Message from the Headmaster

Messahe from the Headmaster OU A Message from the Headmaster

Richard Harman, Headmaster

It’s an interesting time to be running a Public School. Those of you who are responsible for the livelihoods of many others will perhaps understand some of the challenges which we face in moving forward in an era of almost unprecedented economic insecurity. I find myself constantly recalling the catch phrase of Ben Zander, OU, who spent several days with us exactly a year ago, speaking to the entire school on how to respond positively to life’s difficulties. Rather than spoiling for a fight, or sinking into gloom, Ben encouraged us to embrace every setback or problem as a challenge, to throw up our hands and shout ‘how fascinating!’

How fascinating it is indeed to look for and to look after what endures in a time when even rock solid institutions are under threat. In my third year at Uppingham, I am encouraged by the times we live in to look deeply at what it is that we do particularly well, and what it is that we must prioritise and hold on to above all else. The spirit of this school is astonishing, and that spirit is generated and nurtured in the boarding experience. In my third year, I’m now willing to bet that we do boarding better than any other school in the country. The sense of community and belonging that each house generates, the quality of interaction and care between adults and pupils, particularly within the house and around those tables at lunchtime, is probably second to none. If you get a chance to see the new school promotional DVD – clips of which will soon be on the website – I think you’ll agree that the connection between staff and pupils appears again and again as an essential part of our ‘educational DNA’, to use a much bandied about term which actually was invented here at Uppingham. about the business of developing the Academies programme, and we were very pleased to welcome him as our Guest of Honour at Speech Day this year. It was a chance also to celebrate the establishment of the Uppingham Collegiate, by which we are linked in partnership (though not direct sponsorship) with a number of Academies in Leicester, Northampton and Grimsby, which in turn are supported by prominent OUs. The Housemaster of West Bank, Steve Allen, is co-ordinating this work at our end and we very much hope that this exciting initiative will continue to bear fruit. It means that Uppngham is engaged in the wider educational world in a practical and positive way that helps to spread our values and ethos ever wider.

We believe in what we do here so strongly that we are going to continue to celebrate, invest in, and develop further what we already do well. I want every parent in the country who considers boarding to consider Uppingham, and I want them to be impressed with what they see when they look around. I also want to ensure that every child, insofar as it is humanly possible, enjoys boarding at Uppingham and to that end we are increasingly vigilant and imaginative in the endless work of encouraging good neighbourliness in the young. We have recently rolled out, training in counselling for staff, who are then training sixth form pupils as peer counsellors, and I am excited about the potential of these trained pupils to pick up on problems the adults might be missing.

I have also invested time and resources into leadership training for our pupils. Many of you have extensive experience of leadership, the seeds of which I hope were planted in your time at School. The high point of our leadership development last year was the aforementioned visit of Ben Zander, who spent a weekend at Uppingham (prior to addressing world leaders at the economic forum in Davos; they certainly needed to hear his message about the Art of Possibility!). He very graciously gave of his time and huge energies in various arenas, addressing every one of our pupils and staff, conducting our orchestra and encouraging pupils to have a go as well. Over meals in West Deyne he was able to lay a few ghosts to rest. I cannot recommend highly enough the potential value of coming back to your old school as an adult. Especially when you give of who you are now, you can put to rest any anxieties about who you were then. results this year, we know that some of our academic facilities will need investment in the coming years and it is the need for improved facilities in Science and also in Sport that drives my vision for new development on the Western side of the school. The vision is for a series of ‘Western Quads’ to mirror the lovely 19th Century quads at the heart of the school, and this is a vision which inspires not only the whole School community, but the entire town. We have been so lucky to have the tireless energies of the Uppingham Foundation, the OU community and the Trustee body behind this project. And I have been very fortunate as Headmaster to have had a seamless transition of Chairman of Trustees; I am absolutely delighted to be working with Stephen Dorrell at such an important time in the School’s history.

