handley-Taylor gave an interesting lecture on the Ballet performing the illustrations himself. On October 20th a free half was granted to the School by request of His Majesty's Judge of Assize. During the morning members of the School attended the Court at the Shire Hall. A film on the elementary tactics and essentials of Rugby Football was shown to all those who play the game in the School on 23rd October. This was at the request of Mr. D. B. J. McTurk, and although of an introductory nature, it proved useful later on the playing fields. S./Ldr. Desborough gave a lecture on the possibilities of the R.A.F. for those soon joining the Forces. This was attended by all members of the C.C.F. on Nov. 23rd. On November 24th the Headmaster gave a lecture on Rugby Football. He explained various new tactics, and also the formation of the team, pointing out the various responsibilities of the members.
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THE VIGORNIAN.
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A very enjoyable evening was spent by fifteen senior monitors of the School, when they went to a small party given by the Dean and Mrs. Beck on December Sth. It was a surprise invitation and appreciated by everyone. It is very comforting to feel that we have in the Governors a body who take an interest not only in the School but also personally in its members.
placed in the room and their well-executed design blends excellently, with the wooden beams of the ceiling. It is to be hoped that members of the School, when they reach the Vlth Form, will treat the library with the care and attention it deserves. It is after all, specially set aside for their use and they should assist in making it a ' fit home for the Muses.'
The School Dance took place as usual in College Hall on December 14th. It was a distinct success, and with a seasonable back-ground of Christmas decorations, the evening passed all too quickly. Dennis Wheeler's Band provided the accompaniment. During the dance a bouquet was presented to Mrs. Kitterraaster with sincere thanks from the School for the very generous and kindly interest which she has always shown in our activities.
The Carol Service was notable for the fact that it was the last time that Mr. E. F. Day will conduct the School choir. We are very grateful to him for all the trouble he has taken to give the School a presentable choir.
The Annual Carol Service was held in College Hall on December 17th. Mr. E. F, Day conducted the attractive selection of Carols, which more than ever conjured up the spirit of Christmas. A full report is to be found elsewhere. The term ended on a happy note with the School Entertainment on the evening of Monday, December 18th. The collection, as at the Carol Service, was in aid of the Tower Restoration Fund. The increased numbers of the School—the total now stands at 501-—necessitated the erection of another prefabricated building. It is situated near the Carpentry Shop and was constructed, without any outside assistance, by members of the School under the direction of Mr. Reg Smith, Clerk of the Works to the Cathedral. There has always been a keen desire for hockey in the Easter term. We hope that next term it will be possible for a few members of the School to play on Perdiswell. Mr. P. G. L. Curie, an Oxford Hockey Blue, will be the master in charge. The Fives Courts were being repaired during the term and thus there has been no opportunity for any games to be played. It is hoped that next term more people will be able to play Fives regularly and that a high standard may be reached in future years. There is the possibility of an O.V. Fives match. It is a very gratifying thing that at last the Old VI th Form Room should be a place of quiet reading and study. New book shelves were installed at the end of the Summer term and these are slowly but surely assuming a mantle of books. New lights were installed this term, since the new blocks of shelves rendered the existing arrangements inadequate. New writing tables have been
This term we continued the exchange scheme with Schondorf [and while A. Green spent a valuable three months in Germany, we had H. Oexle and M. Kohlass as visitors in School House.
O.V. NEWS. Before we began compiling this term's Vigornian we hoped that the contributions from O.V.s would be of much greater volume than in past years. However it seems that we shall be disappointed once more. When members of the School leave and continue to take an interest in the School's affairs it should be possible for them to follow the fortunes of their contemporaries in the O.V. News. Very often they have lost touch with their old friends and acquaintances and would welcome news of them, however scanty. We will therefore preface the O.V. News with an appeal to all O.V.s to send us news of their careers and appointments so that some community of interest may be created in the School magazine for all old boys. A. R. Thomas (Day Boy 1937-42) has passe., the Intermediate and Final Examinations of the Institute of Hospital Administrators (Inc.) and has been elected Associate Member of the Institute. He is at present an Administrative Assistant at Warlingham Park Hospital, Surrey, which lies within the area of the South West Metropolitan Regional Hospital Board. P. G. F. Higginson (Hostel 1940-42) is with the Vacuum Oil Co., Kenya as a travelling salesman and both he and his brother, J. N. Higginson (Hostel 194344), who are keen golfers, are engaging in a School's Golf Competition over the New Year. The latter has a situation in an Architect's office in Kenya. P. W. N. Janes (Castle 1943-46) is working for his B.A. at St. Chad's College, Durham University. He intends, afterwards, to study for a Diploma in Theology. (See Durham Letter).
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Lt./Col. T. O'D. Lumley, (Day Boy 1921-28) is at present a District Commissioner in the Gold Coast.
C. A. Myers, (Day Boy 1935-39) who has been appointed Organist of Cliltheroe Church, Lancashire, is Director of Music of the Boys' and Girls' Schools there and will be lecturing in the very near future at Manchester University (see below). A. H. S. Powell, (School 1921-29) is teaching at the District High School of Putaruru, New Zealand.
J. M. Sharp, (1924-45) who has joined the R.A.F. on a five years' engagement is now studying the oboe and piano at the R.A.F. School of Music, Uxbridge. He hopes to be posted to the Central Band of the R.A.F. as 2nd oboist next April. P. R. Oades, (School 1938-40) is now an Assistant Master at Spalding Grammar School (see below).
F. L. Steward, (1897-1903) is Chairman of the Governors of the Royal Wolverhampton School, and has recently written a history of the school from its founding early in the 19th century. Mr. Steward has presented the School with an autographed copy of the work which has been placed in the Sixth Form Library. 2nd/Lt. D. C. Tyson (Chappel 1941-47) is at present serving with the British Forces in Malaya, and some time ago took an active part in the ambush and shooting of two Chinese terrorists. D. L. Frape, (Castle 1940-47) is studying at present at Reading University and we heard that he had appeared as hooker in the University Rugby XV. A. I. Taverner, (Creighton 1943-50) is now at Birmingham University studying Electrical Engineering and plays regularly for Worcester R.F.C. B. XV at the week ends. H. J. Watson, (Creighton 1941-48) is at present with the Imperial Bank of Iran in London, and hopes, ultimately to secure a post in Persia. J. D. Evans, (Castle 1927-34) now holds the military staff appointment of W.A.D.S.T., East Anglian Diitrict, Eastern Command.
December, 1950
ENGAGEMENT. J. R. Laird, (Chappel 1945-48) to Lt. Maureen Noonan of H.M. Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps, younger daughter of Mrs. Noonan, Co. Cork, Eire, on 26th October, 1950, in Egypt. MARRIAGES. C. A. Myers, (Day Boy 1938-39) on 29th August, 1950, to Charlotte Rowena Jenner of Hereford. B. S. Eckersley, (Castle 1930-37) on 26th August, 1950, to Margaret Elizabeth Banks, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. V. K. Banks of Stamford, Lincolnshire. BIRTHS. J. S. Pressdee (Day Boy 1931-35), on 26th October, 1950—a daughter. G. A. Welford (Castle 1914-20) to Josephine, on 19th September, 1950—a daughter. P. R. Oades (School 1938-40) to Eileen, on 24th October, 1950—a daughter. W. K. Beard (Day Boy 1929-32) on 31st August, 1950—a son. * * * A. L. Flay (Day Boy 1922-30) to Kathleen, on December 13th, 1950—a son. J. G. Ranford (Day Boy 1935-39) to Mildred, on December 20th, 1950—a daughter.
