Issuu

September 2019

In this Issue 3 President’s Message 4 A word from The Headmaster and Rossall in Asia

5 A word from The Secretary 6 Event Reports 8 OR Weekend and Triennial Dinner 10 Celebrating 175 Years of Rossall 12 Golf 14 Our Sporting Futures 16 Memories of Rossall 17 Rossall Re-Connect 18 Artistic Alumni 20 Amazing Alumni 21 Battlefields Trip 2020 22 Visits and Congratulations 24 In Memoriam 26 Notes 27 Quiz 28 Dates for your Diary

Contributors: Graeme Marrs Jeremy Quartermain Ian Preston Julie Barkhuizen Jim Cowpe Nancy Fielden Nick Hadfield Noel Muscutt Arthur Stephenson Photography: Anthony Farran Lore Walsh Graphic Design: Lore Walsh

Rossall School Archives We are in the process of updating and cataloguing our archive collection. If you have anything of historical interest that you believe should be in the archives, we would be delighted to receive it. For more information, or to donate to the archives, please contact Julie Barkhuizen Tel: 01253 774288 Email: j.barkhuizen@rossall.org.uk

President’s Message Written on 11th July 2019

My dear fellow Rossallians I cannot believe that I am now in my third year as your President. However, I still feel as privileged as ever at the honour bestowed upon me, and equally enthused about not only the progress within our School, which is palpable, but also the ongoing activities of your Club. I am basically computer / internet “illiterate”, but many of us, more “modern” than me, are “literate” and so, I would commend to you our website and forthcoming activities page, which is looked after so splendidly by the Development Office. I do not propose to give you “chapter and verse” of my recent movements (albeit many and varied), other than, perhaps, to congratulate our Halford Hewitt Golfing team for a great effort at Sandwich this year, under Noel Muscutt’s captaincy, when we lost to Watsons in Round 3; we could easily have been contesting the Semi Final, or even the Final – quite like “old times”! Now, we eagerly await the introduction into the team of the products of our wonderfully successful Golf Academy. However, there are some interesting forthcoming events, your support for which would be appreciated:

2019 •

The London Gathering at the Wax Chandlers’ Hall (6.30 for 7.45 p.m.), on 25th October.

•

The Remembrance Day Service in Rossall Chapel on 10th November.

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O.R. Carol Service in Rossall Chapel on 21st December.

2020 •

O.R. Weekend 28th March.

•

WW2 Pilgrimage to Normandy: •

Main Tour to the Battlefields 10th – 15th June

•

Short Tour 12th – 14th June to play “Ross Hockey” on the beach at Arromanches!

Both trips to honour those from the Rossall Community who laid down their lives for us during WW2. Come and join us. May I pay tribute to the great work our secretary, Ian Preston, continues to put in on our behalf; so much of it goes unheralded, but, believe me, it is crucial. Thanks also to the Development Office who ensure that everything runs smoothly. Furthermore, I must commend the recent publication of the OR Book of Remembrance – WW1 (where we lost some 298 ORs). I am so proud that the Rossallian Club has sponsored this “tome” – it is a masterpiece – and warmest praise in particular to Hannah Jenkinson (OR), who has conducted such “in depth” research. Our new Sports Centre is now complete and will be officially opened in October. It is a major addition to the infrastructure of our School, and ensures that we retain our position as one of the premier sporting institutions in the North of England. Well done Council! For those of us committed to seeing the Organ in Chapel restored to its former glory, I am delighted to report that the required remedial work can now go ahead as funds are available. Our thanks are due to all those who have made this possible, especially Hazel Trapnell and David McKee. Last, but by no means least, thanks to my fellow officers, the Committee, and all those connected with the activities of the Rossallian Club. Without you we would be pretty much lost! Warmest greetings to all from both Lilias and myself.

Graeme Marrs MBE (J & F 51-57) We are saddened to announce that shortly before publication, Graeme Marrs passed away following a short illness. Our thoughts are with his family. We have lost a truly great friend, whose energy and enthusiasm will be missed. Please do take the time to read his message above. There will be a full obituary in the next issue of the magazine.

A Word from The Headmaster, Jeremy Quartermain One of the great pleasures of this year has been provided by the opportunity to meet so many Old Rossallians, both here in the UK and Overseas. You are a dynamic and friendly community and one which is distinguished by an enduring commitment and an abiding generosity towards the School that, for many of you, will always be home from home. It has been my great fortune to become the seventeenth headmaster of Rossall during a period when a growing number of Old Rossallians are taking a keen interest in the development of the School. Neither the new Performing Arts Centre nor the new Sports Centre would have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of so many Old Rossallians and, words cannot express our gratitude. I would also like to express my very real appreciation of Graeme Marrs who has worked so tirelessly to develop the OR Club. He has a remarkable ability to connect with ORs of all generations and his generosity of spirit is the stuff of legends. You will know that Rossall is firmly in the ascendant. The real ambition articulated in the School Development Plan (2019-2024) is complemented by an intense focus upon all aspects of teaching and learning within School. An increasing number of UK families are choosing Rossall and, as our latest ISI inspection report testifies, they have very good reason to do so. It has been a year of profound change

here at Rossall but I believe that the school is now well positioned to excel in every regard. Whilst this year our strategic gaze has been firmly focused upon the future, it has been a year during which we have also reflected upon our illustrious history. We were absolutely delighted to welcome so many of you back to Rossall for events held in celebration of our 175th anniversary. In November, on the 100th anniversary of the signing of the armistice, we remembered those two hundred and ninety-eight Old Rossallians who died during the First World War. At Rossall the past is never truly past and Old Rossallians remain at the very heart of our collective school life. For me, this is beautifully exemplified by the dinner which Spread Eagle holds every year to celebrate the life of Florian Pöttinger (Spread Eagle 07-10). Florian died tragically young and each year a cup is awarded in his honour to the boy within the house who best exemplifies Florian’s courageous and friendly spirit. This year I am delighted that Florian’s parents were with us to present the cup. Listening to Florian’s parents reflect upon what Rossall has meant to them was profoundly moving, utterly compelling and simply inspiring. Our best ambassadors are our current pupils and Old Rossallians and we invite all of you to take every opportunity to stay connected and an important aspect of our future success. Please do visit us during the forthcoming academic year and we hope that you will feel the excitement and joy that we experience daily as the school goes from strength to strength. In the meantime, thank you for your continued support, generosity and enduring fellowship. Floreat Rossallia!

