something of a review of the year past and to say something about any ways in which things are changing at King's. A change of Head is, potentially, one of the more significant upheavals that a school can face although I hasten to say that I have not come in with guns blazing or with a prepared agenda. King's has too long and distinguished a history to be treated in that way and under the skilful direction of John Moore over the last 15 years it has already takenin its strideanumberofmajorchanges, not least the introductionof full coeducation which is progessing so well, and the end of boarding. This latter change was inevitable and right but it will change the feel of the school, not in ways that current pupils will notice but in ways that will give the longer serving staff and generations of OVs cause for some nostalgia. College Green has undergone many changes of use in the past and the new era offers exciting possibilities that will continue to give it a central role in the school's life.
Full tribute will be paid to John Moore's achievements elsewhere in this edition. Suffice it for me to say that it is a privilege for me to take over where he left off and to continue the process of natural evolution that will, I hope, both keep this school at the cutting edge of educational thinking and provision, and maintain its very strong traditional qualities as aplace that offers a first class education in the widest sense by offering the support and encouragement that allow the pupils here to flourish in a wide number of fields. It is a most friendly school but also a challenging one. That is a good combination and one that regularly brings the best out of our pupils.
That is a convenient cue to make some mention of the achievements of the year past. For these comments 1 have drawn heavily on John Moore's final King's Day speech.
Music here flourishes. Apart from the enjoyable House Music Competition, there have been some excellent occasions this year. The spring School Concert, which was a taster for the Easter trip to Italy, was of a high standard. There was also a good concert in the Huntingdon Hall, but the performance of Bach's St John Passion last term was probably the climax of the year. It is a difficult work which was handled superbly - and it was a pleasure to see parents taking part in a concert again. Equally good have been the Keys Society Concerts,where
Keith Bridges and an outstanding group of pupils have given five varied and very enjoyable evenings.
Drama has flourished, with an excellent production of The Boy Friend, another successful House Drama festival, and anumber of other plays at different levels in the School, the most recent being Tess of the d'urbervilles at the end of last term. We have had another 'first' this year with the visit of some Theatre Studies students from America who put on two lively modem plays. As many of you will know, there was a most successful retum trip earlier this term which confirmed the success of this enterprising new venture.
The musical trip to Italy was only one of a long list of exchanges and foreign expeditions, embracing, apart from the annual skiing trips, linguists to France and Germany, Historians tothe French Battlefields, Geographers to Tunisia, Classicists to Greece and others. The fruits of these foreign trips, and of many within Britain, are seen not merely on the academic side but also in the added dimension they bring to our pupils' lives. In Art in particular such trips and the workshops in Cornwall contributedto another outstanding set of results this summer, the work forwhichlater formed the basis of another excellent autumn exhibition at The Royal Worcester Porcelain Works.
We had six Young Enterprise companies, involving no fewer than 103 pupils. They were helped by some of the Upper Sixth from last year's groups, and advised by eleven local business people, who came into the School every week, and to whom we are very grateful. One of the companies, SMART, won the Company of the Year Award, the Spring Fair Shieldand the award for the Best Presentation at the Worcestershire presentation evening. In the Central England final they did very well too, and were judged to be the company with the
best Business Skills.
Sub-Aqua has gone from strength to strength, with eight pupils achieving their Sports Diver award. A particular word of thanks to John Kingsley who has given up hours of his time to help and guide the club.
The King's Herald - or as this edition was entitled, The Herald - was awarded a Distinction in an international competition entered by well over 600 schools. This placed us in the last 19, and it emerged at the final stage, held at the House of Commons, that we were only beaten by one school. Once again the teamwork and IT skills of pupils and staff came together extremely successfully.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme continues to flourish. We had one Cold Award, over twenty five are nearing their silvers andtwenty three have achieved their bronzes. The CCF is going well, and the shooting teams have excelled themselves.
The Himalayan Club had another successful visit to Nepal at Easter, the first group involving girls. They are planning and training hard for the next trip in 1999, andthere will be amillenniumexpedition to climb and name an as yet unclimbed peak the following year. The group have also continuedtheirtraditionof helping the Nepalese people as well as climbing and trekking.
The Industrial Conference, arranged by Sheana Griffiths and once again run so successfullly by JimPanter, went very well. We are grateful to all those who gave up their time to talk to our Lower Sixth pupils and to their parents. This was followed by a work-experience week arranged by Brian Griffiths which was once again very valuable. The help of parents in offering placements was greatly appreciated.
The early spring Bank Holiday saw yet another School Fete - and what a FZte it was! The Green was magnificently transformed by the pirate theme. The Develop-
ment Committee, ably led by David Hall and Angeline Pizzey , brought everything together on a day on which we shattered the record by raising the staggering figure of over £25,000 clear profit. This will be divided between local charities and thecost of upgrading vital facilities at the Old Chapel.
On the games side, the First XV may not havebeen one of our most successful teams, and was hit by injuries, but they worked extremely hard and did creditably to finish the season with a 50% success rate. In the spring term the First Seven also had a reasonable run, culminating in three good victories at Rosslyn Park. The Under 14 A XV was unbeaten and the Under 14 Seven won two competitions. The team remained undefeated throughout the two winter terms. At an even younger age, six under 12pupils were selected for Worcester, and played in the team which won the final of the Sanyo Challenge at Twickenham.
In the Rowing world, the season started well with a number of wins in the autumn Head of the River races and at the National Schools Head, where the Girls' First VIII came second, their best result ever. In the regatta season, there were good wins at Birmingham and Avon county schools. The real highlight came in the summer holidays with victory in the National Championships at Strathclyde for the Girls' First VIII. Following on from the cricket tour to Barbados, the First XI had a lively and pretty successful season. They had a good run in the Chesterton Cup before losing in
the semi-final, but they got their own back a fortnight later with a vengeance in a solid victory over the Grammar School by 8 wickets. Dan Cullen had an outstanding season with the bat. You will read the details elsewhere. The Under 14s won ten games and drew one out of twelve. We had three junior sides in County Competitions. The Under 14s beat the Royal Grammar School in the Lords' Taverners final, with Nick Major scoring his second century in four innings in that competition. He too performed extraordinarilywell and crowned his season with a double century.
Netball has gone well. The Under 13 A team went to the County tournament as City and District champions and won that to crown an unbeaten season. Rosie Tustin represented the County at Under 16 level. Hockey had a good season and four girls were selected to represent the County.
Cross Country continues to flourish with a dedicated group, six of whom reached the County Championships. Athletics is in equally good form. We rounded off the season with another very succesful pair of Sports Days for the Fourth Forms and the Seniors. Before that, there were some notable performances in matches. At junior level, eight pupils represented the City, six won their events, and eight won medals at County level. Amongst the seniors, 33 pupils were selected for the City, of whom 15 won their events. They went on to County level and eleven won medals, and three became County Champions. Daniel Plank
won the silver medal in the under15 English Schools' High Jump and went on to represent England at international level.
On the academic side, last summer's A levels were outstanding. A particularly notable achievement was that all 17 of those offered places at Oxford and Cambridge did well enough at A level to secure those places. It is also worthy of note that 32 Gold Mathematics certificates have been won at various levels. There have also been many distinguished individual performances.
We say farewell to a number of members of Staff. You will read of their considerable contribution to the school in the pages that follow. We wish them all well in the next steps that they take. As ever, the sadness of farewells is balanced by the arrival of new staff and every year that is an exciting prospect which brings fresh ideas, different methods and new contributions to the wider life of the school.
My congratulations to the Vigomian team on a magazine that details impressively another year of such varied activity and achievement. I hope its pages will offer fresh incentive to all our pupils to make the most of what the school has to offer.
T.H. KEYES
DR.JOHNM. MOORE
John Moore retired as Headmaster of The King's School at the end of August 1998. He came to us in September 1983 from Radley, where he had been Head of Classics and Director of Sixth Form Studies.
Just before his retirement, one of my colleagueson the Governingbody described John's fifteen year period of headship as one of "spectacular success". In the years to come, when there has been an opportunity for sober reflection, I do not think that will be regarded as an overstatement.
If things go wrong in a school the Head is invariably blamed. It seems to me, therefore, when things go right - whatever is said about a 'team effort' - the Head should take the lion's share of the credit.
When the Governors appointed John Moore, they were looking for a relatively mature and experienced leader to stabilise the Schoolafter a somewhat difficultperiod - 'a safe pair of hands'. They got much, much more than that! Let us look at some of his achievements.
He led the move to full CO-education. Undoubtedly this was the biggestchangehe initiated, and probably was the biggest change in the School's history. The decision was made by unanimous vote of the Governors in 1989. John had conveyed to the board the general enthusiasm of the staff at the time for the move but let there be no doubt he was personally certain that this
MICHAELCRAZE
was the right way for The King's School to go, and he and the Governors were totally committed to the policy. Looking back on the decision, he often reminded us that we could be proud that we made the move "for the rightreasons" from apositionof strength, rather than to boost demand for places or to repair finances. King's had taken girls into the Sixth Form since 1971. The first girls entered the lower forms in September 1991, and by 1995 there were girls at every level throughout the School. About 40% of our pupils are now girls and the move is over-
During the year, the death occurred of Mr Michael Craze, for many years Honorary Secretaryof the Old Vigornian Club. He became afamiliarfigure in the Common Room, where he collected the Club's post at least once a week, and and it was he who invited members of the Staff to become Honorary Members of the Club when they had served the School for five years. Tributes to him appear elsewhere in this issue, one of which says that he never used a typewriter: this aversion to even semi-modem technology did not hinder in the slightest the gleaming efficiency of his records, when they were needed (but only occasionally) to refresh his amazing memory. His anecdotes of life as a schoolboy just after the First World War delighted all who heard them, and his estimates of the various masters here at that time should have been written down as valuable historical material. The General Strike took place in his first year at Oxford, and many boys must have been green with envy to read in The Vigornian that Craze 'drove apretty tram in Hull'. For a man who had devoted thirty-three years of his life to another school, to which he remained closely attached, his affection for his own school was unwavering, and his services to it, considerable in his youth, were yet greater in his old age.
P.C.T.
whelmingly seen as an outstanding success.
John Moore maintained, and indeed increased, the traditionally high demand for places at The King's School. Pupil numbers rose from about 780 when he came in 1983 to just over 1000 when he left (excluding pupils in Hawford Lodge prep school). Demand has remained high because of consistently good academic results, excellent all-round education in the widest sense of that word, and value for money - and that is in spite of the demise of the Assisted Places Scheme this year.
John encouraged the Governors to buy the prep school Hawford Lodge in late 1995, with the primary objective of entering the pre-prep market. This is now known as King's Hawford and, with King's St. Albans, forms an equal andalternativeroute into the Senior School as part of what has become known as The King's Foundation. During John Moore's term of office the School built its magnificent theatre, roofed the swimming pool, added a new teaching block in King's St. Albans, purchased the Worcester Porcelain Works canteen to use as an Art Studio and Fitness Centre, and completed various renovation and 'change of use' projects related to the move to full CO-education and the move away from boarding to becoming a day school.
John should be credited with the appointment of excellent supporting staff during his term of office - particularly those in key positions. Academic staff increased in number over this period from approximately 60 full-time and 30 part-time to about 100
full-time and 20 part-time (again excluding Hawford Lodge).
Externally to the School, John Moore found time to be a member of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC) influential Academic Policy Committee from 1987 to 1998, chairing it with great distinction from 1994. He became a Worcester Magistrate in 1986 (and is continuing with this work in retirement) and was chairman of the Joint Association of Classical Teachers from 1986 to 1989 and of the Choir Schools' Association from 1991 to 1993.
Inevitably his work for HMC, and as a magistrate, took him away from the School from time to time and put an additional workload on his deputies - but in my view, King's has gained enormously from the knowledge and experience he obtained from his HMC activities. I am not qualified to comment on his work for the Bench, but I have little doubt that there has been a twoway benefit to both the community and, indirectly, to King's, from John's usual total commitment. I can also report that John Moore has, since his retirement, been elected with acclaim to Honorary Associate Membership of HMC - a rare honour and one richly deserved.
John's recreational interests ranged widely and included watercolours, ancient history, archaeology, travel, music, gardening, wine and cricket. I have been fortunate to share the last two with him on numerous occasions! It has been our habit in recent years to watch the Lord's Test Match in
June together on the Sunday. This has been a joy because we share a deep love of the game and his knowledge of the technicalities and the players enrich the conversation (even in a summer downpour!).
John's relationship with the Governing Body was very good; this relationship of Head with Chairman and Governing body is of paramount importance at any school, but apparently not always of the standard that we had. He has a formidable intellect and his briefing of Governors was always thoroughly comprehensive and of invaluable assistance to the Governing Body in carrying out its duties. On apersonal basis, it was aprivilege to have been Chairman for 12 out of the 15 years John Moore was Head. I learnt much about schools and education from him (and many other things too); and we had fun working together.
Occasionally I have heard John described as 'aloof. Some might regard this as quite an appropriate manner for a Headmaster, but I never observed it! Yes, he did not suffer fools gladly; yes, he was usually less than comfortable with small talk and perhaps not an enthusiastic 'communicator' in the business sense; yes, he did not share the modem, unfortunate tendency to laud the inconsequential, or to value presentation over content. But I would not describe him as aloof. I will remember his warm, caring sincerity and total loyalty and devotion to the School.
Those who worked closely with him will find it impossible to forget the courage which he displayed after the tragic death
fromcancerof his wife Jill in 1995. Someof us tried to persuade him to take a break, but he insisted on continuing to fulfil his duties in the months which followed. John had in full measure the twoqualities which Dennis Silk has said are needed by all successful Heads: "an iron will and great physical resilience".
On retirement, John moved to a most beautiful old black-and-white house in Ombersley village, a few miles north of Worcester. When I visited him recently, I felt sure he would be very happy in this new home so full of character. I know he will welcome visits from the friends he made during his time at King's.
At the end of a typical, carefully crafted piece he wrote for the Vigornian in May 1983, describing how he saw the task ahead of Jill and him, John wrote
"We are lucky to inherit a school which is in good order; we intend that, with the help of all of you, it will continue tobe successful and in the lead as education develops in the future."
They achieved theseobjectives, and more, King's has been fortunate in having many fine and distinguished Heads in its long history. John Moore joins their number and has handed over to his successor a school in a most successful state in every respect.
Thank you John. We wish you a long, healthy and most happy retirement. You deserve it.
on Turner, Drhm P~~rker,Rote Pnnter, Jo
l Front Row (l to r): Robert Poole, PAS, Adam Smith (Head of School), JMM, Lauren Lawson-Pratt, TDRH, Clarre Wood.
JONATHANMARTIN
Jonathan first struckme as areal enthusiast, for his subject, the pupils in his care in the House and for his various outdoor activities. His passion for all his activities rubbed off on all the pupils he was involved with, and they often joined in as a result.
In the Chemistry department he taught all age groups with competence, generating a real interest in the subject. His pupils enjoyed being taught by him, and he was always very positive and caring towards them.
In his duties in charge of Choir House he was protective and supportive of those in his charge - his wife Charlotte, and the children were very much apart of life in the house, and I know their involvement made it very much a family atmosphere for both Boarders and day pupils alike.
His contributions towards the Climbing Club, the Himalayan Club and the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme all reflect his great love of the outdoors - he willingly gave up a considerable amount of time to share this with the pupils. I had first hand experience of his competence in the field of climbing when he came down, as he often did, to help with the Lower Remove Camps - many pupils have learnt to climb and abseil over the years through his involvement in the camps.
He is well placed in his new school, Sedbergh, to continue to develop his passion for the outdoors in the wilds of Cumbria. We all wish him, and his family, every success in this new adventure.
R.P.G.
The first time that I met Kath was during a Sixth Form Economics Conference at University College Worcester. I was immediately struck by her enthusiasm for the subject and her ability to communicate ideas in a fresh and interesting fashion. At the time we were not looking to make an appointment but when it became clear that a part time addition to the department was required she became the obvious choice Kath obtained her PGCE rather later in life than most after a period involving several diverse activities including some time in Africa. She settled into the regimen of King's quickly and before long her administrative skills were being put to good use in the sphere of examinations,aiding and abetting JLKB and MAN in their attempts to ensure that the ballooning examination requirements were met. Indeed she was one
of the few members of staff who could strike fear into the heart of colleagues with a single sheet of paper when she posted the invigilation timetables into their pigeon holes!
Her ability to construct various games and role play exercises was without parallel and for those candidates who struggled with some of the more advanced elements of A-level Economics such aids to understanding were a godsend. Whilst she would not suffer fools, she was always happy to help those genuinely in difficulty.
With the expansion of the department into Business Studies she took on the teaching of Accounting and Finance. However, in common with many "pure" economists, she found the demands of the new syllabus rather thin and after some thought decided that a holiday home in France offered a far more attractive option; and who can blame her?
Kath leaves the department stronger than she found it and that is perhaps the best testament to her work here. I for one will miss her and I am sure that we all wish her, her husband Richard, their children and new grandchildren every happiness in the future.
R.P.M.
Eleanor had taught part-time in the English Departmentfor six years and hadestablished herself firmly in our affections. She has retired from teaching in order to develop her successful career as awriterofchildren's literature. She has now published eighteen children's books including two which have
been published this year. One of these, "Ghost Horse", is doing particularly well andmay well taketheUSA by stormshortly ! The other is a new venture for Eleanor and is written in collaboration with her son, Max, whommany willremember at King's. We wish Eleanor well with her work but we willmiss having her expertiseon the English staff. She encouraged many to write themselves and her watchword was always "Cut out every unnecessary word, an excellent piece of advice!
R.C.J.D.
MARGARETBARD
"I'm glad we've got you for Latin, Mrs Baird," said aLower Remove pupil, "rather 1 than one of those old men." Such was the differenceMargaret Bairdmade to the image of the Classics Department! She was here for only two years, and part-time too, but her personality made a huge impact in that time. Apart from her classics teaching, she coached rowing in the first year, and in the 1 second she was one of the Diploma team. As a teacher she gave the impression of liking her pupils - something many of us could learn from! - and thus inspired affection from them. She was not only conscientiousand thorough in her work, but showed a youthful (as indeed she is!) enthusiasm for her subject and a flexibility and openness to new ideas not always associated with classics teachers! I doubt if the School's first trip to Greece would have happened without her unselfish enthusiasm, and it would certainly not have been such fun without her cheerfulness and humour. These qualities made her enormously
popular in the Common Room: whatever the tensions andgrumblings going on around her, she radiated an air of happy good humour which could not help but infect the rest of us.
We wish Margaret and her husband, Peter, all the best with the imminent expansion of their family.
R.N.G.S.
Sarah joined the school in September 1996 and spent two years with the girls' games department. She was adedicated teacher of games with responsibility for U 12 hockey, 2nd V11 netball and U13 Tennis, as well as helping with U13 and U12netball. She was greatly valued as a netball, hockey and tennis coach, enthusing the teams with constant encouragement and numerous innovative practices. In her spare time she was a keen hockey player and regularly played for Malvern, where she lives.
She was well respected and liked by both pupils and colleagues, but left King's to spend more time with her family, particularly her young children, David and Tom. The girls' games department wish herevery happiness and success in the future. She was a friend to us all and we were very sad to see her leave.
N.R.A.
Loraine had stepped briefly in to help out with my teaching while I was away in 1996 but returned last year to teach part-time for the full year. She was a lively and popular teacher, approaching everything that she taught with enthusiasm and good humour and forming friendly relationships with all whom she taught.
She will also be missed on the climbing wall and with various other outdoor activities which she greatly enjoyed. She is expecting a baby later this year and we wish her all the best and look forward to meeting the new arrival and seeing her again soon.
R.C.J.D.
ANGELAKIRTON
Angela Kirton joined the Biology department in 1996 to teach part time. She proved to be an enthusiastic teacher, her role expanding last year to include the teaching of Diploma. She will be remembered not only for her stimulating approach to the subject but also for the
odd appearances in the Department from time to time. She has now goneon tojoin the Sexual Health Promotion Unit in Worcester.
R.A.F.
Susan taughtchemistry on apart-time basis for a year. As a practising Pharmacist she brought an area of expertise into the department, from which both pupils and staff benefited - her talk to the Sixth Form London Board Chemists on adapting drug molecules to influence their uptake was particularly appreciated ( a question on this topic came up in the '98 exam paper ! ). She was always a conscientious and dedicated class-room teacher - I would like to thank her for her efforts over the year.
R.P.G.
Chris joined the Physics Department in September last year, having just obtained her PGCE from Lancaster. She brought with her a background in engineering and an expertise in Maths, both of which she put to good use in her teaching (her cardboard engineering was particularly advanced). Miss L (many pupils were not up to the challenge of pronouncing Lewthwaite) was also a valuable contributor to other areas of life at King's. Her excellent double bass playing and her involvement in school athletics being made most welcome. The call
of a higher degree and student life has taken her away from King's to Reading University and we thank her and wish her well for the future.
K.A.P.W.
Helen joined the Art Department in September 1997 as a first appointment following a PGCE course in London. She plunged straight into the busy life of the popular examination studios and coped remarkably well. Many pupils benefited from her intelligent teaching. A group of sixth form A Level artists were amazed and delighted to find themselves face to face with Helen's work when visiting the prestigious Contemporary Arts Fair in Islington, London. Helen had modestly failed to tell us that her work would be on show. As well as teaching across the senior school age range, Helen ran the evening life-drawing classes and joined in a Lower Remove camp - much to the delight of the accompanying male member of staff ! Unfortunate1y for the Art Department Helen decided that she would rather pursue her own work. She has embarked upon an MA at Aberystwyth University and is teaching BA students. I am sure she will be very successful at both ventures and we look forward to seeing her name amongst the up and coming generation of young artists. Helen was a quiet, charming and sensitive colleague. We wish her well.
E.R.H. menagerie
sc~oo~haswelcomedelevennew members of staff to the Common Room.
Simon Atkins is to take charge of Drama and theTheatre, and to teach English. Simon graduated in Drama and Theatre Arts at Birmingham University and spent a year as a trainee director at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School before returning to Birmingham to complete a PGCE. He was a Lecturer in Drama and Performing Arts at Kidderminster College for ten years, becoming Head of Drama in 1994. A keen actor and director, he is an active member of both the Swan Theatre Company and Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society. He also enjoys music and swimming.
An addition to the Girls' Games Department is Jo Clark. She graduated from the College of St Paul and St Mary and has recently been Head of Girls' P.E. at the Astley Cooper school in Hemel Hempstead. Jo has been a sports enthusiast with a special interest in hockey and tennis but since the birth of her two children her time for these sports has been restricted!
Sandra Hale is to teach Design and Technology part time. She studied Fine Art at Exeter and Three Dimensional Design (Ceramics) at Cardiff. Since she taught Art, Design and Special Needs courses at her local F.E. College, Sandra has been a youth worker and a pottery evening class teacher and two years ago took her PGCE at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff.
Robert Jones has joined the Economics andBusiness Studiesdepartment. He graduated from Swansea University and having completed his PGCE at Worcester College of Education he taught for three years at Dauntsey's School, where he coached the 1st XV and was Master in charge of Rowing. Robert is a keen oarsman and after university he rowed full time in Nottingham with a good deal of success.
The English departmenthas welcomed Gill Kendrick who is to teach on a part time basis. She has taught English in a number of schools in the County, particularly The Chase High School in Malvern where she worked for six years. More recently she has beenlecturing at WorcesterCollege of Technology, raising two daughters and supporting her husband in his graphic design business.
Monica Longley is a new member of the Girls' Games Department. Having graduated in Mathematics from Caerleon College in South Wales, Monica taught Maths and P.E. in Surrey before 'taking time out with my three children'. Her interests include all team sports, music and interior design.
Annabel McAuley has joined the Chemistry Department, having taught at Canford School for four years. She graduated in Chemistry from St Andrew's University and studied for her PGCE at Homerton College, Cambridge. Sports are her main interests, particularly hockey, netball and
aerobics, but she's willing to give anything a go, even bungy jumping!
Rowena Terry has arrived to teach in the Art Department. In 1987 she graduated in Fine Art and went on to study for an M.A. in Sculpture at the Chelsea School of Art. All areas in Fine Art interest her and she continues to practise her own work. Before teaching Rowena was involved in cornmunity and arts proiect work, and recently " much of her time has been spent with her two young children, developing her football skills!
Jean Vivian has joined the school's I.T. Department from Rugby College where she taught I.T. for ten years and was the I.T. and Key Skills Coordinator. Among her interests are photography, walking, cooking and learning to speak Greek and she has just taken up Hatha Yoga. Her son has joined the school's Lower Sixth year. Jean's only (dubious) claim to fame is that she was once Nuneaton Ladies' Pool Champion!
The Physics Department welcomes Gary Williams who has arrived from Brecon High School. Gary graduated through The Open University and studied for his PGCE at Homertoncollege, Cambridge. Although his one-year-old son seems to take up a lot of his spare time, one of Gary's hobbies is Triathlon. He has competed in a wide variety of these events with varying degrees of success, and he hopes to introduce some pupils at King's to the sport. Other hobbies of his include playing the guitar and mandolin, climbing, canoeing, hill walking, archery and mountain biking.
The school's new Artist in Residence is Kate Wood, who studied History of Art at Warwick University and completed a PGCE at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff.
Kate is using her residency as an opportunity to extend her own mixed-media work. Besides Art she enjoys horse riding and foreign travel.
T'E SUMMERTERMOF 1998 saw two notable moments in the long history
f The King's School and the short history of its development towards becoming fully coeducational. The first was the appointment of Jennifer Pearce (for September 1998) as the first girlHead of School, and the second was that the Upper Sixth, which produced the best ever A level results and record number of admissions to Oxford and Cambridge,
The,first 25 Senior School I / yecrr- old girls trs they join the school in 1991 was the first coeducational cohort to go great fun. 'Make the School coeducational' through the Senior school from 11 to 18. was the working brief I was given on apThey arrived in the Senior School in pointment. During the six months before I September 1991. More than a year's de- amved, the Senior Management Team, led tailed planning had gone into preparing for by the Headmaster and the then Director of their amval, and like the subsequent seven Studies, Bob Burkill, organised a coeducayears, it was all tremendously hard work but tion management team and nine sub-com-
mittees which looked at buildings, uniform, entry into our Fourth Forms, the structure and organisation of Houses, extra cunicular activities, sport and PE, PR and publicity, Sixth Form accommodation and inservice for staff. Some began work immediately; others waited until I arrived. We deferred work on cumculum matters until 1992 when we conducted a full curriculum review. In the meantime, of course, the academic departments conducted their own subject reviews to make sure that everything was suitable for both boys and girls. We were very conscious of the need to avoid putting the girls always in the spotlight and making the boys feel overlooked - not always easy to achieve, especially when we set about providing extra changing rooms for the girls!
We publicised 'going coed' widely and recruited 25 girls age l l for the Senior School for September 1991. In the Junior School, who had been responsible for their own planning, going coed occurred vertically, so to speak, by extending the age range downwards from 8 to 7 and adding two extra forms of fifteen each at the bottom of the Junior School - the first girls were admitted there at 7. In the Senior School, we expanded horizontally by taking in an extra 25 pupils a year for five years from 11 up to the age of 16. We already had a coeducational Sixth Form of about 270 and felt that we could not expand that any further. By September 1995 there were girls throughout the School. It took 4 years for our first Junior School coeducational cohort to feed through into the Senior School, and five years for our first Senior School cohort to reach the Sixth Form. It was anticipated in 1989 that the maximum size of the School would become 1,005-our number on roll in September 1997 was 1,007 - 630 boys and 377 girls. The restriction on numbers was to do with the constraints of finance, our site and accommodation, but also a strong feeling that we did not wish to become any larger than that - or the School would become too impersonal.
We still need to keep telling people we are now a 'coed' school. It seems to take many years for that message to percolate through the whole of local society! Both boys and girls have been successful academically, andin achievements in sport and other activities. The first coed Himalayan trip which took place last year is a good example. Most importantly, young people enjoy school life and growing up together as a natural preparation for adult life. Long may it flourish!
The sarne girl.\ irl their U/~/,erSi,vth yec~t-
and despite a lack of real experience they accredited themselves admirably in the various inter-CCF competitions. The first challenge they faced was the March and Shoot Competition which was held on SennybridgeTraining Area. The contingent entered two teams, and this meant
The school rifle range. Bob Hinds with Richard Jefferson- that all cadets particiLoveday, Peter Van Zyl and Peter Lau. pated.
The Army section joined 'forces' with the
The weather on the day was appalling, Royal Grammar School Army section to with heavy rain and avery strong wind and form the Worcester contingent at the Cen- this made the three march very hard tral~~~campat~wrt-y-~ollen,near~rickwork - especially for Captain Featherstone howell. All hostilities between the two who Was given the it groups were postponed for the duration of twice. The march endedat the Sennybridge the camp and the contingent worked well Assault Course, which was then tackled by together. The contingent consisted mainly the cadets. of basics, with a few apex and cadre cadets, Unfortunately was
WITH THE RAF SECTION
The RAF Section visited the Royal Artillery Adventure Training Centre at Dolwydellan, North Wales in the second week of the summer holidays - for most this followed their RAF Camp. Unfortunately Flight Lieutenant Whitehouse was unable
to attend due to illness, so Captain Featherstone from the Army Section supervised instead. The week started with a visit to a Quad-biking track where everybody had a one hour ride - they all came back covered in mud from head to foot, as the weather had been rather 'damp' there. After a quick change and wash (well some of them washed!) the group returned to the centre in order to pick up the orienteeringequipment.
At the Llyn Elsi orienteering course they were divided into teams and set off for a competition. One group decided to play Animal Hospital when they returned with an injured crow - it was dealt with and they continued to hunt for checkpoints, although they eventually arrived back half an hour after the cut-off time.
The next day there was a mountain walk, from which everybody returned absolutely shattered, but the next day they were up 'bright and breezy,' ready for canoeing and rafting. Everybody was given an opportunity to display their swim-
due to the appalling weather - the wind kept blowing the falling plates over, so the competition was completed the next day when the weather improved. The King's part of the Worcester contingent displayed significantly better weapon handling skills than their RGS counterparts - thanks to the hard work of Captain Rudge over the last year.
The poor weather continued throughout the first half of the week and this resulted in the 24 hour exercise being curtailed early; howeverthe remaining few days were much better. The First Aid competition involved pints of fake red blood and plasticene for the casualties - and some of the rescuers! In fact there were a number of cadets who still had redears and necks several days later, as well as badly stained kit. On the final day the contingent visited Llangorse for Climbing at the indoor centre, and Canoeing at the lake. A good time was had by all, although there was a resumption of hostilities once all the equipment had been returned to the RGS stores!
rning skills, and James Scott demonstrated how Titanic must have sunk. The remaining two days consisted of Climbing and Bouldering at the Beacon Climbing centre, except for the sick, lame and vertically challenged, and Mountain Biking, which everyone enjoyed. The trip to the centre was thoroughly enjoyable, even for those who had been at Easter as well.
N.F.
Adventurous training at Dolwydellan
During the course of the year a group of between twenty and thirty sixth-formers have been working towards the completion of thejive sections of the award. The activities that they have taken part in are many and varied.
For many participants the most demanding section of them all is the Expeditions section. Here is a reportwritten by Rebecca Birtwhistle about her qual~fying expedition, undertaken in the Summer of 1998.
J.T.W.
DAY 1: Tuesday 3 June1998
Starting point: Minor road near bridge over River Lickle (239,928)
Departure time: 09:30
Camp site: Near Langdale Beck, Chapel Stile
With two damp days of acclimati sation behind us and over 80km ahead of us our real expedition began with a trend that was to stay with us for the rest of our expedition: leaving late. Delayed by half an hour (not entirely our fault), we needed to make up time before we even started, quite an achievement at this early stage. The first session of walking stirred various emotions in us, for myself a mixture of anticipation and apprehension, as I was becoming increasingly womed that the weather would not hold. On previous practice expeditions we had been blessed with gloriously sunny weather which, if anything, had almost been too hot to walk in. Now however it was overcast, damp and threatening more rain (the nature of which we had experienced during the two acclimatisation days). My other main worry was for the fitness of the group. At the time of our intended qualifier, the previous year, the group was in pretty good physical condition. Now, after a severe reduction in sport during the exam timetable I feared that my fitness would not be sufficient to keep pace with four
boys who were all preparing for Officer training. Debra and Claire seemed to share this feeling, with Claire denying that her continual presence at the school boathouse would have had any benefit to her fitness. I began to wish that I had gone running a little more often than I had. In all fairness, the boys did try to reassure us that our fears were unjustified and that they were just as unfit as we were, a likely story.
Such conversation and confrontation of our fears occupied most of the first leg. 'How much further?' 'Why are we doing this?' and 'Can we stop now, I'm tired already' were all phrases in commonuse for some time. This was scarcely surprising as, early into the first stage, we found ourselves ascending towards White Pike. When the forest we were supposed to be following the edge of appeared as stumps, our first practice expedition was called to mind. On that particular occasion we had been confronted by just such a situation as we tried to orientate ourselves down from a misty hilltop, only to discover that the forest we had been looking for had in fact been felled and the detour sign was lying discarded on the ground. This set us to reminiscing about our first trip, in similar weather conditions, and even more so when we eventually came across a similar detour sign. Withno wish to make a similar mistake so early in the proceedings we decided to stop and check exactly where this detour was going to take us. Satisfied that everything was as it should be and having taken the opportunity to remove a few layers of clothing we pressed on. The route to Walna Scar gave us an indication of the type of terrain we were to
expect for the rest of the day, very boggy and in places slippery underfoot. Wet boots for the rest of the trip was not a pleasurable thought, thankfully it never became a reality. If we had thought ourselves justified in moaning about the ascent that we had just made, then we were in no way prepared for the scramble to the top of Walna Scar and along WalnaScar Road. Inactual fact it was not totally the incline of the slope which made progress slower at this point but rather the terrain. The choice between smooth, slippery grass, or the scree, with a tendency to collapse underneath us, was a difficult one. We each adopted different approaches, some more successful than others. For my own part I chose the unpredictable nature of the scree for much of the time, which in retrospect may have been a mistake given the effect that slipping and sliding had on my ankles. As we headed in the direction of Brown Pike the mist began to set in and once again Debra, Oliver, Adam and I all felt a sense of deja-vu from our first expedition. Our conversation was momentarily stoppedas we wereconfronted by two mysterious figures who seemingly appeared from nowhere. These strange apparitions told of a warm cafe at the top of the hill and steaming cups of coffee. This was a cruel taunt for a group who was banned from enjoying such indulgences for the rest of the week. The strange appearance of these figures set us to wondering whether in fact the area was haunted by the ghosts of lost walkers, and whether we ourselves were doomed to join them. We pondered over potential headlines for the discovery of our disappearance:
FictitiousLakeDistrictcafe claimsnewvictims
Luckily however the mist soon cleared once we had dropped to the other side of Brown Pike and we were able to continue as before, feeling it unwise to stop for too long given the weather conditions. During our descent we met Group B coming in the opposite direction. The meeting had its advantages in the form of a warning about the boggy nature of the ground towards which we were heading. Given this information it seemed sensibleto adjust the route slightly thus avoiding us joining Becky in her fashionable trend of water soaked trousers. Having taken the trouble to don gaiters, (an item of kit for which I constantly expressed my hatred), it was almost annoying not to have crossed terrain which required their use, but in the long run it was probably best that we didn't. By lunch time we were unlikely to require gaiters later in the day, so I gratefully took advantage of an opportunity for removing them and thrusting them to the bottom of my rucksack where, thankfully they remainedfor the rest of the trip.