DURHAM LETTER. To the Editors of " The Vigomian" DEAR SIRS, To the best of our knowledge this is the first " Durham Letter " that has been sent to The Vigornian, but since there are now five O.V.s up in residence here, we feel that it is a suitable time to institute a letter from the O.V. motley at the northernmost English University. J. O. C. Champion, St. Chad's College (Hostel 19411945) is reading for the second year of the Diploma in Theology, having apparently satisfied the examiners for the B.A. in June 1949. His chief sport is crosscountry running for the University, and he is now the possessor of a half-Palatinate. He has also been seen on the River Wear, rowing for the college. Since St. Chad's is a theological college as well as an ordinary university college and he is in his last year there, he
December, 1950
THE VIGORNIAN.
says he feels that he should limit his activities outside the college" this year; but he feels that he has had his share of the full life of a university. M. J. Darlington, St. Cuthbert's Society (Creighton 1940-1944; Hostel 1944-1945) is in the final year of an Honours degree in French; it is said that he has been seen near the University library though no one has ever reported seeing him in it. He is however frequently seen in the Union engaged in earnest conversation concerning the academic approach to Rugby, Cricket, Fives—and other sports. He is, in fact, Captain of the 'Varsity Fives Club and partnered another Durham man in the winning of the North of England Fives Championships last spring. Although last year he assured us he looked forward to a life of bachelordom he has now revised his opinions and appears to be a doomed man. Of his hobbies we can say little, since these have been mentioned already. P. W. N. Janes, St. Chad's College (Castle 1943-1946) came to St. Chad's this term and is reading for the B.A. in General Arts. He is a great asset to the college Rugby Club and has also tried rowing, but after his first outing in a boat with fixed seats he found it necessary to eat his tea standing up, and we have since noticed a distinct decline in his enthusiasm for what is considered here the elite sport. He deplores the barbarous practice of afternoon lectures and is unconvinced by the explanation that one comes to a university primarily for work. Nevertheless we notice no disinclination on his part to wield pen or page when required, which in these days of rising examination standards, is becoming more and more frequent. He threatens next term to shatter the academic calm of roads about the colleges by means of a contrivance described under the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations 1947 as a " motor car or motor tricycle equipped with means for reversing," which he asserts " is really very quiet when the silencer is on." A. R. Kemp, King's College (Castle 1940-1944), after taking a B.Sc. and an A.R.I.C. at Regent Street Polytechnic came to the University last year for a postgraduate course for the M.Sc. in chemical engineering. Since he is at the Newcastle division of the University he is seen in Durham less frequently, and he is loud in his complaints of the sanguinary route march between the Union and the laboratories. His many activities include converting the University laboratories into a dye-works for his own commercial undertakings, and stirring the hearts of the fair sex by his prowess in Morris and Sword dancing and Northumbrian barn dancing. He has been known to patronise a plebeian ball-room, though he assures us he goes for aesthetic interests only. He participates in activities, athletic as well as social, however, and has tried his hand at golf, hockey, rugby, and badminton, but the greatest of these is badminton. L. Graves, College of the Venerable Bede (Castle •1937-1944), came up this year to take the two-year course for the Certificate in Education. Like Peter Janes he is taking up Rugby and Rowing; we are looking forward to their meeting on opposite sides on the rugby field and in opposing crews in the Intercollegiate Novices races at the end of term. He spends a good deal of time visiting schools in the docklands of South Shields, wearing a fencing vizor and breastplate. But he says the children are quite harmless if you are prepared for them.
589
If any other O.V.s in the University whom we have not yet met read this letter we should be pleased if they would contact Champion at St. Chad's College, and we shall be happy to meet any O.V. who comes to the University next year. SANDHURST LETTER. The Royal Military Academy, Camberley, Surrey. To the Editors of " The Vigornian." DEAR SIRS, Since our last letter, our numbers have been considerably diminished, J. Carrol and A. W. S. Hargrave the only remaining O.V.s. However, both of these, although obtaining no noteworthy distinctions in their training, play Rugger for their respective companies, whenever time permits. Of the other O.V.s, D. C. Tyson and N. G. P. Lawson passed out in December 1949, the former having gone to Malaya with the Worcestershire Regiment, while Lawson, who has been commissioned into the R.A.S.C. is, as far as we know, stationed at Aldershot. A. R. Wiseman has also passed out and has received a commission in the Royal Regiment of Artillery; he is now preparing to go to Gibraltar. It is however, disappointing to see that as yet there are no new O.V.s at Sandhurst, and we sincerely hope that this defect will be remedied during the coming year. Yours Sincerely, O.V.s, Sandhurst. O.V. RUGBY MATCH. The annual O.V. Rugby match took place on Saturday, December 9th. The weather was cold and frosty but ground conditions were ideal for football. The School began shakily and were for the most part confined to their half of the field. Soon, however, the School attack, well supported by an eager pack of forwards was taking the ball into the O.V.'s '25. Play swayed from end to end of the field, and although both sides went near to scoring, it was the O.V.'s who looked more dangerous in attack. Resolute defence on both sides was the distinguishing feature of the game and Lowes, playing at full-back, and George were particularly sure in their handling and accurate with long kicks for touch. Shortly before half-time, Beard scored a try for the School which Heath converted—half time 5-0. After the resumption the O.V.s pressed strongly and their forwards, although less fit than the School pack, were quick to see any openings that came their way. It was from a forward rush that Taverner touched down to give O.V.s their first try. The kick failed. Both sides strove hard but the O.V.s attacked persistently and were soon rewarded with an unconverted try by Bluck. With the School only one point down, a fierce struggle for victory began but in spite of incessant attacks the O.V.s eventually emerged victors from a keen, hard fought game.
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THE VIGORNIAN.
December, 1950
The incident followed the interception by the police of a car in which the bandit was travelling with a merchant from whom he had demanded money at the point of a gun. The car was thought to have been going to a bank to collect money when it was stopped.
Can anyone kindly supply Mr. Nicholls with the present address of any of the following ?— Angwin, C. C. Jackson, P. H. Jones, L. C. Ainsworth, Rev. H. A. Ayrton, J. G. W. Jones, S. M. C. Bigwood, E. J. Kendall, J. R. F. Lewis, Lt.-Col. C. B. Bowstead, J. Loach, R. Berkeley, W. N. Blandford, G.F. Langley, C. W. P. Blandford, H. F. Layton, T. R. Balch, M. J. Lock, S. O. A. M. Bate, S. M. MacNalty, F. S. Benson, F. M. P. Masterman, Capt. S. G. McEachran, P. Bridgman, M. O. F. Badham, J. A. Mills, P. J. Badham, M. F. Mocatta, D. A. Cooke, L. P. R. Nash, S. Caswell, J. B. Powell, J. D. F. Patton, C. A. C. Coombs, G. B. Chignell, Rev. W. R. Pennington, D. R. Collett, O. Quin, S. E. V. Cowles, F. B. Quin, W. J. V. Charlish, J. A. Rieu, E. A. Cook, R. C. Raban, H. D. P. Cairns, R. A. Rushton, Dr. E. P. K. Dingle, C. E. E. Stanton, E. F. Dormehl, P. M. C. Stevens, P. J. Tweedle, Dr. G. I. F. Davies, M. B. Davidson, W. Tattersall, G. K. Davies, O. R. Thomas, R. L. Ewen, M. D. Taylor, W. C. Verdier, B. S. Finch, G. D. Fisher, E. L. Woodhouse, P. H. B. Folley, J. H. Wood, H. E. Giles, Dr. O. P. Wynne-Woolley, J. Green, J. F. A. Williams, A. T. Hawkins, Rev. S. M. Watkins, S. R. Wilding, C. R. MinifieHubble, H. H. Wood, Col. R. H. N. Halliley, P. T. Hammond, J.T.
The bandit jumped out and took refuge in a roadside village house which the police surrounded. Sub.Inspector Leslie led a party into the house and was shot dead on a landing of a first floor, Chief Inspector Clarke was fired at from a window and wounded.
O.V. Day will be on Saturday, 14th July, and the Annual Old Vigornian Dinner will be held in College Hall that evening.