Jeremy Quartermain discusses Rossall in Asia In February I departed Rossall for a fleeting visit to Bangkok and Hong Kong. It was an extraordinary privilege to spend time with Rossall’s many friends in this part of the world. It was all too brief a visit with less than 48 hours spent in Bangkok and just over 24 hours spent in Hong Kong.

Rossall’s long standing association with South East Asia dates back to the beginning of the twentieth century. The British soldier, mercenary, explorer of Africa and colonial administrator Frederick Lugard (1858-1945) attended Rossall School in the 1870s before going on to become the Governor of Hong Kong (1907-1912). The historian Rory O’Grady

“Our best ambassadors are our current pupils and Old Rossallians.”

has written a fascinating biography about Lugard entitled The Passionate Imperialist. Last year, Rory was kind enough to donate a copy of this wonderful book to the Rossall School Library. Lugard was a swashbuckling adventurer who lived a life of remarkable contrasts. He achieved an extraordinary amount and was, in part, responsible for the creation of Nigeria. Meeting current and prospective parents is always a joy and in Bangkok we were fortunate enough to be treated to dinner at the house of Jim Thompson who was responsible for saving the Thai silk industry from almost certain extinction. In 1967 he disappeared whilst visiting Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands. As a former CIA executive, speculation concerning his disappearance was rife, not least because he was considered to be supportive of those movements antithetical to US interests. The brand which now bears his name is famous throughout Southeast Asia. Once again, there is a strong Rossall link to this particular company as a Rossall parent is Director of Communications of this highly successful global brand. Rossallians really are to be found everywhere. If you wander down to the Bangkok Protestant Cemetery

which provides a haven of tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, then you might chance upon J. Geoffrey Walsh, the cemetery chairperson. Geoffrey retired to Bangkok some twenty odd years ago, having lived in America for much of his adult life. He is an Old Rossallian and remembers his days on the Fylde Coast with real fondness. All of those whom we met in Hong Kong evidently share bonds forged in Lancashire. The fact that there are groups of Rossallians in cities across the world who tend to remember the School with such fondness should be a cause of very real celebration. We are a global school and I have no doubt that all of us gain a tremendous amount from being part of a network of collegiate friendship which extends well beyond the school gates. It strikes me that, for many, Rossall is more than just a school and more than just a home. On the trading floors of the Hong Kong stock exchange or in secluded corners of Bangkok, Rossallians are to be found. Some left the school nearly seventy years ago whilst others left much more recently. All retain a regard for Rossall that endures to this day.

A Word from The Secretary, Ian Preston (J&Pe 66-73)

At last, as reported in greater detail elsewhere in this publication, the new data base is up and running, which makes it so much easier for us now to collate all the information we have about ORs and help us pass the information on to you. To take advantage of what is available please do sign up. If you need any assistance please give Julie a call and she will guide you through. Unfortunately good old Data Protection legislation prevents full access being available, but I am afraid we have to live with that. We are receiving a lot more information from you all and the response to the request for “Memories of Join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

Rossall” has been astonishing. This will be available on the Rossallians website, so well worth a look, and please keep it all coming. With the increase flow of “news” it may seem a rather strange decision to change this news letter from a Bi-Annual to an Annual publication, but that is what we have decided to do. It is our feeling that the resource required to produce two issues is far better utilised in giving you one bigger and better production, with pointers for you to the Web site for fuller versions of particular items. The “Obituaries” section for example, and we all know that is the first section we all skip to, will be very much condensed, with more detailed reports available on line. Apologies for those of you less at ease with “on line”, but I think most of us have now got to grips with the basics. I am reminded of the suggestion that decimalisation should be put off until all the old folk had died! I suppose those that can remember that are the ones now with “on line” issues! 5

Event Reports Lake District OR lunch Hillthwaite House Windermere June 2019 By Nick Hadfield (SE 65-70) We had to move from our 2018 venue (Linthwaite House Hotel) as although it was very good, it was too small and we were in two adjoining rooms. So it was off to our third venue in three years, Hillthwaite House Hotel. I did think that we needn’t have bothered as 23 people from last year were unable to come. The proximity of the 175th Anniversary Ball the weekend before did not help. We lost all our recent leavers which was a shame. However numbers eventually reached 55 and again we had to use an adjoining room. Everyone agreed the three course meal they put on for us was very good, the wine flowed and the noise level was high. By all accounts it was our best lunch yet. Unfortunately next year we will have to leave Hillthwaite House for a bigger venue.