REBECCABIRTWHISTLE
In two visits, between April and May, about 40 Lower Sixth geographers carried out two days fieldwork on the Gower Peninsula in South Wales. Whilst the programme was the same for both groups, the weather was infinitely kinder on the second group.
There is no question that the first journey was the most interesting! MRG seemed more intent on finding his pantometer than Parc leBreos, our destinationon the Gower. Thus our rather extended journey took us via his and Lauren Lawson-Pratt's house. Even though the pantometer was found it wasn't in a very good state of repair, rather like our evening meal that had been 'kept hot' for the one and a half hours that we were late. Fortunately MRG wasn't put off by any of this and he led an excellent post meal session on the geology and coastal configuration of the Gower.
The first morning saw both groups visit the patella raised beach at Langland Bay. This nationally famous site for unravelling past climatic history and sea level change overthe last 120,000years was an excellent starting point. For many in both groups the theory of the classroom at last made sense. For the second visit the weather was splendid and AWL seemed at one with his sub-
ject as he gazed over and beyond his busy students to the golfers on Langland Bay golf course.
After a fleeting visit to the thrust fault in Caswell Bay, we headed west for the afternoon. At Oxwich Bay the groups profiled the sand dune system and we then travelled to Rhossili and Worm's Head to sketch the impressive limestone cliffs.
On the second day we made anearly start, taking the short drive to Three Cliffs Bay. This beautiful bay was at its best for the second group and after the short walkdown, some 'yahooing' in the dunes and a jovial crossing of the Pennard Pill stream, we were at the foot of Three Cliffs and its hugely impressive arch. Although it was day two, AWL and MRG were clearly losing their ability to engage their groups' attention as everyone's gaze moved to the top of the highest cliff where SCC was sitting! Such excitement could only be followed in one way and that was some beach sediment analysis at Pwll du Bay. Then home, via a Swansea McDonalds.
Our fleeting visit allowed both groups to pick up many ideas for projects and some excellent examples for their coastal geomorphology essays. It was also the usual mix of good company and fun.
A.W.L.
This year's King's Herald (underthe name The Herald) included a number of innovations. This was to he the year of colour. Connect Business Systems very kindly allowed us the use of a high-end colour copier/printer/scanner which produced fullcolour pages in A3 format. We included a special technology section called herald.htm1 and published a large section of the newspaper on the World Wide Web (http:/hw.ksw.org.uk/herald.html). Dun Hankins arranged an interview with Worcester's MP. Mike Foster and some interesting features included El nifio, the Millennium Bug and Channel 5, along with some excellent graphics by Kenji Lim. In the event we came runner-up to The Manchester Grammar School and were awarded a Distinction by Cherie Blair at the Houses of Parliament.
J.M.R.
MAKING A NEWSPAPER
- ANDREWMCFEE
At the first meeting, aboutthree weeks before 'newspaper day', the willing
volunteers informed the staff running the activity (Mr Roslington, Head of IT and English Department members, Mrs Griffiths and Mr Prowle) of what they were good at and what they wanted to do. There were lots of jobs that needed to be done by the 28 people on the teamadvertiser, feature writers, and production people. There was also aneed for PageMaker people (DTP - desktop publishers). An editor, Jon Wheal, was appointed and different people delegated to different tasks. The paper was to be 24 pages in total. As the day approached, more and more features were produced, and in the week running up to newspaper day, the design team started to plan the pages. On the Wednesday night before the competition, we started deciding which items might go where. Everybody was there. The system worked as follows: The DTP people would construct the pages by placing reports and pictures gathered by the reporters onto the pages and adding headlines and finishing off the pages. They would then print certain parts ('tiles') of these pages, and gave the printouts to the production team, who stuck each item onto the master pages. (These master pages were to be sent to the Evening News to print 1000 copies of our paper) Having personally finished at 11:30 pm on Wednesday night, I was looking forward
to the next day arriving at 650 am and starting to put pages together. By about 9am I was still in high spirits. Everything seemed to be going well and it looked like we would finish the paper in plenty of time. It was then that I was asked by the editor (Jon Wheal) to "make up" the first page. He considered me to be the best 'student desk top publisher' in the team, and as such wanted me to produce the first page. I viewed this as just another page to do, and wasn't really worried by the prospect that it would bethe page that people would see first. I settled down to work, and it was then that Mr Roslington came to talk to me: "You do realise that if the front page looks bad then the paper will not be a success don't you?'It then struck
Katie Brine (Reporter and Desk Top 1 Publisher) - "As I hope to become ajournal- I ist, the Newspaper Day was a rewarding and valuable experience. I enjoyed every minute. Overall, I found the day to be really great fun. While I was working, I hated doing it, but at the endof the day, when there were five copies of 'The Herald' and the 'herald.htm1' technical supplement sitting on the table finished and ready to go, the feeling was brilliant. I think everyone felt [t same." ,
phrase which
me: the front page would have to be very good indeed. I began to feel the pressure of the day. As I was working, I could see that everyone around me was becoming stressed, too. People who were normally perfectly calm and rational were running around like headless chickens as the deadline approached. Included here are some comments from my peers:
CeredigCattanach-Chell(Scanningand graphics processing) - " My only lifeline on the actual day was the coffee and the bacon sandwiches! It was non-stop work from 6:30am to 5pm - only stopping for breakfast at 8:OOam. It was very rewarding when I trimmed the first completed copy in the guillotine, and the teamwork throughout the day was amazing."
two importance last ticked to a that, transmuted into a As reports began morning's and, most eI mail team creaked optirnisti- I cally also I carry lunchtime out I of my the writing assistantand still I Duringt increasing1 paper: became down cardboard master the advertisements in advance. had notreally the pages; deadline filled. cornplereu. at last mag impending ically to be Each A3 sheet, in black and photocopied more than kindly costing house, were "..-
I cess, I the to tne challenge
with Cherie Blair
I
I
"May you live in interestingtimeswsays the
I! ARCHIVES
-old Chinese proverb, implying that this is a ' slightly dubious pleasure. These are indeed s has been a very industrious year "interesting times" for the school library, indeed for the School Archives. As but all those concerned are in fact enjoying well as cataloguing and filing of them very much.
idocuments,photographs and artifacts relat-
In common with all libraries, the school ing to the school and dealing with plentiful 1 library is undergoing great changes. No and diverse requests for information, we longer is it just a repository for books: now have also been involved in various events in it contains information in all the formats and around the school and there are many with which we are now familiar - books, more in the pipeline. CDs, videos, magazines.newspapers, audi- I The revised version of 'TheHisto~ of the otapes and CD ROMS. It also has access to King 'S School and its site ' was published in the Internet and its almost limitless possi- May out of the proceeds of the previous bilities. edition. It has received some welcome comI Not only can pupils find the information pliments, particularly from Michael Grunthey need from any one of these sources, I dy of the Evening News in two articles this they canthenphotocopy it, cutupthe result summer, and has had a mention in the and i~corporateit in a project which they bibliographies of a couple of recent local can word process and bind. They can buy histories which is also encouraging. The any stationery they need, produce posters book is now available at Waterstones, the and laminate them, watch videos and listen Cathedral Shop and the School Shop. to tapes.
iWe are now on the Internet at the King's
They can search for information held in ' School web site, thanks to Tom Wall and the library via a computerised catalogue, JMR, and our first surfer lives in Saudi from which they can print out bibliograph- Arabia! ical details or lists of titles. The Librarian j Over the past year, we have gained more knows at any one time who has borr~wed material to add to the growing collection. what, which are the most popular titles, Of particular note are the unique drum- I whichitemsareneverread thepermuta- mer's sash from the days of the Officer , tions are endless! TrainingCorps,probably given tothe School
And there is more to come. Over the next in the 1920s,a Victorian teacher's desk and year we hope to produce guides to the chairkindlyrescuedbyPCT,variousschool literature of various subject areas to help caps and a pair of dividers of an original sixth-formers to become familiar with the twenty or so found in the ceiling of College background to their chosen subjects, and to Hall when the fans werebeing installedthis introduce all students to the joys of search- summer. Apparently duringthe 1940swhen ing the catalogue and improving their li- College Hall was still used as a classroom, brary skills. 1
D; not think, however, that we have completely abandoned the book, for we certainly have not. Pupils in the top year of the Junior School are introduced to the library, and some use it regularly to read for pleasure well before they arrive in the Senior School. Fourth formers now take part in a scheme to encourage them to continue to , do so, studentsregularly review new books, I and among the topics we have highlighted ' this year, using materials from the library stock, have been the Titanic, Joe Simpson's I visit to the school, Hornblower and Nelson's Navy, and the Gunpowder Plot with l its many local connections.
"Interesting times" indeed - long may they continue!
ALISONSCAIFF
wards the roof to try to get them to stick on to the wooden ceiling. A number of OVs at the most recent OV dinner seemed to know quite a lot about the practice. One wonders I how many of the countless teachers and pupils sitting in College Hall over the next half century actually knew that they were doing so while potentially lethal missiles hung suspended from the roof above their heads.
We have also been given a two-page spread,with photographs, from a copy of 'St James Budget' which describes the Worcester Cathedral Grammar School 1, (that's us) in glowing terms. It is dated January 25th, 1895. A collection of cups and shieldsfrom Choir House came to us on its demise as a boarding house and among them is a beautiful silver tankard dedicated to the memory of an OV killed in 1916 on the Western Front in the First World War. Judging from his obituary by the headmaster, Canon Chappel, his death was a tragic waste.
The Archives Department set up an exhibition for King's Day where we combined our archives of the OTC (forerunner of the CCF) and OVs killed in the Great War with the Upper Remove Battlefields trip. It l seemed to work and provoked a great deal of interest from parents. Jonathan Hartwright worked particularly hard to research for it after his A levels and then got himself employed in the record office at County Hall asasumrnerjob. It pays tobeamember of K.S.W.Archives!
Again, we want to thank all the kind OVs who have contacted us over the past year to retell their experiences at King's and to donate or let us photocopy their mementos. Staff too have 1 contributed, particularly DPI, JKLB, RAF and Mrs Fleming,but most of all this year JMM, who passed all sort of interesting items to us and whose support has been invaluable. As always, we encourage the donation of more archive material from everyone.
CHRISEm/ Pm 1.
large exhibition of GCSE and A Level work at an external venue has now become an annual event of the Art Department. The Royal Worcester Porcelain played host to an exhibition during January and February. This proved a good site, attracting not only local visitors but those from across England and abroad. The visitors' book contained many interesting and encouraging comments.
Two weekend jewellery workshops were funded by a small lottery grant which had been awarded in response to a joint application with West Midlands Arts. Thevisitingprofessional jeweller proved akind and patient teacher. The metal mobiles produced by member5 of the Upper Remove and Fifth Form were displayed in a public exhibition in Birmingham.
Four further weekend workshops were led by aprofessiona1 visiting sculptor and the work
cellent grades achieved by the GCSE pupils.
Two professional painters and an illustrator exhibited their work in separate exhibitions in the Theatre Gallery. Many pupils, parents and friends enjoyed slide talks by the artists followed by convivial private viewings. At other times during the year the Theatre Gallery and dining hall were filled with a broad range of pupils' work.
Residential field trips, during the Autumn and Spring half-term holidays, to St. Ives, Cornwall continued for GCSE and A Level pupils. On three separate trips we visited galleries and studios, participated in workshops and enjoyed lectures by internationally known artists.
Perhaps the highlight of the year was an exhibition in March of Lower Sixth A Level art sketch books at The Tate of the West, St. Ives. This was a great honour and a delight in wood contributed to the ex- for the pupils concerned.
E.R.H.
Speaking and debating competitions proliferate likecoathangers, and we entered six during the season. The Midlands Schools Debating Competition is now wellestablished, as is Tom Wall in our speaking teams; he was joined by Jake Brazier, and they put up a good defence of the legalisation of soft drugs - but not good enough, the adjudicators decided, to ensure progress to the second round. The other debate was the Observer Mace (at least 35 years old, and now run by the English-Speaking Union), where Tom Wall had a new partner in Peter Jennings to defend the concept of cloning. Once again, a great performance but no reward.
We fielded two thirds of last year's highly successful team in the ESU Public Speaking Competition, whose first round was held in our theatre. Joe Watson chaired, Alex Lee spoke, and newcomer David Evans subjected another team to hisquestions. We might have won - but didn't! But I must mention the success of Amy Donovan and the girls of College House in providing all the competitiors and audience with refreshments.
In February we entered two Rotary competitions on consecutive nights, which in itself produced some drama. At Malvern three competitiors spoke on different subjects: first Jake Brazier made the Queen Mother seem like a dangerous leftie
when he argued that women should not fight in the front line; second Jenny Pearce, appropriately forafuture Head of School, spoke about the banning of smoking; and finally Alex Lee talked about the significance of the millennium (which he was careful to explain begins in 2001). As a team they came second, which was pretty good, considering that Alex Lee - unknown to him at the time - had chickenpox! This was rather awkward, as he was the main speaker in one of our teams at the next day's Worcester Rotary competition. But Henry Willmott stepped into the breach at two hours' notice, adapted Alex's speech on cloning to his own purposes, and delivered it with apparent conviction and
great aplomb. His team, which included Tom Wall as chairman and Daniel White as proposerof the vote of thanks, came a creditable third. The other team also suffered a withdrawal through illness; Jo Inchbald chaired, Ed Cumming spoke and answered questions on mountaingorillas, andLiaSaied - again at a few hours' noticegave the vote of thanks.
The final event was the Cheltenham Competitive Festival, where the old firmof Jo Watson, Alex Lee and Tom Wall won second place. You may have noticed that we didn't actually win anything this year. But, in case anyone should doubt the usefulnessof suchactivities, remember the Conservative Party Conferenceat Bournemouth!
R.N.G.S
T'is year a small but very loyal team of Removes and Sixth Formers has
worked on Saturday mornings tidying and pruning gardens for elderly people who can no longer do this for themselves. During the Summer they cut and raked overgrown lawns with energy and enthusiasm and some have told us how much better they feel after two hours spent working for other people. We realised that "Community Service" has at least two interpretations when one of our hosts remarked on what a pleasant group of people they are!
Others in the group have visited a blind lady who lost her sight twenty years ago. They chat with her and read the Worcester papers, keeping her in touch with the local events. During the winter months they have brought her to concerts in school in the evenings.
Some of our students carry out this work as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award, while others do it purely for exercise and enjoyment. They are an excellent group of young people.
J.M.K.
MATHEMA TICAL CHALLENGES
GOLD certificates were awarded to pupils in each of the following categories. UK SENIOR MATHEMATICAL CHALLENGE 1997
Jennifer Pearce (L6), Andrew Loxley (U6) and Matthew Painter (L6) UKINTERMEDIATEMATHEMATICAL CHALLENGE 1998
5th Form:Anthony Relle, Ian Hawkes, Philip Cox, Benjamin Hickling, David Evans, Alice Watts, Joanna Inchbold and Laura Mathew.
Upper Remove:Thomas Colley, Edward Curnming, Samuel Bayliss, Stephen Daly, Elizabeth Lewis, Michael Parks, Patrick Heslip and Henry Sandbach. Lower Remove:Duncan Williams, Ben Pitts, Mark Ogle and Russell Wakely. UK JUNIOR MATHEMATICAL CHALLENGE 1998
Upper Fourth:Thomas Rosoman, Jamie Morris, Michael Chaffey, Alex Humpage, Rebecca Keen, Rachael Dawson, Bonnie Posselt and Marc Kennedy.
Thanks are due to all those who took part - I hope they learned much in the process - and to MJR and CMC who organised two of the events.
During the past year, a number of local business people gave up a lot of their spare time to help as Advisers to our six Young Enterprise Companies. Over one hundred of our Lower Sixth formers had the opportunity to set up and run Companies which marketed, produced and sold a wide variety of goods. Six members of staff gave some of their free time to act as link teachers. The students were to be seen at the Worcester Christmas Street Fair as well as the Spring Fair, in the Guildhall. Companies were marked for the trade stands they produced and SMART gained the highest marks and was presented with a shield. This company was advised by Trevor Lloyd-Adams from Worcester Crowngate and Scott Summerfield from the Severn Trent River Authority; HMA was their link teacher.
All our companies were required to make a presentation in front of an audience in the school theatre to describe what they had been doing. It was interesting to see how many were able to use Powerpoint. Marks for their trade stands, for their presentations and for the business reports they eventually submitted were added for the many companies from all the schools and colleges in the Worcester, Malvern and Pershore areas. The best six were then called to make a final Presentation at St Mary's Convent School at the annual Presentation Evening, which
was financially supported by Beatties.
Once again, SMART emerged triumphant and so went on to represent South Worcestershire in June at the Regional Final at the Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon. Here, the students performed splendidly and gained the award for the company with the best business skills. As a result, the students were invited to give a presentation and show their trade stand at the CBI National Conference at Birmingham's International Convention Centre in November.
As well as learning how businesses are run, all the students who took part in the Young Enterprise scheme had an opportunity to become better at working in a team, communicating with others, managing time and organising themselves- alluseful, transferable skills. Most of them had a go at the European Young Enterprise Exam. Here, the majority distinguished themselves and one, Tarik A1 Rasheed, showed such financial expertise that he was invited to London to the offices of Arthur Anderson for a special presentation.
I am extremely grateful to the six staff who got involved, to the nearly a dozen business people who came into the school to help us, and, particularly to Margaret Radnidge who gave up a great deal of her spare time to support all the people involved.
E.R.
T.D.R.H.
Some members of the winning Company (from the left, Abigail Green, Cassie Bray, Bethan Pickrell, Tim Astles, HMA, Georgina Dalton and sitting in front, Trevor Lloyd-Adams).
Due to the efforts of Frank Loveder and Gill Crawford, the club has built up aconsiderable momentum over recent years and, with around 30 pupil members at the beginning of the last academic year, has become the size of a typical BSAC branch from a town of 30,000 inhabitants! Gill and Frank certainly did a marvellous job in spreading the word that exploration of the "other two thirds of our planet that isn't dry land is a really worthwhile activity. A further 9 new entrants joined the club in October 1997, and the total membership is expected to stabilise in the year 2000 at approximately 35 members.
The club continues to rely heavily on volunteers from the Worcester City branch of the British Sub-Aqua Club both fortraining the new starters in the lecture room and swimming pool, and also supplying instructors and dive leaders to accompany Club members in the water on our trips to the coast and inland quarries. The city club also kindly allows us to rent their costly diving boats for UK coastal trips and this year we used the Worcester RIBS for two whole weeks in the summer, as well as for several weekend trips. This facility both reduces the cost for us to go diving and also enhances the fun level, since pupils who have passed their powerboat proficiency test are allowed to drive us in these powerful high-speed craft to and from the dive sites. With the expansion of the membership has come the opportunity to upgrade some of the kit. We now have 8 of our 12 aqualungs equipped with waistcoat-type buoyancy compensators,and have bought 8 wristworn dive computers to make our diving
more enjoyable as well as safer. On our trip to the Red Sea at New Year, (more about this later), there was quite a queue each day to download the the divecomputers onto the laptop PC in the evening so we could check our depth1 time profiles and see who had come closest to the ideal decompression profile. The experienced adults from the Worcester club who dive with us from time to time regularly comment on the excellent standard of skill, proficiency and enthusiasm reached by the pupils, which in turn makes it a real pleasure for them todive withthe King's club members. We took the computers 'diving' in January - but this time they were in a bucket of water and 10 of us were all in a large steel cylinder full of high-pressure air and located at the Diving Diseases Research Centre in Plymouth. At an air pressure equivalent to a depth of 36m (deeper than most recreational divers ever visit) our voices became squeaky in the densified air and simple mental tasks became more difficultfor some people, while others found their attention more focussed by the narcotic effect of the nitrogen. It's unusual for divers to visit these recompression facilities without having an accident first, so it was a useful day spent de-mystifying the treatment of diving accidents. This trip formed part of the more advanced training programme which has been introduced this year for the more experienced club members. Club members also attended an Oxygen Administration course and took part in Rescue Management training, both of which will stand them in good stead in later life when faced with diving ornondiving related emergencies. Ian Kingsley became the first pupil to take BSAC's Instructor Training Course last Octo-
ber, while Alex Kolodotschko, Angus Nicol and Chris King (val. 711998) also took the course in August this year. This means we have, for the first time, got pupils who are instructors, albeitjunior ones, and Ian, Alex and Gus are now qualified to help with training of the newer members.
But we didn't spend the whole yearlearning new skills - we spent a lot of time enjoying the freedom of weightlessness and the beauty and excitement of the underwater world. In last year's edition Frank wrote eloquently about the attractions of diving in the Red Sea. We clearly had to run this trip again, so this year 8 club members, David Petersen and I set off at 3am on Boxing Day morning for a week on board 'The Seagull', a super 75ft liveaboard vessel operating from Sham el Sheikh in the Sinai. On this trip, as well as the splendours mentioned by Frank, we were also able to visit several of the best wreck dive sites in the whole world. The famous 'Thistlegorm' wreck, only discovered by Cousteau in the '60s, was the main attraction, and we managed to get three memorable dives on this ship in one day. Now we know just how big a 15" naval shell really is, and what a BSA motorbike looks like after 50 years in the sea. Back on dry land at the end of the week, we all enjoyed a splendid but hair-raising quad-biking trip into the desert, which just went to prove Frank's assertion that we were a lot safer diving than we were during time spent off the water! The trip was a tremendous success and was also notable
sulted - without giving the game away, let's just say we could afford to make a £25 donation to the RNLI and still pat our wallets in the Asda fashion! and those of us who enjoyed shellfish dinners had free gourmet meals all week! This is another trip that will have to be repeated: the variety and richness of the sites we visited - five different wrecks all within an hour's motoring as well as the profusion of wildlife within the protection of the Sound make this an excellent venue for school trips.
Organisingand running all these trips has been quite a challenge, but the participation in them has always been a pleasure. Eighty two dive opportunities were logged during the year, and a total of 369 dives were made by pupils: I hope we can provide the club members with equally good dive opportufor Neil Harrison and Seb Pearce qualifying would find or give them something to eat. nities this year and that the adult support as Sports Divers, while Ian Kingsley The artist who could capture that scene tea, within the school becomes stronger, achieved the well-earned grade of Dive would be accused of hallucinating - but the JOHNKINGSLEY Leader on the last day of the year, which word 'spectacular' just doesn't do itjustice. also happened to be his 16th birthday. The In the summer holidays we stroke of Midnight - New Year was celebrated under 15 metres of water letting off party poppers in variously successful designs of waterproof envelopes. The CDT department would have been proud of us!
In April, six new trainees braved sheets of rain and a cold wind to get their first open water diving at Plymouth. Academic work seriously interrupted diving during the spring and early summer, (groan),but later in the summer term Henry Willrnott managed to stay cool enough under pressure of A-levels to join a super town club weekend in Plymouth when we dived together at the Eddystone Lighthouse and were able to savour one of Britain's finest coastal dives at its very best. Colour matched swatches of jewel anemones - red, purple, orange, fluorescent blues and greens - covered every rock so densely that we could not touch the stone, while brilliant blue and yellow cuckoo wrasse in their brightest mating plumage followed us like hungry puppies hoping we
had not one but two holiday diving weeks, and also a long weekend trip to Devon. The first holiday week was to Falmouth where we once again camped and dived the Hera and the wrecks and reefs around the Manacles rocks. Ian, Dave Hall, Alex Annis and Phi1 Ryder became the first treasure hunters in the club, and were seendisappearing onto the scrap-heap wreck of the Volnay armed with crowbars, and reappearing with much sought after brass timer mechanisms from the shells buried 20m below. Treasure of a different kind was found during the second holiday week, which was at the end of August when six club members (including Dan Juckes and Adam Jacovou who had just reached Sports Diver gradecongratulations) and three adults set off for the Isle of Mull and our flats in the main street of Tobermory. The diving in the Sound of Mull is spectacular and adventurous, so only the more experienced (Sports) divers came on the trip. Sheer underwater cliffs up to 150 feet high can be found in several places, and the local scallop boats can't reach the shellfish at the base of the cliffs. But divers can, and, having negotiated terms with the local RNLI Coxswain who was also the shellfish buyer, part of the week was dedicated to a new Young Enterprise project - "King's Scallops, Crabs and Squat Lobsters". A significant income re-
Abe an saw our fifth successive GCSE). Rather like a activity varies not as 'I predictably, somewhat [l quiescent. Pupils engaged in a variety of projects, includingtelescopebuilding, shadstick monitoring and sunspot observaThe Sun, of course, will he a popular observational target next summer when a solar eclipse, visible from the UK, place in August. We have already had sneak preview of this rare event using computer simulation, but we hope to be there (Cornwall) to see the real tlungweather permitting!
he Chess Club had eight fixtures throughout the year, against familiar opposition, losing just twice one of those narrowly). In spite of having to bid farewell to some excellent players from last year's Upper Sixth (Matthew Cross (Ch), Nick Mallaband (Br) and Johnson Lee (H), the team is still able to play to a very high standard, under the new captaincy of Belinda Wood (Cr), and there is plenty of depth at the moment. What is particularly encouragingis the standard within the Fourth forms, which came to light during the Fourth Form Chess tournament in September. Congratulations to Upper 4 D (William Smith, Guy Potter and Huw Dimond), who saw off their younger adversaries Lower 4 A in the final. In the
ANCE atKing9shasbeen All four groups performed to Inter-HouseCompetition, there was again a high standard
Dxtremely successful a high standard on King's Day, of play, with the Boarders competing zealously in their over the last year. We producingavariedprogramme. final year, but finishing runners-up to the reigning cham- started witha trip to Stratford to TheLower FourthsandLowpions Bright House (Ben Pitts, Alex Lee and Ed Cum- see 'Fame, The Musical'. Girls er Removes performed 'Interrning): they obviously know their skewers from their from all years and staff had a pretations' to the music, '0 wonderful time. We all enjoyed Fortuna' from CminaBurana the whole experience, watch- by Karl Orff. This is a very ing a very slick professional popular piece of music, which performance, and the sixth form inspiredlotsofideas. This group girlscamebacktotally inspired. had to cope with a lot of moveThis led to them wanting to mentchmges,andworkingwith perform a piece, using the title capes proved challenging. The song, for King's Day. The per- Upper Removes wantedto have ven by the high standards set by previous years' formers were Debra Parker, a little bit of fun, so chose the concerts, the 199718 season must rank as one of the
EBethan Pickrell, Anna Stokes, music, 'Hey Big Spender'. The est ever. Again five concerts were given and at Jess Page, GeorginaDalton and girls had had a taste of Jazz each the solo items were outstanding and the choir tackled Jenine Jones. Dance during their P.E lessons more and more demanding pieces, secular and sacred, as The beginning of the year and decided to perform for the year progressed. Two things, apart from their innate brought more new experiences. King's Day. The Fifth Years musicianship, contributed to their success. One was that Two members of the Phoenix wanted a challenge for their they were always willing and in most cases eager to attend Dance Company came into piece. Not only did they have two rehearsals a week so that they got to know how to sing school to take a Dance Work- hats to contend with, but chairs with each other and the other was the expert and enthusi- shop, increasingourmovement as well ! All the girls came back astic leadership that they had from Alastair Brookshaw. vocabulary, and the following to school after their exams to The choir also sang again at St Paul's Church in a concert evening we went to the Every- continuewith rehearsals andthis in aid of Leukernia research and at PAS and MAS's man Theatre in Cheltenham to certainly paid off, as an exwedding blessing in the Cathedral. see the company perform. A tremely slick perf~rmancewas Another outstanding contribution to each concert was totally exhilaratingexperience! the result. made by 'The Magnificent Seven', a small male group of T.D.M. singers. Not only were they in demand for school events but they also had many engagements in the City and County.
It has been noticeable this year that there has been a substantial increase in the numbers in the audience. Thw has certainly encouraged the performers.
As always we say goodbye to a talented group of musicians. Lydia Brookes, Alastair Brookshaw, Amy Donovan, Anna Myers, Rose Panter, Robert Webb, Stefan Agopsowicz, Sarah Bradley, Ceredig Cattanach-Chell, Chris King and Tom Mawby have all made valuable contributions to the concerts. We wish them well in their future music making.
It is difficulttoimagine the King's School F&tegetting yet bigger and better but, once more, the Development Committee managed just that. David Hall, the Chairman, and Angeline Pizzey, the Secretary,skilfully held the reins with several members of the team energetically pulling in different directions
aHUGE AMOUNT of workwent into the preparations.Chris Leeandhis team spentmany hours making andpaint-
ing a large number of brand new, colourful stalls, Muff Murfin procured the presence of the Gladiator, Wolf. Angeline Pizzey and David Hall - amongst all the very many other things they were doing - organised an army of parent helpers and planned the site, Gordon Griffithsdrurnmedupa battalion of slulled money-counters, Rita Timson cajoled a collection of caterers, John Blighwith HMA - organised the sale of raffle tickets for the Grand Draw, Deirdre White arranged for the School to be kitted out in special T-shirts,Di Savilleproducedasplendid programme for the FSte, Terry Thorn purchased an enormous number of goods to
ensure that the stallholders had lots to sell, MalcolmHarthired a series of major attractions, Jane Honan commanded the contents of the enormoustrailer that had spent weeks in the Playground,and Peter Sargent indulged his fantasies as joint site manager.
As the day approached, ER festooned the site with public address cables, and Chris Lee, cqingpublicity toextremes, went out at night and put up a large sign opposite our friends at the other end of town to entice their young men to our F&te- on the day when they were supposed to be in school, being taught . . . . The Bursar, as usual, worked with his maintenance team behind the scenes.
Early on the morning of the FEte, armies of parent helpers arrived to set up stalls and organise catering. Working parties of pupils moved practically everything that was not screwed to the floor, Houses set up their specialist areas, BG's barbecues began to smoke, Rita Timson's caterers began to cater, and Nick Witherick and his team began cooking. This time the theme was
crowd and shamed many of them into rolling dice for the jet ski. To win one had to produce seven sixes. Fortunately, for the sake of the fund-raising, no one produced seven although several committee members' hearts missed a beat when DEB produced six!
In the end it was avery long day and a lot of people were needed to clear the site. However, once again it was a marvellous occasion when pupils, their parents, and the staff work hard together and gain a lot of satisfaction from giving a great deal of fun to our many thousands of visitors.
raising about £25,000. Some of this is being used to improve facilities at our outdoor activities centre, The Old Chapel. The rest is being given to a number of local charities.
T.D.R.H.
And, of course, the extraordinary effort Pirates and a large number of likely - and put in by the Development Committee and unlikely - pirates began to appear. There all the parents who hel~edwas rewarded bv were big parrots, little parrots, extremely big parrots, upside down parrots, sideways parrots, parrots that fell to the floor, as well as eye patches which if you had nothing wrong with your eyes beforehand soon ensured that you did once you wore them. . . .
When the Fete opened College Green, College Hall, the School Gardens and the lawns outsidethe ChappelMemorial Room were all thronged with visitors. Stalls were doing a brisk trade, the barbecues were cooking vast numbers of sausages andburgers, the kitchens were producing endless chips, people were hurtling up and down horizontal bungee runs, and the Headmaster's favourite rock band was performing his favourite songs. In the middle of all of this, Gladiator Wolf was patiently, and with unnerving grace and charm, signing countless autographs.
As always, the School Gardens were awash with a multitude of small but ingenious stallsproduced by the children and parents of St Alban's. Outside College House, on the Green, there was a monstrous erection behind the bottle stall from which Chris Lee, dressed as a Pirate Captain, heckled the
THE HIMALAYAN CLUB
On Wednesday, 25th
circling overhead warn you March our group's thirty not to keep still for too six members travelled to long. The camel riding is Heathrow for the first leg of fun, if not a little painful, our month long adventure. and I have nothing but ad-
Our first port of call was miration for those who do Karachi. Because we were it regularly! compelled to spend 24
Our time in Kathmandu hours there 1 upgraded our was short as we had to fly accommodation to the Hol- up to Lukla to start our iday Inn Crown Plaza and trek. These internal flights included a guided tour to are always interesting and help fill in the time. Kara- on this occasion, because chi, like most large cities of of the size of the group, we ; the sub-continent, is a mix- had a choice of transportture of high opulence and helicopter or 16 seater airabject poverty. It never craft. They both had their ceases to amaze me the pleasures and the top of pride our guides always the runway was a buzz of seem to have in their town excitement and tales of when we would be utterly wonder. ashamed of some of the
We were due to spend sights if they belonged to the next two days teaching our culture. It is a bustling in Chaunrikaka School but 1 city of some thirteen mil-
Knrina Tipton in Kathinandu when we arrived we dislion inhabitants all going covered they were on three , somewhere. The streets are crowded. extract a tooth for 7rps (1%) whilst the weeks holiday. Nobody had told us that There are, however, havens of peace, rush hour traffic trundles by brings on an Nepali schools have 160festival holidays such as The Great Mosque, possessing instant bout of toothache and we beat a a year. GS, too, had arrived to take up her the largest unsupported dome roof in the hasty retreat and head for the beach. new voluntary teaching post unaware of world; an impressive structure allowing The prospect of strolling, or riding a the holiday structure. every whisper to be heard clearly. Jinah's camel, on the beach and dipping toes into Forced to abandon our teaching plans, Tomb incarcerated in a modern Taj Ma- the Arabian Sea conjures up romantic we left the gifts of teaching materials and hal, but falling short on the grandeur of its pictures. If romance is what you want, games equipment with the headmaster much older cousin. The riverside laundry this is the wrong place; the beach is dirty and headed off up the valley. I where only men are allowed to work. In with litter and the sand has quite a high The weather was not settled and as we contrast the roadside dentist who will mudcontent. Thevultures andBlackKites ascended Namche hill it started to snow. i
It continued snowing for 24 hours and by the time the skies cleared we were under two feet of snow with no chance of progression in such conditions. The Gokyo Valley, our next destination, was closed because of avalanche dangers, so we reorganised our itinerary and, following a day's delay, headed off up the Khumbu. It is remarkable how quickly the sun melts the snow away, even at altitude, and the opportunities for the boys to throw snowballs soon diminished. The girls were above such activities.
Our first objective was to climb Kala Pattar, at 18,545 feet, the highestpoint we were to achieve. It normally takes between two and three hours to climb the last 1500 feet but, despite an early start, we were under pressure as clouds were quickly bubbling up. There would be much disappointment if the classic views of Everest were obliterated at the crucial moment. Everybody reached the summit within an hour and a half, indicating the excellent level of fitness of the whole group. The views were magnificent and well worth the effort. Only three members of the team failed to reach this goal; one had a stomach upset and the other two were feeling the effects of altitude and lacked the energy for the final gruelling push. Quite a few of us, on return to Gorak Shep, at the base, were feeling the effects of using excesvive energy at altitude and although there was a great sense of achievement we were all quite subdued.
