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NUMBER 118
T H E M A R L B U R I A N C LU B M A G A Z I N E WINTER 2017
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The Marlburian Club Magazine Cover story: Daring to Fail Jake Meyer explains why not reaching the summit of the world’s second highest mountain is anything but a failure
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Contents Features 07
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I’ll never forget… My House
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Will Scott writes about C3
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OM Entrepreneurs
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Amici, Romani, Marlburienses
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Five OM Classicists tell us why their chosen subject is far from dying out
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Daring to Fail
Bloodlines: a brief, and highly selective, history of migration in Vienna
The Route Less Flown Richard Mead tells us about 5-star officer and Knight of the Garter Sam Elworthy
The Gift of Human Capital Anna Horsbrugh-Porter interviews Mayoor Patel about his lifetransforming education programmes
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Remembering Roger Whitmore MC
Coco Atnas talks about his home city
The B1 Rustics Marlborough’s cricket club history is looked at by Terry Rogers
Roll of Honour 1917
Jake Meyer on embracing failure after a second unsuccessful attempt at climbing K2
Bayntun Flowers, The Clerkenwell Brothers, Lister’s Brewery and Savernake Knives
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Rare Beauties or White Elephants? Mark Whiteley and Mike Reeves talk to Susanna Spicer about the world of superyachts
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Wilkinson’s Men: the Pioneers of Marlborough College Local historian Nick Baxter looks at those who formed Marlborough’s early years
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Harry Fox: Back to the Front
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Positive Give Back with Princess Leia Kristy Castleton turns her high-end business into life-changing experiences for those in need
Curator to the Crown Art critic Patricia Morison interviews Lucy Whitaker, the Senior Curator of Paintings for Royal Collection Trust
Harry Fox’s First World War letters are looked at by College Archivist, Gráinne Lenehan
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The OMs who gave their lives 100 years ago
the House Shout
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Lords of the Rings As the OM Rifle Club celebrates its 90th birthday, Tony de Launay tells us about its past and present impressive members
Totally Inspirational David Walsh remembers Dennis Silk
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Let’s Get Digital Mark Tidmarsh talks to Simon Peyton-Jones and Gary Shearn about coping in today’s technological world
Regulars VIEW 04 05 06 79
Upfront From the Chair This Year Letters to the Editor
THE CLUB 12 Club Events 18 Professional Group Events 61 OM News 71 Engagements, Marriages & Births 72 Deaths 73 Obituaries 98 Sports & Club Reports THE COLLEGE 82 Looking Ahead 83 The Master’s Review (UK) 84 The Master’s Review (Malaysia) 86 Results and Admissions 2017 87 Valete 92 Development Focus 93 Legacy for Life Campaign 94 1843 Society 97 Development Events LITERARY 105 On the Shelves 110 Crossword
The Marlburian Club, Marlborough College, Wiltshire SN8 1PA Telephone +44 (0)1672 892 384 marlburianclub@marlboroughcollege.org www.marlboroughcollege.org Twitter: @OldMarlburians facebook.com/TheMarlburianClub Editorial and advertising enquiries: +44 (0)1672 892 385 Editor: Catherine Brumwell (NC 1991-96). Editor Emeritus: Martin Evans (CR 1968-). Editorial Board: Susanna Spicer (SU 1979-81), Charlie Corbett (C1 1990-95), Jane Green (B3 1982-84, Communications Manager), Kate Goodwin (Alumni Relations Manager), Alexandra Jackson (CO 1974-76), Harriett Jagger (PR 1976-78). Design: Andy Rawlings. © The Marlburian Club 2017 The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Upfront Since 1843, the founding principle of the College has been to give back: like many major schools, Marlborough is a charitable organisation in philosophy as well as in fact, and it offers resources that provide educational opportunities that reach much wider than the student body. As a result of people’s generosity and innovation, there are more bursaries being offered at Marlborough than ever before. OMs are a success and many are giving back in one form or another. This deserves to be celebrated. The ‘giving back’ approach is typified by the story of Mayoor Patel, whose charity won a Points of Light grant and, among many initiatives, provided money to buy a fully motorised bicycle for a girl in India with polio. Her life is enriched due to the brilliance of a technological mind and the gift of time and resources, made possible by the high achievement and a humanitarian outlook that we believe OMs exemplify. It was once gently suggested that in deciding content for the magazine, caution should be exercised not to spotlight only the ‘high-end stuff ’. The understandable worry was that, taken in isolation and perhaps out of context, it could portray the magazine, and therefore the College, as elitist. I took the advice seriously, of course, and set about searching out news of voluntary work, philanthropy and fundraising. So, you can imagine – when laying out this copy – the panic that set in as I realised that by cutting one piece here, making a change there, and squeezing in some unexpected late entries, I’ve somehow ended up with ostensibly rather high-end content. Concern was soon allayed by the realisation these were tales of OM involvement with top-end organisations, products and achievements that were also fundamentally open-handed and inspirational. It seems exquisite accomplishments and honest altruism are often happy bed fellows. It is a joy to know that we can celebrate OMs who run care homes with equal gusto as those who build superyachts; they may both bring employment and 4
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opportunities and motivation to hundreds of people through their endeavours, as well as giving back their time and contributions to philanthropic causes. An OM who runs her own marketing company dealing with high-end brands has built on the concept of the ‘positive give back’ and quantifies these points of light by way of what she calls ‘impacts’. Brilliant. In the last year, I have sent nearly 1,600 emails from the Editor’s account. If you have found yourself a recipient, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for
your responses – invariably, OMs have something interesting to talk about and my experience has reconfirmed that you love to give back in word as well as deed. The material from our contributors has once again been incredible. Without complaint, they have given up their time to produce some dazzlingly well-written pieces. The dedication of people who help to create amazing content for the magazine is something for which we are really fortunate. The assistance from the exceedingly busy Development Office is second to none and the research of Marlborough’s new archivist, Gráinne Lenehan, has been invaluable, too. I hope you derive as much pleasure from reading this year’s Marlburian as we did from putting it together.
Catherine Brumwell, née Redpath (NC 1991-96) Editor, The Marlburian Club Magazine catherine@theommagazine.co.uk
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From the Chair Two of the principal aims of the Marlburian Club are to build a strong alumni network to assist OMs with their career progression and to provide a path for College leavers to explore professional opportunities, both of these being achieved through informal social events as well as professional meetings and talks. This year has seen a further increase in activity. Social events have been well attended and include seven year-group reunions, five regional dinners, a summer drinks party, OM drinks at Summer School, and the carol service. Seven Professional Groups met this year: OMtrepreneurs, Science & Technology (Digital Players), Law, Women’s Networking, Arts & Media, Property & Business, Banking & Finance (with thanks to Roddy Jack (B3 1977-81), who spoke so informatively at this event). On top of that, the sports groups continue to grow and flourish. OMs have also been very giving of their time in supporting careers talks at the College.
“We are happy to have seen an increase in the attendance of younger OMs and the Club will continue to subsidise them to encourage their participation.” I’m pleased to say our Professional Groups are having an impact, Siena Clarke (NC 2006-11) found employment with Hannah Kapff (EL 1991-93), the founder of Curious PR, as a result of one of the events. We are happy to have seen an increase in the attendance of younger OMs and the Club will continue to subsidise them to encourage their participation. My thanks go to everyone who has supported events and made them so beneficial. One of our other achievements this year has been to change the Marlburian Club Committee structure to ensure we have the correct skillsets and accountability to deliver regular, high-quality events.
We will be hosting a dinner in the summer of 2018 at Hampton Court to celebrate the College’s 175th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of girls at Marlborough. The mentoring programme is also up and running, and if you are interested in mentoring a College student or leaver, please sign in and go to the ‘Mentoring’ section within the Marlburian Club website (www.marlburianclub.org) or contact the Club Office to find out about how you can help. The Club continues to work alongside Swindon Academy to offer similar opportunities to some of the outstanding pupils that we meet on our visits as part of the Momentum Programme. I would like to personally thank Jane Vyvyan (CO 1981-83) for working so tirelessly to support this worthy initiative. Finally, you will not be aware of any of our activities if we don’t have your contact details. Please log in at www.marlburianclub.org and register to make sure you are kept up to date. If you would like to get involved or have ideas to share with us, please email the Club Office on marlburianclub@ marlboroughcollege.org We look forward to seeing you at many of the upcoming Anniversary Celebration events, details of which you can find in the magazine or on the website.
Chris Carpmael (C1 1980-84) Chairman of The Marlburian Club
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This Year I feel slightly fraudulent to be writing to you in the august role of President of the Marlburian Club. Since I left Marlborough, my contact with the school has been negligible. While I was at Oxford, I occasionally returned to take my brother to the Polly Tea Rooms, and I kept in touch with my house master, Bill Spray (CR 1946-70). Over the years, battered copies of this magazine have finally reached me, forwarded from long out-of-date addresses. I’ve usually glanced through them, probably not much more than that, and smiled to spot the odd, familiar name. More recently, I’ve been impressed by how stylish the magazine has become, while mildly alarmed by how very young everyone within its pages seems to be. So, when Olivia Timbs (C1 1970-72) rang and asked if I would like to be President of the Marlburian Club, my first reaction was to decline – there must be so many more appropriate candidates – but when she reminded me that 2018 will mark 50 years since John Dancy (CR 1961-72) took the then-risky and revolutionary decision to allow 15 girls into the Sixth Form, and the school would be celebrating the event, I decided that I should like to be part of that celebration.
“...I realise now how fortunate I was to be part of John Dancy’s bold experiment. It was a real epiphany. I discovered that learning could be fun and challenging.”
On a personal level, I realise now how fortunate I was to be part of John Dancy’s bold experiment. It was a real epiphany. I discovered that learning could be fun and challenging. The Marlborough I joined was going through one of its golden periods. By virtue of the subjects 6
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I was doing – Latin, History and English – I found myself in a small group of boys who were encouraged to be clever, intellectually curious and mildly antiestablishment (it was 1968 after all). With the rosy glow of hindsight, it all seems a bit Alan Bennet, The History Boys, and, like them, we were blessed to be taught by masters who were inspirational in the way that only those who love their subject can be. And much more significantly, these masters taught me, and I think I should probably say taught us, far more than the required curriculum. We were taught to think clearly and critically, and to be outward looking both academically and politically. It was at Marlborough that I was first encouraged to think about society, its function and my role in it. We might not have been active participants in many aspects of the swinging sixties; I never got to the Isle of Wight to see Dylan, but we could at least watch Monty Python. We talked about Vietnam, Northern Ireland, and I suspect I banged on too much about the onward march of that still novel American import: Women’s Liberation. I hope that everyone lucky enough to be at Marlborough today is enjoying a similarly invigorating experience. I am thrilled to see the quiet revolution started by John Dancy has come full circle, with a whole house devoted to girls, and most appropriately named after him and his late wife, Angela. Just as significantly, the revolution continues in the appointment of Louise Moelwyn-Hughes (CR 19922005) as the first woman Master. 2018 looks set to be a memorable year for the College and the Marlburian Association, and I am delighted and proud that I will be part of it.
Elizabeth Clough (LI 1968-70) President of The Marlburian Club
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Totally Inspirational Beak and international cricketer Dennis Silk David Walsh (C1 1960-65) dedicated his 2013 book, Public Schools and the Great War, to Dennis Silk (CR 1955-68) – someone he refers to as not only a mentor but also a friend.
C1 House Photo 1964, Dennis Silk front middle
sk anyone to recollect their schooldays, and he or she will recall one or two people who made a lasting difference to their lives. It was Dennis Silk who made a lasting difference to mine from those first Marlborough days in A1 to the last happy terms in C1. There was English medieval history in the History Fifth and his comment on an inadequately researched essay – “too many glib assumptions and too much dangerous skating but well bowled”; Churchill’s funeral watched in his drawing room on a cold January morning; the smell of wintergreen in the Level Broadleaze pavilion as he prepared us to resist successfully the might of Wellington; a shared love of P.G. Wodehouse; and hanging on for dear life in that old Bedford van on the way to a house prefects’ dinner in Devizes.
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Dennis came to teach at Marlborough in 1955 and left in 1968, at the age of 37, to become Warden of Radley. In his 23 years at Radley, he transformed it into
Dennis with John Waterlow (CO 1959-63) at the 1963 Rugby XV Reunion Dinner
one of the best schools in England. Eric Anderson, Eton headmaster, wrote that “those of us who were headmasters during his era acknowledged that he was the best of us all”. At Marlborough, he enriched the lives of many generations of schoolboys as teacher, housemaster, games coach, and mentor, giving them a perception of the values that underpinned his own life – selfdiscipline, commitment, self-awareness, the importance of service, but also a strong sense of fun. These were values all teachers had to fight hard to preserve in
the turbulent waters of the 1960s and 1970s. A formidable games player himself, with cricket and rugby blues from Cambridge, he inspired successive 1st XVs, his crowning glory the winning of the Rosslyn Park Sevens in 1957, with future racehorse trainer Ian Balding (SU 195256) one of the team. He was a consummate all-rounder, valuing all aspects of school life – academic, athletic and cultural – and the necessity of keeping them in balance, but it was as a housemaster, “the best job in teaching” he told me later, for which I appreciated him most. There are many other reasons for my own debt of gratitude to Dennis, not least in the encouragement of my own teaching vocation, but perhaps the most important and lasting was the nurturing of my lifetime interest in the history and literature of the Great War. At Marlborough, in 1964, Dennis introduced me to Siegfried Sassoon (CO 1902-04). His own friendship with Sassoon had begun in the Fenner’s pavilion at Cambridge in 1953 when Edmund Blunden, like Dennis a Christ’s Hospital boy, asked his fellow war poet to look Dennis up at the cricket. It was the prelude to 13 years of strong and joyful friendship, a bond that stimulated those memorable ‘Sassoon lectures’, which Dennis gave in later life. The proximity of Heytesbury, Sassoon’s house, to Marlborough allowed this to flourish and occasionally brought Sassoon back to his alma mater. Dennis recalled that Siegfried “blossomed in the company of young people and gave richly of his energy and vitality”. I borrowed Memoirs of an Infantry Officer from Dennis, who then gave me other classic Great War memoirs to read. I remember his delight too when I came back from the White Horse Bookshop with a copy of The Letters of Charles Sorley. Radley was extraordinarily astute in its choice of Warden in 1968, but we who benefited from the care and guidance of Dennis and Diana at Marlborough will always know how lucky we were. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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I’ll never forget... the House Shout “The two hours spent in the Mem Hall the night before half term were two of the most lively and creative seen in the College for a long time. This was the revival of a competition that had died in the mid-sixties, and it was well worth waiting all those years for.” John Snell (SU 1978-83), Marlburian Review, 1982.
frivolity. “The atmosphere was so intense that the Master received what seemed like several minutes of screams, whistles, cheers, applause and anything else you can think of. The beginning was to set the tone for the whole evening.” It’s not known exactly when the House Shout was first known as such, but the colloquialism remained in use until the early 1990s. However, around this time, the evening also began to get more unruly and harder to control, and repeated requests for the audience’s enthusiasm to be contained were required. The watershed moment arrived in 1991, when the new girls of New Court were booed off stage for singing I Know Him So Well from Chess (a classic by anyone’s reckoning). This was considered a step too far and the House Shout was closed down. It was reborn in 1995 by Edward Gould (Master 1993-2004) under a new name, House Unison Song Competition. As reported in the 1995 Review, that year’s competition “was a far cry from the dark and mysterious days of the House Shout”.
The B3 Boppers, 1982. Jane Green (B3 1982-84), Georgia Jenson née Norgaard (B3 1981-83), Nicola Miller née Christie (B3 1982-84), Elizabeth Horton née Awty (B3 1981-83). “Again, we returned to the setting gel and pony tails for Barbara Ann. This was well performed and was probably the most musical of the more dramatic entries. It was fast and lively, audible and well rehearsed; it must have been close to the winning post.”
he first House Music competition took place in the gymnasium on 13 April 1872. Rejoicing under the fabulous title The Glee Competition, it required each group of singers and/or soloists to sing prescribed songs. The Glee Cup itself was donated by Gerard Francis Cobb (C1 1849-57), brother of Clement Francis Cobb (Ca 1843-46), the first ever Senior Prefect of Marlborough College.
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The House Glee Competition review continued to appear in The Marlburian until the 1950s. It then went unreported until the above 1982 Review, which also gave much reference to the fun and
“The atmosphere was so intense that the Master received what seemed like several minutes of screams, whistles, cheers...” 8
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Nowadays, it is listed as the House Singing Competition in the Almanac, but everyone still refers to it as the House Shout. On reflection, the old-style Shout probably caused joy and misery in equal measure: it was certainly the cause of mopping up afterwards by both pupils and beaks. It’s been told, on good authority, that the reformed version is much better musically, far more orderly, and enjoyed just as much. One of the biggest things to emerge from the new competition, which has lost none of its fun, was the House Harmony. It has proven a winning addition to the Shout’s content, providing some really inspiring performances and showcasing the wealth of artistic talent. The muchimproved technology has certainly added to the overall standard of the event, and any scope for claims of unfair judging has now diminished; the boys’ houses now win as regularly as the girls’. Put all these factors together and it continues to give us all something to shout about.
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My House: C3 Will Scott (C3 2004-09) Nothing prepared me for joining C3 in the Shell. I had lived in London all my short life, only been to day school, and never stayed away from home for more than a few nights. I found myself sharing a room with eight strangers and a roof with 60 more. All this in unfamiliar surroundings of verdant fields, trout ponds, and chalk downs. Thankfully, the confusion didn’t last. Before long, many of those strangers had become friends for life and I came to appreciate C3’s unique setting within College. For me, life in C3 almost always revolved around sport and our House Master, Sean Dempster (CR 1994-2017), encouraged us to experiment with as many as possible. In the summer, you could easily play five different sports in a day. The time between breakfast and first lesson was filled with table tennis or a clandestine game of corridor cricket. After lunch, representatives from every
year could be found hacking a football around the Mill Mead pitch behind the house. Returning from games, it would be more football or maybe some fishing on the Kennet with Mr Dempster. After the oppressive confines of prep, we all spilled back out onto Mill Mead for the most serious football or touch rugby showdowns, which pitted year groups against one another and often ran into the darkness. The camaraderie forged in a life of perpetual motion translated into a strong house spirit that was always on show during inter-house competitions. I particularly remember the febrile atmosphere of house water polo. The swimming pool seats filled with maroon and white and laundry bins upturned into booming drums, reverberating off the metal roof. This spirit was not confined to sporting endeavours and reached its zenith each year during the House Shout campaign. We were lucky enough to win in my Hundreds year. The evening began with C3 and Mill Mead marching and chanting together for the short journey to the Memorial Hall and culminated in an unprecedented double victory. Mill Mead took the overall honours for their angelic interpretation of Madonna’s Like a Prayer, and C3 won the boys’ competition for a somewhat more boisterous rendition of the Back Street Boys’ Larger than Life. Both houses returned to the Link Room for a raucous celebration, which encapsulated the special relationship between the houses. As we moved through the ranks at C3, more trust and responsibility was placed on our shoulders. In Upper Sixth, this was rewarded each Friday after prep with “Captains” in the House Master’s living room. Over pizza, music and the occasional shandy, we were encouraged to share our views and debate the issues of the day. It was from these moments I learned the most about the balancing act that made a successful boarding house tick. Looking back, we were lucky to have had the opportunity to cement lasting bonds, try new things, and grow in a friendly environment. For me, C3 was the perfect fusion of laughter, competitiveness and fellowship, and my time there equipped me with tools I still use today. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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OM Entrepreneurs Prince William. Stocking florists in Wiltshire and doing small private events. Workshops are held throughout the year, and there was a recent collaboration with Anna Pavord for a day of tulipomania.
Bayntun Flowers The Founder: Polly Nicholson (née Bayntun-Coward) (PR 1986-88) The Business: Organic flower farming.
The Future: To continue the British flower movement and take a greater percentage of the market share away from Dutch imports. To reintroduce historic and forgotten flowers back to the marketplace, infusing homes with scent, texture and colour.
The Beginning: As an antiquarian book expert at Sotheby’s, the production of gardening books reignited a childhood interest in flowers. After retraining at the Chelsea Physic Garden and moving to Wiltshire, Bayntun Flowers started growing flowers commercially. The Eureka Moment: Realising that all the ingredients for successful flower farming were on her doorstep: rich, black, alluvial soil; plenty of sun; and even more rain. The Dough: Private investment. The Keys to Success: Growing flowers that aren’t readily available in any of the commercial flower markets: Historic English Florists’ Tulips dating back to 1760, Persian Fritillaries, Cedric Morris Irises and Sweet Peas. Strict environmen-
The Nitty-Gritty: www.bayntunflowers.co.uk Instagram: @bayntunflowers tally-friendly methods are followed, with a bore hole for irrigation and bees kept to aid pollination. The Present: Supplying wholesale to florists in London including Shane Connolly, Creative Floral Director at the wedding of TRHs The Duchess of Cambridge (EL 1996-2000) and
The Clerkenwell Brothers
The Dough: The set up costs were next to nothing. Simply, three people with three laptops, selling ideas.
The Founders: Nick Horowitz (C3 200207) and Cass Horowitz (C3 2004-09)
The Keys to Success: Be different. Apply that to everything you do, be it your positioning, your approach to clients but especially the content you create.
The Business: A creative agency and production house that specialises in working with start-ups. The agency offers a full-service approach that includes video production, online content creation, experiential and billboards. The Beginning: Living in Clerkenwell, Nick was a film director and Cass worked in journalism. They approached local independents who couldn’t afford traditional marketing. What started as one or two small jobs snowballed into much bigger projects. The Eureka Moment: Cass running into an old university friend, who worked at Propercorn. He filled a particular skills gap and had great contacts in the food and drink industry. He joined the team and the company launched. 10
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The Present: The team has doubled in size and has launched a PR arm. The Future: Working with Whole Foods UK and applying startup mentality to bigger businesses that want to inject energy into their marketing. The Nitty-Gritty: younger@theclerkenwellbrothers.com or older@theclerkenwellbrothers.com Twitter: @Clerkenwellbros
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Lister’s Brewery The Founder: Phil Waite (BH 199499) and Katie Coakes (née Waite) (EL 1992-97) The Business: Producing consistently good-quality beers, traditional in flavour and easy to drink. Lister’s is a Corporate Partner of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, donating 5p from every pint and bottle to the charity, successfully combining the public’s love for ‘man’s best friend’ with the quintessentially British pastime of drinking beer. The Beginning: 2012. The Eureka Moment: From tentative experiments with home brewing came the realisation that head brewer,
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Phil Waite, had created a fabulous beer that was being demanded faster than it could be brewed. The Dough: Self-funded through family investment, a local government grant and a small business start-up loan. The Keys to Success: The tale of their dog, Lister, from Battersea Dogs Home, makes a great story and opened up a partnership with one of the largest charities in the world. By not limiting themselves to a niche, of-the-moment market such as craft beer, they opened themselves up to a wider market with greater longevity. They provide first-class customer service and take orders and deliver 365 days a year. The Present: A range of six beers, available in cask and 500ml bottles, being sold all over the country. The Future: Develop more beers, including a beer to be brewed for Battersea Dogs Home, supermarket sales, international export and establishing a bigger brewery. The Nitty-Gritty: www.listersbrewery.com www.facebook.com/listersbrewery Twitter: @listersbrewery
Savernake Knives The Founder: Laurie Timpson (B1 1986-1989) The Business: Made-to-order and bespoke chef ’s knives. Instead of artistic pieces of work that are made from carbon and take months to arrive, Savernake Knives use F1 technology (and a lot of elbow grease) to make customised knives in two weeks. They offer precisely tailored sets, one-offs for the home and completely bespoke knives for the professionals. The technology allows for precision and daring design at a cost that’s affordable at the level of an individual knife. The Beginning: Buying an anvil and a forge to escape Excel for a while. The Eureka Moment: A private equity presentation in London looking at madeto-order in non-traditional markets. The Dough: Funded personally. The Keys to Success: Finding something that no one else offers. The Present: Launching the revamped website, nailing down packaging and making knives for some well-known names to help the company increase exposure. The Future: Be the go-to provider of bespoke knives for professional chefs; have the designs grace beautiful and hard-working kitchens across the UK and Europe. The Nitty-Gritty: www.savernakeknives.co.uk 01672 870 120 The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Club Events Five-Year Reunion: the Class of 2011 21 September 2016 The class of 2011 kicked off this year’s record number of reunions. They met at The Jam Tree in London where old friends and housemates re-connected and found out how life post-school was treating everyone. The 1970s alumni enjoying their decade reunion
Joe Hare (C3 1999 -2004)
Rory Manley (TU 2006-11), James Bott ( C3 200611), Tatiana Pearson Gregory (NC 2006-11), George Stewart-Lockhart (B1 2006-11), Jessica Hollingbery (NC 2006-11)
David Campbell (CR 2012-17), Steven Bishop (PR 1969-73), Robert Sutcliffe (PR 1969-73), Tim MartinJenkins (B3 1961-65) Club President
Club Day 9 October 2016
Saskia Naylor (MM 2006-11), Laura JardinePaterson (LI 2009-11)
East Sussex Dinner 11 November 2016 Twenty East Sussex OMs met for their annual get-together at the Star Pub in Waldron near Heathfield. As usual, the noise level was high and it was particularly noticeable how all the different generations present seemed to have so much in common. Any OMs living in East Sussex are welcome to join us at future events. Please email robinbather@hotmail.com for more information. 12
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Over 200 OMs turned out for the 2016 Club Day and 1970s-decade reunion. The day began in Chapel with a service with the College Choir, after which the Adderley filled up for the AGM where Olivia Timbs (C1 1970-72) presided and Tim Martin-Jenkins (B3 1961-65) was elected as Club President. At the reception in the marquee, OMs caught up with each other and listened as the Master gave a short welcome and an update on the latest news from the College. After lunch in Norwood Hall, OMs enjoyed a talk in the Marlburian by Stephen Cooper on his award-winning book ‘The Final Whistle: The Great War in Fifteen Players’ that follows the poignant stories of rugby men at war, including many Marlburians. During the rest of the afternoon there was
much to enjoy; some made their way to the Maples pitch to watch the OM Girls’ Hockey team v the Girls’ 1st XI and some to cheer on the OM Football Team as they took on a team made up of College staff on the Water Meadow football pitch. Others enjoyed looking at the Rare Books Exhibition or the Archive Exhibition on Victorian Marlborough or took a tour of their old house with current pupils of each house acting as guides. For most, the day finished with tea in the Marquee; however, those who were at the College in the 1970s attended their decade reunion drinks in the Common Room Dining Room, where they were able to catch up with old friends. Once again, Club Day was a great success, allowing OMs to take a trip down memory lane and providing an opportunity to see College life as it is now.
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Thirty-Five-Year Reunion: the Class of 1981 19 November 2016 Sixty Old Marlburians enjoyed a very vibrant evening in Pimlico catching up on the past 35 years. And what a 35 years it has been! With people in a mixture of fascinating jobs and many married with teenage children, there was much to talk about. There was an especially good turn out from B1, B2 and C1, and many had travelled from afar. Also – rare for an OM event – many spouses came, too. Some of us meet privately and keep in regular contact, but it was lovely to get everyone together for an official OM event.
Emma Bond (C2 1984-86), Andrea Davies – wife of Simon Davies (CO 1982-86)
Thirty-Year Reunion: the Class of 1986 3 February 2017
Simon Lodge, John Skrine, Rafe Courage, John Lorimer (all C1 1976-81)
Charlotte Bannister-Parker (C2 1979-81), Andrew Gibson (C1 1976-81), Fiona Pearson (BH 1979-81)
Apart from a change in hair and waistlines, remarkably little had changed in 30 years. Over 60 members of the class of 1986 met up in London and it was agreed that another event in five years would be more than welcome.
Edinburgh Dinner Carol Service 14 December 2016 Over 300 people gathered at Chelsea Old Church, London, for the OM Carol Service.
Now a popular fixture in the annual events calendar, the service was followed by a drinks reception, where the Master, Jonathan Leigh, was among the many in attendance.
Natalia Chance (MO 2009-14), Martin Evans (CR 1968-) President 1843 Society, Natalie Evans (LI 2011-14), Ben Christopher (TU 2001-14)
24 March 2017 Attendees to this year’s annual dinner ranged from current undergrads to our most senior OM – who left C2 in 1947. This made for a successful and very enjoyable evening. Refreshingly, for some, there was no mention of Brexit, Donald Trump or even the prospect of a second Scottish referendum. Instead, the assembled company enjoyed updates from the Marlburian Club President, Tim MartinJenkins (B3 1961-65), on the everexpanding activity and opportunities available to the OM community and Jaideep Barot (CR 2014), Deputy Head (Academic), who talked about the current health of Marlborough. Both speakers painted a truly positive picture of the College and its wider community. They emphasised the strategic aim of the College to seek to connect OMs of all generations, professionally and socially, once again reinforcing that a Marlborough education is a legacy for life. The evening was tinged with sadness as James Scott (LI 1942-46) was unable to attend due to his recent move to a care home in Wiltshire. A heartfelt toast was raised in his honour. Not only did Tim Jackson (B2 1955-59) do a wonderful job at promoting the event, but he also closed proceedings with witty and entertaining words. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Club Events New York Drinks 6 April 2017 Monsoon-like weather did not deter 30 OMs from gathering for a reception at the home of Nitzia Logothetis (TU 1999-2001) on the upper east side of Manhattan. Representing the College were Jan Perrins (Foundation Development Manager),
Niall Hamilton (CR 1985-) and Clive (TU 1979-84) and Caryn Robertson
Jon Copp (CR 1981-) and Niall Hamilton (CR 1985-). The New York Club Secretary, Caesar Bryan (B2 1968-73), will be organising events to celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the College and 50 years of co-education, and would like to make sure that invitations reach you. Please contact the office to ensure you’re on the list.
Michael Albert, Nitzia Logothetis (TU 19992001), Tom Mucklow (CO 2003-08), Amy Albert née Kirkwood (EL 1992-97)
Martin Geach (B2 1982-87), William Barnes Yallowley (C2 1982-87), Christopher Ng (B2 1983-87), Rupert McCammon (PR 1982-87), Kelly Richdale (TU 1985-87)
Neil Gardner (TU 1985-87), Tim Kirkwood (TU 1982-87), Mark Stucklin (B1 1982-87), Kevin Chan (EL/B2 1982-87), Paola Klat (now Kalisperas) (C2)
St Paul’s Evensong 25 April 2017 Many of the Marlborough Community enjoyed a wonderful drinks reception after the service at St Paul’s, where the College Choir sung Evensong. Following the drinks at St Martin-within-Ludgate Church, the Master, Jonathan Leigh, and Nigel Grieve (B1 1957-60) both said a few words.
1957 Rosslyn Park Winners’ Lunch 9 May 2017 Members of the victorious 1957 Rosslyn Park Sevens Team Anthony Tanner (LI 1953-57), Ian Balding (SU 1952-56), Richard Stanton (SU 1953-58), John Collier (C2 1954-58), Peter Bell (CO 1951-56), John Skinner (B1 1952-57) and Nicholas Hill-Norton (C1 195357), along with coaches Ian Beer (CR 1955-61), an England International, and Dennis Silk (CR 1955-68) met for their 60th reunion lunch in the Common 14
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Thirty-Year Reunion: the Class of 1987 Room Dining Room. Marlborough played Llandovery in the final, which they won 18-0 and this still remains the only Marlborough Sevens team who have won this prestigious competition.
12 May 2017 Around one hundred 1987 leavers converged on the Hollywood Arms in Chelsea and all nerves disappeared on arrival. OMs came from everywhere including Singapore, US, Australia and South Africa. Jon Copp (CR 1981-) was in attendance and Tim Kirkwood’s (TU 1982-87) video of our Leavers’ Ball was played above the bar. We drank a toast to four of the year who are sadly no longer with us, and to the brave and glamorous girls who joined us in the 6th Form. A long and memorable night, hopefully to be repeated.
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Fifty-Year Reunion: the Classes of 1965, 1966 and 1967 13 May 2017 This wonderful reunion lunch in Adderley had the added attraction of a 1st XI cricket match. Old friendships were renewed and outrageous behaviour
Peter Greene (C3 1961-65), Guy Needham (SU 1959-64), Nicholas Baum (PR 1961-65)
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by both boys and Beaks remembered, and many who were returning to the College for the first time wished they had done so much earlier. The excellent and enjoyable drinks and lunch seemed too short a time to catch up and several OMs suggested that any upcoming reunions could include an overnight stay and, therefore, give the chance to see more friends.
Andrew Birtwell (B3 1959-64), Harley Nott (B3 1962-1966), Tim (B3 1962-66) and Sylvia Stephens, Bryan Lee-Smith (C1 1963-68)
Past Presidents’ Lunch 13 May 2017 In medieval times, Amberley Castle, in the midst of the West Sussex countryside, was the summer retreat for the Bishops of Chichester, who had expanded it into a well-fortified comfortable home, until Oliver Cromwell destroyed much of it as a Royalist stronghold. In May this year, there was a good turn out from suitably venerable Past Presidents of the Marlburian Club, who enjoyed the lovely walled gardens and fine food in The Great Room, which is now a splendid hotel. Jonathan (Master 2012-) and Emma Leigh and Martin Evans (CR 1968-) were welcome guests. The Master gave a well-received update on the current status of the school. The President, Tim Martin-Jenkins (B3 1961-65), reported on the current objectives of the Club, and spoke of the need for the College to develop a culture of giving and for OMs and parents to recognise that Marlborough is and always has been an educational charity. John Worlidge (C2 1942-46), as the Senior Past President, thanked the organisers and proposed the health of the Club.
Summer Drinks Party 24 May 2017 The exceptionally elegant and historic rooms of the Stationers’ Hall and its charming, shady garden are hidden gems nestling in the heart of the City of London. The Club has been incredibly spoiled in recent years by the generosity of the Company’s Clerk, William Alden (TU 1968-72), who this year hosted the third Summer Drinks Party to be held there. The weather, which has favoured each of these especially popular informal OM gatherings, was again simply lovely, and summer kicked off with great enjoyment for all, as they supped on scrummy canapés and delicious wines but a stone’s throw from St Paul’s. This is a particularly inclusive and relaxed event that draws OMs from all generations and occupations; one pities the Stationers’ staff who every year have to prise Marlburians out when the witching hour is reached, so reluctant are they to leave. That was particularly so this year for it was a special delight for many of the guests to whom she was well known, to welcome back, as a guest, Jane Pendry, the former Club Alumni Relations Manager.
Edward Stancliffe (C1 1988-93), Francesca Geogheghan (CO 2009-11), Nicholas Coates (C3 2000-01) The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Club Events Twenty-Five-Year Reunion: the Class of 1992 10 June 2017 This reunion included a drinks reception in Court, attended by the Master, Jonathan Leigh, and several Beaks – some of whom taught at the College 25 years ago! Guests, who had come from all over the world, then retreated to the marquee for a hog roast, before the evening continued with OMs taking the opportunity to catch up, reminisce and revisit some old spots in town.
Hugh de Saram (C1 1960-64 & CR 1979-2005) and Tim Woodhouse (LI 1987-92)
Summer School Drinks Parties July-August 2017 On every Wednesday of Summer School, OMs gathered for wine, nibbles and a catch up. Sadly, due to the weather this year, we were only able to hold one of the drinks in Court but the marquee provided a sheltered venue and it was good to see new faces among the regular attendees. The Master and Mrs Leigh were able to join us on three occasions, enabling OMs to catch up with College news.
Georgia Webster, Samantha Brown, Sandra Clark (CR 1988-2004), Lucy Russell, Victoria BuckleySharp, Susie Lipman (all MM 1990-92)
Twenty-Year Reunion: the Class of 1997 15 June 2017 A fantastic night of reminiscing took place in south-west London, with OMs coming from near and far. The class was especially pleased that Juliana Khalaf, sister of Nadim Khalaf (TU 1992-1997), who was Senior Prefect for two terms in 1997, could join us in his honour. The evening was brilliantly organised by Amy Kirkwood Albert (EL 1992-97), George Comyn (B1 1992-97), Lara Cowan (MO 1992-97), Olly Crawley (C1 1992-97) and Emma Clarkson nĂŠe Pocock (PR 1995-97).
Ali Pick, Bob Pick (CR 1980-2017) and Jon Copp (CR 1981-)
Jane Green (B3 1982-84), Laura Pick (EL 19992004), William Linley-Adams
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Thinking of visiting MC? OMs are more than welcome to visit the College but, for security reasons, we ask that you call ahead to arrange your visit on:
The 2017 1st XI team at Lord’s before the match
01672 892385 or email marlburianclub@ marlboroughcollege.org
Max Read (TU 2012-17) on his way to an unbeaten 141
Jonathan Thornton (B3 1960 -65), David Allen (C1 1961-65)
Marlborough v Rugby Cricket Match at Lord’s
Earlier in the day, some members of the 1950, 1954, 1957 and 1958 XIs arranged to meet outside the Pavilion. It was the first time many had seen each other since leaving Marlborough, and they had much to catch up on as they gathered on the lawn of the Memorial Gardens for a group picture.
12 August 2017 A superb game of cricket, befitting of the venue and the combined total of 625 years of school history, saw Marlborough emerge winners by 25 runs in a topsy-turvy encounter packed with drama. The game was played in fantastic spirit that epitomised the fierce rivalry but strong friendship and camaraderie that exists between the two cricketing schools. Neither side deserved to lose and cricket was very much the winner, as these privileged group of school pupils enjoyed a oncein-a-lifetime experience playing on the hallowed turf of the most famous cricket ground in the world. Following the match, a reception in the Long Room for both Marlborough and Rugby was hosted by Robert Leigh (C1 1957-61), Treasurer of MCC and Mike Griffith (C3 1957-62), Trustee of MCC. Afterwards, Robert welcomed everyone, Mike spoke, and then he invited the Master and Rugby’s team captain to say a few words.
