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Contents: Commemoration Day 2007 Sunday 1st July 2007 page 5 Vice-Presidents’ Luncheon Friday 22 June 25 2007 page 6 OBA U30s Drinks Tuesday, 20th March 2007 page 8 London Drinks 20th March 2007 page 11 London Drinks 18th September 2007 page 14 The Lashings XI return to BC 21st June 2007 page 20 OBRUFC reach semis 2nd September 2007 back page OBA Office: Brighton College Eastern Road Brighton BN2 0AL t: +44 (0)1273 704250 (Direct line) t: +44 (0)1273 704200 (switchboard) f: +44 (0)1273 704326 e: oba@brightoncollege.net Office hours : 8.30am to 12.30pm (Mon to Fri)
Website & Magazine Produced by Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83), 3B Web Design - www.3bweb.com - (07957 162168)
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OBA Committee: President & AROPS Rep: David Gold (S. 1986-91) Hon. Secretary: Tim Loadsman (L. 1951-57) Hon. Treasurer: Paul Lobo (C. 1976-81) Administrator: Fiona Aiken (F. 1979-81) Headmaster: Richard Cairns (ex offico) Parent Rep: Della Keighley Council Rep: Andrew Symonds (A. 1955-59) Chris Pett (H. 1962-67) Giles Stubbs (R. 1997-02) Nicky Stanton (W. 2001-03) Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83) Sports Rep: John Aiken (A. 1976-81 - ex offico) Head of School: Stephanie Mitchell Deputies: Hannah Edmond & Morgan Griffiths
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Dear Old Brightonians, When I set out my plans to Fiona Aiken shortly after I took up the reins three years ago, she let out a big sigh before politely informing me she’d heard it all before and I shouldn’t expect miracles. Now it is Fiona who tells me to have faith and be brave! It has been one of my biggest priorities over the last 3 years to better integrate the OBA with College life and to demonstrate our worth to the College. I’m not sure I have fully achieved that but I think we have made progress. All College Staff, from dinner ladies to Latin teachers, now become honorary life members after 2 years service. We place students in work experience, source speakers for College events, sponsor overseas rugby and netball tours, and have a higher profile at major College events. The restoration of Commemoration Day to the Summer, combined with the Graduation of the Upper Sixth, was a great success this year and will be even bigger in 2008; and many OBs have individually contributed to the new pavilion which will soon grace the Home Ground, providing much needed facilities for the College’s internationally acclaimed sportsmen and women. We also have three College students on the OBA Committee, which I think is of great benefit. There have been new events such as the Pioneers Luncheon in Hove and the Vice-Presidents’ Luncheon at the Army & Navy Club in London. The informal London Drinks have continued to prosper and the Annual Dinner now regularly attracts in excess of 150 guests of all ages. Improved communication has been a major aim. Our website has been overhauled and attracts thousands – yes, thousands – of hits monthly from across the world. We have initiated the International Friends of Brighton College which will bring more distant OBs
closer to home in spirit if not geographically, and for the first time will make the parents of OBs a part of our community. Monthly e-newsletters, direct mail to year groups and other initiatives have helped us reach people who have not been in touch for decades. The Old Brightonians’ future lies in a much closer relationship with the College. How we achieve that is for further discussion, but it is our duty to do all we can to support the College’s work using the knowledge and experience we have gained both during our time here and since leaving. In handing over to Tony Whitestone in November I have every confidence that the OBA will become stronger. I would like to thank all those who have worked with me on the Committee and through the sports clubs, the Lodge, and the various informal groupings within the Association over the past 3 years. It has been an enjoyable challenge. I would also like to thank Fiona Aiken for her dedication and straight talking. In my role as Development Director at the College I will remain involved in the Association and look forward to working with Tony to take the OBA to even greater heights.
David Gold (S. 1986-91) President of OBA (2004-07)
Joyce Heater’s “Images of England - Brighton College” On behalf of the Old Brightonians, Joyce Heater (College Archivist) has compiled this fascinating collection of photographs and prints from the archives which tells the history of Brighton College from its foundation in the early years of Queen Victoria’s reign to the present day. It chronicles its evolution from a small public school for boys to the vibrant co-educational community which was recently described in The Times as `One of England’s leading schools’. Readers will discover how the fortunes of the college have at various times in its
history been closely linked with those of the town. The story of both might have been very different had there been sufficient money available in 1845 for the new educational institution to have established itself in the Royal Pavilion. The most recognisable symbol of the town was up for sale and the founders of the college were looking for a suitable site! This history should prove of interest to all those connected with the college - staff, pupils and parents, past and present. It should also attract a wider readership from those who wish to learn more about a Brighton landmark which has been in existence for over 16o years and has stood the test of time. Joyce Heater’s first contact with Brighton College was as a parent when her son Michael entered the Junior School in 1973. He was later a member of Hampden House from 1978 - 83. Joyce had read History at University College London and, after taking
time out to bring up her children, she returned to teaching. In January 1980 she was appointed to the staff of the Junior School. There she became head of History and was for some years form mistress of IIIA. She retired in 1996 but taught history part-time in the Senior School until 2004. She accepted Anthony Seldon’s invitation to become the Honorary College Archivist, and it is in this capacity that she agreed to write the pictorial history for the Association from which all profits will benefit the Kingsford Scholarship Fund which enables talented students from East London to join the College for the Sixth Form who would otherwise not be able to afford to do so. Buy signed copies (£12.99) at: www. oldbrightonians.com/oba_shop_01.htm Pelican Magazine, September 2007 page 3
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News in brief
Ben Hamps (C. 1988-93 - above) posted: 27th August 2007 Now working for British Airways as a First Officer based at Heathrow on the 757/767 fleet flying a mixture of shorthaul and longhaul to Europe, Africa and North America. Married Holly Straker on August 11th 2007. OBs present on day: Leo Mckeague (S: 1988-91), John Cusack (C: 1988-91), Andy Lulsegged (S: 1988-91), Chris Collins (S: 1988-93), James Bettle (C: 1988-93). Now living in Reigate, Surrey. Kim Hudson (A/S. 1969-74) posted: 24th July 2007 After 20 years in South Africa I am returning to England in August where I will initially be based in Shoreham. I am also trying to track down Brian Toplis (S 196873) if anyone has news please contact me via email. Geoff Bailey (A. 1972-77) posted: 17th July 2007 After a spell back in UK am now living and working in Berlin as Head of Global Strategic Marketing for Women’s Healthcare at Bayer. A superb city I recommend Berlin to everyone and would be delighted to catch up with any OBs who are visiting. Paul Forte (A. 1976-81) posted: 12th July 2007 Recently appointed as Headmaster of Orwell Park School in Suffolk, starting in September 2007.
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Duncan Shaw (D. 1979-84) posted: 5th July 2007 Whilst living and working in London in the ‘80’s/early ‘90’s I kept in touch with the Association, in particular playing for the rugby team (John Aiken was propping even then!). Having moved away, got married, and raised 4 girls (and continuing to do so) I have lost touch a little with the College direct whilst keeping some links via the excellent website. My wife and I visited the College during the Whitsun break and for the first time in nearly 2 decades I spent an hour or so wandering the grounds at my leisure, reflecting on happy times (and some less happy!).
at Qatar (WCMC-Q), at their newest campus. I am charged with the responsibility of leading the Family Medicine Programme by training medical students in their final two years of study. The first graduates will be in 2008. I assume the inaugural position of Director, Primary Care Services. Teaching and research will be the dominant roles with the faculty appointment to Cornell’s Department of Medicine. There is an added privilege of practising family medicine in the Qatari community, and extending general practice and primary care. Cornell is the first North American University to award an MD degree outside the USA. Qatar is thriving economically through its large reserves of oil and gas, and has a very strong focus on education. It is also a wonderful place for a holiday although challenging temperatures in the 40+ C range are not uncommon for about three months of the year. One of these days, we must make Commemoration! Neil Pearlberg (H. 1970-76) posted: 15th Jun 2007 Hit the half century... Still enjoying beautiful Santa Cruz CA, surfing everyday, playing football three days a week. Coaching my son’s (Quinn) High School Surf Team (see: website)... still possessing fond memories of Brighton College!
