OM Club News
January 2017
January 2017
Welcome from OM Club General Secretary, Mr Tim Dewes
Usually at this time of year we send you The Magazine, which includes articles about the School as well as an OM Club section. We have decided to move the publishing date of the full Magazine to September, therefore what you are receiving now is an interim collection of OM and OC news. I hope you will enjoy seeing what people have been up to in the last twelve months. The new Magazine that we will send you in September, published specifically for the OM Club, will give you an update from the School as well as news and events for OMs and OCs. We are still finalising the format for this new publication so, if there is anything
in particular you would like to see in it, please let us know by emailing oms@monkton.org.uk. The reason for the move to a September publishing date is so that it is in line with the start of the academic year. This will mean that we can give you a full update about what has happened at the School over the previous twelve months, an overview of what’s to come and an update about all of the OM Club events planned. We will continue to send the e-newsletters termly with more details about events and relevant updates, so please do keep us up to date with your latest email address via the email oms@monkton.org.uk. I hope that you will look forward to the new Magazine’s arrival in September!
A message from OM Club President, Dr Nigel Gough
It doesn’t seem possible that a year has passed since I was encouraging OMs to come to our lunch at Belcombe Court. We had an amazing turnout (even needing a waiting list, so familiar in my world of the NHS!). I was particularly pleased that so many “firsttimers” attended. Thank you for the many encouraging comments that we received following the event. This year we are having lunch in another beautiful venue, the Vicar’s Hall of Wells Cathedral. We will then have tours of the Cathedral in the afternoon followed by the opportunity to attend choral evensong. Full details can be found on page 4. Please can I particularly encourage the 1971-73 leavers to come down memory lane with me! 2
I welcome the move to publish our annual OM magazine to September, in order to have information relevant to OMs as well as up-to-date news of the School over the previous academic year. Next year, 2018, in the School’s 150th anniversary, I am sure many will be interested in attending some of the celebrations – a good reason to read the magazine in September! My “cherished” vinyl of the 1968 St Paul’s Cathedral centenary service is needing an updated companion. If any of you would like to put on events yourself, please get in touch. I look forward to seeing many of you on April 22nd 2017.
2016 Events round-up It was a busy year for the OM Club and here are some of the highlights:
April: OM President’s Lunch OM President, Dr Nigel Gough, hosted his first lunch in the beautiful setting of Belcombe Court, neatly tucked in a corner of Bradford on Avon. The owners kindly lent us out their home, in particular the Tithe Barn and gardens, so that we could gather and catch up at this popular event. Ninety five of us filled the historic barn after being treated to tours of the magnificent gardens, which include The Shell House and a statue by sculptor Anthony Gormley made entirely from wood blocks. We look forward to seeing many of you at this year’s lunch at Wells Cathedral, details of which can be found on page 4.
June: 30 years on - 1986 leavers
On 25th June 2016 there was a gathering of leavers on Longmead to celebrate their 30th anniversary of leaving School in 1986. It was great to see nearly 30 OMs returning, a number of whom had not been back to Monkton for many years - some, indeed, not since they left. Many memories were shared and friendships renewed.
July: 20 years on - 1996 Leavers
November: 2006 leavers
Monkton hosted the 2006 leavers 10 year reunion in November and a good time was had by all.
November:OCs 1970s Reunion Rachel Johnstone-Burt organised this event for OCs from the 1970s. There was much excited chatter from the ladies, a slideshow and video calls to S. Africa and the US with some who were unable to attend.
December: OM Club Carol Service July saw the 20 year OM reunion held at the School and was attended by a good number in warm weather. There were lots of opportunities to catch up with each other, and to meet some staff. Lunch was followed by a School tour, the first for a number of the group since they had left. Everyone agreed that they should reconvene in 5 years time and we hope to see a few more of the year group then - keep an eye on newsletters and future mailings for details.
September: 2011 leavers
We held our inaugural OM Club Carol Service on 8th December at St Michael’s Chester Square in London. This was a wonderful event which we look forward to repeating next year. We are hoping numbers will build for this event, so please look out for next December’s date and put it in your diary.
University Visits
Last term Tim Dewes visited OMs at three universities Cardiff, Leeds and Brighton. Each visit was good fun and it was a pleasure to see OMs thriving.
OM Sport
On the sporting front, 2016 saw OM hockey, cricket and golf take place and we look forward to adding rowing in 2017.
In September the 2011 leavers held a 5 year reunion at the Windmill Pub in Clapham which was well attended.