We will always try and accommodate you if you turn up at the last minute, but please be aware that there will be times when this is not possible.
Julian Cartwright (B3 1949-54) said: “I enjoyed the cricket, especially the result, the atmosphere, and meeting so many old and new friends. We met fellow OMs outside the pavilion doors; soon Neil Stratford (PR 1951-56) appeared (meeting for the first time after 63 years); we then met Mark Tress (C1 1949-54) – all that was left of the 1954 XI. We had a happy day mainly in the pavilion but picnicking in the Memorial Gardens at lunchtime.” He added: “I explored a bit and found other OMs in other parts of the grounds. Peter Worlidge (C2 194449) was there, Captain in 1949 and Pat Hudson (C2 1946-50), Charles Woodhouse (LI 1955-59) travelled down from Cumbria by train. It was a brilliant and special day, much enjoyed by all.” The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Professional Group Events Digital Players OMtrepreneurs – Pitch & Putt 8 September 2016 The OMtrepreneurs met to listen to two highly insightful talks and five OMtrepreneur pitches, as well as to hit a few golf balls on the City Golf simulators. Kyle Burrows (C1 198690) kicked off proceedings by sharing his experience of how to make sales. Peter Tahany (C3 197378) then passed on his top tips from 30 years of advising entrepreneurs on how best to achieve a successful exit (notes available on request). Rob Davenport (PR 1968-73) pitched how his company, Locpin, could increase the efficiency of delivery companies – saving time and money through its precise e-location technology. Fergie Miller (C2 1992-97) continued the transport theme with The Local Courier’s SEIS pitch – an Uberstyle courier app that looks to upgrade corporations’ business
logistics efficiency. The ability to make cost savings of scale and at speed were also the take away from Jamie Garner’s (C1 1988-93) pitch about Garner Haines and how its unique workforce analytics technology could benefit corporates. Henry Barclay (C2 2007-12) made the special effort of coming down from Manchester to enlighten us to the infinite possibilities of VCode, a two-dimensional code linking the physical world to a purchase, as well as acting as a secure identifier. James Talbot (PR 197478) followed nicely on from Peter’s talk by flagging that, for those thinking of selling their businesses, James offers a roundtable to get business owners to focus on what they need to do to make their companies more attractive to a potential purchaser. The event was sponsored by Mike Arnott (C1 1989-94) and Entrepreneurial Lawyers for Entrepreneurs MBM Commercial.
8 November 2016 At the annual Digital Players gathering, many new faces mixed with older hands creating mirth and inspiration aplenty. Conversations spanned industries from advertising to medicare and, of course, to memories of many other Marlburians unable to join.
Jan Perrins (Development Director), Philip Chope (LI 2005-2010), David Chase (PR 1994-99)
Patrick Walker (CO 1970-74), Edward Lock (LI 1966-70)
Law 17 January 2017 January saw the inaugural meeting of the Law Group. There was a wide range of ages, from those well established in careers to those just starting out, and with different branches of the law represented as well. Claire Jacob née Evans (B2 1986-88) arranged for the event to be held at the offices of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys. Philip Cayford (PR 1965-70) welcomed everyone and asked them to think about how the group could progress; what type of events they would welcome; how they could help OMs starting out in the law profession; and how to help current pupils who may be interested in a career in law. 18
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Woman’s Network 7 March 2017 The Women’s Network gathering included lively discussion, excellent networking opportunities, and a real show of interest in the newly launched mentoring programme. There was a panel discussion focused on how to get the most out of mentoring run by Catherine Stewart (LI 1974-76), Michelle Jana Chan (TU 1990-92), Kristy Castleton (CO 1994-96), and Samantha Peter (MM 1991-93). Catherine is a Senior Advisor to Interel and Partner at Jericho Chambers and holds a variety of non-executive and pro-bono board positions related to education, women’s professional
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development, and entrepreneurship. Michelle is the current Deputy Editor of the Daily Telegraph’s Ultra Travel Magazine. With offices in London, Shanghai, Amsterdam and Singapore, Kristy is the founder of Rebel & Soul and Calyx Tech and delivers brand experiences for some of the biggest global companies. Samantha is Head of Marketing at Google for Education and manages a global team that creates dozens of programmes to help advance innovative thinking in education through the use of technology, she also co-created the internationally acclaimed Google Science Fair, an online global science competition for teenagers that encourages them to change the world through scientific inquiry and invention.
Sophie Allen (MO 1994-99), John Ring (C2 1994-99)
Bradley Miles (TU 2005-10), George Blakey (C2 2006-11), Piers Windsor (B1 2003-08)
Miranda Lindsay Fynn (NC1991-96), Alex Salkend (B1 1993-95)
Zhivka Ivanova (TU 2011-13), Hannah McCollum (MM 2003-08), Lara Cowen (MO 1992-97)
Gabriella Starling (EL 1999-2004), Xanthe Keuppers (SU 2002-04), Tamara Dupree (MO 1999-2004)
Arts & Media 20 April 2017 Group Secretaries Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97) and Andrew Shepherd (LI 1993-98) introduced the evening and spoke about their plans for the future development of the group. During the night, theatre director and Guardian journalist Susannah held panel discussions with Naomi Ladenburg née Kerbel (NC 199398), Head of Global TV, Radio Scheduling and Special Projects at Bloomberg; theatre producer Joshua Andrews (B2 1985-90); and entrepreneur Ali Wade (TU 198994). There was an informal chat discussing the importance and usefulness of good networking in the arts and media industries.
Frances Leith (EL 2007-12), Lewis BorgCardona (BH 1973-77), Pete Woodroffe (B3 1974-79)
Libby Adam, Breagha Campbell (both MM 2012-17), Zhivka Ivanova (TU 2011-13), Jessica Charlwood (MM 2009-14)
OM Property Group Networking 17 May 2017 A convivial evening was had by over 50 members of the group. Ages ranged from the mid 80s down to the early 20s and, as a result, new friendships were forged and old ones re-established with some property chat thrown in for good measure! Jaideep Barot (Deputy Head, Academic CR 2014-) then provided an informative update on College activities. Secretary James Gilett (C2 1971-75) reported that, a few weeks after the event, he completed a commercial property deal on behalf of a landlord involving Sam Rogers (B1 1992-97), who was representing the tenant, and Tom Cannon (C2 1993-98), who undertook the construction works. No better example of the value of OM networking! The Property Group has almost 300 members and covers a wide spectrum of disciplines within the property industry from surveyors, residential and commercial agents, architects and also from associated construction industries. Another drinks is planned for 2018 and it is hoped that there will be a dinner in 2019. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Professional Group Events Business, Banking & Finance 20 June 2017 Roderick Jack (B3 1977-81) of Adelphi Capital was the guest speaker at June’s BB&F event held in Mayfair. Rod provided a fantastic insight into his career explaining candidly how he progressed from a strategy consultant with the LEK partnership through to founding Adelphi Capital, one of Europe’s longestestablished hedge funds. He gave his view on what is required to be a good investor and highlighted the importance of focusing on what you know. The event was relaxed and the audience was invited to be involved in the discussions. It was a sweltering evening but fortunately there was plenty of rosé to keep everyone cool.
Imran Tayabali (LI 1989-94), Rod Jack (B3 197781), Nadir Latif (B3 1976-80)
How to get involved? If you would like to join a Professional Group, be kept informed of its development, and be invited to events, please either email the Club office marlburianclub@marlborough college.org or email the group head directly Art, Architecture & Design Simon Henley (CO 1981-85) simon@hhbr.co.uk
Masonic Lodge Julian Soper (LI 1979-81) julian.r.soper@mac.com
Arts & Media Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97) stresilian@gmail.com Alethea Steven (MC 1994-99) aletheasteven@hotmail.com Andrew Shepherd (LI 1993-98) andrew@theatre503.com
Music Simon Arnold (B1 1971-76) via the Club
Business, Banking & Finance Imran Tayabali (LI 1989-94) imran@ttandw.co.uk
Public Sector Sue Bishop (C2 1977-79) laopengyou2003@gmail.com
Clergy Charlotte Bannister-Parker (C2 1979-81) charlottebannisterparker@gmail.com
Property James Gillett (C2 1971-75) jgillett@savills.com
Education Craig Stewart (B3 1979-84) via the Club Engineering James Meredith (B2 1988-93) j.meredith@sheffield.ac.uk
Nicholas Brown (CO 1998-93), Ed Harvey (CO 1989-94), Adrian Cornwall (B1 1989-94)
Entrepreneurs Ali Wade (TU 1989-94) alisdairwade@hotmail.co.uk James Leighton-Davis (B2 1987-89) james@leightondavis.com Healthcare Sam Barclay (C2 2001-06) via the Club HM Forces Jamie Geddes (TU 2002-07) jfgeddes98@hotmail.com
Christopher Bishop (PR 2000-05), Charles Laughton (TU 1994-99) 20
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Law Claire Evans (B2 1986-88) claireevans2000@yahoo.com
Not for Profit Mayoor Patel (PR 1973-77) mayoor@poliochildren.org
PR, Marketing, Communications and Recruitment Alex Northcott (B1 1982-87), Karen Hill (B2/MM 1988-90) aenorthcott@gmail.com Digital Mark Tidmarsh (B3 1983-87) mark.tidmarsh@gmail.com Jim Spender (C2 1987-92) james@fiftyten.com Women’s Network Lara Cowan (MO 1992-97) laracowanip@gmail.com Caroline Laidlaw (MO1992-96) caroline@laidlawassociates.co.uk Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97) stresilian@gmail.com You don’t need to be working within a particular industry to come along to the events or join a group, everyone is welcome. If you have any ideas for events or would be able to host or sponsor an event, please contact the Club Office.
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Diary Dates Thursday 23 November 2017 C3: Sean Dempster/Margot Hewer Retirement Drinks The Jam Tree, Chelsea Monday 11 − Thursday 14 December 2017 175 Anniversary: OM Art Exhibition, Sotheby’s, London Monday 18 December 2017 Marlburian Club Carol Service, Chelsea Old Church, London Tuesday 17 April 2018 St Paul’s Evensong, London Thursday 10 May 2018 Marlburian Club Black Tie Dinner, Hampton Court Saturday 19 May 2018 1843 Lunch, Marlborough College Saturday 26 May 2018 175 Anniversary: Commemoration Day, Marlborough College Saturday 9 June 2018 25 Year Reunion: the Class of 1993, TBC
For a full list of events, visit www.marlburianclub.org/ events email the Club office on marlburianclub@ marlboroughcollege.org or phone 01672 892385.
MC Global Connect will be introduced in early 2018 MC Global Connect provides an easy and simple to use networking tool designed for you to connect directly with other OMs and expand professional contacts among the OM Community. Over the last few years The Marlburian Club has worked hard to provide more opportunities for OMs to engage with and use the Club network to further their careers. MC Global Connect allows OMs to communicate directly with each other and will support this work. You can use MC Global Connect just like LinkedIn to make connections with Marlburians in similar fields, post jobs and search for OMs in your area of business. If travelling, you can find out who is in the city, county or area and can send them a message through the portal. It will also provide a platform to expand our base of mentors. When signing up for MC Global Connect you will be asked if you would be interested in sharing your experience of professional life to help other OMs as well as current pupils. The information you give will enable young OMs to contact you directly. We believe that MC Global Connect will be a valuable tool for OMs and widen the reach of the OM Community. ‘Marlborough a Legacy for Life’.
M A R L BUR I A N C LUB
Black Tie Dinner Thursday 10 May 2018 Hampton Court Palace Book now via the Marlburian Club website www.marlburianclub.org/events This event will be exclusively for OMs
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Amici, Romani, Marlburienses Katharine Price (MO 1996-2001) Classics at Wadham College, Oxford
F or proof that Classics has far from had its day but remains popular and useful, look no further than the well over 60 OMs who have studied it in recent years.
thereby keeping my further education as broad as possible. CW I didn’t want to do labs at uni!
hile not for the intellectually faint-hearted, the wider educational dividends the discipline pays can be huge. Below, we hear from five OM Classicists who love, appreciate and recommend Greats and – aside from the opportunity to show off at pub quizzes – share with us what they feel to be the benefits of tackling its complexities.
Did you suffer or enjoy it?
W Bertie Hubbard (C1 2003-08) Mathematics at Durham
Why choose Classics?
Timothy Fosh (C1 1998-2003) Classics at Durham
Willem Marx (C2 1995-2000) Classics at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford
Clare Watson (NC 1997-2002) Classics at Corpus Christi, Oxford 22
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KP I enjoyed the mix of language skills, history and literature, and the insight that you can get from 2,000 years ago on events today. I also liked the logic of the languages themselves and the fact that knowledge of Latin/Greek and the roots of words helps me with modern languages. There is such depth and wealth of material in Classics. BH There were a few stand-out teachers who made the subject particularly interesting. It also combined the structure and logic I enjoyed in maths with poetry and essays. TF I chose Classics due to some genuinely good careers advice I received at school: unless you are absolutely sure you want to pursue a career for which you need a specific degree (e.g. Medicine or Engineering), it is best to do the degree you think you would most enjoy – the rationale being that the more you enjoy a subject, the more you are likely to work. I was also aware that Classics is multi-disciplinary in a way which few, if any, other subjects are. It also didn’t hurt that people tend to think it’s more difficult than some other degrees, which means it’s quite well respected. WM It seemed like it would be more interesting than Maths while giving me scope to study History, Literature and Philosophy at the same time,
KP I genuinely found it fascinating. BH I still refer to some of the texts I studied and enjoyed discussing Classics with friends who also read it at university. TF I really enjoyed it. I think this stemmed from some fantastic teaching I received in the Lower and Upper Sixths at school. While it was not something I was keen to broadcast at the time for fear of outright mockery, the Latin and Greek reading competitions we participated in were great fun and really brought the text alive. WM Enjoyed it, mostly thanks to the excellent teachers at Marlborough and beyond. CW Genuinely loved language work and linguistics. The course at uni was brilliant in exploring IndoEuropean, Linear B and really, really old stuff. Literature grew on me with time, but the breadth Classics offered was fantastic – studying Aristotle’s Physics alongside Ovid’s Heroides… what’s not to love?! The broad spectrum was fascinating and enriching.
Career path? KP I became a solicitor in London and now work in-house for a major manufacturer in the south west of France. BH Initially finance – in the investmentbanking division of Goldman Sachs. I have since set up and now run an online education company, MyTutor, which matches secondary-school pupils with high-calibre university students for one-to-one tuition through an online lesson space. TF Having asserted throughout my university career that I wouldn’t
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become one, after taking a year out to sail across the Atlantic, I am now an associate solicitor with Slaughter & May. WM Graduate school for journalism in New York; I have been a TV and magazine journalist ever since. CW Teaching Classics!
Did studying Classics help or hinder you? KP Any studies are useful if they give you skills that can be applied in later life. I use those I learned through Classics (if not in translating Latin stanzas) all the time. Certainly, the fact that I studied something I enjoyed rather than chose purely for career reasons meant I was very engaged with it. Very useful for crosswords too! The main hindrance is that it’s a pretty niche subject (unlike History or Chemistry) so not everyone knows what Classics is, or what it means. I usually describe it as ‘ancient history and literature, mostly in the original languages, but with a bit of philosophy thrown-in’. BH It’s helped. Among other less direct and recent examples, I taught myself Spanish, picking the language up far faster through the structural understanding I already had in place. TF It helped in that, for a long time, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. Classics offered an opportunity to develop at university a wide range of skills, particularly analytical and critical thinking, which didn’t force me down any particular path. It also helped that a Classics degree is still generally well thought of, while giving me at least two opportunities to feel smug during pub quizzes and, sometimes, while watching University Challenge. WM Helped: it has certainly helped me to read quickly and thoroughly, absorb vast amounts of information for short but intense periods of time, to structure arguments and narratives and approach new foreign languages with some kind of ordered mental framework. Also, I almost automatically read everything with a critical mind. Hindered? Trying to read old Latin inscriptions inside churches sometimes draws some weird looks.
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CW Helped? Yes – see above. That said, there was plenty of teasing from my peers, but acing the cryptic crossword quashes that quickly.
Would you do it all again? KP I am pleased I had the chance to study a subject I really enjoyed, without ‘needing’ to study law in order to become a lawyer. I would make the same choice again. BH Very pleased. I enjoyed studying it and the acquired skills have been valuable. TF I am very pleased that I studied Classics and there’s nothing I would rather have read. WM Happy I studied it, but in hindsight my one year of Arabic – which I was taught by the incoming Marlborough Master – should have encouraged me to study Arabic, which would have been more useful for my overseas reporting over the past 15 years or so. CW Definitely the right choice for me. Although I’ve since completed a Maths degree, teaching Classics is a fabulous career; the variety of skills and intrinsic interest that Classics has to offer is second to none. I’m so excited to see a Classicist taking on the mantle of Master at Marlborough.
And you’d recommend it to today’s Marlburians? KP Yes. BH Yes, the skills are similar to those needed for understanding computer code, but schools are better placed to teach it. It also encourages an understanding of cultural values that pure maths and computing often omit. TF Every day of the week, but only if they enjoyed it. WM Yes, if you love Latin and/or Greek, enjoy spending a lot of time alone in a library, and want to learn how to read and think critically. CW Absolutely! I firmly believe that the breadth of Classics means it has something to offer everyone and it’s such enormous fun – just look at the number of re-modellings of Classical stories that appear every year.
Favourite classical hero? Author? Period? KP Odysseus, he was the clever one! Herodotus, he has such a wonderful way of weaving stories that is a delight to read. Favourite period is the 5th century BC. It was the golden age of Athens, with all the plays, the foundations of modern politics and democracy, the trade routes, and the world opening up to the East and the West. BH Hero: Colin Fraser (CR 19842011). Author: Homer/Virgil. TF My favourite hero has to be Hector as portrayed by Homer in the Iliad – a true tragic hero. In terms of authors, you’d be hard pressed to beat Homer, although a shout out to Hesiod who doesn’t get the praise he deserves for nailing the human condition. Favourite period to study would be Periclean Athens – so much going on! WM Polybius – a wily Greek historian who managed to insinuate himself into the upper echelons of patrician Rome, with a journalist’s eye for detail and a storyteller’s ability to spin a good yarn. CW Odysseus. Ovid. Athens during the Peloponnesian War.
I wish I’d… KP …actually read all of the Iliad in Greek, instead of just winging it with the Penguin translation! BH …continued Latin beyond AS. Assuming this is in reference to my study of Classics. If more general then it would be a much longer list! TF …been less lazy and read more. WM …worked harder during my first three years at university, so that getting a decent degree in my fourth year wasn’t quite such a slog, and I wished I’d done more History and less Philosophy. I think my brain is wired better for the former than the latter. CW …read more literature, especially Greek literature, at uni – with changing exam specifications, I keep encountering authors who are new to me and wonderful, and then wishing that I’d discovered them years ago. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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The B1 Rustics Terry Rogers (CR1964-2014) looks back at Marlburian village cricket. ‘The Club shall be called The B1 Rustics Cricket Club and it shall devote its attention to playing village cricket or cricket not directly organised by the authorities of Marlborough College in order to get to know some of the village teams and to catch from them the spirit of village cricket, quite the purest type of cricket in England.’ n 1977, in my second year as housemaster of B1, some senior boys came to inform me that they proposed to arrange a cricket match to mark the 50th anniversary of the formation of The B1 Rustics. They left me with two old quarto hard exercise books containing the
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Club’s records. These made fascinating reading and confirmed that the first match had been played at Mildenhall on 18 June 1927. There was even a small photo of the assembled teams on the day in raincoats sheltering from the weather. The 1977 anniversary match was duly organised;
and the B1 boys deeming the occasion so important that they made a collection to buy a small cup inscribed to the effect that the village and B1 should meet annually to compete for it. On the day, I went along as scorer and the occasion proved a great success. Nearly 40 years on, I recall three things clearly: a telegraph pole in the outfield that counted as five runs if the ball hit it; the trouble I had as a scorer when I discovered that no less than nine of the home players had the surname Cook; and the difficulty of keeping track of all the beer in The Horseshoe Inn afterwards! The two log books – now safely in the College Archives – document, in some detail, the Club’s fortunes in the period 1927 to 1948. It is made quite clear that, although the B1 Housemaster (originally Edwin Dowdell) was ex-officio Club President, his only role was to settle any disputes; and that all the fixtures and Club administration, both on and off the field, were made by the boys. Permission was obtained at first for the Rustics to play home fixtures on “Mabs” – near Preshute House and newly presented to the College by the Kitcat family – but the initial enthusiasm of the B1 boys to prepare the wicket waned when they discovered just how quickly grass grew, how heavy the roller was that had to be pulled, and how difficult it was to cut the outfield using a scythe. It was not long before home Rustics matches were played on Sloping Broadleaze but, despite this teething problem, the log books show quite clearly that the Rustics flourished, with up to ten fixtures a season being played against teams such as Chiseldon, Pewsey, Aldbourne, Ramsbury, Mildenhall, Savernake and the Swindon
“Nearly 40 years on, I recall three things clearly: a telegraph pole in the outfield that counted as five runs if the ball hit it; the trouble I had as a scorer when I discovered that no less than nine of the home players had the surname Cook; and the difficulty of keeping track of all the beer in The Horseshoe Inn afterwards!” 24
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Camp (i.e. the Swindon Boys’ Club run by the College) and, in August 1929, there was even a short tour in which the Rustics played two matches in Sherborne and one in Lyme Regis. With the onset of the Second World War, of course, the records show that none of the villages could turn out sides and instead the Rustics were playing teams such as The Wiltshire Regiment, R.A.F. Yatesbury, the 60th Rifles, the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, the New Zealand Army Forestry Unit, and an American Army team. “Our initial disappointment in the cricket was well offset by the amusing time we spent learning about baseball and American rugger. When they left, we felt we knew all about American sport, life in New Jersey, Texas and California, and what it was like to be a truck driver in Wisconsin. We were pleased to be told that they had all had a swell time!” Nor did the Rustics limit their energies to cricket for there is even a mention of playing the W.A.A.F.s (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force) at tennis. After 1946, the Rustics fixture list gradually returned to something resembling normality, but, interspersed with the usual villages, new opponents feature such as the Pewsey Mental Colony, Harris’s Pork Pie Company, the College Servants and the girls of St Mary’s Calne
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– the latter quickly becoming a popular fixture, with the Rustics ever keen to cycle the 24-mile round trip! Ah! Those pre-coeducational days! Although the surviving formal records end in 1949, I am confident that the B1 Rustics continued to play throughout the 1950s and 1960s, probably falling victim around 1970 due to the enlargement of school sport, and the growth of external exam-grade pressures. I am aware that B1 was most certainly not the only house to set up a cricket team to play against village sides, and I seem to remember hearing names such as Peasants, Pagans and Peripatetics in use in the College when I joined Common Room in 1964. As far as I know, none of these are formally recorded in the College Archives and it would be helpful if OMs would send information in. Did every house have a village cricket team? What were their names? When did they cease to play? All information will be gratefully received. Although I am long past my sell-by date, I am not a person who undervalues the qualities and attainments of the current pupils, but I suspect that I am not alone in regretting that the pressures and pace of their lives leaves insufficient time for them to have meaningful contact with local people.
B1 Rustics at their first ever fixture in Mildenhall. Original photograph by team member James Mason (B1 1923-28), later a film star famous for many roles including that of suave spy Phillip Vandamm in Hitchcock’s masterpiece North by Northwest
“...the initial enthusiasm of the B1 boys to prepare the wicket waned on the discovering of just how quickly grass grew… and how difficult it was to cut the outfield using a scythe.”
After 50 years at MC, Terry Rogers has been granted remission for good conduct The Marlburian Club Magazine
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The Gift of Human Capital Mayoor Patel’s (PR 1973-77) father said that education was a gift that he would bestow upon him and that it is something Mayoor must pass on to others. As a result, Mayoor has changed the lives of thousands. Anna Horsbrugh-Porter (LI 1981-83) tells us more.
“Sir, we had two textbooks in Uganda, one was called ‘Europe Learns About Africa’, the other one was ‘Africa Learns About Europe.’”
he power of education to transform lives has been the driving force of Mayoor Patel’s (PR 1973-77) life. He arrived in Britain in 1972 at the age of 13, after Idi Amin gave all non-Ugandans 30 days to leave the country. Mayoor’s father, originally from Gujarat, had worked as a civil servant in the Ministry of Education in Kampala for 33 years, but, with Amin’s edict, the family had to leave everything behind. “We left Uganda in fear of being shot; I have never seen so many machine guns as I did at the airport,” says Mayoor. “You had to leave your house, take a suitcase of 20 kilos, and get on a coach. If you were lucky, your coach wasn’t raided, and Kampala to Entebbe (the airport) is 20 miles. At Entebbe, guns were pointing at you the whole time.” The refugees flew to Stansted, and from there were taken to a Royal Air Force camp. “My mother still remembers when we landed; the first thing the staff said to us was: ‘Please don’t worry about anything now, no one’s going to hurt you here.’”
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Mayoor describes one evening just after they arrived in the camp, “It was dark in this country; it gets dark so early, and it’s cold. My father was sitting in the house allocated to us and I said, ‘What’s happened?’ and he said, ‘Nothing, nothing’. And he’s a man who’s just lost everything after 33 years, no pension, having to start again. And I said ‘What is it? Get it off your chest.’ He replied, ‘Well, I’m going to give you something no one can take away from you, and that something I’m going to put between your ears. But one day, when someone needs it, you must give it to them and you mustn’t charge them.’” Education was his father’s obsession, he was tunnel-visioned about it says Mayoor, and not just for his own children’s benefit, but for the good they could do for others as a result. His son took this lesson to heart. I’m talking to Mayoor Patel in the highceilinged, marble-floored cool interior of the Royal Overseas League, tucked away behind the Ritz in Piccadilly. It’s a grand environment, and we sit in armchairs in the lobby at the bottom of the staircase, while guests walk quietly up and down. Mayoor is energetic and full of stories; he’s a compelling mimic, especially when talking in the voices of different masters at Marlborough. He arrived at the school through serendipity while at the RAF camp. He was made to sit tests and was then told he’d got an interview at a then unnamed school. As the family were driven down to the school, Mayoor’s father asked what the fees were and, when he heard the answer, said, “I think you’d better turn the car around because this isn’t for us”. But he was reassured, the car stayed on the M4, and Mayoor met Roger Ellis who quizzed him on his history and asked him how he knew so much. “I said, ‘Sir, we had two textbooks in Uganda, one was called Europe Learns About Africa, the other one was Africa Learns About Europe.’” Mayoor was given a bursary. He was the only Indian boy at the school and remembers being teased about his accent, but was reassured by the English master Andrew Davis who said, “My dear boy, just ignore them, tell them your grammar is far superior to theirs, and I should know this because I taught in Tanzania where they really drum it in.” After Marlborough, Mayoor took a degree in microbiology at Surrey University and then decided against a career in science in favour of joining his chartered-accountant brother in business. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Together, the brothers started a management consultancy, which grew into a property business and hotel portfolio in America. “It was interesting and exciting, because we were doing different things. It was our baby and we cultivated everything, and if we made a mistake we took a hit,” Mayoor says, adding that it is precisely this experience of starting small and scaling up a business that has been crucial in developing his parallel charitable work. In 2002, the three Patel brothers decided to work together funding a home for children with polio in Rajasthan. “So, all three of us went there, we all did our due diligence; I had the financial brief, my brother had the medical brief, and my chartered-account brother had the emotional brief, because he had polio himself.” At the school, they met 400 pupils with polio, or who were polio affected, and agreed to build a girls’ hostel on the site. Mayoor explains that this part of Rajasthan has been stubbornly resistant to girls’ education, and particularly the education of disabled girls. After the hostel was built, 150 girls joined the school and the transformation in their lives and future prospects has been dramatic. One of the girls has become a doctor, many are now nursing and teaching; not only are they financially independent, but they are also able to support their extended families. So much so that, Mayoor says, able-bodied boys are now begging to marry these girls, “It’s a paradigm shift, thousands of years of history turned upside down,” through the simple recognition that girls – whether disabled or not – deserve both an
Binto, who is now a teacher, on her new scooter
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“...this part of Rajasthan has been stubbornly resistant to girls’ education, and particularly the education of disabled girls”
education and the practical means to access it. The Patel charitable organisations have mushroomed since starting Polio Children. Mayoor now supports his old school in Uganda, as well as an arts charity in the UK, and another international charity for deaf children. His new venture is currently being trialled in India and is a grass-roots movement with young professionals identifying disadvantaged individuals they know personally, and who, with a little extra help, can achieve a lot. Mayoor passes me his phone that show photos of a girl, her nursing certificate, and another government certificate proving her parents are below the poverty line. Her ‘ambassador’ has sent this to Mayoor. If she passes the threshold, this girl will have all her college fees paid direct and have enough money to be able to support her studies. Mayoor calls this localised support a ‘supply-chain’ and that he wants to give the young professionals ownership. “These ambassadors know best, they’ve grown up there, so if they say it’s X amount for books and things, that’s what they get. Some of these kids are doing so well, for the sake of a few hundred rupees it makes all the difference.”
Mayoor Patel’s ultimate aim is to free up his time to be able to form effective collaborations with other charities. “A lot of people are doing good work, but they’re so stuck in that circle of doing everything independently.” He has been recognised for his work; a Points of Light award from former Prime Minister David Cameron and a British Citizens award for International Achievement. But Mayoor is wary of calling himself a philanthropist, when I ask him if he describes himself as one he responds, with characteristic compassion and humility, “I look at the word and think it’s so subjective, because there are some incredibly philanthropic people without financial capital but with human capital, and they’re so philanthropic, it would put billionaires to shame.” It seems to me that this ability to see humanity in the round, and the conviction that all of us can make a positive impact has been the hallmark of Mayoor’s life. From the little boy who left Africa and turned up at Marlborough, open to new experiences yet sure of his own identity, to the man who has transformed thousands of lives across the world – his father’s passion for education and helping others has stood him in good stead. Anna HorsbrughPorter has been a journalist with the BBC World Service for over 20 years
Lonnie Mayne (CEO Red Shoes Living), Mayoor, and The Rt Hon The Lord Dholakia DL, OBE at the BCA awards at Westminster Palace
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Rare Beauties or White Elephants? Susanna Spicer (SU 1979-81) dips her toe in the waters of the superyacht by interviewing Mark Whiteley (SU 1977-82) and Mike Reeves (C1 1989-94)
t’s not often I find myself in a premises where the product most clients end up buying will cost them eight, or very possibly nine, figures. The world of superyachts (one word, apparently), and those who make and buy them, is one with which – as a mere wandering minstrel – I am 100% unfamiliar. With bespoke boats costing anything from £20 to £150 million each, those involved in their specific design inevitably number relatively few and yet here I am in Lymington meeting two of the bestrespected protagonists in the field, both OMs.
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Mark Whiteley (SU 1977-82) I remember as a gentle, fair-haired, slightly ethereal fellow in the year below me, who walked
Summerfield’s corridors with a ready smile. It was good to find him still smiling some 40 years on. We both sailed larks at Ashton Keynes with Christopher Rogers (CR 1974-90) and I wondered if mucking about with boats had always been in his sights, but no; in those days Mark was a potter and sculptor, inspired by Tim Saville (CR 1975-82), who steered him into Industrial Design, first at the Central School of Art & Design and then the Royal College of Art. Mike Reeves (C1 1989-94), in whose stylish Claydon Reeves premises we are meeting, was by contrast an Art Exhibitioner, printmaker and Mem Hall set designer during Robin Child’s (CR 1971-92) last three years running the
Art Department. His first degree was in Architecture before he was lured sideways into mechanical engineering, which took him to the USA to work in car design for several years. However, designing wing mirrors for the rest of his life was not going to satisfy his need for creative variety; he switched to boats for the wider range of challenges they proffered. “The complete process of yacht design is what appealed to me,” Mike remarks, with which Mark concurs. “In designing a superyacht, you have the potential to design everything from a hull to a door handle to a logo – the lot. There is also still the opportunity to sketch, with a pencil, in front of the client – in fact, it’s essential.” The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Top: Mark Whiteley (SU 1977-82) and below, Mike Reeves (C1 1989-94)
“...our first interior was a royal yacht we weren’t allowed to discuss, which was hard, though our second won a World Superyacht Award, which changed everything.”
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“Absolutely. Any teenager can produce a CGI, but what really captivates a client is when you can respond to their ideas right then and there. This is a people business from start to finish, and the alchemy of applying a pencil to a blank piece of paper and producing their dream in front of their eyes never fails to appeal,” adds Mike. Their clients are, of course, not merely super, but hyper rich. Not always well known, but almost invariably decisive and detail orientated. “However, it’s always good to be a bit cheeky,” the Ms agree. “You have to charm your way into the commission. It’s about personality; if you realise you won’t get on, it’s best to walk away. Their worlds can be extraordinarily complex. To a certain extent you become involved in their business and personal lives, which can be exhausting to behold. But they are still people.” Clients will have come via the grapevine – a broker, project manager or fellow boat owner – and while each commission is bespoke, designers nevertheless have their own trademarks and house style. Claydon Reeves like to use the fewest number of lines they can and Mike also uses concave surfaces to reflect light, “a bit like a wheel arch flair on a car,” he admits, revealing his roots.
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Pre-pitch preparation can involve a team of four or five and take months, starting what may be a two- to four-year journey from commission to launch. This is not a quick business. Using a recent 110m Claydon Reeves design as an example, the two talk me through the process. Six months to a year of painstaking, intensive development of ideas and provisional drawings, requiring endless negotiation with the client and/or their broker, captain and project manager, kicks things off. It’s not just a question of the number of decks, distribution and dimension of passenger accommodation and its design, required additional features (swimming pools, cinemas, saunas) and quota of tenders, but the servicing of it all, too. A crew of 40-50 will need to invisibly access all levels and facilities and be accommodated in cabins themselves (the minimum size of which is now strictly regulated, I’m glad to hear); engine rooms, ducting, fire bulkheads – everything, but everything has to be designed and specified down to the location of every power point and light switch. Once the client is happy, a further year’s negotiation begins with his/her chosen shipyard over the practicalities of construction. The ‘GA’ (general
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arrangement), comparable to architects’ drawings for buildings, is gradually constructed with the help of naval architects, and detailed plans produced for final approval. Maybe two to two-andhalf years into the process, work can then begin on the boat’s actual construction. The hull comes first, almost invariably made of steel or composite covered with a superstructure of aluminium and then faired. “It’s magical,” says Mike. “The initial construction can look quite rough, like patchwork, approximating the finished boat. Then the thing is covered, every bit of it, with fairing compound, and suddenly you see the perfect lines of the finished product start to appear. It’s an extraordinary moment, but that too takes up to a year.” Are they built in the UK? “Not often. Hulls are built in a variety of locations: Germany, Holland, Turkey, Italy, Poland and even China to name but a few. The UK sports some amazing yards that often do the finishing.” Then the decoration and construction of the interior is begun, in which Mark specialises. “I founded Redman Whiteley Dixon and was with them for 20 years; however, we grew very big and I wanted to get back to designing again, so I started another bespoke company.”
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“Mark doesn’t need to advertise,” Mike points out. “He’s so well known in the business that people know how to find him. He’s very busy and doesn’t even have a website…” Mike is clearly an admirer. “I’ve just been around a while,” Mark adds, modestly. His current projects involve designing the exterior and interior of an 81m modern schooner in Holland and a lovely New England classic interior for a 56m ketch. These, Mike assures me in awed tones, are HUGE projects.
gallery in June 2017 featuring the ‘Powered by Rolls-Royce’ nameplate; composite would have been lighter, but aluminium is more in keeping with the project. Unusual features lift the standard and she should be able to reach 45 knots effortlessly. This project will set a new benchmark for design and manufacturing at this scale. We have listened to our clients and believe we have produced the ‘ultimate dayboat for the twenty-first century’!”
“Sometimes we will build a mock-up of an entire interior, down to the stitching on the cushions and carving on the door handles, to give the client confidence.” Mark tells me. What if a client changes their mind mid-stream? “If it’s about something big, like the headroom measurements, then it can be extraordinarily expensive. That’s why we do our best to make sure they know what they are asking for as we go along. We also go through lots of contractual hoops to ensure we are covered. But things happen. In one case, a fellow ended up buying a shipyard that had gone bankrupt to make sure his boat got finished.” Lumme… this is life on a different scale indeed.
Mike adds that a new showroom and studio in Kensington will handle the sales and final specification of these unique vessels on an appointment-only basis. “As usual, we will be at the 2018 Monaco Yacht Show, but if anybody wants to know more they will have to come direct to Claydon Reeves!”
So where do they hope to go from here? Claydon Reeves, a mere seven years in, has learned from experience that you need to play a little harder to get than they did at the start. “We pumped out designs for several years to get recognised and break into the market, but then realised that others were adopting them and that we should perhaps be a bit more circumspect. Also, our first interior was a royal yacht we weren’t allowed to discuss, which was hard, though our second won a World Superyacht Award, which changed everything. A new 36m interior and exterior design will be launched in early July 2017 from a leading Dutch shipyard with further projects in development elsewhere. Recently, we’ve also nurtured a close relationship with Rolls-Royce Plc. Initially, we wanted to use the classic Merlin V-12 engine to power a boat – as they did in wartime – but, although intrigued, clients simply weren’t buying, so after lengthy negotiations, Rolls-Royce offered us a complete package of their products from engines to gearboxes and waterjets, with all the necessary software to make it work seamlessly, which is very exciting. We launched our 65ft, aluminium Aeroboat S6 at the Saatchi
Mark, meanwhile, is fighting off commissions for both power- and sailboat interiors, while shipyards are apparently equally busy. I’m sceptical though. Are they ultimately building wasteful white elephants that will rarely leave harbour? “On the whole, no. I’ve designed boats that have circumnavigated the world with their owners’ families being home-schooled aboard. Smaller yachts may be used less often, but the big boats we build are often used regularly, and in between may well be open to charter,” reassures Mark. And do they feel uncomfortable dealing with such off-thescale levels of luxury? “The amount of craftsmanship supported by this business is extraordinary. Much of what decorates the interior of these boats is handmade by artisans whose skills would be lost if they weren’t employed in this way. Literally hundreds of people will be employed over four or five years to produce just one of these superyachts. They are floating architecture and, if we do it right, things of incredible beauty,” about which both Mark and Mike are clearly passionate. It’s another world for sure and a very, very long way from MC’s 13ft larks and my father’s 11ft gull. I’m beguiled, but still can’t quite get my head round those price tags, try as I might.