OBITUARY. ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER EDWARD COLIN LUSCOMBE, o.v. It is with deep sorrow and regret that we report the death of Colin Luscombe (Hostel 1927-36) who was killed by a Chinese terrorist on September 1st, 1940. We quote the following extract from the Worcester News and Times, which gives an account of his untimely death :— " Assistant-Commissioner Edward Colin Luscombe, commanding the police in the Kowloon and New Territories, Hong Kong, who was killed by a Chinese bandit at Tsunwan in the new territories yesterday, was an Old Vigornian. He was the son of Mr. E. Luscombe, of Good Son Road, Malvern Link. Supt. Luscombe, educated at Worcester Cathedral King's School, became Head Boy of the School and was in the Hostel House. He joined the Hong Kong Police Force in 1937, after holding for a year the post of Sports Master at Marlborough House School, Reading, Suffolk. He was taken prisoner by the Japanese and returned to the Hong Kong Police Force about four years ago. His wife was a resident of Hong Kong before their marriage. There are two young children. Supt. Luscombe was one of two officers killed and a third seriously injured. The other officer killed was Sub.-Inspector Alexander Lislie. Chief Inspector Frederick Clarke was shot three times in the chest and is in hospital in a critical condition.
Mr. Luscombe then led another party into the house and was shot dead. An armoured car was sent to the house and the bandit killed."
NOTICE TO O.V.S. A pocket-sized ADDRESS BOOK of present members of the O.V. Club is in course of being printed. The price of the book will be 2/- (post free). Members may send in their remittances at once if they wish, and the book will be posted immediately it conies from the printers. If the address to which this issue of " The Vigornian " is sent is not a permanent one, would members please let the Secretary know within three weeks from the date " The Vigornian " was posted ?
THE CAROL SERVICE. The annual Carol Service which took place at 6.00 p.m. on Saturday, 17th December, in the College Hall is a customary event at the end of the Christmas term, and yet I think everyone looks forward to it with expectancy and recollections of past Christmases. The Hall, even though its acoustics may be bad, more than compensates for this defect by the beautiful aspect it presents at this time of year. The decorations of holly, ivy and above all, the gaily glittering Christmas tree give the Hall a warmth and friendliness that may seem to be lacking at other times. The rather dim and subdued lighting throws the roof into deep shadow which in some inexplicable way seems to welcome and receive the sonorous voice of the Choir. The Service consisted as usual of Carols by the Choir alone, bible-readings and Christmas hymns in which everyone takes part.
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The Headmaster in his opening remarks mentioned, in extenuation of any flaws which might be revealed in the acting, that everyone tended to be somwehat jaded by the end of the Winter term. But no trace of tiredness could be detected in what followed. The Perhaps the most enjoyable and most excellently Headmaster especially excelled himself in vigour and sung were " Thou must leave Thy lowly dwelling," by versatility, now as the blustering patient who knows Berlioz, and " Make we Joy now in this Fest," by William all the answers, now the detained schoolboy, contemptWalton. uously taking the measure of his noisy but ineffectual master (Mr. Wilson); returning as another patient, The voices blended beautifully in the latter piece and passive this time and at the mercy of a " hearty " nurse, the splendid tones and harmonies seemed to soar upwards delightfully portrayed by Mrs. Kittermaster in a manner and fill the air with rich sound. scarcely unworthy of Joyce Grenfell; and finishing, The Madrigals singers, under the direction of Mr. rather tragically, as a middle-aged landlady of repellent Sinclair Logan, gave a very pleasing and polished per- aspect, alone among the fragments of an ill-starred formance, and the life and vitality which they infused breakfast, which had been gloatingly returned to her into their four carols showed us, if indeed we needed by her insurgent lodgers. This scene, perhaps the most amusing, was entirely in song, with authenticity lent showing, that unaccompanied voices singing :— by the voice of A. Hambling, O.V. " In service high and anthems clear Mr. Wilson and Miss Forward likewise cast off the As may with sweetness, through mine ear pedagogical shackles and discovered rarely exhibited Dissolve me into ecstasies talent. D. K. Kennedy brought the remains of his And bring all Heaven before mine eyes." Falstaffian manner to bear in the part of a cook, whose —can indeed surpass nearly all orchestral works. The dismissal, to all appearances long overdue, was enacted whole programme was instinct with a freshness and wholely by means of a ludicrous juxtaposition of Shakevitality that could not fail to delight. spearean quotations. A. G. Jackson excelled particularly as the plain man, in the persons first of a tramdri ver and The full programme was as follows :— then of a plumber turned doctor. J. D. Farmer's suave " O Come All Ye Faithful," unison with Choir Descant. tones carried him placidly through a variety of parts, "Lullay, Lullay" and "Joseph and the Angel"—Choir. and the female element was supplied by R. G. L. Griffiths, "It Came upon the Midnight Clear"—Unison. whose deceptively naive acting is already well known, "Thou must leave Thy lowly dwelling" (Berlioz)—Choir. and J. B. W. Robins, making a successful entry to "Hark;! the Herald Angels Sing"—Unison with Choir feminine rdles rather late in life. descant. Much of the fun of such sketches lies in being able "A Carol for Christmas"—-(Henry Ley)-—Choir. to identify what is going on on the stage as an ampli"Make we joy now in this Test"—William Walton— fication of the intrinsically funny things and people of Choir. one's everyday experience. Novelty itself is not essential. "O Little Town of Bethlehem"—Unison with Choir The man and wife preparing to dine out are eternally descant. amusing, and we have all met those three horrors of present-day life, Robins's abject yet resentful maid, MADRIGAL GROUP. Jackson's self-satisfied representative of the newly canonized lower classes and Miss Forward's harassed " The First Noel "—Choir. " Ding, Dong, Merrily on High " (arr. C. Wood)—Choir. and "flapping" wife. Passing to the higher planes of "Christians Awake"—Unison with Choir descant. criticism one might say that these scenes presented a panoramic view of the decadent modern world. One The collection taken after the Service is to be given would of course be talking complete nonsense. What to the Tower Restoration Scheme, which has as its they were was extremely good entertainment, which object the repairing of the badly eroded fabric of the not only brought the house down but contributed in Cathedral Tower. some small measure to keeping the tottering pinnacles G.J.H-S. of the Cathedral up, this being the admirable cause to which the proceeds of a collection were devoted. B.L.N. THE END OF TERM ENTERTAINMENT. " I adore simple pleasures—they are the last refuge of HOUSE NOTES. the complex," says a character in Wilde's " A Woman of SCHOOL HOUSE. No Importance." A large audience on the last night of term were evidently of the same opinion and had come, MONITORS : A. G. Jackson, D. K. Kennedy, J. D. Farmer, T. Hughes-Williams, H. J. Davies, R. G. L. Griffiths, after a long term's attempting to improve the mind, R. P. Heath. prepared to indulge their less sophisticated and intelWe began the term in rather a chaotic state as the lectual interests. The performance consisted of a dozen short sketches with a minimum of skilfully used costume loss of so many of our members at the end of the summer and scenery. The stage-management was informal in term and the arrival in September of ten new boys was character and more than once our anticipation of the not inductive of calm conditions for the first few weeks. coming scene was whetted by the sight of a strangely However we are happy to say that the House is now clad figure scurrying for safety, having been prematurely working together again under the able guidance of lit up. A. G. Jackson. The School Choir sang with great clarity and precision, a fact which says much for Mr. Edgar Day who conducted, since practice is invariably restricted by the Christmas flurry, to the absolute minimum.
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THE VIGORNIAN.