Guests were:Dale Hjort, Henry Shepherd, David Shingler, Judith Shingler, Pat Marshall John Marshall, Frank Heald, Karen Heald, Nick Hadfield, Maureen Hadfield, Ken Fayle, Kira Fayle, Simon Hockings, Sarah Hockings, Jeremy Quartermain, Howard Brown, Bridgit Brown, Martin Brown, Joan Brown, Mike Grinrod, Tracey Grinrod, Ian Preston, Martyn Hoyle, Jane Hoyle, Mark Hartnett, Jayne Hartnett, Graeme Marrs, Poppet Marrs, Richard Rhodes, Stephanie Rhodes, James Garnett, Glenny Garnett, Paul Warren, Geoff Fieldhouse, Nina Fieldhouse, Jim Cowpe, Moira Cowpe, Barclay Simpson, David Ewart, Val Ewart, John Preston, Christine Preston, John Prestwich, Julie Mananzan, Peter Frost, Marilyn Frost, Vivien Ivell, Nancy Hallam, Jonny Chard, Harold Sharples, Sylvia Sharples, Gillian AustinKing, Katie Lee, David Crye, Julie Barkhuizen. We hope to see even more of you next year.

Speakers were the Headmaster and our President Graeme Marrs. The Carmen was sung with great gusto and no chairs were broken by those electing to stand on them. John Marshall accompanied the Carmen with his violin and added a little extra tune which the writer is unable to remember.

For a list of forthcoming events, please see page 28 of this magazine. All Old Rossallians and their guests are welcome to join us.

For more information of forthcoming events, join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

North of England: Rossallian Gathering at The Buck Inn, July 14th 2019 By Jim Cowpe (DC 49-56) What kind of fool would organise an afternoon tea on the day of the World Cup Cricket Final, the best ever Men’s Tennis Final at Wimbledon, The British Grand Prix at Silverstone and for some the last night of The Lytham Proms? However, as things turned out, the event proved a great success and persuaded me to organise something similar next year. The weather was perfect and the gathering was, as was hoped, as informal as possible. Everyone was able to move around the pub and garden freely. We all had a chance to speak to each other and there were two surprising coincidental introductions which had nothing to do with Rossall. The tea itself was entirely French and proved very popular. Our thanks go out to Vicki (nee Cowpe) and her staff for their input. We look forward to next year’s event which we hope will be earlier in the year.

P.S. The guests were able to sneak out from time to time to watch the incredible scenes on TV because Vicki had laid on two TVs in separate rooms! The following persons attended: Graeme Marrs, Alf & Sandie Tansey, Jim & Moira Cowpe, Vicki Cowpe, Gillian Austin-King with her mother and daughter, Edna Fayle, Sally Ellis, Nanette Trueman, Margaret Parr, Nimble Thompson, Mike & Liz Hartford-Cross, Geoff Allan, Mark Patterson, Chris Soulsby, Barclay Simpson, Geoffrey Simpson and partner Sandra. I am deeply grateful to the twenty four people who were unable to attend but nevertheless sent their apologies.

For more information of forthcoming events, join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

OR Weekend and Triennial Dinner Despite wind and blustery showers we had a marvellous turn out for OR weekend with over 260 visitors for the weekend’s events, including a fully sold-out Triennial Dinner. It was fantastic to see friends old and new chatting in Mondos and on tours, meeting up to play RossHockey and Association Hockey and enjoying lunch together. In the afternoon there was an Astronomy Show by Dr Nick Lister and visitors to the new Performing Arts Studio were treated to dropping in on a rehearsal of Blood Brothers. The Headmaster hosted another of his popular question and answer sessions and the OR Club AGM was well attended. After a short break we reconvened for the usual packed Chapel Service, Drinks in Big School accompanied by Zac Crowe (Year 12) on piano, and then made a hasty dash across the Square to avoid the rain. As always, Tim Fletcher and his team provided a sumptuous feast, Heather’s decorations transformed the tables, the Rose girls made super waitresses, the wine flowed and the bar was busy, especially Julie’s rhubarb and ginger gin cocktails. Speeches were well received and The Carmen was exceptionally loud! Sunday morning saw a small number of classic vehicles in Chapel Car Park for the first meeting of Rossallian Car Club, after which we were grateful for hot drinks and more chat in the Dining Hall. A fabulous weekend! See you all again soon!

“It was fantastic to see friends old and new.”

Celebrating 125 Years of the Rossallian Club

“Speeches were well received and The Carmen was exceptionally loud!”

Celebrating 175 Years Three hundred former pupils, parents and friends of the School gathered for pre-reception drinks before being lead to the School Dining Hall for the big reveal. The Dining Hall had been transformed into a glamorized Rossall Through the Ages, with memorabilia scattered, a library of historical pictures projected on the high walls and even a science experiment for guests to perform on their table. It was a real community event and made possible by support from a number of local companies. Lighting, sound & stage design was courtesy of Knight Rigging Services of Blackpool. The fabulous Twelve Restaurant, Thornton, served dinner, and music was courtesy of local musicians the Ian Hooper band. There were also almost 60 fabulous prizes auctioned, all generously gifted by Lancashire enterprises and businesspersons, as well as auction prizes gifted by Old Rossallians, parents, and local businesses. Throughout the meal, guests were treated to performances by television and musical star Mazz

“It was a real community event.”

Murray, who has just been announced as the West End lead in Mamma Mia! Mazz entertained and wowed the audience with a number of musical hits spanning 175 years. The evening raised a fabulous £35,000 for the new Sports Centre which houses the North West’s first indoor hockey facility, a four-lane 50m sprint track, a long jump track, classroom and a viewing gallery. As well as enhancing Rossall facilities for the pupils the Centre will also be open for wider community groups to use, including Wyre Netball.

“The evening raised a fabulous £35,000 for the new Sports Centre!”