Susanna Spicer, Editor Emerita of this magazine, professional singer and wannabe property magnate The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Wilkinson’s Men: Pioneers of Marlborough College Part two of our three-part series on Marlborough’s first Master, Matthew Wilkinson, looks at the men that helped form the founding years of the College’s history. arlborough College’s success in growing from barely 200 boys, on its opening in 1843, to over 500, by 1848, was remarkable. However, it struggled to cope with its increasing size; and so, the 1851 Rebellion will always be linked with the first Master, Matthew Wilkinson.
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College Court c.1867
Common Room 1899
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The College was to recover from the crisis following the Rebellion, but it was to be a long and rough ride. In 1853, Lord Bruce’s plan for Marlborough Grammar School to merge with the College was defeated as the town turned its back on “that bankrupt institution in the Bath Road” . George Cotton – Wilkinson’s successor and Thomas Arnold’s disciple from Rugby School – rose to the challenge and succeeded in placing the College on a secure footing before becoming Bishop of Calcutta in 1858. A man capable of turning around Marlborough College would have little difficulty in helping to lead post-mutiny India. The men on the ground determined success or failure. Fifteen of Wilkinson’s assistant masters continued at the College after he left in 1852 for a country vicar’s
life at West Lavington. Frederick Bond, who joined the College in 1846, left to take up the headmastership of Marlborough Grammar School in 1853. Bond married Wilkinson’s niece, Mary Delafosse. John Brackenbury, one of the first assistant masters, who had been Wilkinson’s deputy at Huddersfield School, married Mary Shield, Wilkinson’s sister-in-law. Brackenbury left the College in 1849 to run a successful military school in Wimbledon. There were initially five assistant masters to Matthew Wilkinson – all in their twenties: the eldest, Thomas Cornish, was 27; and the youngest Edward Pitman, just 21. With the exception of Pitman, who was still to take holy orders, they were all Church of England clergy. Cornish left in 1849 to become headmaster of King Edward’s School in Macclesfield. It is testament to Wilkinson that he invited him back to the College, as an examiner, two years later. Cornish noted the progress his pupils had made during the two years he had been away but commenting, with evident affection, on, “the cheerful school-room, the playground, and the bright faces of the boys.” Wilkinson’s second in command, William Sharpe, was to remain at the College for eight-and-a-half years. Sharpe was made a fellow of St John’s, his Cambridge College, in 1844.
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Common Room 1867
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entrusted to the young teaching staff were enormous, although mitigated by extramasters and Wilkinson’s own sixth form teaching. By the standards of the time, classes were not large. Thomas remembered, “As a general rule, a master had two divisions, one of which was preparing work whilst the other was in form. The divisions were small of course, with not more, I think, than 15 to 17 boys in each. Those that failed with their work were punished by impositions, detention, or caning, every master being provided with a cane, which he kept within his locked desk.”
He returned there as Junior Dean after leaving Marlborough College soon after the Rebellion in December 1851. Six months later, Sharpe returned to Marlborough to serve as examiner, as Cornish had done the previous year. On Prize Day, Sharpe eulogised Wilkinson by paying him a public “parting tribute”, and proclaiming he had thoroughly enjoyed his time at the College, “amidst difficulties it may be”. Edward Lockwood, only eight years old when he entered amongst the first cohort in 1843, recalled “distrust and enmity” between boys and masters. John Thomas, who entered the College in 1848 and was to return as a beak under George Bradley in 1859 and later bursar, regarded “our masters and everybody else that represented authority, as our natural enemies.” Henry Wood gave a more favourable picture. Having first spent two years at the grammar school where “boys were sufficiently fed, but caned severely” before moving to the College in 1849 where “food was scanty”. Despite this, Wood preferred the College, “from the greater liberty we enjoyed”. Extra-masters, who lived outside the College, taught supplementary subjects to the mainstream – Classics, Theology and Mathematics. Mr Fleuss taught drawing and German; and Mr Luce, French. Luce was blamed for unsatisfactory performance of his boys. Wilkinson attributed the problem to inexperience of teaching large classes, “had Mr Luce been more disposed to act as a master must, who is to teach unwilling as well as willing learners, I think he would have done better.” The Master had perhaps highlighted a wider difficulty in engaging and motivating all the boys. Lockwood recalled a lack of attention to his limited knowledge of Latin. In fairness, the tasks
William Sellick was appointed extra master in 1849 to teach writing
William Sellick, from Tiverton, Devon, joined the College in 1849 as a writing master. He had a passion for copy-plate handwriting and for a time ran his own private school in London Road. He was a formidable man. His portly figure, rich Devonshire accent, and round, bespectacled, beaming face, were remembered by many, as were his stern rebukes. He was regarded as one not to be messed with. “Prefects might be defied; masters, even the strongest and most revered, might at times be disobeyed. We have never heard, however, of anyone venturing to pit himself against Mr Sellick – not twice at any rate!” Despite his fearsome reputation, copybooks from his cupboard were amongst some of the items taken out and burnt by reckless boys during the Rebellion. The porter, known as the Gate Sergeant, was an essential man in policing the boys by his surveillance and reporting of misdemeanours to the Master, in addition to his obvious role in supervising access and egress. “The gate serjeant may be any confident honest fellow that can write and is respectable in his habits and
appearance,” formed Wilkinson’s requirements. Gate Sergeant Thompson was paid a salary of £45, a respectable sum when private soldiers were being paid 7 shillings a week. In 1848, Thomas Pevier, from London, took the job. He zealously reported instances of bad language and the breaking of rules. One night he observed a group of boys on the roof of C House: they were all subsequently caned. The unpopular Pevier was to be the target for attack in November 1851 when his lodge was stoned at night by boy ‘mutineers’. Despite this, Pevier stayed at the College until 1854 when he moved back to London to run a greengrocer’s shop. Pevier’s grandson, a piano tuner, later said that his grandfather had been very happy at Marlborough and only left because his cockney wife missed London. In an age when epidemics and diseases were common, a medical man was essential. Dr John Gardner had served at the Battle of Waterloo as an assistant surgeon and was well used to treating wounded soldiers. He avidly took on the job of College doctor, famously beginning any consultation with the question, “And what’s the matter with you dear boy?” Sadly, Dr Gardner could not prevent the deaths of four boys in May and June 1848 from an outbreak of scarlatina: they were aged between 10 and 16. Wilkinson reacted by ending the year early. In 1849, Walter Fergus MD, an Edinburgh-trained member of the Royal College of Surgeons, succeeded Gardner as medical officer. He served for 37 years and saw the building of the College outhouses along Bath Road, a measure partly taken to allow the use of space to help prevent further epidemics. There are no photographs of the College during Wilkinson’s reign. But a later 1861 group photograph shows two of ‘Wilkinson’s Men’: John Sowerby, a popular master and Alpine botanist, who put out a fire on a wooden wing of the five courts during the Rebellion; and Charles Tayler, who, like Matthew Wilkinson, later retired to pursue the life of a Wiltshire country clergyman. Nick Baxter has an MA in Public History from Warwick University with a unique interest in the mid-19th century The Marlburian Club Magazine
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THE
MARLBURIAN BURSARIES COLLECTION 2017–2018 All profits from the Collection will go towards bursaries For a catalogue please telephone Crosby & Lawrence: 01672 892 498
Visit our online shop at: shop.marlboroughcollege.org
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Harry Fox: Back to the Front Years after Harry Fox (CO 1911-16) died, his son, Richard (LI 1951-56), discovered letters, memorabilia and memoirs of Harry’s time on the Western Front. College Archivist, Gráinne Lenehan, gives us an insight into this considerate, thoughtful and loyal gentleman. t 4.45 a.m. I was awakened by the unmistakable noise which invariably precedes a battle. There could be no doubt about it this time – things were moving. I could hear the gas shell bursting all round, mingled occasionally with HE [high explosive] and shrapnel... I then dressed completely and quite deliberately... I did not go as far as adjusting tie and collar, but put on a woollen scarf which, incidentally, I wore for about seven days!”
“A
This quote is from an undated letter that was sent home in a pocket of a damaged tunic to avoid the censor. Nineteen-yearold Harry Fox (CO 1911-16) has just woken up to the sound of the commencement of the German Spring Offensive launched from the Hindenburg Line on 21 March 1918 along a 40-mile stretch in the vicinity of St Quentin. What follows is said to be the largest barrage of the First World War during which three and a half million shells were fired in five hours over an area of 150 square miles. The Allies were forced into a fighting retreat for weeks to follow and although the Germans advanced up to 40 miles in places their success was of little military value because of a failure to achieve their objective of capturing Amiens and Arras. Enormous casualties and supply problems forced Ludendorff to terminate this phase of the offensive. This point marked the beginning of the end of the war for Germany. Harry Fox had left Marlborough in December 1916 and, by April 1917, had been gazetted Second Lieutenant in the Royal Field Artillery. He was posted to the 21st Divisional Artillery on the Somme in July. During his time in France, he took part in the 3rd Battle of Ypres – Passchendaele –
Top: Harry Fox, 1915. Gym VIII. Above: Marlborough College Officer Training Corps, 1916. Harry is furthermost to the right on the back row. Top right: The Cleve, Wellington, Somerset, where Harry Fox grew up. Below right: Harry’s suitcase containing his letters and memoirs as well as maps, medals, newspaper cuttings and other memorabilia related to his wartime experiences. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Left to right: Harry’s notebook containing, amongst other things, notes on army discipline, range tables, and a kit list. Map of the Future of Europe as it will be shaped by the German-Austrian Armies. Officers of D Battery, 95th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, Nesle L’Hôpital, June 1918 (Harry is seated on the right).
“What worried me a lot was not being able to send word home, but I hope they will have received my post cards and letters by now. I had some unpleasant shaves, but a miss is as good as a mile. Gas... had no bad effects at all – except that my Burberry was partially bleached!!”
“He is close to his family and the warmth of his relationship with them emanates from every letter...”
It is apparent from his letters that he takes pride in, and is loyal to, his battery. At the same time, we are frequently reminded of his youth and observe that he enjoys life and the company of others. He is an exuberant sportsman; and he takes the time to notice the countryside around him and to describe it. In spite of discomfort and peril, he maintains a sense of humour and seems, somehow, to be resilient. It is difficult not to warm to him whilst reading the letters.
where he received a shrapnel wound in the arm in October 1917; in the hardfought retreat from Operation Michael during the Spring Offensive 1918; in the 3rd Battle of the Aisne and subsequent retreat from the Marne during May and June 1918; and in the 100 Days Offensive of August to November 1918, which forced the Germans to retreat beyond the Hindenburg Line and, ultimately, to surrender. Harry wrote about his experiences of war in his memoirs and letters. The letters, mostly written to his family, begin on 26 March 1917 while training in England and continue to early 1919 when he is still in France waiting to be demobilised. In them we find a well-balanced young man who takes his responsibilities seriously and demonstrates a great deal of courage in coping with experiences that must have tested him severely. He is close to his family and the warmth of his relationship with them emanates from every letter – correspondence from them is very important for his morale. He is considerate of them and always at pains to underplay any danger he is exposed to; in a letter to his aunts of 2 April 1918 he writes, 36
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The memoirs, written in 1920, give an account of his experiences; unlike the letters, which were subject to censorship, here he is free to give details of places, battles, retreats and advances. Accounts of the Great War from the point of view of an artilleryman are relatively uncommon; Harry Fox gives clear, concise descriptions of his battery’s preparations for battle: digging lines of resistance, wiring, preparing positions, building up ammunition, learning defence schemes and planning barrages. Here he describes the beginning of one of the final attacks by VI Corps on the German line that commenced on 27 September 1918. “At 5.15 there was a lull – an expectant silence... and then ‘3 minutes to go’... ‘1 minute’. Every officer examining his watch... 20 – 10 – 5 – shrill blasts from a multitude of whistles drowned out almost instantaneously by a thunder of reports, which grew within five seconds to a roar – the most perfectly timed barrage I had ever heard...”
At intervals, the battery is sent out for rest or training. He describes a course he is sent on in August 1918 at Le Touquet as “one of the best holidays of my life” and thus we can see how important such breaks from the Front are for morale. The training is described with much humour, and youthful high-jinx hint at his resilience. A wry account is included of a visit from the King, “his remark on the 4.5inch how.[itzer] gun drill was ‘very good indeed’ – hence the honour of D/95 was upheld”. Years after Harry Fox died in 1983, his son, Richard Fox (LI 1951-56), discovered in the attic of the family home a small leather suitcase containing all the letters, the memoirs, and related items of memorabilia. It was an extraordinary discovery as, although father and son had a close relationship, Harry had never discussed his wartime experiences and Richard was to discover for the first time these exceptional formative experiences of his father’s life.
Gráinne Lenehan is the College’s Archivist Richard very kindly donated this collection to the Marlborough College Archive. The Archive has been able to publish the War Memoirs and Letters of Harry Fox, 1917-1919 on the College website; to find them click on ‘WW1’ located on the home page and select the ‘Memoirs’ option.
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Positive Give Back with Princess Leia Imagine Sir Richard Branson dressed in a white dress cinched at the waist with a silver belt. In place of his blond locks is a brown wig, styled into two buns. Best of all, he is delivering a speech through a 20-metre hologram.
back ethos was actively encouraged by Richard and his team and it was fascinating to learn about the many ways his donation platform Virgin Unite supports other giving businesses across the world. In particular, like us, they encourage the integration of giving into every aspect of the business. We have a similar methodology. Our dining experiences have provided both food and full support to orphans in Asia, our drinks experiences provided 180,000 days of clean water to families in Ethiopia, our ‘can you see music’ project gave 50 hearing impaired children learning tools, and our holographic DJ, 260 days of special life education to disadvantaged girls to prevent them from being trafficked. The island is a perfect inspiration for creating positive impacts. It was where the famous Elders, the independent global leaders’ forum who work together for peace and human rights, was formed. It plays host to a number of events that encourage social change, and supports and mentors inspired individuals and companies, local to the British Virgin Islands and far beyond, who are all championing that change. Surrounded by hundreds of rare flamingos, iguanas and lemurs that are being saved from extinction, it’s clear to see that any positive impact is possible if you put your mind to it.
t sounds futuristic, doesn’t it? Yet, this scene was not that hard to imagine for Richard and his guests during an Entrepreneurs’ Paradise (EP) event on Necker Island. Entrepreneurs’ Paradise is a company with which you are invited by Richard to host exclusive networking events for entrepreneurs and business owners, and to forge powerful network and business relationships in a relaxed, natural environment.
I
With the use of some of the latest portable technologies, I was able to recreate the famous Star Wars hologram scene, lending an element of futurism to the entertainment. My agency, Rebel and Soul, specialises in applying neuroscience and technology to the experience design process. By introducing something new and unexpected or ‘Rebel’, our brain’s long-term memories have a significantly
Find out more at www.rebelandsoul.com, www.facebook.com/ rebelandsoul, and @rebelandsoulofficial. With every connection, Rebel & Soul donates a day’s clean water for families in Ethiopia. This life-saving initiative reduces the child mortality rate and allows girls to receive an education, instead of spending their time collecting water. Presenting at Necker
higher activation rate, resulting in a lasting impression for all of our event participants. The Soul part of the business focuses on giving back for every experience we create for a brand. We donate a life-changing experience for those in need. Our give
Kristy Castleton (CO 1994-96) is the founder of Rebel and Soul and a huge Princess Leia fan The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Lords of the Rings The OM Rifle Club has produced some incredible shots over the years. Several OMs were members of the last World Championships GB squad, another is the reigning World Individual Champion, and there’s an OM who was a member of the 1980 GB Olympic team. With the OMRC’s history dating back to 1874, ex-Captain of the England team Tony de Launay (PR 1960-64) tells us more. his year marks the 90th anniversary of the Old Marlburian Rifle Club (OMRC). The Club’s history was recorded in a limited edition paperback form in 1997 and it notes that: “Real organisation crept onto the OM firing point in 1927”. That formal existence was thanks to two OMs, Major Tom Vezey (B3 1914-19) and Lieutenant Colonel Robin ‘Johnny’ Johnson (B2 1919-23). The Club has thrived ever since.
T
Pen drawing of Lt Col REW “Johnny” Johnson (B2 1919-1923) 38
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However, 1927 was not really the first year. The OMs entered the National Rifle Association’s (NRA) Challenge Shield match on Wimbledon Common, for teams of past pupils, in 1874, the year the
College first won the Ashburton Shield. Since then, one or more teams have entered the Veterans’ Match every year – hostilities excepted. From 1890 onwards, the NRA moved to Bisley as suburbia encroached on Wimbledon. The OMs have won the Veterans’ Challenge Shield for first teams on ten occasions: the Dulwich Cup for second teams nine times; the Whitgift Cup for third teams 12 times; and the Pixley Bowl for the combined-team aggregate nine times. The Veterans’ Match is a grand day out for the past pupils of shooting schools, and, for the OMs, the opportunity to enjoy their annual dinner with friends and guests.
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Twenty-eight OMs have been capped by the home nations; eight have represented Great Britain in the Kolapore Match (team of eight at home to official teams from visiting nations); 18 have toured as members of Great Britain teams overseas, five of whom have been members of GB’s World Championship Palma Match team; and one OM has shot for Australia and another for India. In total, between them they have over 420 national and international team badges. The list could go on to include the UK cadets and GB veterans (over 60), and those who have acted in many posts for Bisley Clubs and the NRA – but too many statistics lead to numerical indigestion. Some, though, occupy special places in the Club’s history. Brigadier Charles Calvey Foss (C3 1899-1902) was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1915. The 2016 magazine set out his story: a cup in his name is contested concurrent with the Bisley Grand Aggregate. Major Robert FF Davies (C2 1891-95), the first OM to win the Sovereign’s Prize in 1906, served in South Africa transferring to the Territorial Reserve in 1908. In the First World War, he re-joined the London Regiment but lost his life in 1916 at
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“The Club’s history was recorded in limited edition paperback form in 1997 and it notes that: Real organisation crept onto the OM firing point in 1927.”
Leuze Wood, two months after being sent to the front line and just before his 40th birthday. Colonel Robert Jeb Few (C1 1890-94) served with the Imperial Yeomanry in the South African War and then at Gallipoli and in France, being awarded the DSO in 1917. Much later, he was instrumental in building the Territorial Army ‘Derby Hut’ Headquarters at Bisley alongside the railway line that passed through the camp, nicknamed Few Junction. He was the first President of OMRC and later its first Patron. His silver cigarette case is awarded each year to the top OM scorer in the annual match against the College. The 1950s and 1960s had their own figures. Major Tommy Davison (C2 1931-35) shot for Ireland and was a leading judge of Connemara horseflesh.
He possessed a delightful soft, but levelling, sense of humour. During a practice session, a pupil landed a shot at the extremity of the target. “I really don’t think I can help you much with that one,” he said. Colonel Clive Walker (C1 193236) and Major Gerald Carey (B2 1931-34) were others of that time. Both would volunteer for any duty, disappearing to the marker pit so that others could enjoy their shooting. Walker presented a bronze statuette as an award to the top scorer in the aggregate of long-range competitions at the Bisley meeting. Lieutenant Colonel David Horton Smith (C1 1923-27), Scotland and Great Britain, could manage a ferocious growl to bring youth to its senses. Inevitably, the growl was followed by a resonating chortle. On Veterans’ Day, he always obtained an early indication of the results to accompany the port at dinner – his wife, Margaret, ran the competition squadding and had an inside track to final scores. Life was never a dull moment with Major Tom Debenham (PR 1923-27). A latecomer to target shooting, he gained GB badges in 1958 and 1960. He served with distinction in the Royal Artillery in the Second World War, and he also raced The Marlburian Club Magazine
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“...Lieutenant Colonel David Horton Smith (C1 1923-27), Scotland and Great Britain, could manage a ferocious growl to bring youth to its senses.” cars and motorcycles on the formidable Brooklands circuit at Weybridge. When his normal passengers declined his entreaties to act as side-car ballast, his long-suffering wife, Jackie, would be pressed into service. He helped with College VIII’s training in the 1960s and 1970s. Later, he turned to his other love, sailing, as an officer on the Sail Training Association’s ships Malcolm Millar and Sir Winston Churchill. One of the most memorable characters of the 1970s and 1980s was Lieutenant Colonel REW ‘Johnny’ Johnson, OBE TD (B2 1919-23). An accountant, he served in small-arms capacities at home
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and overseas during the Second World War and, in his retirement, became Honorary Shooting Master at the College from 1971 to 1988. He helped many Marlburians to achieve success both at the College and after they had left. ‘Thin’ Johnny – to distinguish him from other Bisley Johnsons of different girth – toured with the GB Team to South Africa, Australia and New Zealand during a five-and-a-half-month trip spanning late 1937 and early 1938. In more recent years, Geoff Robinson (CO 1961-65) participated in the troubled 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow in the Free Pistol category. In 1984 David Richards (B3 1972-76), in 2004 Henry Jeens (BH 1995-2000) and in 2014 Richard Jeens (BH 1994-99) each won HM The Queen’s Prize at Bisley. Ed Jeens (BH 1998-2003) came second in 2013. Richard was also World Long Range Champion in 2011. There has to be a pub quiz question about the Jeens here somewhere.
David Horton-Smith, Johnny Johnson and David Richards have all captained GB touring teams; and Tony de Launay (PR 1960-64) and Charles Brooks (PR 1969-74) have each captained England teams. Charles is Secretary General of the International Confederation of Fullbore Rifle Associations, the world target-shooting governing body. Bill Richards (C1 1977-79), David’s younger brother, is regarded as one of the finest exponents of wind coaching, the essential skill of reading the wind to keep the firer in the bull’s eye. He is a seemingly permanent member of Britain’s World Championships team. On these and many others, OMRC has built its record. From bulling boots and gaiters in the CCF, OMs have had the pleasure of pursuing target shooting well into their seventies and beyond. This past July, we again raised our glasses to all those who have helped over the formal 90 years of our existence – or the 143 years from 1874, if you prefer. The scribe, Tony de Launay, is fully retired from a working life spent in Industrial Relations, but can still be found on the firing point in clement weather
Left: Brothers Bill and David Richards. Right: Richard Jeens prior to winning HM The Queen’s Prize in 2014. Below: GB Rifle Team 2017 and Australia match team. Bill Richards is seated on the left of the picture and Richards Jeens is the tallest person standing to the left of the scoreboard.
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ROLL OF HONOUR 1917 MARLBURIANS WHO GAVE T HEIR LIVES IN 1917 AS A RESULT OF T HE GRE AT WAR L PA R K E R H F B R I G S TO K E C P EVER ARD C H P M AU R I C E W DEH ROBINSON L C A LV E RT G H AT K I N S O N B M O RTO N E D SPICER W J S THOMAS R S B P O RT E R A E THRING A J NORRIS F W N I S B ET N WEST M J C O L L I S –S A N D E S A W JONES H W B LU M F E L D E V BAY L EY R W DURNO A V B O U LTO N A J H B OW E N B A CUNNINGHAME B H A F E L L OWE S A S WELDON W G T C L I F TO N P W VIGORS J E D AY A P M A R R I OT T B EVA N S L N ROGER S G B S AU N D E R W A V E R S C H OY L E A WO O D G E C COLLINSON K A B R OWN N A OUTERBRIDGE I R R BROGDEN P A M AY G G C C H I L C OT T C J A BUCK ELL C C B GORDON A L HOLLAND A P NA S M I T H A B N E AT E G D L NICHOLSON U H E S OW T E R G F B DANIELL H J G O O DWI N W R HANCOCK H C PAT T E R S O N J L BULMER A R N E AT E P C REID D H M E AU T Y S
( B 1 1899–1904) (C 3 1902–1907) (B3 1904–1908) (C 1 1903–1905) (B1 1902–1906) (B2 1900–1904) (C2 1904–1909) (C 1 1889–1894) (C 3 1908–1909) (C2 1907–1910) (CO 1904–1906) ( B 1 1906–1908) (C 3 1865–1870) (B1 1911–1914) (B1 1908–1910) (LI 1900–1904) (C 1 1882–1885) (PR 1910–1913) (C 2 1899–1902) (B2 1912–1915) (SU 1913–1915) (C2 1899–1903) ( B 2 1883–1888) (B2 1911–1915) (CO 1889–1893) ( P R 1907–1911) (C 3 1889–1902) (C 3 1 9 0 9 – 1 9 1 2 ) (C 3 1 9 0 8 – 1 9 1 1 ) ( P R 1901–1906) (B2 1891–1896) ( B 2 1903–1908) (B2 1904–1908) (LI 1893–1896) (C 2 1910–1914) (PR 1901–1904) (LI 1897–1902) (C O 1906–1910) (B2 1912–1915) (B1 1911–1915) (C2 1904–1909) (B1 1907–1909) ( B 1 1911–1916) (C 2 1894–1899) ( B 2 1895–1900) ( B 3 1911–1914) (C3 1902–1906) (CO 1892–1897) ( C O 1900–1903) ( B 2 1911–1914) ( L I 1910–1914) (B3 1907–1913) ( L I 1910–1913) ( B 3 1896–1899) (C O 1912–1914)
07/01/1917 09/01/1917 11/01/1917 24/01/1917 27/01/1917 30/01/1917 01/02/1917 01/02/1917 01/02/1917 01/02/1917 06/02/1917 09/02/1917 10/02/1917 14/02/1917 16/02/1917 17/02/1917 22/02/1917 23/02/1917 24/02/1917 24/02/1917 25/02/1917 02/03/1917 16/03/1917 22/03/1917 25/03/1917 31/03/1917 02/04/1917 06/04/1917 07/04/1917 08/04/1917 11/04/1917 11/04/1917 11/04/1917 12/04/1917 13/04/1917 14/04/1917 14/04/1917 15/04/1917 15/04/1917 18/04/1917 19/04/1917 20/04/1917 21/04/1917 23/04/1917 23/04/1917 23/04/1917 23/04/1917 24/04/1917 24/04/1917 26/04/1917 30/04/1917 03/05/1917 03/05/1917 06/05/1917 07/05/1917
FRANCE FRANCE IR AQ FRANCE FRANCE SOMME IR AQ EGYPT FRANCE SOMME SOMME ENGLAND ENGLAND FLANDER S SOMME SOMME ENGLAND IR AQ FRANCE YPRES SOMME FRANCE AFRICA ARRAS IR AQ FRANCE ENGLAND YPRES ARRAS FRANCE ARRAS FRANCE ARRAS ARRAS ENGLAND ARRAS ARRAS SALONIKA ARRAS ARRAS GAZA ARRAS FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE M E S O P OTA M I A FRANCE FRANCE SALONIKA FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE
AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED
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M G COLE J A HOBSON C L G U N N E RY C E COOKE C R COOK A J E H AWK S H G S A R G E AU N T N H WA L L I N G TO N M G PAW L E G N H U N S TO N E F R P R ET Y M A N R BANKS W W F I T Z H E R B E RT R H GRIFFIN K M P OT T E R L FORBES S W S H I P PA R D A C HEBERDEN E H K ENDALL H L R I D L EY R J DEANE E G L KING W F FISHER T HUGGAN B A CARR O P B R OWN E A F COLEMAN K M J FERGUSSON A L HARRIS A J E SUNDERLAND F C W E S T M A C OT T S H M OT I O N C H B AY L EY A G MILLARD C R WA L L E R R EVA N S H E READ G M EVA N S W D A HOLLAND W A D I XO N L E FORMAN W H BA M B R I D G E F C L EWI S N M O N TG O M E RY T L BOURDILLON H C ROUND R S C H A DW I C K H E S T R E ET T WEEDING J L KELSALL S H CLARKE A T RICKARDS F M H AWE S J B FREEMAN J K L AW F D TUCKER A S B R OWN A E B A R R OW E J G AY E R A B P E N L I N G TO N W W CHAPMAN E D PA L ET H O R P E F C E CLARKE D J B R E S S EY R L E ET H A M F H L EW I N I R PAT E R S O N R G T I T L EY A B RYA N T G HUME–GORE A W S TO N E A E H O LT E GAMMAN J P WHEELER J R T PA R A D I S E G M MAITLAND R A WA L L E R A F L A M B E RT W N R P O L E – C A R EW B G H C OT TO N P C C OWA N 42
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( B 1 1912–1916) (C 1 1884–1887) (C3 1911–1914) ( B 1 1910–1913) (C 3 1912–1916) ( B 3 1908–1911) (B3 1886–1890) (S U 1 9 1 2 – 1 9 1 5 ) (PR 1888–1891) (C 3 1912–1914) (B1 1906–1907) (C2 1902–1906) (C 1 1906–1909) (CO 1893–1897) (C3 1894–1898) (C 3 1892–1898) (C2 1905–1909) (C R 1914–1917) (A 1 9 0 8 – 1 9 0 9 ) (C 1 1 9 0 8 – 1 9 1 3 ) (LI 1912–1916) (B1 1909–1911) (C 1 1 9 1 1 – 1 9 1 5 ) ( L I 1911–1916) (C 3 1 8 9 3 – 1 8 9 8 ) (B1 1911–1916) (PR 1902–1904) (C 2 1 9 0 7 – 1 9 0 9 ) (B1 1899–1904) (B3 1890–1892) (B2 1911–1916) (C1 1908–1913) (LI 1893–1899) (C R 1911–1917) ( B 3 1912–1916) (C 1 1911–1914) ( B 2 1906–1911) ( B 3 1895–1901) ( B 1 1905–1911) (C 3 1912–1914) ( B 1 1912–1916) ( H B 1903–1907) (C 2 1911–1916) ( H B 1897–1899) (C 3 1 9 0 1 – 1 9 0 6 ) (B2 1910–1915) (PR 1890–1893) (B3 1890–1893) (C 1 1 8 9 1 – 1 8 9 7 ) (PR 1905–1909) (C 1 1910–1914) ( B 3 1906–1909) ( B 3 1912–1916) (B2 1911–1916) (C O 1908–1911) (CO 1908–1912) (S U 1906–1908) (B3 1901–1907) (C 2 1 9 1 2 – 1 9 1 5 ) (PR 1911–1915) ( P R 1910–1914) (C2 1907–1909) ( B 1 1909–1913) (C1 1912–1915) (PY 1902–1903) (C2 1909–1914) (LI 1911–1916) (B1 1903–1906) (C1 1881–1883) (C 3 1 9 1 1 – 1 9 1 4 ) ( L I 1894–1897) (B1 1912–1916) (C2 1904–1907) (C2 1906–1909) (B1 1908–1911) ( L I 1893–1897) (C 3 1897–1903) (C1 1892–1894) (LI 1910–1914) (C1 1902–1905) (C3 1909–1912)
18/05/1917 21/05/1917 22/05/1917 23/05/1917 09/06/1917 15/06/1917 15/06/1917 21/06/1917 26/06/1917 28/06/1917 04/07/1917 05/07/1917 07/07/1917 07/07/1917 08/07/1917 09/07/1917 10/07/1917 10/07/1917 12/07/1917 15/07/1917 18/07/1917 22/07/1917 24/07/1917 24/07/1917 26/07/1917 31/07/1917 31/07/1917 31/07/1917 31/07/1917 31/07/1917 31/07/1917 01/08/1917 07/08/1917 07/08/1917 09/08/1917 10/08/1917 10/08/1917 11/08/1917 13/08/1917 16/08/1917 16/08/1917 19/08/1917 21/08/1917 21/08/1917 24/08/1917 24/08/1917 25/08/1917 25/08/1917 26/08/1917 28/08/1917 02/09/1917 13/09/1917 14/09/1917 20/09/1917 21/09/1917 25/09/1917 01/10/1917 04/10/1917 04/10/1917 06/10/1917 07/10/1917 09/10/1917 11/10/1917 12/10/1917 12/10/1917 12/10/1917 12/10/1917 13/10/1917 17/10/1917 17/10/1917 24/10/1917 25/10/1917 26/10/1917 29/10/1917 30/10/1917 01/11/1917 01/11/1917 02/11/1917 06/11/1917 08/11/1917 08/11/1917
BELGIUM FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE MESSINES FRANCE ARMENTIERES ARRAS LAHORE FRANCE YPRES PA L E S T I N E FRANCE POPERINGHE YPRES FRANCE FLANDER S FLANDER S FLANDER S YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES ENGLAND FLANDER S YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES ENGLAND FRANCE FRANCE YPRES WA Z I R I S TA N YPRES ENGLAND FRANCE FRANCE FRANCE YPRES YPRES YPRES FLANDER S YPRES FRANCE FRANCE ENGLAND YPRES FRANCE YPRES C A NA D A YPRES YPRES YPRES FRANCE YPRES FRANCE YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES TA N Z A N I A D R OWN E D YPRES YPRES YPRES YPRES BELGIUM FRANCE GAZA YPRES PA L E S T I N E
AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED
18 47 19 20 19 21 44 19 44 19 26 28 25 38 35 36 21
AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED
23 22 19 22 19 18 37 19 29 24 31 42 19 22 37
AGED AGED AGED AG E D AGED AG E D AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED
19 20 25 35 25 18 18 27 19 32 29 21 40 41 38 26 20 24 18 20 24 19 25 29 19 20 21 24 21 19 29 22 19 24 48 20 38 19 27 25 23 35 33 38 21 29 22
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C A S AV I L L E F E N –E C K E R S A L L C G D OWD I N G H L F B OY D R S WHITMORE L F W A K ENDALL W R M O RTO N N G WILLOCK G S SMITH G H PINCHIN H W WI N D E L E R J N ELLIS J W M AXWE L L P C D DOUGLASS E J WO O D H O U S E E D MANSON C C A NORRIS W W MORRICE A L JENKINS
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(B3 1902–1905) (C2 1882–1886) ( B 1 1902–1906) (LI 1904–1910) (C3 1908–1912) (B3 1905–1908) (C 1 1875–1879) (C 3 1 9 1 1 – 1 9 1 4 ) (B1 1908–1913) (C O 1 9 0 7 – 1 9 1 1 ) (LI 1907–1910) (C3 1912–1916) ( H B 1895–1898) ( P R 1900–1902) ( L I 1898–1903) (C 3 1907–1910) ( B 3 1913–1917) (B1 1895–1896) (C 3 1905–1911)
08/11/1917 10/11/1917 17/11/1917 19/11/1917 20/11/1917 21/11/1917 21/11/1917 22/11/1917 24/11/1917 27/11/1917 27/11/1917 01/12/1917 04/12/1917 10/12/1917 18/12/1917 24/12/1917 26/12/1917 30/12/1917 31/12/1917
ARRAS FLANDER S EAST AFRICA YPRES CAMBRAI PA L E S T I N E JA PA N CAMBRAI ARRAS PA L E S T I N E CAMBRAI YPRES YPRES SALONIKA FRANCE AMERICA ENGLAND SOMME ENGLAND
AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AG E D AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED AGED
25 48 28 27 23 27 56 20 18 24 20 19 36 31 33 24 18 36 25
F U RT H E R R E A D I N G As part of its Great War commemorations, the College has made available online the entire contents of the Roll of Honour, both photographs and citations, along with The Marlburian magazines for the years 1900 to 1925. These are accessible at: archive.marlboroughcollege.org. The collection is fully searchable and will be a great resource for anyone interested in OM involvement before, during and after World War I.
temporary command of A Company, he was wounded in an attack on Hooge Crater on 9 August 1915 and was invalided home where he underwent two operations. His wound healed well but the strain of many months of combat had caused him to develop classic symptoms of shell shock – or neurasthenia. He continued to suffer from nervous attacks thereafter.
Remembering Roger Whitmore MC 100 years after his death oger Searle Whitmore (C3 1908-11) was gazetted 2nd Lieutenant in the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry on 1 October 1913 and initially served with the 3rd (Reserve) Battalion in Tipperary. He was promoted to Lieutenant on 26 September 1914 before being posted to France on 27 November where he joined the 1st Battalion KSLI at the front near Armentières on 3 December. While in
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Whitmore rejoined the battalion in May 1916, and was placed in temporary command of D Company. He received his captaincy in October 1916. On 7 July 1917, once again in command, D Company came under intense bombardment during a German raid and suffered heavy casualties. In recognition of his bravery and leadership during this raid, Whitmore was awarded the Military Cross for;
On 20 November 1917, the 1st Battalion KSLI took part in a coordinated attack on the Hindenburg Line near Cambrai. D Company’s objective was to capture the Hindenburg support line; they encountered little opposition until the final stage when they came under heavy machine gun fire. Their objective was achieved but at a high cost of 22 casualties including Roger Whitmore who was fatally wounded and died later that day. He is buried at Ribecourt British Cemetery, southwest of Cambrai.
‘...conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a hostile raid on our trenches. Throughout an intense bombardment by every description of projectile. He kept his line manned and successfully repulsed the enemy. He showed admirable skill and energy in organising the defence, and later in re-establishing the line when it had been practically flattened by the violence of the barrage.’ – The London Gazette, 17 September 1917.
R S Whitmore’s MC dress medal was donated to the Archive by great-neice Kate (née Whitmore B1 1982-84) and Richard Brookes-Smith The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Daring to Fail Jake Meyer (C3 1997-2002) explains why his second unsuccessful attempt at climbing K2 is not something to be ashamed of. Failure of this kind makes you realise that you’ve gone well beyond your comfortable boundaries, and this is something to embrace and learn from. n the summer of 2016, I returned for my second attempt to climb K2, the second highest mountain in the world and widely considered one of the most difficult and dangerous mountains. I invested a year of planning, tens of thousands of pounds and two months of blood, sweat and tears into an expedition, which ultimately resulted in us having to abort our summit attempt due to an avalanche which destroyed Camp 3.