Neil Hudson (S. 1976 - above) posted: 3rd July 2007 Claire(20), Kirsten(18), Natasha & Rebecca(15) all the result of 22 very happy years with Fiona. Now I know what my parents went through to pay the school fees!!! For up to date details and photos, please check the website and get in touch if you fancy meeting up for a drink to discuss the merits of private education and the state of english rugby! Dr Mohamud Verjee (S. 1965-69) posted: 29th Jun 2007 Life has taken another turn in academia as my wife and I now prepare to depart for my new posting in Doha, Qatar. The task ahead is with Weill Cornell Medical College
Andrew Hardwidge (S. 2001-06) posted: 30th April 2007 Andrew, who graduated last year from Brighton College with an A grade in A Level Dance, has successfully auditioned and been offered three secured places at the Laban Centre, The Place, home to Richard Alston Dance Company, and most recently Rambert Dance School. These are outstanding achievements, particularly as Andrew auditioned alongside boys from White Lodge and Elmhurst Ballet School.
more news and images: www.oldbrightonians.com/ pelnews_2007.htm
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Commemoration Day 2007 Bringing back Commemoration Day to the OB calendar does seem a perfect way to celebrate and acknowledge the 125th Anniversary of the Association, and that the day was graced with terrific weather certainly saved the blushes of those of us who had campaigned so vigorously for this summer replacement to September’s OB Day. However, I had arrived at the College expecting to see none of the scheduled cricket or netball, and wondering where the bar-b-cue lunch would be served once the seemingly inevitable rain arrived. As it turned out, my frankly ungracious presence in the chapel for Communion (El Presidente had caught me off-guard, and it was some time after our most recent telephone conversation that I fully realised that I’d committed yet again to turn out for chapel on an otherwise perfectly pleasant Sunday morning) had been rewarded with a beautiful sunny day.
I must come clean and admit to enjoying the service far more than my flippant tone would suggest; I do accept that everyone should probably attend a service at least once a year (much more can become a habit), and the College chapel is as beautiful a venue as any you’re likely to find for such a venture. Inevitably most of us gravitate to our old pews, and it was in the Ryle corner of the North wing that Gary Browne (L. 1979-83), John Aiken (A. 1976-81 - can’t hold a tune in a bucket) and I sat in reasonably quiet contemplation, considering which of our many sins were in most need of absolution. Upon our release back into the sunshine, Father Robert greeted the sizable congregation that included Bill Blackshaw (Head-
master 1971-87) and his wife, wife Elizabeth, Elizabeth Tony Whitestone (staff, 1971-2006), Peter Rumney (H. 1937-39), Chris Apps (H/A. 1942-46), Tim Loadsman (L. 1951-57), Deputy Headmaster Simon Smith and Current Headmaster Richard Cairns. Throughout the service I had had the distinct impression that our beloved leader, David Gold (S. 1986-91 - terrific singing voice), was close to striking me about the head with something weighty and holy, so I thought it best to scurry off to the Café de d Paris for tea and biscuits. There I met up with w Fiona Aiken (nee Heald, F. 1979-81) and a Joyce Heater (College Archivist) - both busily pinning archive display items to the b walls, and arranging Joyce’s new tome “Imw ages a of England - Brighton College” ready to be snapped up at £12.99 a piece. It I was terrific to see so many former masters join us; in addition to those alm ready mentioned, Michael Brown (former r Head of Classics, visiting from Australia), H Stephen Hicks (on his first visit since he S left), le Richard and Isobel Wilmott (English le Dept & Fenwick House), Paul Hunt (also on his first visit since he left) and Martin Jones (staff: 1977-98) and his wife, Jenny. All mingled easily with the sizable turnout of over 400 attendees that spanned the generations. Suitable refreshed and sustained, I again made a fairly hasty exit to the Home Ground, camera-in-hand to snap away before the still expected rain took hold. The chapel service had clearly gone on longer than its advertised billing because it was lunchtime already! The College had laid on another terrific bar-b-cue spread on the south-east corner of the cricket field, and I was delighted to join John Prideaux (Deputy Housemaster of Ryle during my own internment in the early 80’s) in the lunch
q queue. John was on fine form as ever, and it w great to catch up on news (I was as surwas p prised and saddened to learn of the demise o John’s fabulous old coach as I was when of t told, 2 years ago, that Simon Smith’s canine p Tom, was no longer with us… why pal, d we expect things to change so little in do t decades since we leave school?). John’s the direct line to The Almighty has stood us all d in good stead in the past as far as keeping the t rain away, and today His timing was perfect; no sooner had he and I scoffed our p hot-dogs and chicken legs than the heavens opened for a sharp, and mercifully brief, shower. Accordingly, OBs, parents, pupils and staff made an undignified and damp break for the warm confines of the Café de Paris, by which time the worst of the rain had passed, and the sun was already breaking through again. It was very nearly time for the famed Graduation Ceremony, and so, having downed the coffee that made me need the loo for the next hour and a half, I followed David Gold and Simon Smith back into the now packed chapel (!).
I was very keen to find a good vantage point from which to take some pictures for this website, and Simon very kindly ushered me to his usual pew, where I sat looking slightly embarrassed amongst gowned College masters who must have wondered who I was and what I thought I was doing on the Deputy Headmaster’s throne. Nevertheless, it was a fine spot from which to snap away as, one-by-one, each sixth form leaver came forward to receive their continued on page 7 Pelican Magazine, September 2007 page 5
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Vice-Presidents’ Luncheon On Friday 22 June 25 or so Vice Presidents of the Association and their guests met for lunch at the Army and Navy Club, London. As on the three previous occasions, this was through the good offices of Peter Miller (C. 1945-49). David Gold, the President, presided, and Richard Cairns, the current Headmaster, was the guest of Honour. After an excellent lunch, Richard was kind enough to update the company on the many successes and the exciting developments and plans of the College, such as his hope to extend the writ of the College into Russia and China and the now established scheme to welcome Sixth Formers from Kingsford Community School in London from September under the sponsorship of HSBC. Before leaving he was kind enough to field questions, and his responses further confirmed the excellent heart the College is in. Thanks are, of course, due to Peter Miller and all who responded to the President’s invitation. I very much hope that this
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splendid occasion will be repeated in future years. by Tony Whitestone (staff, 1971-2006) full report and images: www.oldbrightonians.com/ vp_lunch_2007_01.htm OB Attendees: Mr Richard Cairns (Headmaster) Mr David Gold (S. 1986-91) Mr Peter Miller (C. 1945-49) - VP, OBA Mr & Mrs John & Fiona Aiken (A. 197681/F. 1979-81)
Mr M Peter Bowles (A. 1945-50) - VP, OBA M Alex Bremer (R. 1979-84) - OBA ComMr m mittee Mr M Richard Brightwell (A. 1970-75) - OBA President (2000-02) P Rt R Hon Sir John Chilcot, GCB (H/S. 195257) 5 Mr M Stephen Cockburn (S. 1953-58) - VP, OBA & College Council O Mr M Derek Jones (C. 1945-51) - guest Mr M Tim Loadsman (L. 1951-57) - Secretary of o OBA & VP, OBA Canon Douglas McKittrick, Archdeacon of Chichester Mr Malcolm Paris (A. 1954-58) - guest Mr John Polsue (B. 1965-69) - guest Mr Leonard Rea (H/C. 1945-51) - grandfather of Nicholas & Stuart Woodbridge (S. 1995-00 & S. 1998-03), VP, OBA & College Council Mr Thomas Salmons (L. 1957-61) - guest Mr Gordon Smith (B. 1946-52) - Staff (1959-67), Headmaster of Brighton College Junior School (1970-80), OBA President (1987-88) Mr Tony Whitestone - (Staff 1971-2006)
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continued from page 5
Commemoration Day report continued...