The following day we hiked up to Everest Base Camp where we were fortunate to meet a joint AmericanICanadian disabled team who talked to the group about their intentions. It was pleasing to hear, soon after our return to England, of that expedition's success in getting to the top. A fantastic achievement for an ablebodied man, more so for a man relying on prosthetics for his mobility.
It was with some relief that we descended from the cold harshness of base camp to the relative comfort and warmth offered us at 14,000 feet at Upper Pangboche.
The comfort was short lived, for we now had to head up the more remote Gokyo Valley. As we climbed into the upper valley we came across vast quantities of snow. Fun was had by all as we made our way slowly up the valley to the I village of Gokyo. I refer to it as a village 1 but it is really just a series of lodges nestling between the lateral moraine of I the Nzgombo Glacier and a frozen lake.
Dr Mark Sniitl7, Dritlit
An early morning start the next day took us to the summit of our second peak, Gokyo Ri, slightly lower than Kala Pattar but more magnificent in the view that it offers. On the top we were surrounded by a sea of peaks as far as the eye could see. Not only did we have stunning views of Everest but also Lhotse (4th highest), Makalu (5th highest) and Cho Oyu (6th highest). We really had a sense of being somewhere very special in the world and this feeling was increased when a Himalayan Griffon with a wing span of eight feet circled over our heads for several minutes. We spent quite some time on the summit, not wishing to descend but to stay there as long as possible. In the end we had to leave, but not before we left our own prayer flags fluttering in the freshening breeze.
The next day took us further up the Gokyo Valley, beyond the point where the majority of trekkers go. We were heading up to Scoundrel's View, reputedly the best view of Everest from any point. It was certainly magnificent; a totally unobstructed view of the whole of Everest.
But my attention was drawn elsewhere. I had another reason for coming here. I wanted to have a look at an unnamed and unclimbed peak a little further up the valley at the foot of Cho Oyu. This is the designated peak for the 2000 group to be the first to climb and while I was looking
'1 Wliite tincl JTW olz Gokj.o Ri
at it and photographing it the final permissions were being granted for us to tackle it. It is a thrilling prospect that we shall have a mountain in the magnificent Himalayas named after us - King's Peak.
The next two days of descent saw us ploughing through deep slushy snow and rivers of mud as the increasingly warm sun made changes under-foot. As we descended further the conditions improved allowing us to relax in the knowledge of our achievements.
We arrived in Lukla the day before our scheduled flight back to Kathmandu. When the day's flights have finished the runway becomes a playground for the villagers. An area has been cleared that looks remarkably like a cricket strip and it was on this strip that a group of men from the village soon started a game. Watching them, it soon became clear that much progress and development in their game had taken place since my last visit in 1996.This was not an opportunity to be missed, particularly with the likes of Dan Cullen, James Tustin and Charlie Daniel1 in our team, so we challenged them to a match. They accepted with great glee and one of them shot off to fetch a new ball, whilst another found a split sack of flour to mark out the crease. They were taking the challenge seriously. Much debate took place beforehand to determine the rules and it was agreed to play a 10 over per innings match. We batted first and we
JW, Sir E~I~IUIZ~ Hillaly ant
soon discovered that the wicket, being a stony runway, could not be relied upon to give an even bounce and the ball soon lost its shine as it clattered over the stones.
Despite some big hitting from Charlie Daniel1 and Dan Cullen our score of 72 runs was not enough and the local team cruised to victory. More debate followed, and it was decided to turn it into a series. English pride was restored when we won the second match.
It was with some sorrow that we said farewell to our crew who had looked after us with such care and devotion for the previous three weeks. They had made a lasting impression on us all.
Back in Kathmandu, I took a group to the Bal Mandir Orphanage to see the recently opened Kindergarten Project. This is a project we have wanted to support for some time. It turned out to be a most moving experience, seeing the wonderful work the coordinator is doing in the midst of deprivation and squalor. The children of the orphanage immediately latched on to their new visitors. Some of the children are mentally disturbed, some with physical problems and all emotionally deprived, yet our pupils handled the situation extremely well on the outside, but were obviously deeply touched by what they saw.
At the end of our visit we were able to donate £1950 towards the Kindergarten Project; the only light in an otherwise dim institution, the only breath of fresh air. This money was raised by the 1997Adults' trip and it is hoped that we may be able to further support this project. Meyrav Mor,
rl George Lowe, May 1998
the driving force of the project, visited us at school on the evening of Sunday 28th June and talked to a group of interested and concerned pupils and parents about her work.
Again we left Kathmandu, this time by road to the west in order to spend two days white water rafting on the Trisuli River. This not only gave us an opportunity to relax between rapids but also to observe one of the other faces of Nepal. It is such a contrast to the high mountains, with thatched mud huts providing homes for loin clothed fishermen casting nets into the water from the shore or from a dug out canoe. Some of the images are almost biblical and certainly there have been few changes in the last 2000 years. Added to the human interest, the wide variety of animal and bird life along the river make this such a valuable and informative part of the trip.
At the end of our two days rafting we travelled south to the border country with India and the Chitwan National Park. The mountains are now to the north and we are less than 200 metres above sea level. It is hard to imagine that less than a hundred miles to the north the land rises almost 9 vertical kilometres above sea level and the temperature change is as much as 60 degrees Celsius. Here it is hot and humid. Any movement brings beads of sweat to the surface of the skin. It is such acontrast to the experiences of only a week ago. Here we have come to see the animals of the Chitwan, the rhino, tiger and leopard being the main attractions. This is not Kenya. The animals are not in abundance
and you have to be patient and rely upon your elephant driver to use his knowledge and instincts to find them. It is such an exciting experience to come across these animals and we were particularly lucky to have a close, confrontational encounter with a leopard. Afterwards, as we drifted along the river in our dugout canoe, a fourteen feet long crocodile did what all Hollywood crocodiles do and slipped into the water as we passed close by. These are experiences to treasure for the rest of our lives.
We are also able to experience the life of the Tharu people, who inhabit this area. We are able to meet them, to go into their mud and thatch houses, to see for ourselves the basic lifestyle they lead. These people do not have running water, electricity, sanitation or any of the things we take for granted. Their houses are smoke filled and dark to deter the malarial mosquito from entering. Their lives are very simple and their horizons do not extend beyond each day's hard labour in the fields where they eke out a meagre living. We are privileged to experience this and are humbled by it.
We return yet again to Kathmandu for a frenzy of shopping. There is just one more serious function to fulfil. We met a group of people from UMN (United Mission to Nepal) who work in education, health and water related engineering projects. They have offered to give us a guided tour of their projects and I have expressed an interest in the Himalayan Club's involvement.
The tour revealed aspects of the real Nepal that are not always apparent at first glance. The poverty in the schools, not only of the pupils and their families but of the schools themselves is astonishing. They have nothing - no materials and no money for materials. Classrooms are dismal. Teaching is orally based and tends to be learning by rote. Discipline is physical. Despite all this, the children are incredibly enthusiastic.We were all shocked by what we saw but our students were remarkable. They went in and sat and talked with the children; their hearts went out to them, and the smiles of the children brought their own rewards.
We had no time to do more, but future groups may have a vocational element in their expeditions. It would mean a great deal to the students, to UMN who would coordinate our efforts to best effect, and more importantly to the people of Nepal. We returned to the UK much enriched by our experiences.
JOHNWALTON
Members of the 2000 group on tlze top of Helvelyn with Striding Edge in the background
0N THE 1~THDECEMBER a group of more than twenty fifth and sixth formers travelled to the ski resort of Les Menuires in the French Alps. For some it was their first time skiing, afact that would bring a good deal of amusement to the rest of the group!
Having spent what seemed like an age cramped in the coach, everyone was dying to hit the slopes. Unfortunately for Ed Tandy somebody had managed to fool him into believing that the latest fashion in ski wear was blue babygrows and all week cries of 'He's a baby !' echoed around the pistes.
Despite the lack of really good snow at the beginning of the week, a lot of fun was had by everyone, especially the beginners, who soonmastered the snow plough and were completely unstoppable, although I'm sure that this had something to do with the fact
that some of the girls had taken rather a fancy to their instructor. Jenny Hall seemed to find that standing up on her skis was quite difficult, and had to collapse into her instructor's arms whenever she could.
Later on in the week we awoke one morning to find that two feet of snow had fallen overnight and after a wild snowball fight we spent the day skiing in deep powder, which was not only great fun but also a lot less painful to fall over in.
Regardless of the many hours spent on the slopes each day, everybody managed to eat the evening meal and catch the ski-lift up to town to experience some of the local night life. However after a few games of pool we were usually exhausted and armed with our 'bum-boards' we took the fast, if not excruciatingly painful way back to the hotelstraight down a vertical slope
- and the obligatory snow fight always ended the evening off nicely.
Travelling in a coach down the M40 on a Friday afternoon may not be everyone's ideaI, but I have come to associate Easter time on this road with a distinct lifting of the spirit. On the last day of term, as school recedes and we travel to Dover, at about Banbury my thoughts turn away from the frantic business of the end of term, and towards the more attractive prospect of days spent on the slopes, the mountain air, the chance to glimpse
massive views, the sense of speed, the opportunity to concentrate on improving technique, and all the other elements which go to make up the whole skiing experience.
This year ourjourney ended at the village of Aschau in Austria's Zillertal, a new destination for the King's School in recent years. It turned out to be a good choice. Our hotel was well placed to allow us to travel to a number of individual resorts throughout the week, according to the weather and the progress of the groups. Thus we started by taking the local ski bus to Hochfiigen to benefit from its wide, open slopes, ideal for the beginners' first descents, and for the rest of us to regain ourbalance. Conditions turned out to be very good for the time of year; there was plenty of snow and its quality made for some enjoyable skiing. On later days we visited the Hochzillertal and Mayrhofen
as our needs changed. Exploring new ski areas gave an added enjoyment, since each has its distinct character, challenges, and cafks, with many offering appealing views.
As ever the groups progressed very well and quickly bonded with their instructors from the Astons Ski School, who included Ross Haines (OV). Compared to previous years we perhaps had fewer really talented skiers, although James Greenfield, as ever, led the way in great style. Lee Chmielewski is also an accomplished skier and used his ability to help the rest in the group along. Others who found themselves in the top group were determined to live up to their billing and the week saw some excellent improvement, notably from Richard Syree, Peter Stanhope and James Scott, all who had to work hard initially to keep up. Even so, mogul fields took their toll at times; a certain 'Ice Man' thought he coped well though. The intermediate groups equally proved their mettle, travelling a fair distance on all the slopes; some among them such as Stephie Crowe will be looking to be promoted to the top group next time. There were also some very promising skiers amongst the beginners' groups, notably Felicity Hill, Oliver Reece and Emily Freeman, to name but a few. MCP helped to keep an eye on things in this area, and cut a distinctive figure on the slopes - then again, you don't find too many Exeter City supporters in the Tirol. Skiing dominates the trip: conversation at meal times invariably revolves around each group's exploits, or aching muscles, and it is always great to see so many people really looking forward to each new day. Throughout the week pupils work towards the British Alpine Ski Awards which place an emphasis on allround skiing, encouraging an awareness of conditions as well as improvement of individual technical points, and so it is hoped that pupils will learn to ski appropriately according to the type of conditions encountered. These are not just oneoff awards however, and the various requirements of the individual awards can be completed at a later date, so that everyone is leftwith a target fortheir next trip to the slopes. It was particularly pleasing to see a certain injustice righted and a long-running source of dispute in the Gill family settled when MRG and UG both ended the week with the three star award this time.
We did take half a day off to visit Innsbruck, which gave our bodies a welcome respite before the last two days. Pupils enjoyed the opportunity to do some present shopping, but all were impressed with the visit to the Olympic ski jump above the town. Those whose leg muscles allowed them to climb to the take-off area could appreciate the view of the town enjoyed by the jumpers flying off the end of the ramp; the railway station below looked perilously close, and the thought of a sudden cross-wind must be an alarming one - for jumper and spectator alike. It certainly puts any black run into perspective.
Before the end of the report I should like to record my special thanks to the staff who accompanied the trip, namely MRG, UG and MCP. They played a vital part in making it a successful one, lifting much of the burden from my shoulders and were always great company, for instructors and students. 'Ausgezeichnet'as they say in Austria.
T.R.S.
The trip began with an inordinately long journey, over twelve hours long. On the remarkably detailed itinerary, it didn't look that long, but it felt considerably longer. Although from Worcester to Gatwick and then from Athens airport to Delphi was almost unbearably uncomfortable, it was at least worth it. For the last half an hour approaching Delphi through the mountains in the cool early morning sun, and looking out across a landscape that had, for a time, been the centre of the known world, one could almost forget the discomfort of the coach. Once we had arrived in Delphi, we all bundled out and made hastily for a bed in the hotel, only to find that two and a half ours later, it was time for breakfast! Suffice it to say that the dining room that morning was not exactly packed.
When Greece comes to mind today, in our modern world, three things are commonly associated with it. One: an endless series of ruins. Two: the rather less savoury holiday spots. Three: a depressing musical. The Greek Trip was none of these things: it was better. Though at first sight, it may seem hard to believe, this trip was honestly one of the finest school trips I have ever been on.
Nevertheless, once we had all regained 1 at least a semblance of consciousness I after the journey, we set out for the an, cient and holy site of the Delphi and its oracle. Perched precariously on the sheer slope of the barren mountain, this site was truly awe-inspiring. It is hard for us today to begin to understand the sort of faith the ancient Greeks must have had to cart heavy rocks up and down this mountain to build monuments and temples when they had enough trouble staying alive. There seemed to be a remarkable amount to see, but it wasn't hard to imagine what it must have been like almost two thousand years ago, while the oracle was still the centre of the Greek world.
Having fully inspected Delphi, a visit augmented by Mrs. Baird's invaluable Greek phrase book, we set off for Olym-
Delphi
pia by coach. Olympia as an ancient site was amazing. Olympia as a modern town was less attractive. The hotel was not exactly classy, as to get to the balcony, we first had to cut away the tree growing into our room while being careful not to touch the wires hanging out of the walls! Nevertheless, an evening of improvised songs and highly entertaining pastimes soon allayed our apprehensions. The next day we visited the site of the original Olympic Games and the sanctuary associated with it. The stadiumitself was shockingly large, but not only that was impressive. Olympia was once the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the statue of the Olympian Zeus by the master-sculptor Pheidias. Although this great treasure is now lost, Pheidias' workshop remains (even though it was converted into a church at one point in its history), an exact copy of the room where his masterpiece was placed. The finds from this workshop were in themselves extraordinary: tiny chisels used to carve the most intricate detail on a vast statue, almost Olympian in its size, let alone subject.
Unfortunately, the site of Olympia was too large and we had to little time to explore fully, and later on that day we departed for Tolon, a thoroughly insignificant, but pleasant coastal town. Tolon was something of ashock however, as the hotel was completely unlike the other hotels as it was nearly faultless!
The next day (the day after the Boat Race) was based around trips to Epidaurus and Nauplion. Epidaurus was a sanctuary of the healing god Asclepios and was similar to Delphi and Olympia in the respect that the major features were temples and related buildings. Impressive though these were (especially the size of the Tholos), the most remembered site is the theatre. This is the best-preserved ancient Greek theatre still standing and even by modern standards, it is VAST! Able to seat 12,000 people comfortably, the acoustics are also fairly amazing. Luckily for us (!), Mr. Stone demonstrated this by removing an offensively loud foreigner from the Orchestra and reciting the school motto in Greek for us: obviously, this was the highlight of the entire trip !
Nauplion was another coastal town, with a warren of winding streets at the base of a gigantic volcanic plug, topped by a sturdy fortress used when this town
was the capital of Greece in the 19th century. While the more energetic of us braved the insanely tiring climb to the fortress, the rest explored the curious and colourful back streets before we returned to Tolon for the afternoon. This afternoon was a welcome break, especially in the heat, and allowed some of our party to become almost obsessed by card games, including the staff (who had to be banned after a while!).
On Wednesday, we visited Mycenae, the city where Agamemnon was king, was killed and passed into history and literature. Unfortunately, this being the 1st April, a certain member of staff decid-
Athens, in front of The Parthenon
ed to play a witty joke, by exploiting our trust! Suffice to say that it was not amusing when it became clear that a stupid dance in the Beehive tombs was not an integral part of Mycenaean culture! Mycenae was nevertheless a magical experience and truly embodied an age when "men were men and women were grateful".
Corinth was our next port of call and was worth the visit. The canal, the main feature of any visit, was almost inconceivably long and deep, but the importance of Corinth was somewhat lost as a result of this emphasis. Standing astride the only land link between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, it rose to become one of the major players in Greek
history because of the wealth it gained through its position and was, incidentally, the home of Jason (but not, I'm afraid, all of the Argonauts as well!).
Arriving in Athens in the evening, we spent the following day exploring the Acropolis and the Agora. Athens was, as a city, far inferior to the other towns that we had visited, as it was congested, heavily polluted and had a universally unpleasant stench. Had it not been for the sites, it would have been wholly unpleasant. The Acropolis, home of the Parthenon and originally a defensive site, impressed me not only because of the size and design of the buildings, but also because of the incredible history that the site had witnessed. The Acropolis had been rebuilt by Pericles, the central figure of 5th century Athenian history, and Pheidias, the Leonardo da Vinci of his day and had seen Macedonians take up the reins of power in the years preceding Alexander the Great's rise. It had been evacuated at several points in time when threatened by attack and had been seized by the Turks during the Greek war of independence. It was in the theatres of this site that the plays of Aristophanes and Sophocles were first performed. This site is history enshrined.
It came as a bit of a shock when, having lunch at the foot of the Acropolis, we were filmed by Greek television, who seemed entranced by a Panama hat in someone's possession.
Once this brief excitement was over, we dropped into the Agora. If the Acropolis is history enshrined, then the Agorais politics embodied. It was the home of Athenian democracy: where the Boule, the Prytany the Archons and Strategoi met to discuss important state business. This was where the great names in Athenian politics carved their place in history: Themistokles, Pericles, Cimon and Alcibiades made their mark.
On the last evening, we rounded everything off with a pleasant, but thoroughly un-Classical (phew!) evening in a Greek cinema watching The Full Monty. In a way, this was representative of the whole trip: it had a quite serious theme to it, but was hilariously funny, entertaining and acclaimed by all that saw it. The trip was truly magnificent: interesting, informal and fun and I'd strongly advise anyone to go if it's run again.
T"E THIRD ANNUAL VISIT of OUT SC~OO~ group to Kleve took place from 24th March to 1st April this year. The
group consisted of eleven from the Upper Remove and two from the Fifth form, and the trip was led by myself and my wife. As usual we flew from Birmingham to Dusseldorf, then travelled by coach for the remaining hour and a quarter up the motorway to Kleve which is situated very near the Dutch border. The joumey lasted about four and a half hours only and before midday our party had arrived and were installed in the homes of their exchange partners.
Such are the basic facts. If only it had started quite so straightforwardly. On the non-arrival of one of our party at Birmingham airport and the need to wait as long as possible before making contingency plans at the airport, the present writer, in a rash moment of desire to recapture the sprinting successes of his College days, pulled a muscle while attempting a 100 metres across part of the airport to rejoin his group which had already boarded the flight, and spent the rest of the holiday nursing his injury. The nameless group member who hadmistaken the day of departure was able to join the group in Kleve later that day and refused to be reminded of the expensive mistake he had made. Otherwise the jour-
0N 27~~MARCH a group of 44 pupils accompanied by DEB, HRT, VJG, Sue Savage, Chris Hand and Carol Brookshaw departed for a concert tour of Tuscany.
After a lengthy but goodjourney across the continent we finally arrived at our base the following day. This was the pretty town of Montecatini Terme, about half an hour's drive from Florence.
The next few days were filled with a wide variety of activities ranging from rehearsals to sightseeing in some of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany, all the while enjoying some unseasonably warm weather. Trips included Lucca, Pisa, Siena, S.Gimigniano and a never-to-be forgotten walking tour of Florence!
ney went very well, but our warmest thanks go to Mrs. Smalley in the Secretary's office for her invaluable assistance in helping to secure another airline ticket for our friend.
I have always been very pleased and indeed surprised that we have been able to recruit usually up to about half, or even more of the small Upper Remove German set of about 20 people to join this exchange which lasts for nine days, involves a stay in a German family and having the exchange partner back at a later date. The welcome from the partner school, the Johanna Sebus Gymnasium, was as always very friendly, and we were entertained by the Mayor of Kleve, Herr Thelosen, who also came to see us off at the end of our stay. During the stay, there was one major day outing by coach to the old city of Munster. Here the highlights were a guided tour of the old city centre and a visit later in the day to the Planetarium. There was a half day outing in which we crossed the Dutch border to Nijmegen, and in Kleve we visited the local radio station, Antenne Niederrhein, and were taken on a tour of some of the sights of the city, including a visit to the Schwanenburg, which is the castle at the heart of the city towering up out of the flat Rhine plain. Of the unofficial activities, one of the most significant was the exceedingly heavy defeat of the German exchange partners in the annual football match, though it must be said that due to there
being three mixed pairings this year, the English group had three more boys than the German party. However, there was no disputing the greater size and skill of the English on this occasion.
We were all very grateful to the German organiser, Frau Steinert-Schmitz, for her care and organisation and to the German host families for all they did to make our party welcome and comfortable.
We have now reached a crossroads with the exchange, which will unfortunately not be taking place in 1999 due to the fact that the Germans' Easter holiday has been shortened by a week and all the timings of the exchange scheme have been thrown into the melting pot. There will be a serious attempt to restart it in 2000, as there is a great deal of goodwill on both sides, and the exchange has been a very valuable and enjoyable experience for the forty or so boys and girls who have taken part in the scheme in the three years so far. I am grateful to everyone who has shown an interest in this venture. In particular I wish to thank my wife, Gill, for her tireless interest and support, not only as the girls' supervisor on the journeys, but for sharing so much of the load with me, especially during school time. Without her, the exchange simply wouldn't have been possible. I am very happy to have been able to create this new exchange, together with our Kleve col- I leagues, and I hope very much for its success in the future.
Obviously music was high on our agenand a chamber orchestra as well as varida, and our talented and versatile group of ous smaller ensembles. We gave three musicians was able to form both a choir concerts during our stay. The first, on , 29th March, took place in the Basilica di S. Lorenzo in Florence, and comprised a purely sacred programme which included Mozart's Missa Brevis in F as well as motets by Lotti.
Philips,
G.N.L.
Pisa Catlzedral
0Bruckner, Tippett, Parry and Villette, Haydn's Missa Sancti Johannis de Deo, the Buxtehude Magnificat, Burgon Nunc Dimittis, and Poulenc's Quatres Prieres de S. Francais d'Assise.
Our second concert, in the Doumo di Montecatini, provided an opportunity for performances of orchestral and chamber music as well as choral works. Lydia Brookes and Tom Mawby performed Bach's Concerto for Oboe and Violin in D minor, Alastair Brookshaw was the soloist in On Wenlock Edge by Vaughan Williams, and there was an impressive performance of Dvorak's American Quartet as well as motets by the choir and the Magnificent Seven.
Our final concert, in the Chiesa di Ognissanti in Florence was a fitting climax to our tour, featuring much music performed in the previous two concerts and allowing an opportunity for the wind ensemble to perform the Suite for Wind Quintet by Denes Agay.
This was a highly successful and enjoyable trip, and we are all very much looking forward to our next concert tour - to Barcelona at Easter in 1999.
closed up and covered most of \\a\ ~ht%rc. the scars, allowing normal life eventually to return. It is largely
\i;r\j~r\[ li~ic.. the cemeteries, ironically now c;~stli~l~~;~ke: places of peace, which serve as tlie the constant reminders of the apol'rhc pallingcarnagewhichtookplace hiici\\ around these sites between 19 14 ;I~:LIII\\ and 1918.
To the east of the modern town ///c, of Ieper, or Ypres, a turn off the (;c,ji.c,irl,i-. /'ilS Menen road will lead the visitor to Sanctuary Wood Cemetery and to the grave of Lieutenant Gilbert Talbot of the Rifle Bri-
NE OF THE ENDURING fascinations of anessentially staticwarwithminimalcontrol gade, killed on 30 July 19 15 in a futile the Great War and the Western over one's own survival amid falling shells counter-attack around the infamous front, fought out in trenches from sentfromanenemy inhabitingwhatseemed Hooge crater. Talbot's headstone is the North Sea to Switzerland, was this another world just yards away produced amongst a number of relatively scattered extraordinary proximity of the warring ideal conditions for the type of neurosis, or graves which remain from an earlier batarmies for over four years. In places, where shell-shock, which became common tlefield cemetery. Heavy shelling and front-lines were literally no more than a amongst the conscripts and volunteers of fighting in the area led it to change hands stone's throw from one another, soldiers of Europe's armies. more than once, while many of the origthe twosides could hear each other carrying For the visitor 80 years later these bat- inal wooden crosses were destroyed, creon the daily business of trench life, could tlefield conditions can still cause confu- ating the apparent disorder in this section shout greetings to one another, and then sion of a different sort. One is ever con- of the cemetery. The regular, regimented could later the same day try to kill each scious that here one might be crossing no- lines of headstones in the main cemetery other. Yet despite the near distance, the man's-land, that in this apparently insig- indicate the area where bodies were enemyintheFirstWorldWarwasavirtually nificant place thousands of men lived a brought from other, smaller battlefield unseen one. What for us is a fascination virtually troglodyte existence; yet one cemeteries after the war to be concentratproduced some devastating effects upon sees the sites from aperspective not shared ed together - and Sanctuary Wood even even the survivors of the conflict. The by the soldiers in the war years in this today is kept open to allow further burials experience of being confined in a trench in often low-lying land, where the earth has of discovered remains.
Pisn V.J.G.
Talbot's grave is not his only memorial however. Several miles away in the town of Poperinge, out of range of German guns, Gilbert Talbot's brother, Rev Neville Talbot, along with an Army padre, 'Tubby' Clayton, helped to establish a Christian refuge for soldiers whose experiences had led them to seek some kind of spiritual solace. Renting the house from a local family who had fled the war, they provided an environment where, for a while, the Army could be left behind. Differences of rank were ignored for example, so that officers shared the same facilities on equal terms with other ranks, but probably were expected to contribute more to the upkeep of the house. A chapel was set up in the attic where an estimated 20,000 received Holy Communion during the course of the war. In honour of his dead brother Neville Talbot called the house, 'Talbot House', which in the signallers' code of the day became abbreviated to Toc H. Such was the popularity of the place that, even when the house was returned after the war, veterans continued to spend the night on the floors, so that the owners eventually gave up trying to live there. The house was soon reopened as part of the Christian-social Toc H movement. It is still open today, and still visited, amazingly enough, by veterans of the war who stayed there between 1915 and 1918, even if now they are pitifully few in number.
Talbot House and Sanctuary Wood Cemetery were just two of the places visited by our party of 39 pupils in the Upper Removes studying History for GCSE on our four-day tour towards the end of the summer term. Once again we stayedin Nieuwpoort on the Belgian coast to allow us a whole day around the Ieper salient and a further day on the Somme. Over the past three years these trips have proved very popular and have allowed
pupils the kind of insight into the enormity of war not necessarily possible in the classroom. Various aspects of the fighting are studied, along with its legacies and the whole issue of remembrance. The trip has also allowed us to explore the impact of the conflict closer to home by looking at some of the memorials to Old Vigornians killedin the fighting, together with our other various pieces of fieldwork and museum visits. Most of all, the trip brings home the lasting impact of war: still the 'lost' of the Ieper salient are remembered in a daily ceremony at the Menen Gate, and the stories told of the exploits of the veterans visiting Talbot House by the guide there certainly help to make this a living subject.
This year, as before, pupils responded well to their experience, and much of the credit for this must go to the staff who accompanied them. PTG and CFR had, as ever, been tireless in their researches beforehand, and along with AJT did much to keep pupils thinking as they toured the sites. Another welcome element this year was RJD's contribution from the English Department, and his sessions on some samples of the war's literature, which we were able to look at in the field, worked very well. At the end of the trip we could answer that we were indeed at Ieper, at Diksmuide, and on the Somme; ourexperience of those places can still only allow us to imagine the torment of those who had to endure them under entirely different conditions, but in doing so we at least were able to remind ourselves of the value of our peaceful normality.
Tuesday 30th June
Today we undertook the longest foreign journey on this trip. We left at nine thirty and headed off towards the Somme sector. We arrived late in the morning in time to visit the La Boisselle crater and the Thiepval memorial before lunch. The crater was huge and it took us a whole ten minutes to walk right the way round the crater that had been blown by a mine on the first day of the Somme. It was very difficult to imagine the power taken to create such a scar on the landscape.
The Thiepval memorial was a huge brown and white edifice on which were the names of 73,357 missing British soldiers who disappeared on the Somme T.R.S. between 1915 and 19 17.
One of the students to go on the Battlefields trip was Richard Neal. The following is an extract from his diary of events:
Monday 29th June
Our next stop was made especially for me, and only a few curious people joined me as I got off the coach into the pouring rain to look for the grave of Private Charles Langdon of the New Zealand Wellington Regiment, who died on the 15th September 1916. He was the grandson of my great great great grandfather on my father's side. It was a strange feeling to look at his grave in amongst so many others and to realise that he was a distant relation. I took a few photographs but unfortunately the film in my camera ran out and so we got back on the coach and headed back to Ypres whilst the weather cleared
During the day we saw many interest-
ing and evocative sights such as the Tree of Death and the concentration graves on the battlefields. After having toured the site we got back on the bus and drove a couple of miles down the road to Delville Wood. Here we got out into a fine wet mist and entered a museum housed in a large pentagonal building. The emphasis here I felt was more on the number of losses that were suffered than the fact that we had won the war.
Wednesday 1st July
Looking backover the last few days, I still feel the sense of awe as I come to realise the scale and enormity of the losses to both sides during the First World War. When I consider that many of those who were killed were only a few years older than I am now and had their whole lives in front of them, the impact is even greater. I know that I shall always reUP.
member the profound effect that those sights have had on me.
First Worlrl War poetry study
THISWAS ALWAYS going to be an awkward season. It is never easy to follow on from an outstandingly successful team, and the 1997 King's First XV found it hard going. A number of boys with first team experience from the previous year were unable to assume successfully the mantle of senior players and as a result the team struggled when playing against mature sides. Another difficulty facing this team was that the circuit was extremely strong, and unfortunately most of the hardest matches were away from home. The strength of some of our opponents was partly due to their inclusion of a number of sports scholars; the presence of three or four in a team can result in a staggering transformation; this was most noticeable in the match against Bromsgrove.
The fitness levels of a number of players at the beginning of September were inadequate,whilst others, who had trained hard in the summer,unfortunately returned from a Turkish holiday with various stomach related ailments, many of which did not clear up for a number of weeks. As a result the first few matches saw King's fielding a team whose physical fitness ranged from the outstanding to the mediocre It was encouraging to see some improvement in this area when the players returned for this year's Rugby Camp, but there are still too many boys who shirk their responsibilities in this area.
The strength of the side lay in its forwards, and as their stamina improved, and the pitches became heavier they became increasingly influential. David Woodcock had an excellent season; he was a whole-hearted player and one of the most mobile props to have played for King's. He fully deserved to win the Surman
Cup for services to rugby at King's. The Preston Shield for the Most ImprovedPlayerwent to the hooker Max Wright. Early in the term Max's throwing in was erratic but through sheer hard work he became a reliable performer in this area, whilst his contribution around the field was most impressive. Jake Brazierwas always down early fortraining - I suspect he thought that Diploma was optional in the Upper Sixth. Jake
sis, and proved so capable that he superceded the more established performers when they returned to the fray. Charles Daniell was our usual front of the line jumper and he played steadily and hopefully gained a great deal of valuable experience for this season. Nick Jones was badly hit by injury and illness and only showed his 1996 form in short bursts, whilst Oliver Doherty was selected on a number of occasions and used his size to good effect at close quarters. Neither looked so comfortable against sides which moved the ball wide and our lack of pace in the back five of the pack was exposed on a number of occasions. Ed
King Henry VIII, Coventry (a) L 5 - 19
Warwick (h) L 17-32
Cheltenham (a) L 7 -50
Solihull (a) W 18- 5
Queen Mary's, Walsall (h) W 48 - 3
K.E.S. Birmingham (a) D 5 - 5
Christ College, Brecon (h) L 14 -20
St. Andrew's, Dublin (a) L 11 -20
Dublin High School (a) W 15- 7
K.E.S. Camphill (a) W 25-21
Monmouth (h) L 21-25
Hereford Cathedral School(a) W 17 - 8
Bromsgrove (h) L 10-27
K.E.S. Aston (h) W 37 - 0
Bristol G.S. (h) W 12- 5
R.G.S. Worcester (a) L 7-17
and Dave Woodcock found that most of their opposing props had a considerable weight advantage, but as a front-row their technique steadily improved, and by the end of the season they were more than a match for most teams. Richard Allen featured briefly in the front three but then transferred to the backs, playing a couple of games for the First XV on the wing, not a path trodden by many props.
Alex Brittain, although convinced he was a back-rowplayer, looked more at home in the second row, where he quickly established himself as our most impressive support player in the line-out. Surprisingly the jumper he was helping was Charlie Foulkeswho wasdrafted into this role against Warwick because of an injury cri-
and it was good to see both of them showing a real willingness to learn and a genuine desire to improve.
The captain Dan Cullen had a brief flirtation with the scrumhalf position but following Richard Major's unfortunate collar-bone injury at Cheltenham, he had totakeoverthe number 10 shirt, whilst Jon Turner had to move from the pack to scrum-half. Jon is a very combative player and his tackling and ball winning was excellent. His speed of pass was less impressive and he also found back row defences had learntto watch out for his dummy. This cut down his try-scoring rate but he made an excellent contribution to rugby at King's and was always prepared to play out of position for the good of the team.
As a Lower Sixth captain Dan found the early weeks hard but once he had settled at fly-half his confidence increased and his leadership skills gradually developed. He is a naturally elusive runner and a strong tackler, the latter being an essential prerequisite of this position in the modern game. He worked hard to improve his pace, with impressive results, and he has the ability to play rugby at a high level once he leaves school.
Tandy was the quickest player in this unit, and he produced some fine cameo performances without ever having the fitness to last at full pace for seventy minutes. He and Daniell were the only Lower Sixth players in the pack
Mark Forrester was the pick of the three-quarters. His defence was solid apart from an early season lapse against Warwick; his running skills were good and his handling ability,although not the strongest part of his game was generally sound. He and Richard Lewis were first class squad
Pre-season training
members; always working hard in training and contributing positively in every aspect of First XV rugby. On the field Richard was not quite as effective as he had been the previous season but he did produce the most unforgettable moment of the year, when having been put clean through against Brecon, he decided, quite inexplicably, to somersault his way to the line rather then running, He reached the line; the ball did not.