Golf Rossallian Golf Society Spring Meeting at Hoylake, 1st May 2019 By Arthur Stephenson, Hon Sec. Rossallian Golf Society The Royal Liverpool Golf Club at Hoylake has hosted all the great golf tournaments of note in the UK, including twelve Open Championships dating back to 1897 and eighteen Amateur Championships. In September this year, they will host their third Walker Cup Match between the US and UK and Ireland. So, a suitable venue, you might think for the Rossallian Golf Society’s Spring Meeting? Of course it was, and to make the point, as we assembled for lunch in the Club’s magnificent Spike Bar, the clouds lifted and we were treated to a fine, calm afternoona rarity in these parts. When your Secretary, after a couple of stiff drinks to settle his administrative nerves, finally collected his notes and copious lists from the floor, he calculated that fifty-seven members (nineteen three balls) would compete, playing eighteen holes Stableford for the Newsome Trophy, and would be joined by a further eight members for dinner in the evening. In the event, two of our number had to pull out- Farmer Marriott from llkley having to take to his bed that morning with a high fever, and one of our three handicap girls from school due to an imminent confrontation with her GCSE Examinations the following morning. However, with your somewhat ragged Secretary and excellent super-sub Tony Bush (OR) standing in, we were still able to field the full list of fifty-seven. Interestingly (for me, anyhow) of these there were five students from the School Golf Academy, three from the North West, and twenty-one from South of Birmingham, mostly from London, but from as far afield as Hampshire and Devon too. And of the fiftyseven, twenty-six were making their first appearance for the Society, which is most encouraging. So hearty thanks are due to everyone for their support, but especially to those from the distant south, and to our own ‘Biggles’ Millar, who once again flew himself (and his dogs) from Belfast to be with us. His flying career might have been permanently grounded during his Rossall days, when the then Headmaster, Dr. Sharp, took a dim view of young Biggles flying his plane at what he judged to be a dangerously low level around the Sumner Library!

Hoylake, at over seven thousand yards is a formidable challenge for this sort of gathering, but our troops battled manfully round, greatly helped by the intervention of our President, A. G. de B. Marrs {as his name appears in my 1955 ‘Red Book’), generously dispensing large glasses of Kummel, at his expense, from a hut behind the 10th green. Perhaps not surprisingly then, the winners emerged from the ranks of the youngest ORs playing; though Peter Millard, that dark horse of previous meetings, managed a very creditable third place.

The results were as follows: 1st and winner of the Spring Meeting – The Newsome Trophy – Jack Morrison (11 h’cap) 39pts. 2nd Charlie Ardron (6 h’cap) 37 pts tied but won on best 2nd 9 holes. 3rd Peter Millard (17 h’cap) 37 Team Prize (Men) James Wilson (11) Jack Morrison (11) Tom Morrison (20) 109pts. Team Prize (Ladies) Jenny Cheetham (24) Nicky Ewart (10) Lea Dawson (3) 99pts. Sixty-five members enjoyed a superb dinner in the beautiful Clubroom upstairs in the evening, when we were grateful to the Headmaster for attending, and telling us something of his ambitious plans for our old school, and of the progress being made to achieve them. We were grateful also to the Secretary of RLGC and all his staff who looked after us wonderfully well throughout the day. And finally, it was a delight once again, to have the students playing with us, and to see at first hand, the charming way in which they conduct themselves both on and off the course. Since the Golf Academy at school was started less than three years ago, under the direction of Stuart Hemmings, our resident professional on the staff, the students, by winning almost every schools’ event throughout the UK, have elevated Rossall to first place, by some distance, in the Independent Schools Golf League table - a remarkable achievement in so short a time. And finally, a big thank you to everyone who came up to Hoylake, for your support, and a plea to come up to Fleetwood GC, another fine course, for our Autumn Meeting on Wednesday 2nd October,

“Hearty thanks are due to everyone for their support.”

when we will be able, after golf, to look around the new recently completed Sports Centre, and to have an excellent dinner in the School Dining Hall.

Halford Hewitt Cup at Royal Cinque Ports and Royal St George’s Golf Clubs, 11th-14th April 2019 By Noel Muscutt The Halford Hewitt Cup is the world’s largest amateur golf tournament where 64 schools, each with 10 in their team, compete over four days in scratch foursomes knockout format, at the Royal Cinque Ports (Deal) and Royal St. George’s (Sandwich) Golf Clubs. It was played for on 11th-14th April 2019. This year Rossall were drawn against Taunton in the first round in the very first match of the tournament, early on the Thursday morning, at Royal St. George’s. With some strong golf we managed a comfortable win 31/2 – 11/2, which put us through to a second round tie against Hurstpierpoint on the Friday morning. A win again followed by the same margin with some similarly strong performances, ensuring that we made it through to the Saturday morning, this time against Watson’s with whom we have had many tussles in the past. Playing well, the team felt confident but sadly went down in a very fiercely fought contest, narrowly losing by the closest of margins, 3 – 2. Watson’s went on to lose in the semi-final to Malvern, the eventual winners. So, it was definitely a case this year of “what could have been.” The team were again well supported by Geoff Henney and Chris Holt, and also by Graeme Marrs, President of The Rossallian Club, making his first trip to experience all that happens in Hewitt week... and it can safely be said that the whole team really appreciated him coming and enjoyed his company as much as he seemed to enjoy the teams! The Rossall Golf Academy at School continues to be very successful and new talent is on the horizon which will surely strengthen our challenge in the years to come. With this in mind, the Captaincy of the Rossall Halford Hewitt side for future years has been handed over to Matt Allen who has promised to take us into the stratosphere! Any single figure OR golfers who would like to be considered for selection, please contact Matt Allen at mdpallen@hotmail.co.uk

For more information of golfing events, join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

Our SPORTING FUTURE Sports Centre Appeal

Please join us in supporting this wonderful addition to our campus

The new Sports Centre is now complete and will be officially opened on Tuesday 15th October 2019. This facility is, as you know, long overdue and will really enhance Rossall Sport, but it will also be available to outside parties as we strive to play a bigger role in the local community. The fundraising is going well, having raised £600,000 but we still need to raise another £200,000 to help the School fund this fantastic project. A huge thank you to all those Rossallians who have already supported the Sports Centre Appeal and who will be looking forward to seeing their names on the Donor Recognition Wall, which will be located in the foyer of the Sports Centre.