Several of the Summer term leavers have paid us welcome visits during this term, among whom were H. M. P. Davies, J. H. Whithead, J. D. L. Griffiths and M. J. Morton. They all seem to have accustomed themselves to National Service life since last July. The new boys we welcomed this term were I. A. Dickinson, C. A. W. Ive, R. L. Maiden, N. H. Holder, N. P. Skeates and D. J. H. Gregory, while J. W. Langfield, J. L. Procter, C. M. McLean, and C. D. Brown joined us from Choir House. They all seem to have settled in now and it is to be hoped that they will enjoy their school careers by being useful members of School House. We are very sorry to have to say good-bye to such a keen and able Monitor as R. P. Heath, but unfortunately he is leaving us, and is eventually to plant tea in Ceylon. We all wish him good luck and to the rest of the House— a Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year. CASTLE HOUSE. MONITORS : K. J. Beard, D. Bushby, D. Leonard, P. C. Sheppy. We have great pleasure in welcoming as our new House Master, Mr. S. R. Sheppard, who, with his family, took up residence during September. The House has of course been subject to a great number of changes because room has had to be made for his two daughters. We were very sorry to see Leeke and Warwick leave us last term and we wish them every success in their future careers. We welcome five new boys this term, J. C. B. Coles, D. A. Burnham, D. F. Cummings, D. A. W. Harding and a Polish boy, W. Emiljanowicz. We are very pleased to see that although Mr. and Mrs. Bentley could not find a house of their own, they are very comfortably settled in a flat in College Green. It remains to thank Matron for keeping the House in such good health and wish her along with Mr. and Mrs. Sheppard and Mr. and Mrs. Bentley a Happy Christmas and the best of luck in the coming year. THE HOSTEL. HOUSE MONITORS : J. R. W. English, E. R. Vines, M. B. Sykes, C. H. Shouler. M. B. Sykes and C. H. Shoules are to be congratulated on their appointments as House Monitors, and the latter also on obtaining his School Certificate. Early in the term we were very unfortunate in losing, because of illness, Mr. Pedder, in whose absence Mr. Carlyle ably took over the duties of House Master. Happily we are now able to report that Mr. Pedder is almost fully recovered, and we sincerely hope that his improvement will continue. At the end of the Summer term, Miss Yem, who has been Matron for the last two years, left us, and we welcome Mrs. Taylor in her place. At the beginning of this term, we had one new boy only, Mackay, and also four boys from Choir House, Spencer, Blackmore, Tanfield and Coventry, all of whom we heartily welcome.
December, 1950
We are sorry to lose Bamfield at the end of this term, but we wish him every success in his future career. Lastly, we must thank Mrs. Taylor for maintaining the good health of the House; and we wish her and Mr. and Mrs. Pedder a Very Happy Christmas. TREDENNYKE HOUSE. MONITORS : J. H. Ford, T. A. Brown, M. J. Bran, J. R. G. Pringle, H. A. W. Blundstone. Though we find ourselves depleted of all but one of our founder members by the loss of Howell and Bluck, to whom we wish success in the future, we are proud to say that our numbers have increased fourfold and we are now stabilized. We congratulate Ford and Brown on being, respectively, re-awarded and awarded their 1st XV colours. We are glad to say that we were represented in every other School XV, Bran maintaining a permanent place in the 2nd XV. The office of Secretary of Cricket once again returns to the House in the person of- Brown. Our new boys, this term, are most promising and have settled down well. The actual activities in the -House this term were varied, some of the furniture has been strengthened and some new lockers made by members of the House. The icy roads at the end of the term severely tested our skill on the roads, but everyone passed unscathed through this rigorous experience. In part-time sports we have beaten Castle House on two occasions at Table-Tennis. Illness has been limited this term to the usual colds, and cases of measles, which were ably nursed by Matron, who is leaving at the end of the term. During her tenure of office she has been notable for the alacrity with which the laundry has found lost shirts, and the cessation of her art-class for the smaller boys, will leave a pronounced gap in their routine. We therefore regretfully say good-bye and wish her good fortune in the future. As always seems to happen, the House Master and his wife come last, but from experience we realise that they control the happiness of the House and our thanks are due to them for this and many other things. In the spirit, therefore, we wish Mr. and Mrs. Bailey and all other members of our community a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. CREIGHTON HOUSE. MONITORS : G. J. Hollister-Short, A. Green, C. Cartwright, A. J. Campbell, P. J. Whitmore, D. A. Prothero. The House has fared moderately well this term, and the Rugby team but for the frosty weather that made football impossible, would have provided stiff opposition to any challengers. We have been represented in the 1st XV by Cartwright and Campbell both of whom have been awarded their colours, while Hollister-Short has been the ' stupor mundi ' in the 2nd XV. It is with great regret that we wish farewell to the House Captain, Hollister-Short and Cartwright and Campbell. To them all we wish every fortune in their future careers.
December, 1950
593
THE VIGORNIAN.
Mr. Cash, our House Master, must be mentioned next in these notes for the splendid and energetic work he has done for the welfare of the House, He will be gratified, we are sure, to see that the spirit of the House has improved considerably since he assumed his position. Indeed, while we are mercifully free from too much " clannish enthusiasm," the improvement of spirit among the junior members is very gratifying. Finally, we must wish all members of the House success if they have been taking examinations, good luck if they are leaving, and to all prosperity for the New Year. CHAPPEL HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : J. N. Bulman, A. N. George, L. M. Fifield, D. T. Tudge, E. B. James, P. K. Birbeck, G. Matthews. We heartily congratulate A. N. George on his appointment as Captain of Football this season. This is the first time for many years that this office has been held by anyone in Chappel House. Football prospects for the House are quite good as we have five other members of the 1st XV, besides George, three of whom have been awarded their 1st XV colours: We have only four N.C.O.s in the C.C.F. this term, but a number of cadets are taking Certificate ' A.' to whom we extend our best wishes. Finally, we thank Mr. Dilks for his continued interest in our affairs.
FOOTBALI^-SEASON 1950-51. It is idle to pretend that this has been a good season, although the XV itself improved considerably after a very unsettled opening. Latterly the defence was always most resolute, and in this respect one must make mention of George's courageous example. Lack of thrust in the centre, and of speed on the wings was mainly responsible for the very low scoring power of the side. Unhappily, however, the responsibility cannot be laid solely here. It lies almost as much in the fact that the 2nd XV failed in its principle duty in that it never gave the first sufficient opposition in practice games to bring it up to a winning standard. At the momemt the sad fact is that the first group contains, through necessityonly, a large number of outsides who will not tackle nor run resolutely, and far too many forwards who consider themselves specialists after two or three seasons' experience of the game. Until these things right themselves, and the frame of mind changes to one of " I must make myself fit to be accepted by such and such a team, whatever they may ask of me," no really great advance will be made. Unfortunately the House matches could not be played, as both the School field and Perdiswell were too hard and, in places, covered with ice.
RUGGER.
FIXTURES AND RESULTS. 1ST XV.
Played 10; won 3; lost 7; cancelled 2. Date Opponents Ground Result Sat., 7th Oct. Worcester ' A ' Away Lost Sat., 14th Oct. Hereford C.S Away Lost Sat., 28th Oct. Dean Close Away Lost Sat., 4th Nov. Trinity College, Oxford Away Lost Wed., 15th Nov. Bromsgrove 2nd XV Home Won Wed., 22nd Nov. County Police Home Won Sat., 25th Nov. W.R.G.S Home Lost Wed., 29th Nov. Bloxham Home Won Sat., 2nd Dec. Cheltenham College 2nd XV Home Lost Wed., 6th Dec. Ellesmere College Away CANCELLED. Sat., 9th Dec. O.V.s Home Lost Wed., 13th Dec. Magdalen C.S Home CANCELLED
For 0 0 0 3 11 6 3 3 0
Against 26 37 14 8 3 3 6 0 6
5
6
10 9 24 0 3 9 0
3 3 6
2ND XV.
Played 7; won 3; lost 4; cancelled 1. Wed., 4th Oct. Belmont Abbey Sat., 7th Oct. Hereford C.S Sat., 21st Oct. Bromsgrove 3rd XV ... Sat., 28th Oct. Sebright S.C. 1st XV... Sat., 4th Nov. Dean Close Wed., 8th Nov. Bromsgrove 3rd XV ... Sat., 25th Nov. W.R.G.S Wed., 29th Nov. Bloxham ,
Home Home Home Away Home Away Away Away
Won Won Won Lost Lost Lost Lost CANCELLED
62 20 24 6
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THE VIGORNIAN.