Dan Kendrick was undoubtedly the bravest member of thesquad. He comfortablywon the prize for winning the most tackle counts; no mean feat considering he was the lightest player in the team. As an attacking force he was less effective but his outstanding defence secured his place in the team ahead of JamesTustin and Richard Welsh. Their turn will doubtless come in the 1998 season. Steven Freeman on his day could produce match-winningperformances, most noticeably against Dublin High School, but he struggled with illness which affected both his Dace and his
thing to do with this, although Keys' Society evenings tend to be a little quieter than the local derby match.
The greatest weakness of the team was its inability to turn pressure into points. The season started with King's being camped on the Coventry line, spurning chance after chance and then falling to two late sucker punches from the England scrum-half. The season ended against R.G.S with King's pounding the home team's line, but failing to take scoring chances. In schoolboy and senior rugby the most valuable player is the one who can translate territorial dominance into points on the scoreboard. At King's during the time I have been involved with the First XV the key men in this respect have been players such as Richard Tomlinson, Duncan Hughes, Murray Lythgo, Matt Dobbins, Tom Davies, Kaizen Matsumoto and Leigh Hinton. This team needed just one player of this ilk to turn it from a respectable school first XV into avery good one.
petitions. He did return briefly for Rosslyn Park but was no-
hands and adequate pace. Mark Forrester played very where near full fitness and did not last the day. With the other genuinely fast back, Richard steadily; he made some nice breaks and was reliable in defence. Unfortunately his knee Major, being injured for the whole season we were thus deprived of ourtwo main finish-
ers, and this proved crucial in matches against the stronger schools.
At the Marches and at Solihull we won our qualifying groups in convincing style but fell in the knock-out stages. Our Sevens skills were good, the result of hours of practice,
injury of three years ago has affected his sprinting speed and on numerous occasions he was hauled down just before the line by covering defenders. Richard Welsh produced his best form at Solihull. He has a nice outside
break but his lack of weight and strength told against him when we played some of the bigger and more experienced sides.
however the team lacked a consistent ball-winner and struggled against sides with a My thanks to all the other players who supported the big and aggressive pack. This proved our undoing at Rosslyn Park where after playing training and on occasion played for the team: Richard Allen, Alex Brittain, James Tustin, Andrew Lonbay and Chris Horn were the chief re-
fine rugby to win the first three matches of our group we went down to Rugby who, unlike Winston Churchill, found the "soft underbelly." This defeat serves but everyone who came down to the practice sessions helped contribute to the was made all the more frustrating by the fact that if we had won our group we would side.
have had a really excellent chance of reaching the semifinals.
IT CANNOT BE DENIED that this was a disappointing season in terms of a playing record. In fact, this was the first losing
Dan Cullen was the leading try-scorer; at times he failed to utilise overlaps but his low centre of gravity and natural season for at least ten years. Rather more worrying was the way in which the team suffered a number of heavy defeats. Why? In truth, for the swerve made him a difficult man to put down. Steven Freeman was the most improved sevens player: he scored two fine tries against Rugby at Rosslyn Park and his defensive skills improved steadily throughout the season. In the most part, we were just not quite good enough. There were defensive frailties, particularly in the backs both individually and collectively, a lack of penetration in attack and no forwards Richard Paul made a good impression,and should be a real force in the next two single player who could turn a game with aflash of brilliance. The team was heavily dependent on the tackling of Rupert Walsh until hiselevation to the
seasons. He timed a pass well and made some sound tackles against much older and bigger opponents. David Woodcock and Max Wright confidence.
Ceredig Cattanach-Chell added a touch of culture and style to the team. As a fullback he was a deceptively strong runner; his defence picked up but his kicking was limited. Interestingly he played as well as anybody against the powerful Royal Grammar School team, and coped with some offensive barracking quite admirably. The fact that as a musician he is used to performing in front of an audience may well have had somefirst team and latterly on Gareth Young who had a particularly good second half of the were ever present, at competitions and at training. Neither were natural sevens players
THESEASON STARTED WELL at Brecon, where forthe first time for many years it was not actually raining. King'squalified in second place from a tough group, beatingMarlboroughand Bedford, and then defeated Sherborne comfortably in the first round of the knock-out. We then narrowly went down to King's Bruton in athrilling quarter-final, but more significantly lost ourUflyer"Richard Lewis forthe rest of the Sevens comseason. Oliver Doherty also led by example as captain in the last half dozen games. but both gave their all and must be commended for their whole-hearted contribution to rugby at King's.
able in the three man scrums. Next year when he will be that much stronger he should be a key player as he has good
Of course, it wasn't entirely 'doom and gloom'. There were good moments, spells andvictories. The match against Ed Tandy struggled to come to terms with the game, mainly because he was uncomfortBromsgrove springs to mind when our spirit and commitment, for a twenty minute period, halted and put in to retreat stronger opposition. Our final match against WRGS
P.T.G.
also saw a much improved performance. The underlying reason here was that the side selected was stronger than any that had taken to the field in earlier matches. As usual over forty players represented the Seconds at various times and the strength of the available players and that of the opposition was inevitably the determining factor in whether the team was perceived to play badly or well.
Where the team did excel was in its behaviour on and off the field. My perception is that the side accepted both defeat and victory with good grace and behaved in a polite and courteous manner when representing the School as members of the Rugby Club.
D.T.N.
who led the team with comrnitment and thoroughly deserved his promotion to the second team during the latter half of the season. Charlie Evans proved the worth of a quality kicker at this level and David Rankin invariably troubled opposition props with his uncompromising play. Tom Clarke proved that rugby is a game for intellectuals whilst Chris Dodsontried to disprove the same! Several performances by members of the Lower Sixth suggest that there could be a strong nucleus for next season.
R.P.M.
UNDER XV
~RDXV
THE~RDXV)SSEASON Was made up of three distinct parts; the games before half term, those after and the local derby at WRGS. The team made afine start to the season, attired in a new set of jerseys and managing to record a hard fought victory against Warwick by 15 points to 14. Buoyed with confidence the only blemish up until the half term break came against Cheltenham who are traditionally strong opponents. We struggled in all areas against a well drilled team and went down to a heavy defeat which tested the character of all concerned.
The second half of the term began badly as the relatively settled team was broken up by injuries and also by seeing players go up to the Second XV to cover for absentees there.The result of this was that all four fixtures immediately precedingthe end of season fixture at the Grammar School were lost. This hardly augured well and on the day it looked as if the fixture might be lost to the elements as a deep frost took a firm hold at Flagge Meadow. Undaunted, the team raised their game and watched by one of the largest crowds ever seen at this level, ran out 15-5 victors. Thanks go to Robert Poole
ALTHOUGH THE PLAYING record of won 3, lost 7, does not make great reading, the team did make significant improvements during the season. This is best highlighted by the fact that the three wins came in the last four games, culminating in an excellent victory against WRGS. Throughout the term we found that we were always smaller than the opposition, and though this did cause us problems early on, especially against Solihull and KES Birmingham, as our tackling and organisation developed, size became less of an obstacle. One of the key characteristics of the side was its determination, and this was consistently displayed by the side's captain, Richard Paul. An aggressive Number8, he led from the front, and was always in the action.
The forwards progressed well technically during theseason. They rarely outweighed theiropponents, but in the tight they developed into a very cohesive unit. We were blessed with a number of props, but the regular front row of Alexander Higgs, David Hall and Edward Smith were often dominant, laying a very solid base from which we could develop our game. The lineout also proved to be a strength of the side. Alex Kelly was easy to lift, and as his ability to take clean ball under pressure improved, so did the quality of possession that our backs received. The backrow was the backbone of the team, with
Fraser Young and Alexander Shuter always appearing where the opposition least wanted them.
The backswerecertainly not starved of ball, but unfortunately they did not always use it to best effect. This was not helped by afive week injury to Steven Ott, the side's big- kicking fly half. Although Rob Fardon filled the position with some determination,the backs lost their way on a number of occasions. One of the strengths of the side was its wingers, with both Ben Hickling and Christopher Massey being reliable in the tackle, as well as being very strong runners.
At under l6 level success is not everything. One of the main functions of this age group is to try and prepare the boys for the sizeable step up to 1st XV standard. Within the side there were a number of boys who will be close to that level next season, particularly Richard Paul, Alex Higgs and Alex Shuter. The team was very enjoyable to work with, always giving its best, which is all one can ask for.
A.A.D.G.
THE SEASON STARTED with the match against Queen Mary's Walsall being cancelled This was a game that could realistically have been won and could have boosted the confidence of a team that did not have a great deal. The two subsequent narrow defeats against King Henry's Coven-
try (31-36) and Warwick(l724) would have been reversed and I would not have to be sitting here now thinking how to explain what on paper is a desperately poor record
The pool of players available for selectionwas very small and so any injury meant that players who would rather be doing something else were drafted in and showed little enthusiasm This also meant that regular players knew that their place was never under threat and they were under no pressure to perform well every week. The quality of defence was very poor and even good players were often inconsistent in their tackling . The ball winning capabilities of the forwards was not good partly due to lack of size but also due to poor technique and little courage. The backs had some ability but the ball that they had to play with was so often slowly delivered that they rarely had the opportunity to thrive
It may seem extraordinary that the squad managed to win a sevens tournament ( North Midlands Sevens) and reach the final of another (King's School). There are several reasons for this. Firstly there were a number of really quite capable players with good 1st XV potential in the year but not enough to make up a fifteen. Secondly three Under 14 players were drafted into the Sevens squad plus Nick Dale-Lace had arrived at the school The other members of the Sevens squad were
Under 16 XV v Victoria State
Josh Hand , Tom Colley , Nigel Blackshaw, Louis Ludlow, Steve Daly, Duncan Griffiths, Andrew Freeman, Stewart Copson, James Ray , Jamie Coleman, Luke Amphlett and Adam Papaphilippopoulos. There is some hope for a number of these players who will go on to represent the senior teams and be more successful For those who have the dedication and character to stick it out to senior level, winning games will then be a much more satisfying experience after receiving such a battering year after year. A final word must go to Josh Hand who led the team with extraordinary enthusiasm and dedicationthroughoutthe year
M.J.R.
PLAYED 13 WON 13 POINTS FOR 576 POINTS AGAINST 81 AFTERMANY YEARS of coaching U14 teams at King's it was a great pleasure to work with such a talented and committed squad of players. In nearly all the fixtures the unbeaten A team and the B team, which only lost one match against Monmouth, played free, open rugby that was never matched by opponents who were often physically bigger and stronger. An average score of over 44 points per game reflects the overall strength and skill of the A team squad and the speed and potential of an outstanding three quarter line in particular. Of many highlights in this memorable season, the away victory over an hitherto unbeaten Monmouthteam and the heavy defeats of Cheltenham College (41 - 7), Warwick (67 -7), Bristol Grammar (520) and W.R.G.S. (45 - 0) were particularly satisfying.
The relatively small pack of forwards concentratedon supplying quick ball for the backs and the back row of Richard Hallett, William Walker and Luke Narraway developed into an impressive attacking unit. Neil Lonergan, a brave and tenacious hooker, and Scott Rennie are also worthy of mention. In the backs Richard
Syree and Jamie Gwynne forged an effective partnership at half back and Paul Hallett, Michael Whear, Aaron Sagar and Joe Robinson, who also proved to be a reliable goal kicker, produced some excellent running rugby.
It is perhaps invidious to highlight one player in a team that owed its success to the efforts and contributions of all those who played for the A team, but special mention must go to Nicholas Major, so often an inspirational captain, whose outstanding attacking and defensive play turned the few close games in our favour.
A squad of 10 players went on to win two sevens competitions at Solihull and Warwick to crown an unbeaten season in all matches.
THE'A' SIDE CAME to us with a mixed record from the previous year and we were keen to see if improvements could be made. One or two new talents were unearthed, such as Myles McKinnon, whose brave tackling made asignificant difference to our overall defence on many occasions.
The three quarters provided much of the attackingthrust of the team and usually comprised Oliver Mathew who orchestrated the backs, Osman Fiaz , who developed into a solid centre with good handling skills and Richard Joyce, a fast and elusive runner with the ball. The wingers were the aforementioned McKinnon together with Ben Blackshaw who was always liable to produce a try from nothing. James Greenfield played at scrumhalf and his courageous play was always an example to much bigger boys. Joseph Timson often played full-back and his positional play improved during the season. He ran with the ball out of defence quite well and should make further progress next year.
Our forwards struggled manfully all season to cope with other much bigger sides and they turned in some ex-
cellent performances, although it must be said that they were more impressive when they had possession rather than when they were required to tackle. The front row of Leo Cox, Robert Colquhoun and Andrew Wright was solid in the tight but can become more effective in the loose. Robert Colquhoun in particularwas sometimesvery aggressive and particularly difficult to stop from close range. PeterWilby led the pack well from his number 8 berth and he had an excellent season. Alex Fisher played well in possession and James Annis was often first to the breakdown in loose play and did well to set things up for the more attacking players. Alex Kolodotschko, Edward Pearce and Graham Price shared the positions in the second row and all three tried hard.
Although the team only recorded two wins (against King Henry's Coventry and King's Macclesfield), I feel that they will probably be an excellent team higher up the school because they are used to facing more powerful opposition which will stand them in good stead when they grow a little. They are perhaps two or three players short of being a very good team, and even though they suffered heavy losses against teams such as Warwickand Bristol G.S. they never hung their heads and always came fighting back. The team reserved their finest performance forthe final match of the season against R.G.S. Worcester and lost narrowly by 19-12.
The 'B' team played nine games and although they failed to record a victory they were generally pitted against schools selecting teams from many more boys. They, too, can justifiably be proud of their commitment and dedication without tangible reward. In particular Jamie Morris, Michael Chaffey and Thomas Squire looked likely to score and SebastianWoodward, Edward Scott, Luke Pizzey and Daniel Jones were the pick of the forwards.
J.L.O.1M.R.G.
UNDER12 XV
AN 'A' TEAM PLAYING record of won 9 lost 4 is a particularly impressive one since the majority of the schools on our fixture list these days have twice as many boys from whom to choose. Two of the defeats, at the hands of WRGS and Oldswinford, were disappointing in that the team played poorly and our players knew that we were the better side and should have won. K.E.S.
B.G.
Birmingham and Bristol G.S.were bigger and quicker and deserved their victories.
The nine wins owed much to an aggressive set of forW rds with good ball-winning S ills and a three quarter line iW ich often sparkled in its handling, running and support play. Hefty points totals were amassed against King Edward's Aston, King Henry's Coventry, Bishop's Hereford, Monmouth, Hereford Cathedral and Chantry H.S. and schools of the rugby-playing calibre of Warwick, King's
Macclesfield and Solihull were eventually dispensed with comfortably.
The pick of the forwards were Guy Potter, Tom Cullen (who played in most positions during the season), and the captain Charlie JeffersonLoveday. Due to an injury to David White, Charlie had to play prop for most of the second half of the season and although he clearly hated it there he nevertheless carried on uncomplainingly. Josh Newman, although a prop,
usually popped up on the wing at some stage in every gamewhat mobility! - and it was in this position that he scored an important try against Solihull. Tom Hand, Tim MacKenzie, Tom Pickrell and Tom Johnson all put in consistent performances too.
Simon Potter and Sam Cullen were an elusive and talented pairing in the centre, both contributing freely to the team's try count. James Davis, covering and supporting everywhere, and Stewart
Chandler with his deceptive pace were regulars in the backs, along with Henry Fellows, a well balanced runner. Huw Dimond, Cameron Baldry, William Woodhouse and Matthew Johnson also played at times and never let the side down.
The 'B' XV only won one game but the boys who represented this team are to be commended on their commitment to practices and matches. Indeed the whole squad deserves credit for its attitude.
D.P.I.1R.J.D.
SOCCER
~ST
IT SEEMS TO BE ALMOST a convention to begin a report on 1st XI football at King's by expressing feelings of both disappointment with the season's results and unqualified hope for the year to come. There would appearto be little point in flying in the face of convention this year. Nevertheless, this season has seen some excellent footballers grace the 'cabbage patch', and it would be a great shame to allow their efforts to go unacknowledged.
It is strange to talkof a 'youth policy' at work in a school sports team, but this was very much in evidence this year at first team level. In previous years the first team had been comprised almost exclusively of boys from the Lower and Upper Sixth years, but some outstanding individuals from the Fifth year soon forced themselves into the reckoning. Toby Walker, terrible as a battleship, strong as a cliffface, made an immediate impact at centre-back. Andrew Lee, a player of skill, finesse and quite bristling aggression, will no doubt grow into a superb football player. Robert Jansen slotted into the right back position superbly and he too has all the makings of an excellent footballer.
The elder statesmen also performed well. Dan Kendrick rarely had a bad game, James Dobbins paired up very successfully at the back alongside Toby Walker and James Keegan demonstrated a greater degree of pugnacity in midfield than had been seen in him in previous seasons. He looked a very competent player, particularly in the drawn match against Handsworth Grammar School, a team who had played in excess of thirty games before our fixture.
In the Royal Grammar School tie, wecame up against one of the best school football sides I have ever seen and within fifteen minutes of the start, we were three goals down. Nevertheless, we continued to play some attractive football and restricted our opponents to one goal in the second half. The Grammar School ran out clear winners, but very few school teams would have been able to match them.
Although we have continued to compete with local schools, there remains a sense of eccentric amateurism about the sport within King's, of the football term representing nothing more than an unchallenging break from the rigours of rugby and cricket. However, if all the players are availablefor all the fixtures, I feel that the forthcoming season could be asuccessful and, for once, rewarding experience for all involved.
M.J.P.
XI
THIS RELATIVELY short season was not the most successful in terms of results. The overall performances were more 'Nationwide'than Premier league, but to carry on with this analogy, there were players who could perhaps have coped in the top division. Thomas Colley, our'numberone', was potentially the best all-round player in the side, having the necessary ability but not always the right attitude, particularly in training. There would perhaps be room for robust and athletic players like Lee Chmielewski, Adam Papaphilippopoulos, Andrew Freeman and Nigel Blackshaw, each of whom performed well whilst showing slightly different strengths and weaknesses. In contrast, Christopher Husband and Nicholas Cole rather lacked this athleticism but still showed a degree of skill and knowledge of the game. Chris, in particular, was a natural defender who read
the game well and who in the end was arguably our player of the season. Up front, Stewart Copson rather flattered to deceive but was at least a footballer with local league experience. William Ward, did show himself to be a competent striker and, to use the original analogy for the last time, would have attracted scouts from the top level, albeit from the 'Dons' and the like ratherthan the top six. His main weakness was his lack of pace, particularly over the first, vital few yards. Other regulars were Luke Amphlett and Stephen Daly who were sporting and cohesive influences in a side and squad that was not always noted for these commendable attributes.
D.T.N.
THIS WAS A HIGHLY successful season which included six wins, one draw and no defeats. Despite a close 3-2 scoreline our victory against W.R.G.S. was never really in
Dan Watts and Tom Schwalbe on port tack in 'Alouette: kindly donated by past-captain Guy Beckett and family -
doubt (their second goal coming late in injury time). The performance of the season came at Handsworth Grammar School. As a result of late illness we arrived with only ten players and soon went 2 - 0 down in heavy conditions. A strong fightback, however, including a hat-trick from lead-
ing scorer Joseph Robinson gave King's a superb 4 - 3 victory. Player of the season was the captain Philip Burdon who was always a major influence in midfield. Ashley Leyton proved to be a rugged full back and William Hardy soon became a regular in midfield.
M.C.P.
At this level the main aim is to improve the basic skills of our players through a structured programme of coaching. This year's under 13 players proved to be quite a talented bunch who worked hard throughout the term in practices and coaching sessions. They have an obvious enthusiasm forthe
game that I hope will grow as their experience widens in the years to come. Oliver Mathew captained the side to two wins and one defeat in the three games played at this level. I feel sure that there are many fine performances to come from this group of young players and I lookfonnrard to watching some of them.
J.T.W.
Once again the Boat Club has continued to flourish and the busy, yet friendly and relaxed atmosphere of the never-empty boathouse has encouraged yet another strong and enthusiastic membership from all levels of the School. It seems that numbers are higher than ever before, with girls' rowing securely established alongside the boys; and indeed it is the girls who have given the Club its most notableachievement of the year.
The very fact that girls and boys are given equal opportunities is one of the defining principlesof the club, although it has to be said that competition in the different sexes makes different demands. Although to some extent we regard ourselves as a well-established rowing school, on the boys' side we can not claim the same kind of extensive facilities enjoyed by schools such as Shrewsburyand Cheltenham College, which permit a far larger number of young rowers to work their way through in theirclubs. Oursenior squad tends therefore to be drawn from a much smaller pool, and since all school rowing makes very heavy demands on pupils, it is practi-
cally impossible to overcome this disadvantage merely by extracommitment,to say nothing of the impact that might have on other aspects of our pupils' education. Meanwhile we face very strong competition from schools who have less tradition, but who have used the opportunity of the Amateur Rowing Association's encouragement of sculling to focus on a smaller number of pupils, but coaching them for three terms of the year; indeed some have even begun to teach the sport to those in the equivalent of our Upper Fourth year, allowing them to dominate national competition at least in the J14and J15age groups in quadruple sculls. In such an environment our boys often face a tough time.
The number of schools taking girls' rowing seriously is considerably smaller than for boys although there are certainly several who do; it is very
much to the credit of our club that we are emerging as genuine rivals for the best in this area, at a time when standards are being pushed up here too. Thus we have managed to build on our previous successes at national level to finish the season with thegirls' 1st Vlll as National Champions, and having gone on to represent England in the Home Countries' Regatta. Such an achievement helpsto underline that we are doing very well with the facilities availableto us, especially asa number of our boats have to serve the training requirements of both boys' and girls' crews, and shows that King's is indeed capable of producing crews which are competing in some of the sport's highest levels.
Success at the top, however, depends upon the base established lower down the club, and 1998 was a year of
some frustration for our new Lower Removes. Despite a winter with more than its fair share of high winds and swollen waters, making the business of learning to scull rather difficult, the new entrants to the club persisted, with the support of Mrs Griffiths and Mr Sharp. Amid the disruption, however, it is clear that there are some promising individuals amongst this group who will be a great asset to the Club in future years. It was a shame that a further soggy summer meant that their regatta season gave them only very limited experience of competition, but they should progress well next year.
The Upper Remove started the year with just enough boys to crew a quadruple scull, coached and encouraged by Mr Hines. After Christmas, however, they were joined by four others who learned to row to form a larger squad. The
The Girls 1"' Vlll
Back Ito r: AIG, Sarah Lonbay, Kate Hickson, Rose Panter, Charlotte Ghaye, Lauren Lawson-Pratt. Front: Zoe Witowski, Seb Pearce (cox), Claire Gilbert.
'quad' went on to compete in the Schools' Head of the River Race on the Tideway, buttheir relative lackof experience told at this level. At the beginning of the Summer Term the four and the quad joined forces to make a spirited VIII, racing at Tewkesbury Invitation Regatta, and showing a great deal of fight and determination, if not winning any medals.
A new intake of Lower Sixth novice girls soon established a strong crew identity. They certainly setthe fashion trends in the boathouse with their rugby shirts, high pony-tails and their mobile phones. It took a while for their style on the water to match that on the dry land, but they finished eighth out of twelve crews at the Schools' Head, and gained some good experience at Ironbridge and Avon County Schools regattas. Mrs le Marchand's coaching was clearly doing them some good though, and at Tewkesbury lnvitation Regatta they achieved their best result of the season, when in coming second they managed to defeat our own girls' 2nd VIII.
The girls' 2nd Vlll who were coached very admirably by Jo Atkinson supported the girls' 1st VIII by rowing in any spare seats when necessary and by pushing them hard in land training. Valuable as this was it did make training as a separate crew more difficult. The highlights of their season were good results at the Schools'
Head and a third place at Avon County Schools' Regatta.
The senior squad boys had a very promising start to the season with several convincing 'head' wins, notably in a coxed four at Wallingford. However, after Christmas things tookaturn forthe worse. There was a disappointing result in the Schools' Head, and after this it was decided that the best course of action was to split up into fours. Owing to A level modules, one of the fours fell by the wayside. The remaining four raced at Avon County Schools' Regatta and just missed out on the medals. Although this left them with high hopes for the National Schools' Regatta, they just failed to qualify for the final. However,they did not disgrace themselves when they raced in the qualifying rounds at Henley, where their time was better than a number of club and university crews. Although one of the lightest crews in the competition, it was evident that technically their progress had been impressive, and thanks forthat areowedtotheir coach, Paul Sterkx.
The girls' senior squad on theother hand weighed in with the Club's outstanding performances of the year. Their success started in the winter. A number of head of the river races were entered, and several very good results were also produced. Thus a good base was set for the rest of the year. One of the most pleas-
ing and unexpected results was on the Tideway in the Schools' Head of the River Race where the crew achieved an excellent second place, the best result that King's has ever had at this event.
With training broken during Easterwhenseveral members of the squad were in the Himalayas (doing altitude training?) some boat-speedwas lost. As a result this led to the only disappointment of the season at Avon County Schools' Regatta where the crewwere just defeated by Canford. After a couple of smaller, but successful regattas the girlsfaced their biggest challenge yet, the National Schools' Regatta at Holme Pierrepoint, Nottingham. After progressing to the final, a gripping race left us just out of the medals in fourth place. The next major event was Henley Ladies' Regatta. Here, drawn against one of the favourites amongst English school crews in Kingston Grammar School, the 1st Vlll demonstratedtheirstrength by pushing their opponents hard down the course; an immense effort at the end however still left them trailing by a only a few feet as they crossed the finishing line.
After some local regattas in the second half of term, where successes were more easily gained, after the end of term came the highlight of the season at the National Championships, held in far-away Strathclyde. Here the girls
21, Won 10, Drawn 8, Lost 3, make very pleasant reading and the boys deserve to be proud of what they achieved.
raced in the Vlll and also entered a crew for the coxless fours. The four came a marvellous third, winning a bronze medal. The real praise has to go to the entire Vlll however, which saw off all opposition to claim the gold medal, and the right to call themselves 'Champions of Great Britain'. On the strength of this superb achievement the girls were asked if they would represent England in the Home Countries' International Regatta, and of course they accepted, even though this meant travelling back to Strathclyde the following week. Here they proudly represented England, but in a frustrating race came second to the Scottish crew. Perhaps the most stressed member of the Club during all this was the girls' 1st Vlll coach, Mr Guest.
The season underlines the strong feeling that rowing still has a bright future at King's, but the key to this is attracting new members from the Lower Removes to the Sixth Form. Coaching and the facilities available are very good, and provided commitment is made then the rewards will come in time.
N.B. All OVs are welcome to join the school Boat Club for the scratch regatta on Sunday July 1 I th. This will be followed by the Boat Club Dinner at The Diglis Hotel. Anybody interested should contact AIG. KATEHICKSON AND GERARDLUDLOW
in the time allocation. This led This proved to be both a to a number of excitinq finishsuccessful and highly satisfying season. Many of my complaints as to how we had played our cricket in 1997were corrected, making the side very difficult to beat despite playing very attacking cricket. Rarely were we to be seen without slips and close catchers, and on the few occasions when we batted first not once did we continue past half way
The batting looked strong on paper, but with Edward Oliver being unable to play for the vast majority of the sea-
es, particularly against Warwick, who having been set 194 to win ended 5 runs short with just 2 wickets remaining. In the match against the Grammar School we bowled and fielded superbly to dismiss them for 132. Despite the loss of two early wickets we reached our target before tea for a tremendous victory. The eventual statistics of Played
son, the captain Dan Cullen was left with the responsibility of scoring heavily. I said in my report last year that Dan had not scored enough runs and that he should aim for 1000 runs this season. This he did, with his final aggregateof 1 165
batsmen to dig DanCullena~erhisinningsof in.NickDale140 not out against Rendcomb Lace scored 263 runs at number 7, and Adam Phillips often made useful contributions.
runseasily surpassing the previous total scored by Ed Oliver. It is very rare for a schoolboy to score so many runs, especially in the Lower Sixth. Dan bats with a lot of style, particularly through the leg side, and his ability to take attacks apart was demonstrated on a number of occasions, most memorably against Rendcomb when he scored 140 not out of a victory target of 182. The middle order rarely provided firm support, and it was regularly left to the later
Our pol~cyof
"if they are good enough they are old enough," was reflected in the fact that five under 14s represented the 1st XI.
Joseph Robinson opened the batting for most of the season, making a number of useful contributions, most notably his unbeaten fifty
strong MCC side. He is a good player of quick bowling, but his inexperience against spin bowling regularly proved to be his downfall. Nicholas Major batted at number 3 and also kept wicket in the Saturday fixtures. He is a very attacking player who I expect to score heavily next year. It will be very interesting to see whether, over the next fouryears, Nick manages to overtake the number of runs that Dan Cullen will have eventually amassed for the 1st XI.
The fast bowling responsibilities lay squarely on the shoulders of Adam Phillips. He responded to these demands with unlimited energy
and dedication to the team's cause. In all he bowled 275 overs, taking a school record 48 wickets. Probably his best performance came against Victoria College against whom he took 6 - 29, but it is very difficult to pick out just a single effort from so many high-class spells. At the other end Robert Seeley, a young left arm seam-
such a crucial part of the present day game.
The season was an immensely enjoyable one, not simply because it was so successful. The boys were always fun to work with. They listened to advice and tried very hard to put it into practice. I would like to thank them for their efforts, as well as thanking D.P.I. for his vital coaching input and for doing the vast majority of the umpiring. It is always both difficult and foolish to predict how next season will go, but I would be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to it.
er, found the transition to first team cricket quite difficult, but with another two seasons in front of him, this year's experiences should make him a far better player. The spin department was the real backbone of the side. Dan Harris, the Last season we had to wait until the final game for our first victory; this time we went one experienced off spinner, was joined this year by the highly talented wrist spinner Nick better by winning our last two matches - the only two match- Dale-Lace, from the Upper Remove. Between them they bowled 397 overs, taking 58 es, in fact, in the whole of a rain-soaked second half-term. But before the glorious Sixth against a very wickets. Dan bowled very consistently, changing his line when the situation demanded, and always being there when his captain needed
1 Batting (Qualification 100 runs) Inn n.o Runs H.S. AV
Averages the best catches I have seen at schoolboy level.
of June, let us look at the rather disappointing (three defeats and three draws) April and May. Most of the games were played underthe relatively new system, whereby a number of overs (ratherthan afixed time) is agreed upon - usually 75 -of
something to happen. The fact that Dan played at all, considering the pain that he was suffering due to a very bad back injury, reflected his own determination which was often shown in his bowling. Nick already has many of the atwhich the side batting first is allowed no more than 40; this is merely a device to prevent the side batting first from killing the game by batting too long, and the cricket is still "real" - i.e. a draw is possible. The merits of the system were tributes of a high-class cricketer, and it was a very rare occurrence when he failed to perform. In addition to his bowling and batting, he is also a superb fielder, taking two of illustrated by our first match, against KEC Stourbridge, where we did not use it. We
Fielding was an area that the side prided themselves upon. Richard Major, Charlie Evans and James Tustin all excelled in the field, and this was one of the reasons that only two sides scored over
two hundred against us. Behind the stumps James Keegan showed a far higher
batted first, and rather badly, until a late burst from the lower order (Michael Honan 22, Andrew Lonbay 23, Charles Daniell 22, and a last-wicket bash from Tim Astles and 01iver du Sautoy); by the time we declared after 51 overs,
there were scarcely 30 left for the opposition, who finished up at 75-5 (Tom Pitts 3-16): standard of glove work than last year, and his continual encouragement was an imnotthe most exciting of matches. Against Warwick we also batted first, but here we had to Wkts 48 3 1 27 13 portant aspect of the team's success. The high standard of stop after 40 overs, during which we struggled to a mere 123-7- which would have been really awful but for James Parry's 49. Despite Robert See-
fielding is an area where the younger members of the side must do some work, for it is
A.A.D.G.
ley's 3-39, Warwick scored the required runs comfortably.
The batsmen had mastered the system by the time we played Wrekin, and Daniel Kendrick's 45, supported by an unbroken 7th wicket stand by Daniell (36 n.0.) and Chris Dodson (31 n.0.) took us to 199 - way beyond Wrekin's reach, though we only managed to take 6 of their wickets. The Solihull game was similar: again we batted first, and declared at 222-6,135 of which were scored by a reject from the First XI, James Tustin; but the boundaries were equally short for the opposition batsmen (Tustin had caused a number of balls to be lost during his innings!) and they threatened to come close until Daniell took 5 late wickets to stifle their challenge at 192-6. Against Hereford Cathedral School we batted second for a change, and much good it did us. Lonbay and Astles took 5 wickets in dismissing Hereford for 174, but - Parry (33) and John Huskinson (23) apart - our batting collapsed horribly and we lost by 70. Similarly against King's Gloucester we were skittled out for 137, leaving the opposition 50 overs to score the runs -which they did for no wickets.
But then the glorious Sixth of June. Hopes were not skyhigh before the RGS fixture, especially after the last two matches. But in the 40 overs the opposition were allowed they made only 150-5, thanks partly to Du Sautoy's 3 wickets when injured, partly to 3 catches behind the stumps by the ever-improving Parry, and most spectacularly by a stunning reflex catch by David Gough and a fumbling, but ultimately successful catch on the boundary by Matthew Thompson. Promising innings by Tustin (42), Thompson (23 - his third 20 of the season) and Richard Major (19) took us some of the way, but the situation was fairly dicey when the fifth wicket pair of Stephen Callow and Lloyd Cox came together. Both had started to look reasonable in the previous game, but what a time to reach peak form! They nursed the innings to within 20 of the
total, and then walloped the remainder in cavalier style. Three minutes laterthe ground was awash with a storm; but we'd won.
Parry three more dismissals, and, also in exactly 35 overs, we made the winning score of
154-9. Sounds exciting, in the superficial way of such match-
The final match, four weeks later, was against Bristol Grammar School. I wasn't there, but the scorebook makes it look horribly likely that the game was of the "limited overs" rather than the real variety. Bristol were dismissed for 153 in exactly 35 overs, with Kendrick and Steven Ott taking 3 wickets each, and es! Callow again made 30 - it was good to see the captain regaining not only his form but also his confidence - but the star turn was Philip Chaundy's 40 not out. Wouldn't it be nice if the team could carry on at the beginning of next season where it left off at the end of this!
R.N.G.S.
UNDER14 XI
UNDER13 XI
UNDER15 XI
In a season in which only one game was won and sometimes it was difficult to field a team at all, there is very little positive to write. The victory was against Hereford Cathedral School when we scored 146 (Oliver Davey 30) and dismissed the opposition for 102. Against WRGS, on the other hand, we managed only 26 in reply to WRGS' score of 210. When the team had the services of Nick Major or Nick DaleLace, there was always the prospect of a better performance. Major scored 61 against Warwick, the highest individual score of the season. DaleLace had many batsmen in trouble with his leg spin and also batted well at times. Oliver Davey, Stephen Daly, Stephen Protherough, Chris Husband, Duncan Griffiths, Henry Duckham, Andrew Freeman and Adam Papaphilippopoulos all bowled well on occasions, but all bowled far too many wides and bad balls. Tom Colley and Sam Bayliss shared the wicketkeeping and both were competent.