c rt ce rtifi ifica c te ca te of of graduation (and a new incertificate nova no vvaati tion on n: a pictorial p ctorial yearbook) from Simon pi novation: Smit Sm ih R ichard Cairns, ic ich Cairns guest of honour Smith, Richard Tony Whitestone and Assistant Head, Mark Beard - each one to the soundtrack of their respective Housemasters and Housemistresses’ personal and brief assessment, and the applause of all present. This is always tremendous fun, and I often wish we’d had a similar ceremony in my day; to end one’s schooldays in this way must leave a very special memory. The day was almost over now; all that was left was to file out into the Front Quad for the leavers photographs on the lawns. The sun was well and truly shining now, and I can’t imagine there are many campuses that shine as brightly on a summer’s day, and the leavers took the opportunity to relax and bask in the warm sunshine on the manicured expanses of grass - and we very much hope it won’t be for the last time - before joining the OBA members for drinks in the Café de Paris. To that end, I reiterate our President’s invitation to our newest members to return to us whenever they fancy, and to stay in touch with us and their many friends - either through the website, or the growing and busy FaceBook community. by Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83) full report and images: www.oldbrightonians.com/ commemoration_day_2007_01.htm
continued from page 21... sessions for farmers in the community of El Baul a 90-minute motorbike ride and 30minute hike from San Agustín (there is no access for vehicles to the village – all produce is carried out on foot or by donkey). I was blown away by the positive response and complete concentration these farmers (most of whom are completely illiterate) gave to the session. They are hungry for information and they are seizing every opportunity to improve the health, welfare and education of their families. They speak about ADIPSA with reverence and gratitude for providing them with the tools and knowledge to do that. I have been working on a ‘Characterisation of the Region’ document for ADIPSA, which will hopefully be useful in seeking financial support for more projects in the
future. The Education Project, in which adults were able to gain a primary school education via the radio, tragically ground to a halt this year because the funding stream dried up. I will be looking for other sources of funding for Education, while at the same time investigating the possibility of expanding their organic fair-trade coffee project. There is organic brown sugar production in the region, so I will be beginning the process of looking for a market and buyers for organic fair-trade cane sugar. I would be over the moon if I managed to achieve in just one year a smidgen of what ADIPSA have done to improve the lives of the people in this remarkable country.
Pelican Magazine, September 2007 page 7
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OBA U30s Drinks, 20th March 2007 It’s difficult to know where to begin with my report on this “reunion”. I’m delighted to say that those who actually showed up at The Brunswick on 12th April proved great company. The problem was that there were just 6 of us (and one of us - me - isn’t even under 30)! Julian “Jools” Barr (H. 1997-02), Jim Ryan (S/D. 1998-03), Ami Savani (W. 2000-05) and Hannah Abdullah (W. 2001-06) joined Jack Bremer (BCJS 1989-94) and myself at the Brunswick - now under the ownership of Jim’s father. The 6 of us had a very enjoyable evening, and I was interested as ever to hear what these folk have been up to since they left the College, and what life holds for them next. Jim is off to University to study Special Effects for Film - not the CGI type, apparently, but the good old-fashioned special effects of yore. I’ve asked him to keep in touch with the Association with regards his endeavours; I think this is a genuinely fascinating industry, and having worked in a very limited capacity in the Film Industry in the past, I’m personally always keen to
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hear that folk are studying the traditional methods. Jools arrived straight from work at Abbey National (where the dress code is now very informal, apparently!). Jools went on to Kingston University from the College, and seems to spend much of his time planning his next foreign trip. In his Gap Year he’d been to Australia, and he’ll be returning soon to the Southern Hemisphere to play cricket for Victoria University in New Zealand. Ami and Hannah were our other attendees, and it was great to meet up with these two. I’d met Hannah very briefly at last year’s Graduation Reception prior to the Leavers’ Ball, and she is now studying Shiatsu massage locally. Ami is at UCL in London, and has a new hat... So... the $64,000 question... where was everybody else? We had publicised this event well in advance, both in the magazine and on the OBA website, and then on the fantastic facebook.com resource (where there is a burgeoning group of OBs in the Old Brightonian Group). The feedback we re-
ceived indicated that this reunion would be very well attended indeed... so what went wrong? We ask the membership to understand and appreciate that the Association is keen to learn from these experiences, and to that end we ask that we might begin a dialogue with our younger members. It has been suggested that perhaps the timing of this event was wrong (perhaps we should have done this in the Easter break), or perhaps the location was inappropriate (should we have held this nearer the centre of Brighton... or perhaps in London?). To further this debate, we take this opportunity to invite these members to engage with the Association in this matter... report by Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83)
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More news in brief... ‘Street Doctor’ series two, featuring Dr. Ayan Panja (H.1986-91 - below) started on Monday September 3rd 2007 at 7.30pm on BBC1. See www.bbc.co.uk/ streetdoctor for more details.
Edward Twohig (Director of Art) and David Nash RA (B. 1959-63) are pictured with (below, left to right) Michael Curameng-Henderson (D. 1986-91, and Head of Photography and Art Technician at the College), Tessa Acheson (Assistant Director of Art at the College) and Rachael Gilbert (Artist in Residence at the College)
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Vivian Fuchs FRS (B. 1922-26 - left). Since 1958, the Fuchs Foundation has organised scientific expeditions for young science and geography school teachers to undertake experiments and inspire and inform their teaching. The Foundation was recently reorganised and in alternate years the expeditions now go to the Arctic and Antarctic. On completion of their expedition, each teacher becomes a Fuchs Scholar. See www.fuchsfoundation.org.
at the Regency Assembly Room Exhibition in Lewes Town Hall, May 2007 Fuchs Foundation March 2008 will see the 50th anniversary of the first successful overland crossing of Antarcitca via the South Pole - by a Commonwealth expedition led by OB Sir
The Old Brightonians have donated two benches to the College to commemorate the Association’s 125th anniversary. It is thought likely that one will be situated in the newly landscaped Woolton Quad and the other on the Home Ground, possibly near the new Pavilion which has been made possible thanks to donations from many OBs. We hope OBs as well as parents and pupils will enjoy using them for many years to come.
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Marriages & Births
More news in brief...
Gary Browne (L. 1979-83) married Andrea at Brighton College (below) on 14th July 2007. OBs present included Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83), Guy Bradshaw (R. 1979-83) and Adam Belson (R. 1979-83).
Nigel Bakhai (A. 1984-89 - right) and the Liberal Democrats slashed the Labour majority in Ealing Southall to just 5,070 votes in the by-election on July 19th 2007. John Bass (S. 1952-59) posted: 2nd September 2007 Met up with Barry Meckiffe (formerly Crew - also S. 1953-59. We both visited the College yesterday Sept 1st.We had not seen each other since we both left in 1959. We were both somewhat confused as all the Houses are in different places and sadly the Chapel was locked! Does anyone know if the full sized billiard table that used to be in Durnford House has been moved to the new house?
Paul (L. 1978-81 - below) and Anastasia Witts are delighted to announce the birth of a son Oliver Joseph, born in Eastbourne District Hospital at 1.15am on Monday 9/7/07. A strapping lad (like his Dad) at 8lb 6oz. All the Witts’s (including daughter Sophie age 9) are doing fine.
Patrick Lyford (C. 1949-56) posted: 11th July 2007 Not a great deal (of news) really! Retired from Guinness in 1994 after 36 years in UK, New Zealand, Malaysia and Nigeria. Still living in Buckinghamshire and enjoying the company of my wife, Christine, my son Mark (C. 1982-85) and daughter Tessa and their respective spouses and our three gorgeous grandchildren who all give us a great deal of pleasure! Rehanna Saheid (W. 1997-01 F. 2001-02) posted: 10th July 2007 Well I am now living in the States. My dad has a daycare here which i am helping to run. I am also engaged and due to get married on the 20th October so I’m busy trying to plan for that. All in all things are going well.
On 27th April George Brenan (BCJS 197681) and his wife, Tammy, met for the first time their little boy, Louis (below)...
Robin Hill (H. 1987-90) posted: 10th July 2007 Baby daughter, Kitty Blue, born October 16th 2006 in water, at home in Eastbourne. Robin and wife Kerry have been tired but happy ever since. Chris Harris (S. 1987-94) posted: 6th Jun 2007 I am living in LA now and am married to Jaida. We have a son called Pacey Graham (right) who was born 11/06/06. He was two months early and has Downs Syndrome. We have a boxer called Simon and life is very good. I run the Commercial team responsible for Fresh Produce and Horticulture for fresh & easy, Tesco’s venture into the US. I am half way through my MBA at Pepperdine.