May I also commend to you the various OM activities which are lined up for the rest of this academic year and the exciting plans we have for our 150th year in 2018. We would love to see you at any OM occasion, details of which can be found in the following pages. Tim Dewes 3
OM Club Calendar of Events 2017 OM Club Events are open to all OMs, OCs and Hon OMs For more information or to book into any of these events please see insert or the school website www.monktoncombeschool.com, or contact Caroline Bone in the OM Office e: oms@monkton.org.uk T: 01225 721195, Monkton School, Church Lane, Monkton Combe, BATH, BA2 7HG
March Saturday 18th Mess Dinner 7.30pm Monkton Monkton CCF would like to invite all those serving or retired from the Armed Forces to attend the annual Mess Dinner Cost £25 Sunday 19th OM Hockey 11.00am Monkton All OM hockey players are invited to play against the school. Lunch will be provided. Free event
April Saturday 22nd OM President’s Lunch 12.00pm Wells Cathedral There will be an opportunity to tour the cathedral and stay for Evensong (Please book early as space is limited) Cost £35/person £5.70 for tours
May
Saturday 6th OM Rowing Saltford Rowing Club All rowers and their families are invited to be part of the School’s House Regatta. The afternoon will include rowing for OMs as well as School races to watch and will finish with a BBQ. Saturday 13th 1958 - 1962 Leavers Reunion 12.30pm Monkton A lunch will be held at Monkton for all those who left between 1958 and 1962 Cost TBC
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June Sunday 18th Gloucester Cricketer Trophy - OMs v King’s Gloucester Please come and support Saturday 24th OM Cricket 11.30am Monkton The traditional fixture v the School
July
Monday 3rd OM Golf 8.30am Wimbledon At the Royal Wimbledon Golf Course We hope this change of location will suit those OMs who are London based. Cost TBC Saturday 8th Grove House Reunion Monkton (This is a change from the originally published date owing to adjustments that have had to be made to the School’s programme of events) As OMs will know Grove is changing its identity next summer, though we all expect it to reappear in two or three year’s time. Some ex-Grove boys, led by Matt Paynter, are intending to hold a dinner to celebrate Grove past, present and future. Cost TBC
September Saturday 23rd 1987 Leavers Reunion lunch For those who left 30 years ago! Cost TBC Saturday 30th 2012 Leavers drinks Details to follow
12.30pm Monkton
7.00pm London
A milestone year approaches
January 2018 • Celebratory Opening Service • MPS House Music • Launch of a new history book February 2018 • Knight Lecture
As Monkton nears its 150th anniversary year, in 2018, we are excited to share with you just some of the exciting plans we have to commemorate this milestone year. In 2018 Monkton will celebrate 150 years of excellence in independent education. Since its founding by Rev Francis Pocock in 1868 Monkton has been one of the leading Christian boarding schools in the country. The sesquicentennial year runs from January 2018 – December 2018 and aims to provide a rich and diverse year of information and events to celebrate this important milestone in the School’s history. As well as Monkton celebrating 150 years, Clarendon, which merged with Monkton in 1992, also celebrates 120 years since its foundation in 1898. We are planning an exciting year of events throughout the year which will aim to: • Commemorate our rich heritage and history that formed the
foundations of a Monkton education. • Celebrate all that makes Monkton a unique and a fantastic
place for Christian education, where the uniqueness of every child is not only celebrated but encouraged. • Look forward to the next 150 years of the School’s future
ensuring we continue to offer the very best education to the next generation whilst staying true to the values instilled in Monkton by our Founder Rev Francis Pocock. We plan to collate a timeline of the School’s history and welcome stories and anecdotes from any who have a Monkton tale to tell as this will help to build a fuller picture of the School’s social history and celebrate everything that makes it so special. Your submission will be gratefully received, please email Caroline Bone on oms@monkton.org.uk with any images or tales. The year will include an inaugural and closing service, charity events, summer concert, a landmark Christian service, sporting events and much more. We look forward to sharing with you more plans and events as they unfold - keep an eye on our website, Facebook page and e-newsletters for regular updates.
March 2018 • OM Hockey and Netball
April 2018 • Whole School photo • OM President’s Lunch
May 2018 • CCF Inspection • MSS House Event • Monkton Triathlon
June 2018 • Summer Concert • Rowing Regatta • Christian Worship Event
July 2018 • Sports Day • 150th Ball • Overseas dinner &
marketing event Kenya
September 2018 • Lecture Series • MSS House Music • Whole School ‘Drung Run’
October 2018 • Overseas dinner & marketing
event Hong Kong • Science Day
November 2018 • Prep Schools Choral Day • Joint Concert
December 2018 • Advent Carols • Senior Drama Production • Abbey Carol Service
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OM and OC news If you have any news you would like to share, please email Caroline Bone at oms@monkton.org.uk