The first stage of the project – a new Sports Centre, Leicester Pavilion and associated changes to sports fields and parking– went through the planning process successfully, and the Trustees have given the go ahead in principle. By September, individual donors had pledged around £9 million to the project. How fascinating, then, that this project is due to kick off precisely as the economy looks most perilous! We are watching carefully and constantly revising our figures as we calculate the best time to begin. Plans for the Sports Centre are on display on the OU website; do have a look at the future of Uppingham there. And do your best to ensure a vibrant future for this great School in any way you can – by encouraging your friends to have a look for their children, by sending your own, by sharing your wisdom and talents with us in many different arenas, and of course by making whatever contribution you can to our vision.

Please do read the tributes to Colin Williams elsewhere in this issue. He is I think, the epitome of the great OU – a man who has given back so much to his school, but, I hope and believe, has also received a real sense of purpose, and has enjoyed both a rewarding sense of involvement and a good measure of fun in the process.

I so greatly appreciate the chance to meet you, at dinners, at Speech Day, at sporting events, and sometimes just by chance. You are the great band of ambassadors for Uppingham School, and I am sure you are embodying the enduring values you learned here, in the face of the anxieties of the moment. In fact, it is those very values that will see us all through whatever challenges

OU Who? What? Where? News from the Association and Foundation OU News

Development Director’s Message

In 2011 the Uppingham Association will celebrate its 100th anniversary, a major landmark for what must be one of the most successful alumni associations in the country.

As Richard Boston outlines in his section, more and more OUs are attending events, we have a huge number of OUs signed up to a dedicated website and in all spheres, from politics to business and from sport to showbusiness, OUs are making an impact in the UK and across the world. To cap it all, even in this most difficult economic climate, we have received record support this year for the Headmaster’s plans for the Western Quad. Uppingham is thriving at present and it is evident that OUs feel proud of their School and want to be involved, either through attending OU functions or through donating to the Uppingham Foundation.

In the course of the year we often see OUs making impromptu visits to the School and without fail they seem to enjoy their walks around the School House Quad, through the Chapel and the Colonnade and into the Memorial Hall and Library – the heart of the School is the same for whichever generation of pupil returns. The Paul David Music School overlooking the Masons’ lawn is widely appreciated (even if it stands on what was Mrs Alibone’s buttery), but this is the one new addition to the wonderful architecture of the main quads.

Few OUs however see their spirits revived when they visit the area of the science block, sports centre and other buildings along Stockerston Road, and indeed many OUs do not include this part of the School on their tours. This is the key to the Headmaster’s plans for the Western Quad: making the whole School a place to be proud of, to encourage and attract the best and to bring out the best in all who have the privilege of studying here. The staff and pupils of Uppingham are fully behind these plans and it is clear that many OUs feel likewise.

Support for the plans for the Western Quad has come in many forms, such as via gifts over the telephone during our summer telephone campaign or indeed an increasing number of bequests which will play a vital role in the next stage of the development, namely the new science centre. For confidentiality’s sake we do not publicise all the gifts which the School receives through the wills of OUs, but we always feel honoured that OUs are remembering the School in this very personal way.

We are in fact still learning of new ways to offer support – an OU in the legal profession has informed us of a very taxeffective way of supporting Uppingham via one’s annuity, but due to the complex nature of this means of giving I would ask that anyone interested should contact me for more details. Whichever way OUs decide to support their School, the donation is of course very much appreciated.

In closing I would just like to say thank you to those OUs around the world who offer their generous hospitality whenever representatives from the School turn up on their doorstep. In particular I’d like to offer my thanks to Michael Royce (SH 60) and Sam Blyth (L 69) in Toronto and David Li (H 54) and Anthony Nightingale (L 61) in Hong Kong for all their kindness this year and indeed to Rick Tatham (WB 77) who has been a great help in planning the Dubai reunion in February 2009.