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Andrew Hardwidge (S. 2001-06) posted: 30th April 2007 Andrew, who graduated last year from Brighton College with an A grade in A Level Dance, has successfully auditioned and been offered three secured places at the Laban Centre, The Place, home to Richard Alston Dance Company, and most recently Rambert Dance School. These are outstanding achievements, particularly as Andrew auditioned alongside boys from White Lodge and Elmhurst Ballet School. Other College dancers who are currently studying for degrees at vocational dance schools and at university include Emily Thomas (C. 2001-06) at London Studio Centre, Fenella Ryan (C. 2001-06) at Middlesex University, Roxanna Granville (W. 2001-05) at Coventry University and Catriona Lovie (W. 2003-05) who is in her second year at the Laban Centre. Matt Walters (D. 1977-80) posted: 18th April 2007 Still as busy as ever with the job that not all ex public schoolboys can boast about: professional human statue!! Working as a statue for Science in Sport, an electrolyte drinks replacement product, used in endurance sports. Something that is linked with me as i am still running stupid distances. Planned for 7 off road marathons, 2 ultra marathons and a few adventure races to boot! Pretty fit, enjoying life and looking forward to catching up with a load of my year... whoever or wherever you are... please get in touch!
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Blessing of the College CCF Colours Father Robert Easton blesses the new CCF Colours (below) and drum kit at the College, 23rd march 2007
Solid Silver Cufflinks We are delighted to present these beautiful cufflinks (pictured, right) in hallmarked solid silver at £50.00 per pair. Buy these cufflinks online now at: www.oldbrightonians.com/ oba_shop_01.htm
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London Drinks, 20th March 2007 A select gathering of ten Old Brightonians this evening - not the heaving throng we’ve been used to of late, but perhaps the success of the January Drinks (in terms of sheer numbers, at least) had prompted us in our enthusiasm to organise tonight’s gathering a little to soon. Nevertheless, quality more than made up for quantity, and this particular slice of alumni represented some of the most interesting OBs that I have personally had the pleasure to meet. Guy Bradshaw (R. 1979-84) and I arrived fashionably late at Rocket (Old Broad Street) to meet Duncan Watts (R. 1979-84) ensconced at the ground floor bar with London Drinks stalwart John Polsue (B. 1965-69), Barnie James (H. 1993-98) and Daniel Whitestone (L. 1997-98). We were all ushered upstairs to the first floor bar where Duncan had set aside an area for us to set up base camp. Here we met two OBs that had been lurking there in the dark waiting for our arrival. David Newman (S. 1955-59) and John Osborne (C. 1931-34) were in town for a City Livery Club event, and we were all delighted to have the opportunity to meet them both. David particularly enjoyed meeting Duncan and sharing tales of der-
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ring do in the restaurant business. John is 89 years young (and retains more faculties than Guy and I could muster between us) and was proudly sporting his Chichester Centennial tie. Both regaled us with tales of The College; John told us about his Housemaster, A. H. Belcher, and the Assistant Housemaster. T. A. “Tubby” Hill. David’s Housemaster was Peter Gough, assisted by Norman Frith. David has sent us some wonderful sketches by Tubby Hill (here), that had been given as a prize to the Head Boy. We were joined by John Nehls (H. 1972-77) who’d come up from Gatwick. It’s always good to see John, he seems never to be without a smile - and tonight was no exception. After many of the revellers had left for the evening, Duncan, Guy and I were having a last drink before heading off when we were greeted by the biggest surprise of the evening: out of nowhere, unannounced, and “missing in action” for nearly 25 years, Justin Wash (B/C. 1979-84) suddenly appeared and ordered two bottles of Duncan’s finest. We accordingly put down our bags and coats, selected appropriate vessels, and proceeded to aid Justin in his endeavours. It was terrific to see Justin again; it’s been so long, and he and I were great friends at
school (very many otherwise tedious afternoons on campus were rendered hysterical and memorable by his mischievous and irrepressible personality - God knows how he ever became Head Boy). We all noticed that in many respects he appears not to have changed at all. Again, the Association thanks Duncan for his consummate hospitality. The endless flow of exquisite food, and his determination that no one should find themselves without a glass of something detrimental in their hands, constitutes service above and beyond any expectations we might have of our hosts at these events, and we remain ever grateful to him and his wonderful staff. Duncan remains keen to welcome us again later in the year, and we all hope that more Old Girls will join us this time. We would have had a few along tonight except for the fact that Amanda Bucknill (nee Cotton, F. 1982-84) was at a Dolly Parton concert, and Carrie England (F. 1982-84) was straightening her hair... report by Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83) full story and images: www.oldbrightonians.com/london_ drinks_200307_01.htm
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Walsh’s mug swims home... We’re always interested to hear about College memorabilia - especially interesting little objects such as the one pictured on the right. The picture of this pewter mug was sent to us from the States by a lady who had found it whilst going through her late father’s possessions. The inscriptions dates from 1874, and states, “Brighton College, 1874, Open Diving, Won By L G L Walsh”. The mug was originally won by Lionel George Laurence Walsh, born in 1859 and a College pupil from 1873 to 1876. What we’re not entirely sure about is how this item made it’s way across the pond; the lady
who sent in this picture is in no way related to Lionel, and believes that the mug came to her father via a third party sometime in the 1960’s. So... firstly, the Association appeals to it’s membership to have a think about how this mug came to arrive in the US... and also to dig out any similar items that you feel might be of interest to the rest of us. Photos and items can be donated by post to the OBA office, whereupon we shall don our best “Antiques Roadshow” thinking caps in establishing provenance and significance. Failing that wild supposition and guesswork usually works wonders...
OBA on FaceBook... The Association has recently started to engage our members through the fantastic FaceBook Community. We are mightily impressed by the capabilities of this online forum, and urge or entire membership to take a look; FaceBook serves as a professional and social network that is supremely easy to use and is a fabulous means by which to communicate with fellow OBs (as well with any usergroup with similar interests to you). Please bear in mind that the views and opinions contained within submissions from OB’s posted on this forum do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the OBA, Brighton College, or 3B Web Design, and that any of these organisations reserve the right to edit or exclude submissions. Moreover, we urge all FaceBook users to properly use the privacy settings within your FaceBook account. Right: Original design of the front gate on Eastern Road. Sent to us by Rev Richard Thornburgh (son of Mike “Spike” Thornburgh, geography master, BCJS). More images and photos are on display at: www.oldbrightonians.com/gallery/
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London Drinks, 18th September 2007 What a terrific night - this is how the London Drinks should work! I’d be lying if I said we wouldn’t rather have a few more of you along to these things, but the turnout tonight was a decent enough size, I suppose (15 or so), and the quality of the company more than made up for it’s quantity. Early arrivals included Nicholas Allan (H. 1970-75), Simon Lanyon (C. 1951-56), Rob Older (R. 1996-01) and his friend Adam White, and Tim Loadsman (L. 1951-57), along with Dylan James (H. 1985-91) and Barney James (H. 1993-98) - all firmly ensconced in Rocket’s “Black Bar” by the time I arrived at 7.30pm. We were joined in short order by James Ikonen (S. 1998-02), Morgan Williams (D. 1998-03), and David Bartram (D. 1999-01). Together this crowd made for tremendous company, albeit enhanced considerably by the arrival of Emily Smith (F. 1993-98) and Victoria Du Caurroy Tribe (F. 1993-98). Emily is a speech therapist, and Vicky is a lawyer working for Cadwalader in Global Finance. On far too many occasions (but
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not always) are these London Drinks an all-male affair, and we simply cannot figure out why this should be. Bravo to Emily and Vicky for coming along - I really hope they enjoyed themselves, and we all look forward to seeing them again in the future. Yet again, Duncan Watts (R. 1979-84)’s hospitality exceeded all reasonable expectations, and his wonderful staff kept us fed (with exquisite hors d’oeuvres) and watered (with some of the bars finest rums and cocktails) all night. Any intention any of us may have had to network constructively rather evaporated as a steady stream of increasingly exotic spirits crossed the bar in our direction. Once more I thank Duncan and his staff for another great night out in the City. The OBA wholeheartedly recommends his restaurants and bars to you all; 3 exceptionally appointed venues serving wonderful meals and drinks - if you haven’t tried one of his restaurants, go and do so now! We’re going to give the poor boy and his wallet a break for a short while (we’ll look to impose upon him again next year – per-
haps in the Summer at his wonderful riverside restaurant in Putney). To this end we’re actively looking for a new venue for our New Years Drinks - perhaps our members would like to propose somewhere..?