3RD XV. Played 2; won 1; lost 1; cancelled 1. Sebright 2nd XV Sat., 28th Oct. Away Lost Wed., 15th Nov. Bloxham Home Won Sat., 2Sth Nov. Dean Close Away CANCELLED
UNDER XV COLTS. Played 7; won 0; lost 7; cancelled 1. Sat., 14th Oct. Hereford C.S Home Lost Wed., 18th Oct. Belmont Abbey (Under 15J) ... Away Lost Sat., 28th Oct. Bromsgrove Home Lost Sat., 4th Nov. Dean Close (Under 15J) Home Lost Wed., 15th Nov. Bloxham... ... ... < Away Lost Sat., 25th Nov. W.R.G.S Home Lost Sat., 2nd Dec. Sebright Home Lost Wed., 13th Dec. Magdalen C.S. Home CANCELLED UNDER 14 COLTS. Played 6; won 3; lost 3; cancelled 1. Sat., 14th Oct. Down's School Away Lost Hereford C.S. Away Won Sat., 21st Oct. Hillstone Sat., 28th Oct. ... Home CANCELLED Bromsgrove Away Sat., 4th Nov. Lost Wed., 15th Nov. Bloxham... Home Lost Sat., 18th Nov. Down's School Home Won Sat., 25th Nov. W.R.G.S. Away Won
December, 1950
0 11
45 5
3 3 0 6 0 40 11
41 8 49 11 43 12
6 11
26 6
0 0 11 14
20 6 3 3
6
FIXTURES FOR EASTER TERM. Date Sat., 10th Feb. Sat., 24th Feb.
IST XV. Opponents Ground St. Edward's, Oxford ' A ' XV ... Away Shrewsbury School Home 2ND XV.
Home Away
Wed., 14th Feb. Sebright 1st XV Sat., 24th Feb. Shrewsbury 3RD XV.
Sat., 17th Feb.
Sebright 2nd XV
Sat., 10th Feb. Sat., 17th Feb.
Sebright Belmont Abbey (15i)
Home UNDER 15 COLTS. Away Home
Characters—XV. SMITH, K, J.—His tackling was superb but his tendency to wait for the ball caused him to get into needless difficulties on many occasions. LOWES.—Although unfamiliar with the position of full-back he showed a keen sense of anticipation and kicked extremely well. He was a little unsure in his tackling. BROWN, T. A.—He always gave his best and improved with each game. With a little more speed he would have scored many more tries. GEORGE, A. N.—His kicking and defensive work was excellent. He did not make enough of his weight and speed in attack.
SMITH, N. J.—A courageous tackier but he lacked the speed and sureness of hand required by a centrethreequarter. HEATH.—A strong determined runner who was given far too few opportunities to show his real abilities in attack. Very sound in defence. THOMAS, G. S. W.—He possesses a safe pair of hands, is quick off the mark and has a good kick. When he acquires sufficient confidence to do more on his own and tightens his defence he will become a very good stand-off. BIRBECK.—A very hard working scrum-half. Unfortunately he allowed his rhythm of service to be upset when faced with quick wing forwards. With more experience, he should become a very good scrumhalf.
December, 1950
THE VIGORNIAN.
BULMAN.—A hard-working, vigorous forward; compensates for his lack of finesse by a quality of ' devil.' BECKETT.—Hooked, on the whole, well; very fast in open play; improving in the loose. CARTWRIGHT.—Led the forwards very well, by example as well as voice; served the side wholeheartedly throughout the season. CAMPBELL.—A good scrummager, with plenty of ' go ' in the loose. HUGHES-WILLIAMS.—Played solidly through the team; a very safe tackle, and a good dribbler. BEARD.—His play improved greatly during the season; is becoming a very intelligent forward; corner-flags and tackles well. Good in the loose. BENNETT, H. F.—Good in the line-out, and is ' in ' anything that is going. His light-hearted attitude to the off-side laws is sometimes alarming. FORD.—Played really well; time and again his tackling upset attacks; used his head much more than he did last year.
CRICKET PROSPECTS. With only four members of last year's very successful 1st XI remaining, we shall have to start building a team afresh. In spite of this we are very confident, as there is considerable talent among the younger members of the School and with Mr. Buller's expert coaching we are very hopeful of turning out a good all-round side. The main strength should lie in the attack with Jackson, George and Brown forming the spearhead; but the bowling will only be formidable if it is backed up by keen and alert fielding. There will be ample opportunities and competition for forceful and enterprising batsmen. There are many promising cricketers in the Middle and Lower Schools who, with adequate coaching, should provide a nucleus for future teams. We are, in any case, looking forward with confidence and pleasure to an enjoyable and we hope, successful season. L.M.B.
IST XI FIXTURES. Date Opponents Ground Sat. May 12th v L. M. Bailey's XI Home Wed. May 16th v Worcestershire Club & Ground Away Sat. May 19th v Malvem College ' A ' XI ... Home Wed. May 23rd v Hereford Cathedral School ... Away Wed. May 30th v Shrewsbury School 2nd XI ... Away Sat. June 2nd v Sebright School ... ... Home Sat. June 9th v St. Edward's School 2nd XI ... Away Wed. June 20th v Bromsgrove School 1st XI ... Away Sat. June 23rd v Dean Close School Home Sat. June 30th v Worcester Royal Grammar Sch. Home ... Away Sat. July 7th v Magdalen College School Wed. July llth i> Bloxham School Home ... ... Home Sat. July 14th i> Old Vigornians Wed. July 18th v Belvedere College, Dublin ... Home
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NOTICE. Would O.V.S wishing to play in either Football or Cricket Annual Matches against the School be good enough in future NOT to apply to present Officials of W.C.K.S., R.F.C. or C.C., but to address their applications to :— Hon. Secretary, Old Vigornian Club, King's School, Worcester.
ROWING PROSPECTS. The prospects for this season are good. It is, I believe, the 75th anniversary of the club's foundation and this should spur us to supreme efforts. We expect to have three of each of the first two IVs left, and a better body of practised watermen than in any year since the war. The keen oarsmen of the last few seasons have built up a practice of rowing, if not yet of good rowing, and the cynics can no longer say that we only row in order to have time to play tennis—far from it. The Captain of Boats will, I hope, be able to call on another coach for.the 3rd IV and to arrange more precisely the important coaching of beginners. Those who reach a high place in the club and gain their colours have, in these pages, a record of the achievements of their crews and their names are written as a memorial in the boathouse; but there are those who by leaving early or being too light miss any tribute but in the memories of their contemporaries. G. R. Tilt, who has just left, is such a one whose love of the river and willingness to do any of the tedious and necessary jobs that occur to strain one's keenness, is as memorable to me as a hard fought race or a special expedition. When a club can rely on such loyalty in its rank and file its future is well assured; and for this reason alone we could look forward with confidence to the coming seasons. R.H.F.C. PASS-BALL. During the term an ever-growing desire for more games of Pass-Ball resulted in the formation of a set of rules for pass-ball suitable for our gymnasium. Sergeant Barrett kindly drew up the rules and organised a Senior Form Pass-Ball Competition, the victors of which were the Upper Sixth. The floor was marked out in accordance with the rules, which fall somewhere between those of modern basket-ball, and those of the old game which bore close resemblances to Rugby Football and all-in wrestling. We hope that next term we will be able to organise a House Pass-Ball Competition and possibly arrange a match with the W.R.G.S. However, if everyone would remember that the main rule of the game is to " play the ball, and never the man," we feel sure that the speed and standard of the game would improve considerably.
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THE VIGORNIAN.
BOXING NOTES. There was a pleasing increase at the beginning of term in the number of boys who wished to partake in the School boxing activities. Two nights a week were arranged when the gym would be free for training and Sergeant Barrett was able to have several very helpful practice bouts with the keener boxers. At the beginning of term, too, a match was arranged with Bromsgrove School for December 8th, which we unfortunately had to cancel owing to the indisposition of several members of our team. Towards the close of the term we had to forego our weekly P.T. period as the gym was in the hands of the carpenters who were busy installing a removable punch bag. This is a most welcome addition to the apparatus in the gym and will prove extremely useful in our preparations next term for the School Boxing Competition. D.K.K.