Rex Morgan (45) is living in New Zealand and will be celebrating his 90th birthday later this year. He is in good health and has fond memories of his war time days spent at Monkton. Donald Lovejoy (49) is living in Florida and still teaching at the age of 85. He retired as full-time Chair of Palm Beach Atlantic University Oceanography Department and now teaches a night class titled “Intro to Oceanography” as a part-time Adjunct Lecturer in the evening program for adults. Graham Cann (55) recently celebrated his 80th birthday at Celtic Manor in Newport. He was joined later by their granddaughter, who’s a vet, and their first great grandson! Roderick Ramoge (57) has written a short e-book entitled ‘The plays of William Shakespeare First Folio’. A booklet that retells Shakespeare’s plays in snippets of 101 words which is available on Amazon. Martin Adeney (60) published his latest book ‘Baggage of Empire - reporting politics, and industry in the shadow of imperial decline’. He also regularly contributes to The Guardian’s obituary columns and The Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Gordon Lowe (64) published his latest book ‘The Black Panther’ on 3rd November 2016 - the story of Donald Neilson, best known for the kidnap and murder of Lesley Whittle in 1975. David Preston (69) recorded his third album of worship songs entitled ’Forgive Me Lord’. He has an amazing story to tell of the gift of music coming when he was aged 59. If you would like to hear more about this he would be delighted to come and talk at your church. Please visit www.davidprestonmusic.org.uk for more information or email him on drdmpreston@btinternet.com 6
Peter Mann (70) spent 40 years in Hong Kong. His book, ‘Sheriff of Wan Chai’ about his time in the Royal HK Police and the Administrative Service of the HK Government, including his posting as District Officer in Wan Chai, was published in October 2016. Nicholas Hayward-Young (77) is a folk, blues & acoustic roots influenced musician who launched his debut album in 2015 entitled ‘Palomino’. You can read more about him and sample his music at www.nickhaywardyoung.com. Peter Blair (78) has been appointed as a Senior Circuit Judge based at Bristol Crown Court by The Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, with effect from 9 January 2017. Andy Fussell (84) celebrated the opening of his latest venture in summer 2016, Fussels Fine Foods Kitchen in Rode. This is a new food and community initiative that will offer a range of food and family-based activities, including demonstrations, masterclasses, social evenings, cookery for children, family days on the farm and more. Justin Byron-Davies (96) attended his doctoral graduation on the 8th April 2016, having been awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Surrey in the area of late-medieval English literature. His doctoral thesis was entitled ‘The Influence of the Biblical Apocalypse upon Julian of Norwich’s Revelations of Love and William Langland’s Piers Plowman’. During his time at the University of Surrey, Justin taught undergraduates and continued his book editing work. He has delivered a number of academic conference papers, including one to the International Anchoritic Society, and has had chapters on the subject of Julian of Norwich published in both Magistra: A Journal of Women’s Spirituality, and a multi-disciplinary volume entitled Writing the Lives of People and Things, AD 500–1700: A Multi-disciplinary Future for Biography (Ashgate, 2016). Justin is currently working on a monograph, which is to be based upon the subject of his thesis, for the University of Wales Press, as well as undertaking further postdoctoral level research on other writers within his period of interest.
Births To Eily Flucker née Quayle (96) and her husband a son, Tobias, born June 2016. To Laura Wood nee Paine (96) and Duncan a son, Simeon Baxter, born 7th June 2016, a brother for Elliot, Theo and Dominic.
Mike Tufnell (99) was interviewed in 2016 for a BBC Songs of Praise feature on planting new congregations and making better use of ailing or disused churches. It showed the new young congregation meeting in a plastic tent within the older barn-like building of St Alban’s, Acton Green in London. Ama Agbeze (02) captained England Netball Team to win the title at the European Tournament in May 2016. Louisa Nairne (03) was awarded ‘Best Supporting Actress’ for her part in ‘Superboy’ at the LA Film Festival in 2016. Roo Panes (06) released a new album ‘Paperweights’ in 2016. Roo came back to Monkton and performed for pupils, parents and staff at the Prep School in the summer 2016. Martha Huntley (previously known as Botton) (08) won best newcomer in the Institute of Fundraising Awards in 2016, for her work with Hand in Hand International. Martha started with the charity in 2015 and by the following year she had raised US$2.1million. Not bad for Hand in Hand International’s youngest employee!
To Philipp Schuch (98) and his wife a son, Jonathan Paul Wilhelm Schuh, born 20th August 2015.
James Wright (10) after completing a business degree course at Chichester, he has now realised his dream of being a farmer. Starting with two pigs he purchased whilst still a student he now farms sheep as well. In October 2016 he was shortlisted in the New Entrants category at the British Farming Awards.
Hon OMs
Norman Botton, former Head of History was selected to play in the England over 60s cricket team in Australia in November.
To Hannah Vaughan Williams (05) and Tom a daughter, Alma Kate Mair, born 14th February 2016.
Joe Smith, formerly Head of English and Houseparent of Farm House, was appointed Head of The Oratory School from September 2016. He has been Head of The Oratory Prep School since 2010, but in September he moved up to be Head of the Senior School.
OJs (Old Juniors)
Jonathan Lynn wrote a moving piece on his friendship with the late Sir Antony Jay who died in August 2016. The pair co-authored ‘Yes Prime Minister’ after they met when Antony started the management training film company Video Arts with several partners, including John Cleese, who asked Jonathan to act in a film. Jonathan and Antony worked together from the early 1970s until four years ago when Antony’s health began to decline.
To Alex Riecke (03) and Annika a son, Benedikt Alexander, born 22nd February 2016, a brother for Theodore. 7
Marriages
Dan Whiting (01) married Natasha Taraskevics on Saturday 28th May 2016 at Great Chalfield Manor and Gardens, near Bath. OMs present were: Paul Atwell (99), James Binns (01), Paris Kaplanidis-Hearn (02), Henry Leighton (OJ), Ralph Mercer (02), Jack Nicholas (01), Daniel Reid (02), Peter Riera (02), Hugh Rittner (01) and Tristan Saunders(01).
Ed Llewellyn-Evans (04) married Lesley-Anne on Saturday 5th November 2016 at Woburn Abbey.