If you would like to know more about the Western Quad campaign, the OU website or forthcoming events, or indeed you’d like to pay a visit to your School, please do feel free to get in touch. As the OU Association approaches its centenary, both the School and indeed the OU network are in great form and with your help we are sure to keep it this way.

Patrick Mulvihill

Secretary’s Message

I am pleased to be able to report another full and busy year for the Association. Since we last went to press we have attracted over 600 OUs and their partners to a wide range of events across the country.

The London dinner now well established at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, attracted a full house in early February. This must be one of the best value evenings in London, a stylish setting, first class cuisine, excellent service combined with a convivial atmosphere. I hope many of you will support it this coming year when the Chairman will be Nick Hinchliffe (Fgh 71), past President of the Uppingham Veterans Rifle Club. An appropriate choice as the club will be in its 50th year. The UVRC is one of our most prestigious and successful clubs which has provided an almost continuous supply of National and International shots over the years.

The North West dinner followed London in early March before the team moved back to London where younger OUs gathered for an AMS evening (Alternative Music Society) at The 100 Club, this was organised by Ben Fry (F 96). The first ever South West dinner followed in April at Rick Stein’s (WD 60) Bistro in Padstow. The evening will be repeated next year and I thoroughly recommend it to those living in the area or those who manage to tie it in with an Easter holiday in Cornwall.

Speech Day and Founder’s Day saw the introduction of a new format for OUs where we offered a snack lunch following the drinks reception in the marquee on the Chapel Lawn. This provided an alternative venue to Houses – House events on Speech Day are parent orientated and non-parent OUs have

Patrick Mulvihill Development Director

01572 820615 pdm@uppingham.co.uk

Richard Boston Association Secretary

01572 820679 rasb@uppingham.co.uk

Nicola Tyers OU Events & Membership Coordinator

01572 820616 nmt@uppingham.co.uk

Laurie Prashad Development Officer

01572 820617 ltp@uppingham.co.uk

commented over the years that in many cases they would like a central option to congregate and socialise rather than being in Houses. The snack lunch proved popular this year, but next year we will extend it to a full buffet lunch for those who wish to take up the offer. It should be emphasised that OUs are still most welcome in Houses if they prefer to visit them.

Late June saw a large turnout of Constable OUs to the 150th Anniversary of the House. They had the opportunity to tour the House and see its transformation into a boarding house for girls. Whilst many were saddened by the end of an era, everyone was impressed by the reordering of the House and the new extension and hopefully were reassured that it is still their ‘spiritual’ home where they would be welcomed at any time when visiting Uppingham in the future.

September saw the Class of the Mid 50’s reunion in Uppingham. Instigated and organised by Willie Fulton (C 58) this proved a first rate occasion since a number had not met up since they left Uppingham fifty years ago! The event had the added bonus as the gathering watched the School 1st XV beating Haileybury 55-3 on a glorious sunny afternoon on the Leicester.

This was closely followed by a select but very enjoyable dinner at Rudding Park for the Yorkshire OUs. A well established function heralded in October, the Over 60s Lunch at the Cavalry & Guards Club in London. A good turnout ensured a very successful occasion.

Dawn Wilson (nee Keene) (Fd 80) initiated a ‘25 years on’ lunch at Uppingham - this proved something of a déjà-vu experience for your Secretary who had taught many of those present! Many of the assembled company are current or prospective parents so there was a great deal to talk about. Yet another fine day weatherwise, but sadly on this occasion the OUs witnessed the 1st XV being defeated by Stamford!

The second Canadian Dinner took place on 20 October in Toronto, kindly hosted by Sam Blyth (L 69) at his home. including London, Dubai, Founders Day and the West Deyne 150th Anniversary. Do get your friends together and make up parties for these events and if anyone has ideas for a themed reunion of any sort please get in touch with either myself or Nicola Tyers as we welcome such initiatives and we will support them if they are considered viable.

The OU website continues to attract a steady stream of OUs registering for it, we now have nearly 1700 signed up. If you are amongst those who have not yet registered please do so, it is a splendid way of keeping in touch with each other and is fully secure. All you need to do is to email us at OU@uppingham.co.uk to get on line.