December, 1950
SHOOTING NOTES. Captain of Shooting - - C.S.M. Bulman. Secretary of Shooting - - - L./Cpl. Hutchison. We began the term without the valuable services of Morton and Howell, who were both senior members of the VIII, and whom we missed greatly. We wish them both the best of luck in their new occupations, and hope that their shooting powers will be of some use to them in the future. To fill the gap, two new and promising marksmen, Cpl. Beard and Cdt. Fifield, have taken their places. The VIII this term consisted of the following :— C.S.M. Bulman (Capt.). L./Cpl. Hutchison. L./Cpl. Tilt. Cdt. Rippier, J. S. L./Cpl. Milton. Cdt. Redwood, J. E. Cpl. Beard. Cdt. Fifield. 1st reserve, L./Cpl. Monger. 2nd reserve, Cdt. Richards. * * *
C.C.F. NOTES. This term has been remarkable for the lack of N.C.O.s in the contingent. • This was not caused by a decline in numbers passing Certificate ' A," but by a high proporThe captaincy of the VIII was again entrusted to tions of leavers last term. Mr. Cash joined the Company C.S.M. Bulman, who is an exceptionally steady shot as a Lieutenant at the beginning of term. Activities have been confined to the usual Saturday with correspondingly high scores, and the Secretarymorning parades except for a parade on Remembrance ship to L./Cpl. Huchinson. Both L./Cpl. Tilt Sunday and Field-Day which, this term, was held on and Cdt. Rippier are now senior members of the VIII and they have risen to the occasion with some excellent Bringsty Common under ideal weather conditions. The Annual Camp was held at Park Hall Camp near shooting. L./Cpl. Milton and Cdt. Redwood have shot Oswestry, where we were allotted very comfortable consistently and well this term, and both have proved quarters (with excellent N.A.A.F.I. recreation facilities). to be very useful members of the VIII. The two new The contingent Basket-ball team, consisting of K. J. members, Cpl. Beard and Cdt. Fifield, have shown Beard, A. N. George, L. M. Fifield, K. J. Smith, Maxton great keenness and have already distinguished themselves and N. J. Smith should be congratulated upon winning in several matches, Cpl. Beard having the highest score the Battalion Competition. They were knocked out of of the season, 97 out of a possible 100, and Fifield having two 96's to his credit. The two reserves, L./Cpl. Monger the Camp Final only after a hard close game. A seven-a-side Rugger team beat Monmouth 3-0, and Cdt. Richards have both fired well when the occasion and a hockey team won their way into the Battalion Semi- demanded, and Cdt. Richards achieved 95 out of 100 when firing in the Public Schools N.S.R.A. ChampionFinal. We also had the distinction of winning the Camp ship. It now remains for us to thank Lt./Col. Sheppard, Competition for Kit Lay-out. The contingent as a whole was keen and gave a very Lt. Thomas, Lt. Bailey, Lt. Cash, and also C.S.M. good display at the March-past after the Sunday Church Barrett for the valuable time they have given to improve Parade. This March-past was unique in that it was the standard of shooting. It is to be hoped that our the only time on record that C.S.M. Barrett failed to results will improve as time goes on. We have been severely handicapped during the greater part of the term criticize our marching. J.N.B. by the removal of all but two of our shooting rifles by the armourer of Western Command who paid us a most * * * untimely visit half-way through the term. However, Certificate ' A ' Parts I & II was held on the 14th and in spite of this we still flourish and we hope to fulfil the 15th of December and the results were on the whole expectations of many O.V.s who were once in the VIII. very good, and well above average. The most pleasing feature was the small percentage of failures in both Parts. This we feel sure, is a true reflection of the efforts The matches and results we have fired are :— of both officers and boys. While a war-like spirit is not Opponents For Against, Result desirable by any standards, it should be the object of *King Edward's, Birmingham ... 725 715 Won every cadet to pass this examination. •Royal Naval College, Dartmouth 734 743 Lost * * * 715 Lost *Wolverh'pton Grammar School 685 tTaunton School, Somerset ... 611 593 Won Promotions : Sgt. Bulman, J. N. to A./C.S.M. fSutton Valence, Kent 558 677 Lost Cpl. Farmer to A./Sgt. •Rugby School 726 752 Lost •Public Schools, score 699; position 47 out of 65. Cpl. Cartwright to A./Sgt. Cpl. Jackson to A./Sgt. fStoneyhurst College 675 598 Won Cpl. Leonard to A./Sgt. * N.S.R.A. f Country Life. Cpl. Bushby to A./Sgt. P.D.H.
December, 1950
THE VIGORNIAN.
RED CROSS. WORCESTER 501. Mr. Cooke has unfortunately not been able to be with us on many occasions this term, owing to his work as a research chemist, but lectures and practical periods have covered a great amount of practical work. On Field Day team and individual competitions were held, " A " team led by E. B. James, winning the team contest while I. R. Cooper with 93% was the individual winner. Time was also spent in practicing stretcher drill as this had not been attempted previously. The impossibility of having a qualified medical practitioner is still hampering us in our examinations, but we hope to obtain the services of one next term.
J.C.
MUSIC SOCIETY. Once again this term, the attendance at Music Society has been as large as ever; and we managed to have three meetings all of which were of a very interesting and varied nature. Owing to the decorating operations in the Head Master's house, Mr. Wilson was very kind in allowing us to have our first meeting in his drawingroom. We also owe our sincere thanks to Mr. Wilson for arranging the programme himself and using his own records. As a result we had a very entertaining evening listening to Franck's Symphony in D minor, Elgar's Introduction and Allegro for Strings, as well as pieces by Rossini, Mozart and Tchaikowsky. At our second meeting, when we were once more able to assemble in Mrs. Kittermaster's drawing room, Mr. A. G. Clinch, whom we were fortunate enough to have at one of our meetings last summer, gave us a very interesting and knowledgeable talk on Opera with plentiful illustration from his large collection of records. At our last meeting of the term, we were very fortunate indeed in having Mr. David Willcocks, the organist of the Cathedral, to talk to the Society about Bach's Mass in B minor. The Society had its largest attendance of the term, and Mr. Willcocks' talk, admirably illustrated by members of the Cathedral Choir and Choral Society, was very much enjoyed and gave us a much better understanding of the work when we attended the performance in the Cathedral. Finally, as always, we owe our very sincere thanks to Mrs. Kittermaster for her unfailing interest and help in arranging meetings and also for her very kind hospitality, for which we are very grateful. R.G.L.G. ART CIRCLE NOTES. Warm thanks must first be extended to Miss Campbell, who organised the term's lectures for us, and to the Headmaster and Mrs. Kittermaster, who showed their too easily accepted hospitality in allowing us the use of their sitting-room in which to hold our meetings. The first of these took place on Sunday, October 8th, when Mrs. Beard came to speak to us on the subject of "Glove Puppetry"; this included a demonstration, which to everyone's delight lasted longer than the
597
lecture. We very much appreciate the trouble taken by Mrs. Beard and her two assistants in bringing the great amount of properties that helped to make the evening a success. On October 29th we were very lucky in obtaining the services of Mr. Grice, English lecturer at Worcester Training College. This talk was entitled " I saw Esau," and dealt in a very interesting way with conventional poetry. At the third meeting on November 19th, Mr. Natan was persuaded to come and speak to us about German painting during the Romantic period. His talk was amply illustrated by use of the epidiascope and coloured reproductions of pictures by the various artists he referred to. Our last meeting on December 10th took the form of a Members' Night. Twenty people commented upon either reproductions or interesting pictures that they brought along with them and several younger members made some most praiseworthy speeches. The evening was a very good finale for the Art Circle's activities of the term. D.K.K. LITERARY SOCIETY. This term the Society was once more very popular, and, at the three meetings we managed to arrange, a large number of boys from the boarding-houses were eager to read. At our first meeting we had two plays. The seniors spent a very enjoyable evening reading " I've been here before," by Priestley, while the juniors read Shaw's " You Never Can Tell." Another play of Shaw's " Caesar and Cleopatra" was read at the second meeting. And although we were unable to have a play for the junior members of the Society, those without parts were well-satisfied to come and listen. The reading was of a high standard and everybody enjoyed a very pleasant evening. At our third and last meeting we again managed to have two plays, the seniors reading Terence Rattigan's " French without Tears," which was thoroughly enjoyed by everybody, while the juniors read a dramatised version of Dorothy L. Savers' novel, " Busman's Holiday." Finally, we should like to thank the Headmaster and Mrs. Kittermaster very much indeed for their interest in the Society and also for the use of their drawingroom and dining-room for our meetings, and to say say how much we appreciate what they have done for our welfare. R.G.L.G. DEBATING SOCIETY NOTES. The departure of the President, J. D. L. Griffiths, at the end of last term, together with the resignation of the Secretary, D. K. Kennedy, necessitated the election of two new officers at the first meeting in the new School year. J. D. Farmer and R. G. L. Griffiths were elected
598
THE VIGORNIAN.