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Having done over 20 expeditions around the world, one of the questions I often
get asked, when I speak about my experiences, is: “Why do you put yourself through all that pain and misery when the summit is never guaranteed?” My answer is always the same: it’s the very fact that it isn’t guaranteed, that makes it so attractive and a trial worth enduring. If a successful outcome was certain, then everyone would do it. Nothing really worth achieving is ever easy. The pattern of our lives is painted by the series of choices and resultant outcomes. They may be carefully considered in pursuit
of a desired goal or instinctive reactions in the moment to sudden challenges or fleeting opportunities. To willingly place oneself in situations that are outside your comfort zone is the ultimate demonstration of a voyage of self-discovery. We’re never entirely sure of what is possible unless we’re willing to try, and you must be prepared to risk failure in the pursuit of something important. The line between boldness and recklessness is a narrow blade that has to be negotiated carefully, it is valuable but unforgiving. To paraphrase Bryce Courtenay: “The mind is the athlete – the body is simply the means to run the race. Think beyond your comfort zone and then dare your courage to follow your thoughts.”
“I invested a year of planning, tens of thousands of pounds and two months of blood, sweat and tears ...”
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Top: Climbing the steep rock bands between Camp 1 and Camp 2. Above: Jake Meyer. Above right: Battling through a storm ascending the notoriously difficult ‘House’s Chimney’ at 6500m between Camp 1 and Camp 2
“To willingly place oneself in situations that are outside your comfort zone is the ultimate demonstration of a voyage of self-discovery.”
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A colleague of mine used to warn against finding oneself in the comfy chair. The long-serving survivors in organisations, who are happy plodding along, don’t want to raise their heads above the parapet or rock the boat, and they believe that doing the bare minimum will guarantee them a job for life. He used to say: “When death comes to find you, make sure you’re still alive”. During a Radio 4 interview in the wake of the European Space Agency Schiaparelli Lander crashing into Mars in October 2016, when challenged about the multimillion-pound “failure”, one of the ESA scientists retorted: “If everything went perfectly every time, you’d be suspicious that you weren’t doing something exciting or which would help us to progress. Getting things wrong is what helps us to progress.” My earliest memories of Marlborough are being forced to try every sport under the sun during the Shell games circus. Looking back at this compulsory suckit-and-see use of our Wednesday afternoons, I am incredibly grateful for every opportunity that we were given. I persevered with few of these sports or activities, but I’m proud to say that
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I played lacrosse and Eton Fives, that I’ve been mountain boarding, and that I attempted gymnastics, all before I turned 15. Sometimes we choose to do different things, sometimes we are forced to do them, but either way, it encourages us to step out of our comfort zone. The US Marine Corps believe that “Comfort is an illusion. It is a false sense of security bred from familiar things and familiar ways. It narrows the mind, weakens the body, and robs the soul of spirit and determination.” So, my advice? Get out of that comfy chair. Go forth and endeavour to explore what could be possible, not just what is guaranteed. Will I return to K2 one day? I certainly plan to. Will it be third time lucky? Who knows? But if I don’t try, then I’ll never know if I have what it takes to climb the Savage Mountain. Jake Meyer fostered his love of climbing and adventure at Marlborough and hasn’t looked back (or down) since
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Bloodlines: a brief, and highly selective, history of migration in Vienna
diverse corners of the empire. Bohemians, Hungarians, Germans and a large Jewish population all struggled and occasionally fought to carve out their own piece in the booming metropolis.
Constantin Atnas (SU 1993-96), the product of a Levantine/Austrian migration story, tries to put the summer 2015 refugee crisis in its historical context, by highlighting some of the previous migration streams that have made the city of Vienna, and Central Europe generally, into what it is today.
From about the 17th century, the city had become home to a prominent and prosperous Greek community. The Greek National School of Vienna is the oldest such surviving institution anywhere in the world, barring Greece itself. Many initially settled to escape Turkish rule in their homeland and the Balkans – the Habsburgs, at the time, being the Ottomans’ main Christian military rival in the area. Greek merchants enabled Austria to build direct trade links with the Levant and North Africa where previously they would have had to go via Venice, and the resulting profits enabled some of these traders to become financiers in their own right. The most prominent of these would eventually be ennobled, such as the family of Georg von Sina, who commissioned the magnificent Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity in Vienna’s 1st District, in the midst of what used to be the Greek Quarter. Sinas had found the architect of said church, a Danish migrant called Theophil Hansen, in Athens where he had already built two of his eventual Neoclassical Trilogy:
igration streams run like arteries through the history of Central Europe. Sometimes peaceful, sometimes less so. And if the migration streams are the arteries of Central Europe, then Vienna is its heart, sucking in and pumping out in repetitive motion.
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At the dawn of the last century, Vienna was the world’s fourth largest city, and potentially its most productive in terms of art, music and ideas. The capital of a magnificent yet declining, idiosyncratic, polyglot empire, assembled over centuries by the wars and nuptials of the Habsburg family, industrialisation had brought a population boom of migrants from all the linguistically and culturally 48
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the Academy of Athens, and the National Library of Greece, later to be completed by the Zappeion. His most famous building would, however, be the neoclassical masterpiece Austrian Parliament building as well as, coincidentally, the small chapel in the Matzleinsdorf cemetery, where my grandfather is buried. Another of these ennobled families were the Coudenhove-Kalergis, whose progeny Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi became one of the intellectual pioneers of European Integration and created the original design for the European Union flag still in use today (though in slightly amended form). Possibly the most productive community of all were the Jews of Vienna. Enabled by the Tolerance Patents of Emperor Joseph II in 1782, they were free to openly live their faith, attend university, and practice the professions. Economic opportunity and the relative anonymity of city life drew many to Vienna from their original communities further east in Silesia and Moravia. Some of the more successful ones were ennobled, and a number eventually converted to Christianity or intermarried into other communities, creating a schism between the ‘assimilated’ (such as Sigmund Freud), and the visually more prominent religious Orthodox – the two communities generally viewing each other with mutual suspicion and contempt. While the government may have been comparatively benign in its treatment of the minority, the general public was less so, and crude antisemitism was commonplace and accepted. Under the legendary (and infamous) mayor Dr Karl Lueger, this
folksy antisemitism would be syncretised into a political doctrine for the first time, greatly influencing a luckless young student from Upper Austria, Adolf Hitler. Lueger’s legacy is problematic until this day, and Jewish Vienna would not survive in any meaningful form the horrors of the Nazi era. National Socialist racial doctrine saw no distinction between assimilated or Orthodox, one grandparent on either side was enough to earn you a ‘yellow star’ and eventual transport to an extermination camp. Of all the cities of the Third Reich, Vienna erased its Jewish heritage most completely, and not a single temple would survive. Many more streams would follow over the years, the 20th century perhaps standing out most notably for the horror and dislocation it brought to Central Europe. The end of the Habsburg monarchy also signalled the beginning of the end of progressive, cosmopolitan Vienna and the city’s population began
Top left: Theophil Hansen. Top right: Georg von Sina. Above: The magnificent Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity in Vienna’s 1st District
“Of all the cities of the Third Reich, Vienna erased its Jewish heritage most completely, and not a single temple would survive.”
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to decline. The political antisemitism and Catholic clericalism of the pre-war era prepared the ground for, first, the Austroauthoritarianism of Englebert Dollfuss, whom local Nazis would literally butcher in his chancellery, and, later, for the Nazis themselves. Austrians would be enthusiastic participants in the National Socialist project, and be overrepresented in organisations such as the Waffen-SS. Of those who managed to escape National Socialism many were members of the intellectual and academic elite, both Jewish and Gentile. Fritz Lang, director of the futuristic masterpiece Metropolis, at the time the most expensive film ever made, would follow the composer Arnold Schoenberg to California, and found refuge in Hollywood along with his fellow Viennese Billy Wilder and Hedi Lamar, amongst many others. Schoenberg’s student Alban Berg would be less lucky and died of blood poisoning caused by an insect bite having spent the previous years in virtual seclusion in the southern state of Carinthia. He had been victimised for his association with the Jewish Schoenberg and the Nazis’ general aversion to ‘degenerate’ modernist streams in music and art. Sigmund Freud died of cancer in London, a city he did not particularly like, with the author Stefan Zweig holding the funeral oration at Golders Green Crematorium, before himself carrying on to exile in Brazil, via Britain and the US. He and his wife would later be found dead, holding hands, following a self-administered barbiturate overdose, having despaired of developments in Europe.
Fritz Lang
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Billy Wilder
Václav Havel
“Austria itself took in more asylum applications than any country bar Sweden, and more per capita than Germany”
The end of the Second World War brought first ethnic German refugees from Czechoslovakia and Eastern Europe, fleeing the vengeance of the furious Russians. In 1956, hundreds of thousands of Hungarians fled the Russian crackdown of their unsuccessful uprising, followed 12 years later by Czechs and Slovaks after the crushing of their own Prague Spring. Most notable among the Praguer émigrés would be the playwright Václav Havel, later to become the first Czechoslovak President of the post-communist era. Intermingled among these would be a steady stream of Soviet Jews on their way to Israel or the United States. Austria only really began to investigate and accept its wartime complicity in the crimes of the Nazi regime in the 1980s. Until then it chose to ‘make amends’ through enabling the emigration of Soviet Jews to Israel and the US via Vienna. The brainchild of Dr Bruno Kreisky, the great Social Democratic Chancellor of the era, and himself scion of a haute-bourgoeis, non-religious Jewish
War refugees 2015
family. Kreisky had himself spent the war years as a political refugee in Sweden, and upon his return began to implement the creation of a Scandinavian-style welfare state in Austria. The strong influence of Swedish Social Democracy is until today evidenced by the large social housing projects named after prominent Swedish politicians such a Per-Albin Hanson and Olof Palme. The summer of 2015 again witnessed events on an historical scale, as millions of refugees and migrants transited through Austria on their way to Germany and Sweden. While I say transited, it is worth mentioning that per capita Austria itself took in more asylum applications than any country bar Sweden, and more per capita than Germany. In the face of state apathy and neglect, civil society jumped in and performed a marvel – feeding and sheltering over a million people between July 2015 and the following winter. Concurrently, a strong polarisation of the political climate became evident, with normal debate between the ‘pro’ and ‘anti’ refugee elements becoming almost impossible. The jury is still out on how the new arrivals will integrate and perform. In general, it is becoming evident that the Syrians will probably do reasonably well, due to their adequate level of education and entrepreneurial mindset, whereas the young Afghans will require more care and assistance, perhaps unsurprising
when coming from a country that has seen nothing but war for almost 40 years. The influx of such large numbers poses a challenge to educational and welfare resources (adjusted for the UK population, the 100,000 people taken in by Austria would be equivalent to the UK taking in about 800,000). But, overall, the apocalyptic prophesies of the sceptics have so far not come to pass, or maybe it is just too soon to tell. My feeling is that the new members of the community will eventually find their place in the increasingly colourful rag-rug that is the Viennese DNA. The Syrians’ influence is already being felt in the improving quality of hummus and grilled meats available in the food markets, and the captain of the national football team is a young man of mixed FilipinoNigerian heritage. The grey, dimly lit, cold-war Vienna of my childhood has become the diverse, colourful and dynamic capital of a shared Central European cultural space, with open borders and free movement not just to the north and west, but to the east and south as well, and the city is growing again at rates not seen since the early 20th century. The challenges ahead are many, but I believe that there is also a sense of optimism evident, and that people are proud to call themselves not just Viennese, but Mitteleuropäer – Central Europeans – once again. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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The Route Less Flown Military historian Richard Mead (SU 1960-65) writes a brief history about Sam Elworthy (SU 1924-29), a muchdecorated OM bomber pilot in the Second World War, who went on to become the head of the armed services. arlborough has produced five 5-star service officers and three Knights of the Garter. Only one, however, has held both distinctions, Marshal of the Royal Air Force the Lord Elworthy KG GCB CBE DSO LVO DFC AFC MA.
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Samuel Charles Elworthy, known as Sam, although confusingly knighted as Sir Charles when the bureaucrats would not permit Sir Sam, was born near Timaru in New Zealand on 23 March 1911. His parents considered themselves British and thought nothing of taking the long sea voyage to England and renting or buying large houses there. Sam’s first such trip came in 1914, when his father brought his whole family to London in order to join the Army, serving on the Western Front.
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Having returned to New Zealand in 1919, the Elworthys were back again in the spring of 1924, this time to get Sam into an English public school. The first choice was Winchester, but Sam’s father had discovered that the entrance exam required Greek, in which Sam, educated by a tutor, was completely deficient. One of the passengers on the voyage offered an introduction to C A Emery, a housemaster at Marlborough. When contacted, Emery explained that it was too late to sit Common Entrance, but agreed to have Sam to stay, take the papers, which Emery would invigilate, and, if successful, gain a place. To the relief of all, he passed. Sam entered Emery’s house, Summerfield, in the Summer Term of 1924. It was unique at the time, in that it was an all-age house for only 26 boys and effectively a satellite of C3. It came as a shock to Sam, who had not experienced preparatory school having lived in comfort until then. He slept in a dormitory with minimal
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typically varied career, first in India and Pakistan and then back in the UK. He moved to Fighter Command in 1951, commanding Meteor stations at Tangmere and Odiham, and later became Commandant of the RAF Staff College. In 1959, he was appointed Deputy Chief of the Air Staff before being posted as tri-service Commander-in-Chief Middle East, based in Aden, from where he saw off the first threat to Kuwait by Iraq. He returned to be Chief of Air Staff, becoming a highly regarded Chief of Defence Staff from 1967 to 1971.
Above: The then Corporal Elworthy in the OTC. Above right: Sam and his younger brother, Tony, outside the Mem Hall. Below: Sam at the controls of a Blenheim bomber, 1940/1
“There were only two baths in the house, one of which was reserved for the most senior boys, whilst the remainder shared the other...”
heating in winter. The food was deplorable. There were only two baths in the house, one of which was reserved for the most senior boys, whilst the remainder shared the other, in which a thick layer of sludge would build up after games. If the baths were bad, the loos were worse as they were located in a yard outside, with no roof and no doors! Notwithstanding these privations, Sam enjoyed Marlborough, although his school career lacked distinction, other than becoming a House Captain and Head of House, but not a School Prefect. His academic ability was above average, unlike his younger brother, Tony, who was
invariably at the bottom of every class and regularly beaten for this and other misdemeanours, which included bringing a cow into Chapel! Sam did well enough in School Certificate to get into Trinity, Cambridge, in 1929 but, once there, did the minimum possible work, leaving with a Third. The reason was his passion for rowing, at which he excelled, becoming President of First Trinity Boat Club and winning a Trial Cap for the University two years running, albeit not a Blue. Having read Law, he intended to become a barrister and was called to the bar at Lincoln’s Inn. However, neither this nor stockbroking, which he tried for a short time, appealed to him. He was keen to fly and was delighted to find that the RAF would not only teach him, but pay him if he joined the reserves. In 1936, he obtained a permanent commission, flying singleengined bi-plane bombers. In due course, he graduated to the Blenheim, a monoplane light bomber, becoming a flying instructor at the beginning of the war, and then commander of a Blenheim squadron, engaged in near-suicidal daylight attacks on German shipping, for which he was awarded a DFC and a DSO. Sam spent the whole war in Bomber Command. He became Group Captain Operations at ‘Bomber’ Harris’s (Air Officer Commander-in-Chief of RAF Bomber Command during the height of the Anglo-American strategic campaign against Nazi Germany) HQ, Station Commander at Waddington, and then Harris’s personal representative with Eisenhower. After the war, he had a
Subsequently, Sam was appointed Constable and Governor of Windsor Castle, Lord Lieutenant of Greater London, a baron and a Garter Knight. He had a number of directorships, but found time to be on the Council at Marlborough and President of the Marlburian Club. He retired to New Zealand in 1978. I met Sam in 1964. His diary for 4 June of that year simply reads: Marlborough CCF. My own entry is slightly longer: Inspection Day. Spoken to by Chief of Air Staff. Standing in the band, I could see CAS start on his inspection, accompanied by his ADC for the day, a young OM RAF officer named Ian Macfadyen (C2 1955-60 and later to be one of Sam’s successors at both Windsor Castle and the Club). To my horror, when Sam reached us, he headed directly for me. Our exchange went like this: Sam: How long have you been playing the trombone, Corporal? Me: About two years, Sir. Sam: What would you like to do when you leave school? Me: I’m hoping to go to university, Sir. Sam: Have you ever thought about joining one of the armed services? Me (firmly): No, Sir! Sam (with a twinkle in his eye): I see. Well, thirty-five years ago I was a Corporal Trombonist in this band and look where it got me! At which he turned and strode away.
After a 45-year career in business, Richard Mead has found his second wind as a military historian The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Curator to the Crown Former Financial Times art critic Patricia Morison (C1 1970-72) meets Lucy Whitaker (CO 1975-77) and finds out how an introduction to History of Art at Marlborough 40 years ago led to a much-coveted life in the curator world. or 20 years, Lucy Whitaker has been Senior Curator of Paintings for Royal Collection Trust. In the deep comfort of the Goring Hotel in Victoria, a stone’s throw from the Queen’s Gallery, she told me about her job. I myself have worked around the corner for most of that time, making lunch-hour flits from my office to see superb exhibitions that explore the artistic tastes of Britain’s rulers since the reign of Henry VIII. How pleasant to discover that a fellow Marlburian is partly responsible for these feasts for art lovers!
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Common ground extends rather further, Lucy and I realised. First, we were fortunate that our parents rescued us from intellectually undemanding girls’ schools. Marlborough in the late 1970s 54
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was still a novel (and expensive) choice for educating girls. Secondly, deep fascination with art history arose from inspired teaching at MC. We both studied History of Art A-Level with the renowned Peter Carter (CR 1955-83), only she did the Italian Renaissance while I did the Northern, as PNC liked to ring the changes. In Lucy’s case, artistic talent deepened her interest. It was that golden era for the art school under Robin Child (CR 1971-92). Simon Brett (CR 1971-89) the celebrated wood engraver and illustrator, taught her to draw. Another inspirational teacher was Mark Cheverton (CR 1974-80) who, with his wife Charlotte (Lottie Ramsden), went on to found Leith School of Art in Edinburgh. Lottie was one of Lucy’s closest friends at Marlborough. They were killed in a car crash in 1991. Lucy might have gone on to an art degree at the Slade School of Art. Instead her first degree was English Literature with Art History at York University.
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The distinguished scholar Richard Verdi supervised her study of art, especially Rubens and Rembrandt. He pointed her towards the M.Phil. course at the Courtauld Institute. From the art of the Baroque, she shifted focus to 15thcentury art both north and south. Again, superb scholar-teachers made their mark: Patricia Rubin, Lorne Campbell, Michael Hirst and Howard Burns. Lucy’s thesis was on the Italian artist Maso Finiguerra (1426-64) and his Florentine Picture Chronicle in the British Museum. I admitted that Finiguerra was new to me. Wikipedia describes ‘a very curious and important book’, essentially of interest for Finiguerra’s alleged role in the development of print-making. Now, Lucy knew she wanted to work with art collections – not the easiest career path even then. However, part-time jobs made it possible to keep body and soul together. Moreover, the experience she picked up was invaluable: Editorial Assistant on the celebrated Macmillan Dictionary of Art, Slide Librarian and Assistant Photographer at Birkbeck, volunteering at Dulwich Picture Gallery (Giles Waterhouse was Director), Kenwood House and in the Prints and Drawings Room at the British Museum with Antony Griffiths. These days, any
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“These days, any aspiring young curator would ache for a formation like that..”
aspiring young curator would ache for a formation like that. Lucy achieved the highly coveted post of Research Assistant at the National Gallery (a unique post in those days). Exciting change soon began under Neil MacGregor’s dynamic directorship. Then in 1989 Lucy moved to Oxford as Curator of Christ Church Picture Gallery, a wonderful, yet in my time at Oxford, not widely known collection. At its heart is a cultivated 18th-century general’s bequest of some 2,700 largely Italian Old Master paintings and drawings, with superb drawings by Leonardo, Titian, Michelangelo, Raphael, Pontormo and more. The Picture Gallery is tucked away in a distinguished ‘Brutalist’ building by Powell and Moya. Here, Lucy spent eight happy years. She relished the interaction alike with Christ Church dons, undergraduates, and the public. In addition to promoting the gallery and researching and publishing the collections, there were exhibitions to arrange. A loan exhibition
to Japan helped raise funds to renovate the gallery: an exhibition of Richard Wentworth upset the Gallery’s conservative supporters. From this relatively quiet backwater, Lucy moved to St James’s Palace, appointed by another OM, the then Surveyor of The Queen’s Pictures Christopher Lloyd (B1 1959-63) to become part of a royal staff of, it is said, a thousand. How big is the Royal Collection? It depends how you count, but it runs to more than a million objects. There are 8,000 paintings and 3,000 miniatures, which comprises a mere 1%. The remaining 99% are works on paper, decorative arts, and furniture. They adorn some 13 royal residences and former residences. Royal Collection Trust is a department of the Royal Household, but also a charity: the art is held by The Queen in trust for her successors and the nation. What are the Senior Curator’s principal tasks? A large part of it is researching paintings and the history of the Royal Collection for the purposes of publication, mounting exhibitions, and arranging new picture hangs, and generally enhancing appreciation of the Collection. Almost all of it has been inventoried; there are more than 257,000 records of works of art online. Catalogues of the most important schools have been published but some
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Above: Lucy in the Canaletto and the Art of Venise exhibition at the Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace. The exhibition runs in Edinburgh from 4 May to 4 November 2018. It then moves to the National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin from 5 December 2018 to 24 March 2019
“...the Royal Collection can afford more ‘niche’ shows than public museums, where tightening purse strings mean directors and trustees shrink from shows lacking box-office appeal.”
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need to be updated and others remain to be published. Picture frames is another important area. Choosing a sympathetic new frame for a royal masterpiece is both an expensive and a ticklish matter. Prince Albert enjoyed reframing the entire Picture Gallery of Buckingham Palace, not to modern ideas, but his royal taste demands respect. The Queen is a most generous lender to exhibitions in this country and around the world, hence arranging loans is a major activity. The monarch personally approves each single loan. The Royal Collection charges no fees for loans. However, economy is the watchword, so this feature of royal largesse might change in the future. Because no empty spaces are tolerated, acceptable substitutes in the royal residences and palaces must be proposed. Some loans are permanent, for example, the Raphael Tapestry Cartoons in the V&A, loaned at the wish of Queen Victoria in memory of Prince Albert. Another example of royal generosity is the newly renovated Queen’s House in Greenwich, where the sensuous ‘Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife’ by Orazio Gentileschi hangs until 11 October 2017. A commission from Charles I, his beloved Queen Henrietta Maria hung it in her new home in 1637. The Gentileschi went in the massive clear-out of Charles’ paintings but was brought
back at the Restoration. How fitting, then, that Potiphar’s wife is once again seductively at home in Greenwich. Changes in displays are also made for the exhibitions in The Queen’s Galleries in London and Edinburgh. Normally, the famous Canaletto views of Venice form the glorious backdrop in The Queen’s Audience Room. For the current exhibition, Canaletto and the Art of Venice, the curators needed to propose replacements. Happily, Canaletto’s views of London acceptably filled the slot. A guiding principle from the outset was that in The Queen’s Galleries only works from the Royal Collection are to be shown. This gives visitors a chance to see as much as possible of the important holdings of the Royal Collection and to be able to appreciate art that normally furnishes royal palaces brought together in coherent and carefully planned exhibitions. The Queen’s Gallery at the Palace of Holyrood House in Edinburgh was built in the shell of the former Holyrood Free Church in 2002 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations. There had been a gallery on the corner of Buckingham Palace since early in The Queen’s reign, but it was splendidly rebuilt and enlarged in 2002. Exhibitions are a great focus. They are the chance for detailed study of an area of the
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collection. They also dictate which works are conserved at the conservation studio at Windsor. They are not principally crowd-pleasers; there needs to be an intellectually coherent purpose. However, as Lucy points out, exhibitions are an important source of revenue, with two bites at the cherry, in London, and at The Queen’s Gallery in Edinburgh. Even so, the Royal Collection can afford more ‘niche’ shows than public museums, where tightening purse strings mean directors and trustees shrink from shows lacking box-office appeal. Frantic times lie ahead. Complete re-hangs are due at Windsor Castle and Holyrood, let alone the impending renovation of Buckingham Palace. However, the exhibition programme will continue. Reattributions and rediscoveries are one of the hoped-for joys of a curator’s job. Lucy has seen three paintings rise from obscurity, even making it into the newspapers. For the 2007 Italian art exhibition The Calling of Saints Peter and Andrew catalogued as after Caravaggio, was reassessed by Caravaggio himself ‘in many serious scholars’ eyes – or at least, very close to the master’. Another painting, ‘Boy Peeling Fruit’ has been upgraded to being perhaps Caravaggio’s earliest work. ‘Acceptance is growing’, Lucy observes. A third discovery came with the Castiglione drawings show in 2013. A gloomy ‘Jupiter and Io’ had been hanging in an obscure corner. Looked at afresh, it suddenly became clear it was by Castiglione. Lucy’s most recent project, Canaletto and the Art of Venice will surely top attendance records. Anyone with a weakness for Venice, especially in its far happier 18th-century guise, should visit. Thirty Canaletto views in one gallery alone are proof of George III’s enthusiasm for fashionable images of the sea-borne republic he never visited. You will find Lucy there, in a short film, sharing her love of the art of Italy. That was the flame lit 40 years ago at Marlborough, for which she remains grateful.
Patricia Morison was a medieval historian at Oxford and now works for the Sainsbury Family Charitable Trusts The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Marlborough College and the Great War in 100 Stories In bringing to a conclusion our commemoration of those Marlburians who died in the First World War, we are producing a book to tell the stories of a community at war – stories of a place and a people through a period of conflict that radically changed their world.
£35.00 Special pre-publication price
his high-quality legacy publication will tell the fascinating and often deeply moving stories of Marlborough and Marlburians in the Great War. Each story will have a double-page spread of text and image, richly illustrated with unique historical or contemporary photos. Along with the more familiar names of Charles Sorley, Sidney Woodroffe and Siegfried Sassoon, you will find also some personal family memories of OMs – drawn from diaries and letters, snapshots of school life before and during the war, and stories behind commemorative objects and places around the College such as the Outerbridge window in Chapel and the Wedgwood Stone. Through the book there runs a strong thread of shared Marlborough heritage, experience and memory. It is a unique journey of reflection about those momentous years, which show what that special generation achieved and endured.
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It is being produced by an editorial team headed by David Du Croz (Head of History at MC 1996-2007), consisting of Old Marlburian authors David Walsh and Robin Brodhurst, archivists Clare Russell and Gráinne Lenehan, former Secretary 58
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of the Marlburian Club, Martin Evans, and former British Museum and English Heritage photographer, Ian Leonard. This is a limited edition, beautifully bound and extensively illustrated, quality publication, of only 749 copies – the exact number of those who are commemorated on the back wall of the Memorial Hall. To secure your copy, we are asking you to place an advance order prepaid in full – the pre-publication price is £35 (+£5 postage and packing) rising to £40 (+P&P) after the launch in May 2018. Orders must be placed via The Marlburian Collection Online Shop, which is accessed via the Members’ Area of the Marlburian Club website, clicking on OM Merchandise/Memorabilia. All proceeds after full publication costs have been paid will go towards the College’s Bursary Appeal, enabling as many young people as possible to share in that rich heritage of which these stories are but a part. For more details and to order go to:
shop.marlboroughcollege.org
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Let’s Get Digital As the real world continues to blur with the technological world, our environment is ever-increasingly technology driven. With this growing dependency on computers, how can we feel more in control of this change rather than simply being on the receiving end?
Simon Peyton Jones
imon Peyton Jones (TU 1971-75), Principal Researcher at Microsoft Research in Cambridge and chair of the UK’s Computing at School, and Gary Shearn (CR 1998-), the College’s Head of Academic IT, express the importance of learning computing to Mark Tidmarsh (B3 1983-87).
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Why should we encourage the study of computing? One of the exciting things is that computing is one of those fields where it is almost impossible to predict what will happen next. This is why we cannot even begin to imagine all the ways that it can invigorate life by contributing to it.
Gary Shearn
“...an elementary understanding of computer science equips you to make informed choices in the digital world.”
From a career perspective, a growing number of universities and employers see successful completion of a Computer Science course as a sign of academic wellroundedness, and the next generation of many professions hitherto un-associated with Computing Science such as doctors, law-makers, sociologists and politicians, are harnessing a future filled with technology based on computing.
Consider, for instance, that sooner rather than later robots will have sufficient intelligence to require us to include them in such fields. Think about the impact of conscience-less robots in sport, the military and law-enforcement, the sex industry and many other areas of direct contact with people. Why should every child learn computer science? We don’t teach law at primary school, but we do teach natural science. Why? Because it equips children to act as well-informed, empowered citizens in a complex world. We believe that is so important that we teach it to every child including the majority who will not become professional scientists. So, an elementary understanding of computer science equips you to make informed choices in the digital world, and this is important not only for the minority who will become the software engineers of the future, but also those who will become plumbers or lawyers or salespeople. Moreover, computing develops a child’s capacity to think in distinctive new ways, known as computational thinking. As Seymour Papert, the father of Logo, wrote: “The child programs the computer and in teaching the computer how to think, children embark on an exploration about how they themselves think. The experience can be heady: thinking about thinking turns the child into an epistemologist, an experience not even shared by most adults.”
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Currently, Simon is the Principal Researcher at Microsoft Research, based in Cambridge and an Honorary Professor of the Computing Science Department at Glasgow University, where he was a professor from 1990 to 1998. He is also chair of Computing at School, the group at the epicentre of the reform of the national curriculum for computing in England. Computer Science is now a foundational subject, alongside maths and natural science, and is something that every child learns from primary school onwards.
Based on this thinking, in 2014, the new National Curriculum established computer science, alongside digital literacy and information technology as a foundational discipline that all children should learn. Simon was at the heart of these changes, and chaired the group that wrote the new programme of study for computing. But a national curriculum is only words on a page. What about the reality in the classroom? What has the College done in re-introducing Computing Science as a subject? Following Gary’s requests, Computing Science is now available to all years in line with the English National Curriculum for computing. The Shell IT course is now a Computer Science foundation course, and Remove and Hundred are offered a GCSE course in the main timetable. It currently has two sets and the subject representation will create a society, school trips and visiting speakers. The A-level course starts in September and will be fuelled by the GCSE moving from being an extra subject like Astronomy and Greek (therefore only taken by high-end, high intelligent, highly motivated pupils) to the main block system where it is available to all pupils on an equal footing with the likes of History or Geography. Its popularity is growing and results have been excellent. What is the future for computing in the national curriculum? Other subjects have literally centuries of experience of what to teach, in what order, and how to teach them. Computer Science has virtually none. So, schools and their teachers are scrambling to develop effective and motivating pedagogy and assessment for the subject. The College is no stranger to educational innovation: as a student at 60
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Marlborough, Simon experienced the early days of teaching Maths through the School Mathematics Project (SMP), in which the College was a founder member. Perhaps it can blaze a path again? Co-operation with associations and other schools is key. Gary’s membership of NAACE (National Association of Advisors for Computers in Education), CAS (Computing at School), and the College’s participation in HMC schools and the Eton-group provide interactions as time and resources allow (the Academic Computing department number two), and there is scope to develop further via the academy relationship. So, what should we do? A little of the following from us all would be great: staying contemporary by joining in with the apps the experts – often our children – use, for instance WhatsApp and SnapChat; learning the basics of coding using apps like Kodu or Hopscotch; supporting the computing teaching staff by asking how to assist them; and by joining Computing at School, the grass-roots organisation that supports teachers in understanding and delivering a vibrant computing education. Simon Peyton-Jones has had a remarkable year. Last summer, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society; in February, he was given a BCS Distinguished Fellowship; and this summer he received three honorary degrees: D Ed from the University of Bath, D Sc from the University of Kent and D Sc from Queen Mary University of London. All of these are in recognition of his work in computer science, for his help in reforming the school-computing curriculum, and for founding Computing at School.
Simon’s main interest is in the design, implementation and application of lazy functional languages. In practical terms, much of his work is focused around the Glasgow Haskell Compiler and its ramifications. For further details on Simon’s work, watch his motivational video ‘Teaching creative Computer Science’ or read more by searching Computing at School. Before Marlborough, Gary Shearn had 14 years in the computer industry in roles from assembly language programming through to system design and consultancy. After university, where he gained a B.Sc. in Cybernetics and Control Engineering from Reading, he worked initially for the global travel industry and latterly in financial markets. A young family led him into teaching after another spell at university, and, following a thorough grounding in the maintained sector and at ‘Teddies’, he rolled up at Marlborough on the retirement of the legendary Beverly Heath (1962-98), 20 years ago! If you would like to lend your time to Gary and his pupils, contact him at gbs@marlboroughcollege.org Mark Tidmarsh has delivered customer experience programmes for clients including Orange and Citi and is currently working with the UK Government’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency. For lively discussion and digital business support, join the swelling ranks of Marlburians in the Digital Professional Group by emailing mark.tidmarsh@ gmail.com To digitality and beyond, engage!
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OM News President Elect Next year’s President of the Marlburian Club, Paul Orchard-Lisle (SU 1952-56), was one of the cohort that joined Summerfield in 1952 to bring its members for the first time up to those of a full boarding house. After National Service with the Royal Regiment of Artillery and a degree in Estate Management from Cambridge, Paul spent 40 years with the surveying firm of Healey and Baker, becoming its senior partner in 1988. He retired from work in 2001 having been Chairman of Cushman and Wakefield Europe and Asia, and since then has held numerous directorships. From 1988-91, Paul was the senior serving officer in the Territorial Army with the post of Brigadier United Kingdom Land Forces. For 12 years he was a Governor of Harrow School and subsequently joined the Council of Marlborough College becoming Chairman in 2001. Paul is an Honorary Fellow of Trinity Hall Cambridge, and holds honorary doctorates from Reading University and the City University. He was the Representative Deputy Lieutenant for Westminster from 2007-2013.
On 3 March 1915, Ronald Owen Lagden (LI 1903-08) became the fifth England international to die in service during the First World War. His single cap for England came in the 1911 match versus Scotland at Twickenham, where England won 13-8. Lagden – playing in the back row – converted two of England’s three tries. After coming down in 1912, Ronald took a post at Harrow School as a Mathematics master, continuing to play rugby for Richmond, where he was vice-captain in 1912-13. It is Easy to be Dead, a play based on the works of Charles Hamilton Sorley (C1 1908-13), transferred to Trafalgar
Studios 2 following a successful run at the Finborough Theatre in west London at the end of 2016. The original London run at the Finborough, which the Marlborough College Archive department advised on, played to sellout audiences, and was nominated for seven Off West End Theatre Awards including Best New Play, Best Male Performance, and Best Director. Peter Welsford (CO 1939-41) co-authored the chief article Is Francis Bacon the true author of Shakespeare’s plays? in issue 94 of The Caduceus Magazine. The article was in two parts and concluded in issue 95. Both issues are held in the College Library and can be ordered through the Club office. Piers Nicholson (B3 1948-52) became a Founder Freeman of the Guild of Entrepreneurs, which, in about six years’ time, is expected to join the 110 Livery Companies of the City of London. “The Livery Companies trace their origins to medieval times, when they started as trade guilds,” Piers explains. “Their objectives were to enforce standards, restrict entry to the trade to apprentices of existing
members, and to look after members of the guild who had fallen on hard times. In 1900, there were around 70 companies, but nowadays three or four new ones are started every decade. The Guild of Entrepreneurs is somewhat unusual, because it has a very young membership (except for me!) and is very well balanced in terms of gender and ethnicity.” Every second Tuesday, they have a gathering in Abchurch Street. Aspirant members are encouraged to come to learn a bit more about the guild, the members, and the atmosphere of events. If you would like to know more, visit their website www.guildofentrepreneurs.org. Aside to this, Piers has also set up a company making sundials, Spot On Sundials. Visit www.spot-on-sundials.co.uk to find out more. A 35-minute documentary explores the past, present and future of the Marlborough Mound. The film uncovers the history of the Mound, explaining its legacy to those unaware of its profound importance, and to those curious about the unknown. It tells stories of the local area dating back to the Mound’s construction in around 2400 BC, and including key moments of Neolithic heritage, Norman royal occupation, and prestigious 18thcentury garden- and landscape-design. This film covers popular myths, newly discovered scientific evidence from carbon-dating, and cultural evolution in the hands of Lady Hertford and the Seymour family; covering 4,500 years of national heritage. The production of this film was made possible only The Marlburian Club Magazine
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OM News through the imagination and generosity of Eric Elstob (C2 195660), who left a legacy to found the Mound Trust. Thanks also goes to Michael Macfadyen (C2 1956-61), Chairman of the Mound Trust.
Much of the research for the script and screenplay, including the interviewing, was done by recent OMs: Sophie Kidwell (MO 2008-13), Georgia Stratham (EL 2008-13), Will Perry (B1 2007-12), Maeve Mahony (NC 2011-16), Molly Macaire (NC 201116), Sarah Whitham (LI 2013-15) and Marcus Miller (C3 2011-16).
The show is a prequel to the longrunning Inspector Morse and, like that series, is set primarily in Oxford. In November 2016, Marlborough College and Radley College competed for the Silk Cup, a trophy named in honour of Dennis Silk (CR 1955-68), who was both the coach of the allconquering Marlborough XV of 1963 and subsequently Warden of Radley from 1968-1991. Marlborough won the day with nine wins, two draws, and five defeats from all fixtures, taking home the cup for the first time. Neil Hall (SU 1961-63) and his son launched a new fun and interactive website www.bouncythetennisball.com. The interactive site – aimed at children – is set in the world of tennis in sunny California. The game can be bought and downloaded through the website.