At this years meeting of the Association’s Committee in June it was agreed that we should publish a supplement to the School Roll covering 1996 – 2009. Getting permission to publish information on individuals for this period will be relatively straightforward, it would be a near impossible task to republish the whole Roll as we would have to seek permission from every OU to satisfy the Data Protection Act. I refer to the current 11th Edition of the Roll frequently as it is still surprisingly accurate.

Your Committee is made up of the following members:- Chairman (The Headmaster), Secretary (Richard Boston (B 56)), and Members (Mike Higgs (Fgh 69), Basil Towers (Hf 71), David Gavins (LH 73), Dawn Wilson (Fd 80), Fiona Bettles (Fd 86), James Hartley (B 92), Alasdair Coutts-Wood (WD 96), Ben Fry (F 96)).

If you have any issues you wish brought to the Committee’s attentions please channel them via myself for their consideration.

A reminder that the Association’s Bursary, set up last year, to assist OU parents with children currently in the School should serious misfortune occur, is available as a potential source of some financial relief. Enquires should be directed, in confidence, to Jerry Rudman, Registrar, in the first instance

I would like to put on record the outstanding work that Nicola Tyers has done for the Association since her appointment in July 2007. It took her no time at all to get measure of her job and I am most grateful to her for her efficiency and diligence. 2009 will see the return to a more ordered existence where we can all enjoy each other’s company at the various OU occasions at home and overseas.

Richard Boston (B 56) Secretary

A Tribute to Colin Williams

Colin Williams (L 55) retired as Chairman of Trustees this year after a long and distinguished career as a Trustee. He was appointed in 1991 and elected Chairman in November 1999. His association with the School spans more than half a century. The son of Graham Colin Williams (L 26), he came to Uppingham as a pupil in September 1955. Colin’s son Alex (Fgh 92) and daughter Sophie (L 97) were themselves pupils at Uppingham.

As Chairman, Colin has presided over a period of great change and success. He was a strong supporter of the move to coeducation, which led directly or indirectly to the building of Samworths’, the Fairfield wing, the Language Centre, New House, the Paul David Music School, the Williams Studio Theatre and the conversion of Constables, as well as setting up the School’s computer network; an investment all told of £25million over the last 7 years. Plans for the Western Quad, starting with a new Sports Centre received his support immediately. Colin has led by example. Having been instrumental in setting up the Foundation in 1999, he has supported the School with extraordinary generosity. The naming of the Williams Studio Theatre is only small recognition for Colin’s continuing contribution.

It is, however, for his affection that we know Colin best. Affection as a friend, and his affection for the School, which he has guided with consummate skill for many years. We salute him, and wish Colin and Gerlinda well.

Who? What? Where?

It is always good to hear from OUs, wherever you are! Please keep the news coming in.

Norman Knight (SH 27), a former winner of the Public Schools Fives Championships (partnered by John Gillespie (H28)) now lives in Durban, South Africa. We are very grateful to Norman for sending in a wonderful collection of mint-condition photographs of School House and sports teams of his era. venerable Mr Bollands in the School woodwork shop where he spent so much of his free time in the late 1940s. He is now the Chairman of the Edward Barnsley Educational Trust which makes fine furniture in the traditions of the Art and Craft movement and provides training of apprentices to the highest level in the art and skill of cabinet making. developed an enormous reputation as a lecturer on leadership, and his best-selling book, The Art of Possibility, has been translated into 15 languages. Benjamin addressed the entire school, pupils, teachers and support staff during his visit to Uppingham in November 2007. He is also a conductor of The Boston Philharmonic Orchestra.

Jonathan Robertshaw (H 55) is retired and is now volunteering with Mission to Seafarers at Falmouth and other charities.

School House 1928

School House U16 Rugby XV 1928

Ian Miller (WD 41) has lived in Zimbabwe since August 1953 and says that despite the desperate state the country is in the sun shines most days!!