president and secretary respectively, and at the same time a representative committee was chosen. This first meeting took the form of a Hat Night, and many entertaining speeches were made, on a wide variety of topics. At the next meeting the motion debated was that " You can't get something for nothing." The motion, proposed by D. K. Kennedy and D. Tudge, and opposed by J. E. Rowley and D. R. Bushby, was approved by the narrow margin of one vote. The principle speakers provided much fuel for a lively debate in the House, but this was not forthcoming, as few seemed willing to express their own views. After some hesitation on the actual phrasing, the motion that " The House would not Fight a Third World War to prevent the spread of Russian Communism " was adopted for the third meeting of term. There were some surprising views expressed, and the standard of many of the speeches showed that this was a topic of general interest in the School. The motion was ultimately defeated by 19 votes to 12. The final meeting of term proved to be the most successful, for not only were there some highly amusing and original speeches, but the debate was by no means confined to the principal speakers, as had been the case in previous meetings. The motion, that " Truth is Stranger than Fiction" produced some remarkable stories, and was eventually approved by sixteen votes to fifteen. Our warm thanks are due to Mr. Ferrar, who has continued to help and guide us, and without whose help the Society would not be enjoying its present popularity. J.D.F. Vlth FORM CLUB NOTES. WINTER 1950. With K. J. Beard regaining the Presidency of the Club for the King's School, another series of enjoyable meetings was to be expected in the coming School Year. The first meeting of term was held in Perrins Hall, when Mr. A. G. K. Brown, the Grammar School Headmaster and Olympic runner, gave a most interesting talk, entitled " An Attitude to Sport." Another very enjoyable evening was provided two weeks later when Miss Pegley introduced us to the " History of Drama," and illustrated her talk with examples from European literature. A subject in which perhaps everyone is interested, but about which surprisingly little is known, is that of " Psychic Phenomena." The Rev. Pearce Higgins gave us a talk on this subject, and told us of some of his and other people's hair-raising experiences. The last two meetings consisted of the Youth Magazine and the Dance, both of which were well attended. Members of the King's School again provided two short sketches for the former, and the standard of the whole entertainment was high. The Rhythm Aces provided the music at the Dance which was held on December 8th, and was a great success; it was on this happy note that the activities of the Club ended for the term. J.D.F.
December, 1950 VALETE. JULY 1950.
Upper VI. BLUCK, P. M. (Hostel and Tredennyke 1943-1950). School Monitor, 1st XV Football 1948-49-50, H.C. 1950. BURNS, F. D. A. (Creighton's 1942-1950). School Monitor, Librarian, Sgt. C.C.F., 1st XV 1948-49-50, 2nd XI Cricket, 1947-48-49-50, H.S.C. 1949-50. To the R.A.F. and Hertford College, Oxford. DAVIES, H. M. P. (School 1943-50). Captain of the School, Captain of School House, Captain of Athletics, A./C.S.M. C.C.F., 1st IV Rowing 1949-50, Editor of The Vigontian, Secterary of Music and Literary Society, Senior Cross-Country winner 1948-49-50, School records : mile, J mile, J mile. H.S.C. 194849-50. To Army and Christchurch, Oxford. GODSAUL, R. F. (Creighton 1942-50). School Monitor, Captain of Creighton 1948-49-50, 1st XI Cricket 1946-47-48-49-50, 2nd XV Football 1946-47-48, 1st IV Fives 1948-49-50, Cpl. C.C.F., H.S.C. 1949. GRIFFITHS, J. D. L. (School 1943-50). School Monitor, Sgt. C.C.F., President of Debating Society, 3rd XV Football 1948-49-50, 3rd XI Cricket 1948, H.S.C. 1950. HARTLEY, G. F. (Chappel 1943-50). House Monitor, 1st XV Football 1949-50, L./Cpl. C.C.F., 2nd XI Cricket 1947-48-49. HOWELL, H. E. (Hostel and Tredennyke 1945-50). School Monitor, Sgt. C.C.F., Captain of Tredennyke, Hon. Sec. of Cricket, 1st XI Cricket 1947-48-49-50, H.S.C. 1950, 1st XV Rugby 1949-50. LEEKE, M. G. H. (Castle 1945-50). Captain of Castle, School Monitor, Hon. Sec. of Football 1949-50, C.S.M. C.C.F., 1st XI Cricket 1950, 2nd XI 1947, 48, 49, 1st XV Football 1948-49, Shooting VIII 1948-49-50. LEWIS, M. S. (Hostel 1944-50). Kings Scholar, Captain of Hostel, School Monitor, Captain of Football, 194950, 1st XV Football 1946-47-48-49-50, 2nd XI Cricket 1946-47-48-49-50. NICHOLAS, B. L. (Chappel 1943-50). Captain of Chappel, School Monitor, L./Cpl. C.C.F., Editor of The Vigornian, H.S.C. 1948, 1949 State Scholarship, 1950 Open Scholarship to Worcester College, Oxford. POCOCK, M. A. (School 1945-50). School Monitor, King's Scholar, Sgt. C.C.F., Sec. of Literary Society, 2nd IV Rowing 1949-50, 3rd XV Football 1948-49. To Architectural Association School of Architecture. RADERECHT, P. S. (School 1944-50). 1st XI Cricket 1949, 2nd XI 1950, Fives IV 1949-50, L./Cpl. C.C.F., H.S.C. 1950. TAVERNER, A. I. (Creighton 1943-50). School Monitor, Vice-Captain of Football, 1st XV Football 1948-49-50, 1st XV Cap 1949-50, Sgt. C.C.F., S.C. 1946, H.S.C. 1949, 1950 to Birmingham University. THORNE, G. V. (Chappel 1942-50). House Monitor, S.C. 1948, H.S.C. 1950, Cdt. C.C.F. THORNE, M. V. (Chappel 1942-50). House Monitor, S.C. 1948, L./Cpl. C.C.F.
December, 1950
THE VIGORNIAN.