M.A.S./S. LE M.
The Ul4'A'team hada highly successful season, culminating invictoryoverW.R.G.S. in the final of the Lord's Taverners Cup. Passage to this final had been very straightforward, and included a sound thrashing of Malvern College In the actual final Nicholas Major continued his prolific form with an aggressive hundred and the opposition were never really in the picture despite some spirited hitting from the lower order. This victory avenged our only defeat of the season, largely the result of losing so many players to the First XI! Player of the season was Paul Hallett who was top wicket taker and scored some breezy runs (including amaiden fifty) in the middle order. 'New boys' Ben Pitts and William Hardy, both bowling allrounders, proved to be valuable additions to the side. The latter soon earned the nickname 'salmon' for some outstanding slip catches.
The 'B' team was unfortunate to lose several fixtures, but played some good cricket. The highlight of their season was a resounding win against Bromsgrove School, in which Jack Smith top scored with an undefeated 40 out of 128 for 3. Tight bowling from Peter Gill, and excellent fielding prevented the opposition mounting a serious challenge.
M.C.P.
The Under 13s did not win many of their matches, yet a buoyant optimism existed during all the games. The first 'A' team game against The Elms, Colwall proved to be a very exciting one. Both teams scored 52 runs in this Calypso trophy competition, but the Elms went through to the next round as they took fewer deliveries to reach theirtotal. The following week we were beaten by a very strong Warwick side and then again a week later we lost to Solihull; only Ausman Fiaz reached double figures against Warwick and against Solihull it was left to Oliver Mathew (28) and Harry Travers (13) to score any worthwhile runs. The benefits of reaching higher totals were not lost on the team and, happily, runs became more prolific against Hereford Cathedral School (128), WRGS (144), The Chase, Malvern (137) and against Bristol G.S. (137). Mathew (31), Nicholas lnsley (13) and Travers (15) all did well against Hereford, but Hereford held on foradraw as we were unable to take their last wicket. This inability to dismiss either the number 10 or 11 batsman became most marked in the final of the Worcestershire Schools Cup Competition. We reached the final having beaten The Chase in the quarter-final quite convincingly. Mathew scored his highest innings in this match
Under 14 XI - winners of the Lords' Taverners competition.
(51 n.0.) and we went on to bowl them out for 39 with Robert Donovan taking 3 for 13 by teasing out batsman like a thrush does a snail in its shell, with his left arm spin bowling. In the semi-final we won a rain-affected match against The Ridgeway School. They scored 60 runs off 15 overs and we reached the required number off 13.2 overs; Fiaz scoring 34 not out and lnsley 14.
Our hopes were high in the Final as we had already beaten RGS earlier in the season by four wickets. It was in this match that Tom Squire obtained his highest score of the season (32) and so did Robert Colquhoun (13). It was a pity that we did not score so freely in the Final. Our 74 runs did not seem sufficient at the tea interval, but some spectacularfielding by Insleyand James Greenfield along with some fine throwing by Hugh Pidduck and great catching by Travers and Andrew Wright, the balance of the game continued to shift back and forth like a novice on a skateboard. WRGS were 47 for 3 but collapsed to 62 for 9 We could not get the last wicket despite some splendid bowling from Insley, who bowled with unfailing accuracy, taking 4 for 22, and Wright finished with figures of 3 for 13. In the final game of theseason against Bristol GS, Marc Kennedy finally showed that he could time the ball pleasingly. He went on to score 20, his highest score, before being out LBW. Fiaz once
again played some glorious strokes in his 40 and Mathew remained not out on 23. He ended the season having scored 221 runs which gave him a batting average of 27.62.
The team was a pleasure to coach. They supported each other well and there was never a murmur of discontent. Oliver Mathew was an excellent captain. He has much natural talent, has very quick hands as a wicket keeper and I liked the way he brought out, in such a positive manner, the best in his players. The pick of the bowlers were Travers, Insley and Donovan who all took 12 wickets. Fiaz bowled with a lively rhythm, taking 10 wickets. The batting has already been mentioned and when this team puts together a run of high scores they will do very well indeed.
M.R.G.1K.A.P.W.
There was almost a sense of deja vu this season with the weather once again being particularly dismal, as a result of which we didn't play some of our key fixtures, against Monmouth, Breconand K.E.S. Birmingham. However, when we did play we proved to be a good team that got better as the season progressed, finishing with a creditable record of five victories, five defeats and one draw.
Overthe season twenty four boys represented either the A or the B team. In spite of this number we were lacking in
sufficient depth to produce a strong side, often having boys in the A side who had played little or no cricket previously: this is one possible reason for our becoming better towards the end of term. Simon and Guy Potter are worth particular mention here: they overcame their inexperience and became valuable team members especially for their fielding.
Some fine individual performances stick in the memory. Sam Cullen scored 70 against Hereford Cathedral School with Huw Dimond making 50 in the same match. The total of 165 for 3 declared was easily our best but we made rather heavy weather of dismissing the opposition for 49 runs in 30.3 overs, both Rammy Arafa and William Woodhouse taking 3 wickets. Big scores proved too difficult for us too often: our batting needed to be more consistent, requiring greater patience, coupled with greater aggression against weak attacks. One of the few displays of savage batting came from Tom Cullen against R.G.S. Worcester. He hit avery quick 48 (putting two balls in the nearby canal in the process) and in a partnership with Will Smith, scoring 36, helped us on our way to a total of 144 for 9 declared. Furious batting from their opener, who whilst scoring 44 put several spectators in danger, got the opposition off to a good start and they looked sure of victory. However, tight bowling, especially from Sam Cullen with
3 for 12 off 7 overs, saw us win a thrilling game by 19 runs in the penultimate over.
Fielding was a strong point of the side, at times being exceptional. There were some stunning catches and excellent run outs. Charles Jefferson-Loveday was quite tidy behind the stumps. There were a number of times when our superior fielding was the difference between winning and not. Probably only in our final game did we come up against a side who surpassed us in this area. This was in the final of the Calypso Cup Competition. Comfortable victories in previous rounds against the Chase High School and Red Hill ( the latter a victory by 10 wickets), perhaps made us feel a little too sure of ourselves. Comberton Middle School, our final opponents, had a good attack and were sharp in the field, easily dismissing us for 69, with no batsman reaching double figures. Beaten by 9 wickets, we came across two exceptional batsmen, and the opposition needed only 11 overs to achieve their target. It was a fairly pleasing season overall, made particularly so by a group of boys who were keen to learn. For their enthusiasm in playing good supporting roles in the A team Rory Ewers,James Davis and Matthew Johnson should receive mention plus of course all those boys who turned out regularly to practise and represent the B team.
Adam Phillips bowls in Jersey
There were fixtures and District Championships for each age group, the County championships and Mason Trophy for selected athletes and the Fourth Form and Senior athletic sports. Well overone hundred pupils represented the School. Of these, thirty three were selected for the City of Worcester and fifteen were City champions, eleven went on to win medals at the County Championships and three were County champions. Finally, three pupils were selected for Hereford and Worcestershire and won their County vests in the prestigious Mason Trophy, an interCounty match against Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire, West Midlands and Avon. In terms of qualifiers and medalists this was a less successful season than 1997, but even so there were some excellent results both as individuals and as teams. I cannot, of course, mention all of them in this report but I will attempt to highlight some of the most memorable.
The best middle distance performances came from Alexander Garwood-Gowers. He won the County 1500m title and finished fifth in the Mason trophy. Other promis-
ing performers were Thomas Weddell (1500m) and Rachel Miller (1500/800m). A mention here fortwo leavers, Mark Forrester (800m) and Thomas Brown (1500m) who gave great support to the athletics club over the years. Pride of place, once again, goes to Daniel Plank who will be competing at the English Schools' Athletics Championship in the IntermediateBoys' High Jump. He was the only athlete to qualify for this event from King's. Other jumpers of note were Ruth Robinson, Anna Brookes and Aaron Sagar, all in the long jump.
We havesome useful sprinters, most dominant of whom is probably Nick Major. He was unable to compete at the County event because of a 1st XI Cricket match but he remained undefeated. Stephanie Crowe demonstrated her talent in the 100m and won a silver medal at the County Minors Championship. The throwers performed well. Charles Foulkes and Emily Freeman in the javelin, David Gough, William Walker and Samantha Doughty in the shot were perhaps the pick. Emily's winning throw in the County Minors of 25.18 was a fine effort and one that bodes well for future success.
As a team, the U4 girls team at their District Championship did particularlywell. They won six out of the nine City titles on offer and at the County event
played a major part in helping the District win the Girls' title.
A thank you to all of the team captains who helped me round up teams and in particular to Richard Lewis for captaining the Senior boys so efficiently. A big thank you to FLS who helped in many ways, but particularly with organising the girls, and to members of staff who gave up their time
to officiate: SRD, CJL, BG, PTG and PCT. I sincerely hope that I can count on your support next season. In conclusion, athletics is starting to flourish but there is still much to do. There needs to be more staffing for coaching and for teams so that I can extend the programme particularly at the top end of the School. We still suffer from not having acrosscountry team. We have some rather weak events and year groups. I hope that pupils will accept thechallenge, train and improve the standard of our athletics at King's. Too many of our potentially good ath-
letes rely on naturaltalent: they have already found that without practice they cannot maintain their dominance. For the immediate future, I would like to see even more pupils taking part in athletics and qualifying for championships. It would be good to think that
Senior Sports
others could follow the example of Daniel Plank and reach the English Schools' Championship.
Daniel Plank won the high jump at the Mason trophy and qualified for the English Schools' Athletics Championship. At this prestigious event, he jumped a personal best of 2.03that earned him thesilver medal and also selection for England in a Home Nations international. Here he once again bettered his personal best with aclearance of 2.05m and won another silver medal.
girl in any age group.
The form competition was extremely close. In fact, after careful scrutiny it was found that U4C and U4D finished first equal and L4D only won their competition by two points.
U4 VICTORLUDORUM
Benjamin Blackshaw
Stephanie Crowe
~4 V ICTOR LUDORUM
Colours were awarded as follows:
Re-awarded Full Colours:
Daniel Plank
Full Colours:
Richard Lewis
Charles Foulkes
Mark Forrester
Alexander Garwood-Gowers
Lauren Lawson-Pratt
Half Colours:
Thomas Brown
Jonathan Corr
Edward Tandv
Charles ~oulies
David Gough
Jessica Page
Gerard Ludlow
Richard Major
Richard Welsh
James Doel
Jennifer Pearce
Sarah Roberts
Jennifer Hughes
Anna Gregorowski
James Doel
Fourteen records were broken at this event and eight of these fell to U4 girls. The most notable were the 1OOm record set by Stephanie Crowe and the new javelin mark by Emily Freeman. Stephanie's time of 13.4 bettered her existing mark by three tenths and confirmed her status as the fastest girl in the history of the school for any age group. Emily's javelin record of 24.17 was one metre short of her personal best but still only three metres short of the best ever throw for any
James Davis
~4 V ICTRIX LUDORUM
Julia GilbertIJessica Higgs
The event took place at the School track and was reasonably successful but it is my intention to move the sports to the City track next year for an evening meeting. This modern eight lane venue negates the need for heats in the sprints, is safer and automatically upgrades performances. Furthermore, the event which is no longer a whole school event can be supported by those who want to be there. It is still my intention to keep it as a House competition with all performances counting towards one overall trophy. This, I feel, is a good format for getting a House to pull together across traditional age group boundaries.
Next year will also see the need to extend the programme
with the girls being divided at least in some events into separate age groups. With the ratio of girls increasing this is not only desirable but necessary.
Richard Major gained the accolade of being the fastest pupil in the School with an excellent sprint double and his brother Nick, as a Junior boy, produced the second quickest times on the day. Another notable performance was achieved by James Doel who capped an excellent season of all-round improvement with a clearance of 1.77m, in difficult conditions, to win the Senior Boys high jump and break the school record. The Senior team for next year looks to be a potentially strong one. D.T.N.
This team met with mixed success but had an enjoyable season. They got off to a poor start by going down to a 6-0 defeat against Cheltenham College who are alwaysformidable opposition. In their second match, however, they bounced back with a resounding victory win over Hanley Castle. Later in the season they also beat King Edward's, Stourbridge and Alice Ottley.
The regular fixture between
BASKETBALL
This has been a year that hasseen more pupilsthan ever playing basketball at King's. The Saturday morning coaching sessions have been very well attended, by aregularand dedicated group of pupils, whose skills have developed throughout the year.
The result of the increased
interest has been that the school has been able to field two sides who have been able to compete with some of the best sides in the area. The teams were entered into the Worcestershire Basketball League Club competition, playing sides from Bromsgrove, Pershore, Malvern and Worcester.
the Upper Sixth and Lower Sixth had to be cancelled this year as most of the Lower Sixth team were too distant to take part : in the Himalayas actually! The Inter House hockey shield was won by Kittermaster captained by Kate Hickson, after aclosely fought against Oswald. It was gratifying to see one of the girls, Lydia Robinson playing club hockey for Worcester Norton and doing so well in the Midlands Tournament.
The team captaincy was shared with Rebecca Jones in charge of the defence and
The Under 14 side, captained with great confidence by Phil Burdon, won every match they played to take the League title - they were presented with their trophy after winning averyclosefinal game against Pershore. Nick Major remains one of the best players in the school, and he was supported by some very spirited performances from the likesof Tom Soden, Paul Volo, Chris Grant, Joe Robinson, Tom Chan, Simon Lowth, Stuart Ross and Luke Narraway. This team should perform well in the Worcester schools competition next season.
The Under 16 side competed well in the matches they played, having some creditable wins as well as some narrow defeats. Julian Menzies and Sam Malins proved to be thc back-bone of the team, playing with skill and determination. They were supported by Chris Candlish, Josh Hand and Stevie Lim, playing a year above themselves, as well as some of the members of the Under 14 side - the experience they gained should do them a lot of good in the future.
All the pupils involved in basketball in the school, and I myself, would like tosay thank you to Muff Murfin for his continued support and enthusiasm - he gives of his time freely, both on Saturdays and when the sides have matches, and it is very much appreciated by all of us.
R.P.G.
Rebecca Birtwhistle in charge of the attacks. Both did a good job, Rebecca Birtwhistle's enthusiasm and commitment being particularly welcome.
Full colours were retained by Rebecca Birtwhistle, Rebecca Jones , Lydia Robinson. Half colours were awarded to Jenny Howlett, Jenny Pearce and Dominique Laurence.
We hope that those who have moved on will continue to enjoy their sport and be successful in years to come.
V.J.
A squad of 20 players trained regularly. They displayed tremendous enthusiasm and were very receptive in learning new skills and set plays. They made excellent progress and got to grips with new playing positions and strategies. It was a very competitive and successful season.
XI
A committed core of players held the team together this season. Olivia Borastero was a responsible captain and set a good example to the others. Some U15 players helped to boost numbersand gave depth to the squad.
The first event of the season was the County Tournament and as it was early in the season they encountered fitness and positional problems. They lost 3 out of their 4 matches butwon against North Bromsgrove. They played in the Indoor CountyTournament and despite a lack of experience, they performed creditably and again beat North Bromsgrove. They unfortunately did not win any of their main matches but had some narrow defeats and nail biting draws. They drew with St Mary's Convent and Hereford Cathedral School. Jodie Guest was the top scorer with a total of six goals this season.
A healthy squad of 18 players trained regularly throughout the season. Some U14 players were an important part of the squad. The season was rather mixed but included some good wins over Prince Henry's, Malvern Girl's College, The Alice Ottley and Blessed Edward Oldcorne. The top scorer was Jenny Elderkin and Jenny and Katie Jones were selected for the countv sauad and have since
They played extremely well in the Blue Coat lnvitational Tournament only losing to the eventual winners King's Heath in the semi finals. They were also section runners up in the mini hockey competition losing only to Moatfield. Dreadful weather conditions and very short matches hampered their style at the county tournament. Shooting was rather off target and they missed some critical goals and so they lost to the eventual winnersBromsgrove.
Anna Brookes was selected to play for the county and her efforts were tireless in midfield. They scored an amazing number of goals - 42 in total. Seven girls entered the score sheet which was topped by Emily Freeman with 12 followed closely by Frances Gwilliam with 11 and Stephanie Crowe with 10.
V.J.
SRC coached an enthusiastic group of players who trained hard and made excellent progress, especially as a number of Lower Fourth girls were completely new to hockey. Players had to learn a new formation on the pitch, which has improved their effectiveness in both attack and defence. Rebecca Whear and Rebecca Gwilliam were particularly successful in their new roles. Unfortunately towards the end of the season, matches were cancelled due to poor weather, but we hope that the team will go on to fulfil its promise at Under 13.
Abigail Williams was selected as the under 13 County represented the county in several matches.
N.R.A.
Kenji Lim shoots for two
NaEaTmBaAaLaL
were against Prince Henry's and St. Mary's Convent.
VII
The competition for places in the 1st VII Netball squad has become more and more intense as the standard of netball has improved over the years, and the number of girls wishing to participate has increased. Squad training has seen a record number of sixth form girls consistently attending, so that we could have run 3 full teams comfortably this year, made up of only Lower and Upper sixth girls - quite a new feature for us! In fact matches were arranged for 1st and 2nd VII teams. and a areat
Half Colours awarded to :Katherine Williams Ch Alexandra Symondson Ch Sarah Roberts Cl Anna Stokes C r
Full Colours awarded to :Jenny Hall W (2nd VII Captain.)
The 1st VII fought hard for theirteam positions,and maintained a high level of skill and commitment throughout the season. Under the calm and controlled captaincy of Rebecca Birtwhistle, the squad played well in its matches, with particularly pleasing results deal of fun and enjoymen;was against Bromsgrovep St. had by all. Mary's Convent, Prince Hen-
An enthusiastic2nd VII team ry's, Elgar High School and North Bromsgrove High was trained by SRC and I1 school. ~twas particularly re- fixtures were played.The team warding for me this year, as developed into a cohesive unit the Upper Sixth girls were the playing with increasing levels of skill. Notable successes first group to have come right
through from the Lower Fourths. They were a delightful group, both on and off court.
Full Colours awarded to :Rebecca Birtwhistle Cl (I st VII Captain)
Zoe Witowski Cr
Lauren Lawson-Pratt Cl
Rose Panter S
Rebecca Jones C r
Half Colours awarded to :-
Jenny Pearce Cl
Emily Murfin Cr
Dominique Laurence Cl
Jenny Howlett OS
The Inter-House Netball Tournament was exciting and closely fought, with the deserving victory going to Chappel House.
The end of the season was celebrated with a lively and entertaining Netball and Hockey Supper, wherecolours were presented, votes of thanks given, and fond farewells made! Many of these U6 girls have come through the school, having shown an unfailing and reliable commitment to our Department throughout their years here, and it will seem strange without them! I wish the leaving girls every success and happiness in the future, and very much hope they will continue to enjoy playing netballfor many years to come.
N.R.A.
VII
This team wassuperbly captained by Ruth Robinson and had a mixed season winning six matches out of the fifteen played. Rosie Tustin had an excellent season often scoring 80% of her shots at goal and was rewarded by being selected to play for her county. Sarah Cullen as the centre played in every match and was an excellent key player in setting many goals. Jodie Guest also played in every match and proved to be a most useful and versatile attacking player.
Overall the team had a tremendous season, playing at a good standard at all times.
V.J.
UNDER15 VII
Once again we have been able to run two teams this year. Both teams have played well and have improved on their individual skills, as well as set pieces on court.
The A team had a frustrating start to the season against St Mary's Convent, keeping the score level until the final minutes, narrowly losing, 12 goals to 8.
They then went on to draw 9-9 against Nunnery Wood, a hard fought match, played in a good competitive spirit. The same score was reachedwhen playing against Hanley Castle. a few weeks later.
The crunch game came when we came up against Alice Ottley, a very hard match to play. The possession was equal; however their goalshooters were on form and ours were not, which was a great pity as the defenders and centre court players, were playing a high standard of netball. The final result was 22 goals to 3. All was not lost, as the B Team came up trumps and beat Alice Ottley 14 goals to 3.
The same thing happened at Hereford Cathedral School, where the A team lost 22-1 1, but the B team, had an amazing match, clinching victory at 10 goals to 9.
Unfortunately the A Team were unable to pick up and finished off the season losing to Pates Grammar School 27 goals to 7.
T.D.M.
V11
The Under 14 Netball team had avaried season. To begin with, they reached the semifinal of the District Tournament where unfortunately they lost 6-4 to Alice Ottley who were the eventual winners.
lsla Robertson was a splendid captain and as goal attack scored many exceptional goals. Olivia Brown played in every match and proved just as useful at goal keeper as
goal shooter. Sam Doughty and Rachel Barclay also played in every match and deserve credit and thanks for their tireless effort and total commitment throughout the season. Unfortunatelytwogirls suffered ongoing knee problems which meant that other players had to play out of position, and victories then became scarce.
V.J.
VII
This year group has built on what was a very promising Under l2 squad last year, and have proved themselves to be every bit as skilled and successful as I had hoped. They trained hard, and played intelligently, supporting one another in matches with a strong competitive team spirit.
The B team has Played 9, and Lost only 1 - a very creditable result from a strong B team, which would be a match for most other schools' A teams.
The A team has remained unbeaten throughout the season since September, with convincing wins against St.Mary's Convent, Bromsgrove, Nunnery Wood, Dyson Perrins, Hanley Castle, Chantry, Alice Ottley, Dean Close, Hereford Cathedral School, Blessed Edward's, and Hillstone. This is afantastic record, and a tough act to follow!
They were also the Winners of the City Year 8 Tournament, and Winners of the District Tournament. This meant that they represented
Worcester in the County Tournament held at Bromsgrove. They performed strongly in their Section, and came up against Hillstone in the semifinal, winning 6-3.In the Final they met a team they had never come across beforeMoatfield - so had no idea of their standard, and didn't know what to expect! They played hard from the whistle, and at the end of time, won 8 -3- a convincing win! So our team became Under 13 County Champions, and this is the first time King's girls have been in this position, but not the last, I hope! Once again the team worked as a close knit and supportive group, but I feel special commendation is deserved by Stephanie Crowe for her outstanding and tireless defensive play, and Lyndsay Miller for her consistently high shooting scores, ranging from 80to 100% success rate.
The girls have been a pleasure to coach, and I look forward to their future in netball, and wish them continued success and enjoyment.
N.R.A
their section, and then the Semi-Final, sadly losing to Blessed Edward's in the Final.
They were also runners up at the Bromsgrove Invitation Tournament after a close fought Final against Millfield Prep, which resulted in a 4 - 4 draw. Unfortunately in the 2 minutes extra time, Millfield stole the trophy!
occasions at third post. Full colours were awarded to Rebecca Jones and also to Rebecca Birtwhistle who leaves us with the school record of scoring twenty rounders in one match.
V.J.
1X
VII
This year so many girls attended training that we would have had enough players for 4 teams! This meant that the competition for the A and B teams was quite intense! There have also been C team matches, and the general standard of play wasvery high.
The B team were runners Lip in the District Tournament for B teams, and the A team runners up at the Worcester City Tournament, having won
This team began to gel well; there were some fine performances in their matches, with convincing wins over Nunnery Wood, Hanley Castle, Chantry H.S., Christopher Whitehead, Dyson Perrin's, Dean Close, The Downs, Cheltenham Ladies' College, Hereford Cathedral School, Hillstone, Pate's, and The Alice Ottley. I look forward with high hopes for next year.
N.R.A
ROUNDERS
UNDER18 1X
Training for the Under 18 rounders team was fun and the addition of a few boys provedto be just what the team needed as they got better and stronger as the season went on. The team captained by Jessica Page played three matches narrowly losing to Hereford Cathedral and Alice Ottley but finished the season with an exciting and convincing win against St Mary's Convent. Sara-Jane Perera, played superbly as a deep fielder, Kathryn Williams delivered some fine bowling and Georgina Dalton stumped the opposition out on numerous
As this was their examination year the girls played only their fixtures and practised in their games lesson.The team was not at its usual strength having lost Rosie Tustin and Jodie Guest to tennis commitments. Sarah Cullen proved to be a splendid bowler with hard and fast deliveries, while Anna Jonesstepped in as back stop. The team captain Ruth Robinson ensured the early exit of many of the opposing players at first post. Olivia Borastero and Sarah Henshaw proved reliable deep fielders with their safe handling of the ball. Two games were playedagainst St. Mary's and Alice Ottley but unfortunately both were lost.
V.J.
The season was drastically shortened by the weather and we only played one match which was against the Alice Ottley. Unfortunately we were narrowly beaten. It was our first match and the side showed real promise. Kate Jones captained and set a good example by scoring lots of rounders. She and Nafeesa Ahmed were most useful at deep fielding and Kay Jones and Jenny Elderkin were consistent with their bowling. Fif-
The unbeaten Under 13 netball team
teen girls were involved with the sport, training one evening a week.
F.L.S.
During the summer term
lost one of her singles games throughout.
1X
Theteam was captained brilliantly by Emma Ordidge who inspired with her excellent deep fielding and great ability to score rounders. The team
twenty girls in the Lower Fourth attended the weekly rounders practice which enabled King's to produce an A and a B team.The B team played two matches, beating Hillstone
with an impressive win of 15 rounders to a half. The A team beat Dean Close 12-11, Hillstone 17-1and St Mary's Convent 19-4, with Rebecca Gwilpractised regularly and made steady progress although several matches had to be can- liam scoring at least three and sometimes five rounders in a match. Teamwork was uppercelled due to inclement weather.
most with Lara Parsons as bowler, Naomi Roberts as back-stop and Rebecca Gwil-
The squad of four players was; Sara Lewis, Jenny Elderkin, Kate Jones and Lorna Pritchard.
The girls had a strong commitment throughout the season and practice time paid off. I am sure they will go on to even better things next season.
T.D.M.
The squad faced the term with a full fixture list and Two matches were played against Hereford Cathedral and Alice Ottley but unfortunately we lost both.
V.J.
A committed band of girls attended training every week, and although the weather adversely affected the fixtures,
emerged as a highly successful team. In the Midland Bank Friendly League the A Team, liam at first post, which the opposition found very tough indeed.
V.J. consisting of Frances Gwilliam, Lyndsay Miller, Rachael Millerand Emily Freeman,was undefeated and emerged as overall winners.
The B Team of Anna Brookes, Melanie Thorn, Stephanie Crowe and Aimee Shaw, lost only to King's A we were lucky enough to hold most of our matches, and this energetic, competitive team
In the sixth form tennis is regarded very much as an en- Team and were therefore runners up in the league. won them all! They beat Dean Close, Alice Ottley, Downsand Hereford, always with convincing results.
joyable recreational activity and a large number of boys and girls played every week,
The top playersfaced tougher opposition in inter-school and as fixtures had been made for both girls' and mixed pairs, there was considerable competition for the few places available in the teams! King's matches against Hereford and Bromsgrove. These were both highly competitive andclosely
Particular credit should go to Cassie Brennan and Frances Gwilliam for their high fought fixtures with King's being the victors against Hereford by 16 games to 15, but rounders scoring rate, but really the game is one of total won both their mixed matches, beating Hereford Cathedral School and the Chase, commitment and understanding, so thefielding works quickly and effectively. The girls
losing to Bromsgrove by 4 sets to 5. and special mention should go to Karina Tipton, Harry Gladwin, Jo Brown, Jamie Whitmore, Jenny Howlett and Andrew Whitehouse for their
training and with the Poynder Tennis Coaching. In particular, girls who have had the chance to play in matches have gained from the experience, where consistent, steady rallies are so important, and a reliable serve a necessity.
N.R.A
have not gained team places have continued to show commitmentto training. Clare Roberts, Lucy Chatfield and Elizabeth Sutherland have all made
contribution to the team. The girls' team had a tough match against the Alice Ottley, but very good progress and this has been reflected in theirperformances in the Inter-Form didverywell, withourfirst team drawing 2-2, and the second team winning 3-1. Unfortu- Competition.
It has been pleasing that members of the squad who have achieved an excellent fielding record, with a very strong pairing of Anna Brookes and Frances Gwilliam as backstop and first post, stumping the opposition out on numerous occasions, and consistently accurate bowling from Lyndsay Miller. In the outfield, Emily Freeman supported the team with tremendously pow-
S.R.C. nately, our other fixtures were cancelled by bad weather, but the spirit of the team was neverful and accurate throws.
The season ended with a lively and entertaining match between the girls and their er dampened!
mothers, who turned up in assorted styles of kit, but nicely armed with a wonderful tea! Needless to say the girls were not going to allow a defeat, and won 15 - 10.
N.R.A.
Half Colours were awarded to Karina Tipton.
N.R.AI S.R.C.
The U15 girls were entered into the Midland Bank League this year. All four girls played well throughout the season, but a special mention must go to Lorna Pritchard who only
For many girls this year is the first time they have played tennis properly, so they have had to start from scratch. They have thoroughly enjoyed playing, and have made tremendous progress in their first season. Those who have played before have also worked hard and their tennis skills have improved greatly with the constant practice, both in team
Paul Prowse, with the part of the loud American, Bobby van Husen, comically drawled by Adam Smith. Stefan Agopsowicz, in the more difficult adult role of Polly's father, was appropriately
IT IS ONE of life's little trivial coinci intrigues of a French finishing school, gentle and eccentric, and the romantic dences that the 1983 Vigomian's run by the rather unconventional conclusion of his reunion with old 'Welcome' page for new staff Madame Dubonnet, beautifully played Madame Dubonnet, was a good bv the statuesaue Amv contrast with the more noisy and
includes the youthful face of SLeM as al Alastair well as an enthusiastic review of a production of 'The Boyfriend' staged in College Hall by Mr. Peter Diamond and BC; 1997 saw a revival of that musical directed on this occasion by BC and SLeM.
'The Boyfriend' has a very lightweight and instantly forgettable plot (that's my excuse, anyway!), but in terms of entertainment value and escapism it is an excellent show. A parody of the dizzy 1920s, it incorporates memorable tunes, jaunty dance opportunities, comedy concerned with love, misunderstandings and disguise,
Thornton. Her pupils were the stars of the show with very slick performances from Eleanor Timson, Debra Parker and Lucy Thompson. Polly Browne, the sad little rich girl, who is mistaken for a secretary by the long-lost son of the wealthy Lord and Lady Brockhurst, hilariously played by Rose Panter and Oliver Doherty, was sensitively portrayed by Bethan Pickrell. Her poignant love song with the predictably profession-
Brookshaw as Tony, was a high point in the production. The giggly flirt, Maisie, who is chased by all the boys, was superbly played by Zoe Harrison achieving a perfect combination of mischief and innocence. Her
predictable pairings of the younger generation.
The singing and dancing of the chorus was a uniting and very entertaining element of the show. The choreography of TDM and the combined musical talents of the Brookshaw father-and-son team ensured maximum use was made of the opportunities offered. The chorus looked fantastic, sounded very professional and it was obvious they were enjoying every minute. The climax of the evening was the fancy-dress ball, when the whole stage was filled with colour, carefully choreographed movement and appropriately jazzy music. It was a real feast for
at a more predictable level than Twelfth were Susie Lambert, Lloyd Cox, Dehrcr Pcrrker; Lucy Thorn/?son Night, and colourful and varied cos- delivered with tumes and locations. confidence and her whole performance the eyes and ears. The other big chorus was strong and memorable. The French number which has to be mentioned was The story is based around the girlie maid, Hortense, the scene set on 'le plage'. The direcwas very effectively played by Anna Jones with a wonderfully comic French accent and a real twinkle in her eye.
The French lads were successfully played by Lloyd Cox, Chris Dodson and
tors went for atmosphere in a big way with a magnificent array of brightly coloured girls' bathing dresses and hats, those unmistakable 1920s stripy men's bathing suits, changing tents, beach balls and surf boards.
The demands on the technical crew were numerous, but the show ran very smoothly and the lighting enhanced scene and atmosphere very effectively The whole team of fifth and sixth formers, with the unshakeable support of a large number of staff, is to be congratulated.
S.H. LE M.
Bethan Pickrell and Alistczir Brookshaw
Debra Parker, Lucji Thompson
FESTUVA L
struggled a little more with the emo-
machine? The whole house worked tional demands of the part. These two hard and the audience enjoyed the were supported by a large cast with obvious camaraderie as much as the mixed success. A number of actors did performers. Mention must be made of not know their lines quite well enough the efficient cameo roles of Will Studd and set and props could have been used and Jenine Jones and the major efforts in a more helpful way. Even if the of Edgars Grandans to swallow his performance did not run totally smooth- accent and appear as the very British 1998's Drama Festival was a real ly, it was effective enough to make Inspector Lestrade. celebration of the diversity of theatre clear the themes and to illustrate just Choir House's enthusiastic contribuand a pleasing reflection of the talents, how good a play 'The Visit' is. tion was the hilarious farce 'Black confidence and enthusiasm of so many
Kittermaster House's slick and Comedy' by Peter Shaffer. Most of the of our pupils from the hwer Remove thought-provoking production of 'After action of this play takes place in a to the Upper Sixth. This year's efforts ~i~~~~~l~ by J~~~~ Saunders was power cut and in order to achieve the in particular illustrated well, despite all ideal as a house play and very well best dramatic effect the usual condithe pain and frustrations inevitably done. Being a short play about commu- tions of light and dark are reversed. The created by staging some of these nication and connection, or lack of it, play opens in complete darkness, demanding plays, that one of the particularly among the young, it was though one can hear the characters strengths of the house system is the perfect for the group of eighteen actors behaving as if nothing is out of the fierce pride which evolves from a sense from all year groups. The short scenes ordinary. A snap to bright light, when a of belonging and which produces such produced a great deal of laughter, as so fuse blows, forces the characters to worthwhile results. many of the situations were so familiar behave as if all the lights had been Oswald House bravely attempted a to the audience. Timing was carefully extinguished. The potential for comedy production of the difficult and intrigu- handled by the actors and I was struck is obvious. Adam Swinburn undertook ing Durrenmatt tragicomedy 'The Visit' by the freshness of the material and the his first major acting role with the with Ruth Appleby and Ben Bartholom- insight it produces into relationships massive and challenging part of ew directing. Ellie Joyce and Adam and the power and ambiguity of words. Knowles undertook the enormously Oliver Doherty deserves the highest praise for putting the show together, as well as producing a good performance himself, and the appearances of many other members of the house were memorable.
Hostel House's production of 'The Norwood Builder' adapted from a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, was highly entertaining, though I don't think even the cast would defend it as great drama. Allan Clayton and David Rankin directed and starred as the famous Holmes and challenging roles of the elderly Watson. I must say that I found the plot reunited in unusual c~I'cu~s~~~c~s after difficult to follow and the perforty years. Ellie's performance was formance raised more questions than it very assured with excellent and con- answered. Why does Peter Lau always vincing use of voice, movement, appear in uniform on stage? Was David costume and make-up to age her by Plant7s waving of the cane supposed to nearly fifty Years. Adam was very good be significant or a red herring? What as the hunted Alfred Ill, though he exactly was DPI doing with that smoke
Brindsley, the young sculptor whose evening for impressing his prospective father-in-law and an elderly art collector, is ruined by the power cut. He coped brilliantly with what is an exhausting part, as Brindsley tries, under cover of darkness, to return borrowed antique furniture to his neighbour's flat and conceal the fact that his ex-girlfriend has arrived to cause mischief. Alexandra Symondson, as well as ably directing, enjoyed playing his silly, empty-headed girlfriend, Carol. Other excellent perform-
ances came from Sam Malins as the camp neighbour, Harold, and Dominic Sarkar as the German refugee working for the London Electricity Board, who is mistaken for George Bamberger, the millionaire who Brindsley hopes will buy some of his work. The rest of the cast supported well, despite a few problems with lines, and the show provided a very good evening's entertainment.