On retirement five years ago, Michael Willmot (LI 1960-64) was presented with the opportunity to rescue the beautiful listed Helmsdale Station. The stationmaster’s accommodation and ticket office are now available for a unique holiday-let experience. You can find out more about the repair and refurbishment project, and about prices and availability at www.helmsdalestation.co.uk
Michael Elwyn (B3 1956-61) filmed series six of the comedy drama Stella, in which he plays Stella’s father, Ken. After his successful run in King Lear, and subsequent book on his experiences King Lear in Brooklyn, Michael Pennington (PR 1957-61) appeared in Endeavour, a British television detective drama series.
John Nelson (C3 1961-65) has officially retired as Chairman of Lloyd’s of London. Past captain of the OM Golf Society Iain Macdonald-Smith (B1 1959-63) is also a former Olympian, having won gold at the 1968 Olympics in yachting. Iain first teamed-up with Rodney Pattisson in 1967 and together they won three World, two European and three British titles. At the 1968 Olympics, they entered the ultramodern Superdocious and won gold with the most overwhelming victory ever achieved in any class in the history of Olympic yachting.
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Graham Bagnall (C2 1960–64) has retired after working for 50 years as a shipbroker for various firms on the Baltic Exchange, in the City of London. After retiring as director of SSY, the second largest firm, Graham was elected as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers. In early 2015, Graham resumed his interest in rowing and, in summer 2016, won two gold medals in the British Rowing Championships for Masters (veterans) in the VIIIs and Quadruple Sculls.
Chris de Burgh (CO 1962-66) has had a busy 2017, with tours in London, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, USA, Ireland, Canada and Switzerland. Nicholas Woodeson (B2 1963-67) played Robert Thoyt, Delaney’s lawyer, in Taboo; the regular character Artem Chernik in Holby City; and was also in an episode of Delicious on Sky1. Nick took over the role of Willy Loman in the UK tour of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, following the death of Tim Pigott-Smith.
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Simon Dormandy (C2 1971-75) – theatre director, teacher and actor – directed Caesar, set in contemporary Rome, in a collaboration between Bristol Old Vic and Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.
Lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe (PR 1967-68) won an award at the 9th Knight of Illumination Awards. Patrick was presented with The Ambersphere Solutions Award for Arena for his work on the Adele 2016 World Tour. Read about the work of his company WBD at www.woodroffebassett.com For his President’s weekend, Adrian O’Loughlin (B3 1965-69) chose to visit Marlborough along with 60 rotarians from the Leatherhead branch and rotarians from France and Belgium. Clare Russell (CR 19802017), ex-College Archivist, and her predecessor Terry Rogers (CR 19642014) conducted tours of the College campus. Adrian said: “Both groups were bowled over by the quality of the tours. I, myself, learnt so much and people were talking about it throughout the rest of the weekend.” Peter Jackson (C3 1969-73) was appointed to the Court of Appeal to fill forthcoming vacancies arising from Autumn 2017. Peter currently sits in the Family Division of the High Court. Peter grew up in Dublin and was educated at Marlborough before going on to study law at Oxford. Called to the Bar in 1978, Peter had a mixed practice until 1990 when he specialised in child law and medical treatment cases. Peter was appointed Queen’s Counsel and a Recorder in 2000, became a Deputy High Court Judge in 2003, was appointed to the Family Division of the High Court in 2010, and was Family Division Liaison Judge for the Northern Circuit from 2011 to 2017.
Since leaving Marlborough College, Mark Davison (B3 1972-75) has been involved in various horse-riding ventures around the world. Mark is the Director of Venture Co, and two projects that he has been particularly pleased to be involved in are ‘Polo for Heroes’ and ‘Heroes Ride for Recovery’. “The story begins with ‘Polo for Heroes’, which is an idea that recognises the intuitive strength that lies within horses and uses it to assist the recovery of injured service personnel. It doesn’t matter if the injured soldier has ever ridden before or not; the idea is that you introduce him/her to a horse and the innate ability of a horse to look after a rider kicks in.” Mark took six recovering forces personnel and six able-bodied on a 14-day trail ride following in the footsteps of the Shekhawati Brigade in Rajasthan, India. Visit www.venturecoworldwide.com for more information. Simon McBurney (LI 1971-75), actor, writer, director and co-founder of the award-winning theatre company Complicité had a busy 2017. Simon directed the opera A Dog’s Heart, based on a novel by Mikhail Bulgakov for the Dutch National Opera in Amsterdam in April and May 2017. In March and April 2017, the Royal Court London staged The Kid Stays in the Picture, a play directed by Simon. He also won the Outer Critics’ Circle Award for Outstanding Solo Performance for The Encounter, described as: “The show of the year, hands down” by WhatsOnStage
David Richards (B3 1972-76) was appointed Captain of the England Rifle Team for the annual international Commonwealth Match at Bisley in July 2018. Following the huge success of the UK Sepsis Trust’s (UKST) Lord Ashcroft fundraising campaign (which reached its target thanks to the generosity of donors all over the country), Sarah Hamilton-Fairley (B2 1974-76) continues to lead UKST’s efforts to improve sepsis care across the UK. Sepsis, or blood poisoning, claims 44,000 lives every year – that’s more than bowel, breast and prostate cancer, and road accidents combined. But early recognition and treatment could save 14,000 lives each year in the UK, so UKST is looking for volunteers and supporters to join the cause and help raise urgently needed funds. There are lots of ways to get involved and time is of the essence. Your support will make a big difference, visit sepsistrust.org to find out more.
For the past three years, Marlborough has entered a team into the Tassie. Originally known as the Silver Tassie, it is a golf competition for former pupils of girls’ independent schools that are members of The Independent Schools’ Joint Council. The Marlborough team, sadly yet to make it to the winners’ enclosure, is organised by Katie Naylor (née Hampel, CO 1974-76) and comprises of Charlotte Hampel (née Ashton, PR 1979-81), Pippa Lark (née Gooch, BH 1975-77) and Sally Leslie (née Stewart-Lockhart, B2 1968-70). Katie is always looking for more support from OMs. Please email marlburianclub@ marlboroughcollege.org if you are interested in finding out more. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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OM News Susanna Spicer (SU 1979-81), former editor of the Marlburian Club Magazine, married Edward Helgeson in Le Poislay, France, in May 2017, 35 years after they first met as fellow choral scholars at Cambridge.
James Norton in ITV’s Grantchester, which is based on James Runcie’s (B2 1972-77) novels
James Runcie’s (B2 1972-77) play, BACH: The Great Passion for BBC Radio 4, was broadcast on Easter Saturday 2017. The Great Passion recreates the vicissitudes and exultations of Bach’s gargantuan undertaking, while retaining the intimacy, surprise and profound sympathy that is at the heart of the work. A third series of Granchester, based on James’s novels, was also aired on ITV. As part of the BBC’s My Generations 1990s strand, Lewis Borg-Cardona’s (BH 1973-77) network radio show An Insider’s Guide To The 90s aired on Radio 6 Music in March 2017. Presented by Steve Levine, the show was programmed and written by Lewis and included interviewees such as Suede’s Bernard Butler, Blur’s Graham Coxon, The Longpigs’ Crispin Hunt, Menswear’s Matt Everitt, Space’s Tommy Scott and Franny Griffiths, plus, record producer John Leckie.
Angus Wright (B2 1978-82) played Claudius in the Almeida Theatre’s production of Hamlet. “The play scene is staged so that the royal party is seated in the front row of the Almeida and a news camera keeps track of their reactions. In close-up, the face of Claudius (the excellent Angus Wright) shifts by infinitesimal degrees as he watches the re-enactment of his crime. Instead of the usual stormy departure, his exit is all the more chilling for being so neat,” writes the Independent Review. Robert Perrins (SU 1978-83), chief executive of the Berkeley Group, was interviewed in the Evening Standard about the challenges and opportunities faced by housing developers in London. “We want to build communities, not just apartments. It’s what London needs,” Robert says.
The Whitehouse Restaurant, started in 2003 by Jane Stuart-Smith (B1 197880), was awarded the Good Food Guide’s Scottish Local Restaurant of the Year 2016.
Bestselling and award-winning author and illustrator Lauren Child (B1 198284) was named the tenth Waterstones Children’s Laureate. The role of the
The Radio 4 satirical NHS comedy Polyoaks is co-written by Dr Phil Hammond (SU 1978-80). Phil is a physician, comedian and commentator on health issues in the United Kingdom. 64
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Manuel Harlan
Frank Gardner’s (LI 1974-79) two-part documentary following his journey through Papua New Guinea, which fulfils Frank’s lifelong dream of seeing birds of paradise was aired in early 2017. You can watch it on BBC iPlayer.
Angus Wright (B2 1978-82) as Claudius in the Almeida Theatre’s production of Hamlet.
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Waterstones Children’s Laureate is awarded every two years to celebrate and recognise the important contribution children’s literature makes to cultural life. Known as Helen during her time at Marlborough, Lauren is an artist and author-illustrator of the Charlie and Lola picture books and Ruby Redfort novels. Lauren received a specially commissioned solid-silver Waterstones Children’s Laureate medal from outgoing Laureate Chris Riddell.
share art history through illustrated talks or lectures, bespoke gallery visits, study workshops, visits to cultural sites in the UK, and abroad plus private tuition. Nick is Head of History of Art at Cheltenham College where he teaches Art, History of Art, Architecture, Music, Classical Civilisation, Theology, Philosophy & Ethics. With a growing interest in media work, Nick is also an arts correspondent on Radio Gloucestershire and has written content for Radio 3 and 4 and Perspectives Magazine. only for the best homes or investments with honest and concise advice. Visit www.gwdproperty.com.
Oliver Tress (C2 1980-85) founder and managing director of Oliver Bonas opened a brand-new branch in Cheltenham in late 2017. Olly opened his first store in 1993 and has now grown the company to 61 shops across the UK. Vicky Ford (BH 1984-86) was elected as the Member of Parliament for Chelmsford in June 2017. From 2009, Vicky was Member of the European Parliament and was the lead Conservative MEP for the East of England. From 2014 to 2017, Vicky chaired the European Parliament Internal Market and Consumer Affairs Committee (IMCO), one of the most powerful economic committees of the Parliament, focusing on digital policy and unlocking trade opportunities for services and goods. James Geddes (TU 1983-87) has set up a residential search and acquisition business called GWD. The partners James Geddes, Deborah Walker and Hugh Dixon have over 50 years’ experience of the central London residential property market. The clients, of all nationalities, are those looking
Nicola Huggett (B1 1985-87), currently head of Blundell’s School in Devon, accepted the headship of Cheltenham College from September 2018. After Marlborough, Nicola read Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Oxford. Nicola began teaching in 1994 and from 1996 to 2007 taught Politics and History at Haileybury. She became a housemistress in 1999 and Head of Boarding in 2005. In 2007, Nicola was appointed as Deputy Headmistress of Downe House, where she remained until her appointment to Blundell’s in 2013.
Ursula Lewis (B1 1987-89) was appointed to a new business management role within the Wealth Management division of Deutsche Bank. Leading racehorse trainer Ralph Beckett (C2 1985-89) returned to Marlborough in February 2017 to give a talk to the Biology Society. The evening drew an audience from devotees of the newly formed Racing Society as well as members of the Natural History and Biology Society. During his talk, Ralph emphasised his reliance on modern technology such as treadmills, routine weighing, and fortnightly analysis of bloods.
Teresa Cross (B1 1985-87) took over as Secretary of the South African OM International Group from Richard Hilton (B2 1982-87). Thanks goes to Richard for all his work on behalf of the Marlburian Club in South Africa and to Teresa for taking on the role.
Nick Nelson (C2 1984-89) became the co-founder of Arcadia Education for Art History. The company aims to
Samantha Cameron (B3 1987-89) launched a new fashion label Cefinn. Cefinn is a ready-to-wear women’s capsule collection designed with the busy, modern woman in mind. The Cefinn Spring/Summer 2017 collection was available to buy at Selfridges and Net-A-Porter as well as on www.cefinn.com. “I wanted to create an urban uniform for busy women who love fashion. I felt there was a gap in the market for a designer British brand at a The Marlburian Club Magazine
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OM News Emily Brett (LI 1994-96) was interviewed on BBC Radio 4 about her humanitarian work with refugees and people seeking asylum in the UK, which includes many women and children. She has also recently won support from the EU. Emily specialises in working with refugees recovering from mass violence, torture and trafficking. She also founded Ourmala, a not-for-profit, which supports the many people struggling to make a new life here in the UK. Visit www.ourmala.com contemporary price point offering a capsule wardrobe that takes you from day to evening,” Samantha said. Colin Goldsmith (CR 1955-91) was invited to the degree ceremony at Bath University in July 2017 to watch as James Davenport (C2 1966-70), Professor of Computing Science at Bath University, conferred an honorary degree on Professor Simon Peyton Jones FRS (TU 1971-75), Professor of Computing Science at Glasgow and Cambridge. Both were outstanding at school and obtained first degrees in Mathematics at Cambridge University before separately embracing the new academic subject of Computer Science. They believe their career choices were due in no small part to the tuition and encouragement in computer programming provided by Colin, who was also Head of Mathematics from 1963-74, at a time when there were few computers in the country and certainly no reference to computing in any school syllabus. In October 2016, a gala concert was held in the Memorial Hall for the Tom ap Rhys Pryce Memorial Trust. It consisted of an afternoon of classical music, jazz and poetry, with young talent and world-class performances from classical, pop and jazz musicians. The concert marked a decade of helping disadvantaged young people achieve their full potential and celebrated the life of Tom (B1 1988-1993). 66
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Hannah Gauntlett (MO 1992-97) organised a pop-up shop in Milan, as part of Milan Design Week. Ariadne, an international organisation of women making social and political theatre to inspire change run by Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97), presented an evening of fun, friendship and fundraising in aid of homelessness in London in March 2017. On New Year’s Eve, a kind, popular man called Paddy died of natural causes, exacerbated by the cold. Paddy was 52years old and was homeless. Every week after singing at St Martin in the Fields, Susannah Tresilian would spend some time with Paddy – who would be sitting outside Leicester Square tube station. He loved the fact that Susanna sang in a choir. After a few weeks of not seeing him, Susannah contacted Streetlink to inform them that he was missing. Susannah subsequently discovered
from his son who ‘inherited’ Paddy’s patch, his tent, his dog, and his homelessness, that he had died. “This is outrageous in modern 21st century London. We are channelling our anger into something positive and useful: a fun evening of gigs, gags and information about what we can all do to help!” says Susannah. Having taken the plunge to take their gap year together, Oliver Bell (BH 1993-98) and Ravi Sabharwal (BH 1993-98) quickly found a love and knack for travel. Most graduates yearn to have a foot in the door, but these two defied the ‘norm’ and started a business together. Today, they’re the successful co-founders of Oliver’s Travels. They were interviewed in 2017 by the Evening Standard, detailing their journey from working in a spare bedroom to running a well-oiled business with a team of 25 and growing. They have remained in contact with the College and offer internships to OMs. If you’re interested, please email the Club. Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (EL 1996-2000) attended the Place2Be Awards at Mansion House where she praised the work being done by Place2Be in support of children’s mental health. “Without many of the inspiring people gathered here this evening, countless children would not receive such transformational support in their schools,” she said. “It is because of so many of you that, in their time of need, children have the help, care and attention that will get them through tough times in their lives.” The Duchess said she believed in the
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importance of confronting problems early on, to prevent them from escalating into “even greater issues later in life.” Place2Be is the UK’s leading children’s mental health charity providing in-school support and expert training to improve the emotional wellbeing of pupils, families, teachers and school staff. The charity works directly with more than 282 primary and secondary schools across Wales, Scotland and England, reaching a school population of over 116,000 pupils. Rosie Wintour (MM 1996-2001) and the Pico Players held a Summer Concert at St Michael’s Church, Chester Square in June 2017. The programme included: Smetana – Overture to The Bartered Bride; Beethoven – Symphony No. 8; and Shostakovich – Suite for Variety Orchestra (a.k.a. Jazz Suite No. 2). The proceeds from the concert went towards the Olivia Hodson Cancer Fund, a wonderful charity set up to support childhood cancer and palliative care projects at Great Ormond Street Hospital and the UCL Institute of Child Health.
The Kempson Rosedale Enterprise Trust Annual Lecture took place in November 2016, with Jake Meyer (C3 1997-02) as the speaker. The Marlborough-based charity funds selected students from St John’s Academy or Marlborough College who plan to spend holiday time or gap years undertaking an enterprising and challenging activity. February 2017’s episode of Call the Midwife saw the departure of Emerald Fennell’s (NC 1998-2003) character, Patsy, from the series. The Radio Times have assured that she will be back.
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Katyuli Lloyd (MO 1998-2003) has illustrated and produced two new book covers for the Folio Society for Patrick Leigh Fermor’s travel books on Mani and Roumeli. Katyuli also illustrated the cover of the Brazilian publication of Flush that came out in October 2016. Antonia Packard (SU 2002-04) is the Creative Director and part of a small team that has set up Head Talks, a website that hosts short talks that will inform, inspire and engage everyone with an interest in mental wellbeing. Speakers include; psychiatrists, academics, yogis, authors, meditation experts, politicians, nutritionists and many others with a keen interest in the mind, as well as people who have suffered from mental ill health and who have managed their illness and live a stable, happy and purposeful life.
Having trained as a lawyer at a firm in the City, Laura Dowley (EL 2000-05) is now working for an NGO called Asylum Access in Mexico. Their offices are housed in a migrant shelter run by a group of nuns in the state of Chiapas near the southern border with Guatemala. Aside from the legal work, Laura also campaigns for refugee and migrant rights in Mexico and across Latin America. Florence Keith Roach (NC 2000-05) is one of two filmmakers to win the 2017 BFI and SAI Bursary award for feature film development and has also been selected to partake in Channel 4 Drama’s 2017 screenwriting programme. Florence is currently developing a TV comedy series with Bandit TV, a comedy/drama TV series with Ecosse Films, and a feature film with Tantrum Films.
Georgia Cummings (MO 2000-05) and her hugely successful catering business, Potage, was featured in the Evening Standard’s article about Female Entrepreneurs in March 2017.
James MacFee (LI 2000-05) will be taking part in a full circumnavigation of the world as part of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race (www.clipper roundtheworld.com) to be completed by end of July 2018. His journey photos and blog entries can be followed at www.macandtack.com. James will be raising money and awareness for marine conservation through the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation. In his role at Camborne Energy Storage Limited, Harry Vickers (SU 2002-05) was invited by the Confederation of Indian Industry and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to speak at three different events in India. Over three days, Harry spoke in New Delhi, Hyderabad and Bangalore about Camborne’s experience of developing the first Tesla Powerpack batteries in Europe, how the energy storage industry is growing in the UK, and what lessons can be applied to the Indian market. Jack Whitehall (B1 2001-06) had a successful national tour, Jack Whitehall: At Large, which will be returning in July 2018. Jack also played the leading role in Decline and Fall on BBC One in early 2017, which can be watched on BBC iPlayer. More recently, Sky1 commissioned a new action comedy, Bounty Hunters, which stars Jack and Rosie Perez. The show is co-written by Jack and Freddy Syborn (B1 2000 -05), and sees Jack playing uptight Barnaby Walker, who gets mixed up with the adventures of New York bounty hunter (Perez) who is on The Marlburian Club Magazine
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OM News and being fortunate enough to attend Marlborough, is a million miles away from the opportunities available to many of South Africa’s youngsters. Through the work of the Foundation, they provide life-changing opportunities.”
the run. Jack said: “We are very excited to be about to start production on Bounty Hunters for Sky1. It’s a really ambitious show that brings together my and Freddy Syborn’s love of comedy and action movies, so we really hope we can pull it off.”
Pip Brignall (LI 2002-07) starred in Think of England in November 2016 and also acted and produced The Duchess of Malfi at St Giles-in-the-Fields Church in the West End in early 2017. Pip played the Duchess’ pervy twin brother and one review exclaimed: “Another impressive performance comes from Pip Brignall, who plays the role with fittingly over-the-top abandon.”
Adam Lees (B1 2002-07) took on a mammoth charity run called MAD2Run in aid of the Make A Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD), in South Africa where he currently lives. The MAD Leadership Foundation was started by former South African rugby player Francois Pienaar in 2003. As an organisation, they are dedicated to identifying and offering scholarships to academically talented young leaders who may lack the opportunities to access education. Adam commented: “Coming from the UK, 68
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In reaction to the terrorist attack at the Ariane Grande concert in May 2017, Thomas Yaxley (C1 2003-2008) set up a memorial fund for those affected by the attack in Manchester. The long-term aim of the fund will be to provide ongoing support to those who have suffered life-changing injuries. The project is called ‘Stand Together Manchester’ and you can find out about it and make a donation through various links: www.standtogethermcr.org; Twitter: www.twitter.com/StandMCR; Facebook: www.facebook.com/ StandMCR In August 2017, Kay Hudson (LI 2006-08) swam the Thames Marathon, a 14km river swim between Henley and Marlow (the equivalent to 560 lengths in a standard pool). She completed the race in just under five hours, and raised £1,750 for Friends of St Michael’s Uganda – a charity supporting a small primary school in Uganda, where she volunteered in 2009 and 2014 and where she will return next year
Having grown up in a family of dentists, William (PR 2001-06) and Florence Taylor (MM 2005-10) have launched a dental healthcare company providing a range of dental products that are free from harsh chemicals (visit www.taylors32.com). David Mahoney (C3 2001-06) and Joe Arkwright (SU 2010-15) both featured in Christmas on Broadway in 2016. Joe – who was born in C3 – is a trombonist at the RWCMD. During his time at Marlborough, David was a Music Scholar and a member of Big Band on bass guitar, a cellist and a member of the Chapel Choir.
and Asia (EMEA). Becca started working there as a trainee in 2014 following a background in human rights.
Teach A Man to Fish – produced by Ian Packard (BH 2004-09) – received the prestigious Gold Arrow award for Best Student Commercial at the 2016 British Arrows CRAFT Awards. Teach A Man to Fish was made as part of the school’s Bridges to Industry Programme for fashion brand Jigsaw. Ian completed the advert while in his final year at the National Film & Television School. Ian now runs his own production company based in London called Media Mayhem. Becca Naylor (MM 2003-08) has become Reed Smith’s Pro Bono Manager for Europe, the Middle East
Students for Happiness was set up by Arthur Kay (PR 2004-09) in 2012 when he realised that there was very little provided for students in terms of information, advice and support
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regarding mental health, wellbeing and happiness. The drop-out rate, especially architecture students, was hugely high due to pressure put on students by themselves and others, and they found they could not find adequate support from their mentors nor their peer group.
The app PlantSnapp, launched by George Williams (BH 2004-09) in 2014, has gone from strength to strength. George has collaborated with US company Garden Compass, and the new revamped app is the result. For £24 a year, or £3 per month, a subscriber can have unlimited access to more than 50 experts around the world, who will share their knowledge and wisdom and fill your Care Calendar with monthly tips to encourage you to look after your plants. Owen Farr (CO 2005-10) has been appointed the new Restaurant General Manager of The Modern Pantry, Finsbury Square. The word modern comes from the Latin term modernus: pertaining to, or characteristic of the current period. And pantry comes from the Latin word panis, meaning bread; a pantry is a cupboard or room that houses the necessities of life. Together, these two words embody The Modern Pantry’s philosophy: the desire to please and excite the palate by fusing everyday cooking with modern ingredients. Nick Higham (SU 2006–11) is involved in the Ashinaga Africa Initiative, an academic leadership programme that aims to provide the opportunity of higher education at the
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world’s leading institutions to orphaned students from 49 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Ashinaga hopes that education will empower these students to overcome their difficult backgrounds and bring positive change to their societies. Ashinaga provide these students with the training, opportunities and finances necessary to study at academic institutions around the world. If there are any OMs with knowledge of, or experience across, Sub-Saharan Africa, and who could help to encourage gifted pupils to apply for a scholarship, please get in touch with Nick by email at nicholasjameshigham@gmail.com Having attended Marlborough on an Art scholarship and continuing her studies with a foundation course at City and Guilds of London Art School, followed by Fine Art at the University of Edinburgh, Alexandra Rolls (MM 2006-11) has been studying portraiture at Charles Cecil Studios in Florence for the last three years. Using the traditional sight-size method (a technique directly inherited from John Singer Sargent, and descending from masters such as Velázquez and Van Dyck), Alexandra has become an incredibly skilled portrait artist. For information about Alexandra’s commissions or any questions about her work, contact her directly at paint@alexandrazarins.com Following a move to Hong Kong in July 2016 to play for Borrelli Walsh USRC Tigers, Will Eversfield (C3 2007-12), who represented England Students while at Newcastle University, found himself stepping up a level and is now playing for Hong Kong. The Hong Kong-born forward started in the second row for Hong Kong’s Cup of Nations opener against Papua New Guinea – starring in a 51-5 victory. Assistant coach Andy Hall said: “He’s integrated well. He’s quite a smart kid, so he’s taking things on quickly.”
Sophie Spink (MO 2009-14) and Sophie Shakespeare (EL 2011-16) represented Oxford University Hockey Club in the varsity match. Oxford beat Cambridge 4-0 with Shakespeare on the scoresheet. It was the second successive year that Oxford have had two OMs playing in the fixture. In 2016, Annie Hazlitt (MO 2009-14) joined Spink in the line-up. Charlie Norman (BH 2009-14) was included in the England Students squad to face Ireland Universities in April 2017. Norman impressed at a training day in Coventry and was named in the 23-man squad for the contest, which took place in Oxford.
Tristan Robbins (CO 2009-14) of Team Raleigh was Sprints Winner at the third round of the British Cycling Spring Cup series, the Chorley Grand Prix. Former British Junior Road Race Champion, Tristan signed for Raleigh GAC for the 2017 season. Tristan, who rode for Madison Genesis the last two seasons, won the overall in the Kalas
Ione Wells (EL 2007-2013) gave a powerful TED talk, discussing her experience of assault and the social media campaign which followed. “We need a more considered approach to using social media for social justice,” says the writer and activist. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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OM News Cup Stage race as well as Stage 2 and won the long-running Betty Pharoah Memorial Legstretchers Road Race. Tristan also had top 10s in Bristol GP and Chepstow GP. Five Old Marlburians returned to Marlborough as part of the Upper Sixth Lecture Series Life after Marlborough. Nick Nott (C3 201015), Walker Zupp (B1 2012-14), Charlie Mobbs (LI 2010-15), Helen Money-Kyrle (MO 2010-15) and Tom Cayley (CO 2010-15) took to the stage in the Mem Hall to offer university advice and share their experiences. Rosie Richards (EL 2010-15), Camilla Dunhill (MM 2010-15) and Bella Imi (EL 2011-16) are part of a capella group called Alternotives. The group produced a version of God Only Knows (famous from Love Actually), which can be seen on YouTube, and also took part in the BBC’s Pitch Battle with Gareth Malone.
Henry Martin (PR 2011-16) played in the England Rugby Sevens team as they secured the Challenge Trophy and ninth place after beating Wales 21-17 in the final of the first tournament of the 2017 Rugby Europe Sevens Grand Prix Series in Moscow. Jemima Grant (EL 2011-16) was the recipient of funding from the Arthur Scott Gap Year. Jemima wrote to us with this account of her adventures: “I set off at the beginning of January to a remote island just off the Northern coast of Madagascar, called Nosy Komba. I spent four weeks volunteering, 70
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consisting of teaching English, building homes and a school, and helping to protect the animals that are so special to such a diverse environment. The number of endemic animals was astonishing, and I found learning about the different species fascinating. The most rewarding part of the trip was teaching English, not only to the children from the local village, but also to their families and the community as a whole. My trip to Madagascar was cut short after four weeks due to an outbreak of typhoid in the volunteer camp meaning I missed out on an adventure across mainland Madagascar. However, after a month of recuperation at home, I set off for another three months and travelled to Dubai, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. This trip was worlds apart from my time in Madagascar, but my time there will be a memory that I will hold onto forever and I really hope that I will have the opportunity to go back and carry on making a difference to those who clearly need it.” OM places at Oxford and Cambridge. At a time when competition for entry to these elite institutions is higher than ever, it is testament to their abilities and attitudes that these candidates have been selected for a wide range of courses. Oscar Idelji-Tehrani (LI 2010-15) – Oxford; Maeve Mahony (NC 2011-16) – Oxford; Henry Martin (PR 2011-16) – Oxford; Tom Moody (C1 2011-16) – Oxford; and Georgia Vyvyan (MO 2011-16) – Cambridge. The Marlborough College community wished George Johnson a very happy 90th birthday in November 2016. The story was posted on The Marlburian Club Facebook page and quickly became the most ‘Liked’ news story in recent years. George joined Marlborough in 1953 as a painter and decorator. He then became General Foreman of Estates – a role he carried out until the age of 65. After that George joined the catering team in the Norwood Hall, where he has been a
familiar face for the past 25 years. The Master recognised this fine achievement of 63 years of service to the College. The Master and members of staff gathered in Norwood Hall early in 2017 to congratulate Ron Jones, Norwood Hall Supervisor, who has given 60 years of service to Marlborough College. Ron joined the Estate Department on 23 April 1957 as an apprentice carpenter and joiner aged 15. Ron spent many years as Carpentry Foreman before taking over as General Foreman in 1996. Ron held this position for 11 years before retiring in 2007, having spent 50 years working for Estates. He was persuaded to take the position as Dining Hall Supervisor by Bob Pick (CR 1980-2017) in Michaelmas 2007. Ron’s mother was the housekeeper for the Master’s Lodge under former Masters Dancy, Ellis and Cope. His father was Storeman in Norwood Hall, and Ron’s grandfather worked as a groundsman.
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Engagements, Marriages & Births Engagements Phillipa Mitcheson (MO 1994-99) to Nicholas Easener Anthony (Roo) Mitcheson (C3 19962001) to Alice Elizabeth Williams Edward Nicholson (SU 1997-2002) to Gabrielle Sims Rebecca Hony (MO 1998-2003) to Alexander Scott Peter Gordon-Finlayson (C1 19992004) to Alice Hutcheson Laura Pick (EL 1999-2004) to William Linley-Adams Octavia Wayne (MO 2001-2006) to Alexander Grimston David Macfarlane (SU 2001-2006) to Bella Mead Hermione Foster (EL 2002-07) to Joseph Maitland-Robinson Emma Pick (EL 2002-2007) to James Silcock Alexandra Magill (MO 2002-07) to Charles Vey
Marriages Michael Bush (TU1993-98) to Lesley Olsen Maxwell Fahie (C2 1995-2000) to Camilla Hicks Ben Wingent (PR 1995-2000) to Lauren Gould Sophia Barnes (PR 1998-2000) to Christopher Sobczynski Philippa Middleton (EL 1997-2002) to James Matthews Kate Guinness (NC 1998-2003) to Julian de Segundo (C2 1999-2004) Laura Pick (EL 1999-2004) to William Linley-Adams Molly Cowan (MO 2001-06) to William Taylor (PR 2001-06)
Chris Ridley (B1 2002-07) to Yasmeen Khatib James Cowper-Coles (SU 2004-09) to Carmen Hazas Gonzalez Richard Russell (B1 1943-48) and Carol celebrated their diamond wedding in September 2017. “Carol, bless her, will have coped with me for sixty years!”
Births To Michelle Jana Chan (TU 1990-92) and Mike Reeves (C1 1989-94), a son, Manta Time Chan, on 23 March 2017 To Andrew Cochrane (C3 1992-97) and Katrina, a daughter, Phoebe Catherine, on 20 June 2017
To Maxwell Fahie (C2 1995-2000) and Camilla, twin daughters, India Eloise and Alexia Sofia, on 7 September 2016 To Kitty Irby (EL 1997-2002) and Alexander Vine, a daughter, Cecily Mary Rose, on 29 April 2016 To Gavin M Gardner (PR 1998-2003) and his wife Lauren Leony, a son, Henry Albrecht, on 3 November 2016 To Clare Newcome-Evans (NC 19992004) and Dan, a daughter, Thea Loredana Lily Evans, on 12 September 2016 To Harry Vickers (SU 2000-05) and Emma, a son, William in March 2017
To Jon Wingent (PR 1992-1997) and Julia, a daughter, Iona, on 3 May 2017
To Georgie Bowes, née Cockcroft (EL 2000-2005) and Oli, a daughter, Ophelia Willow Olivia, in March 2017
To Naomi Kerbel (NC 1993-98) and Jack Ladenberg, a daughter, Emmeline Mary, on 20 February 2017
For more details of the above, please visit www.marlburianclub.org/ announcements The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Deaths Arthur Helps (C2 1934-38)
Michael Boddy (B2 1947-52)
Langdon Simons (PY 1937-38)
Howard Baveystock (CO 1947-52)
Angus Stewart (C2 1935-1939)
Simon Smallwood (B2 1950-52)
David Bett (B1 1936-40)
A Peter Keeling-Scott (B2 1948-53)
Christopher Studdert-Kennedy (C3 1935-41)
George Pitman (LI 1949-53)
Paul Aeron-Thomas (C3 1936-41)
Timothy Malcolm (B2 1949-54)
Robin Fletcher (C3 1936-41)
Peter Williams (LI 1949-54)
John ‘Toby’ Sewell (B2 1936-41)
Michael Hender (SU 1952-56)
Alan Hodson (B2 1937-41)
David Hinde (C2 1952-56)
Michael Barrett (B2 1937-42)
Robin Thain (SU 1953-56)
Hugh Birley (B1 1937-42)
David Rawlins (PR 1953 57)
Michael Hobkirk (PR 1938-42) John Clough (LI 1938-42) Ian Thomson (C3 1939-43)
Robert McBarnet (PR 1955-59) Charles Barber (LI 1957-61) Holger Batemen (previously Hartleib) (LI 1957-61)
Peter Russell (PR 1942-44)
Baird Oldrey (C2 1957-62)
Michael Studdert-Kennedy (C3 1940-45)
Michael Symes (B3 1957-62)
Hugh Day (PR 1940-45)
Vee King Shaw (CO 1958-62) see obituary
W Martin Hattersley (B3 1941-45)
Mark Sykes (PR 1959-63)
Patrick Featherstone-Godley (CO 1941-45)
Guy Houghton (C3 1960-64)
Alistair Campbell (LI 1942-45)
Jonathon Gurney (PR 1962-66)
Paul Ledger (B1 1941-46)
Charles Truman (PR 1962-66) see obituary
Christopher Pyemont (PR 1960-65)
Jeffrey Snell (C3 1943-47)
James Sabben-Clare (CR 1964-68) see obituary
David Mends (LI 1943-47)
Michael Beck (SU 1967-72)
Michael Williams (LI 1943-47)
Justin Swan (C2 1971-75)
David Nicholl-Griffith (C1 1944-47)
Laurence Ellis (CR 1955-77) see obituary
Christian Westmacott (B2 1943-48)
Matthew Fearn (B3 1978-82)
Richard Sneyd (B2 1944-48)
John Irwin (CR 1968-83)
Robin Leaf (C3 1945-49)
Julian Black (B2 1982-86)
Gareth Salisbury (CO 1945-49)
John Bateson (CR 1973-98) see obituary
Nicholas Monk (C2 1946-49) David de Gale (C2 1945-50) Henry Newton (B1 1946 -50) Harry Tennant (B1 1946-50) Peter Bewes (B2 1946-50)
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Richard Corben (LI 1953-57)
Michael Spackman (B2 1940-44)
Rodney Touche (SU 1942-46) see obituary
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Neil Marr (PR 1949-54)
Toby Grafftey-Smith (B3 1984-89) see obituary Martin Harrison (CR 1958-94) see obituary
Peter Davies (C3 1945-51)
Diana Vazquez (Support Staff 1990-2013)
John Rankin (PR 1947-51)
Ned Sells (PR 2014-16)
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Obituaries prose shone for its clarity and insight. Often the gold boxes that Charlie studied were studded with precious stones or embellished with pietre dure, enamel or miniature painting, and, by 26, he was already becoming a specialist in the field. Three major collections of gold boxes he wrote about were those of Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza in Lugano (1984); Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert in Los Angeles (1991); and the Wallace Collection in London (2013).
Charles Truman (PR 1962-66) harles Truman, who has died aged 67, was an eminent historian of the decorative arts. His work on gold boxes, most of them designed to hold snuff, showed that they were not merely rich men’s toys, but among the most remarkable achievements of 18thcentury craftsmanship.
C
He was born at Stratton Audley, Oxfordshire, to Kenneth Truman, a solicitor, and his wife Dorothy. Charlie, as he was affectionately known, chose the art world in which to forge a career rather than follow in the footsteps of his father, and his father before him.
Running the silver department at Christie’s in London, its Russian department, and that of objects of vertu – small, decorative pieces in precious materials – opened Charlie’s eyes to the art world from a new perspective. He moved from being a curator of art to selling it, and proved to be very good at that, too. He became a director of Christie’s and from 2000 an antique dealer and art consultant, while working still as historian. He was chairman from 2004 to 2005 of the British Antique Dealers’ Association. One of his proudest moments was to head Asprey’s antiques department in 1991, negotiating the sale that saved for
the nation the silver frames of the once bejewelled crowns worn by George I, George IV and Queen Adelaide, queen consort of William IV. For Charlie, scholarship was fun. He wore his learning lightly, his erudition always tinged with infectious enthusiasm and a mischievous sense of humour. He enjoyed cooking, travel and good company with his wife, Laura, whom he met in the late 1970s, when she was head of events at the V&A. They married in 1984 and set up home in Fulham, south-west London. Laura survives him, as do their children, Louise and Harry, and grandson, Otto.