WHITEHEAD, J. H. (School 1944-50). Kings Scholar, School Monitor, 1st XI Cricket 1946-47-48-49-50, Captain of Cricket 1949-50, 1st IV Fives 1948-49-50, Captain of Fives 1950, Sgt. C.C.F., S.C. 1946-47, H.S.C. 1949-50. To New College, Oxford. Lower VI. BRUSHFIELD, J. M. (School 1947-50). 3rd XV Football. JOHNSON, G. A. (Creighton 1946-50). House Monitor, A./Cpl. C.C.F. To Polytechnic Institute, London. JONES, *W. F. (Chappel 1944-50). House Monitor, Cpl. C.C.F., 1st XI Cricket 1950. To Surveying. Upper V. HOPKINS. P. J. (Chappel 1944-50). 1st IV Cox 1949, 3rd IV 1950, S.C. 1949. To Navy. CANIN, R. (Hostel 1946-50). House Monitor, S.C. 1950. DAVIES, J. N. M. (Hostel 1947-50). House Monitor, L./Cpl. C.C.F., 2nd XV Football 1949-50, 3rd IV Rowing 1950, S.C. 1950. MORTON, M. J. (School 1943-50). House Monitor, Cpl. C.C.F., 1st XI Cricket 1948-49-50, 1st XV Football 1949-50, 1st IV Fives 1949-50, Shooting VIII 1948-49-50. MUMFORD, A, D. W. (Creighton 1943-50). S.C. 1950. PARTRIDGE, G. (Creighton 1943-50). S.C. 1950. Lower V. BOND, B. C. (Creighton 1945-50). HUGHES, M. C. (Tredennyke 1948-50). Clerk.
Estimating
MAXTON, J. (Chappel 1948-50). 3rd IV Rowing 1950, 3rd XV Football 1950. Remove. COOPER, M. H. (Hostel 1942-50). 3rd XV. GUFFOGG, P. H. S. (Hostel 1946-50). Others. R. T. WILKINSON. R. G. ROBSON. D. F. E. INNS. D. CLAXTON. R. D. RAINBOW. T. N. GRAY.
B. W. WILKES. G. TERRY.
WINTERSPORT IN SWITZERLAND. Medical opinion holds nowadays that winter holidays benefit the human body just as much as summer vacations if not more, as the high altitudes burn up more energy and supply better vitamins and hormones through sunshine and exercise. This is one of the reasons why a party of boys have been out to Switzerland for the last three years. Many a boy suffering from incessant colds and similar ailments returned home in high spirits and could weather perfectly the vicissitudes of the Easter term.
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We always meet in London, eager for the exciting spirit of the boat train. In Folkestone we embark for the Channel crossing. It is always some sort of a revelation for a British boy to realise for the first time that Britain is an island when the chalk cliffs of the South coast vanish into the mist of a winter afternoon. The excitement mounts when Calais harbour comes in sight and frantic efforts are made to polish one's knowledge of the French language. But the patois of the porters and railway officials is usually overwhelming. The momentarily flagging spirit regains its momentum when the first Continental dinner is eaten in a French diningcar. It is usually excellent fare, the enjoyment of which is increased by a glass of French wine and the study of French notices and menus. Although we do not take sleepers we usually manage to snatch some hours of sleep, although the ever changing impressions of the new environment keep many a boy wide awake. The early dawn finds us already in Switzerland, where a delicious breakfast revives quickly the jaded nerves. We have to travel some more hours before we arrive at our destination which is always a small but comfortable village, as the attractions of a big wintersport resort would overtax our purse. But wherever we stay we get excellent rooms, wonderful beds and every comfort one could wish for. The first meals are eaten with native suspicion, but soon approved of, as the invariable demands for dessert ' seconds' prove. I never had any complaints about lack of'appetite, but could often marvel at the capacity of a boy's stomach and his relish to eat his way through enormous portions. After a few days most boys have mustered enough courage to make use of their French or German, particularly when I am supposed to be out of ear-shot. Of course the main attraction of pur stay is the wintersport of ski-ing. The boys are put in charge of an official instructor for two hours in the morning and afternoon. Most of them find no difficulty in mastering the initial secrets of this wonderful and invigorating sport. For any observer it is a secret joy to watch our boys on the nursery slopes, practising their turns, applying their courage, playing the good Samaritan to each other when some rotund body suddenly disappears under a cloud of snow. The shouts and apple cheeks are the best evidence for everybody's well-being. After ten days most boys are skilled enough to be taken high up to a mountain hut, equipped with an ample lunch bag, and looking forward to a ' smashing ' run down. When dusk falls and the icy atmosphere makes any further stay in the open air impossible, the local cake-shop is raided—this is incidentally the locality where the boys pick up the native lingo in no time—-and the booty is devoured with cups of hot milk or chocolate topped with whipped cream. It speaks for the health and energy of our boys that they are never tired enough to take a rest before dinner but prefer to write their letters or to record the day's events in their diaries. Dinner finds them always in top form. The rest of the evening is given up to games, music, reading or to some mild flirtation. A dutiful chronicler must put down that our boys are never shy with the fair sex and show an admirable talent to overcome any supposed language difficulties. At ten o'clock
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the party is safely tucked away under gigantic featherbeds to generate new strength for the next day. The exception is of course the celebration of New Year's Eve which is duly hailed in with glasses of Asti or Malaga and mountainous portions of meringues. In no time three weeks have passed and the return journey has begun, which sees us invariably in a Swiss town-*Basel, Zurich or Chur, in order to see the sights of a Continental town and to purchase marvellous presents for those who remained at home but made the journey possible. I make a point in giving the party a free run for the day. It is amazing how quickly they find their way in a foreign town, unearth those shops with the best nylons, and manage to buy their presents all by themselves. I often suspect that this last day is a sort of culmination for many a boy. Then the long night track follows, eased by the anticipation of coming home. After usually circumventing successfully the dangers of H.M. Customs we are back in Britain, full of renewed health and of stimulating impressions which last a long time. It would, however, be unfair if I did not record that wherever we go compliments from hotel proprietors and guests are handed to me on the first-rate behaviour of our boys and on the outstanding consideration they show to their fellow-citizens. I am only too glad to confirm this general impression which stands to the credit of the School. Let us therefore hope that the political situation will permit another trip next winter. Many an O.V. may perhaps be interested to learn that I would be only too willing to welcome him as a future member of the party. H.A.N.
CONTRIBUTIONS. ON OUR BLINDNESS. O tell to me the beauties of the morn, That I, with you, may see once more the light Which seems to fill the sky with radiance bright, And give to me once more the sounds of dawn. The light which heralds days to come; new born The sun, it seems, is rising in his might To give to us the rays that banish night, And glean and glist upon the ripening corn. No one can say from whence the power doth come To light our way and guide us in our task That we may earn our gold by efforts true. If only we would learn to pass the sun And could afford the time to sun and bask, And never live that day to morn or rue . W.Y.
December, 1950
TO THE FALLEN. I would I were a blissful bird on high, Then I would sing my way into the blue, I would upon the weary world espy. This world, emerging from its strifes anew, Is but about to be engaged again. Why must the flower of our native land Fight and lay down their lives with pungent pain ? With what result?—Men hint with muddling hand, Warmonger plot, betray, and foster war, They cheat and kill, and gloat on costly gains; Bereaved families do mourn the more, By graves of kindred, washed by winter rains, War, war! Oh what a wanton waste of life, And yet is youth subjected to the knife. M.J.C.S. CORRESPONDENCE. HOLBROOK " A," HAMPTON PARK, HEREFORD. 20-11-50. DEAR SIRS, While you give interesting news of a motley crop of School Societies, one thing at least is lacking. The life of a flourishing Science and Engineering Society was brought to an early close by the outbreak of war; is the time not ripe for another to be formed ? Yours faithfully, R. T. L. Allen, O.V. [Thank you very much for your suggestion. We do, in fact, hope that something of the sort may be begun next term.—Eds.} To the Editors of " The Vigornian." DEAR SIRS, " FLOREAT SCHOL.A VIGORNIENSIS." I wrote a letter to you some time ago regarding the School Song, the letter appeared in last year's magazine but unfortunately the printers omitted my address and telephone number, which is :— 6 EARLSDEN ROAD, HANBURY PARK, WORCESTER. Telephone : 3548. You will no doubt remember that I suggested the formation of an O.V. male voice choir to learn and lead the singing of the School Song at the next O.V. Dinner. I did not, however, get any offers, presumably because of this omission so now you have my address and telephone number I shall be pleased to have the names of anyone interested. Please get in touch with me soon so that we may have time to fit in a few practices. Yours truly, JOHN E. SEABRIGHT.