'Blood Wedding' by Federico Garcia Lorca was produced by Chappel House. This Spanish tragedy about family honour and passion has a beautiful lyrical quality to it and was movingly presented by a large cast from the Lower Remove to the Upper Sixth. The rhythms of the language and extensive use of imagery and symbols were very well handled, particularly by Anna Morton in the major role of The Bridegroom's mother. Her measured, clear voice and expressive gestures created a mature and memorable performance. Dominique Lawrence and Adam Smith were excellent as the
Bride and Leonardo, the lover with whom she runs away on her wedding day. Edward Smith was creatively cast as the Bridegroom and brother of the usurper, a role which he filled very well and the rest of the cast supported superbly. Other performances worth mentioning were Amy Thornton's long, slow and very black Death and Isobel Owen's and Gemma Martyn-Smith's as little girls. Lucy Teasedale was not only a very convincing Moon, but stepped in at the last moment to replace an indisposed girl. The set was minimal but striking with the symbolic colours of red and black dominating. The floor, painted a Mediterranean cream, added warmth and atmosphere and the effect was beautifully enhanced by the use of poignant Spanish folk music. The final tableaux of Spanish women in deep mourning with the haunting accompaniment of the classical guitar was powerful and unforgettable. Overall it was an assured and very accomplished performance.
The performance of Tess of the D'Urbervilles by members of the Upper Remove was an impressive spectacle I and a landmark in King's School's long / theatrical history. For the first time we had been able to offer GCSE Drama as I an option in the Upper Remove and , Fifth Form and the option was enthusi-
roles and an opportunity for a large number of students to take part but it also provided some extraordinarily difficult staging problems ; a good deal of the action occurs on journeys of various kinds, many of them in horsedrawn vehicles! There were also challenges confronting the actors, manv of whom were reauired to - ,
was the creaking of the trapdoor or the rope which was connected with the ultimate fate of Tess - i.e.her execution by hanging for the murder of Alec D'Urberville. Both threads of sound,the singing and the death sound provided a significant reminder that Tess was indeed fated and that her destruction was inevitable.
I speak in a Dorset dialect and to l play older characters.
i I think SLeM and SHLeM's production overcame these problems in an extraordinarily successful way. This young group of actors produced a I lyrical and moving account of
IHardy's ill-fated tragic heroine and gave a really convincing performance as characters from a Nineteenth Century rural landscape.
Throughout the play, scenes were marked out by the singing of i astically taken up by a large and lively plaintive, folk tunes performed by group of students. numbering 35 in all! Abigail Dancyger and Lorna Pritchard. / The choice of Tess of the Their singing was so haunting and the D'Urbervilles as a play for them to sound so pure that they gave an I perform was a brave one. Yes. it would emotional keynote to the scenes which provide a number of good character followed. The other major sound motif
Ellie Joyce's portrayal of Tess was engaging and mature. She looked delicate and vulnerable, yet she played the role with intelligence and emotional conviction. The audience could readily believe in her, yet Hardy's heroine is
Ellie Joyce, Anna Haigh and Margaret Keightley
! Adum Swirzburn, Ellie Joyce, and Ai7rla Hciigh
quite hard to accept, she is always so ready to blame herself and so convinced that she is born on a "Blighted Planet". Dan Turner's Angel was also a convincing and strong performance. Mention must be made of Adam Swinburn too,who was one of the few non-GCSE candidates acting in the production. His portrayal of the villain, Alec D'Urberville, was excellent and this was a difficult role. I particularly enjoyed his scenes with Tess on the pony chaise as they careered down the hill. Adam managed to register some of the complex changes in Alec as the story progressed. Tom Wheaton and Katie Ganderton gave good performances as Tess's old parents, John and Joan Durbeyfield, and Katie's feckless, whining Dorset brogue was particularly convincing. Of the more comical character roles, Richard Huzzey's Dairyman Crick and Jeremy Davey's stuffy, pompous Felix Clare were both good, entertaining roles. The dairymaids played by Anna Haigh, Margaret Keightley and Natasha Stewart provided an attractive trio, and there were moments of real emotional intensity especially from Margaret's Izz Huett.
This production was visually most impressive.The huge blocks of Stonehenge remained as a visual presence throughout the play, sometimes becoming a door or a section of building. They acted as a brooding reminder of the forces at work against Tess and of her ultimate fate. It was particularly pleasing that the Theatre Studies A Level students, Daniel Hankins and Ben Pitts could be involved with the stage and lighting design. For both of them this production represented an assessed part of their A Level work and it certainly did them credit; their conception of the staging of the whole play added considerably to the coherence and artistic effect of the production.
This was a wonderful start to what I sincerely hope will be a series of strong productions by GCSE groups. The talent, skill and self-discipline of this company certainly reinforced what I have long held to be true - that we should start to develop the acting potential of this age group by giving them a serious focus to their drama work in the shape of a proper GCSE course at the right stage in their academic lives.
R.C.J.D.
sfa ndS a
This play, written by Sue Saunders and performed by members of the Fourth Forms on two nights in June, is based on the diary of Anne Frank, the Dutch girl who, with her family, hid from the Germans for much of the Occupation until, almost on the eve of liberation, they were discovered and deported to the camps, and to their deaths.
was the cheerful (of course!) dentist who shared the Franks' secret quarters. Oliver Brooks and Alexandra Melville, as Anne's parents, and Felicity Hill as
her sister, all gave performances which were startling in their maturity: Brooks's Mr Frank - incidentally the only member of his family to survive the camps - was a rock of common sense and courage, and the natural leader of the party.
The r81e of Miep Gies, the gentile who supplied all the material needs of those in hiding, was played by Helena Culliney. She represented well the many thousands of the Dutch whose spirits were never crushed and who helped each other and their Jewish friends and neighbours at a terrifying risk to themselves, since the penalty for being caught giving such help was to be shot at once: many suffered that fate, though, happily, Miep Gies did not. The Wardrobe had supplied a shapeless mackintosh and felt hat which vividly recalled those dreary times!
I have left until last the r81e of Anne Frank herself. Anne's
This is a moving theme, even a childhood and early adolescence were harrowing one, and the most ITEmora- passed in hiding and her perpetual ble feature the production was that cheerfulness and optimism affected her such young actors had clearly (and, in companions in different ways: for cases, surprisingly !) understood some, she greatly aided their morale, something of the horror and inhumanity while for others she was irritating and of the Occupation. The stages which immature. ,411 her experiences are the Dutch Jews were progressively recorded in her diary, from the petty humiliated, deprived of their pleasures, squabbles of people too long in each their conveniences, their jobs, their other's company to her first, and, alas, homes and finally their lives, were last, feelings of love. It is difficult to ickeningl~evident as the play express in cold print how well Natalie ed, and the actors portrayed the reac- Wofford conveyed all this, and more. tions of the various members of the Her performance as Anne not only held family - fatalistic, optimistic, defiant - the whole play together but was deeply with great sympathy. moving in itself. The audiences were
The Chorus, representing now conscious of having assisted at someoppressors and now oppressed, were thing rather more important than a runalert and well-disciplined, though it was of-the-mill 'school play'. not always immediately clear which hat ~h,programme listed those backthey were wearing. were stage (some of them Fourth Formers) led' by Bonnie Posselt and Ben Hum- whose contributions to the success of phrey, whose demeanour, costumes and the production were in their way as make-up chillingly suggested the SS. great as those of the cast. MJP was in
The principal players were all charge, and we should thank him and impressive. Guy Potter and Lee Rennie his whole team for an evening which were the van Daans: the latter in sometimes disturbed as well as enterparticular showed how one member of tained. a group in hiding can by selfishness endanger the whole enterprise. Christo-
This has been a memorable year for music at The King's School. From the House Music Competition in October to the music for King's Day, performances consistently reached the highest standards, and a committed, very able group of senior pupils made the music staff'swork a positive joy.
performances of two string orchestra favourites - Purcell's Chacony in g minor and Pachelbel's Canon - from the Chamber Orchestra. The preceding Keys Society Concert was heard by a smaller than usual audience, so two outstanding choral performances from that concert were given repeat performances. They were Freddie Feelgood from the Magnificent Seven and Anders Edenroth's extremely taxing Chilli con Carne sung by the Keys Choir; Alastair Brookshaw expertly directed both performances. The School Choir sang arrangements of California Dreamin', Lennon
We were pleased to welcome Andrew Bird, Director of Music at Bromsgrove School, to adjudicate the House Music Competition on Monday, 20th October 1997. The morning's solo events were more tightly packed with fine performances than ever. Elizabeth Lewis (violin) won the Junior Competition with an impassioned performance of the Meditation from Thai.~ by Massenet, closely followed by Julia Guy (violin) and Lorna Pritchard (soprano). Violinists also took pride of place in the Senior Competition with Shulah Oliver taking first place with her virtuoso playing of Kreisler's Variations on a Theme of Corelli. Robert Webb (violin) and Jenny Pearce (flute)took second and third places. The Houses had worked especially hard to produce a feast for the eyes as well as the ears of the audience in the Song Competition. Chappel's American Pie, conducted and trained by Alastair Brookshaw was the undisputed winner, and a hard act for future years to follow. In second and third places were Creighton and School, the latter being especially notable for their unaccompanied performance of John Davenport's Fever. An appreciative audience at the Winners' Concert heard all these performances, and more, later in the week.
The School Concert on Thursday, 27th November began with an exhilarating performance from an enthusiastic Second Orchestra of three movements from Handel's Water Music. James Rae's Sapphire was elegantly swung by the Jazz Group and followed by high voltage
and McCartney's It's Only Love and Seventy-Six Trombones as well as Samuel Barber's Sure on this Shining Night. Highlight of a fine concert was a performance of Max Bruch's G minor Violin Concerto in which the First Orchestra accompanied soloist Robert Webb. Robert's playing was assured and musical, making for a splendid end to the concert.
Soon after the November concert. many of the school's musicians were involved on stage, or in the accompanying band, in the school production of The Boyfriend, which is reviewed elsewhere. Barely had their feet left the stage for the final curtain call when many of those same performers were to be found singing in the School Carol Service, held in the cathedral on Friday, 19th December. Carols sung were Judith Weir's Illuminare, Jerusalem, Philip Ledger's arrangement of the Sussex Carol, Andrew Carter's Sweet was the Song the Virgin Sang (sung by the Cathedral Choristers),Pierre Villette's Hymne a La Vierge (sung by the Keys Choir), Stephen Cleobury's arrangement of Joys Seven and
Samuel Scheidt's In Dulci Jubilo. This was to be our last opportunity to enjoy Ray Johnston's ever-reliable organ playing; he ended with an impressive performance of Messiaen's Dieu Parmi Nous. Ray, a member of the music teaching staff for the past six years and Cathedral Assistant Organist left soon after to take up his new post as Director of Music at Kent College. We wish him and Jacqui every success in Canterbury, and are grateful for all their hard work in the department.
Mock exams and Modular A Level exams took their toll of rehearsals in the first month of the short Spring Term 1998. It was a testimony to the considerable ability of the core of our school musicians that we were able to mount two concerts and a Cathedral Choral Evensong as preparation for the Music Department's Easter Concert Tour to Tuscany. On February 4th, as part of an M.E.B. sponsored venture, we gave a Lunchtime Concert at the Huntingdon Hall. Lydia Brookes and Tom Mawby were soloists in Bach's Concerto for Oboe and Violin, accompanied by the Chamber Orchestra. This was followed by a Wind Quintet (Shulah Oliver, Lydia Brookes, Allan Clayton, Alastair Brookshaw and Anna Myers) playing a Polka and Rumba by Dennis Agay, and a String Quartet (Robert Webb, Tom Mawby, Shulah Oliver and Lorna Pritchard) performing the last movement of Dvorak's American Quartet. The Magnificent Seven sang What I did for Love and Tears in Heaven, and the concert ended with every performer involved in Haydn's Little Organ Mass. This was especially notable for Cathedral Head Chorister David Newsholme's wonderfully mature singing of the long Benedictus solo, a feat he was to repeat to great acclaim three more times in Italy.
The School Concert on Tuesday, 24th March began with the First Orchestra playing Schubert's Symphony no. 8 in B minor (Unjinished). Other items included Tippett's Steal Away, Peter Philips' Ecce Vicit Leo and Mozart's Missa Brevis in F, K. 192, performed by the Chamber Choir, and movements from Vaughan Williams song cycle, On Wenlock Edge, sung by Alastair Brookshaw with string quartet and piano accompaniment.
Choral Evensong, sung in Worcester Cathedral by the choir going to Tuscany, gave an opportunity to rehearse Buxtehude's Magnificat, Burgon's Nunc Dimittis and Bruckner's Christus Factus Est. Organist for the occasion was Chris Hand, who had joined the department for the term following Ray Johnston's departure. We were very grateful to him for all his hard work, especially on behalf of GCSE and A Level candidates. Chris was also our organist for the Italian Concert Tour. This receives a separate review elsewhere in the magazine, but suffice it to say here that the concerts on that tour were possibly the finest that I had been involved with in my teaching career.
A select group of musicians gave a fine Lunchtime Concert at Birmingham Cathedral on Friday, 8th May. Performances included movements from Dvorak's American Quartet, Vaughan Williams' On Wenlock Edge and songs sung by Zoe Harrison, Tom Mawby and Robert Webb. Lydia Brookes (oboe) played Saint-Saens' Introduction and Allegro, and Shulah Oliver (violin) played Kreisler's Variations on a Theme of Corelli.
Earlier in the year, Shulah Oliver had been awarded second prize in a Young Musicians' Competition sponsored by The English Speaking Union. Alan Uren (violin), one of our younger music scholars, was awarded third prize at the competition held in Worcester's Huntingdon Hall. Very recently, a year later, Shulah deservedly won the first prize of two hundred and fifty pounds in the same competition.
Squashed in just as the next round of public exams was starting, the Summer Term Concert featured an impressive performance of Bach's St. John Passion, sung in German. The School Choir, joined by senior cathedral choristers and an indefatigable small group of parents, excelled itself in characterising the varied moods of the chorales and choruses. David Barry (Evangelist), Ian Bell (Christus), Marie-Claire Brookshaw (soprano), Stephen Shellard (alto), Alastair Brookshaw (tenor) and Tom Hunt (bass) were an excellent team of soloists. The orchestra, led by Robin Thurlby, was formed from pupils, OVs, school staff, instrumental teachers and friends. Jenny Howlett (flute) and Alan Uren (violin) supplied particularly noteworthy pupil instrumental obbligati.
Joining us for his first KSW concert was Daniel Phillips, the new Cathedral Assistant Organist, who, with Claire Harrison (cello), underpinned the whole ensemble with his skilful harpsichord continuo. We are very pleased to welcome Daniel from Uppingham School, where he was formerly Organist and Head of Academic Music.
In the last week of the Summer Term an encouragingly large and enthusiastic audience celebrated the farewell concert of The Magnificent Seven, KSW's close harmony group, founded and directed by Alastair Brookshaw. In a ninety minute tour de,force, the group, which has so enhanced school concerts for the last two years, gave us a feast of their favourites, old and new, including Seaside Rendezvous, Good Old Fashioned Lover Boy and American Pie. As well as all their school appearances, the group also sang at many venues outside the
During the year, the school has been most fortunate to benefit from the very generous bequests of two OVs, Paul Woodhouse and Charles Myers. Remembering the musical fulfilment he had experienced as a boy at KSW, Paul Woodhouse made provision in his will for money to be spent on the school's music. The munificence of the £6,000 gift enabled us to buy a very fine Yamaha grand piano for the main music room in School House, and we are very grateful to Paul Woodhouse for remembering us so magnificently.
Charles Myers contacted the school just over a year ago, offering a considerable part of his library of music books and scores to the Music Department in the event of his death. I spent a most interesting day with him and his wife at their home in Clitheroe, examining his library, which filled much of the ground floor of the house (or what was left of it after taking into
school, including Hartlebury Castle for the W.I. and St. Richard's Hospice. This has been farewell to a remarkable group of U6th singers, Alastair Brookshaw, Ceredig Cattanach-Chell, Tom Mawby and Robert Webb, but we hope that the remaining singers, Sam Bayliss, Allan Clayton, Tom and Sam Dupernex, will be successful in reforming the group.
Nor were these the only exceptional U6th musicians, for this was a year group whose musicians excelled in every way, academically, in performance and in cheerful, wholehearted commitment to the school,^ music. Above all they generated musical performance, as attendance at last year's superb Keys' Concerts showed. It was impressive that the A Level music pupils, Lydia Brookes, Tom Mawby, Anna Myers and Robert Webb, all gained A grades, but quite remarkable that Robert was awarded a Certificate of Excellence, signifying one of Oxford Board's three highest marks for the exam nationwide. Congratulations also to Robert and Alastair Brookshaw, who have both achieved their Choral Scholarships at Christ's and Trinity Colleges, Cambridge respectively.
account the two grand pianos, the harpsichord and an electronic organ the size of whose console was almost the equal of that in Liverpool Anglican Cathedral!). I was also entertained by his fund of youthful reminiscences. These included memories of his time in the choir under Sir Ivor Atkins, his lessons with Edgar Day, Three Choirs' performances under Elgar's baton, experiences as an articled pupil of Herbert Sumsion at Gloucester and his cinema organ playing at the Gaumont (now the bingo hall near Foregate Street Station!). At the time Charles Myers was weakened by recent illness, but this did nothing to reduce the gentle acerbity of his wit or the acuteness of his observations. It is a great shame that his unexpected death only two months later robbed Worcester Cathedral Choir Association of the chance to record these stories, as they could have filled a substantial part of a sequel to their recently published Worcester Cathedral Choir Memoirs. The school will, much sooner than I would have ever expected, have a resource that will be of use not only to pupils, but also to organists who might wish to consult his vast collection of organ music, much of it now out of print. It was very good to meet his widow, Rowena, again at the recent OV Dinner, and we extend our sympathies to her in her recent loss.
D.E.B.
T-e year started with sixty five nervous new children gathered on the playground with a larger
number of new parents watching equally nervously as they and their offspring embarked on, what was hoped by all to be, a long and distinguished career at King's. By 3:45pm the nerves were no more and parents were relieved by the apparent confidencethat their children displayed after only one day. This is a very simplistic analysis of how quickly new children settle in but it can generally be considered to be true. Yes, there are one or two difficulties which have to be ironed out; the bus is an awesome prospect for a new young child to cope with at the end of a busy day and some of the younger children find the new experiences tiring to begin with. But on the whole, September 4th passed by smoothly for them and they went home looking forward to September 5th. Such is the spirit of the Junior School and the 182 children who attend it.
Yet again it has been a remarkably busy year with everybody - pupils, staff and parents all throwing themselves with great enthusiasm into the life of the school. There has been something for everyone; every child has had an opportunity to shine, to be special -even famous for five minutes - at some stage in the year. We pride ourselves on our academic successes but not every one is destined for academia. Individual success comes to each child in different ways; it may be in the field of music, drama, sport, art or any of the wide range of activities on offer. There is, we hope, something for everyone at King's.
This year we were particularly pleased with our academic successes. We gained six academic scholarships into the Fourth Forms. These were awarded to RebeccaJane Bader, Lucy Studd, Laura Hughes, Edward Hardy, Harry Jackson and Laura Brown. Hollie Willetts also won an academic scholarship to St Mary's Convent. A Music Scholarship was also awarded to Patrick Carslake who actually progressed into the Fourth Forms twelve months previously but a year ahead of himself. The competition among our own pupils for these coveted awards is very strong and there were a dozen more who only just missed out. They will have further opportunities to prove themselves at thir-
Music plays a significant role in the life of the school and I am notjust referring to the tireless efforts of the choristers. More than half of the pupils play an instrument and receive private lessons from the host of peripatetic teachers who visit us regularly. Some of those pupils find time to learn a second instrument. The children are actively encouraged to pursue a musical interest as the disciplines involved help them far beyond the music lesson. On Mondays we had regular volunteer recitals in the chapel during Assembly while the occasional Informal Concerts in the chapel were held on Friday afternoons. For some this was a first opportunity for public display and it acted as an icebreaker for the various more formal musical events held during the year. These included two major concerts in College Hall. Each year these concerts seem to improve on the previous ones. There seems to be no limit to the musical talents of our young people and much of the credit for such outstanding performances must go to HRT, VG and BW for their work with choirs (girls, boys and mixed), the orchestra, string group and windband. Two pupils are worthy of individual recognition for their musical achievements. David Hardwick, a chorister, has attained Grade 4 Piano, Grade 6 Violin and Grade 5 Singing while Anna Byrne has made equally outstanding progress in piano (Grade 6), clarinet (Grade 5) and 'cello (Grade 3).
Drama has been particularly innovative and successful this year. In November we tookpart in the first I.A.P.S. Drama Festival at Bilton Grange School near Rugby. This was a non-competitive event. Our contribution was JW's adaptation of the children's book 'The Magician and the Sorcerer'. It was an event well supported by parents and enjoyed by all concerned. Most notable performances were given by Guy Corbett (Mel-
ric the Magician), Philip Arnold (Emperor), Lara Fisher (Mertel the Witch) and Benedict Maxwell (Sondrak the Sorcerer).
During the Summer Term we staged a production of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' in the gardens of 12B College Green. This was a particularly ambitious production, not least because of the dreadful summer we were experiencing. However, the fairies looked favourably upon us, and it did not rain once during the three evening performances. The ambient atmosphere of the established sunken gardens leant themselves wonderfully to the play and the children provided three memorable evenings for all those who attended. It is always difficult to pick out individuals but on this occasion the following must be mentioned for their contributions:- Lara Fisher (Titania), George Clarke (Oberon), Elizabeth Pearson (Puck), Guy Corbett (Quince), Benedict Maxwell (Bottom) and James Carey (Flute). FMG and JW are to be congratulated for their direction.
Drama colours were awarded to Guy Corbett, Philip Arnold, Benedict Maxwell, Lara Fisher, Elizabeth Pearson and
Mid.~unzinerNi,qlzt'.r Dream: Alistair Bird and teen. avid Hardwick l
James Carey. George Clarke received a special commendation, as he was still only a First Year when he played his challenging role. We hope to see much more of him on stage in his remaining two years in the Junior School.
It is notjust the talented few who get an opportunity to act or to express themselves publicly. Every Friday throughout the term each form takes an assembly. These are full of initiative, frequently innovative and never dull. They are often the place where initial acting talent is spotted.
Turning to sport, we have had rather mixed fortunes. Importantly though, the policy of organising A, B and sometimes even C fixtures at both Under 11 and Under 10 levels has ensured that more children than ever have had the opportu-nity of representing the school on the sports field. Thriving Inter-House competition has ensured additional widespread opportunity for most.
Of the boys' teams the rugby team achieved most success. It took some time for the team to gel but towards the end of the Autumn Term they were producing some excellent rugby and finished with a winning season. The football team suffered from a lack of practice as the flooding of the river early in the term meant the pitches were unplayable for some time. Cricket probably suffered the most with permanently damp pitches and rather too many matches affected by the deplorable summer.
The U1 1 Girls had a remarkable year in all their sports. They were unbeaten at netball and only lost one hockey fixture. Similar results were achieved in round-
ers. There was a great deal of skill and a tremendous spirit amongst the girls both on and off the field of play. They played with and for each other, displaying a gritty determination at all times. They were never overawed by the opposition and always believed they could win. Much credit must be given to CW and NRA for their achievements this year.
Swimming has gone from strength to strength. For the past two years we have had a twice-weekly swimming squad practice for the more able swimmers coached by Mrs Vivienne Hewitt and CAA. In the last twelve months the fruits of this labour are beginning to show with successes in galas at all levels. We are now able to compete on an equal footing with many of our neighbours, and that too breeds
success. It was the girls who achieved the greatest accolade when they reached the finals of the IAPS National Championships at Millfield School in Somerset. This was a first for King's and although they did not win they were inspired by their experiences.
We offer many co-educational sports too and we have had successes in orienteering and cross-country. DM produced a very capable orienteering team who won the West Midlands Schools' Championships and were runners-up in the National Schools' Score Championships at Wigan. We hope to go one better next year. As a result of the increasing profile of orienteering in the school the Develovment Committee kindly provided kit and equipment for the team.
The facilities around school do not lend themselves very well to cross-country training; as it is much too flat. To compensate for this JW took a group training on the Old Hills at Callow End throughout the winter. Teams were entered for the Abberley Relay and the St Richard's Festival. Both courses were gruelling and the benefits of our training were apparent. No medals were won at Abberley but we were rather more successful at St Richard's. The boys performed well but once again, it was the girls who came home with top honours; Lauren Wood and Sophie Le Marchand coming home first and second respectively. The remaining girls also performed well enough for the girls' team to pick up the team prize.
In addition there have been frequent other opportunities both at weekends and
Midsummer Night's Dream: The Fairies - Rebecca Bader, E~nnza
Baldrey and Kate Fulton
hoped that she and Richard would return to future Reunions as OVs. We were pleased to see from far back Thomas Higginson (S. 27-33) and from far away [New Zealand] Norman Holden (S. 50-58). We were also pleased to see Mrs Rowena Myers, widow of the late Charles Myers (OV) who had made a very valuable bequest to his old School.
The dinner commenced with Grace said by Mark Dorsett. All seemed to go very well, in spite of the logistical problems presented to the caterers as there are no kitchen facilities in the Hall itself. The Toast of The School was proposed with obvious pleasure and affection by Donald Leonard (Ca. 47-52), Vice-President, and the Headmaster replied. He did so with such ease and skill it was difficult to believe Tim Keyes had been in office for only a matter of days and was at his first Reunion. He praised John Moore for leaving the School in such excellent condition and thanked him for doing so much to make the changeover as smooth as possible. He and Mary Anne had received a warm welcome from all with whom they had so far come in contact, and one feature of the School they had noted was the involvement and commitment of all connected with King's.
The Headmaster reported a good year with many successes, academic, sporting and extra-curricular; girls rowing had been particularly good, even though it was a very young sport at King's. But the rugby crown, held for a long run of years, had been surrendered to the 'Other End of Town'.
Sir Christopher Benson replied to the Toast of the Guests. He delivered a truly polished speech detailing some of his experiences on the way to success, a knighthood, and continuing success. It had not been an easy road; he recounted with a little humour some of the wrong turnings and blind alleys on the way. An early job had been with a firm of local auctioneers, as an assistant; one day the auctioneer said to the assembled buyers: "Here gentleman you see before you Mr Benson, his feet planted firmly on the bottom rung of the ladder to success in life where he is no doubt destined to remain." How wrong he was!
The President rounded off the formal part of the evening with particular thanks to Richard Underwood for arranging and overseeing everything to do with the Reunion Dinner.
At the Cathedral Eucharist many OVs were present in the congregation. The readings were by retiring President, Ray Franklin, and the sermon was preached by the School Chaplain. Mark Dorsett took as his theme the story of 'The Unjust Steward' (Luke xvi), examining its relevance for today in a thought provoking way.
In the Congregation was David Annett (Headmaster 59-79), and after the Service he was pleased to meet Tim Keyes and wish him well for the future. As the Headmaster who had introduced girls to King's (in 1971) David Annett was also pleased to meet Jenny Pearce and offer his congratulations to her.
Following the Cathedral Service Tim and Mary Anne Keyes hosted a very convivial 'At Home', ably assisted by their two sons Sam and Bill; we thank them all for their hospitality. Many who had been at the Cathedral attended, afterwards moving down to the School Field to watch the OV rugby match, refereed by Mike Stevens (Hon OV).
OV RUGBYMATCH
On a very warm Sunday afternoon two OV Rugby teams took part in the annual fixture. One team was largely made up of the previous year's 1st XV, the other of older and wiser OVs. The game was fastflowing and played in a good spirit. With five minutes to go the teams were level at 29-29, but two late tries by the old hands made the final score 39-29.
OLDVIGORNIANS'CRICKETCLUB:
1948 - 1998
50th Anniversary Celebrations
The 1993 season was the 50th Anniversary of The Old Vigornians' Cricket club in its present form. Records show that cricket fixtures between the OV club and the School were played in the later years of the last century. However, it was in 1947 that a master at the School, L.M. (Bill) Bailey was the driving force behind the formation of the OVCC; regular weekend fixtures commenced in 1948.
To celebrate the anniversary, the Club held a cricket week in August, followed by a dinner at the County Ground, Worcester. Before describing the celebrations, it is worth recalling the prevailing conditions in those early years.
The Second World War had ended only two years previously. Rationing was still in force and special permits had to be obtained from the Ministry of Food to buy tea, milk, sugar and the other ingredients required for a cricket tea. Cars and, indeed, fuel were in short supply and public transport was often used to get to opponents' grounds - in fact, car ownership almost certainly guaranteed a place in the team!
The early days of a fledgling cricket club are, by definition, difficult. The OVCC was no exception and experienced the usual problems of obtaining fixtures and ensuring eleven players took the field. Dashing up to School on the morning of a match and persuading boarders to play for the Club was a regular occurrence. Opponents in 1948 included Grasshoppers, Malvern, NALGO, Rushwick, Pale Manor, Earls Croome and the Old Elizabethans.
Whilst some of the Clubs just mentioned are now no more, the Old Vigornians CC has gone from strength to strength. We now run one team on a Saturday (in a league) and two on a Sunday as well as an annual tour and odd mid-week games. An open invitation exists to all OVs, boys at School and masters, whatever your ability, to join the Club and build on the firm foundations that already exist.
Returning to the celebrations, all games in the cricket week were keenly contested and several could have gone either way. In the best weather of a poor summer, notable contributions were made by Dan Wheeler (102* and 83*) with half centuries from Anthony Gillgrass, Nick Sproson, Ross Haines, Mark Thompson and Jamie Mackie. Five wicket hauls were obtained by two impressive younger players, Nick DaleLace and Jabbar Riaz, whilst two veteran OVs, Bill Jones and Robin Vincent, rolled back the years with telling performances. A total of nearly fifty OVs, past and present. played in the week in a spirit that was a credit to the game. A summary of the results follow:
10 August 1998 - 16 August 1998
OVs v. HEADMASTER'S XI
ovs 153
(R. Haines 45, J. Panter 32, N. Dale-Lace 5-58) Headmaster's XI 155-5 (M. Stevens 39)
OVs v. WORCESTERCLUBAND GROUND
Worcs. C & G 300-7 dec. (D. Catterell 115) OVs 185-7 (A Gillgrass 45, T. Morris 30)
OVs v. WORCESTERGENTLEMEN
OVs 202-8 dec.
(D. Wheeler 102*, R. Vincent 4-40) Worcs. Gents. 205-5
(A. Lewis 102*, P. Southall 42, J. Riaz 5-63)
OVs v. WRGS OLDBOYSXI
OVs 263 (A. Gillgrass 69, N. Sproson 52, R. Dow 49, D. Walker 4-41)
WRGS Old BOYS268-7
(M. Taylor 48, C.Eyers 41, N.Davies 41")
OVs v. OV EXILESXI
OVs 21 3-7 dec.
(R. Haines 62, R. Wilkes 37)
OV Ex~les217-3
(M. Thompson 52, J. Mack~e51*, C. Cole 45, W.F Jones 38*, A. Harris 3-40)
I OVs v. OV PRESIDENT'S XI
l OVs 204-4 dec.
(D. Wheeler 83*, J. Wadley 44, D. Mendham 39)
I OV President's XI 205-7
I (M. Richardson 44*, P. Mackie 40*, T. Heyes 322)
Following a barbecue at the Ground on the Friday evening, the anniversary dinner held on Saturday 15th August 1998 was attended by over one hundred OVs, their partners and guests. Guests of honour were Mr and Mrs John Pimley and Mr and Mrs Walter Cullis, founder members and officers of the Club. Other guests included Mrs Jane Southall, Mr Ray Franklin, OV Association President and Mrs Franklin, Mr and Mrs Jack Figgett (Broadway CC) and Mr Paul Booton (Bewdley CC). Old Vigornians present at the dinner who played during the first decade of the Club's existence included Messrs Ray Godsall, Bill Jones, Chris Wood, Peter Bourne, Trevor Burgess, Alec Mackie, David Cook, Mike O'Neill, Ken Workman, Brian Wilkes, Mike Dudley, Nigel Jones, Barrie Maxwell, Louis Wadley and John Haywood. We were also pleased to renew acquaintance with two former masters in charge of cricket at School and OVCC members Messrs Colin Gray and Peter Petherbridge.
Mr Jim Panter, OVCC Chairman, welcomed the guests. He paid special tribute to Messrs Pimley and Cullis, thanking them for their early efforts and then made a presentation to them and their wives to commemorate the occasion. The Chairman also thanked the Headmaster for allowing us to use the best ground we play on, the OV Club for their generous donation
towards the costs of the anniversary, the groundsman, Mr Phil Tyrrell for his skilled and unstinting efforts on our behalf, and, of course, the many tealadies for their tireless contribution down the years.
In an amusing speech, Mr Alec Mackie toasted the Club. He recalled the special qualities of L.M. (Bill) Bailey, now sadly deceased, both as a Master and as a lover of the noble game. No mean contributor himself during his playing career, Alec paid tribute to the part played by Bill Jones in the development of our fixture list and his single-handed efforts in successfully raising money for the pavilion extension in 1966. He also thanked Tony Harris for continuing this tradition of dedication to the Club in his dual r61e of Hon. Treasurer and Bar Secretary. On a more sober note, tribute was paid to the late Mike Southall, a wonderful cricketer and wit, loved by all who knew him. Mr Mackie thanked Jane for being with us on an occasion that must have brought back sad memories. He concluded by congratulating the Saturday team for winning its leagues in the past two seasons and to the continued health and prosperity of the Club.
Mr Jack Figgett (Broadway CC) responded. He recalled several of the doughty contests that we had been involved in over the years, including several amusing anecdotes. He congratulated the Club on achieving its 50th anniversary and hoped that we would continue to play the game in the spirit for which we have earned a deserved reputation for fair play and good comradeship.
After a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable week it remains to thank all Club Members who made a contribution, whether playing in or organising the celebrations. It is to be hoped that many who attended will be around to celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2048!
GOLF
Thirty-five Old Vigornians played at Droitwich Golf Club in perfect golfing weather and for the first time there was a lady OV - Kate Brooks (n6e Annable, 79-8 1).
Twenty-three played a nine hole medal round in the morning and the full contingent of 35 contested an 18hole stableford competition in the afternoon. Handicaps ranged from 8 to 28 and our oldest competitor, Norman Backwood left School in 1937.