Toby Grafftey-Smith (B3 1984-89) rowing up in Buckinghamshire, Toby’s musical ability was matched by a fascination with all things mechanical. Early experiments involved dismantling his father’s antique clocks with which he reassembled with
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Toby Grafftey-Smith (B3 1984-89)
Although, on leaving Marlborough College, he embarked on a law degree at Kent University, he left and enrolled in 1969 as an intern at the Victoria and Albert Museum. He thus started out on a fascinating journey of apprenticeship and connoisseurship through the decorative arts, in which, under expert guidance, he was able to handle and study a vast array of artefacts. From the furniture and woodwork department, he transferred to metalwork in 1971 and served as assistant keeper of ceramics from 1977 until he was headhunted by Christie’s in 1984. His legal background put him in good stead. He was blessed with an analytical mind and a gift with words, and his
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varying degrees of success. This quickly developed into stripping down motorcycles, before graduating to cars after finding an abandoned vehicle and persuading his mother to tow it home. After repairing and renovating the jalopy, he sold it to his boarding-school house matron. He earned a music scholarship to Marlborough. His musical ability manifested itself in his playing the organ in the College chapel and performing Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A minor with a full orchestra. He had started piano at the age of five and added viola and guitar as his tastes graduated from classical to jazz and rock, playing in a school group called The Purple Hoover. He was offered a place at Trinity College, Cambridge, to read architecture, but instead he opted for politics, philosophy and economics at Manchester University. He lasted two terms before dropping out to “spend more time studying raves and making chillums and bongs out of carrots”. After university, he spent ten years as Toby Smith, playing keyboards with the funk band Jamiroquai and co-writing hits such as Deeper Underground, Virtual Insanity and Canned Heat. Between 1992 and 2002, he recorded five albums with the band, three of which went to number one. Apparently, three months after meeting Jay Kay, they had signed a lucrative eight-album contract with Sony Records and four months later the group’s debut album, Emergency On Planet Earth, was at number one. “It was so easy. I only realised how lucky we were years later,” he said. After touring the world and recording five platinum-selling albums and 14 top 20 singles – all of which he claimed were written in no more than a quarter of an hour – he left the band to spend more time with his family and to pursue myriad interests. By then, he had a Grammy on the mantelpiece for Virtual Insanity. Not that such honours interested him; his mother noted his “total disregard for career plaudits” and after one pop prize ceremony, he carelessly left his award in the back of a taxi. 74
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He was less casual with the royalties from his million-selling albums and wisely invested his earnings in property. He reverted to his double-barrelled birth name and became a successful entrepreneur and a popular member of the hunting set in Northamptonshire, where he lived with his wife, Gabby Crewe-Read, who works as a theatre reviewer, and their three children Anastasia, Dylan and Rose. In the grounds of his home, he added a professional-standard mechanic’s garage, complete with hydraulic lifts to indulge his penchant for overhauling cars. In the outbuildings, he kept classic cars, vintage mowing machines and radio-controlled aircraft. During this time, he also went into business with the food writer William Sitwell and the artist Jasper Galloway to found 3Cs Cider, pressed and fermented using ‘traditional age-old techniques’. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2011 and his ongoing energy convinced many that he had beaten the disease. After his death, his eldest daughter poignantly posted on Facebook a clip of his first appearance on Top Of The Pops with Jamiroquai in 1993. It featured him performing a song he had written with Kay called Too Young To Die.
Rodney Touche (SU 1942-46) ake Louise in the Canadian Rockies is a jewel in a country awash with stunning scenery. The emerald green water, rugged peaks and stunning glaciers have long drawn visitors, among them Sir Norman Watson, a margarine tycoon and eccentric British skiing enthusiast, who controversially wanted to transform Lake Louise into the St Moritz of Canada — including shipping brown cows from Europe to make the area feel more Swiss.
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Sir Rodney Touche, a British baronet, journalist and adventurer was the man who Watson hoped would realise his vision. Rodney, who had been a regular skier at Lake Louise, became general manager of the resort in 1972 — the trailer park that housed the staff accommodation was affectionately known as
Touche Town. His 1990 book about the venture, Brown Cows, Sacred Cows was a bestseller in Canada. Rodney Gordon Touche was born in London in 1928, the son of Gordon Touche, who served as deputy speaker of the Commons and for whom the Touche baronetcy of Dorking was created in 1962. His mother, Ruby (née Macpherson), was from a family of colonial administrators in India, while his paternal grandfather was Sir George Touche, who founded the accountancy firm that would morph into Deloitte Touche and for whom the Touche baronetcy of Westcott was created in 1920. As a young man, Rodney enjoyed motorcycles and, in 1950, he spent four weeks chauffeuring a benevolent American on a 6,000-mile ride around Europe on an old Vincent motorcycle. Their journey only interrupted by a puncture at Pisa and colliding with a chicken in Venice. Later, he obtained his private pilot’s licence and co-owned a small Cessna, on one occasion flying it almost 4,000 miles from Calgary to Mustique. Rodney was educated at Marlborough and University College, Oxford, from where he had been expected to train as an accountant and join the family business. Instead, he became a reporter on the Evening Standard in London, where he met Ouida MacLellan, a Canadian journalist. They were married in 1955, with Ouida being ‘given away’ by Lord Beaverbrook, the paper’s proprietor. The couple emigrated to Canada in 1956, where Rodney joined the Financial Post in Toronto. They moved west to Calgary in 1961, where he wrote reports on the Canadian oil industry for an investment group; later, he invested his own money in Canadian drilling funds, making spectacular returns with the discovery of gas fields such as Liege. Alistair Thomson, who worked with him in Calgary, recalled being given a key for his first day at work and being told to entertain himself and answer the phones until Touche and Joe Vincent, his business partner, arrived. “The office was a two-bed apartment... with zebra skins on the walls and other skins on the floor,” Thomson recalled. “At about midday they arrived, massively pleased
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notable for leading massive changes to his family’s film exhibition and real-estate business in Singapore by redeveloping and upgrading Shaw Brothers’ single-screen theatres into modern multiplexes and commercial developments. Prior to his return to Singapore in 1981, Shaw was also involved in film production, distribution and exhibition in Hong Kong under his uncle, Sir Run Run Shaw.
Rodney Touche (SU 1942-46) and his Cessna
with themselves, and showed me the brown bear in the back of Joe’s truck. They had shot it that morning.” Meanwhile, Ouida was active in the arts, starting the annual Calgary Artwalk, serving as chairwoman of the Calgary Region Arts Foundation and presenting a weekly arts talk on CBC Radio. She died in 2009 and three years later Touche published Fierce Virgin, a collection of letters she had sent from London to her mother in New Brunswick. Their eldest daughter Mandy died in 2002 and Touche is survived by their three other children: Susan; Eric, who is a firstresponder on a pipeline in Alberta and inherits the baronetcy; and Karen, an academic at St Mary’s University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, who is the first qualified accountant in the family since Sir George. He formally retired from the management of Lake Louise in 1985, but re-emerged briefly in 1988 to serve as British attaché during the Winter Olympics in Calgary, where his main concern was balancing the training schedule with the media requests for Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards, the eccentric British ski-jumper. In 1972, the Touches acquired land on Mustique and built Pelican Beach, a villa where they spent many winters, often enjoying the company of Princess Margaret — though Oudia never revealed that she had once been a reporter in London on the hunt for royal gossip. Touche acquired a reputation as one of the best tennis players on the island, continuing to play into his
eighties. He served as chairman of the Mustique homeowners’ association and the couple’s driftwood sculpture garden was much admired. Tommy Hilfiger, the fashion designer and a neighbour, described them in his memoir as an “extraordinarily sweet and charming elderly couple”. They eventually sold Pelican Beach to Sir Mick Jagger, another island neighbour and friend. Touche, who travelled extensively throughout his life, rarely used his title, though he did tell friends that it came in handy when securing visas and at immigration desks.
Vee King Shaw (CO 1958-1962) ee passed away peacefully in Singapore aged 73 on 13 July 2017. The eldest son of Tan Sri Dr Runme Shaw and his wife Peggy, Vee is
A contributing member of society, he was a Justice of the Peace, a council member of the Shaw Foundation, Chairman and later Advisor to the National Fire Prevention and Civil Emergency Council, and a founding member of the International SeaKeepers Society. In 2002, he was made an Honorary Fellow of the Singapore Academy of Medicine, and, in 2004, he was awarded Singapore’s Public Service Star for his numerous contributions. Whilst at Marlborough, he excelled in boxing and was infamous for being picked up by his housemaster as he was hitchhiking back to school from Swindon where he had just caught a movie. An early indicator of his passion for the movie industry! An avid fisherman, scuba diver and sailor, Shaw once landed a 280lb Queen Mackerel, one of the largest ever recorded, whilst skin diving off the waters of Hong Kong in 1979. He is survived by his mother; wife, Linda, and his three children, Markham (CO 1982-1987), Howard (CO 1988-1990) and Nicola.
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Martin Harrison (CR 1958-94) first met Martin at Berkhamsted School in 1958, where he had taken a one-year appointment, as physics teacher and games coach, on leaving the RAF. We quickly became good friends – and have remained so for 59 years.
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Martin owed something to his mother for her judgement in selecting as her lodger, Anna, who attracted particular attention from Martin. They were soon married and had over 50 years of happiness, love and support together. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Martin was above all a man of faith; so modest and unassuming was he, that you might not have noticed. It was this, that drove his life over so many decades and, above all, it was this that united him with his beloved Anna.
Having quickly established himself as a thoughtful, innovative teacher of physics, Martin – always incredibly modest and the most approachable of mentors – was held in high esteem by pupils and colleagues alike. He memorably showed great enthusiasm designing, constructing and testing a solar panel in his laboratory that, not unsurprisingly, aroused great interest in both pupils and colleagues. To cap a distinguished career, he spread his ideas to a wider audience by co-authoring a book with other members of the physics department. As one would expect of him, he took great care to write as clearly as possible. Understated – sometimes, wrongly under-valued, but conscientious to a fault. Always interested in new ideas and new methods, Martin soon became heavily involved in the new Design Technology Centre, in which he ran courses in Alternative Technology. His greatest contribution to Design Technology was, however, within the realms of electronics where his genuine expertise, patience and support saw so many pupils through their GCSE coursework assignments. While at school, Martin was a key member of the XV, captain of cricket and champion gymnast. Success also followed at Oxford on the games field and Fives Court. He narrowly missed out on a blue as a skilful scrum-half, with a wondrous reverse pass, and as a wicket keeper, but won a half-blue for 76
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Fives. At Marlborough, his skills as a games coach were quickly recognised, and he helped coach the XV. The culmination of that combination being the production of that famed team of 1963. As Martin said at one of the wellattended reunion dinners, “It was the year, when the team arrived unbeaten at the last match, and by the final whistle, the Sherborne coach had already walked out and Marlborough ended the season unbeaten – and with not one try scored against them.” Martin was a man of drop-dead, deadpan humour; irretrievably modest, deceptively casual – but utterly on the ball; a master of the wicked one-liner and quite a joker! After his cricket team had fielded badly on a rough outfield, he said: “Get down behind the ball – you may lose a few teeth but you’ll have saved four runs.”
was another important part of his life. He sang in choirs at Marlborough and beyond, played the piano – and occasionally the organ – and was fascinated by the link between music and mathematics. During his 22 years at Marlborough, he taught many generations of aspiring mathematicians, specialising particularly in preparing pupils for Oxbridge, and played a key role in setting up the School Mathematics Project, which revolutionised the teaching of A level Maths. Indeed, the textbooks were still in use well into the 1990s until the modular model was established. Outside the classroom, he was heavily involved in the CCF, athletics, the beagles and rugby. Legend has it that, on one occasion, when a colleague failed to show up, he refereed two rugby matches simultaneously.
A good example of his love of his fellow human beings and his desire to help as much and as many as he could, is illustrated by his volunteering to be a Samaritan. For many years, he regularly manned his telephone overnight to listen to victims of domestic violence, or those contemplating suicide, and responded with sympathy and compassion. Brian Williams (CR 1962-94)
Laurence Ellis (CR 1955-77) EE arrived at Marlborough College in 1955 to teach Mathematics after doing National Service with the Green Jackets and reading Mathematics at Trinity College, Cambridge. Before that, he had won a Scholarship to Winchester College, where he excelled in Mathematics, Classics and crosscountry running and rowing amongst other sports. It was at school that he developed a passion for solving cryptic crosswords, completing The Times crossword in the ten-minute gap between breakfast and Chapel. He took on this challenge, always against the clock, every day for nearly 70 years and woe betide anyone, be they wife, child, colleague or pupil who interrupted this morning ritual. Music
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His astonishingly logical and creative mind was put to good use when he was asked to take on the difficult matter of writing the school timetable. He ripped up the rulebook in this area and devised a system – written in Greek symbols – which revolutionised the time-tabling process. His model was used by many schools until the (seemingly less logical) computer systems became prevalent many years later. He was the Resident House Tutor in Summerfield when it was attached to the Sani – and, more importantly, when a young nurse by the name of Elizabeth Ogilvie arrived, romance soon blossomed and they were married in the College Chapel in 1961. Together they
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were a very strong team and she played a crucial role pastorally when he was appointed housemaster of C1 in 1968. He ran the house with genuine compassion and understanding and instilled the boys in his care with a strong moral code and a sense of service to others. He took immense care over his boys, even driving one of his heads of house to his home so that he could vote in his first General Election. It was inevitable that such an able man was at some point going to leave Marlborough to take up a Headmastership. This he did in 1977, when he took up the post of Rector of The Edinburgh Academy, a job he did with distinction until his retirement in 1992. Retirement brought him back to Wiltshire and they settled in Devizes. He continued to teach maths in various schools and very much enjoyed his role as a Governor at Monkton Combe, Downe House and Clayesmore Schools. He became a Lay Reader before he was married and preached in churches and schools throughout his adult life. He was a Deanery Treasurer and was secretary of a local charity. His sermons always had a razor-sharp message and were delivered with the great dry sense of humour, which anyone fortunate enough to have known this extraordinary man will remember fondly.
end, devoting much time to the complex paperwork involved. His sudden passing leaves a huge gap in the lives of his many friends in the town and ex-pupils far afield.
James Sabben-Clare (CR 1964-68) ames Sabben-Clare was one of the most widely gifted schoolmasters of his generation. Outwardly reserved and afflicted, in his youth, with a stammer so pronounced that his teachers hesitated to question him, he shone as classical scholar, author, actor, sportsman, carpenter and cabaret artiste. His cool mind was matched by a warm heart. As an affectionate family man, he always had time for his two children of whom he was enormously and justly proud.
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which he organised. Under his direction, the weekly News Sheet was transformed from a dry, internal chronicle into a vehicle for campaigning, and sometimes controversial, journalism that was a nursery for some professionals today. On taking very early retirement in 1998, due to medical problems, he threw himself into activities in the town. Most notable was his work in the late-lamented Tourist Information Centre, where a trio of volunteers provided such splendid service. John also worked with St John’s School giving support to the Extended Learning and Year 10 interview projects. In Swindon, he worked on school appeals panels right up to the
He won the top scholarship to Winchester, was a scholar at New College, Oxford, where he gained a double first in Greats and was elected a Visiting Fellow of All Souls. With the world at his feet, he decided to become a schoolmaster, first at Marlborough and then, from the age of 27, at Winchester.
James Sabben-Clare (CR 1964-68)
Sadly, his last few years were marred by the onset and progress of Parkinson’s Disease. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and their three children, Jonathan (C3 1975-80), Mary and Simon (CR 1993-2017).
John Bateson (CR 1973-98)
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ohn came to Marlborough in 1973 as a teacher of German at the College, becoming the first head of that language. Always outward-looking, he set up an exchange programme that spread A level students round Germany for a whole term. He was a gifted amateur musician and used his many talents to the full: conducting, singing and accompanying, and there are vivid memories of the first choir tour abroad, The Marlburian Club Magazine
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He spent the rest of his career there as Head of Classics, Second Master and then as Headmaster. His family included several generations of actors, and he had a deep love of the theatre and of music. He was a superb writer of lyrics for all occasions and in all styles. He owed much to his wife, Mary, whose intelligence, sense of fun and generous hospitality made such a warm contribution when he was at Winchester.
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Mike had a tremendous sense of humour and made friends quickly. He prided himself on the fact that former Master, Edward Gould (Master 1993-2004), would ask his opinion of some of the more
demanding boys who came out hunting. Ozzy formed tremendous relations with neighbouring farmers and keepers, and managed to gain access to several estates formerly closed to beagling.
Mike ‘Ozzy’ Osman (1998-2005) ike (Ozzy) Osman was the last kennel huntsman to be employed by the College. Ozzy left the College in May 2005 having worked there for seven years. He was totally dedicated and thoroughly professional, and maintained an immaculate pack of hounds. He trained many students to care for and hunt the beagles.
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Letters to the Editor Dear Madam... Dear Madam, Reading Oliver Nicholson’s (B2 196468) article on the College beagles in the 2016 magazine (Issue 117) brought back many memories as I was Master of Hounds and Huntsman circa 1956-57. Exercising hounds, feeding them with swill from the kitchens, and then the un-delightful mucking out of kennels in the acrid air of their sleeping quarters all added to an unforgettable experience. Like Oliver, we became adept at skinning stillborns and then brewing up the carcasses in the kennel boiler. On at least two holidays, I had to stay on at College to look after the hounds, staying with Percy (CR 1953-61) and Sylvia Hayman (Percy was the College Chaplain), and then with Tubby (CR 1936-63) and Mrs Middleton at Barton Hill. I remember with gratitude their hospitality and friendship. The pack was much smaller in my time, 16 couple at the most and, even then, there was pressure from Tommy Hunter (School Medical Officer 1947-71) to reduce the size of the pack. That meant putting hounds down either by shotgun or by asking the local vet to visit the kennels, something I never liked as these hunting dogs had that warmth of affection that Marlborough lacked in those days.
Oliver’s article certainly revived old memories and I do thank him.
and over time he somehow begged, borrowed and was given more hounds.
George Coppen (Upcot 1953, SU 1953-57)
After hunting, we often retired to a hostelry at the far end of town where a friendly landlord would warn us of any Beaks who might wander in. If anyone asked where we were, we were looking for a hound that was missing. We got back into house by means of a bottomfloor window that we had left ajar earlier in the day.
Dear Madam, I recently received a copy of a picture from The Hound magazine showing the Marlborough Beagles celebrating their 65th anniversary. I was 16 when my friend, James Bouskell (B1 1948-53), asked me if I would help in the kennels. This I did as well as following the hounds over many acres of downs. James was the instigator of the founding of the beagles. We started with around four couples that he had recruited from other packs around the county. It was James who took the hounds home during the holidays
It was all great fun and well done to those who have kept the pack going. Tom Morley (B1 1949-52)
Dear Madam, To add a little to your coverage of OMs in the Great War, you might be interested in this attachment.
The Times article on Ramsay Chase (LI 1876-78) © News Syndication
We had an old army vehicle plus a trailer for hounds to get to our meets. Laurence Ellis (CR 1955-77) kindly drove the truck, which was fairly primitive as the gears could only be changed by double-declutching. I learned to drive on that vehicle, courtesy, or otherwise, of the College groundsmen! Being Master of Beagles did not excuse me from the CCF, but games requirements were relaxed. I never followed up hunting on leaving school other than to whip-in to the Ravelston Beagles, in Midlothian, in 1957-58. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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My grandfather, Ramsay Chase (LI 1876-78), was in charge of the Royal Berkshire Regiment depot, because he was too old to go to the Western Front. Apart from his main job in recruitment, he was President of a Military Court in Maidenhead trying escaped German POWs. The Times published a piece about the case of two escaped POWs on 1 February 1916, and it was reproduced on 2 February 2016. It so happens that I still have my grandfather’s letter to my grandmother, enclosing the same cutting and saying they ‘were very nice young fellows and I was very sorry for them’. When I told The Times, they published my response in their Feedback column! Malcolm Chase (LI 1955-59)
Dear Madam, I had five very happy years at Marlborough from 1953 to 1957 and was fortunate to have Tommy Garnett (CR 1952-61) as Master, ‘Cogs’ (F.L. Coggin) (CR 1926-62) as my Summerfield housemaster, Lionel ‘Wiggy’ Gough (CR 1940-59) my English teacher, Ivo Payne (CR 1942-76) for French, and Dennis Silk (CR 1955-68) for History – remarkable men. My father, Trevor Victor Noel Anderson, was in B1 from 1921-26 and he was followed by his three brothers. Sadly, my father died some ten days after being liberated from a Japanese P.O.W. camp in Borneo. His name is on the board in the Memorial Hall. In 1950, I was at Cordwalles Prep school in South Africa when my mother received notification from Marlborough that an anonymous donor, whose son had been killed in action in 1942 in the Battle of the Barents Sea, had bequeathed a sum of money sufficient to help educate every son of every Old Marlburian who had died in the War. My attendance at Marlborough was due to this benefactor and, in my case, my five years at Marlborough were totally free of charge. Now, nigh on 60 years later, I have discovered that it was the Eric Marland 80
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Trust that enabled me to experience a Marlborough education. Unfortunately, I have let the matter rest for too long and Eric’s descendants cannot be found; I had hoped to have been able to thank them. I am sure that many others benefited from the generosity of Eric’s family who established the bursary fund. The story has a remarkable ending. Not being able to afford university fees, in 1958 I returned to Africa and spent five years in the police in the two Rhodesias. In late 1963, I received notification that my services would no longer be required in the future; Zambia, Northern Rhodesia was about to receive independence. I thus wrote to the Headmaster of my old prep school enquiring about a possible teaching post. I explained that I was a C.I.D. officer, could ride horses and motorbikes, drive Land Rovers and three-ton trucks, but I had had a Marlborough education. Almost by return post, I received a letter offering me the position of Head of the English Department! Some 20 years later, when I was Headmaster of a prep school in Johannesburg, I chatted to the man who had, I thought, taken a risk in employing me unknown and unskilled. “It wasn’t a risk at all, David. I knew that with your Marlborough education behind you, you were the safest of bets.” Thank you, once again to the Eric Marland Trust. David Anderson (SU 1953-57)
Dear Madam, I was delighted to see in the 2016 edition a letter and corresponding photo regarding the CCF at Marlborough and reference made to Willie Shaw, my maternal grandfather. For clarification, he was Willie Shaw RSM and joined MC in 1938 until his retirement in 1955. In 1915, he joined the newly formed machine-gun corps and was involved in testing the first tank prototype. A survivor of WW1 despite being wounded twice in France, he ended the
war in Salonica as a Machine Gun Instructor. A member of the King’s 100 at Bisley, he was an excellent shot and won many competitions. After the war, he became a Small Arms Instructor at Netheravon before joining Marlborough. He was awarded an MBE for his services to the CCF and the Home Guard in 1944. He was introduced to the King and Queen when they visited Marlborough and the College in 1948. He became Captain of Wiltshire Home Guard in Marlborough and at well over 6ft 3ins, in uniform, was a well-known and imposing figure as he walked Marlborough High Street. He was also secretary and a very successful member of Marlborough Rifle Club and a Freemason. After his retirement from Marlborough, he kept in close contact with many of the old boys, many of whom were frequent visitors. He particularly liked to hear news from the boys who visited during their community service when they often assisted him with gardening duties. He was born in York in 1890 and was not a man to suffer fools gladly. He was immensely proud of the CCF and the College. Willie worked with Colonel Harling and from letters it is evident they had mutual respect. It was a strange quirk of fate that, in 1965, Colonel Harling tried to teach me physics (without great success) when I joined Chippenham Grammar, and he had started a teaching career after Marlborough. Willie delighted in recalling memories of the College, people and incidents, and was immensely proud of his connection. He died in Marlborough, three months before his 95th birthday in 1985. My eldest son, Jonathan Newman, joined Marlborough as an Outdoor Instructor, and we would both be delighted to learn more from others that have a connection with the CCF between 1938 and 1955 and, of course, Willie Shaw. Jonathan would be a good point of contact, please email him at jnn@marlboroughcollege.org Helen Newman
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1800s
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1900s
Today
Investigations on the hill figure, which took place over the course of 2015, were generously jointly funded by Marlborough College and North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Research was concentrated on the slopes of Granham Hill and through an examination of photographic albums held in the College archive.
Marlborough College has effectively been de facto custodian of the horse for at least the past 120 years. An oral history project carried out among Marlborough residents a few years ago identified the great grandfather of David Rogers, who was responsible for maintaining the horse for almost 30 years until his death in 1917. Mr Rogers was paid an annual retainer of £5 by William Bambridge, College organist (1864-1911). More recently, maintaining the hill figure was wonderfully illustrated by Mick Hutton (C3 1942-46) who, as one of a group of Upper Fifth boys, cleaned the horse on VE Day 1945 (see Members’ News, 8 May 2013).
The results of the investigations have revealed fresh insights into the development of the hill-figure’s shape over the latter half of the 19th century. In addition, various survey techniques have together provided a clearer picture of how the horse was constructed – an event believed to have taken place in the early 19th century.
In an effort to track when and how the horse was cleaned, maintained and more generally integrated into College life, would OMs who were involved with any activities on or involving the Marlborough white horse please send in their memories to the Marlburian Club on marlburianclub@marlboroughcollege.org
With an eye to its future sustainability, the hill-figure’s outline was, for the first time, accurately recorded using GPS equipment providing a benchmark from which future changes in its shape can be accurately recorded; indeed, the investigations have highlighted the extent to which the horse has radically changed in its appearance and character over the past 100 years.
Garry Gibbons Marlborough White Horse Project Lead
Dear Madam, Following the publication of a paper on the Marlborough white horse hill figure in the recent volume of the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Magazine, I would like to put a ‘callout’ to OMs through the magazine.
Dear Madam, Congratulations on the idea of a Celebratory School Walk that was held in September 2017 and which was
almost entirely on footpaths that cross the Marlborough Downs. I wonder if the instigators realise some of the historical precedents? Marlburians roamed the countryside in the 1840s and on into the 1940s. William Morris knew the area and his coming to know it, and the churches, led him to be involved as a pioneer in the environment, and the preservation of our churches – which led to the National Trust. When Marlborough landed the two Balliol Scholarships circa 1850, the whole school (around 200 boys) walked the eight miles to meet the coach at Barbury Castle with the two Scholars from Oxford, and brought them back to Marlborough. This put the school on the scholastic map. Two geography Beaks wrote Marlborough Country, which all new boys read in the 1930s and 1940s, and we knew from our cycles as we were allowed to walk/cycle within ten miles without permission. But we could travel as far as St Mary’s Calne for tennis, and to Stonehenge for the Summer Solstice without permission. The booklet Together rightly advertised the town. Years ago, without cars, and then without petrol during the War, Marlburians really knew our countryside. Richard Russell (B1 1943-48)
In last year’s magazine (issue 116), there was a query about a photo from the previous year’s magazine (issue 115). Initially, it was thought to be Lionel ‘Wiggy’ Gough. It has now been clarified that it is Alan Whitehorn (CR 194559). Due to the number of letters and the many incredibly nice things written about Alan, I’m unable to reproduce them here and so they have been put onto the Marlburian Club website www.marlburianclub.org Editor The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Looking Ahead A search for a new Master is all sorts of things, it is a make-or-break challenge to a Council and its Chairman. Get it wrong and it’s all you will be remembered for. It’s an exhausting and emotionally taxing undertaking because, unlike many other commercial and professional appointments I and my colleagues may be involved in, there is a sense this really matters. There is no correction that can undo the harm of a bad choice. not see it as a trade-off with the cocurricular full-boarding experience of the College. As several candidates found their own words to say – it’s the really busy students who race from drama, to the playing field, to their homework who thrive and excel in each of these activities. Equally, they all spoke of how a diversity of intake through bursary support was critical to maintaining the social richness of the school. All agreed children learnt a lot less from each other if there was too much homogeneity of background and income. A school needs to mirror, as much as is possible, the world for which it is preparing its students.
Several year groups of Marlburians will have been shortchanged if they end up spending a good part of their Marlborough years under the leadership of somebody who doesn’t inspire and guide the school towards getting the most out of every boy and girl. Ensuring that quality of guidance to young lives in formation is a burden of responsibility much greater than most recruitments. The selection is also, though, a remarkable focus into trends in the world of education. As some of you will have already read, we had more than 20 serving school heads apply, which is a tribute to the respect Marlborough is held in by its peers. As the candidates filed through, common concerns and priorities became clear. There was no doubt, for example, that Marlborough is not the only school racing to build up bursaries or weighing the opportunities and risks of further international experience. Most of our finalists came from schools that are also focused on getting the best classroom results from students. Reassuringly, these heads do 82
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In the week of the final interviews, a number of the finalists had spent time at a conference of boarding-school heads where new research had been presented that showed that boarding school gives children an edge in making them better members of a team. It leaves them better equipped with the social skills to operate in a networked world where sharing, respect and the ability to get on with others appears to be at a new premium. Inevitably, the very quality of those we interviewed reflected the insights they offered us, meaning we were in that lucky place of being able to choose between a number of very fine candidates. As you know, we have chosen Marlborough’s first woman Master, Louise Moelwyn-Hughes (CR 1992-2005). Well able to get along in a predominantly man’s world in her past – Louise was one of the first women at one of Cambridge’s last male bastions Magdalene College – she was never in any doubt that she is to be called “Master”. There was to be no politically correct feminising of the title or not at least without a cost to tradition, which I suspect we would all regret. And, indeed among the Old Marlburians at the
Malloch-Brown kitchen table, it was noted that the current Master of the Queen’s Music is a woman. We listened in the interviews to the complexities and challenges of reinventing education. We reflected on how Marlborough should retain and deepen its relevance in the midst of turbulent political and economic upheaval, at a time when a technology revolution is sweeping across the workplace disrupting old employment and creating new kinds of jobs. All of this left us with a huge sense of excitement and anticipation that Louise was the right leader for the Marlborough community. We were, and continue to be, convinced that she would offer both a dynamic vision and a necessary element of reinterpretation of a Marlborough education for new times.
Mark Malloch-Brown (C1 1967-71) Chairman of Governors and the former Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations
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The Master’s Review (UK) As the final year of a career looms, and the realisation dawns that three headships add up to 25 years, it is time to look forward with some reflections of advanced hindsight. There is no need for nostalgia; rather just a few challenges based on experience either side of the Atlantic. Education, about which all feel passionately, is destined to remain a whirlpool of perpetual discussion. So, what is good, what causes anxiety, and where might it all go? The vocational nature of leadership should carry the proviso that it is often lonely and that it is difficult. For the future, there are three key concerns that accompany the now unusual phenomenon of full co-educational boarding. Firstly, there is accountability in a world of assessment and measurement. Next comes accessibility, that undeniable need to share opportunity far wider. Thirdly, and this can only grow, there is a need to understand just how vital creativity is for the future; the right-brained thinking that can be the product of a powerful curriculum, and the accompanying extras which a great school must provide. The best of today sees positive partnership, as opposed to patronage, between independent and state schools – shared facilities and practice, the development of mutual respect that benefits both sectors warming to the theme of merged practice. Hence, the advent of the Grammar Stream at Swindon Academy with Marlborough College underpinning it came well in advance of the Government’s white paper last September. It is a prime example of a state/private initiative, just one of the many. Ever-increasing commitment to bursary is also encouraging, despite the high-end sums required; it is good to emphasise Marlborough’s foundational roots. Internationally, huge strides have been made. There can be no doubt that in an age where distance is dead, those who take the chance to teach abroad are indelibly strengthened through diverse opportunity. Working in different jurisdictions, developing empathy for alternative approaches or curricula systems, and realising that education is something broad not confined, is challenged as soon as one sets foot abroad. Balancing the best of such an adventure demands a creative
open-minded approach. Marlborough College Malaysia will soon be close to 1,000 pupils. The thirst for our style of education in Johor Bahru has clearly caught on and, as Bob Pick hands on the bâton of Mastership to Alan Stevens, so a new era will build on the remarkable platform established. The curriculum ebbs and flows. Today’s colleagues have much to be wary about. The time-table is so congested that there is little space to teach ethics and morals. All are alarmed by issues with the social media and the pace of change is daunting. Sitting in front of the screen can so often lead to a suspension of basic decency yet, simultaneously, we have to maximise the benefits it bestows. Social media has changed language and the way children see the world. It is as though society requires a new code of conduct so that harmful misuse does not prevail. In an embattled age, the whole question of leadership and understanding the servant/leader notion of such responsibility is fundamental. Example comes from the top, but it will never work to full effect if it is constrained by the confines of entitlement.
Lastly, one thing has never changed and this gives colossal hope: adolescents are essentially optimistic; they are full of talent. Today’s youngsters are less prejudiced and more principled, with a healthy respect for those of different backgrounds and beliefs. Such a realisation gives one infinite hope of a bright new dawn. When education is complete, the one thing that is essential in schools is to build personality, develop character, train resilience, and promote courage through the attitudes inculcated. The youth of tomorrow do know this and, for the most part, are ready to contend with the complexities of an anguished world. It remains our calling to draw out self-belief and enable the next generation to have the confidence to articulate their views with integrity.
Jonathan Leigh Master (2012-) The Marlburian Club Magazine
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The Master’s Review (Malaysia) Our minds have a surprising ability to deceive us in terms of how long ago something took place. I retain a vivid and clear memory of teaching my first Chemistry lesson at the College to Hundred Set 3 in Laboratory C3 on, I think, Wednesday 10 September 1980 and walking back to the Resident House Tutor’s flat in Preshute after lunch. Yes, it seems a long time ago, but in the chronology of my teaching career, it does not seem to be that distant. When asked ten years ago to keep an eye on possible overseas development for the College, I never envisaged living and working in Malaysia for the last years of my career. Those early days of 2007 seem very distant and, in some respects, further away than 1980, but since the opening of the school in August 2012 the time has passed so rapidly that 2012 now seems like only yesterday. It is all too easy to forget the palm-oil plantation that covered the ninety-acre site, particularly when you see the magnificent facilities and mature landscape around the campus. It is hard to believe the College is only five years old; visually, it could be ten or twenty years.
“My wife, Ali, and I have had our lives enriched by the experience in a way I could not have believed possible when it was first mooted that we might relocate...”
What has been achieved over that period? From a starting cohort of 350 pupils, who entered the College on 27 August 2012, we have grown steadily year on year and finished 2016-17 with 840 pupils, with the expectation of a further increase next year. In terms of admissions to the College, we do not have the luxury of waiting lists as yet (and will struggle to do so until the Iskandar region develops more strongly) and therefore remain a recruiting school rather than a selective school. This inevitably means that our academic performance will reflect a lower percentage of A*/A grades than the College in Wiltshire. However, despite having a non-selective cohort, the pupils have achieved strongly with an average of 60% A*/A grades at IGCSE and an average of 35 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, against a world average of 30 points.
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We have been delighted with these performances and, as every school governing body becomes ever-more obsessed with increasing academic attainment, there may be lessons to be learnt from Asia. Marlborough Malaysia punches well above its weight academically for the simple reason that the work ethic of the pupil body is much stronger than anything I ever experienced in Wiltshire. As a consequence, there is a genuine thirst for knowledge and an understanding that success in life is not an entitlement. This view is promulgated strongly by the Asian pupils and also by a good number of pupils with expatriate parents. The Asian work ethic, particularly the Chinese, is well known, but I have been pleased to see hard-working Western pupils, too. Many expatriate families come to Asia for a few years, work phenomenally hard to gain their rewards and, I am pleased to say, expect the same of their children. Almost inevitably, there will be a few underperformers, but it is interesting to see how many of these are swept up by the driven approach of the majority. It has a remarkably positive effect on the results in respect of the average innate ability of the pupils. One challenge which will, I fear, continue is the movement within Common Room. We have been fortunate to attract a good number of applicants for each advertised position but the turnover rate is currently around twice that of the UK school. Whilst renewal is good and does lead to a younger Common Room, there are moments when too many good people move after two or three years. I would, however, encourage beaks at Marlborough,
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and indeed any teacher reading this article, to consider a period of time in Malaysia. My wife, Ali, and I have had our lives enriched by the experience in a way I could not have believed possible when it was first mooted that we might relocate. Our eyes have been opened by living and working with different cultures, beliefs and faiths, and this has asked questions of what we really stand for and what life is about. I suspect I could easily have been accused of not looking beyond the gates of Court, or certainly not beyond the end of Marlborough High Street, before coming to Malaysia. I think we now have a much more balanced, reflective view of society and only regret not taking a leap of faith such as this earlier in our careers. It has been a truly magnificent experience. And what for the future? I very much hope to see MCM reaching a full capacity of around 1,200 in the next five years and this will allow it to become more selective. I hope we are able to find money for scholarships to widen access, and we would like much greater exchange between pupils and beaks of the two institutions.
As for me; once I’ve tried to get the golf handicap back to single figures (highly unlikely), there will be time to provide educational consultancy for schools looking to take their brand overseas. I would love to think there will be other Marlboroughs around the world in addition to Wiltshire and Malaysia. As John Lennon is quoted as saying: “Life is what happens to you when you are busy making other plans.” When I joined Marlborough, I never envisaged retiring from the same institution 37 years later and certainly would never have seen myself running a school in Malaysia. It has been a privilege to be associated with the College.
Robert Pick Master (2012-2017)
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Academic Results and College Admissions 2017 Academic Results he College celebrated another strong set of public examinations results this year, against a backdrop of uncertainly and volatility in national awarding.
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At A level and Pre-U, one in every six entries was awarded an A* grade, with nine pupils achieving A* grades in three or more subjects. All those pupils holding Oxbridge offers achieved them; all bar one of our medical applicants also made it through (the one who just missed out will surely end up a doctor – she is far too talented not to). The average UCAS points score for our leavers was 142 (for comparison, three A grades has a points score of 144). With a widely publicised drop in the number of top grades awarded
College Admissions or Shell entry, the College uses an assessment system that seeks to select children with academic, sporting, and artistic appetites and abilities that suggest they will make the most of their time at Marlborough. The process relies mainly on interviews at the school and reports from the head of the applicant’s current school. If you are interested in sending your child to the College, please contact the Admissions Secretary, Louise Smith, on 01672 892 302 in the first
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nationally in the first tranche of the more rigorous, newly-linear qualifications – which, for Marlborough, includes Art, Business, Economics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Psychology – the fact that 84% of our pupils made it into their choice of university (up on the last few years) speaks volumes about the strength of these results, and the talent and hard work of the pupils who achieved them. At GCSE, 37% of our entries were awarded A* grades. 14 pupils achieved A* grades in ten or more subjects – of these, Arabella Harris (MO) and Nick Rusinov (SU) achieved 12 A* grades – and one in five pupils achieved at least 8 A* grades (our internal yardstick for a realistic application to Oxbridge and other elite courses and universities).
instance, indicating that you are an OM so that this can be taken into account at the time of assessment.