Jemima Sohn nee Green (06) married Mike Sohn on Saturday 27th August 2016 in Tiverton, Devon. OMs present were: Tristan Bertie (72), Ed Green (01), Martyn Green (72), Richard Green (74), Tom Green (03), Rosie Herbert (05), Sarah Hill nee Springett (05), Mike Knight (05), Richard Perkins (88), George Purves (05) and Simon Stephens (05). Barnie Page (06) married Sarah in Summer 2016.
Edward Merricks (07) married Elishia Chave on Saturday 9th July 2016 in Devon. The Best Men were Stefan Horner (07) and William Sibley (07), and Barnabas Kirk (07) was an usher. OMs, and Hon OMs, present were Henry Boydell (07), Connor Butler Kitto (07), Kate Crowley nee Merricks (03), Matt Markham (07), Ben Mayhew (07), David (Hon OM) & Carol (Hon OM) Merricks, Jonathan Quayle (07), Luke Saunders (07) and David (Hon OM) & Sarah Sibley. Edward and Elishia are now living in New York where he is employed as a postdoc Research Scientist at Columbia University, having recently been awarded a PhD in Neuroscience by Newcastle University.
Jessica Dewes (06) married Ben Thomas on Saturday 6th August 2016 at Holy Trinity, Combe Down. The reception was held on Longmead at Monkton. 8
Jonty Langham (08) married Rachel Long on Saturday 30th July 2016.
James Womersley (08) married Saskia on the Saturday 13th August 2016.
Oli Burnham (09) married Katie Poll (09) on Saturday 6th August 2016. Florence Wood (10) married Dave Cassell on Saturday 30th April 2016 at Christ Church, Spitalfields.
Tim Jameson (11) married Abi Beach (11) on Saturday 30th July 2016. Beej Harris (10) married Arabella Pemberton on Saturday 30th July 2016.
Ed Vickers (10) married Abby Wynn (10) on Saturday 30th April 2016 at Holy Trinity Brompton.
Megan Davies (12) married Matthew Archer on Saturday 24th September 2016 at King’s Church Lewes, the reception was held in Alfriston, East Sussex. A number of OMs attended. 9
OM obituaries
at the School of Artillery, Larkhill, and farmed near the New Forest until 1979 when he started restoring antique furniture. In 1997, he moved to Winchester.
Sidney Fussell (39) passed away peacefully at home on the weekend of 19th November 2016, aged 95. He was a member of an extensive Monkton family. Although he trained as an accountant, and worked in Bristol for Tribe, Clarke & Co. and then with Sidney Fussell & Sons, he later moved into the brewing industry and was part of the Whitbread group for many years.
He married Veronica Cuffe in 1951. She predeceased him and he is survived by their three sons; one of them served in the Life Guards from 1978 to 1982.
The Honorable Andrew Thompson (39) passed away on 3rd February 2016 after a courageous and ongoing battle with ill-health. Born on 14th December 1924 in Belfast, Ireland and later immigrating to Canada, Andrew served honourably in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II before completing his education at Queen’s University and the University of British Columbia, receiving a Masters in Social Work. Andrew dedicated his life to public service and began his political career in 1959. He worked under Lester B. “Mike” Pearson, Prime Minister from 1963 to 1964. He continued his career within the Ontario legislature as a Liberal Member of Provincial Parliament and assumed the role of Party Leader from 1964 to 1966. He resumed his role in public life as a Federal Senator from 1967 to 1998 before having to reluctantly concede to recurring health problems and retire from the Senate. Andrew had fond memories of Monkton which stirred him to consider launching a Canadian OM Club, he even invited Mr Lace to fly out but unfortunately he was unable to make the trip. Twelve years ago having become disenchanted with the Canadian political situation he and his wife moved to Mexico where he concentrated on collecting surplus hospital beds and surgical equipment from Canada to help the local desperately under-resourced hospitals. Andrew is missed by his wife Amy, his daughter Anya Seaban and granddaughter Sioban Nadia Seaban. He will be fondly remembered as a kind and caring individual and a tireless advocate for public fairness and rights. Gresham Stuart Edward Paske (Sam) (40) passed away suddenly on 30th August 2016 aged 94. Gresham took part in the liberation of Brussels, the advance to Nijmegen, the forced crossing of the Rhine and the Battle of the Ardennes. One night, he and a brother officer made their way to an abandoned farm in search of a pig. They came across a group of German soldiers who were on a similar mission. Nobody was armed, so each party captured a pig and returned to base. One of Paske’s crew was a butcher from Taunton in civilian life and he organised a splendid feast. As a gunner officer he was awarded the MC in the last 10 days of the war in Europe. After the German surrender, Paske served in the Canal Zone, Palestine and Tripoli before instructing at Mons Officer Cadet School. Regimental duties then took him to Malta, then to BAOR and, subsequently, Korea with 42 FR. He retired from the Army in 1958 after four years 10
For a comprehensive obituary please see the Telegraph obituary. John George Ridd (43) passed away at home on 16th August 2016 aged 91 years. A much loved dad and grandfather who will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Susannah, George and all the family. Now reunited with his much missed wife, June. David Wilkinson (41) passed away peacefully at home on the 17th October 2016 aged 92. A very proud Old Monktonian who enjoyed pretty good health until the end of his life. He developed a keen interest in languages whilst at Monkton, learning Russian (self-taught) from age 14 and this lead him to a lifelong interest in learning very many languages. He also amassed vast knowledge of the grammars of hundreds of languages and the relationships between them. He was still actively working as a translator, of mainly Bible scriptures, until the day of his death having remained extremely mentally agile. Keith Batten (42) CBE, KStJ and Chevalier Order Of The Holy