But it is not too late for you to join the Appeal. There are many different levels of support, with everyone donating £175, or more, having their names on the display. But please note that anyone wanting to be included on the Recognition Wall needs to send in their details by Friday 11th October at the latest.

MAKING A DONATION

Donating is easy - a form is enclosed with your magazine which explains how you can make a gift. Alternatively you can support us online at

www.rossall.org.uk/sportscentre or email Henry Shepherd

h.shepherd@rossall.org.uk

Thank you

We are enormously grateful to our benefactors

Memories of Rossall Michaelmas Term 1949 By Jim Cowpe J & DC 1949-56 Honorary Life President of the Rossallian Club Without doubt this term was the most memorable during my seven years at Rossall. It began on September 23rd and this illustrates how things have changed. The term now begins at the beginning of September. I was among an intake of sixteen eleven yearolds into James House (now Rossall Junior School) making a total of thirty-two 11-13 year olds. Our Housemaster, Mr A H Skigh was pretty strict and had a fearsome reputation.

Jim Cowpe: third row, third from the right “next to the little chap”.

On our first morning we were taken up to the vestry to have our voices tested for entry into the choir. I told everyone I was going to croak like a frog, but to my chagrin I was informed that I had already been put in the choir because I had been awarded my Royal School of Church Music Medallion the previous Easter, by coincidence at Rossall. The summer of 1949 had been excellent and it had been so good that the powers that be decided to reopen the open air pool whilst the good weather continued. Being a show-off, I stayed in the water after the whistle to get out had gone and for my sins received a Punishment School from “Peetree” Johnson, Housemaster of Pelican. Imagine my horror to receive a PS on my first day of term. Needless to say I was the only person in PS that day and I sat alone quivering as to what my Housemaster would think of me. I am certain this is a record which will never be broken – a PS on your first day at Rossall. As it happened there were extreme repercussions from the pool being open. It had not been filtered during the holidays and the water wasn’t safe. The result was that three pupils were affected and it was quickly decided that the School should close and we were all packed off home. We all thought this was a great idea but three weeks later we were not so pleased to be returning to school once again. The good news was that the infection had been curtailed but it was a shame for the three boys who had suffered from it.

The next major event of the term was that Sir Thomas Beecham brought his orchestra up from London to give a concert in Big School. Sir Thomas is probably regarded as our most famous old scholar. Sir Thomas had already given the Steinway piano which is in Big School. He was noted throughout the world for his great musicianship and his acerbic wit. It proved to be the forerunner of some wonderful subscription concerts by world famous performers such as Benjamin Britton and the Amadeus Quartet. My final recollection of my first term was something called the Assault-at-Arms. This took place in Big School on the last night of term. It consisted of a gymnastic display by the Gym VIII and their coach “Gunzt” Barker followed by a series of silly sketches by members of the Sixth form and Common Room. This was very popular and a precursor to the midnight feasts in our dormitories. The Assault carried on for many years until it was brought to an end by the rowdy behaviour of certain senior boys. Michaelmas Term 1949 was a defining moment in my life and without doubt its greatest legacy to me is that it was here that I met some very special friends with whom I have kept in touch until this day in 2019. I speak of Mike Reece, David McKee, John Wildman, Harry Fletcher and John Hallam. Floreat Rossallia!

“Sir Thomas Beecham brought his orchestra up from London to give a concert in Big School.”

Rossall Reconnect

ORs reunite after 54 Years, they re-connected through the Rossallian Club network. Such fantastic news to hear that David Eynon-Williams ( J & R 1960-66) and Michael Langan (R 1961-66) have re-connected. They met up again while both representing their respective countries at the European Grand Masters Hockey Tournament in Brasschaat, Antwerp. It has been 54 years since they last saw one another and they are both still playing hockey at the age of 70. David was representing Wales, whilst Michael had flown over from Australia, and was playing for Southern Cross. David currently lives in Wales, and Michael lives in the beautiful Barossa Valley in South Australia. They were grateful for the opportunity to reminisce about their time at school in the 60’s, and enjoyed a couple of Dutch lagers together. Michael had the last laugh. Southern Cross beat Wales 4-0.

For info on joining Rossallians Online to re-connect to old friends, and keep up with Rossall news and events, see page 26

Join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

Broadway in Berlin Lauren Stephens (Dn 2009-16) has taken her lifelong love of musical theatre by founding ‘Musical Theatre Society Berlin’. Though less than a year old, MTSB has established a faithful troop – a merry mix of artists and expats from all walks of life – who look forward to their inaugural performance ‘A Walk Down Broadway’ this October. As the director, Lauren wears many hats – choreographer, vocal coach, stage manager, and cheerleader – but despite the long hours on top of her normal 9-to-5, the community aspect and getting to share her passion makes it all worthwhile! “I’ve loved musical theatre since I was a kid – those in my class probably remember I was always humming a show tune,” laughs Lauren. “Now I get to share that love with an amazing and talented group of people and seeing how the community has grown together has really been inspiring.” If you want to learn more about MTSB there are many ways to get involved! Show times can be found on their Facebook page Musical Theatre Society Berlin (don’t forget to like and share). Email mtsocietyberlin@gmail.com for more info and to donate – your contribution goes towards expanding this program for even more people in the community to enjoy.