Far from being male chauvinists the 'old boys' stood aside in the afternoon competiton as Kate took first prize with 36 points. At the dinner in the evening the Club President, Ray Franklin, presented various prizes. Apart from Kate, prizes were won by:
Sam Meredith (45-50) Runner-up in afternoon
Nigel Jones (49-54) Best front nine
Martyn Pellew (62-66) Best back nine
Rob O'Neill (82-89)
Longest drive
Tony Phillips (4 1-47) Nearest the pin
Gareth Hall ((67-77) Hidden holes
Mike Dudley (5 1-59) Surprise
Rob Blakeway (48-55) Winner in morning
Daniel Money (80-85) Runner-up in morning
The golf day is now firmly established as part of the reunion weekend with well over 50 on the mailing list. Next year's meeting will be held at the Worcester Golf and Country Club on Friday, 17th September. Anyone interested should contact Michael O'Neill, Rookwood, Worcester Road, Ombersley, Worcs. WR9 OEY, Telephone - 01905 620256.
MICHAELO'NEILL
The following are to be congratulated on their academic successes; there may well be others, but we can report only those of which we have had notice.
Victoria Bentley (S 91-93): A First in English Literature & German at Cardiff (97); Victoria won the Sir Julian Hodge prize in English and the Marike Gilespie prize for German. She went on to win a British Academy Studentship for her MA.
Michael Brookes (Br 85-95): A First in Medical Science at Nottingham, Michael followed up with the award of a University Exhibition for Medicine.
Liam Chivers (W 85-94) Liam gained a first in Psychology at the University of Wales, Swansea in 1997.
Amanda C. Elkin (CO91-93): A First in Clinical Sciences at Imperial College School of Medicine.
James Fawcett (S 85-94): Jim is completing the final year of his degree and recently won the RAeS Award for the Best Aeronautical Engineering Student in the UK.
Matthew Fleming (OS 87-94): A First in History at Leeds University.
Gary Hemming (W 89-95): A First in Physics at Christ's College, Cambridge.
Judith Juhasz (Br 93-95): A First in Biomedical Materials Science and Engineering at Queen Mary and Westfield College, London.
Christopher Preston (W 83-91): Christopher graduated from Bristol Dental School in 97 at the top of his class, winning the British Dental Association Medal and prizes in Paediatric & Prosthetic Dentistry.
Kathryn Pugh (W 93-95): A First in English at Emmanuel College, Cambridge.
James Roslington (Cr 85-95): Senior Scholarship and a First in History (Part One) at Trinity College, Cambridge.
Sarah Andrews (Co. 84-85) to Sarah & Jonathan Wooley on 15 May 1998 a son Alexander Charles Frederick, a brother to Robert.
Fiona Armitage (E. 86-88) to Fiona & Douglas Tullis on 3 November 1997 at Livinstone, West Lothian, a son Jamie Macleod
C.R. Bennett (Ca. 77-84) to Christopher & Zephyrine on 13 August 1998 at Bedford Hospital a son Maximilian Dudley James.
Dr N. Boyle (Cr. 54-63) to Nicholas & Rosemary Angela on l l June 1996 at Cambridge a daughter Angela Margaret, a sister to Rose and Elizabeth Doran.
R. Coley (Br. 83-90) to Ross & Kate on 8 January 1998 at Wordsley Hospital a son Elliot Ross a brother for Maria Susanna.
Emma Douglas (Co. 83-85) to Emma & Simon Hammett on 19 July 1998 a daughter Eleanor Victoria Elizabeth who weighed in at 8lbs 50z.
A.G. Mackelvie (Br. 77-84) to Andrew & Diane on 16 April 1998 at Worcester a daughter Victoria Greenlees.
Carolyn McNamara (Co. 82-84) to Carolyn & Christopher Burnett on 28 March 1998 a son Joe Christian; they are currently living in Hale, Cheshire.
Sarah Hughes (Co. 81-83) to Sarah & Paul Mark on 24 August 1998 a first child Thomas James Philip.
Hilary Lewis, Mrs Maj (Co. 77-79) to Hilary and Tom a son, Joseph Edward on 12 August 1998 at the Instytut Matki i Dziecka, Warsaw, a brother for Julia and Marek.
Elizabeth J. North (Co. 82-84) to I Liz [now Mrs Elliott] on 13 May 1998 a daughter Laura Elizabeth, a sister to Thomas.
Josephine C. North (Co. 85-87) to Josephine [now Mrs Hughes] on 22 June 1997 a son Will.
Kate E. Ogden (Co. 81-83) to Kate [now Mrs Mythen] in April 1998 in London a daughter Alice Victoria, a sister for Patrick and Charlotte.
Sally V. Ogden (Co. 84-86) to Sally [now Mrs Themans] on 8 November 1997 at Bridgenorth a son Giles Patrick, a brother for Harriet Anna.
R.M. Roe (Cl. 80-87) to Richard & Debra on 4 September 1997 at Worcester a daughter Charlotte Emily; her godfather is Fanos Hira (Br. 80-87).
Sarah F.L.Talbot (Co. 77-79) to Sarah [now Mrs Payne] on 13 June 1997 a son Patrick Mark.
C.D.J. Taylor (S. 75-80) to David & Sabine in February 1998 a son Sam, brother to Teresa (born Oct. 94); they live in Dortmund, Germany.
MARRIAGES
Alison's bridesmaid was her sister Alison Nott (Co. 8 1-83) to Alexander Katie (E. 88-90); ushers were Andrew Turner on 9 August 1998. Alison is an
Charles Annable to Julia Simcock Duncan (OS. 85-90), Andrew Under- actor-tutor and Alexander a 'fellow on 27 December 1997 at St Peter's wood (S. 77-87), Fanos Hira (Br. 80- thespian'. Alison is the daughter of Mrs Church, Bromyard. An all OV wedding 87), Tom Preston (H. 82-87) and Margaret Nott. [Charles (Cl 78-88), Julia (CO85-87)]. Hamish Mackenzie.
Rachael Oeppen (Co. 85-87) to Lindsey Matthews (Cl. 8 1-87) was Peter Brennan on 25 Julv best man with Lucy Carter (Co. 8587) and Sue Thompson (E. 90-92) as bridesmaids; the guest list included a large number of OVs.
Marcus S. Bullock (W. 74-81) in August 1998 to Kathryn Muriel Nott at St Mary's Church, Abberley.
Juliet H. Collins (Co. 89-91) to Nicky Piper in August 97. They are now living in Cardiff.
Stuart N. Conyers(Br 82-90) to Rebecca Grinnall (E 88-90) (picture above) on 30 May 1998 at St John the Baptist Church, Hagley. An all OV wedding [Stuart (Br. 83-90), Rebecca (E. 88-90)]. OVs attending were best man Richard Tomlinson (Cl. 83-90), & bridesmaid Catriona Mackenzie (E. 88-90), with ushers Aidan Thompson (Cl. 80-901, Ross Coley (B. 83-90), Martin Campbell (Cl. 83-90) and Ben Grinnall (W. 83-93).
W.E.W. Coomber (Ch. 8 1-91) to Rebecca Jackson on 1 March 1997 at St Mary's Church, Reigate. Philip O'Neill (W. 82-91) & Andrew Whittaker (W. 89-9 1) were ushers.
Emma Douglas (Co. 83-85) to Simon Hammett on 20 July 1996 at Atkins Manor, South Cerney, Glos. Among the guests were Susan Cole (Co. 83-85) [now Mrs Hill] and Nick Owen (Cl. 75-85).
Iain Stuart Duncan to Alison Mackenzie on 19 September 1998. An all OV wedding, [Iain (OS. 77-87), Alison (E. 86-88)]. Stuart's best man was Simon Thompson (K. 82-87) and
James D. Eaves (Cl. 83-93) to Rebecca Catherine Hardy (picture above) of Whitby at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Exeter on 26 July 1997. Richard Jones (K.) was best man and William Carslake (Cl. ) was organist.
Lisa Edwards (Co. 87-89) to Nicholas Bates on 23 August 1997 at Westbury-on-Severn. They are currently living at 136 Worcester Rd Droitwich. Andrea B. Graves (Co. 85-87) to Captain Richard Taylor [Life Guards] on 2 May 1998 at Bosbury Church. Sue Young (Co. 85-87) was a bridesmaid and John Bowley (Cl. 77-87) sang at the service.
Tom P. Howell (Cr. 87-92) to Lucie Purcell on 31 May 1998 at Totnes, Devon. Best man was Jon Hulme (8592) with ushers James Howell (Cr. 7984) & John Howell (Br. 79-84); the bride was attended by Karen Purcell, Judith Howell (Co. 88-90) & Vicky Owen; guests included Ian Philp, Matt Griffiths, Lyndon Gomersall, Graham Duncan (all Cr. 87- 92), Jon Jameson (K. 87-92) & Brian Witherford (Cr. 90-92).
Clare Hurle (Co. 83-85) to Steven Madsen on 15 April 1998 at Storridge, Malvern.
Piers A.F. Letcher (S. 73-78) to Sarah E. Parkes (formerly of Melbourne, Australia) on 4 April 1998 in St Emilion, France. They continue to live in France.
Stephen W. Lord (W. 73-83) to Dr Laura Baines on 5 July 1997 at St Charles' Church, Newcastle-uponTyne. Edward Chidley (S. 76-83) was best man and Fiona Lord (Co. 84-85) a bridesmaid.
1998 at St Peter's Church. Martlcy. Katt Rrewin (Co. 85-87 J was a bridesmaid.
Sarah Proctor (Co. 899 1 ) to Darryl Hingham on l X July 1998 at St John's Church, Felbridgr. W Sussex. Clare Skinner (Co. 89-91 J was a guest.
J.J. Richardson (H. 8291) to Ruth Waters on 6 December 1997 at Twyning Church. Matthew Speirs (H. 86-91) was J-J's best man and ushers included Mark Everard (S. 86-92) & Richard Scriven (H. 86-91).
Helen Richmond (E. 87-89) to Tony Cribb on 23 May 1998. Sarah Walters (Co. 87-89) & Katie Richmond (Co. 87-89) were bridesmaids; the guest list included Rachel Chapman [now Mrs Heron], Kirsten Wrigley, Louise Richmond, Katherine Timbrell (all Co. 87-89) & Sarah Lumsden (E. 8789).
Ian T. Rogers (S. 75-82) to Suzannah R. Whorf of Michigan, USA on 9 May 1998 in Bermuda.
Mark D.A. Smith (Ch. 82-87) to Fabienne Beloeil on 9 November 1996 in Orjault, France. Mark and Fabienne live in Edinburgh.
Matthew Speirs to Rachael Draper on 8 August 1998 at Studley Parish Church. At their all OV wedding [Matthew (H. 86-91), Rachael (Co. 9092)] J.J. Richardson (H. 86-9 1 ) was best man and Mark Everard (S. 86-92) was MC; ushers included Murray Lythgo (H. 86-92) and Richard Scriven (H. 86-9 1).
M.A. Stevens (Hon OV) to Mrs Patricia Sanger (Hon OV) on 11 July, followed by a Service of Blessing in Worcester Cathedral on 12th July.
Andrew W. Underwood (S. 77-88) to Sophie Keevil on 27 September 1997 at St Michael's Church, Knighton-onTeme. Best man was Richard Tomlinson (Cl. 83-90); Andrew's four brothers were ushers, three of whom are OVs, Richard (Ch. 68-79), Mark (Cr. 7680), and James (S. 83-88).
R. J. Wilkes (W. 76-86) to Claire King (picture below) on I l th October 1997 at St.Stephen's Church, Worcester. Paul Statham (W. 77-86) was best man and Jurrien Heynen (OS. 79-86) an usher. Richard is the son of Brian E. Wilkes (43-49). The wedding guest list included a number of OVs.
accident in 1982 water bombing forest fires in the Yukon. Mrs Beauchamp much regrets the family link with King's now seems to have ended. He is survived by his widow, a son and a daughter.
J.G. Beavan (Ca. 26-28) on 16 December 1997. On leaving King's
Sarah H. Wright (E. 90-92) to Alistair Thomson on 1 August 1998 at Backwell Parish Church where her father John Wright (Cr. 57-65) is Rector.
DEATHS
Rosemary Annett (59-79) on 6 December 1996. Romey Annett, wife of David Annett (HM 59-69) was a major presence within the School for the whole of his headship, and an influence for good in the much wider community for all her adult life. Friends from many walks of life and all ages gathered in the Cathedral on 7 February 1997 to pay their respects to a very special woman. Widowed early in her first marriage she is survived by three children from that marriage and by David and their daughter, Rosamund. (See tribute below).
K.H.P. Beauchamp (H. 30-33), DSO & Bar, DFC on l l December 1996. Kennett Henry Penrith Beauchamp served as a pilot in RAF Bomber Command during World War 11. A Wing Commander, he completed three operational tours over Germany and was awarded the DSO & Bar and the DFC. After the War he was a pilot with BOAC for 25 years. Penrith was the second of three generations of the family to attend King's; his eldest son Simon (Hostel) was killed in a flying
John Gwynne ~eavancommenced a career in banking, at first locally and then in London where he was careful to see that he found accommodation close to the Bank's Sports Ground in Beckenham! He met and married his wife Moya there, in 1940. He was released by the Bank for war service and joined the Gordon Highlanders but was actually commissioned into the Royal Welch Fusiliers. The Regiment went into action shortly after D Day and John was with them for the rest of the European war; he was mentioned in despatches for his part in the campaign. After the War he resumed his career in banking moving to Washington, Sussex; he retired in 1971.
M.R. Craze (H.& DB 19-25) on 28 February 1998. Michael Romilly Craze was a schoolmaster through and through. He devoted the whole of his working life to teaching, mostly at Felsted School, where he became a greatly respected and loved institution. On retirement he moved back to Worcestershire and threw himself wholeheartedly into the running of the OV Club - very obviously a labour of love. Once again Michael became something of an institution: it was not possible to think of the Club without the name of Michael Craze springing to mind as well. As witnessed by the large number who crowded into Michael's beloved Whittington Church for his funeral and the large gathering at his Memorial Service in the Cathedral, many had great affection for a 'true gentleman'. He leaves a widow, Carol, and three sons, Alan, Peter and Robin. (See tribute below).
A.L. Flay (DB 22-30) on 27 January 1998. Allan Leonard Flay worked for Warks. County Council Surveyors' Dept after school and then Buckinghamshire CC. He joined the Territorial Army in 1938 and served during the War in the Royal Engineers; he saw
service in Iceland and India. After the War he went first to Lancashire CC and then Yorkshire (East Riding) CC. Allan took early retirement in 1973. He and his wife Kathleen had been regular visitors to France in recent years where their married son lives, and moved to Gloucestershire in 1994 to be near other family in Worcester. Allan Flay was a cousin of the late John C. Flay, at one time President of the OV Club.
P.D. Hutchison (DB 46-51) in 1998. Paul Hutchison pursued his career locally, mainly in teaching; he taught at the Bishop Perowne School and at one time was teaching a son of the Chairman of the OV Club, Roy Padden, with whom he had been at King's.
R.W. Jameson (S. 48-57), OBE, on 6 February 1998. Roger Jameson was a career soldier with the Worcestershire Regiment, retiring with the rank of colonel.
Rt. Revd. J.A.A. Maund (20-28), MC, CBE on 9 July 1998. John Maund spent a lifetime ministering to the spiritual needs of others. In a long and distinguished career in the Church he became Bishop of Lesotho before returning to England to continue his work until his 80s. He put the needs of others before those of himself at all times. (See tribute below).
H.M. Morgan (DB 24-28) died on 19 September 1998 in Andover Hospital. Milton Morgan was a farmer and established a nationally known herd of pedigree friesian cattle. He was very active in the farming community and at one time President of the Worcestershire NFU. He was dealt two cruel blows: a lifetimes's work was destroyed when Foot and Mouth disease swept through in 1967 and the herd had to be destroyed and his son, Nick, died suddenly at an early age shortly after he had taken over the running of the farm. He moved to Wiltshire to live near his daughter.
C.A. Myers (DB 35-39) on 27 February 1998. Charles Arthur Myers was a career musician, an organist and teacher of considerable standing. He bequeathed his extensive music library to the School. (See tribute below).
J.H.R. TrapC (S. 34-38) on 22 August 1998. John Henry Raymond TrapC spent most of his working life in the Special Branch where he was responsible for the security of the Royal Family and other VIPs. He was award-
ed the MBE for his work. After retiring John did not relax, but did a three year university course and got a degree in French. He was a very active OV and did much on the Committee for some years. His wife, Sophia, died before him; they had two sons, John and Norman, both OVs.
We record in this issue the passing of two people who stand as giants in the history of The King's School: Rosemary Annett and Michael Craze. Two different people who contributed to King's in very different ways, but one thing they did have in common: the tireless and selfless effort both put into their work, to the great benefit of the entire school community.
MRS ROSEMARY ANNETT
Romey Annett arrived at 14 College Green in 1959 ready to give support to her husband David, newly appointed as Headmaster, having been Headmaster of Marling School, Stroud. It soon became obvious that she not only stood behind him, in solid support, but alongside him, as a major force and influence within the school community in her own right. She continued to exert that influence for the two decades of David's headship, providing help, support, encouragement, leadership - whatever was required - to both groups and individuals; not least of those to whom she gave assistance were ovs.
tion of girls to the 6th Form at King'sa decision by David and the Governors which without doubt she would have influenced - Romey was ,truly in her element: she was by training a teacher, had been headmistress of a girls' school and had given up a promising career in that field to accompany David to Stroud and then to King's. With indomitable spirit she worked tirelessly to ensure the integration of girls in the early, difficult years and with great success: the pioneering work of those first years was to lead eventually to full coeducation at King's, which is a legacy that will endure. OVs of generations yet to come will have cause to be grateful to Romey Annett.
interview me at the same time and arranged a friend to drive me between them. I doubt that I ever thanked her. There are few rewards for the duties of a headmaster's wife, but I do not think we could have asked for a better volunteer housemaster.
Nicola Bradbear, (Ch. 71 - 73), another of the jirst girls to join King 'S writes:
But it was probably in the latter half of her stay at No l4 that Romey really came into her own. With the introduc-
Barbara Cookson, (H. 71 - 73),one of theJirst girls to join King's writes: When we were so few girls in the school, Mrs Annett kept a kindly eye on our best interests. In retrospect I think it is amazing how much she tolerated. She put up with us stamping up and down the stairs through her house. She also had the task of policing our dress sense. A quiet word would greet any too revealing garment. My bright green trousers with pink edging were fine but the thigh length pink suede boots with two inch platform soles were not. I am not sure whether she was more concerned about the ability of our teachers to concentrate on the subject in hand or it was just that two inch platform soles on wooden stairs make a nightmare of a noise. Our social skills were honed by a number of voluntary exercises. We learned how to behave at dinner parties by providing the female interest at the prefects' dinners. I organised games at choristers' parties and spent a pleasantly companionable time picking strawberries for some summer event. However, although I recollect my colleagues spending some time in the kitchen, I was always able to avoid that most hated of places myself. In a busy life she always had time to chat and ensure we were surviving the traumas of life in The King's School. It was Mrs Annett who took the trouble to come out to my house and convey the message that I was needed at Cambridge for an interview. We did not have a phone at the time. It was she who made the phone calls to arrange it so that I could get to both colleges who wanted to
Romey was a smiling and generous lady. I will remember her sitting at her kitchen table, dispensing home-made lemonade, soda bread, ginger biscuits. This was the place where we new girls were made to feel welcome. In retrospect, running 'Headmaster's House' cannot have been an easy job. From breakfast onwards visitors arrived: Romey's r61e of meeting and greeting never ended. Was there a day without visitors? Christmas was the busy season with choristers to tend to. Summer time brought the Festival, exam results, new pupils and parents. It is impossible to remember Romey without also being reminded of the friendly, warm and welcoming atmosphere that surrounded her.
Sue Cooke (ne'e Bomford), (Ca 7375), writes:
My first memories of Mrs Annett were of her telling us all that we had been specially selected for our character - whatever that meant. We five girls had our studies in the attic of the Annetts' house, but were placed in different Boarding Houses to act as a 'civilising influence' on the boys.
She had a wonderfully creative turn of phrase. One day I was returning to my study after a hard time 'civilising' when I was ambushed by Mrs. A. "How wonderful to see you at last Sue - I thought that you had eloped to Peru".
Janice A. Price (Ca. 75 - 77), writes:
Romey Annett was a generous person. She was naturally hospitable. A constant stream of people went through her home - 15 girls tramping in and out every day, and every Saturday morning saw a group of First Formers in her drawing room. The kitchen was the place most visitors gravitated towards. I remember only too well the dinner party she gave when she heard one or two sixth-formers weren't too happy. She was also a woman of definite views. When it came to which newspaper we should take in the girls' study it had to be The Guardian! Above all
Romey Annett
Romey Annett was committed to helping the young people in her care to become responsible, intelligent and well-informed adults. We owe her a lot.
Mrs Romey Annett played a very significant part in the life of the girls at King's. In the early days some of us actually boarded at the top of the Annetts' house and she was like a mother to us. This was particularly welcome in such a male- dominated environment. She was a great entertainer and often held birthday parties for the young boy boarders which we thoroughly enjoyed helping her with.
She always had a wonderful fruit cake or chocolate cake on the go which she often generously treated us to. Such generosity was once demonstrated at its extreme when five members of the Worcestershire Fire Service were running up the stairs with hoses, ready to extinguish a small fire at the top of the house. Mrs Annett was standing at the bottom offering them tea, coffee, hot chocolate and fruit cake. Although sorely tempted to stop in their tracks, the firemen did feel that, on balance, perhaps they should put the fire out first!
I am very grateful for the special support she gave us and will always have very fond memories of her.
Donald T. Howell (S. 53 - 61), Chairman of the Governing Body writes:
Romey Annett died in December 1996. For some time she had conducted a typically courageous fight against ill health and pain. But I never heard her complain; my memories of Romey are of fun, laughs, her delicious cooking, real friendship and of her enthusiastic interest in, seemingly, everyone she met and everything she did. She had an extraordinary, and positive, influence on the school, and - dare I say it - on David, during his period as Headmaster while he was leading the school through two decades of important and progressive change.
Romey was a very strong person and many must have benefited from her strength, wisdom and support when they needed help. She seemed somewhat formidable and daunting when I first met her, as a boy of 16, in 1959.
But, as I got to know her better, these feelings soon went. You always knew where you were with Romey; there was no 'beating around the bush'. If she didn't agree with you, she would tell you - and why. If a friendly argument then resulted, you had to have your wits about you to be in with a chance. She was quick!
Quick in a different sense too on one occasion. I remember arriving at the school to attend a Governors' meeting in a new (and reasonably powerful) car. As I stopped to greet Romey in College Green, the inevitable question came: "May I drive it, please?'I can remember with horror the Grand Prix start and the burning rubber as she commenced an extremely rapid circuit in full view of any members of Chapter, or boarders, who were looking out of their windows. Luckily for both of us, the Dean was not about.
Her memorial service in Worcester Cathedral on 7 February 1997 was, appropriately, a most happy event. If she was there in spirit (and I'm sure she was), she must have been pleased to see the smiles, and evidence of deep affection, as memories were recalled. Many in the congregation had returned to Worcester after years of absence because of their respect and fondness for her.
I never met anyone else like Romey Annett, and I'm sure I never will. When I think of her, as I do quite often, there is a feeling of warmth. It was a privilege to know her, and to be a friend, over so many years.
MICHAEL ROMILLY CRAZE
24 September 1906 - 28 February 1998 Michael's name became synonymous with that of the Club during his long time as Secretary, which duty he carried out until he was 89, such was his dedication; it was only his failing sight and hearing which forced him to resign the post. He asked me to take notes at the 1995 Centenary Reunion to use as source material for The Vigornian, and in a letter thanking me afterwards, he said, "I felt proud of the Club that night." As the standing ovation he received at that Reunion showed we too were proud: proud to have a man like Michael as a member.
Many gathered in the Cathedral on 1st May to pay their final respects to Michael. Two tributes were read: one
by Alec Mackie on behalf of King's and the Club; the other by David Waddell on behalf of Felsted School. These tributes are printed here (Alec Mackie's first) and give some impression of a very special man.
'Many words have been written and spoken in rightful tribute to Michael since his passing. It is therefore a singular honour to be invited today on behalf of those local fellowships in which Michael was so intimately involved in the years that followed his return home to Worcestershire.
It is therefore fitting that this Service of Thanksgiving for his life should be held in this Cathedral which was so much a part of his life; for it was here that he was confirmed and was later to write a sonnet which included these lines:
"As a King's Scholar I had glimpsed the great Cathedral's lasting grace. And of my loyalty convinced, I saw it as the perfect place."
After his retirement from Felsted, Michael quickly became involved in the life of the Cathedral. He became assistant librarian to enable him to research his great history of The King's School, which was published in 1972. His work in the library also helped him to write a number of short articles on particular aspects of the Cathedral's history. He became Chairman of the Friends of the Cathedral and his great gift of words will be remembered by the many visitors here who would
Miclzuel CI-uze,with his hook 'King's School Worcester'
benefit from his 'off the cuff' talks to young and old alike.
Michael willingly took on the r81e of Secretary of the Old Vigornian Club, a position he held with great dedication and distinction until three years ago. As Chairman of the Club for much of this period, I saw at first hand how much loving care Michael took in carrying out his responsibilities. Not a day went by without him dealing with some aspect of the Club's affairs, whether it was maintaining the register of members, correspondence, dispatching The Vigornian to members; he had an encyclopaedic knowledge of OVs and could quickly tell you when a particular individual had been at School and, what profession they were following.
Michael saw a dream fulfilled in time for the celebrations to mark the Centenary of the Club when, thanks to his persuasive powers, he almost singlehandedly raised several thousand pounds to pay for the complete restoration of the Summer House in the School Gardens. Those of us who were present will remember Michael's beaming smile and great joy when he officially unveiled the restored building, watched by some of his school contemporaries.
Later in December 1995, exactly 100 years to the day of the formation of the Club, Michael was given a standing ovation by the 200 OVs who were present in College Hall at the Centenary Dinner when, as President, I had the great pleasure of presenting him with a painting of the Cathedral and the School Playing Fields, to mark his retirement as Secretary.
Michael's work was by no means confined to the School, the OV Club, or the Cathedral. He taught at the Blind College and at the Girls' Grammar School; he played a leading r61e in the life of his beloved Whittington where, largely through his efforts as Church Warden, he secured the Order in Council which gave Parish Church status to the village. He served the Village Hall committee until the day before his ninety-first birthday!
He was kind and generous and would always help those who were in need. No head boy or senior girl of The King's School would leave the annual reunion dinner without receiving a small gift from him.
Michael was a remarkable man - a
'gentle man' - a living institution - a scholar, teacher, historian, poet, sportsman, a loving husband and father, wise confidant and loyal friend. May the memory of his fellowship and kindness be a constant source of strength and a reminder to us all as we strive to follow the example Michael set us throughout his life.'
'Michael Romilly Craze came to Felsted School in 1936 aged 30, accompanied it in its wartime evacuation to Herefordshire and returned to Worcester on his retirement in 1969. Previously he had taught at Bloxham School for six years.
Born and bred in Worcestershire, son of a country parson and a Scholar of The King's School, Worcester, Michael was in the Sixth Form of the renowned A.D. Franklin, popularly known as Aristotle. From there he won an Exhibition in Classics to Hertford College, Oxford in 1926 when he was 20.
Rooted and grounded in the Anglican Christian tradition, The Book of Common Prayer, the King James' Bible and a Classical education, his rich talent for the appreciation and the writing of English prose and verse flourished. For him, a knowledge of Greek and Latin literature and mythology was indispensable to the proper teaching and understanding of English and led to his love of the classically educated poets John Milton and Andrew Marvell. It has been said that the time at Oxford Michael spent reading Milton prevented his gaining a First. It has also been said that he might have had a cricket trial for Worcestershire Seconds but for very poor sight in one eye.
Michael's many achievements at Felsted, both in School and village have been set out admirably in the Bidding Prayer. The Felsted era ended 30 years ago. The youngest of the 3000 odd Felstedian pupils that knew him are 46 years old, the eldest approaching their eighties, those from Bloxham in their mid-eighties. Yet our memories and our affection for him are very clear. For Michael was the complete schoolmaster, not merely a classroom or a subject teacher but concerned with all aspects of pupils' development, mind, body and spirit, not only with what they knew but how they thought.
Gordon Stanion writes, 'When Michael Craze became Housemaster of Windsor's House in 1939 I was only 15. Quite soon it became clear that we had a special man as our Housemaster. He was a deep thinker and encouraged boys to think logically and sensibly when making decisions. Going through my schoolboy diaries of 1939 to 1942, time and again MRC is mentioned, for instance, a good lesson, a game of fives with him, help with hurdles, a good Cadet Force lecture, a debate, a boxing training session, a chat about careers, a mock trial. For a boy of 15 to 18 to record his appreciation of his Housemaster so often speaks for itself.'
Gordon was Head of Windsor's in 1942 and an usher at Michael's marriage in August that year to Carol, a very happy occasion. In those days a bachelor Housemaster had to give up his House when he married for lack of accommodation. Sadly for Felsted, Michael spent only three of his 33 years as a Housemaster.
His prodigious memory enabled him to teach and to speak in public fluently without notes, to be well-informed about people and events in School and village generally. He could recite hundreds of lines of poetry from memory.
Michael's single-mindedness and perseverance deserve special mention, leading him to achieve extraordinary feats such as his scholarly History of Felsted School, the education of his four children at carefully chosen independent schools on his relatively meagre salary, Alan at Sedbergh, Peter at Westminster, Robin at Marlborough and Ruth at Clarendon. This entailed a colossal and prolonged sacrifice by Michael and Carol in their standard of living, having only modest furnishings, living on a subsistence diet, never driving a car and marking exam scripts during the holidays.
Michael's command of the Combined Cadet Force and running of Athletics brought him into touch with most of the boys in the School. On one occasion the express railway train carrying the contingent to annual Camp was about to depart and had to be delayed, I know not for what reason. Michael approached the guard and said, 'I am Colonel Craze. I am in command of this train. It will not leave Euston station until I give the order.'.
Every medically fit boy in the School and almost the entire teaching staff were involved on one day a week in athletic Standards, where every boy attempted to achieve set times and distances in various events and was properly judged and recorded. Two copies of all events and the names of participants were written out in Michael's hand. He never used a typewriter.
Michael had two nicknames at Felsted. The Sage and The Oracle. He is probably most remembered for his pronouncements, brief, pithy pearls of wisdom, which today would be sound bytes, and which he would declaim in a distinctive authoritarian tone, commenting on events or characters of the day. These were widely quoted throughout the School. Although they gave rise to much amusement they frequently hit the nail on the head. Not all are suitable for repetition here, but I recall that there was one boy who was always to be found sitting on a radiator when Michael arrived to teach in his bitterly cold classroom. Michael's comment was, 'Boy, when you grow up you will marry a radiator and beget hot water bottles.'.
I speak as one of many Felstedians who owe Michael an immeasurable debt. Over and above all the separate departments that he ran, there was the man of great intellect with imagination and sensitivity, who knew his pupils as well as any schoolmaster. He encouraged and cared for them and was not afraid to reprove them according to their needs. It is hardly surprising that he was much loved and respected.
He supported Felsted Parish Church equally faithfully as Church Warden, Secretary to the PCC and regular lesson reader.
Perhaps I was more fortunate than most in also having him as a colleague and House Tutor when I became a Housemaster at Felsted. One saw another side to him that merely confirmed one's earlier impression of a hugely capable and dependable person with an incalculable influence for good. In his eighties he supported Old Felstedian reunions with his decade histories which he undertook so willingly, and brilliant after-dinner speeches. We thank Carol too, for aiding and abetting him.'
JOHN ARTHUR ARROWSMITH MAUND
After King's John Maund studied theology at Mirfield and then moved on to Leeds University. In 1939 he went to do missionary work in South Africa. When war broke out he joined the army and was appointed chaplain to the Kaffrarian Rifles. He proved himself in the field to be everything a chaplain should be; he was mentioned in dispatches and awarded the MC, a singular honour for a non-combatant soldier. The citation described how he led the stretcher-bearers to wounded men at Bardia, and as several of his men reported: "He walked about under heavy fire, taking no more notice than if it had been raining." Maund inspired with his example of courage and duty; in June 1942, at the fall of Tobruk, he voluntarily became a POW rather than leave his men.
At the end of the War he returned to Pretoria and proving his ability was appointed Bishop of Basutoland (later Lesotho), a vast diocese of mostly mountainous terrain, then accessible for the most part only on horseback. For 25 years he did just that, riding from church to church, living with the people and sharing their hardships; he did much to strengthen the Church in the Diocese and to improve the lives of all in his care.
On retirement in 1976 he was awarded the CBE for his work and returned to England where he served as Assistant Bishop at Ipswich and then Worcester (84-86). His final post was chaplain to the Beauchamp Community at Malvern Link, but ill health confined him to a nursing home for much of his last two years. He married in 1948 but his wife Mary died many years before him; there were no children.
CHARLES ARTHUR MYERS, ARCO, LRAM, ARCM
Starting his musical career as a chorister under Sir Ivor Atkins, Charles became a widely respected musician in many spheres, including recitalist, teacher, choirmaster, editor, author and Blackburn's Diocesan Organ Adviser. His generous bequest of his extensive and valuable music library to The King's School will be a fitting and lasting memorial to a talented OV.
On leaving School, he became articled to Herbert Sumsion at Gloucester Cathedral. Still living in Worcester, although not on the staff, he had some piano and organ pupils at the School who will remember him for his youthful enthusiasm which contributed to considerable success over a short period. Others will recall his Music Society (78 rpm!) record presentations in Mrs Kittermaster's drawing room. At this time he was Organist of St George's Church, Barbourne, but was also a frequent performer on cinema organs, including that in the Worcester Gaumont. More recently, he accompanied a 'revival' of silent films on the famous Willis Organ in St George's Hall, Liverpool.
After a spell at Monkton Combe School, Bath, where he met his wife, he was appointed Organist and Choirmaster of Clitheroe Parish Church in 1950, also Director of Music of the Royal Grammar School there, and he remained in that town for the rest of his life.
His Three Choirs experiences heavily influenced him, and he is known to have sung in Elgar's last performance of Gerontius. He thus brought enthusiasm and thoroughness to all he did, especially his choir directing. He was also Editor of Musical Opinion for many years, and contributed articles entitled 'Organs - Advice on keeping them in good health'.
In addition to all the above, he was teaching private pupils who were achieving exam distinctions right up to the last, despite his failing eyesight and arthritis, which ultimately prevented him playing himself - a major frustration - he had a 5-manual organ console and a harpsichord in one room, and two Steinway grand pianos in another at his home.
In all things he was supported by his wife Rowena, to whom we extend our deepest sympathy.
When Sandys Sherwood (Ca. 19-25) noted that the Hon. Sec. was a resident of Peopleton he was prompted to recall the following story about a former Rector of the parish, Tom Davies, who was an uncle of his and quite a character. The Revd. Tom Davies was an avid member of the County Cricket Club -
particularly the Bar.