Sepulchre, FRCS, FRCOph, passed away on 18th October 2016. Beloved husband of Patricia, much-loved father of Ann and Jane, grandfather and great-grandfather. Christopher Biddell (45) BA, MA Ridley Hall Cambridge, passed away on the 18th February 2016. Christopher followed an older brother, Hugh, to Monkton. The youngest of a clerical family, of three brothers and two sisters, whose father was Vicar of Sandown on the Isle of Wight, like his brothers he was ordained. His mother was a Bickersteth with many family connections to the Church Missionary Society. He had been the organist at Monkton and was able to continue his love of the instrument by becoming organ scholar at Christ’s, accompanying the College choir at their first broadcast performance. He was also a member of the Original Christian Minstrels. He read Greats at Christ’s and was the leader of the chorus when The Frogs of Aristophanes was performed under the supervision of J.T. Sheppard. This took place in an icy Cambridge theatre, since coal was still rationed. He was very pleased to be commended in The Times for his part. As a boy he was fascinated by the liners which crossed Sandown Bay and was able to enjoy a year in the merchant navy where he served as an assistant purser and on the crack liner the The Ranchi. He returned to live in the Isle of Wight after his marriage to his wife, Barbara, in 1956, and here his three children, Jane, William and Adrian were born. In all his parishes he maintained a high standard of music with boys and
men’s choirs in the Anglican tradition. He was involved in the restoration of two of his church organs, at Bishop’s Waltham where a concert in aid of the organ fund was given by world famous oboeist Léon Goossens CBE. The first recital after the restoration was given by the legendary organist and composer Dr George Thalben-Ball CBE of the Temple Church. Christopher valued tradition and ritual and had the pleasure of working at Chester Cathedral with Canon Bill Vanstone, author of Love’s Endeavour, Love’s Expense. The gates to Tillington churchyard have been rebuilt in his memory with oak given by Lord Leconfield. The opening gates symbolise the many people whom Christopher guided into the church. Ian Lang (46) passed away on 14th October 2016 aged 88. Ian studied Estates Management at Caius College Cambridge, where he also gained a rowing blue and became President of the Cambridge University Boat Club. He was part of the Olympic Squad in the 1948 Olympic Games in London as spare man. Ramsay Shewell-Cooper (48) passed away on 23rd September 2016 aged 86. Ramsay was a regular at OM events and always enjoyed catching up with Alumni. He had the same great love for horticulture as his father who had written many books on the subject. He was Master of the Worshipful Company of Gardeners and was Director of the Arkley Golf Club from 1991 to 1996. Francis Martin (45) passed away on the 2nd July. Martin lived and worked in Sweden for most of his life. Dr Richard Cooper (49) passed away on Monday 9th January 2017 aged 83. Dr Richard Nugent Cooper MB. BS. D.Obst R.C.O.G. attended the Pre-Prep School at Glenburnie, Combe Down, from age 5 (1938). He progressed through the Junior School and Senior School, leaving in 1949. He went on to study medicine at University College Hospital specialising in dermatology and general medicine. He moved from hospital work to general practice in 1962 and retired in 1990. Roger Casswell (54) passed away on 10th February 2016 aged 78 at Oldbury Grange Care Home, Bridgnorth, following a very long illness. Roger will be sadly missed by Anita, William, Tom and the Family. Patrick Darling (63) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on 16th March 2016 aged 71. Husband of Lisa, father of Melissa and Jonathan and brother of Coralie. Patrick was an Agricultural SocialEconomist and carried out nationwide surveys and project work in Kenya, Ethiopia, Mali and Nigeria on small-holder farmers, blacksmith co-operatives, structural adjustment and the environment, and rural forestry. He was part of the Conservation Sciences department at Bournemouth University.
Peter Nicholas James (65) passed away in Perth, Western Australia on 14th May 2016 at the age of 69. Peter went to Cambridge after leaving Monkton where he obtained a degree in Natural Sciences. He lived in Perth where he worked as a Haemotologist for a private firm for fortytwo years prior to his retirement in 2014. He married an Australian, Val with whom he had three children. The whole family visited this country on a regular basis. Richard Ducker (87) passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on 13th April 2016. His funeral took place in San Francisco and a memorial service was held in St. Helen’s, Bishopsgate. Foremost Richard was a true disciple of Christ, and his faith was central in all his life. This was evident in the tributes to him. They not only talked of his incredible and outstanding talent, but also of his kindness, generosity of spirit and the support and inspiration he gave to his colleagues. At Monkton he was an accomplished sportsman rowing for the first eight. Upon leaving School he went on to study Product Design while also pursuing another love, that of sports cars, renovating a Triumph Spitfire to pristine condition, using his mother’s kitchen as a mechanics workshop. On leaving college his talents emerged as a Visual Effects Artist, pursuing a career in TV then in Film, receiving an Emmy award early on for his work on ‘Walking with Dinosaurs’ (1999). He then went on to settle in the US to work as a Technical Director for ILM, on almost every block buster film made between 2001 and 2010, also managing to find time to do a little ‘extras’ work on Star Wars episode 2, as a Jedi! More recently he had been working with a group of former colleagues in a start up Visual Effects company. Above all he was a devoted husband and father, leaving behind a legacy of faith, creativity and humour for his family and all who knew him.