report by Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83) full story and images: www.oldbrightonians.com/ london_drinks_180907_01.htm
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The Brighton College Christmas Pudding! picture sent in by Niall Good (L. 1958-65) - 3rd in from the left
Membership of the Association More than 3,000 men and women across the World belong to the Association of Old Brightonians, all with one thing in common - we have all attended Brighton College. Among our members you will find an amazingly diverse range of people. They include people in television, radio and theatre musicians, sportsmen and sportswomen, authors, explorers, artists and even a Druid. Of course, there are doctors, lawyers, bankers, business people and teachers, but also countless students and people taking gap years. Some of our members are old, many live abroad, and the majority are men because the College did not go fully co-educational until the 1980s, but in the OBA all members are treated with the same respect and all are equal. This is not the Old Boys Association, whatever you may have heard!
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The Aims of the Association: To enable former pupils to keep in touch with one another the College and their former teachers. To provide regular social occasions, both formal and informal, and to help members who wish to organise their own events when possible. To support a wide range of clubs and societies, sports teams and activities which can be enjoyed by Old Brightonians. To help Old Brightonians to share their experiences and opportunities with one another. To strengthen the links between Brighton College and former pupils.
If you’re not currently a member of the Association, it’s never too late to join! Simply download and complete the form from our website at www.oldbrightonians.com/membership_01.htm and return it to the OBA office.
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Obituaries David Fellingham (S. 1956-60) June 2007 It is with enormous sadness, and indeed shock, that we learn of the tragic death of David Fellingham (S. 1956-60), after a very short and unexpected illness. David was an extremely well known and much loved personality in and around Brighton, who for many years ran the well established family heating engineering firm, W H Fellingham and Sons. This was followed in latter years by his company, MoneyGoRound, and his passing will touch scores of friends and colleagues around the city. Whilst at College he was a participating and successful sportsman of considerable talent (1st XV rugby, squash, swimming, sailing), and he was an equally successful and par-
ticipating member of social gatherings at ti th “Pav”. He was an exceptionally practical the man, m with a huge variety of interests, and a proud father and grandfather. p We W extend deep and sincere condolences to his h wife, Pippin, and son and daughter Will and a Libby. by b Nick Bremer (Director of Art, Brighton College, 1969-2000) C
News: There was a terrific turnout for David’s memorial service which took place at St Mary de Haura in Shoreham on 18th July 2007, followed by a reception at the Sussex Yacht Club. Tommy Lloyd (D. 1954-59) gave a moving and sincere eulogy, followed by readings from his son, Will, and Nick Bremer (Director of Art, Brighton College, 1969-2000). The joyous reception at the Yacht Club was the perfect send-off for David; teeming with family and friends on a beautiful sunny day at high tide, the marina providing a stunning backdrop.
Colonel Dennis Laferty Barratt (Steyning House, 1927-31) Born: 27 April 1914 Died: 8 May 2007, aged 93 His parents were Richard and Ada Barratt. Richard Barratt was one of the founders of W. Barratt & Co, footwear manufacturers of Barrack Road, Northampton. Dennis Barratt was educated at Eaglehurst College, Northampton and later at Brighton College, where he enjoyed the sporting activities, especially cross country in which he excelled. After leaving Brighton College he went into the family firm. In 1940 he married Sheila Strickland, the daughter of Sidney Strickland who was the managing director of another shoe manufacturer in Northampton, Stricklands of Clare Street. They in turn had one very famous client, Coco the clown, who wore size 42 boots as part of his costume. In 1941 Mr & Mrs Barratt had their only child, a son, Richard. Just after the outbreak of WW2 Dennis Barratt joined the Northampton auxiliary police force as he was one of the few with a car. Later he volunteered into the Army and was posted to Weedon, for training, and later to Burma where he witnessed the fall and recapture of Rangoon. Later he dispatched to East Africa where he was
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in charge of Italian prisoners of war. He was demobbed as a Colonel in 1946 and returned to live at St David’s in Kingsthorpe, the family home, and resumed his work at W. Barratt & Co. In the mid 1950s he bought The Grange at Holcot where he kept a number of horses and hunted regularly with the Pytchley Hunt. His other main interests at the time were with the Northampton Car Club and he was seen frequently at Silverstone on the Club Circuit racing one of his stable of cars, which included a Bugatti 35B, a Fraser Nash, a Swallow Doretti or a Jensen 541. He was also greatly involved in the development of the Roadmenders Boys Club where he was very active in ensuring that young people found support and
Stephen Nedeham Browne (A. 195660) writes: “I was deeply saddened on reading your report of David’s death. I first met David at BCJS in the early ‘50’s and had been friends ever since. I saw him in Brighton last November when we had lunch together with a few other OB’s: Charles Proe (D. 1957-60), Tommy Lloyd (D. 1954-59) and Bob Cole (L. 1956-58). When I came to Mexico in 1973 I lost touch with David somewhat, but over the last few years we got together on my yearly trips to Brighton. The outstanding memory of David at BCJS was that he was an early developer and at aged 10, apart from being tall was also strong beyond his years - even Ricky Farr (Tommy Farr - the boxer’s elder son) was wary of David. The rest has been said by Nick Bremer, that he was a charming, friendly and kind gentleman. We are all poorer for his loss.” suitable s guidance. His other main sporting interest was rugby, not only as a spectator i but b also as a player for Barratts in the Paget Cup C and even turned out for Northampton Saints from time to time just after WW2. S He H made a notable contribution to the Worshipful Company of Pattenmakers, W a City Livery and charity, where he introduced many of his compatriots in the shoe d trade and encouraged them to become t members, strengthening the tie between the m Livery and its trade. He was so successful in L this t venture that he was made an Honorary a Member of the Court, an accolade very seldom given. s By the 1970s he and his wife, Sheila, moved to The Chantry in Great Billing, but had frequent holidays in Spain. In the early 1980s they decided to move permantly to Javea, Alicante, where they stayed happily for over 20 years. Even to the end he was a man of action, a raconteur and a flamboyant character with great charm and humour. He is survived by his younger brother, David and his family and also by his son, Richard, his wife Jacky and granddaughter, Pia. In typical style and following his wish to be slightly different, Dennis Barratt left his body to the medical department of Alicante University and there was, therefore, no funeral.
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Her arrival at school in the morning on her Vespa was like the arrival of a whirlwind; her vitality and enthusiasm for life were an example to us all, and noone could feel lethargic with her around. Truly, Audrey Chesterton was one of those who shaped not only hundreds of individuals but also the community to which she and they belonged. by Gordon Smith (Headmaster BCJS 1970-80, B. 1946-52) Audrey’s funeral was on Monday 23rd July 2007 at Brighton Crematorium, attended by David Gold on behalf of the College and the OBA.
Audrey Chesterton (above) July 2007 This is not an obituary but a memory of a colleague with whom I worked for ten years. Audrey joined the Junior School just after I had left to move on to the College, and it was her proud boast that she had completed over 100 terms by the time she finished. I became headmaster just at the time when preparatory school science was assuming the place of importance that it now holds, and her involvement with the teaching of biology was exemplary and infectious. Her preparation was meticulous and her marking faultless, and nothing was allowed to stand in the way of the weekly double biology for the top two years; lower forms had a double period of science with her which served as a good introduction to the fullscale study that boys were to follow later. Her organizing ability and her determination to produce the best that was humanly possible also marked out her yearly administration of the charities fair; I cannot remember exactly what we called it, but basically the whole school was taken over for an afternoon by sideshows and sales in support of the various charities that the school supported. Year after year the total raised was higher than before and the involvement of staff, parents, and boys more and more intensive. Her report-writing and her pastoral oversight of Form IIIb revealed her care for and knowledge of individual boys, and her teaching of mathematics to those who found the subject daunting eased the fears of many!