Scholarships and Exhibitions A wide variety of scholarships and exhibitions are available to all children (whether offspring of an OM or not) at 13+ and 16+ entry. Details of all such awards, including values, dates, qualifications and examination procedures, may be obtained from the Director of Admissions, Julia Hodgson. The Scholarship Booklet may also be viewed online at www.marlboroughcollege.org The Marlburian Club Charitable Trust makes funds available for various purposes but most commonly assists OMs with a child at the College who experiences unexpected hardship. It also gives grants to College leavers pursuing GAP Year projects involving an element of service
While much of this success is down to innate ability and sheer determination (and usually both) from the pupils concerned, much praise must be given to their Beaks – academic and pastoral – for their guidance, inspiration, cajoling and care. These pupils (and their immediate successors) are living through the biggest change to the public examinations landscape for decades – with tougher, linear A levels now phasing in, and with a switch to numerical grades at GCSE, and the almost-inevitable clamour for the new grade 9 – the A**, if you will. Our pupils have, so far, shown great resilience in coping with these changes, and they will, no doubt, continue to do so, en route to academic success. Jaideep Barot (CR 2014-) Deputy Head (Academic)
to others. The Marlborough Children of Clergy Fund, in accordance with the intentions of the College’s founders, assists ordained members of the Church of England (whether OMs or not) to send their children to the College. To apply to either The Marlburian Club Charitable Trust or The Children of Clergy Fund, please contact Peter Bryan, Deputy Master and Director of Corporate Resources, on 01672 892 390 or pnb@marlboroughcollege.org
Can you offer a work placement or internship? The Guidance Department is keen to support sixth formers and young OMs taking their first steps towards a career. If you think you or your organisation may be able to offer work experience or internships, please contact Guy Nobes in the Guidance Department who will be delighted to give you more information: egn@marlboroughcollege.com
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Valete Peter Ford (CR 1988-2017) eter Ford appears to be nothing if not paradoxical. He is a man who aspires to all the refinements of high-table dining at Oxford colleges, yet chooses to spend his weekends on the terraces at soccer matches with the ‘mindless’ masses. He professes to embrace the edicts of the One, True Church without question; yet questions all forms of secular authority with the greatest vigour and enthusiasm. He insists sternly on the highest standards of professional rigour, yet is the first to offer a sympathetic ear and warm understanding to any colleague or student who is struggling to meet those high standards. The workings of his character are difficult to fathom, but the interest he has added to the lives of many, young and old, over the 29 years of his career in the History Department at Marlborough surely make this modest attempt to plumb some of the depths worthwhile.
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Peter was raised in south-east London, not that far from the home ground of his beloved Crystal Palace. His career as an historian began in earnest at ‘the R.C. Grammar in Sidcup’, where he was taught 19th-century history by Peter St. John Ribbins. In a class of boys addressed only as “Cretin” by this master, young Ford was soon singled out to be addressed as “Ford”. Another master, Wriothesley Russell, a scion of the great House of Bedford, enjoined the young Ford to challenge every orthodoxy and question all received wisdom. Peter then progressed to Keble College, Oxford, under the expert tutelage of Paul Hayes, with whom he shared a great love of cricket. Peter was also tutored by Denis Mack Smith on the history of modern Italy. Peter decided on a career in school mastering. He does not accept that he is a teacher, and will gladly explain to anybody the important difference he sees between these two descriptions of his profession. He has maintained over many years close connections with academic historians at Cambridge, such as John Adamson, and Michael Broers at Oxford.
In addition, Peter has orchestrated very numerous visits of interesting academic lecturers, such as Leslie Mitchell, Joanna Bourke and Ronald Hutton, to name but a few. Peter has made direct access to such eminent intellectuals possible for generations of pupils at the College. He has supervised the academic careers of a very great number of successful applicants to Oxbridge colleges, and to a great many other universities. He has recently been invited to meet again with the group of six pupils who left his 6th Form in 1996 to study Oxbridge history. He had taught five of them in Shell, then again in the Upper School; and four of them gained First Class degrees. One asked to become his godson. It is hard to know which fact makes Peter most proud. Peter believes passionately that reading improves understanding and writing of history. His room, with its wall-to-ceiling wood-panelling and traditional furniture is admired still by visiting Old Marlburians and prospective parents alike. He has spent much of his uncommitted time looking after the books in the Garnett Room. In an age dominated by insubstantial sound bites and the ‘virtual’ superficiality of ‘screens’, Peter has tried tirelessly to engender profound affection and respect for ‘real’ reading in the young. He insists that the true job of an historian is to imagine as correctly as possible what those in the
past really felt and thought as the events being studied unfolded around them. Apart from reading about topics, many puzzled young people have been handed a bizarre piece of headwear in Peter’s classroom (25-year-old confiscated baseball caps were the most notoriously unsavoury items) and then been told to think consistently from the point of view of a Marxist, or of a ‘sans culottes’, or of some other interested party ‘whilst wearing that hat’ in order to get closer to the historical action and understand what motivated it better. Peter’s career as a schoolmaster began at Bradford Grammar School in 1978. The spirit of gritty academic endeavour and sincere intellectual excellence he learnt at this time has lasted to this day. In 1980, he moved to Rugby School. Here, he met and married Lavinia. His ambition to lead a department led him to move again in 1985 to Downside. Preparatory reading for this post made him discover an enduring love of the intricacies and intrigues of the French Revolution from the works of Richard Cobb. In 1988, he moved to Marlborough and led the History Department with great distinction for eight years. Peter then asked to step down. He never recovered his relish for managerial responsibility after this, but he continued with his Chairmanship of CSSC for a further eight years. This was a post he filled with The Marlburian Club Magazine
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great humanity, as many colleagues will attest, and with a record of which he is rightly proud. More recently, in Nick Sampson’s mastership, he was appointed to direct Oxbridge applications, a job he found stimulating and fulfilling. Peter vowed never to teach his own children, Tom, Henrietta, Alice and Patrick; yet ended up teaching all of them except Patrick, at some stage. History does not record whether or not he advised these children not to follow their parents into a career in education; but, in one way or another, every one of them has done so. Education will be the richer for them having done so. He intends to retire with Lavinia to Oxford where they will live like dons and drink deep draughts from the rivers of high culture flowing past ‘the dreaming spires’. When not detained by the sublime in Oxford, Peter will be engaged in the ridiculous with his many grandchildren on holiday in Cornwall. Generations of Marlburians, ‘rich and poor’, have entered classroom M1 by Peter’s ‘grain’d oak door’; and all have been encouraged by his constructive contrariness ‘to realise with unreal eyes reality and paradise’. Peter’s unique and profoundly paradoxical approach to schoolmastering will be literally impossible to replace. Those of us privileged to have served alongside him appreciate the estimable value of the ‘Peter Paradox’, as do many cohorts of the young who have been fortunate enough to be educated by him. May Peter and Lavinia prosper in retirement, as they so richly deserve to do. ‘Deus vult’.
Vincent Stokes (CR 1992-2017) aoul Dufy, the painter, observed that we focus on colour before form, and an immediate response to the subject of Vincent is that he wears green shoes. He is not as others. He is a man who sits on the dais in the Norwood Hall and talks to people in lunch that he may not come across in day-to-day life. He is a man who has a life beyond the confines of the College and enjoys the life of the town. He is a man of faith who knows that the facts of the Earth are not the end of the matter. He is not a man of convention,
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and he sees many important and beautiful things in details that others can rush past. In 1992, the College was looking for a new Head for the legendary Art School, and the Art Advisor for the West Country said that there was only one man that he knew who would be appropriate, and he worked at Eggbuckland Community College near Plymouth. At the interviews, Vincent provided a blaze of excitement about the work of the West Coast American painter Richard Diebenkorn, and it was clear that the advice was correct. The relief the Department felt was enormous and the rest is history; with an Art School reshaped, removed to a new building and adapted to the fastchanging world of art education at the turn of the century without the baby going out with the bathwater. Vincent was such a generous leader in the Art School, where his lightness of touch, wit and intelligence resulted in happy and stimulating teamwork. His commitment to the subject and his ability to coax, cajole, enthuse and excite pupils and teachers has resulted in a marvellous range of work over a period of 25 years. His approaches are not orthodox. It is very unusual for a teacher to be able to use negative criticism so positively. A tongue in cheek “that’s terrible” from Vincent has worked wonders on many occasions. His politically incorrect observations are so often absolutely spot-on, and he is a superb heckler in a meeting. However, it is the quiet conversations with so many pupils and colleagues that have won him so much admiration.
There is one vital area of Vincent’s work that for years served as a vital conduit for those who questioned ideas about faith and about how we should live. ‘9.10’ provided vital nourishment and entertainment for large numbers of Marlburians in that post-prep period in the Crypt Chapel. He feels passionately that young people need a safe and welcoming space in which to explore issues of faith without religion and judgement, and from their point of view. ‘9:10’ spilled out into Vincent’s classroom teaching. “I was a struggling A level pupil, not ‘naturally talented’ but still Sir stopped and gave me time as I had a crisis and a very public meltdown in class. He took me out of normal lessons and gave me tasks to do that built up my confidence. Miracles happen when teachers like Vincent Stokes stop and do something out of the box for them. And that sums him up for me … he is out-ofthe-box brilliant!” Vincent’s work here has involved stimulating the minds of the young – and indeed the not-so young – to think about things in different ways and look at the gaps between. Vincent is a superb lateral thinker and so he has been an ideal Form Beak and a great tutor in several houses over the years. In short, he exemplifies what a liberal educator should be and what a Beak should be. Marlborough is not just Vincent’s school: it is his family’s school. Helen worked here and Chloe, Alexandra and Will are all OMs. The Stokes family contribution has been huge and a Stokesless College will be a poorer place. Fortunately, they are very much part of the town and so we
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will not be losing sight of them, and indeed the future looks exciting. Vincent is a man of the community and we have been so grateful for his generosity, wisdom, humour and great company here. His gifts will find new outlets and we look forward to hearing about and indeed seeing what the next chapters will bring. Dr Niall Hamilton (CR 1985-)
Simon Ellis (CR 1993-2017) imon Ellis came to Marlborough College in the Michaelmas of 1993. The son of a former Housemaster of C1 (and a most eminent mathematician) and a nurse from the Sanatorium, he was born into the life of C1 itself, and raised in the glow of intellectual and familial nurturing of the highest quality. It is no surprise, then, that Simon has woven himself into the very lore of this most magical place, not only as a teacher of Mathematics, but also as a coach of rugby and cricket, the Master i/c Rackets, RHT of C1 and Littlefield, and, most recently, as the Housemaster of Barton Hill.
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In the classroom, he has maintained a fervent belief in thinking, rather than knowing, in discovery over memory. He demands intense scrutiny and inventiveness to adapt and play with high abstraction. His lessons are organic works of adventure, and they need no da Vinci moment. In this regard, it is no surprise that he has a dizzying facility for the cryptic crossword. Common Room is used to the daily sight of Ellis and Marvin
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competing to be the first to complete The Times crossword. Simon’s method is all forensic exploration of myriad possibilities; Marvin’s, a dazzling whirl of inspired half-guesses and mentally gymnastic justification; mine, openmouthed spectating. Yet it is unfair to suggest that he eschews knowledge for its own sake. He was the doyen of quizzes and the House Challenge for many years. There are few of us who have escaped the fierce intellect or piercing wit of Simon Ellis, few who have not fallen prey to his mischief. Given his father’s searing intelligence and his mother’s doting elegance, it is no surprise that care for, and intellectual engagement with, those in his company have become a hallmark of Simon’s time here. Yet it is fair to say that Simon’s affection is often qualified with a gentle prod or mischievous grin. More recently, Simon has turned his hand to House-mastering, and it is a true source of sadness for the school that his tenure has found itself curtailed before the shoots of his style began to form buds. Typically, Simon has approached the year with stoicism and selflessness, as the conflicting demands of his adoring family and his leadership of Barton Hill saw him torn irreconcilably. As he leaves us to dedicate himself to his beautiful family, I hope that they and we recognise just how difficult the last year has been, physically and emotionally, and what a profound gesture it is that he is making. While life here will move on, and the waters will eventually smooth over all of our traces, Simon’s contribution to Marlborough will be indelibly written upon the pages of the Marlburian, in the records of C1, Littlefield and Barton Hill, in the memories of sportsmen and women across generations of Marlburians, and in the hearts and minds of many of those lucky enough to have been his colleague or to have been challenged by him in class, in his own inimitable way. Stephen Clayton (CR 1994- )
Seán Dempster (CR 1994-2017) ean arrived at Marlborough in January 1994 from Bolivia, the then Master, Edward Gould, was not convinced by a
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rather erratic C.V. In spite of having only taught for two years previously at a liberal school in Hertfordshire, he quickly settled in to life at Marlborough. It was soon apparent that any reservations were unfounded and that Sean was a highly dedicated and skilled schoolmaster. It was no surprise then that, when in 1996 Alan McKnight took over as Housemaster of Turner, Sean was appointed as Head of Biology. Sean was meticulous and prepared an impressive array of PowerPoints that are still used by many in the Department, and in fact, Malaysia today! Sean also created the wonderful College Nature Trail that gives an insight into his encyclopaedic knowledge of the natural world. For years, he has led very popular Summer School courses incorporating his knowledge of birds with his love of the local countryside.
Having played for the Irish universities, Sean has offered much to hockey at Marlborough. For many years, he coached the 2nd XI boys and girls with great success. Many Marlburians will have fond memories of hockey tours to Germany, Barcelona and Dublin. In recent years, it is the field sports at the College that have blossomed under Sean’s leadership. The Clay Pigeon Shooting team has gone from strength to strength, regularly winning competitions against the best in the country. Sean arranged the merging of the College beagle pack with the local Palmer Milburn beagles so that the sport could continue. Sean’s other great passion is fly fishing, another activity which has grown hugely in his care. The Conservation Group works The Marlburian Club Magazine
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with Action for the River Kennet, and the it has never looked so splendid, and we are all lucky to have such a wonderful stretch of river to fish. Aside from country pursuits, it is C3 that has been Sean’s focus for an amazing 17 years since moving in as RHT in 2000. For those of us who have lived in the house and witnessed his unflappable manner, it is quite serene. The words “pack it in” uttered in his deep voice is often all that is needed to keep the boys in line. Very fitting then that when the C3 parents and tutors bought a racehorse they named it Pack it in! All the C3 boys who have been in his care will recognise the time and energy he gives to each and every one of them. His meticulous eye for detail means that he has high standards of his boys and the individual and collective triumphs of C3 are a reflection of this. The care he spends cultivating interests in his House is what makes C3 such a special place, be it evening trips out badger watching or early morning trips to the gallops to watch the race horses ride out. After 17 years, C3 without SMDD will feel odd, but after countless late-night duties and end-of-term reports, he has earned a rest! We owe Cath a huge debt of gratitude for the support she has given Sean in all he has done in C3. We are glad that Sean and Cath will remain in Marlborough where Sean will enjoy time on the river working with ARK and working his trusty Labrador, Bella, on local shoots. Sean, we thank you for 23 years of amazing service and wish you all the very best for a happy retirement. James Lyon-Taylor (CR 2006- )
Lavinia Ford (CR 1995-2017) t had not been Lavinia’s intention to build her teaching career at Marlborough, the school where she had been a pupil for her Sixth Form years, but in the early 1990s she found herself once again in the familiar surroundings of the town, as a Beak’s wife – Peter having been appointed to the History Department in 1988 – looking after their four young children. Then a part-time temporary English teacher was needed, and Lavinia
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thought she should apply; Andrew Gist, the HoD, jumped at the chance to appoint a Beak with such a clear love of teaching combined with such a deep knowledge of her subject. When the part-time need mutated into a full-time and permanent post a couple of months later, it was inevitable that Lavinia would be appointed for this role. She could not have anticipated in 1995 that this would be the beginning of a 22-year stint in North Block, eight of these as an outstanding Head of Department.
meetings held in Preshute Library, were instrumental in giving Scholars a forum in which to test their ideas; this work was complemented by her excellent leadership of debating. But such cerebral pursuits were only part of her contribution: she also ran cooking classes in the Morris house kitchens for many years, and – with remarkable patience and considerable administrative skill – she oversaw the ‘Working with children’ Wednesday afternoon activity (as it was then called).
Lavinia has certainly led by example. She is extraordinarily well read, and has continued to place a firm emphasis in the department on the pleasures of reading. Most recently, she has signed off her emails with not only her name, but a note of what she is currently reading – and these are reassuringly challenging books. She is absolutely rigorous as a teacher, with a reputation for fierceness in the classroom, which those who work alongside her find difficult to understand – until we have been privileged to witness her dealing with a miscreant in a departmental detention. Those who show any hint of surliness are shown the door, with a sharp invitation to try again; her dealing with slackers and plagiarists is a masterclass in interrogation techniques. But alongside her fierceness is extraordinary warmth, and those lucky enough to have been taught by her speak of her as being the scariest Beak they have faced – but also the most lovable.
Although she often claims to have found tutoring one of the most challenging aspects of being a Beak, as a tutor she has been meticulous and highly effective. She has worked for eight HMs, in Morris, C1 and Barton Hill, and I have witnessed her skill in drawing out a conversation from truculent and taciturn teenagers, using a combination of persistence and charm; hers was a genuine interest in her tutees’ welfare.
Lavinia’s willingness to share her enjoyment of literature has led her to run various societies. She introduced the 20th Century Reading Group as a Lower Sixth complement to the Shakespeare Society, which she also ran for many years. Play-reading was among the first wave of Sixth Form ‘Electives’ launched last year: Lavinia thoroughly enjoyed sharing her literary passions with nonspecialists. She also ran the Retro Book Group, introducing some neglected authors to a new generation of Marlburians. Before she became Head of English, Lavinia played a key part in the development of the Scholars’ programme, being first the Deputy Director and then Director of the Medawar Scholars. The Review and Essays Societies, with their lively
Indeed, Lavinia’s lucidity about what constitutes good teaching and learning (and conversely, what does not) has made her a formidable voice at HoDs’ meetings, able to demolish a weak proposition with a considered and elegant riposte. She is a scourge of fuzzy thinking, suspicious of initiatives that seem merely trendy. She is not afraid to speak truths, however discomforting, and, as with her pupils, she does not mind being out of favour when she has a point to make. Yet English Department meetings under Lavinia’s leadership have been open, sociable, convivial and collaborative: she has presided over (and, crucially, seen herself as a part of ) a very happy department. She is highly efficient as an administrator, but more importantly, a brilliant listener, valuing the contributions made by others and supportive of their initiatives. There is no doubt that Lavinia will miss her teaching, and the English Department will miss her. She will now throw her energy into family (I foresee extended holidays in Cornwall with children and grandchildren) and into her continuing intellectual life. We wish Lavinia and Peter a very happy retirement together. Mike Ponsford (CR 1987- )
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schools have looked to James for advice and guidance on how best to deliver such a demanding course. James also contributed a great deal to rugby, for many years as the coach of the 5th XV – otherwise known as The God Squad. Sloping Broadleaze was their spiritual home, the highest of the Marlborough pitches before reaching the Elysian fields of Wedgewood. Does James know that countless boys refused promotion so that they could stay in his team? Ever so slightly anarchic – very much like James himself – fun, original, celebrating difference, the sporting journey being about so much more than the result.
James Dickie (CR 1996-2017) ames arrived here from Clifton College as College Chaplain, a role surely unlike any other here.
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Father Dickie – as he has been known for the vast majority of his time at Marlborough – has been patient, understanding, selfless and generous. A source of strength for so many, both young and old. But how has his heart held out? Possibly because he is so kind, so blessed with the wisdom of doubt, so committed to the care of others. There is something in that title – Father Dickie – and there is no doubt that James was a pastor first, and a Minister second. When he first arrived, his style of delivery was brilliantly different. Forget the Minister ‘preaching’ from the height of the pulpit; James was among the congregation, very often on the move, frequently without notes. Surely one of James’s most appealing gifts was his sense of occasion, of the drama of Chapel. But behind the front was a priest honestly and humbly engaged with the ineffable, the awesome mystery of truth, the inadequacy, and hypocrisy of dogma. James presided over the Religious Studies and Philosophy Department for most of his tenure here. There is no doubt that the Department today reflects James in every way. A place where opinions are valued, where academic enquiry is demanded, where both exceptional and struggling pupils are cared for deeply. James was instrumental in the creation of the Pre U in Philosophy and Theology, and for many years now our competitor
James didn’t travel this way alone. Accompanied by his wife, Emma, for many years a much-loved Tutor in Littlefield and New Court and the kind hand behind the Chaplain, welcoming so many pupils and staff alike into her home with such warmth and generosity. His daughters Rachel and Hele, both Morris House, both Prefects and a great credit to James and Emma. And who can forget first Gunner, then the shocking white retrievers Oscar and Rufus, striding upfield come rain or shine with James in tow, music in ears, trowel in hand. How blessed we have been to live with such an open, welcoming and kind family.
Simon is a highly-respected Beak and Deputy Head of Maths. His in-depth knowledge of Excel and IT has allowed the Department to be thorough and scientific in its approach to raising pupil achievement and this, combined with his various other roles within the department, means he will be sorely missed. Simon has been a huge part of life in Summerfield as Resident House Tutor for the last seven years. Extremely well-liked and respected by the pupils, Summerfield lore has it that he has exacting standards of his pain au chocolat in the morning. It must be perfectly baked, crispy on the outside but moist and doughy in the middle.
There is an old Jewish Proverb which reads simply: “Things which come from the heart enter the heart.” And everything James has done these past 21 years at Marlborough has come from the heart. Gareth Playfair (CR 2010- )
Simon Quinn (CR 2005-2017)
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imon was appointed to the Maths Department 12 years ago. As a member of the Common Room Committee, Simon hosted the new Beaks BBQ, where we first met, with two broken wrists due to a snowboarding accident. More recently, Simon’s latest snowboarding accident led to him have two operations on his shoulder. But once again he hasn’t let it stand in the way of school life.
Simon has coached both cricket and rugby during his time here but his passions lie with football. Taking the Open 3rd team for many years, he has brought both his in-depth knowledge and more dubious tactics to bear during coaching sessions. Simon is himself an accomplished footballer representing Northern Ireland in the British Student Games and also achieving a university blue. He has also given his time to boys’ tennis. Simon has also been a consistent presence in the OA Department whether leading mountain-biking expeditions or kite flying. Simon is a most impressive member of staff and has offered something a bit different than perhaps the more traditional Beak. He will be sorely missed. We all wish him and his family well as he makes the move to Cranleigh to become Head of Maths. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Development Focus In gathering my thoughts to compose this annual summary of activity and engagement directed from within the Development office, on this particular occasion, I am drawn to pause and reflect more widely. As the College prepares for another academic year, the ticking clock brings me to a 36-year milestone – since joining Common Room in September 1981 – as I step down from my role as Director. sport, music and social. The aim is to provide a full and focused diary of activity and engagement, to suit all tastes.
The sense of time passing ever more quickly is incomprehensible and, sadly, a reality that cannot be dodged. Perhaps exaggerated by the termly structure, a year at Marlborough simply passes in a flash. Blink and the incoming Shell have moved through the year groups and out into the world. The five-year cycle is the building block of the Marlborough community and provides context for so many OMs and staff, during their time at College and in the years to come. Marlborough College is a very special place to live and work, and offers stimulating career opportunity and challenge within. I have been a grateful beneficiary of such a pathway and over four decades have etched a deep sense of belonging and loyalty to the school and its wider community. Most recently, in my role as Development Director, I have welcomed the opportunity to connect with many OMs, spanning the generations, and in doing so, supporting the dynamic lead of the OM Club Committee. The value, both to the individual and the institution, of a wellestablished and adeptly managed network for alumni and parents, past, present and future, should not be underestimated. In this regard, seeking to emulate best practice from the university sector and the business world, there has been a positive 92
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“During the past 12 months, the Development office has coordinated over 40 events, issuing 25,000 individual invitations, with 2,361 acceptances, an increase of 120% since 2014/15.”
step change across the independent school sector and Marlborough is, without doubt, keeping pace. The Development team is equipped with a wide range of complementary skills and experience with which to support the activities of the Marlburian Club and the work of the Foundation. Additionally, the department carries responsibility for all digital and printed communications and the management of the College Archive. During the past 12 months, the Development office has coordinated over 40 events, issuing 25,000 individual invitations, (excluding generic mailings) with 2,361 acceptances, an increase of 120% since 2014/15. The events programme is diverse by design, adopting a blend of formats across the spectrum of professional networking, mentoring,
The expanding picture is not confined to the UK, with a growing network of engagement and events overseas. The past three years have seen a marked increase in the number of international groups coming together and establishing regular events. The goal is to enable Marlburians to connect throughout the world, through easily accessed communications. There is still much work to do in this area; however, the path is set. Much closer to home, we should acknowledge and celebrate the success of the Memorial Hall appeal, reaching its £3.5m target in just 18 months. This has been a spectacular achievement thanks to the generosity of so many OMs, parents, staff and friends of the College. The restoration work is well underway, with an unveiling planned for summer 2018. While the fundraising for this great project was a team effort, much credit should be attributed to the energetic and skilful lead from Jan Perrins, Development Manager and our former Chairman of Council Paul Orchard-Lisle (SU 1952-56). It is indisputable that a well-connected and vibrant school alumni community creates a fertile environment for growth and opportunity for those within. In a rapidly changing world of new technologies and communication, the ability to harness the deep pool of knowledge and experience available within the Marlborough family is invaluable.
Jon Copp (CR 1981-) Director of Development
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Legacy for Life Campaign Considerable progress has again been made this year with the Appeals associated with our Legacy for Life Campaign. ince the launch of the campaign in 2014, up to 1 September 2017, the following has been raised in donations and pledges. We are enormously grateful to those who have given so generously.
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Bursaries Mem Hall Science Greatest Need
£2.7m £3.5m £1.8m £0.8m
Bursaries Appeal The Marlborough ‘bubble’ is a phrase used to describe the way in which our pupils are rather protected from the reality of the outside world. So the need to mix with and appreciate those who come from more challenging backgrounds is an important part of their educational experience. Our Bursary Programme seeks to draw pupils from diverse backgrounds, to create a varied and dynamic environment that all can thrive in, not just those who have seized the life-changing opportunity of a bursary.
Since the launch of our Legacy for Life Campaign in December 2014, we have raised £2,233,966 from OMs and parents for our Bursary Programme. Although these gifts have been life changing, the College recognises that it cannot solely rely on our community. In the 2017-18 academic year, the value of £2,377,000 will be spent on bursaries, representing an increase in over 60% in just eight years. The opportunities provided by Bursaries open many doors. Here is what one recipient said. “Without the Bursary and all that Marlborough provided both academically and holistically, I would not be where I am now,” said Professor Sir Keith Porter (LI 1965-67) a Swindon boy who failed his 11 plus but was given a Sixth Form Bursary and is now one of the country’s leading consultant trauma surgeons.
In 2015, our target was to fund 20 full bursary places by 2025. We currently have 76 pupils receiving a bursary of over 50%, and from September 2017 there will be 11 pupils receiving full bursaries.
How you can help? There are many ways in which you can support our Bursary Programme. •
The Bursary Endowment Fund invites capital donations and uses only the income from the fund to provide bursaries.
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The Annual Fund for Bursaries uses the full amount of donations as they are received to pay bursary fees.
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OM Futures – established by OMs to enable past year groups to raise money for a bursary to support one pupil for five years.
Professor Sir Keith Porter (LI 1965-67)
We wish always to encourage those fortunate to have received a Marlborough education, for themselves or their children, to do everything possible, within their means, to enable others from all backgrounds to enjoy the same advantage. Gifts, small or large, are all very much appreciated. If you are interested in finding out more about our Bursary Programme, please contact Development Director Jan Perrins on 01672 892439 or jperrins@marlboroughcollege.org.
Please visit www.marlborough collegefoundation.org for more information.
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1843 Society When any one of us thinks of writing a will it is, of course, our family and loved ones that come to mind. If we could respectfully ask you to also consider Marlborough in your will, you can both acknowledge the influences that have shaped your life and help secure the future strength of this unique institution for generations to come. egacy gifts, regardless of size, are one of the most significant ways of ensuring our pupils benefit from a Marlborough education that is a blend of tradition and forward thinking. Our young men and women leave Marlborough confident and well prepared to influence and succeed in the future.
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When Marlborough was founded in 1843, its purpose was to provide an education to those who could not otherwise have afforded it. This commitment to provide as many children as possible with a Marlborough education is as powerful an
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idea now as it was then. We believe it is important to have a diverse student body and, as such, it is our aim is to increase the number of bursaries we offer to pupils whose presence will add to the richness and diversity of the College. You may direct your gift to our Bursary Fund, as former OM Henry Rose (C1 1953-57), an avid follower of cricket, chose to do. Henry’s bequest enabled a talented local cricketer Elijah Samuel to join the Shell in 2012 on a full bursary. Elijah has flourished both academically and on the cricket pitch.
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Read Elijah’s story ‘It was an enormous honour to be awarded a Rose Scholarship for Cricket in 2012. Cricket has been a central part of my life at Marlborough, scoring over 2,000 runs in five seasons for the XI. Highlights have included: a half century on debut in the Shell; 134 against Rugby in the two-day victory in 2015; and 161 not out versus the Wiltshire Queries. It has been great to play alongside some first-rate guys over five years, and I am heavily indebted to the support and guidance of all the coaching staff. It was an amazing end to my school career to play at Lord’s against Rugby in August 2017 – a huge privilege for any cricketer! Securing the unforgettable 25-run win in a wonderfully exciting game is something that will live with me and my teammates for ever.
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at university. Most importantly, it has been great to meet so many interesting people and make lifelong friends.’
If you have made a bequest to Marlborough, please do let us know so we can make you a member of the 1843 Society and thank you appropriately.
Recognition
If you would like to receive our Legacy Booklet, or require any information, please do contact Jan Perrins on jperrins@marlboroughcollege.org or call 01672 892439.
The 1843 Society was created to allow the Master to show his appreciation to those who have thought of us in their will. We extend invitations to events including an annual summer lunch and a reception before the Carol Service in Chapel.
Martin Evans (CR 1968-) President of the 1843 Society
‘Elsewhere, beyond cricket, Marlborough has provided many new opportunities such as playing rackets, in which I was fortunate enough to captain in my Upper Sixth year. I am hugely grateful for the warmth and kindness of the boarding staff in Littlefield and the excellent teaching at the College, especially from the Economics Department – the subject for which I will go on to study
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Memorial Hall Appeal During my time at Marlborough, I saw the Mem Hall as a place where we watched plays and films, and listened to concerts and lectures, some with more attention than others. Those that concluded with a request to the Master for a whole- or half-day holiday were always well received. Only when I began to learn something of the history of the College did I understand the memorial aspect. To think that 749 OMs gave their lives in WW1, and a further 420 in WW2 and afterwards, is sobering and indeed something that should be recognised by generations present and future. Thus, when I was asked to help with the fundraising campaign to achieve a more suitable setting for the memorial and also much-needed improvements to the fabric and quality of the hall as a performance centre, I was very happy to do so.
“We received 755 gifts in total, 480 of those from OMs, which has enabled us to raise the £3.5m we needed.”
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Thanks to this exceptional support, together with the £2.5m from the College, work on the restoration has now started and at the time of writing is on track time wise. Doubtless there will be a few challenges to meet as the work proceeds, but we can look forward to something truly exceptional – both as a memorial and as a centre for various types of performance in the autumn of 2018.
The Appeal was supported at the outset by some enormously generous gifts. What took me by surprise was the large host of OMs, parents (past and present), and staff who also made donations – they came from all over the world and in large and small amounts – all gratefully received.
I hope that the many who have given to the Appeal will join me then to witness something that should be seen as more than worthwhile – indeed, arguably the centre of the College. We are planning an event for November 2018 to commemorate 100 years since the end of the Great War, in a hall that will be a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives for us. An invitation will be extended in due course to all those who have given. Thank you again.
In fact, we received 755 gifts in total, 480 of those from OMs, which has enabled us to raise the £3.5m we needed. The Marlburian Club Charitable Fund has also been very generous, and we are extremely grateful to them.
Paul Orchard-Lisle CBE TD DL (SU 1952-56) Chairman, Memorial Hall Appeal Committee
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Development Events 1843 Society Annual Lunch Members of the 1843 Society gathered for their lunch in June 2017, enjoying drinks and canapés in the Master’s Garden, before sitting down to an excellent lunch in the Adderley, where the Master spoke about life at Marlborough and plans for the future. Music scholars Miya Scott (MO Re) and Christopher Beswick (C1 L6) gave accomplished and moving performances after lunch. Some extended the day watching the Marlborough Blues play in the first round of the Cricketers Cup v the Old Cheltonians.
1843 Society Christmas Drinks 2016 The 1843 Society held its drinks reception in the Mount House Gallery where guests enjoyed festive mince pies and mulled wine before hearing from the Master, Jonathan Leigh (2012-), and President of the 1843 Society, Martin Evans (CR 1968-). Following the reception, guests joined pupils and parents for a Carol Service in Chapel.
749 Society Lecture Members of the 749 Society, for those who supported the Memorial Hall Appeal, and the Upper School, were treated to a fascinating inaugural society lecture by Mark Malloch-Brown (C1 1967-71), in the Memorial Hall in March. Mark’s talk on ‘Generals and Politicians in a Changing World’ highlighted the current complexity of world affairs and he gave an absorbing insight into his views and experience. Before the talk, the Master, Jonathan Leigh, and the Chairman of the Appeal, Paul Orchard-Lisle CBE TD DL (SU 1952-56), hosted guests at an enjoyable reception in the Garnett Room.
Parent Year Group Events The Master hosted several parent year group receptions throughout the year. Starting with the Lower Sixth in November, the Shell in January and the Hundred in May. These events were very well attended and offered parents the opportunity to socialise within their year group, talk with the senior management team who were in attendance, and hear the latest news and plans for the future from the Master. Following the reception, many parents stayed to meet their children for lunch or to watch them play sport. The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Sports & Club Reports OM Beagling
he 65th season of beagling at Marlborough was celebrated with a dinner and a Lawn Meet in the College. Attended by 56 supporters, including Jenny Bouskell, whose husband, James, was one of the founders of the pack, the dinner was a great success. We were treated to an excellent talk by guest speaker, Rory Knight-Bruce, who, when Master of the Tedworth, had organised a joint meet with the College pack. He emphasised the important sporting role the beagles play in the wider Wiltshire community, and the support and popularity the beagles have within the College.
OM Cricket Club – The Marlborough Blues
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Bathed in brilliant sunshine, the hounds looked superb as they gathered in Court. Danny Allen’s pack was mobbed by adoring students, many of whom came on to join the trail hunting at Temple Farm in the afternoon. After several circuits of the estate, tired, hungry and thirsty followers descended on Countess Goess-Saurau’s superb tea, which always provides the highlight of the last day of the season. Such was the popularity of beagling this season that two minibuses were required to transport the 25 students who followed hounds every Tuesday afternoon. Much of the credit for the surge in support is due to our charismatic kennel huntsman, Danny Allen, but I would also like to highlight the leadership shown by Captain of Beagling, Miles Brandi (C3 L6).
George Adair on his way to a match winning 133 not out against the Old Cheltonians
ne of the most successful seasons in recent years saw the Blues secure 9 wins out of 15 matches and reach the Cricketer Cup Quarter Finals for the first time since 2010. Victories were secured against the HAC, Hampshire Hogs, Guards, Sherborne Pilgrims, and Eton Ramblers. Defeats were suffered at the hands of Hurlingham, the School, and Old Westminster, and rain intervened to end proceedings against the Dilettantes.
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In a promising campaign, George Adair (C2 2002-07) and Alex Combe (PR 2010-15) became the 11th and 12th OMs to score Cricketer Cup centuries in 50 years of the prestigious competition. A young side, under skipper Ed Kilbee’s (C2 2001-06) leadership, secured convincing wins over the Old Cheltonians and Old
Next season sees several changes in the management of the Palmer Marlborough Beagles: Anthony Whinney takes over as Chairman and Gregor McSkimming will be the College Master in charge of the sport. Master-in-Charge Seán Dempster (CR 1994-2017) hmc3@marlboroughcollege.org 98
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The victorious team at Highgate after the Cricketer Cup 2nd Round
Cholmeleians before they succumbed to a strong Old Bedfordians outfit in the Quarter Finals. With some strong College XIs in recent years, there is plenty of optimism moving forward.