OC obituaries Dorothy Evans, former Monkton Governor passed away on the 6th November 2016 aged 89. Dorothy was Vice Principal of St Paul and St Mary in Cheltenham. She was awarded an MBE in 1989 for educational services to St Helena the island in the South Atlantic. She also had associations with Tristan de Cunha and the Falkland Islands. In later life she enjoyed being involved with a number of committees including Wallingford Rotary Club, Oxford National Trust, Oxford Preservation Trust, and her church and Cowley Deanery Synod. She also very much enjoyed the Homerton Oxford Branch meetings.
Honorary OM obituaries David Trentham passed away on the 30th June 2016. David came to Monkton in January 1967, intending to fill a two term vacancy, and stayed on for seven more years as tutor to Grange House and Second Master to Dick Knight, and during that time he married Val, who was teaching at Glenburnie. 11
One former pupil remembers David being held in very high regard by boys and staff alike, for his fair approach to pupils and issues, and for his Christian integrity. He ran a Bible Study and was fully involved in School life. One of his former tutees writes “he was much more than just a tutor he was someone who took the idea of ‘in loco parentis’ extremely seriously. David nudged me towards O and A-level subjects, university and career decisions that stretched me - because he was concerned to really know his tutees, academically and personally, to accurately and fairly assess their strengths and weaknesses, and advise them accordingly to the very best of his ability.” After Monkton, David taught at several other schools, including a spell as Head of a small 11-16 Christian School run by a group of churches in Southampton. In 1991 he and the family moved back to Bath and David finished his teaching career as Head of Humanities at St Mark’s, on the east side of the city. David had several health challenges during his retirement, but, typically, was able to say a year or two ago “Val and I have valued each of our different experiences and have found God to be completely faithful to us in them all”.
Chenie Watson, widow of Thomas Watson former Housemaster of Eddystone House passed away on Thursday 21st July at her Care Home, Queensbridge in Cheltenham. She died peacefully after a long, happy life and will be missed by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Tony Raymond Bull FRCS (OM 52) Tony Raymond Bull died peacefully on 19th April 2016 aged 81. Much loved husband to Jill, father to Amanda, Karen and Antony and grandfather to Claudia, Cessa, Olivia, Lara, Francesca, and Lydia. Tony was born on 21st December 1934, the son of a dentist. He was sent to Monkton at the surprisingly young age of 5. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, he appears to have flourished at Monkton, where he excelled both academically and on the sports field, with a gift for both tennis and hockey, playing tennis for Somerset and hockey at county level for Essex and at national level for Wales. His medical training was undertaken at The London Hospital and after working in Jamaica, he was appointed as a consultant surgeon to The Royal National Throat Nose and Ear Hospital before the age of 30. He was also appointed to St Mary Abbots Hospital in Kensington, which continued the tradition of the Metropolitan ENT Hospital - the first hospital of its kind in the world. The department was later moved to Charing Cross Hospital. Although he will undoubtedly be remembered for the important role he has played in advancing facial plastic surgery, he was also a gifted otologist and was elected as President to the Section of Otology at the Royal Society of Medicine. He will probably be remembered best however for the role he played in advancing nasal plastic surgery. In 1970 he established the rhinoplasty course at The Institute of Laryngology and Otology. He had close connections with colleagues in the USA 12
and was aware that they had established an American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery. Together with his friend and colleague Professor Claus Walter he set about establishing the European Academy. Initially this was named the Joseph Society on the basis that some felt the word Academy was inappropriate, and the first meeting took place in London in 1977. A few years later the name was changed to that which had been originally suggested, the European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgeons (EAFPS) and it is as this it has continued to expand and flourish. He was elected President of the EAFPS and in due course the President of the International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgical Societies. In addition to his book on speech therapy, he wrote many scientific papers, chapters in numerous textbooks and was author or co-author of many others including several editions of Scott-Brown’s Otolaryngology. Together with Eugene Tardy he co-edited ‘Facial Plastic Surgery’, His ‘Colour Atlas of ENT’, first published in 1974 and translated into numerous languages is now in its 5th edition which continues to be a bestseller worldwide. He was a member of Queens Tennis Club and the MCC and regularly attended test matches at Lords. He was a huge fan of boxing and it was not at all unusual for him to fly off to Las Vegas with tickets to see the latest world title fight and he remained a keen golfer to the end. He will be remembered as a surgical pioneer, a great teacher and brilliant lecturer, popular and respected by his colleagues. He will be deeply missed.
Michael Ascott (OM 50) Michael Ascott passed away peacefully on 8th September 2016 at home after a short battle with cancer. Michael came to Monkton from Brazil, where his father Alfred spent his working life, in September 1945 and made the most of his time at the School playing rugby, rowing and singing in the School choir. He was known by the nickname ‘Tub’ on account of his shape and it was while at Monkton that he decided to train as an architect. On moving to London to train at the Architectural Association, he continued his choral interests at Christ Church in Crouch End where he met Stella in the choir and they married in 1954. Michael’s career included positions at Regents Park Zoo, where he was involved in the design of the famous aviary, and the Norman and Dawbarn practice in both London and Wolverhampton offices. Whilst working on a new Shopping Centre in Telford, Michael came into contact with Southport architects, Norman Jones Sons and Rigby (NJSR) who offered him a position in their practice and he was made a partner in 1981. Michael gained the reputation of being a highly respected architect in one of the foremost practices in the North West of England.