Sandys was playing for the School and though his fort6 was bowling, on that day he hit a tremendous six, right out of the School field and into the County Ground Car Park; it landed on the bonnet of a brand new Lagonda. As soon as his innings was over Sandys went to see what damage had been done and found himself confronted by an infuriated parson.
"Who ***** did this?', he thundered, in very unclerical language, his face purple with rage.
Sandys vaguely recognised his uncle: "I did Sir, I am your nephew."
"Are you then a Sherwood, young man?"
"Yes Sir."
The anger instantly drained from the reverend gentleman's features: "In that case, well done, damn good hit!"
Sandys was then taken for a ride in the new Lagonda by his Uncle Tomwith blood thicker than water all was obviously forgiven.
M.J. PAGE
The Vigornian is circulated each year using the Royal Mail's pre-payment bulk posting service. Briefly it works like this: first, I take a sample of the items I want to post into Worcester Post Office, say how many items are to be posted, fill out the form and write a cheque for the gross amount; second, I contact Royal Mail Customer Services to arrange collection in bulk. [As a matter of interest the total weight to be collected is about 0.75 tonnes.]
At the Post Office I asked what I should enter on the form under Sender and was told to put in the name of my organisation. I did that: Sender - Old Vigornian Club. One copy of that form is retained by me and another is passed on to the local Sorting Office. The next day I arranged collection with Customer Services: a lorry would be sent from the Sorting Office on the day following at 10.00 am.
My address is a little obscure in that I have a Peopleton address because I live within the parish, but actually some three miles by road outside the village; the result is that many delivery/collection drivers have difficulty finding us. I was not unduly surprised when the Mail lorry turned up quite late, the driver
explaining he had gone to the village, but nobody there knew where I lived. Two days later in Peopleton I was told the story of a Royal Mail driver who had been looking for a man no one had heard of - a Mr. O.L.D. VigornianClub.
M.J. PACE
Dr John M Moore retired in August 1998 after 15 years as Headmaster, during which he successfully guided King's through a period of enormous change, to leave it as the thriving coeducational establishment it is now. Throughout that time he was always very supportive of the OV Club, describing it as "part of the School community". John attended all OV Committee meetings where, under 'Headmaster's Business', he regularly brought forward matters of importance for discussion. In committee his quick and incisive mind would often allow him to see straight to the core of a problem and its solution: we shall miss his wise counsel. At his last Committee meeting on June 3rd John was presented, by the President on behalf of the Club, with a set of inscribed hardwood garden furniture for use at his new home.
It is customary for a retired Headmaster to adopt a very low profile around his old school for at least 5 years following retirement, and John Moore has said he will observe this custom; but we know his interest in King's will continue and we look forward to welcoming him to OV functions after that time. We wish him a long and " happy retirement.
On September 13th The Chairman, Roy Padden, arranged a reception at his home when members of the Committee and their partners were pleased to meet the new Headmaster, Timothy H Keyes, Mrs Mary Anne Keyes and their sons Sam and Bill. In a very relaxed atmosphere we came to know them all and welcomed them warmlv. Tim and
O.V.
NEWS
S. Ahmed (Ch. 67-68) Remains in contact with the Club and his old headmaster, David Annett. Sikander is married to Sadia and is an army officer.
D.M. Annett (Hon. OV, Headmaster 59-79) David Annett moved from Whitbourne to the Beauchamp Community, near Malvern Link in August 97 where he has a pleasant, small retirement house and garden. His address is St Christopher, Beauchamp, Newland, Malvern, WR13 5AX, Tel: 01684 565392; he would welcome visits from ovs.
R. Banerji (S. 81-85) After being lost for some time is now known to be at 30 Ravenswood Gardens, The Grove, Isleworth, Middx. TW7 4JG.
Elizabeth A Barnes (Co. 90-92) Contacted the Club in early 1998 for help in tracing some old friends prior to her wedding; she is now Mrs Storrie, and currently living at 10, 12th Avenue, PO Box 403, Orangemund, Namibia, SW Africa.
K.P. Barnett (Hon. OV 52-84) He and his wife enjoy a peaceful retirement in Kempsey with regular holidays to Europe and Scotland. Peter Barnett was in charge of Creighton House for many years; he met one of his 'old boys', Sir Timothy Garden, a little while ago - a real pleasure, but it also reminded him how quickly time passes. He continues to enjoy good health.
A.J. Bentall (Cr. 53-64) Is Deputy Head of Lanesborough, the Junior School to RGS,Guildford; when Angus heard that his colleague, Tim Keyes, had been selected as the new Headmaster at King's he wrote endorsing the Governor's decision. In July 1998 he was one of a group who walked the Wychavon Way spending two nights B&B at Home Farm, Bredon's Norton, the home of Mick Meadows (Ca. 5663) - "very good value and thoroughly recommended." On another trip back to Worcestershire recently he met his old Housemaster, Peter Barnett.
Mary Anne intend to continue with the Victoria Bentley (S. 9 1-93) Followlong tradition of friendship and support ing her First and the completion of an given to the Club, and we look forward MA in Critical & Cultural Theory she to reciprocating. has joined Price Waterhouse Coopers
The trustees of the estate of Major Paul Woodhouse who was at the school from 1918 to 1926 have kindly donated a grand piano to the School in his memory. He died in 1994 age 84, having spent many years as Assistant Master at Peter Symonds' School in Winchester. He was a proprietor with his wife of the Hampshire Chronicle and was a former Mayor of Winchester.
as a management consultant in IT.
A.C. Benton (H. 75-80) Andrew lives and works in London where he runs his own business. He travels regularly back to the family home at Libbery, in Worcestershire to help his mother run the building and development company started by his late father.
Dr Nicola Bradbear Is a founder of Bees For Development, an organisation created to promote and develop the craft of beekeeping in the third world, using the methods most naturally suited to the countries and cultures she visits. The aim is to create a sustainable industry in the long term, to boost food production and provide a cash crop. Bees For Development has a web site: http://www.planbee.org.uk Nicola is based at Troy, Monmouth and travels widely in connection with this work.
Dr R.A. Bradbear (Cr. 66-68) Robin has recently renewed his Vigornian subscription and we now know he is living in Australia at 125 Windermere Road, Hamilton, Brisbane, Q 4007.
J.S. Brichieri-Colombi (S. 24-27) Trained as an electrical engineer and spent most of his early working years in the Far East; he was caught up in the war and ran an Ordnance factory in India for the duration. In 1948 he joined Crittall Manufacturing where his expertise soon led to promotion: Chief Engineer, Board of Management and in 1964 Board of Directors (Technical Director). Following a hostile take over, John resigned his directorship but was retained as Chief Engineer and R&D Manager for Crittall-Hope; he became an acknowledged expert in the design and testing of windows for all applications. He retired in 1972 but carried on as a consultant until 1975. Age and ill health now limit his activities.
T.R. Brock (Cr. 77-87) Tim has decided on a career change and has taken up a post with Bass plc as an Account Manager. He and his wife continue to live in Wellow, Bath.
G.E. Burrows (Cr. 43-5 1) Having retired Geoffrey and his wife have moved to Huntingdon to see their grandchildren growing up. Interests include railways, local history, archaeology (and baby sitting!).
Revd S.H. Cawdell (S. 78-83) Has moved to Claverley in Shropshire with his wife Sarah. Simon was installed as priest in charge of All Saints, Claverley
and Holy Innocents, Tuckhill on February 13 1998. He remains in touch with Mr Roberts, his old housemaster.
Dr D.E. Chandler (H. 62-67) Lives in Canada. In January 1998 David wrote supporting the idea of the Club going on the Internet and offering some constructive ideas. He is keen to trace N.J. Taylor (Ca. 63-67); if anyone can help please contact the Hon. Sec. or David direct - he can be e-mailed: chandler@axionet.com
Dr D.W.T. Ching (H. 71-76) Daniel is a Consultant Physician and Rheumatologist in Timaru, New Zealand, married with 2 children. He remains in touch with Nic Sproson in Worcester and Martin Fisher in Sydney. "Best wishes to the OV Club and King's!"
Dr M.R.J. Claxton (Cl. 48-56) Is a consultant anaesthetist living in Hobart, Tasmania. Michael has written suggesting the Club prepare and distribute a list of Australian and NZ OVs with a view to making contact easier, or having the occasional 'Down Under Reunion', which he would support. He makes the occasional professional trip to Europe but unfortunately this year's visit did not coincide with the OV Reunion.
S.J. Cleobury (Ch. 58-67) The OV Reunion always seems to clash with a concert or recital in Stephen's busy schedule, but he continues to take a close interest in Club and School. He was delighted his own composition Joys 7 was performed at the End of Term Service in the Cathedral in December 1997.
Juliet H. Collins (Co. 89-91) Now Mrs Piper, Juliet has left Red Dragon Radio to work as a journalist for HTV Television.
S.M. Colston (H. 73-82). Simon has re-established contact with the Club and is based at 694 Fulham Rd, SW6 5SA where he runs his own business, the Simon Colston Consultancy. "Life has been incredibly varied and exciting since leaving in 1982." e-mail: simon.colston@xmm.com
R.R. Cox (DB 36-42) Was lost to the Club for a long time but visited the School in early 1998. Ray was living in USA, at 9950 Rue Chantemar, San Diego, Ca. 9213 1, but we now have an address for him in Malvern: Seven Springs, De Walden Rd, West Malvern WR14 4BL 01684 891669
W.D.J. Dale (Br ?-93) William Dale left King's to read Geography at Exeter and was lost to the Club for a time; but his name was spotted in a long list of Direct Graduate Entry Seamen who passed out at Britannia Royal Naval College on December 18 1997, and we now know he plans a career in the Navy. He can be contacted through his old home address, 5 Athelstan Rd, Worcester.
J.W.T. Davis (Cr. 47-49) Bill qualified as an architect, married Joanne, and they emigrated to Australia in 1960; he has a practice in Manly NSW. Interests include sport, philately bellringing and 'bushwalking'. He responded to the OVCC Circular by sending a great deal of useful information about the early years of the CC, and the Club returned a photograph of the 1949 l st XI (JWTD was a member) to replace Bill's copy lost in the move to Australia. He sends his best wishes to members of the 1st XI (48 &49) and the OVCC (48-55). In a 1948 1st XI match against Dean Close, Bill's bowling figures were 7 for 19; he wonders if this still stands as a record?
Dr J. Derry (B. 65-72) John has recently been awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Society of General Practitioners.
Revd B.J. Dickson (Hon. OV, School Chaplain 60-67) Brian left King's in 1967 to become Chaplain of Colston's School, Bristol and then in 1974 was made vicar of Bishopston. He retired to One Acre Cottage at Abberley, which he and his wife had acquired in 1963, and many OVs will remember Scout Field Days there in the 60s. He remains in touch with Revd. Royston Grosvenor (Br. 59-66) and Revd. Martin Loveless (Cr. 54-64) He was visited recently by John Horton (Cl. 6066), one of many prepared by BJD (as he was known to all) for confirmation in the Cathedral. "The cottage is on the Worcestershire Way and OVs who remember us would be most welcome to drop in".
Canon J.R. Fenwick (Hon. OV) Jeffery Fenwick has now retired as Dean of Guernsey to live in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. As a Governor he was involved in the appointment of John Moore as Headmaster and has watched the School develop in recent years: "The number and variety of activities is most impressive. I only wish that
children here (amongst them four of my grandchildren) could enjoy and benefit from half as many. Having been involved in the appointment of John Moore I feel I have contributed in some small way to the fine reputation which the School now enjoys."
J.R.A. Frearson (Cl. 64-68) He has been variously in South Africa, Holland, and Hong Kong working for Shell. The Club caught up with him briefly in Beijing, PRC, but he has moved on again. Jeremy is married to Helen with two children, Susannah & Nicholas.
Sir Timothy Garden KCB (Cr. 5262) Tim's travels continue as the Director of Chatham House with visits to Japan (frequently), Hong Kong, USA, Argentina, and much of Europe; he bumps into OVs all over the worldthe last was P.B. Preece (S. 55-63) in Japan. He was recently invited to be a member of the panel of experts for the Government's Strategic Defence Review. His CCF experiences at King's are coming in useful now that he is Honorary President of the London & SE Region of the Air Training Corps.
N.C. Garland (Ch. 61 -66) After 20 years in the pharmaceutical industry working for one company (Beecham) Nigel has had four jobs in the last 6 years, currently in the communications agency world as manager of The Medicine Group in Abingdon. His two teenage children attend Pangbourne College. He remains in touch with Chris Haynes (Ch. 56-65) his old Head of House and rugby captain and has recently made contact after some 30 years with Pat Lockley (Ca. 61-64) with whom he was friendly at Wells House before both moved to King's.
T.N. Gazard (Cr. 63-70) Continues to live in Pennsylvania, USA but has moved from ICI to DuPont (polyester films). Trevor and Pauline live at 14 Ardmoor Lane,Chadds Ford, Pa. 19317. e-mail: gazards @ aol.com
Dr Mara Goldstein (Co. 81-83) After a lengthy secondment in Belgium is now back in this country and living at 9 Dynham Rd, London, NW6 2NS. Tel: 01 7 1-624-9445
Revd. R.G.J. Grosvenor (Br. 59-66) Royston has moved to become vicar of Tidenham, Chepstow in the Forest of Dean. He was at King's in Brian Dickson's era, and was a curate to Brian for a time; they remain in touch.
M.P. Gwilt (Cr. 68-75) Is currently between jobs and expects to start work again in the New Year. He left Arriva plc (formerly Cowie Group plc) after several promotions, including his appointment as Managing Director, because a major change of direction was planned for the Group. Earlier this year Michael was asked to join a Govternment 'Cleaner Vehicles Task Force' group, chaired by Dr John Reid MP, which will contribute to a White Paper on public transport. He has recently moved to Kingswood Cottage, Kingswood, Stanford Bridge WR6 6SB. e-mail: MichaelGwilt@msn.com
C.A. Hartill (N. 26-32) Has been an OV for 66 years and continues to take an interest in his old School and maintains contact with the Club. Clement attended the Centenary Reunion Service in the Cathedral in 1995.
J.R. Henderson-Laird (Cl. 44-48) Ronald attended Tredennyke House when it was independent and moved to King's when Tredennyke became a part of the School. He was a contemporary and friend of Chris Benson and was disappointed not to be able to attend this year's Reunion when Chris - now Sir Christopher - was the main speaker.
D.G. Hepworth (Cl. 58-65) Dave read Geography at university, then did a PGCE, following that with a higher degree in Geography. For the last 20 years he has been working abroadKenya, Pakistan, Mozambique and Botswana - as an education consultant with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, which he describes as a really interesting job. He returns to Worcester every 213 years to visit his mother and would be pleased to attend a Reunion if he is back in the UK at the right time. He approves of the ways in which King's has developed in recent years.
P.J. Heyes (Br. 58-64) In a surprise move a few years ago he abandoned his long time career in agriculture, went back to school and qualified B.Ed., since when he has been teaching around the Worcester area. Pete's son, Toby (Cl. 87-97) finished at King's last year and is currently reading Business Economics at Swansea as well as playing as much cricket as he can.
J.N. Higginson (H. 43-44) John came to King's from the Choir School (he was Head Chorister 42-43) and on a trip back to this country last summer he
took the opportunity to re-establish his links with the Cathedral Choir Association. He has donated a picture of himself, his late brother Peter (also a chorister) and the late H.E. Nicholls - a chorister for nearly 40 years - taken outside The Hostel in 1941 to the Archive. H.E. Nicholls was School Secretary for some 30 years; he was known to the young choristers, somewhat irreverently, as "Pa Chick", and was something of a character.
J.W. Hoggard (Ca. 33-36) John was reported killed in action after his ship was sunk during the War, but the news eventually came back through the Red Cross that he was a POW. In spite of that he was included in the Roll of Honour which was placed in College Hall in 1948, even though his old Housemaster (A.J. Bentley) had been informed when he was found to be a POW. His name was eventually removed and a new centre panel fitted to the Memorial. In June 1998 John wrote to say he was still very much alive and well.
N.H. Holden (S. 50-58) Norman writes to say that the collapse of the Far Eastern economies has had a knock-on effect on the NZ economy; he advises anyone thinking of emigrating to NZ to think very hard about the down side. Advantages he lists as: nice clean green image, little pollution, wide open spaces, recreational facilities, kinder climate; cheaper travel, houses, food, petrol, etc. He lives in Masterton and recently met R.G. Payne (Cl. 61-65) also a Masterton resident.
C.J. Borne (Br. 75-77) Christopher wrote in July to let us know he is now based in Germany at Rodelbergweg 8, 65817 Eppstein, Frankfurt, as Business Services Manager for Hoechst AG. Married to Karen with two children, Dominic & Vanessa He sends best wishes to all OVs.
P.W. Hughes (Cr. 42-46) Paul Hughes started out as a keen member of the OV Club but various moves (Army, career, etc.) resulted in him losing touch for a very long time. He contacted the Hon. Sec. recently and reestablished his membership. In a letter to the Club he compares what the School is able to offer today with what he experienced in the war-restricted 40s, and records some of his other recollections. He is currently recovering from a major illness and surgery but when fully fit he will try to come to a
Reunion - his first in over 50 years. 99 Sharland Close, Grove, Wantage, Oxon. OX12 OAF. Tel: 01235 770393.
A.G. Jackson (S. 46-51) Retired in early 1998 and has moved from Leeds Castle to France, living in Normandy at Lieu Vaillant, 14400 Blay, Calvados.
G.N. Jackson, CMG (S. 27-31) Noel visited the Cathedral in January 1998 and took the opportunity to look over his old School. He was saddened to see the demise of boarding, particularly in School House: boarding had been a corner stone of school life for him. The Creighton Garden was originally constructed in his time and he was pleased to see it looking in such good order after the recent refurbishment: "Cuthbert Creighton would have approved," he said. He was much impressed by the results of the 1st XV in the 1997 Vigornian, which f~e thought must rank as a record season. [Highpraise, indeed, coming from a member of the very formidable 1st XV of 1930 - MJP]. Noel was also impressed by the variety and extent of extra-curricular activity - they did not have cricket tours to Barbados in his day! He sends best wishes to all at King's.
Dr Jocelyn C. Lee (Co. 84-86) Graduated in Medicine from the University of Dundee in 1992 and has been working as a hospital doctor since; she is currently an anaesthetist at the Southern General Hospital, Glasgow; life is treating her well. Jocelyn admits to losing touch with many of her old school friends and would like to re-new those contacts; she is living at 18 Balgray Rd, Newton Mearns, Glasgow G77 6PB.
D.R. Leonard (Ca. 47-52 & Master 58-68) Has very good memories of his time at King's, as both pupil and teacher. He travels all the way from Chatham to Worcester (194 miles) for the OV committee meetings (and is never late!), returning home the same evening. Living so close to the Channel he goes over to France frequently and has picked up a sound knowledge of the language, which he is now able to teach.
P.W.F. Letcher (S. 74-78) Still selling houses in the New Forest; he sails, shoots and fishes in his spare time and has three children aged 6, 3, & 1. Peregrine raised £2640 for a children's hospice in June by entering a Triathlon:
600m swim, 45km cycle, &I lkm run; all completed in 2hr 47min. He did not win, but counts the venture as a success. Home: 15 Conference Place, Lymington, Hants S041 3TQ.
M.G. Lissimore (W. 67-74) Is currently working in Kenya, and Mark's base in England is now Lower Westridge, Ashfield Park Rd, Ross-onWye, Hfd. HR9 5AS.
Dr J.G. Malcomson (W. 55-65) Graduated in 1971 in Medicine. He married a New Zealander, Cris, in 1973, went out there for a few monthsand didn't come back! John is in general practice in Howick (Auckland); they have two children, both currently at university. Interests include mountain biking (he even races occasionally), and mountain tramping. "We have heaps of these and they all have a special beauty, I just love being in them .. . you can go for days without seeing another living soul." Unfortunately John broke a leg on a recent tramp and had to be air-ambulanced from a remote pass to hospital; undaunted he is already planning the next tramp. He has visited the KSW web site which he describes as 'impressive'. He favours the Club going on the Internet; his own e-mail address is: malcjohn@ihug.co.nz
A.N.H. Markes (Cl. 43-48) temporarily lost to the Club, but we now know where he lives - still in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, but at 8 Park Rd, SA70 7ND.
Joanne Mason (K. 9 1-93) Jo is working on genetic diseases at the West Midlands Regional Genetics Laboratories and in November 1997 she became engaged to Stephen St Pier, whom she met at Exeter University.
T.W.J. Moody (K. 80-91) Recently moved to Himbleton, but still lead commentator for motorcycle GPs on TV. e-mail: toby @the18 17co.demon.co.uk
B.L. Nicholas (Cl. 43-50) On a trip to Worcester last summer with Ken Laflin (41-49) Brian met up with John Arthurs (43-48) & Martin[H.M.P.] Davies (S. 43-50), both of whom he had not seen in 45 years, and all four walked around the School: " we saw facilities that we couldn't have dreamt of in the austere 40s! But the garden was unchanged ..." Brian has just retired after 33 years as a lecturer in French at Sussex University. 'Floreat Schola Regia Vigorniensis '.
Alison Nott (Co. 81 -83) Alison completed a Ph.D in The Russian School of Acting in 1997 after a year at the State Institute of Cinematography in Moscow in 1994. She is now an actortutor in Drama & Theatre Arts at Birmingham University.
Dr Rachael Oeppen (Co. 85-87) Rachael is training in Radiology and her husband Peter (see Marriages) in maxillo-facial surgery.
S.R. Owen (Cl. 78-88) At the time of writing Richard had become engaged to Philippa R Morton and the wedding was planned for October 1998. He has completed Articles and qualified into Commercial Property taking up a post in August with Burges Salmon in Bristol.
M.J. Page (Cr. 60-65) Is now Secretary of the OV Club. He thought it was about time he embraced the IT revolution and went on a short computer course at the end of last year - his first time in a class room in nearly 30 years. The result is that most correspondence from the Hon. Sec now goes out word-processed - which has the distinct advantage of guaranteeing its legibility. Mike has enjoyed catching up with a number of old friends while Secretary, many with whom he last had contact with 33 years ago.
R.G. Payne (Cl. 61-65) Computers has been one of Rob's interests since the early 80s, and he decided to have a go at making his hobby his career, with the result that he changed jobs and is now in charge of Computer Studies at his new school. "It was the best move I have ever made - we have one of the best computer set ups in the area, and I am responsible for it all - I am really enjoying it." His wife, Hilda, is equally busy as a school Deputy Principal, but they do find time to talk together in the holidays - provided they make an appointment with each other! At the time of writing to the Hon. Sec. from Masterton, New Zealand (early August 1998) the All Blacks had just lost 4 internationals in a row: 'a national disaster greater than any earthquake or tidal wave,' according to Rob. e-mail: payne@voyager.co.nz
C.J. Pickford (S. 65-70) As Bedfordshire County Archivist, Chris has just had published Volume I1 of a three volume set Bedfordshire Churches In The Nineteenth Century, with Volume I11 set to come out in 2000. The series
is based on many years research and is likely to become a standard reference work in its field. His address is now 15 Golding Rd, Sevenoaks, Kent TN 13 3NL
C.J.J. Preston (W. 83-92) After his academic success at Bristol Dental School Chris continues to live in that city but his practise is in Weston-superMare. He is engaged to be married to Rachel Lucas of Bristol.
F.T. Price (Db 47-58) A recent visit to Worcester prompted Fred to reestablish contact with the Club and renew his Vigornian subscription. He lives at Tugmore, Butcherfield Lane, Hartfield, Sussex TN7 4LB.
Janice A. Price (Ca. 75-77) Graduated MA in Theology & Education from King's College in 1996. Janice now works as an adviser in Mission & Evangelism for the Church of England.
Sarah Proctor (Co. 89-91) Graduated BA (Hons) in Urban Studies and is currently a Youth Worker on the Oasis Youth Ministry Course in London; Sarah is based at St John's Church in Felbridge, W. Sussex. She is now Mrs Bingham.
C. Pugh (Cr. 41-48) Chris writes: "My school days were not marked by notable achievement and my eventual graduation at Bristol would no doubt have surprised my School contemporaries, whether boys or masters. Nevertheless, the fact that OV news is unbelievable is no excuse for my not writing for 50 years. I am pleased to report however that I have enjoyed keeping up my Vigornian magazine subscription and reading about School life over the years." Following retirement from the Health & Safety Executive (civil engineering) he has moved with his wife to 7 Killams Lane, Taunton, Somerset TA1 3YA.
M.K. Pye (Br. 57-63) After 20 years in New York (which he describes as 'magic') Michael is moving to Portugal where he intends to concentrate on writing books. He has recently sold the movie rights in his new book Taking Lives to Warners and is 'drowning in lawyers and their bills'; the book is published here by Phoenix House1 Orion. Since June 1998 Michael is to be found at Casa Nova, Semide, 3220 Miranda Do Corvo Portugal.
Dr R.G. Quiney (W. 54-64) Rod has lived and worked in Canada for 30 years, and we now have an address for
Dr P.S. Raderecht (S. 44-50) Peter did 8 years in the RAF before doing a sandwich course at what is now Brunel University in Applied Physics. His career was in semi-conductor research with the same company (under a variety of names, following take-overs, etc,) during which he obtained a M.Sc and a Ph.D. He retired in 1997 and is renovating an old cottage - 34 Brockridge Lane, Frampton Cotterell, Bristol BS36 2HU where OVs are welcome to call. He remains a keen cricket fan and is a Life Member of Worcestershire CCC, and keeps fit by playing squash. Peter has donated an important collection of photographs to the Archive.
C.R. Rayers (Cr. 67-74) Has completed 20 years with Sema Group, a leading European computer software and service company. He has contacted the Archive with several items from his era.
P.M. Richards (DB 4 1-46) Peter is an Architect and Historic Buildings Adviser with a practise in Thorpe Bay, Essex.
J.H. Richardson (H. 37-38) Age and health now mean that John can no longer write letters, but he has just renewed his Vigornian subscription and his wife has written to say how much he looks forward to reading the magazine each year. They live at 30 Mulberry Trees, Shepperton, Middx. TW17 8JN
P.J. Rogers (Br. 59-66) Phi1 continues to live in Worksop but now teaches in nearby Retford; he is involved in a variety of extra-curricular activities and his interest in music continues. The closure of the coal mines in that part of the country has caused tremendous economic and social problems, and made teaching even harder in what was already a 'tough' area. He is married to Judy, a Haematologist, with three children, Eleanor, Thea, and Jacob.
R.W. Rudd (W. 58-65) Bob is Senior Software Engineer at PAC Software Ltd, a small company he helped set up which specialises in RealTime Control. The company is based in Hanley Swan, Worcs where he also lives.
S.J. Scott (H. 58-65) "Having spent nearly 30 years teaching Physics in various Gloucestershire schools is now enjoying a well earned retirement in
Cheltenham!" was Simon's response ( in 'Vigornianspeak') to a request for some OV news. Having condensed most of his life into one, short sentence he went on to say he misses the teaching but not all the paperwork and aggravation found in schools today. He keeps busy by turning his hand to a variety of practical jobs. He has 3 children, the youngest at primary school. He remains friends with Graeme Mulcahy (Cl. 58-65).
E.S. Sherwood, QPM (Ca. 19-25) Served in the Nigerian Police Force for 25 years, then returned for a brief period to this country before going to the West Indies on further police duties. Retiring from police work he then ran a harbourside restaurant for 10 years before he and his wife retired to Busot, Spain where they have spent 28 happy years. [See story below].
M.D.A. Smith (Ch. 82-87) Mark has worked as a Hydrographic Surveyor for Racal Electronics for the last five years after graduating with a degree in Survey & Mapping Sciences.
M.J.Q. Smith (OS. 80-87) Selected for Worcestershire & Herefordshire RFU in 1997198 North Midlands County Competition, having been a replacement against Shropshire in 1997. Continues to work for Forward Trust in Birmingham as a Credit Underwriter & Analyst.
A.L. Stacey (Hon. OV 58-91) Alan Stacey served under 4 Headmasters and was a Housemaster of School House towards the end of its time as a boarding house; many OVs will also remember Alan as an enthusiastic and energitic officer in the CCF. He and Jane remain well and fully occupied in retirement and are to be seen at various School and OV functions.
F.S. Sutcliffe (Hon. OV 53-68) Many will remember Frank Sutcliffe as Housemaster of Chappel in the 60s. He recently exchanged correspondence with one of his 'old boys' Tony Cook"It is a bit sobering to find one's expupils settled down into comfortable middle age.. .". He has 8 grandchildren and things get a bit expensive around Christmas! He keeps busy as a local school governor, a part-time science teacher and is involved in a lot of local music activities. He attended the 450th celebrations at King's and met a lot of old friends, but finds the OV Reunion nearly always clashes with other commitments.
D.C.N. Tandy (Cl. 56-65) Read Electrical Engineering at Imperial and started working for the BBC which included a secondment to Dubai. He left the BBC to do a two year contract in Brunei, returning to the UK to work for Reuters Television. Dave eventually went self-employed doing systems design & installation for clients in the Broadcasting Television Industry (he set up and looked after facilities for the Lillehammer Winter Olympics). His wife Jane is a musician and they have 3 daughters and a son. He remains in touch with John Bomphrey (W. 56-65) who was his Best Man; John is Head of Physics at King's School Grantham. On a trip to Worcester in October 1998 Dave arranged to meet A.V. Cook (Cl. 57-66) & M.J. Page (Cr. 60-65); he had not seen Tony or Mike since 1965.
P.M. Tansell (DB 41-44) Hopes to attend a Reunion one day, but the travelling distance makes it difficult! He has moved to a new address, but still in the same town: 10 Durham Court, Camira 4300, Queensland, Australia.
C.J. Tarrant (Ch. 60-64) Is back in touch with the Club after some years of 'rather half-hearted involvement', and finds it extraordinary how much his old School has changed. He does come into contact with other OVs occasionally but admits to having lost touch with a good many. Most will be familiar with Chris's high profile television work, but he is also one of the leading lights on London-based Capital Radio.
C.N. Thompson (H. 61-65) He has lived outside the UK since 1970, the
last 16 years in the USA; as a result he has not had contact with King's or most of his peers in a long time, although he continues to take the Vigornian. Living in the USA where college and class reunions are the norm, Nigel realises he may be missing out and wonders why he did not make more effort to keep up with friends from school; perhaps it is time to reconnect.
P.S. Thompson (H. 58-63) Patrick runs a watch & clock shopWatchword in Guildford very close to where Angus Bentall (Cr. 53-64) works; they meet occasionally.
S.A. Tomlinson (OS. 78-85) Silas is on the move: first from Worcester to France, and now Germany at Barelli Strasse 8, 80638 Munich.
J.R. Turner (Hon. OV 60-96) John was a member of staff at Kings till retirement in 1995, rising to Senior Master; he stayed on until 1996 to cover for a colleague and 'relieved of the admin.' was able to concentrate on teaching in the classroom, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Now fully retired he concentrates on the other great love in his life - Bridge-playing and helping administer the County Association. His other occupation is pottering, which he defines as 'postponing till the day after tomorrow the DIY you were thinking of doing tomorrow'. His younger son is still at King's, so John is to be seen around the School, only now as a parent.
Clare E. Veal (Co. 79-8 1) Clare married Michael Bugel in 1996 and they now have a son Milo. They have moved from New York (where Clare
had been since 1992) to live in Hong Kong at Apt 3B, Royal Garden, 27 Republic Bay Rd.
J.F.G. Villis (W. 81-88) In a major change of direction Jonathan has left his career as an Agronomist to take up teaching English as a foreign language; he is currently based in St Petersburg. Susan C.A. Young (Co. 85-87) Sue is still working as a Land Agent for G. Herbert Banks at Great Witley but now lives in Tenbury Wells. She was a bridesmaid to her good friend Andrea Graves last spring.
J.D.T. Wall (S. 65-70) Is a Schools Inspector. He recently inspected a Latin lesson being given by A.J. Bentall (Cr. 53-64); James was taught Latin at King's by Peter Barnett (Hon. OV), Angus' old Housemaster.
J.V.T. Wilson (S. 38-42) Volunteered for Army service on leaving King's; later he attended Glasgow and Edinburgh Universities reading Agriculture. Worked abroad (West Africa) during the fifties, then returned to Scotland to take up a post as a Livestock Specialist with Unilever until retirement in 1987. Trevor spends his spare time keeping up the house & garden, entertaining grandchildren, and (whenever possible) playing the odd round of golf. He is married to Helen, a Scots lass: that, combined with all his other connections with the country, he says, must qualify him to be an 'Honorary Scot', even though he is Worcestershire born & bred. His address is 14 The Crofts and not 16 as published in the last Register.
Alison Wright (Co. 85-87) Alison has left London and has come back to Worcester where she plans to buy a house; she has enjoyed moving back. In July she began as PA to the Dean of the Medical School at Birmingham University.
J.B. Wright (S. 64-68) Qualified in Town Planning and has worked ever since in local government. Jeremy is currently working for Powys, midWales, where a colleague is Nick Willcox (Ca. 63-68) who remains a devoted fisherman and 'bon vivant'. He was recently in touch with Peter Garland (Ch. 63-68): a friendship renewed after nearly 30 years. Jeremy lives at 52 Pocketts Wharf, Maritime Quarter, Swansea, SA1 3XL 01792 643972.
Stefan Agopsowicz Physics with French
UMlST Education Cardiff Archit Natural Sciences
Jonathan Bourne Business Studies Swansea 119991
Lucy Boyle Medical Sciences Cambridge, New Hall [l9991
Alexander Brittain Geoaraohv UCL do, -
Lydia Brookes Modern & Mediaeval Languages Cambridge, Selwyn [l9991
Alastair Brookshaw History Cambridge, Trinity
Thomas Brown European Business Studies Oxford Brookes
Sebastian Burrows Law Readina - ~-- - -
Stephen Callow History Bristol
Sarah Dewick Drama Studies
Queen Maraaret's. Edinburah " .2 Donovan English Cambridge, Emmanuel
Jones Computer Enaineerina Portsmouth sine Arc His
Christo~her Kina Phvsics Nottinaham 1199: U a- L-
Lau Chun Ho (Peter) Computing Wolverhampton
Andrew Loxley Mechanical Engineering Birmingham
Nicholas McEntvre Survevina & Ma~~inaScience Newcastle -
Andrew McFee Software Engineering John Moores, Liverpool U
Dominic Sarkar European Business Studies Oxford Brookes
Rijan Slater Business Leeds Metropolitan
Robert Webb Classics Cambridae. St.Johnls U. Jonathan Wheal English & Modern Languages Oxford, Wadham
Beniamin Winter Film Studies Sheffield Hallam,Zoe Witowski Sports Science Swansea
Editors:
Design and Typesetting: John Roslington
0.G: News: Michael Page Typing: Margaret Radnidge
Photography: Tom Bader, John Wheeler, Liz Hand (Front cover and Athletics), David Thurlby (House Drama), Ruth Reeves and Chris Woodcock (Junior School).
Printed by Hughes & Company, Kempsey, Worcestershire.
The Vigornian 1998 'Himalayan Experience' by Kafe Hickson