The Blues side after an emphatic victory at the HAC
Elsewhere, the Blues entered the inaugural T20 tournament at Eton, losing to the hosts before defeating the Old Wellingtonians. Personal milestones were recorded in a dominant defeat of the HAC with Tom Burne (CO 1993-98) scoring a century and Joe Arkwright (SU 2010-15) bagging a 5-wicket haul. It was also pleasing to see a significant number of recent leavers representing the Blues and enjoying their cricket. Secretary Mike Bush (TU 1993-98) michaelbush1979@googlemail.com
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Cricket results
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OM Football
P: 15 W: 9 L: 5 A: 1 v Hurlingham (away) 14 May – Lost by 7 wkts Blues 289 for 7 dec (Harry MacDonald (PR 200308) 61*, Tom de Boinville (C3 2002-07) 56, Alastair Edmonds (C1 1997-02) 47, Julian Taberer (C2 2003-08) 40) Hurlingham 291 for 3 v Dilettantes (home) 14 May – Match abandoned Dilettantes 245 for 4 (Julian Makin (B3 1981-85) 2-22) v Eton Ramblers T20 (away) 21 May – Lost by 9 wkts Blues 134 for 6 off 20 overs (Ed Kilbee (C2 200106) 64, Oliver Logan (PR 2006-11) 29) Eton Ramblers 135 for 1 off 12.5 overs
fter surviving their first season in the Arthurian League Premiership by a narrow three points, the Old Marlburian Football Club (OMFC) were looking to cement themselves as top division pedigree with an even more successful second campaign. Getting to the top is hard but staying there is even harder, as the cliché goes.
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v Old Wellingtonians T20 (Eton) 21 May – Won by 24 runs Blues 169 for 6 off 20 overs (Victor Kandampully (SU 1998-2003) 39) Old Wellingtonians 145 for 9 off 20 overs (Tom Burne (CO 1993-98) 4-13) Prize Day v School (home) 27 May – Lost by 7 wkts Blues 164 all out (Guy Parker (SU 2001-06) 29) School 165 for 3 (Fraser Gordon (PR 2014-16) 2-30) v HAC (away) 3 June – Won by 237 runs Blues 301 for 9 dec (Tom Burne 128, Tom de Boinville 62, Andy Bush (PR 1995-2000) 33*) HAC 64 all out ( Joe Arkwright (SU 2010-15) 536, Will Caldwell (CO 1991-96) 2-11, Alex Armstrong (C1 1996-2001) 2-11) Cricketer Cup 1st Round v Old Cheltonians (home) 11 June – Won by 8 wkts Old Cheltonians 241 all out in 46.5 overs (Harry MacDonald 3-51, Max Koe (BH 2008-13) 3-61, Finn Campbell (C1 2010-15) 2-52) Blues 245 for 2 off 46.2 overs (George Adair (C2 2002-07) 133*, Oliver Logan 57*, Uzi Qureshi (B1 2007-11) 32) Cricketer Cup 2nd Round v Old Cholmeleians (away) 25 June – Won by 115 runs Blues 254 for 8 off 50 overs (Alex Combe (PR 201015) 107, Oliver Logan 91*) Old Cholmeleians 139 all out off 37.2 overs (Tom Burne 3-16, Finn Campbell 2-11) Cricketer Cup 3rd Round v Old Bedfordians (home) 9 July – Lost by 10 wkts Blues 150 all out off 40.3 overs (Tom Burne 62, Mark Cattermull (C3 2009-14) 33) Old Bedfordians 152 for 0 off 18.4 overs v Hampshire Hogs (away) 15 July – Lost by 34 runs Hampshire Hogs 112 all out (Will Caldwell 3-18, Dom Brown (C1 2007-12) 3-40, Will Eversfield (C3 2007-12) 2-19) Blues 113 for 6 (Ed Nicholson (SU 1997-2002) 36) v Old Westminster (away) 16 July – Lost by 8 wkts Blues 90 all out Old Westminster 91 for 2 v RAC T20 (away) 19 July – Won by 77 runs Blues 190 for 7 off 20 overs (Alastair ScottDalgliesh (C1 1997-2000) 39) RAC 113 all out off 16.2 overs ( James Caldwell (CO 1995-2000) 2-9, Ed Rothwell (TU 2005-10) 2-11) v Guards (away) 29 July – Won by 100 runs Blues 196 for 5 off 30 overs (Ed Nicholson 76*) Guards 96 all out off 18.4 overs (Harry MacDonald 4-17, Ed Rothwell 3-15) v Sherborne Pilgrims (home) 13 August – Won by 4 wkts Sherborne Pilgrims 245 all out (Guy Parker 3-39, Harry Staight (B1 2003-08) 3-47, Dom Brown 2-54) Blues 246 for 6 (Ed Kilbee 95, Ed Rothwell 62, Guy Parker 36*) v Eton Ramblers (away) 20 August – Won by 3 wkts Eton Ramblers 187 for 8 dec. (Rob Frome (C1 2006-11) 2-41) Blues 189 for 7 (Ed Kilbee 54, Joe Arkwright 39, Andy Bush 37*)
Despite some decent performances in a new-look formation, the opening two games were lost against Tonbridge and Lancing. A central midfield of Ben Walters (SU 2005-10), Alexander Walters (SU 2007-12), Brad Miles (TU 2005-10) and George Brown (BH 2002-07) combined aggression, tactical awareness and authority throughout the season and got us underway with a draw away to King’s Wimbledon, a home win against Shrewsbury, and an Arthur Dunn Cup victory against Bancroft’s. Despite a chastening defeat in Essex to Foresters, the OMFC were gaining momentum. Alex Middleton (C1 200409), Alex Azis (CO 2004-09) and Niall Alcock (C2 1999-2004) showed pace, skill and deadly finishing as we battered Lancing 7-1. An almost impenetrable back five of Harry von Behr (B1 200106) (debatably having his best season to date after marrying his childhood sweetheart), Joe Hare (C3 1999-2004), Harry Bristow (C3 1999-2004), and Tom Forsythe (BH 1999-2004), were marshalled expertly by Nick Horowitz (C3 2002-07) as we drew 0-0 with relegation rivals, Harrow. Then came the match of the season. The game was almost gone as we went 3-0 down at half time to Shrewsbury, away. A galvanising half-time team talk ensured the OMs came out fired up, with Alexander Walters calmly slotting a penalty and Alex Middleton adding to
his growing tally. Cam Gordon (PR 2012-14) then scored twice, including delightfully chipping the keeper from 18 yards out for the winner. A last-minute penalty to Shrewsbury threatened to ruin the party, but Harry von Behr saved his fourth penalty in a row to give the OMs a 4-3 victory. The typical mid-season slump – injuries and key absences – seriously threatened our survival in the Premiership as we experienced back to back defeats to Eton, Tonbridge, King’s Wimbledon, and Brentwood. But we had nothing to fear. OMFC stalwart, Joel Hughes (C3 1999-2004), brought a calm head and some muchneeded goals as we thrashed Brentwood 7-3. We then played Harrow in what could have been a relegation decider. Losing at half time, we won the game 5-3 with goals from Cam Gordon, Joel Hughes and Niall Alcock. Old rivals Harrow were relegated at the hands of the OMFC!
James Allan (C3 2000-05), Ed HillSmith (C3 2002-07), Tom Phillips (PR 2001-06), Ed Kilbee (C2 2001-06), Tom Davies (C3 2005-10) and Cam Wimble (C2 2006-11) all played their part in a season where we finished six points clear of the relegation zone, guaranteeing our Premiership status for another year; a resounding success. As they stepped aside from OMFC management last summer, I would like to thank Joe Hare and Dan Black (C3 1999-2004) for everything they did for the Club – without them none of this would have been possible. If you are a keen and committed footballer reading this, I urge you to put your services forward and get in touch at omfc.management@gmail.com Club Secretary Ben Walters (SU 2005-2010) ben_walters49@hotmail.co.uk The Marlburian Club Magazine
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Sports & Club Reports OM Sailing The Arrow Trophy 2016 n the spirit of the adventures of Sir Francis Chichester KBE (C1 191518), surly the most adventurous and successful OM yachtsman, an Old Marlburian Sailing Association crew took to the Solent in October for the Arrow Trophy, an annual sailing competition for independent schools. The Sunsail F40 racing yacht was collected from Port Solent for a great day’s practice sailing over to the Isle of Wight. The crew were allocated their positions and, eventually, we had our spinnaker jibes running smoothly. An early broach proved to be a baptism by fire for some of the more novice crew members!
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Will Steward, Ed Gregg, James Ringer, Charlie Kendrick, Dan Ringer, Mike Dana, Roger Kendrick
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Returning OMSA stalwarts Charlie Kendrick (C1 1998-2003) and James Meredith (B2 1988-93) managed the cockpit, with foredeck maestros Edward Gregg (C2 1988-93) and Will Steward (C3 2007-12). Will Sheard (LI 19972002) was on mainsail, Mike Dana (B3 1959-63) was navigator, master tactician, and loblolly boy. Returning from an eight-year sailing sabbatical, Roger Kendrick (OM father) drew on his vast experience to take the helm. Cowes was reached in the afternoon, and after some mooring and accommodation admin, it was on to the bustling town for dinner and the exciting build up to the regatta. On Saturday, a hearty breakfast was rustled up by the acting quartermasters James and Ed, and we made it bright and early to the skipper’s briefing. After some final preparations and the receipt of a replacement spinnaker sheet (lost overboard in Friday’s practice) it was on to the racing. Morning squalls delayed the first race slightly, and gave the OM crew an exhilarating start to the day. The storm eventually passed, but some firm wind remained. A cautious beginning to the races gave OMSA lots to do. However, some skilful decisions and swift execution meant we climbed up several places. The starts improved as did the teamwork over the course of four varied races and a midfleet overall finish was an admirable end against some class opponents. The day was not without its drama. One of the squalls that came through caught many of the fleet off guard. Fortunately, the OM boat was in good shape with a reef in the main.
However, a couple of the boats were still flying their spinnakers only to be hit by gusts of up to 37 knots. This caused one of the boats to broach and the spinnaker filled with water pinning the boat onto its side. The unusual forces became too much causing catastrophic failure and the mast to snap! The boat and crew limped back to port courtesy of a tow provided by one of the committee boats. As we docked in the Yacht Haven, it was serendipitous that we should find ourselves mooring alongside Gipsy Moth, Chichester’s famous yacht. An evening return to Cowes left just enough time for Captain’s Cocktails in the pleasant crew-house digs, before the traditional Arrow Trophy dinner at the Royal Corinthian Sailing club – a highlight of the weekend. The day’s events were recounted over a fine three-course meal and there was light revelry with the other crews. Further fleet racing began on Sunday morning before the wind dropped, and it was time to enjoy a smooth return sail to Port Solent on a sunny autumnal day. We now look forward to returning next year and encourage any OMs who would like to join to contact Charlie Kendrick on 07946 641136. Experienced sailors and novices are welcome. The OMSA would like to thank The Marlburian Club for their continued support. Commodore Charlie Kendrick (C1 1998-2003) ckendrick0123@gmail.com
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OM Rifle Club lthough this was not the most successful year for the OM Rifle Club as a whole, many notable individual successes have been achieved during the last 12 months.
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The National Championships have just been completed at Bisley and the Club struggled somewhat in the Club concurrent competitions, making the top 10 in only one of the five matches, which reflected a very competitive year. On the individual front, we had three OMs in the top 50 of the Grand Aggregate and four in the final of HM Queen’s Prize, which are the two premier individual competitions. The top OM in both of these was a relatively new name, that of Ed Dickson (SU 2005-07). It is very encouraging to see a new, talented shooter starting to make a name for himself. Internal Club trophies, based on scores in the championships, were won by Richard Jeens (BH 1994-99) (top OM in the long-range matches) and Ed Dickson securing the other two. The Public Schools Veterans’ match saw the largest turnout by OMs ever, with the Club fielding almost six teams. As was the case last year, it was an exceptionally high-scoring event, with Robin Baker (B2 1954-59) rolling back the years securing the Vezey Trophy as the highest scoring OM in the event with a perfect score of 50 with all 10 shots in the central V-bull. The ‘A’ team came 5th, the ‘B’ team 4th and the ‘C’ and ‘D’ teams 4th and 10th respectively, but with the ‘E’ team defying the captain’s magic pin and beating the ‘D’ team to come in 9th. We were 4th in the Aggregate to Old Guildfordians. The other individual Club trophies in the Veterans were won by Richard Jeens,
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Simon Horner (C3 1977-82) and Patrick Pelly (B3 1968-72). The Buxton Plate was won by Chris (LI 1973-77) and Ed Dickson (SU 2005-07). After the veterans’ match, 34 OMs sat down for our Annual Dinner and this year we were honoured to host Tim Martin-Jenkins (B3 1961-65), the President of the OM Club. Four students from the College, who shoot in the National Championships, also attended. A fabulous selection of food and drink was again supplied by David Richards (B3 1972-76) and Dominic de Vere (BH 1987-92), to whom we were most grateful. On the national and international front, Bill Richards (C1 1977-79) again coached all the international matches for England and Great Britain. Sandy Gill (BH 1996-2000) (Scotland), Richard Jeens, Ed Jeens (BH 1998-2003) and Martin Watkins (Wales) competed in both the National and Mackinnon matches and Ed Dickson was rewarded for his excellent form, representing England in the National match for the second time in three years. It was honours even in our four shoulder-to-shoulder matches against the College during the year, with the Club winning both fullbore matches and the school dominating the smallbore matches; a fair reflection of the practice that both Club and College have had this year. On the overseas front, Bill Richards and Richard Jeens were part of a hugely successful Great Britain team to South Africa at Easter that won all the main individual and team matches, including the Australia Match, the second most prestigious international match in our sport. Meanwhile, Tom Lilley (SU 1999-2004) has taken his first steps on the touring ladder and represented the NRA team to the Channel Islands at the end of May. Charles Brooks (C2 1982-86) and Ed Dickson are representing Great Britain in Canada at the time of writing this article. Over the forthcoming 12 months, David Richards has been selected as the Captain of the England Mackinnon team next summer. President Bill Richards (C1 1977-79) omrc.secretary@gmail.com
OM Girls’ Hockey his year’s OM match was met with a lot of enthusiasm from the old girls, with 17 people signing up to take on the College on a sunny Club Day weekend. With a mixture of recent and less recent leavers signed up for a run around on their old pitch, we were all looking forward to what is always a great game.
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After a less-rigorous warmup than the College (we are a bit out of practice), the game got off to an exciting start, with lots of opportunities for both teams in the early stages. A lot of rolling subs later the high-paced first half finished all square at 0-0. The OMs roped in John Copp (CR 1981-) to lead the half-time talk where we all caught our breath, and got ready to try and get some points on the sheet in the second half of the most closely contested OM match in recent years. The second half held more end-toend play and fantastic displays of hockey from both teams, but sadly neither side could find the backboard and the final score remained 0-0. Players, coaches and spectators all agreed that it was one of the highest levels of hockey that has been played at an alumni game, and it was enjoyed by everyone. The Old Girls are already gearing up for the next game, and looking forward to trying to chalk up an alumni win for the first time in many years. Secretary Louise Burn (MO 2006-11) louiseburn@hotmail.co.uk
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Sports & Club Reports OM Golf
t’s been another fine year on the fairways for the OM Golfing Society (OMGS). There have been a number of notable successes on the links and also some wonderful results around our wonderful society.
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Starting with a brief round up of the tournaments that we have competed in this year: The OMGS put out a competitive team for the Brent Knoll Bowl at Bernham and Berrow GC and it was wonderful to hear of some excellent matches played and some super results from some of our younger and more talented players. The tournament was won by the RAF who were extremely strong. However, it is important to mention that Jamie Amor (C3 2014-16) and Callum McCall (C2 2002-07) beat the RAF’s top pair with a barrage of birdies but, alas, we lost to them 2-1 overall and were sent to the plate competition where we lost to Millfield in the semi-final 3-0. It was a fantastic year for the OMGS in the Halford Hewitt. With a strong team spirit and a competitive group of players, we marched past Blundells, our first-round opponents, beating them comfortably 4-1 in the morning. After lunch, we saw, as expected, that Eton had got through their first-round match and were to be our second-round opponents the following morning – a mouth-watering prospect! It was a superb clash as Marlborough matched Eton in every department and, with some close games going down the last, we edged past Eton 3 ½-1 ½. 102 The Marlburian Club Magazine
With spirits high and some excellent golf being played, we faced another tough opponent on Saturday morning – Loretto. Saturday morning at the Halford Hewitt is a special atmosphere. The busy putting green that you see on arrival, the divots flying on the gridlocked practice ground, the nervy chatting by the flagpole as you wait in line to tee off, the knowing looks between teammates who desperately want to win their matches. It was all of that and more as we locked horns with a talented and youthful Loretto team. It was another close match but once again Marlborough were victorious, 3-2. Our afternoon opponents were Berkhamsted, who themselves were on somewhat of a run. After the adrenaline of beating Loretto in the morning it was vital that the team re-focused and took the game to Berkhamsted, which we did with a solid 3-2 victory.
going down the 19th and both losing to a birdie – it was quite simply heartbreaking! Captain James Hopper (C1 1957-62) knows a thing or two about the Halford Hewitt and he said after the match that in all his years, involved as both a player and a captain in the Halford Hewitt, he has not known a better or more closely fought semi-final. It was hugely disappointing, of course, but all it has done on reflection is galvanise a group of players that now know they can compete with and beat anyone that they come up against. It’s hard to pick out one player from the team to mention, but Jamie Amor in his first Halford Hewitt winning 5/5 games and hardly missing a single shot all week demonstrated what an incredible talent he is and how important he is to the OMGS.
David Niven (C3 1970-73) 100th Halford Hewitt
The Halford Hewitt 2017 match also saw a very important milestone for our member David Niven (C3 1970-73) who played his 100th Hewitt match. An incredible achievement, congratulations to him. The OMGS also competed in the Public Schools’ Putting Competition held at Royal Wimbledon Golf Club and entered this year as reigning champions. Alas, it was not to be a repeat performance, but our team put in a solid performance and avoided the dreaded relegation!
Jamie Amor (C3 2014-16) and Jim Hewer (CO 1988-90)
On to Sunday morning and the semi-final against Epsom, to whom Marlborough had lost in the semi-final in 2000. It was a titanic match and simply could not have been any closer with two of the matches
The Bernard Darwin team were beaten in the first round by a very strong Charterhouse team 3-0. However, they won the Stableford Plate Cup by with a record score. The Senior Darwin team lost in the first round to Malvern 2-1. The Veteran Darwin team according to John Uzielli (CO 1950-55), “played with great aplomb, but with no success!”
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The Grafton Morrish team were knocked out in the 3rd round of last year’s competition by Oundle and have qualified for the 2017 competition, where they hope to improve on last year’s performance. Jamie Amor (C3 2014-16) and Elliott Matthews (C2 2005-10) represented the OMGS at The Alba Trophy at Woking. They played some spectacular golf in the morning returning a score of 71, but were not able to replicate that form in the afternoon. Perhaps one of the most satisfying day’s golf this year was the Under 30s’ Golf
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Event at the Berkshire GC in April. Twenty-six young OMs gathered for a hugely enjoyable day of catching up with friends and some really fun but competitive golf over the Red Course. It was a joy to see so many young OMs gathered together and, hopefully, this is a sign of things to come. The OMGS plans to organise more of these events to galvanise this wonderful group of golfers and, hopefully, many of them will make up the Modern Team at the Modern v Ancient match in February 2018.
Finally, the OMGS would like to take this opportunity to thank Adrian O’Loughlin (B3 1965-69), who this year stepped down as the Honorary Secretary of the OMGS, for his inspiring and committed leadership of this amazing society. Adrian leaves the society in fantastic order after 14 years as Secretary and we all look forward to spending time with him on the golf course over the coming years. Honorary Secretary Jim Hewer (CO 1988-90) jimhewer@btinternet.com
OM Polo
OM Squash
hanks to the success of Marlburian polo teams in recent years, we have a burgeoning alumni polo club. If you would like to get involved in future fixtures and receive information on the club’s activities please email the Club Secretary, Harold Hodges (CO 2005-10), at marlburianclub@marlboroughcollege.org
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he Courtiers lost in the first round of this year’s Londonderry Cup to a very strong Wellington team, which was able to field two world-ranked players against the ageing OM team.
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To avoid clashes with other fixtures, the 2017 Harold Radford Rose Bowl and the OM v College match was held in early September at the
OM Real Tennis We entered two pairs in the Cattermull Cup this year. Felix (PR 1957-62) and Alexander Pole (TU 1985-90) qualified from their group following victories over Shrewsbury and Harrow 2 and a narrow defeat to Haileybury. Sadly, they had to scratch from the quarter finals due to an injury to Al, but they won plaudits for their sporting play. The Bishops, Steven (PR 1969-73) and Oli (PR 2000-05), also reached the
College courts (there will be a write up in next year’s magazine). The Rose Bowl Tournament has been running for over 50 years and is open to all OMs, please contact me if you would like to play and get involved in OM squash. Secretary Alex Wildman (C2 1984-89) alex@brookshirecapital.co.uk
quarter finals but less convincingly. Despite losing to Etonian 1 and Taunton, a win against St Edward’s was enough to go through on games won in a very tight group. In the quarter final, we were well beaten by Rugby but had the consolation that we lost to the eventual winners. However, after reaching the semis last year, this was a little disappointing. Secretary Steven Bishop (PR 1969-73) smwbishop@yahoo.co.uk
If anyone is interested in joining any of the sports’ clubs or would like some more information, please contact the Club office on marlburianclub@ marlboroughcollege.org or phone 01672 892385
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Financial help for OMs Are your finances in a mess through no fault of your own or do you know an OM who is struggling? Do you need help to complete your postgraduate studies or specialist training, or to undertake a gap year project? OMs may be eligible for support from the Marlburian Club’s Charitable Funds in the following ways:
1. College fees When OMs with children at Marlborough encounter some unexpected hardship (sudden redundancy, severe illness or death) funds can be made available to ensure their children can continue their education there.
2. Professional training expenses The trustees have supported a range of OMs who need support with training:
many medical students have been given contributions towards the costs of undertaking elective training overseas; a music graduate who had shown great initiative and determination in his fundraising was given a grant for specialist training in the US; and a young OM was given a grant to take up a United Nations internship.
3. Emergency assistance Help is occasionally given to OMs who fall on hard times and are in need of short-term help in order to get them back on their feet. Such assistance is usually given as a one-off ex gratia payment for a specific purpose.
4 . Gap-year grants All pupils are invited to apply for support when they wish to undertake gap year schemes which involve an element of service to groups less privileged than themselves. Individual grants average about £400 and come from an endowment made by Judge Edwin Konstam (LI 1884-87). If you would like to apply for assistance, please send an email to the grant administrator at MCCF @marlboroughcollege.org or write to him c/o The Marlburian Club, Marlborough College, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 IPA. Please write in the subject line or mark the envelope Grant Application – Private & Confidential. All enquiries are treated confidentially.
Photographers and writers The Magazine would like to help any potential writers and photographers. If you would like to get your name onto the pages of this magazine (going out to over 10,000 subscribers), please contact the Editor, Catherine Brumwell, on catherine@theommagazine.co.uk
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On the Shelves The book includes over one hundred healthy recipes, healthy eating advice, and Pippa’s experiences of meeting with people who have suffered from heart conditions and benefitted from the research that the BHF has funded.
From Communism to Community: Memoirs of a Diplomat and Teacher By Selby Martin (LI 1946-50) Published by YouCaxton Publications, £15 ISBN: 978-1911175315
Selby Martin was born in Broadstairs, Kent, but, with the outbreak of war, he and his family were evacuated to Rannoch in Scotland. After National Service, he studied modern languages at Cambridge. An application to join MI6 was unsuccessful and instead he entered the Foreign Office. As the Ambassador’s Private Secretary in Moscow at the height of the Cold War, he was still able to travel extensively in the Soviet Union. Posted to Bolivia, Selby found travelling, fishing and rafting in the Andes more to his taste. After marriage, he spent two years in Pakistan and then moved on to a communist Bulgaria. Upon leaving the Foreign Office in 1972, he taught languages at Shrewsbury School. He was involved in outdoor activities and in campaigning to protect the town’s historic heritage and the wider Shropshire countryside.
Death of a Translator By Ed Gorman (C3 1974-79) Published by Arcadia Books, £14.72 ISBN: 978-1911350088
After a summer in Kabul province, Ed Gorman, a young freelancer, became a staff reporter for The Times, covering conflicts in Northern Ireland, the Gulf,
Mastering Composition: The Definitive Guide for Photographers Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Balkans, but Afghanistan never let him go. A young, devil-may-care Englishman, determined to report on the Soviet War and make a name for himself, makes a fateful commitment to a swashbuckling Afghan guerrilla commander. Not only will he go inside the capital secretly and live in the network of safe houses run by the resistance, he will travel around the city in a Soviet Army jeep, dressed as a Russian officer. Waiting in the mountain camp, from where Niazuldin’s band of fighters lived and planned their hit-and-run attacks on Soviet troops, Ed discovers what it means to experience combat with men whose only interest is to be killed or martyred. Death of a Translator is a searingly honest description of a mind haunted and eventually paralysed by the terror of PostTraumatic Stress Disorder.
Heartfelt By Pippa Middleton (EL 1997-2002) Published by British Heart Foundation, £14.99 ISBN: 978-1899088874
By Richard Garvey-Williams (B3 1975-80) Published by Ammonite Press, £66.46 ISBN: 978-1781450635
What makes a great photo? Flicking through the pages of most popular photography magazines, you might get the impression that there’s only one rule of importance – ‘the rule of thirds’. Indeed, it appears that some will judge the merit of a photograph based almost solely on this. Rarely do you hear discussion about ‘visual weight’, ‘balance’, ‘negative space’, ‘depth’, and so on. Author and professional photographer Richard Garvey-Williams argues that success lies in a combination of four elements: an impactful subject; dynamic composition; effective use of lighting; and, perhaps the most crucial, ability to invoke an emotional response in the viewer. Citing examples gleaned from a study of history – the Ancient Greeks’ Golden Rule; Fibonacci’s mathematical ratio; and the principles known as the Gestalt theory – the author analyses the concepts, rules and guidelines that define successful composition in photography and offers practical guidance to achieving great results. The Marlburian Club Magazine 105
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On the Shelves In clear, concise and jargon-free text, he also considers the role of tone and colour in good composition, and offers invaluable tips and the tools to help the photographer take control of the creative process. The book is illustrated with examples of the author’s own beautiful nature photography, along with diagrams and notation to explain techniques most clearly. A final chapter in this definitive guide for all serious photographers discusses photography and its relationship to art before offering a considered conclusion to the exploration of this fascinating topic.
Mastering Wildlife Photography
overseas; there’s in-depth insight into field craft, including the use of hides, feeding, baiting and stalking, while remaining vigilant to danger. The book also contains an essential guide to lighting, composition, the emotive response to the subject, how best to photograph groups of animals or birds, plus techniques for capturing action, close-ups and studies of botanicals.
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By Chris Fussell and Charles Goodyear (B1 2007-12) Published by Portfolio, £9.32 ISBN: 978-0735211353
Men of Substance By Robert Stedall (LI 1956-60) Published by Austin Macauley Publishers, £19.99 ISBN: 978-1786124562
Too often, companies end up with teams stuck in their own silos, pursuing goals and metrics in isolation. Their traditional autocratic structures create stability, scalability and predictability – but in a world that demands constant adaptation, this traditional model fails.
By Richard Garvey-Williams (B3 1975-80) Published by Ammonite Press, £16.88 ISBN: 978-1781450864
Wildlife is one of the most challenging and popular subjects for photographers. With strong emphasis on the ethics and legalities of animal welfare, the protection of the environment and the responsibilities of the photographer, Richard Garvey-Williams’ concise, comprehensive yet accessible text covers the practical techniques of photography and how they relate to capturing stunning images of quarry that is invariably erratic, often endangered, and typically shy and elusive. Stressing the need for meticulous preparation and research in planning a field trip, he covers scouting locations, timing of trips relative to the seasons, in addition, assembling a kit of equipment and transporting it
One Mission: How Leaders Build a Team of Teams
Is it realised that Londonderry with its impregnable fortifications was built by the London Livery Companies? Is it known that a second Spanish Armada landed in Kinsale in 1601, with every expectation of gaining Irish rebel support to push the English out of Ireland? Had it succeeded, Ireland would have become a Spanish dominion. English involvement in Ireland was designed to subdue its dogmatically Catholic Gaelic chieftains and to prevent it becoming a bridgehead for foreign invasion of Britain. Attempts to impose English Government and the Anglican religion met with determined resistance from a native population alien in language, custom and creed. The English solution was to expropriate ancestral Gaelic lands and to settle them with waves of English colonists who would ‘civilise the natives’. These included Presbyterian arrivals from Scotland who were no more in sympathy with Anglican rites than the Catholic Irish.
In Team of Teams, retired four-star general Stanley McChrystal and former Navy SEAL Chris Fussell made the case for a new organisational model combining the agility, adaptability, and cohesion of a small team with the power and resources of a giant organisation. Now, in One Mission, Fussell channels all his experiences, both military and corporate, into powerful strategies for unifying isolated and distrustful teams. This practical guide will help leaders in any field implement the Team of Teams approach to tear down their silos, improve collaboration, and avoid turf wars. By committing to one higher mission, organisations develop an overall capability that far exceeds the sum of their parts. From Silicon Valley software giant Intuit to a government agency on the plains of Oklahoma, organisations have used Fussell’s methods to unite their people around a single compelling vision, resulting in superior performance. One Mission will help you follow their example to a more agile and resilient future.
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Ruby Redfort: Blink and You Die
tough cookie like Alka to cope with all the intrigues of privileged British publicschool life.
By Lauren Child (B1 1982-84) Published by Harper Collins Children’s Books, £6.99 ISBN: 978-0007334292
However, no one knows that the exuberant and dominating Alka is a witch and while at Marlborough is inducted into an extracurricular circle of dangerous sorcerers. Passionate, powerful and ambitious, she is willing to use black magic as well as her looks and other assets to get everything she wants from life.
Say goodbye to Ruby Redfort: every smart kid’s smart kid. The mind-blowing conclusion to the thrilling series by award-winning author Lauren Child. Ruby Redfort: undercover agent, codecracker and thirteen-year-old genius – you can count on her when the ice starts to crack. All good things come to an end… Ruby Redfort is running scared, a whole bunch of people want her dead and worst of all one of them is on her team. But just who is this agent of doom?
All that Sasha wants is to be with Quentin Taylor, a stunning Oxford scholar and occasional drug addict. But is their relationship strong enough to withstand the charms of Alka and the Oxford secret society, as well as a family breakdown? It certainly isn’t helped by the appearance of Robert Lambert, a charismatic Canadian, whose own secret Sasha doesn’t learn until it might be too late... but then who is going to rescue Sasha’s father from his evil handlers and at what price?
Valley of Time is the sequel to Jeremy Holden’s successful first novel, Sea of Doubt, and poses this crucial question: What if you could go back to the pivotal moment in time that shaped your life? Would you try to alter your fate?
Commando General: The Life of Major General Sir Robert Laycock KCMG CB DSO By Richard Mead (SU 1960-65) Published by Pen & Sword Military, £20.29 ISBN: 978-1473854079
Valley of Time By Jeremy D Holden (BH 1978-82) Published by Clean Publishing, £8.50 ISBN: 978-0997897012
Secrets of One Marlborough Girl By Elena Gogh (NC 1991-93) Published by E.L. Gogh, £8.99 ISBN: 978-1520460871
When Russian heiress, Sasha Emelyanova, arrives at the exclusive Marlborough College in England she is glad to have her penniless best friend, Alka Gromova, by her side. It takes a
deeper purpose at work, and he is forced to keep an unbelievable secret from the FBI and even his closest friends. A secret that challenges the very core of our beliefs about space and time.
Mal Thomas barely escaped with his life after his extraordinary dealings with Alfredo Baptiste, the world’s most powerful industrialist. Having subsequently become famous as a bestselling author after writing a book about those experiences, Mal is approached by another enigmatic billionaire with an equally incredible proposition. Huw Hudson, the man often described as a modern-day Howard Hughes, wants to position his company, Space Rider, as the leader in commercial space tourism. After Hudson tries to enlist him and his team of mad men and women, Mal discovers a
Always marked out for high rank, Robert Laycock came into his own when selected to raise 8 Commando, a new ‘crack’ unit early in the Second World War. After training, 7, 8 and 11 Commandos were sent to the Middle East in early 1941 and all became Layforce under Laycock’s command. Layforce was disbanded after Crete fell. Laycock took part in the abortive raid on Rommel’s HQ. As commander of the Special Service Brigade, Laycock played an important role in the Sicily landings and at Salerno. In October 1943, he succeeded Mountbatten as Chief of Combined Operations, coordinating combined services operations and training, and attending Allied conferences. In later life, Laycock became Governor of Malta and Colonel of the SAS. In this long overdue biography, the author reveals the detail of this fine soldier’s character and superb military record. The Marlburian Club Magazine 107
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Classified COTTON HOUSE PRINTS A pair of framed prints of Cotton House by Gertrude Hayes (1872-1956), published by W.H. Beynon & Co. of Cheltenham. janey.greenwood@ btinternet.com
1-TO-1 TUITION ONLINE Choose from over 3,000 subject specialist tutors from top UK universities, to give your child flexible, one-to-one tutorials throughout the year. Founded in 2013 by an OM, use ‘Marlborough’ at checkout for a discount. Visit MyTutor.co.uk
ALEXANDRA ZARINS ROLLS Alexandra trained at Charles H Cecil Studios in Florence where she specialised in portraiture. She now works from her studio in London. For enquiries and commissions please contact her at paint@alexandrazarins.com www.alexandrazarins.com
ORIGINAL SHEPHERDS HUTS The huts have been found on farms in and around Wiltshire and were all used originally for the purpose for which they were intended. They have been carefully restored to their original condition. Call John Errington on 07530 395152 or email john4.errington@outlook.com
TIGER BLUE The ultimate sea safari and family adventure. Explore the stunning islands of Indonesia on board Tiger Blue, a traditional phinisi yacht sleeping up to 12 guests. Private charters and individual cabin reservations available. Email sail@ tigerblue.info for more information.
SUZI G BASTABLE S.I.A.D Specialising in equine and canine portraiture. Any animal undertaken. Prices from £200. Tel: 07547 501692 suzig123@googlemail.com facebook.com/horseanddogartist
STEPHEN EMBERTON ARTIST Steve Emberton (C2 1947-52) took up oil painting when he retired in 1997. Since then he has completed more than 100 works, many of which can be seen at https://steveemberton.artelista.com
TUSCANY/UMBRIA BORDER Renaissance Italy. Brilliant spacious farmhouse villa – our home. Sleeps 11. Pool. Therapeutic atmosphere. Views. Privacy. Email mark.tress1@gmail.com www.ladogana.co.uk
MCNEILL GALLERY OF CONTEMPORARY ART Your choice for quality paintings from up-and-coming artists in UK 2 Market Place, Pewsey, Wilts SN9 5AA www.mcneillgallery.com Tel: +44 (0)7702 472 326
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Advertising he Marlburian Club Magazine is circulated to over 11,000 alumni of Marlborough College as well as to all parents and guardians of over 900 current pupils.
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Research indicates the Magazine is read by between two and five AB1 readers per copy, and that it is kept for the whole year. With alumni and parents living in all corners of the globe, its reach is international. For that reason, the Magazine has always attracted very high-quality advertisers. If your business would like to target the same demographic and you would like the opportunity to advertise in next year’s edition, please register your interest today by emailing marlburianclubmagazine@ marlboroughcollege.org
Advertising options Full page Half page horizontal Half page vertical Quarter page Outside back cover Inside front/inside back cover Classified
Advertising Sales Kate Goodwin, Alumni Relations Manager, The Marlburian Club, Marlborough College, Wiltshire SN8 1PA
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The Marlburian Club Magazine 109
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Crossword Competition crossword by Alberich (C1 1976-80). Closing date: 31 March 2018. Please send completed entries to: Kate Goodwin, The Marlburian Club, Marlborough College, Wiltshire, SN8 1PA or scan and email to marlburianclub@marlboroughcollege.org
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2016 Crossword solution
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We were delighted to receive several correct entries for 2016’s crossword. The winner was Steve Emberton (C2 1948-52) who received a pair of Marlburian Club cufflinks. G R
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2017 Crossword One letter should be removed from each of 20 clues before solving, always leaving real words. In clue order these letters spell out a recent project undertaken by Marlborough College. Three cryptic representations of this appear in three pairs of unclued entries. Each of the remaining six (normal) clues contains a one-word definition of an unclued entry. ACROSS
17 For example, froggy goes back for fly (5)
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One puts out flames? Could be English hero if so (4,4)
18 One who detests orchestra playing without new cor anglais, ultimately (5)
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New York seer needs new material (5)
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Paints an allergy as affecting part of throat (9)
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Palm boa off, showing coolness (6)
23 Revolt bishop, breaking wind by coat (9)
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Unclued (4)
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Unclued (8)
25 English writer, regularly shoddy, receives a fright (5)
14 I had to wear familiar cowl (10)
19 Unclued (5) 20 Chimney breast’s front gone? That’ll cause back trouble (7)
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Fire almost stops important match (9)
27 Mage enthrals Lynn? That’s mean (7)
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A doctor meets artiste outside pub for a jar (7)
28 Neil’s being broadcast after light satire (7)
10 Unclued (7) 11 Some probe pliable daggers (5) 12 Norma’s subsequently assigned to ancient temple (9) 13 Young woman imports cheese for messenger of God (7) 15 Son towards the end gets pain (5) 110 The Marlburian Club Magazine
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29 Muse on cash dispenser found in temporary shelter (9) DOWN 1
Mean to lightly pass over end of gap year (6)
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Note mound mare churned up by motorway (10)
16 Start to neglect a brother? That’s wrong and detestable (9) 17 Unclued (8) 18 The man will grass for dead Seth (4-4) 21 At least a present keeps ayah happy for starters (6) 22 Turn lover in by green (6) 24 One’s used to cult book getting special deal (5) 26 Unclued (4)
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SPINE
27/11/17
SPINE
4210 MCMag-COVER 6mm Spine _[4]
13:31
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SPINE
27/11/17
NUMBER 118
T H E M A R L B U R I A N C LU B M A G A Z I N E WINTER 2017
SPINE
4210 MCMag-COVER 6mm Spine _[4]
WINTER 2017
The Marlburian Club Magazine Cover story: Daring to Fail Jake Meyer explains why not reaching the summit of the world’s second highest mountain is anything but a failure