Ian Wilson (A. 1958-63) writes: “Just to add to Gordon Smith’s piece about Audrey Chesterton I remember her as very sensitive and thoughtful to me as a traumatised 8 year old following a parental break up which were rare in those days and when I suspect teachers had no or little experience in dealing with such events!”
Christopher C Bennett (B. 1957-61 - above) July 2007 Christopher Bennett has died after his horse slipped in a muddy field during a hunt. 62-year-old extreme sports enthusiast Christopher broke his neck when he was catapulted from his mount at Paton’s Copse near Fairford last year whilst on a drag hunt with the Vale of White Horse group, and he has since asked for his life support machine to be turned off.
Fred Hankins (above) (College Staff, 1964-82) Fred Hankins who died on the 11th May, was a member of the college staff from 1964-82. He as appointed by Henry Christie to set up an Economics Department which flourished under his guidance. He will be remembered with great respect and affection as housemaster of Hampden where he sought successfully to balance the need for discipline with an awareness of the rapidly changing society of the time. In 1975 he became the colleges first Director of Activities and in 1977 Second Master. In these posts he exerted considerable influence on the management of the school and helped to introduce changes which were to benefit pupils and colleagues. He left the college to become Secretary of the Economics Association. The funeral was on Tuesday the 5th June. In the summer of 1967 Rufus Happy Jukuri Harris (S. 1960-64), who has died of cancer aged 61, and the artist Caroline Coon formed Release, an underground organisation that provided legal advice and welfare services to young people arrested for drugs offences. Jonathan Aitken, who did much to smooth the way for Release, commented at the time that if Release did not exist it would have to be invented. High-profile clients included John Lennon and George Harrison, who donated £5,000 in 1969. Pelican Magazine, September 2007 page 17
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Messages from OBs “Hope all is well - I am currently serving in Iraq (as Sqn Ldr with The King’s Royal Hussars) in Basra. Also here is Zac Stenning (H. 1985-90)! Here until Dec. Been tremendously busy with lots of amazing stories. Will try and put something together for the OBA website when I get a moment. Also here is a girl called Abi Sprankling (F. 1992-97). She is going to co-ord a photo of us all.” Chris MacGregor (D. 1986-91) “After joining the Championship Gaming Series in April as Director of Global Operations and on the back of the success of my 1st TV series, shown on DirecTV’s
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The College as seen from the air in 1956
channel 101 in the USA in August. I’m launching the programme in the UK with the support of BSkyB. The shows will be filmed over the next two weeks, at 3 Mills TV Studio in London, tickets are available free from www.applausestore.com, for airing in the weeks running up to Christmas at prime time on Sky 1. Shortly after this I’ll also be launching the series in Asia on the Star network, so if you’re in one of Star Asia’s broadcast regions then you can check out the action. If any OBs or current college students are interested in TV production and would like a behind the scenes tour of the London set then sign up on Applause Store and then email me at dwatkins@thecgs.com” Daniel Watkins (D. 1992-98)
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Old Brightonian Lodge No. 4104
THE SOAMES SOCIETY
Autumn Report On Friday 14th September 2007 Peter Best (A. 1951-54) became the first ever member of the lodge to become Master for the third time. Peter was Master first in 1968 and again in 1986. Fifty two members of the Lodge and their guests sat down to an excellent dinner in the College afterwards and a very good evening was enjoyed by all present. During the Summer a lunch party was held at Firle Place during which a grand raffle was held. Over £500 was raised which was equally divided between the Old Brightonian Lodge Scholarship Fund, which provides a bursary at the School every year and Sussex4Sussex a charity run by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Sussex which has, during the last 3 years, given over £1,000,000 to non-Masonic organisations in the County. The Largest donations have been to the Sussex Air Ambulance and the Sussex Eye
Hospital, which was originally build with Masonic funds in the 1930’s. Hundreds of smaller charities and Groups have also been funded too and, as a separate project we were happy to support Simon Ackred on his South American adventure in aid of the Parkinson’s Disease Society. Next year we have a full programme of meetings and events starting with a meeting on 11th January 2008 when we hope to welcome a new member and in March we will be enjoying a Ladies Festival at the College. Further details of this and all Masonic matters from the Secretary Peter Cockburn (S. 1959-64) on pfcockburn@aol.com.
Brighton College is widely acknowledged as one of the UK’s leading coeducational schools. This has been achieved thanks to strong leadership, an outstanding body of staff and an innovative approach to the challenges of the 21st century while respecting our rich heritage. Unlike many independent schools, Brighton College does not have deep pockets nor a substantial investment portfolio to finance new facilities. Almost every new building in the College’s history has been paid for through the generosity of parents, former pupils or private trusts. After salaries and running costs, every penny from school fees is ploughed back into the existing fabric of the College estate. Many parents, former pupils and friends of the College wish to donate but are unable to offer large capital sums. The Soames Society enables people to contribute to capital projects, bursaries and refurbishment projects in a variety of ways, whether monthly, annually or in a lump sum. Members are kept fully informed of developments at the College and can specify where they would prefer their funds to be directed. Each year the Society will host two exclusive events for members – in May 2007 a reception at the House of Lords and later in the year a Black Tie Dinner to be held in Brighton. The membership of the Society is published on the Soames Society board in the Dawson Reception and in Development Office publications. However, we respect the wish of some members to remain anonymous. To become a member of the Soames Society donors pledge a minimum of £85 per month for 5 years, or a single payment of at least £5,000. Membership is valid for the duration of the pledge or if paid as a single sum, for 5 years. Other terms of payment are available on request and can be discussed with the Development Director in confidence Donors who are UK tax payers are invited to sign a Gift Aid form to increase the value of their donation by 28% at no additional cost to themselves – higher rate tax payers also receive additional tax relief when completing their self-assessment form. Overseas donors may be entitled to receive tax relief on their donations and should seek the advice of the Development Office. A donation form and brochure can be downloaded from the College website (www.brightoncollege.org.uk).
Pelican Magazine, September 2007 page 19
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The Lashings XI return to Brighton College 21st June 2007 It’s hard to imagine an event that can appeal to, and draw together, the generations of Old Brightonians, College staff, and current pupils in quite the same way that Clare Connor’s (W. 1989-94) annual cricket-fest does so successfully. This year, the 2nd visit of the Lashings World XI to the College was again the centrepiece of a wonderful day spent on the Home Ground in the company of old and new friends - again blessed by the perfect sunshine that seems to bathe the College so often. The Home Ground, and indeed the entire campus, looks magnificent on occasions such as this; marquees, gazebos and deckchairs adorned the outfield, populated by folk dressed in their “Summer best” mingling with excited College pupils (autograph books and digital cameras in hand). The form here is that the lashings side bat first for two hours, flamboyantly setting a target for Joey Appleton’s (D. 1979-84) College side to aim at, and we were treated to the sight of world class cricketers in full flight; enthusiastically dispatching balls to all corners of the field at varying speeds and altitudes (several balls seemed to land on our marquee having collected ice
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crystals on route) - and giving away their wickets accordingly. A truly magnificent barbecued lunch was then served, as we were all introduced to the Lashings players and management - and it’s once we’d enjoyed plenty of the liquid refreshment on offer that all present were invited to bid in an open auction for a number of sport-related goodies. As happened last year, Guy Bradshaw (R. 1979-84) and Rob Bourne (R. 1980-85) conspired with Graham Appleton (D. 1953- 57) to bid for Joey to be the “Lashings Player For a Day” - and this time they won! Accordingly, Joey will play for Lashings at next year’s match reason enough to attend surely?!? After lunch, the College players had a go at the target - and frankly, got pretty close!