Possibly Michael’s greatest achievement was his work for the annual Southport Flower Show which was on the point of being discontinued by Sefton Council when a group of local businessmen stepped in to ensure this did not happen reviving it into the great success it is today. Michael served as a Director between 1989 and 2002 and led the group that redesigned Southport’s Victoria Park into its present enclosed event site and was the architect responsible for the offices on the park creating a building of distinction. Southport’s Queenscourt Hospice became a charity very close to Michael’s heart after NJSR designed the Hospice and he worked assiduously for Queenscourt for many years. He was a very effective Chairman of the Birkdale Support Group and during this time helped to raise several hundred thousand pounds for the Hospice where sadly Stella died in 2006. Despite failing health, he continued to be positive, taking holidays with his grown-up children to Madeira where he had spent so many happy times with Stella, making marmalade as Stella had done previously and showing a keen interest in everyday life.
Joy Paterson (OC 47) Joy Paterson died on 1st April 2016 aged 87. Her brother Douglas writes “She was at Clarendon in Malvern from May 1939 to July 1947. At first she counted the seconds till she came home, but when she left she wept. It was Miss Pike’s wonderful walks that helped her to settle. Clarendon had an indelible influence on her life; there she came to a living faith in Jesus as her personal Saviour and Lord, which was the foundation and centre of her life. There she met Betty Miller (nee Scott), they were in ‘the study’ together, and continued a close friendship for the rest of her life, which meant much to her. There she began to play hockey, at which she excelled, becoming Captain, as she did also at Cambridge, where she led the University to victory over the ‘other place’ (Oxford) in her final year. In her last year at Clarendon she instigated athletic sports, by pressing the games mistress to do so! She went back after she left to see that they were continued. At Clarendon she began her interest and deep concern for Ethiopia, being at Clarendon with the granddaughters of the Emperor Haile Selassie. When they and others
were imprisoned with the Communists’ overthrow of the Emperor, she gave herself to ‘The Cause’, galvanising prayer for them, helping to raise financial support, and seeking to bring pressure for their release. She continued sending food parcels to Jember Teferra (OC 61), who spoke at her funeral, until she went into hospital in September 2015. In 1947 she joined Princess Aida Desta (OC) at Newham College, Cambridge to study Natural Sciences in preparation for her medical vocation. She did her clinical medicine at Bristol (she went there as it was easier than London for playing hockey!); and after various house jobs specialised in geriatrics, mainly in Edinburgh and Glasgow. She lived in a flat in Bearsden till her retirement in 1988, when she continued her caring ministry, taking people out into the wonderful countryside of the North. She was most generous in supporting people. She maintained a deep affection for her old School and one of the hymns she chose for her funeral was one that had been sung at a reunion back in Malvern, ‘Great is Thy Faithfulness’. She is greatly missed by friends and family but we know she is in a better place. 13
Charles Grimwade (Hon OM) Charles joined the staff at Monkton in 1948. Like many schoolmasters of his generation, he became involved in several departments and activities at Monkton. He was paid (termly, in arrears) to teach English and PE. He wondered on the Sunday before his first term whether his Monkton career was going to be over before it began. After Staff Chapel he was enjoying a pipe in the Farmyard when he was accosted by a senior member of the Monkton community who advised that smoking after Chapel was not the way Monkton staff behaved. When Charles continued he was told that the Head Master would be informed. The next morning, fearing the worst, he was summoned by Derek Wigram who said ‘Please do carry on lightening things up - that’s why I appointed you’. Before Charles’ arrival PT had been a regimented drill session under the direction of Sergeant Major Hanney. Changing the name to PE the range of activities widened and extended to keeping a watchful eye on the health of each pupil with weighing and measuring at the start and end of each term, lung capacity tests and remedial exercises for flat feet. How did Charles find the time to fit it all in? He had many talents: he played in the School orchestra, he had a fine baritone voice and was very much involved in School productions. He also produced School plays including a memorable “A Man for All Seasons”. Many years later, when well into his 80’s, he was the driving force behind a music club in Taunton which gave young professionals opportunities to perform. Charles was one of the rowing coaches who gave Monkton a string of excellent results in the early 1950s. He organised the first rowing training camps for Monkton crews and took the First VIII to Copenhagen. He was not burdened with the administrative load carried by today’s leaders of School activities; there was far less red tape and little competition outside School, except for the top crew. However, he was meticulous about writing to thank the secretary of every regatta attended. He founded Monkton Bluefriars Boat Club, a flag of convenience which enabled former members of MCSBC to meet socially without interfering with allegiances to other clubs; current School crews rowed as Bluefriars during School holidays. He ran School House for a few years. His influence there was dramatic and long lasting. He set a tone that was very different from what he took over and can still be seen in the current house. As in other aspects of School life, he worked beside pupils in a relaxed and encouraging way, getting the best out of people without apparent effort. 14
In 1970, he left Monkton while still in his prime to take up a career in the racing industry. He ran a small stud not far from Bath for a while, then moved to a bigger enterprise near Taunton. It was during this time that he privately expressed regrets about leaving Monkton early. He was perhaps too gentle a man to thrive in the cut and thrust of the horseracing world. The thoroughbreds under his management were well looked after but the business struggled financially and from that point of view was not a great success. He was one of the honest people in the industry and his high standards both as a schoolmaster and a stud manager were passed on to his children and grandchildren whose careers have spanned stud management for HM The Queen and the Sheik of Dubai and teaching children in care. He was immensely proud of his family and their achievements. Charles and Pauline were happily married for 59 years. He took care of her lovingly through her last years of illness. During this time his qualities of patience, kindness and persistence shone through; there was never a cross word but plenty of banter as there always had been. He was grateful for the marvellous support and help given by members of his small village who rallied round at difficult times. Only a few days before he died, he and his family were thrilled to hear that the captains of the Boat Club at School had decided that the name of the new 1st VIII boat should be Charles Grimwade.