It’s All About the Bass On Saturday 6th July, Old Rossallian Matthew G Baldwin (P 08-15) took part in the Llangollen International Music Festival as a member of John’s Boys Male Chorus. John’s Boys won the Male Voice Choirs Section beating choirs from Italy, Ireland, Wales, England and Sweden. This win put them into the finals for the Choir of the World 2019 competition, held in front of a packed pavilion. The event was also televised worldwide. Competing against extremely talented competition from the winners of the other singing categories, Youth Choir, Female Choir, Mixed Choir and Open

Choir, John’s Boys were elated to be announced winners of the Choir of the World/Pavarotti Trophy 2019. Matthew has been performing with John’s Boys Male Chorus for two years as their Bass Soloist. While at Rossall, Matthew was the School Music Captain and was awarded the Thomas Beecham Music Prize. He has just finished his third year at The Royal Northern College of Music where he is studying as an Operatic Bass

To share your own news, join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

Amazing Alumni Imagine, if you will, the Bar of the Leaf Hotel, near Sandwich, Kent. The OR Golf team are gathering, ready to do battle in the ‘Halford Hewitt’ - a Golf Tournament for 64 Public Schools. Within this team, is a gentleman, who has flown from Atlanta, Georgia, USA, especially to play for his old school. Enter David Tonroe - a charming man and a more than competent golfer. He endures the ridicule of his friends back home: ‘’ Why go there, when you are missing the ‘Masters’ in Augusta?’’; the opportunity of being with old school mates for a week is overwhelmingly appealing- much fun and competitive Golf - perhaps the highlight of his golfing year! David first played in the Hewitt in 1992. On his first appearance, he flew in from Hong Kong having recently played in the Eisenhower Trophy in New Zealand representing Hong Kong (a high profile Amateur event in which Phil Mickelson and David Duval were also playing!). He subsequently played in Rossall’s Halford Hewitt team 1992 and 1993, before moving to America to ultimately set up his restaurant business. In 2008 we got him back from America with him relishing the opportunity to play again, even though it was an 8000 mile round trip. He has subsequently played in 9 out of the last 12 Hewitt’s amassing some 72,000 miles travelling in the process! Commitment above and beyond indeed. During the course of the conversation, David discloses his gratitude to his ‘Alma Mater’ for heading him in the right direction as he enters the ‘Big Wide World of Life’.

David Tonroe (P 84-89) ‘’My Vision of a ‘Living’ O.R.’’ By Graeme Marrs Additional contribution from Noel Muscutt

He was not content just to have on his CV ‘Educated at Rossall School’; the School means more to him not only does he respect the values Rossall has taught him, but also he delights in being in the company of those educated in the same environs, and sharing these same values. Doubtless, there are many like David and his fellow golfers (the OR cricketers immediately spring to mind), but I am so keen to encourage the younger generation of Old Rossallians to feel and act in similar style. They, and Rossall, would benefit thereby. Thanks, David. Floreat Rossallia!

“David has played in 9 out of the last 12 Hewitt’s amassing some 72,000 miles in the process!”

BATTLEFIELDS TRIP 2020

FULL TOUR 10th to 16th June 2020 Approximate cost of £1200 20 places available SHORT TOUR 12th to 14th June 2020 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST please contact Julie Barkhuizen 01253 774288 alumni@rossall.org.uk

ITINERARY SUBJECT TO CHANGE

WEDNESDAY 1OTH JUNE

SATURDAY 13TH JUNE

07.00 09.00 13.00 14.45 21.30 22.30

War Grave Service or Ross.Hockey on beach at Arromanches 12.00 Auberge Lunch PM War Grave Service or Ross.Hockey on beach at Arromanches Timing dependent on tide 19.00 Gala Dinner

Depart Lymm RUFC on Coach Warwick Services Arrive Portsmouth Harbour Ferry to Caen Arrive Caen Arrive Mercure Hotel, Omaha Beach

THURSDAY 11TH JUNE 10.00 Meeting in Conference Room in Hotel. Introductions - John Dennison, Peter Clarke and Rupert Wallace 12.30 Buffet Lunch 13.45 Coach to Pegasus Bridge and Beaches 18.00 Return 19.30 Evening Meal (optional)

FRIDAY 12TH JUNE 10.00 Coach to Falaise

12.30 Auberge Lunch 17.00 Visit Calvados/Cider Farm 19.00 Supper at Chateau, short tour arrives

SUNDAY 14TH JUNE 09.45 Coach to Bayeux, for Service in Cathedral. View Tapestry 12.00 Lunch in Bayeux, short tour departs PM Free time or Golf at Omaha Beach Evening Meal (optional)

MONDAY 15TH JUNE 11.00 Depart Hotel for Ferry (opportunity to shop) 14.00 Ferry to Portsmouth 19.00 Arrive Portsmouth Harbour 23.00 Warwick Services

TUESDAY 16TH JUNE 01.00 Arrive Lymm RUFC

BATTLEFIELDS TRIP 2020

Visitors Toby Ma (Sze Kui) (J & Pe 94–09)

and partner Leanne. Toby is now an anaesthetist in Nottingham. His parents still live locally. Toby and Leanne met when he spent a year in Singapore.

Yang An (Lu & SE 99–03)

with his wife, baby and mother. An is now living in Manchester and running an online retail business.

Emma McGachie (Assh 03-09)

with her sister, Ella and parents Gill and Steve. Emma was in Junior School at Rossall but is now living with her family in Queensland. They have come over to visit family and celebrate Emma’s 18th birthday. Her mother, Gill, was the International Secretary in our ISC (00-12) Congratulations Emma!

since leaving in 1997 and was delighted to revisit his schoolboy memories. Chris is now a Primary School Head Teacher in Altrincham.

Thomas Schneider (SE 98-2000)

Unexpected visit from Thomas who was visiting the World Magic Convention in Blackpool. Thomas now has a successful dental practice in Munich. He very much enjoyed his tour, seeing new developments and of course meeting Dr Dohmen.