Even to my untrained eye it was apparent E th there are a number of future stars in that the th College side; we all know Holly Colvin is destined for great things, and Alistair Wilson and Andrew Thornley batted solidly W whilst Charlie Foreman top-scored with 75. w Running into our old masters is always R a highlight of these events (even though so many of them hardly seem old at all!). Philip Robinson was on particularly fine P form, as was his great comrade-in-arms, Sifo mon m Smith. We were delighted to see John Pope, David Lowe and Stephen Radojcic... and most especially for Guy, Adam Belson (R. 1979-84) and I, our dear old (not old) Housemaster, Ollie Smythe. We discovered that Ollie is retiring in the not-too-distant future; God help him if he thinks he can skulk off into the sunset without his former wards giving him a proper send-off! As always, many, many thanks go to Clare and Joey for another great day out, and to all the College staff for laying on such a great feast. by Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83) full story and report: www.oldbrightonians.com/ lashings_2007_01.htm
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Tales from Guatemala by Claire Ellis (W. 1992-95) When I think about my walk to work each morning - negotiating the daily hazards of speeding tuk tuks, fierce geese, falling mangos and a decidedly rickety rope bridge - it’s hard to believe that most of the time I do forget that I am in Guatemala. I have only been living in the quiet town of San Agustín, Acasaguastlán for five months, but already it feels like my second home. I’m volunteering for a grass roots development organisation, ADIPSA, in the forgotten north east of the country. ADIPSA works with subsistence or semi-subsistence farmers in this region, providing them with opportunities that aim to improve the quality of life for the farmers and their families. The population of the town of San Agustín itself is only 4,000, but clinging to the sides of the fertile hills and river valleys that rise up to 3,000m above sea level behind the town into the Sierra de las Minas National Reserve, another 30,000 people scratch out their lives. The majority of these families live and work on their own small plots of land, hopefully producing enough of the staple foods (maize and beans) to feed themselves and, if they are lucky, to produce a little extra that can be sold in the local market. ADIPSA runs a diverse range of projects, from offering much needed low interest micro-loans to farmers who don’t even have bank accounts, to encouraging the cultivation of organic crops and the conservation of water. In contrast to many development agencies who parachute into an area wielding gifts of crops, seeds or fertilizers and then fly off to help another set of poor people, ADIPSA is a truly local organisation. Their three trained agronomists are the are from local farming families, growing up within the very same communities they are now trying to help. They spend their days slogging up and down the hillsides on their motorbikes, visiting the 300 or so members of ADIPSA in 22 remote communities, giving on-going agricultural advice and support. All of the projects appear on the surface to be incredibly simple, but each one is designed to yield multiple rewards that are sustainable in the long term. For example, their current ‘soil conservation’ project involves sowing ‘living barriers’ of crops
such as pineapple or lemon tea in rows across the maize and bean fields to prevent the fragile soils for being washed down the steep hillsides in the heavy winter rains. Each farmer has also been given 25 fruit tree saplings – lemons, oranges, avocados, mangos – to plant throughout the maize field. The roots of the trees will help to bind the soil, which is particularly important in the fallow season. The ADIPSA policy is that in exchange for the ‘gifts’ of fruit trees, the farmers must attend a series of training courses on how to grow and cultivate their new crops. One such session involves how to make organic fertilizers and pesticides from simple things in the home. The farmers love it – growing organically is cheaper than buying chemical fertilizers and they know if is healthier for families (to them the long-term benefits to the environment are just an added bonus). In only 9 months this successful project has already literally borne fruit. The produce has increased the range of foods in a traditionally very restricted diet that often consists of little more than black beans and maize tortillas. In a country where chronic child malnutrition is ranked third highest in the world, this is vital. The extra crops also offer ‘food security’ – something to fall back on in an emergency. If the maize crop is poor one year, empty stomachs wont be inevitable. Any surplus fruits can also be sold at the local market – providing a little extra much needed cash for the family and with the added benefit of keeping income within the local economy and the whole community also benefits from not being so dependent on external imports (also increasingly vital after the recent instigation of ‘CAFTA’ the ‘Free-Trade’ agreement with the USA which threatens to flood Guatemala with cheap subsidised maize from the US). The success of ADIPSA in 13 years is evident. Not only have they managed to execute successful projects in education, food security, organic cultivation and women’s development, they have also managed to gain funding from several international Non-Governmental Organisations to expand the scope of their work. Intermón (Spanish Oxfam) is currently funding a project which has allowed them to mobilise, organise and support a group
of local coffee farmers to gain fair-trade status for their high quality organic beans. These farmers are now benefiting from a secure high price for their coffee, and they have the added bonus of receiving the ‘Fair Trade Premium’, money which must be spent collectively on community projects. The coffee farmers (the majority of whom have little more than a primary school education) have decided to put the fund towards providing educational scholarships for their children. Living and working in Guatemala has definitely been an eye opening experience. If nothing else, I have learnt the virtue of patience! This is a country where the concept of time is completely open to personal interpretation and it’s virtually expected to arrive an hour or two late for a meeting. The ADIPSA staff are quite rightly thrilled to have just had their office hooked up to the Internet, and yet I am constantly frustrated by the incredibly slow connection. ADIPSA are well accustomed to the challenges of working within rural communities that are still living with the memory of a 36 year civil war. The people are understandably inherently suspicious of outside help and of organisations that may have a hidden agenda. Gaining trust and respect is a painstakingly slow process. But little by little ADIPSA have been turning things around and gaining small but immensely significant victories. Most importantly, their members are thrilled. One of the best days I have had was when I attended one of the compulsory training continued on page 7 Pelican Magazine, September 2007 page 21
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Sports News in brief Prior gets his Ton! At 11.00 on Thursday 17th May, Matt Prior (R. 1995-00) became ‘Matthew Prior, Brighton College, Sussex and England’ as he made his test debut at Lords. Matt Prior was chosen ahead of Paul Nixon for keeper’s spot for the first Test of the summer at Lord’s against the West Indies. He scored a hundred on his debut, taking just 105 deliveries and hitting 16 boundaries after coming in at number 7, and finishing on 126 not out. He became the first England wicket keeper to score a Test hundred on debut and the 17th English batsman to record the feat overall. The last wicketkeeper to make a half century on debut was Jack Russell, who scored 94 against Sri Lanka at Lords in 1988. Prior was one of four centurions in the innings
along with Alastair Cook, Cook Paul Collingwood and Ian Bell. It was the first time since 1938 that four England players scored hundreds in the same innings of a Test match. Matt played for the College 1st XI for five seasons (1996-00) and helped to raise Brighton College’s profile on the cricket circuit to one of the strongest teams in the
F P R Rumney (H. 1937-39) was elected an Hon. Life member of the Sussex Rugby Football Union at the June AGM. A member of the SRFU Committee for 46 years, his appointments include Hon. Secretary, SRFU Fixture Bureau, then Fixture Secretary, SRFU Selector, Martlets RFC, Press & Publicity, Hon. Secretary, SRFU Youth and Press Officer, SRFU. Recently retired after 16 years as Hon. Secretary SRFU Coaching. He and his wife, Mary, have been to a Buckingham Palace July tea party as an acknowledgement of the contribution made to the community by rugby football. He met the late Basil Pett (H. 1933-37)
in 1944 while in the Pacific Fleet. Basil persuaded him to join Brighton Rugby Club and he was soon elected Hon. Schools Secretary mainly for recruiting at Brighton College, eventually taking over as OB Rugby Secretary for the Christmas term fixtures. In 1959, with Howard Sear (B. 1951-54) and several other OBs in the Brighton Club, it was resolved to re-form OBRFC (pre-war Clubhouse at Chessington closed down) as a Sussex club with Peter Rumney as Hon. Secretary and Fixture Secretary and the Club soon had two XVs established and playing a full fixture list. Peter Rumney wishes to thank all the past Club Committee members and players for their support. Alex King (A. 1988-93) Old Boy and London Wasps Fly Half Alex King became a European Cup Cup winner as Wasps beat Leicester Tigers in the Heineken Cup Final at Twickenham on Sunday. He described victory over Leicester in the Heineken Cup final as “the greatest ever performance by a Wasps team”. King slotted 15 points from the boot in a 25-9 win in front of a record 81,076 crowd to deny Leicester the Treble.