A few personal recollections contributed by colleagues and pupils: ‘There was always a welcome from Pauline and Charles. They were the first to meet me when I arrived at Monkton, and some 50 years later the door was ever open at their little cottage in Halse, and there was interesting conversation to go with tea (bread made by Charles, cakes by Pauline) . He was always concerned for the welfare of Monkton and happily talked over old times.’ ‘Shag, as he was affectionately known, was the sort of person a young boy would never forget. He was kind, always interested in you as a person. He liked team players. He was immensely patient. He obviously enjoyed his job as a teacher, rowing coach and all the other things he threw himself into. In short for pupils at the time he was simply part of the fabric of Monkton. He was an inspiration to many and I was one of the lucky ones who experienced his charm, generosity of spirit and leadership.’
‘There was absolutely no pomposity about him. In recent years certainly and perhaps during School time as well, except on the most important of occasions his customary dress was a worn-out Leander Blazer and a pair of ill-fitting trousers which were hitched up with a piece of string or binder twine.’
Charles’ last official Monkton event was in 2013 when he was the guest of honour at Leander Club for the 60th anniversary dinner of the 1953 and 1954 Eights. The barman at Leander commented that he had experienced a few Diamond Jubilee dinners but never one at which the crew’s coach was present.
Opportunities at Monkton ICT Network Manager Permanent Appointment
Closing date: Friday 17th February 2017@ 5pm Interviews: Week commencing 27th February 2017 Monkton School is seeking to appoint for April 2017 or as soon as possible after an experienced and innovative ICT Network Manager. This is an exciting role working closely with the recently appointed Director of Digital Learning to impact the strategic direction of ICT Services across a large site, consisting of three schools. Monkton is committed to investing significantly in IT over the next few years and this role will be at the heart of the decision making and procurement processes. We are looking to appoint an experienced candidate who is comfortable working in a fastpaced environment and is able to deliver a first class support service. The successful candidate will be a talented and committed individual with a ‘hands-on’ approach to their work and experience of working across platforms. They would lead a
Assistant ICT Technician Permanent Appointment
Closing date: Friday 10th February 2017 @ 5pm Interviews: Week commencing 13th February 2017 (if required week commencing 20th February 2017) This is an exciting role, joining an expanding team of technicians, to support a school looking to establish itself as a market leader in its use of ICT over the next few years. They will work closely with the Network Manager and learn from their experience and that of the other highly capable members of the team. The school is looking to invest significantly in ICT and will provide training opportunities to further develop any successful applicant. The post would suit someone new to the profession or an experienced person looking for a new challenge; however they should have some technical ability and a willingness to learn. Their focus must
Graduate Teaching Assistants Fixed term 1 year contract
We are seeking Graduate Teaching Assistants for a one year fixed term contract for the 2017-2018 academic year. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals to gain experience of working with young people within a supportive school environment. Our passionate and motivated Graduate Teaching Assistants play an important part in the Pastoral and Academic teams at Monkton by helping with various activities during the school day, and as a resident on site to
committed team of technicians, who enjoy a very varied role with tasks including everything from providing classroom support, to developing and administering the network and server infrastructure. They will also need to be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and students with differing levels of IT skills. Monkton Combe School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. To apply please send a completed application form and letter of application to the PA to the Principal no later than 5pm on Friday 17th February 2017. For further information or an informal discussion regarding the role please contact the HR Manager on 01225 721149. Contact our HR Manager if you are interested in this post. Email: recruitment@monkton.org.uk Telephone: 01225 721149 be on delivering high levels of service to the teachers, support staff and pupils within the school and as such will need good interpersonal skills. Monkton School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. To apply please send a completed application form and letter of application to the HR Manager no later than 5pm on Friday 10th February 2017. For further information or an informal discussion regarding the role please contact the HR Manager on 01225 721149. Contact: HR Manager Email: hrmanager@monkton.org.uk Telephone: 01225 721149 Address: Monkton School, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HG help care for the boarders after the academic day has finished and at the weekends. Monkton is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. Contact our HR Manager if you are interested in this post. Email: recruitment@monkton.org.uk Telephone: 01225 721149
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Monkton Bath, England
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