Paul Waring (J, DC & Fn 66-71) and daughter Laura. Paul is a doctor.

John Noble

(known as Kelly while at Rossall) with her friend. The ladies were on a quick six day visit to the UK from Beijing. Wing Ting was keen to show her friend her “old school”. She is working in engineering.

John’s father and 2 uncles were ORs. Father, Thomas George (1921–24) Fleur-de-Lys House, left to be Pilot office followed by RAFVR. Uncle Roderick David Bell (1923–25) Fleur-deLys House, killed in action WW2 (brother Thomas George). Roderick’s name is on the honours board in Chapel.

Patrick Berg (P 12-17)

Mr and Mrs Carl Stott

Wing Ting Chan (R 01-07)

Patrick visited to meet with his teachers. He is studying Politics at Portsmouth but looking for a switch to the USA to study American Politics.

Father, Gerald Maxwell Stott (44-48 FdL) won a scholarship to Manlius Military College, USA. They brought memorabilia and were sad that dad never got back to visit here due to Parkinson’s Disease.

Peter Foster (O & SE 80-87)

Peter had never been back. He lives in Norfolk now. Peter had sent a video of Peter Bennett’s walking tour of Rossall in 1980s and was very impressed by the new developments.

Mr Graham King

Chris McConnell (DC 94-97)

with his wife and 3 grandchildren. Graham’s two sons Chris (Cl & Pe 80-89) and Martin (Cl & Pe 80–92) came to Rossall and they wanted to show the children where their fathers went to school. Graham told them about lots of stories about their dads’ time here, in the 80s. They were delighted to have so much ammunition for their return home.

and ...

Mr Michael Smith (O & SE 55-62)

and family. Chris visited with his wife and young daughter. This was the first time he had been back

brought some friends to see his old school. Mr Smith Ian Henesey (SE 73-75) John Dewhurst (JS & R 56-66) Common Room now lives in Annecy in France. He had been to the Golf Spring Meet the previous week. Dr Philipp Thiedig (MC 98-2000) 24.6.19 Mr Michael Bridgett (JS & SE 49-57) and his wife Margaret Mr Geoff Dean (O & DC 54-57) and his wife Anne 22

To organise a visit please email alumni@rossall.org.uk

Visitors & Congratulations Band of Brothers: the Holder-Williams

Sofiya Len (W 2012-14)

Congratulations to Sofiya Len on her marriage to Daniel McAteer. The Wedding ceremony was held on 16th of March, 2019 in Royal Holloway, University of London. Sofiya was still in her last year of university so the couple will honeymoon later. Thank you for photo Sofiya.

sending

your

beautiful

From left to right: Toby (96-11), Charlie (91-06) and Guy (93-08). Sons of Michael and Sarah, History & Art teachers and former Houseparents of MC, a true Rossallian family. From nursery, to the young men they are today, these brothers have always embraced the Rossall spirit.

To organise a visit please email alumni@rossall.org.uk

In Memoriam Dr Malcolm Harrop (J & DC 45-54) Malcolm was the eldest son of Ted Harrop, member of Common Room 1944-1970, Housemaster of James House and one-time O.R. Secretary. Mal won a scholarship from JS and was in Dragon-Crescent House. He was in the School Choir, the 1st XI Ross hockey, 2nd XV Rugby, and was active in school drama. He was one of three CCF cadets to represent the school at the Queen’s Coronation in 1953 stationed in the Mall. He left in summer 1954, having won a place at Pembroke, Cambridge to read History. Mal did his National Service in the RAF, becoming fluent in Russian at the Joint Services School of Languages, learning wireless operations at RAF Wythall and then spent the rest of his time at RAF Habbaniyah in Iraq. After leaving Cambridge he was briefly a graduate trainee in retailing before moving to Pilkington’s Glass. He was sent by Pilkington’s to Australia where he remained for the rest of his life. Pilkington’s, Australia, was absorbed by ACI, Australian Consolidated Industries, and Malcolm became their Public Relations Officer. He then set up his own company, PR Link, but kept the ACI franchise. He ran the Monsalvat Jazz Festival for several years and the Melbourne Jazz Festival. He also staged the Australian Open Squash Championships in Melbourne and received the Order of Australia for services to conservation, sport, jazz and education. The award honoured his work as co-chairman of the International Public Relations Association world task force on the environment and his authorship of the “Code of Nairobi” which is a guide to communicating on environmental and sustainable development. He encouraged and promoted females in sport and received a Prime Ministerial Women and Sports award in 1994. Mal retired from PR Link at the age of 70 and then decided to embark on a doctorate at La Trobe

University. He submitted his thesis on the history of glass making in Australia and received his doctorate at the age of 75. His thesis was then published as “Good things come from glass” and the book was runner up in an economic history prize in Australia. With time now on his hands Mal realised that the elders in his community needed some stimulation and he was the moving spirit in setting up the Eltham/ Nillimbook U3A. Until recently he was tutoring on the History of Jazz, a passionate interest. Mal married Valerie Hawkins whom he met while working in Liverpool. They were married in Rossall School Chapel by Canon CE Young, his former Headmaster. Sadly he died in Melbourne on Saturday, 16th March after a brave fight with Parkinson’s at the age of 83. Mal is survived by Val and their two daughters, Jacquie, a lawyer and Pippa, an interior designer and two granddaughters, Lily and Ruby. Just before he died, Mal had a visit from his brother John Harrop ( JS & DC 48-58). He greatly enjoyed the visit and was “on good form”. John is the author of this piece. Floreat Rossallia!