Left: Phil Vickery lifts the 2007 Heineken Cup with Old Brightonian Alex King (A. 1988-93)
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country. He was a key member of co th 1999 XI that won 20 matches, the the th best ever by any school team in a season. Always an individual, he played exciting cricket; perhaps the pl most m memorable was his 205 not out ou in India. Captaincy brought the best be out of him, something perhaps the th Sussex and England selectors should bear in mind. sh With W his old mentor from Sussex, Peter Pe Moores, in charge he has the best be possible start in what should be a new era for England’s test side. sid It is a great moment for Matt and for Brighton College and we wish him every success. www.oldbrightonians.com/ cricket_2007_01.htm
Home Ground Pavilion Many OBs generously donated funds towards the new Home Ground pavilion which will be situated on the raised banks opposite the Sports Hall. After lengthy technical discussions with the local council because of the proximity to the road above, the scheme has now been given the goahead. Work will commence in October and it is hoped that the pavilion will be completed by Christmas, subject to the weather. When complete, the building will become home to the College’s extensive collection of sporting memorabilia including hundreds of team photographs. More details in the next Pelican.
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Ollie Phillips (H. 1996-2001 - above) lifts Middlesex 7s title. Despite the rain, the crowd were treated to a thrilling final at Twickenham on Saturday which saw Newcastle Falcons lift the Middlesex 7s trophy. Losing finalists in 2001 and 2003, Newcastle, led by Old Brightonian and England 7s stalwart Ollie Phillips, beat Worcester in a close encounter. Ryan Manyika makes debut for Harlequins. Last season’s 1st XV captain has already made is senior debut for Harlequins. In the World Cup warm up match against Samoa he came on in the 60th minute. Straight away he made an impact on the game performing a clever inside pass with Chris Robshaw who made inroads into the Samoan twenty-two and Quins were awarded a penalty, which was converted meaning the hosts won by the narrowest of margins. The following day he ran out again for Quins at the Middlesex Sevens, although not doing as well as other Old Boy Ollie Phillips.
continued from page 24... fect balance of power and speed throughout all our matches, with long flowing hair he dissected Bristol time and time again. However, the real hero’s of this game were the forwards. Like wrecking balls our tight five pounded the crimson and blue wall before them. Flankers darted here there and everywhere, giving deft offloads and twenty-yard spin passes alike (open side Chris Canneaux (H. 2001-06) was the master of this). Our lineout was superbly marshalled by Rupert Baldwin and equally matched by the dart like throwing of Lawrence Hewitt a pit - bull terrier of a hooker. The OB’s eventually ran away with the game 29-5 which was actually a tougher lot than the score line suggested. In the quarterfinal the OB’s met Hampton the winners in 2004. They were a disciplined, swarthy bunch; small and squat in the pack with Wiley fox like backs. The OB’s were stumped for large parts of this game, but like the discombobulated Robbie Rugman (S. 2001-06) , perplexed by the intricacies of the coaching teams hypothesis on unlocking the resolute Hampton defence, the OB’s stuck to their task and eventually overcame it with great heart and exuberance. Once again Will Harris played a crucial role in this, as did the hard yards inside centre Tom Millburn, whom, all day carried and tackled like a true warrior. OB’s running out winners by 17 – 7. Next came Tonbridge. Without question, Tonbridge and Brighton were the two most complete packages in the tournament, both possessing skilful, free running backs as well as having gargantuan ball playing monsters up front. The encounter started predictably, barrage after barrage of black and white hoops lashed the OB’s, who, after soaking up ten minutes of intense physicality retaliated with the final minutes of the first half spent camped irresistibly on the Tonbridge five-yard line. Then, with barely thirty seconds left on the clock, skipper Will Harris made yet another jinking attack from the back of the ruck to squirm his way in for a Brighton score and bring his personal tally to 6 for the afternoon. Claude Cox (D. 2001-06), team physician and re-hydration officer got to work on sore limbs during the break whilst Tom Howell (A. 2000-02 - backs coach) imparted some valuable advice and I tried to thing of as many catch phrases as I could
in one sentence in order to instil that ‘extra ten percent…!’ The second half soon became laboured and heavy, knees buckled, muscles began to cramp up and what had been a lightning quick game, full of ferocity and sparkling with individual talent started to turn weary; that was until the exuberant and highly talented Tonbridge ten intercepted a pass in the middle of the park, he out paced all to slip in neatly under the posts and level the scores at seven a piece. Then with less than a minute left, Tonbridge were awarded a dubious penalty which their ten duly converted and won the game for the boys from Kent. On reflection, Tonbridge, the eventual winners probably deserved to win the game and were certainly the only team at Motspur who could match us for physicality. Thus we were left without a third cup but nonetheless valiant efforts all round were made. I would like to thank John Aiken (A. 1976-81) and Martin Baldwin for all their help in transporting and organising on the day and also to Alex Bremer (R. 1979-83) for his dedicated photography and support. I must also tip my cap to all those parents who once again showed their tremendous and un-wavering support of the team which was helped admirably by the expert coaching of Tom Howell and Adam Phillips (H. 1998-03). The whole squad showed considerable courage and skill to once again put the OB’s and the College on the map as one of Britain’s finest rugby establishments. Here’s to next year. by Hugo Baldwin (S. 1999-03) full report and images: www.oldbrightonians.com/ cronk_cunis_2007_01.htm
Pelican Magazine, September 2007 page 23
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The Lashings XI return to Brighton College - page 20
Pelican sport OB’s Cronk Cunis Adventure, Part III: The Return of the Pack When engaged in the art rugby, the vanquishing of thine enemy can be the warrior’s only concern. This is the first and cardinal rule of our game, of our code, of our very brotherhood. Suppress all human emotion and compassion; destroy whoever stands in thy way. This truth lies at the heart of the art of your combat, be it the power of the number eight or the nimble jink of the fly half. Once it is mastered. Thou shall fear no one. Though the devil himself may bar thy way. With troops draped in maroon and blue battle order, glistening foreheads and a sense of destiny the Old Brightonians took to the field of battle at Motspur Park ready to retake their national trophy for the third time. Their first opponents were Scots; Gordonstoun no less and like Culloden the powerfully armed English drew first blood, quite literally. The bear that is Ben Maidment (R. 2004-06) picked from the base of our scrum and ran over three of the opposition. His sorties up the middle constantly kept the St John’s Ambulance medics busy and many a Scotsman was sent to his doom by our heavy English artillery that day. We quickly scored from Will Harris (S. 2000-05) the captain and talismanic scrum half showing the strength of an open side to rip open the wilting Gordonstoun picket that guarded their line. More tries followed, Alex Keighley (L. 2002-07) a barrel chested brute picked and went from 10 yards out and he was followed by the athletic lock Rupert Baldwin (S. 2001-06) in the second half whose show and go, despite his frame was as angelic as a scrum half. An Orc like scrum half with gigantism and a face that could have lead an Urukai death squad in Lord of The Rings; but a scrum half style
display disp di s la sp lay none lay no n on nee the th hee less. leessss.. Will Wiilllll Harris Haarr H rriiss added adddded ed another and Joe Broun the team’s flier and one of the finest wingers I have ever seen ran in a try from the half way, his long legs, taut with muscle and purpose stripped all the defenders for pace and he rounded un challenged to dispatch the chaps from across the boarder for once and all. Final score 39 – 0, bravo Brighton! The next game had us facing Bristol Grammar, a typically southwestern set of boys, strong, hard and fiery. They took first blood when they went crashing over in the second minute, their big winger riding two big hits to go over. The shock was exactly what the likes of Will Harris, Ben Maidment and Joe Broun needed. These three Titans played with such effort and determination, with such heart and vigour that Bristol, a big team, were quite literally smashed to pieces. Tom Hird (A. 2001-06) and Tom Hayward (D. 2002-06) showed excellent composure in both their darting runs and some ferocious tackling in the centre of the park, whilst our other flyer, Will Murrills (R. 2003-05), like so many of his colleagues in the backs, cut the boys from the west in half, his tall, lean physique showing the percontinued on page 23
Sports news: pages 22 and 23
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