Charles Ainsworth (DC 52-54) Clive Ian Bruce (M 54-60) Revd Graham Canham (DC 1973-93, CR) Michael Cliffe (Dr 38-42) James Eardley (R 36-39) Peter S Fallon (PP, JS &A 57-67) Major Ian Skene Gibb (SE 40-47) Barry Howard (35-43) John Hughes (DC 47-49) John Knowles (J & DC 51-61) Robert (Bob) William Lavender (SE 47-51) Charles Ewan Mander (DC 53-56) David Morrey (J & M 50-57) C.A.J. (Tony) Patrickson (J & DC 55-63) Arthur Edwin Sealy Lett (A 45-48) Michael Kingsley Smith (MC 43-47) Brian Wolstenholme (DC 39-46)

We aim to print all announcements as accurately as possible, based on the information provided. Any omissions or errors will be amended and re-printed in the next edition.

Rupert Joseph Lucas (Sam) Eccleston (MC 42-47) Journalist, printer, publisher, community player and accomplished sportsman. Born on 17th June 1929, Sam was educated at Rossall School and often recounted great memories of his time in Maltese Cross and his house master Bob Nevett. Sam (Rupert Joseph Lucas) Eccleston, died on 6th April 2019 aged 89 and was a celebrated contributor to communities, both at home and abroad. Sam will be greatly missed by family and many friends from the sporting, Rossall, Rotarian and business circles. Sam excelled at Latin, English and Sport and followed his education with military service in Egypt before returning to manage the family business in 1952. The local newspaper “Whitchurch Herald” was an Eccleston family legacy established in 1869, a paper launched ahead of its national counterparts such as The Sunday Telegraph and The Daily Mail. Sam continued to develop the well-loved news sheet and under his guidance, the newspaper’s influence and its general printing and commercial stationery business, steadily progressed; at one time a separate Wem and Ellesmere editions of the Herald were produced. Today, the newspaper is owned by Newsquest (North Wales) Media Group. Sam thrived on people and held an extraordinary sense of responsibility towards the community. From a young man, Sam has played a significant part in the Whitchurch Shropshire branch of the Rotary Club, working on many local and international initiatives

and had been commended for his 65 years of support, a length of service unlikely to be achieved easily by others. Sam was an active member and trustee of several other clubs and associations, a Whitchurch Freemason, Whitchurch Cricket Club member and was an exuberant and skilled sportsman. Sam devoted over two decades to coaching children, teens and adults and passing his love of sports onto the next generation of players. A passionate rugby player, Sam was President of Whitchurch Rugby Club for 20 years, from 1972 to 1992, and assisted in raising funds to create a larger, functional clubhouse in line with the Club’s growing success. Sam wrote and published The History of Whitchurch Rugby Club depicting the club’s history since its inception. Sam married local girl Margaret Vera Henri on 5th June 1954 and they would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in this summer. The couple had four children together and Sam is survived by his wife Margaret, son Andrew Eccleston (Maltese Cross 1974-78) and daughters Jan Wynn and Sarah Gothard, His second daughter, Lynne Downes, sadly died at the early age 37 years. The family enjoy ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Sam could often be seen behind his beloved daily edition of The Daily Telegraph and was proud of his local town. Friends and family will remember Sam for his appreciative and caring nature, sense of humour and fun, intelligent turn of phrase, empathy and a commitment to sport and to the community around him.

Maltese Cross ‘House Room’ Monitors, 1947. Sam Eccleston: second from the left, back row. We aim to print all announcements as accurately as possible, based on the information provided. Any omissions or errors will be amended and re-printed in the next edition.

Notices Rossallians Online You may have heard of our new network, Rossallians Online, where you can re-connect with friends, read news articles and book for future events. To join the ever growing community of Rossallians Online please go to https://rossallians.org.uk to register.

Visitors You are always welcome to visit Rossall School, however, we must ask that you book your visit with Alumni Relations Manager, Julie Barkhuizen.

https://rossallians.org.uk

When visiting the School, you will need to bring identification.

Issue 01

The Old Rossallian Magazine There will be a further issue of the Old Rossallian Magazine in January as usual, but from next year this will be an annual publication every January. You will be able to find updates of news and events on Rossallians Online at https://rossallians.org.uk throughout the year.

September 2019 A C O - E D U C AT I O N A L D AY A N D B O A R D I N G SCHOOL FOR PUPILS AGED 2 TO 18

The House Singing Thriller Our annual House singing competition saw Dragon house place for the first time, but who took the trophy?

Old Rossallians Remembered To mark the Centenery of the First World War Rossall remembered the 298 ‘Old Boys’ who fell during the War.

The School Magazine The new look School magazine, The Rossallian, has also been updated, as well as returning to its original name. The Rossallian will now be published bi-anually featuring a section dedicated to OR news selected from Rossallians Online.

“The School is entering an exciting phase in its development and this includes an uncompromising focus on outstanding teaching and learning.” – Jeremy Quartermain, Headmaster –

For the latest notices, join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

Quiz Test your Rossall knowledge and send your answers to Rossallians Online. https://rossallians.org.uk

RosShop: celebrating 175 years of Rossall School

Winner to be chosen at random from all correct entries and you can choose from £50 of merchandise from RosShop.

1. Name the first Rossall School Captain 2. Who wrote The Carmen, music and lyrics and in which year? 3. Where is Ikey’s Tower? 4. What is the School Motto and its translation? 5. Where is Naworth and when and why is it part of Rossall history? 6. What was the first use of Newell Court and in which year? 7. Who is Nick Lister? 8. When was the Rossall Rocket fired? 9. What is the Rossall connection to Wimbledon? 10. What is a Throdkin? Good luck!

Closing date 30.11.2019 To enter, join Rossallians Online: https://rossallians.org.uk

Dates for your Diary Date

Event & Venue

Contact & Book

2nd October

Autumn Golf Meeting Fleetwood Golf Club 12 Noon for 12.30pm