John Godrich (WB 44) is living in Somerset and is singing with the Minehead Chorus and participating in the University of the Third Age play. He enjoys reading, swimming and keeping watch on the local council. John would love to hear from any of his contemporaries, on email godrich.email@virgin.net.

Norman Harrington (B 44) has been Chairman of Leicestershire Cricket Society for two years. The society increases in numbers every year and invites well-known speakers to its meetings. Humphrey Sladden (B 45)

John Griffiths (LH 47) has had his 14th book published named “Tea: The Drink That Saved The World” and is listed in the 2008 version of Who’s Who.

William Sidgwick (Hf 48) has been awarded a Life Fellowship by the Trustees of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust "in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the work of the Trust." Being involved in recruitment he managed to recruit 2,500 new members over fifteen years

David Ellis (F 52) completed the 222 Corbetts (Scottish hills between 2,500 - 3,000ft whose summits stand clear of all surrounding ground by 500ft) in May 2008. Headmaster and Colin Williams (L 55)

Colin Williams (L 55) officially opened The Williams Studio Theatre on 30 November 2007. Colin has been an invaluable supporter of the School, and the arts in particular.

Reverend Anthony Russell (M 56) has been the Bishop of Ely since 2000 and is a visitor to a number of the Cambridge colleges (the Bishop of Ely founded the University in the 12th century offering hospitality to those escaping the Town & Country riots in Oxford). He has recently taken up his seat in the House of Lords and has been told he is the only member of Upper House who lives on the Fen.

Roger Neill (B 57) works as an international management consultant in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He is married and has a five year old daughter, Dora.

John Suchet (Fgh 57) is now presenting the Channel 5 quiz show Going for Gold.

Patrick Barlow (Fgh 60) adapted the Alfred Hitchcock film “The 39 Steps” for the West End and went on to win the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy in 2007. The show has now hit Broadway.

People, First Tuesday, Network First, Real Stories and Everyman. He was also the original deviser and producer of the hospital series Jimmy’s. He has made programmes for the BBC, ITV, Channels 4 & 5, National Geographic and the Discovery Channel. His programmes have won many international awards including BAFTA and International EMMY nominations. He has recently been appointed Visiting Professor in Documentary Production at the University of Lincoln.

Chris Price (WB 60) left Uppingham and gained an Honours Degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Nottingham. The largest part of his career was with British United Shoe Machinery (BUSM) in Leicester. He then went on to join RollsRoyce plc for its Industrial and Marine Power Group and took up the position of Director of Engineering and Technology for Energy Businesses. He recently retired from his role as Executive Vice President of Engineering and Technology. Chris is a Liveryman of one of the modern City of London Livery Companies, The Worshipful Company of Engineers and has been a member of its governing Court for several years and is the Company’s current Middle Warden. Chris was awarded an OBE in the 2008 New Year Honours for services to engineering.

Adrian Dixon (Fgh 61) has been elected by the Fellows of Peterhouse, Cambridge as the 51st known Master from 26 June 2008. He left Uppingham to read medicine at King’s College, graduating in 1969 before undertaking clinical medical studies in St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London. He then pursued general medicine in Nottingham, before specialising in radiology. After spells in paediatric radiology at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and in computed tomography, he became a Lecturer in the University of Cambridge Department of Radiology in 1979. Since 1994 he has been Professor of Radiology at Cambridge.

Martin Stephen (Hf 62) is High Master of St Paul’s School in London and is the author of fifteen books on English literature and naval history as well as four novels featuring his seventeenth-century hero Henry Gresham. He has unfortunately suffered a severe stroke and has now written a book “The Diary of a Stroke” which is an unprecedented insight into the medical condition.

Andrew Welch (H 62) was awarded the 2007 Mountbatten Maritime Literature Prize by Countess Mountbatten for his book 'The Royal Navy in the Cod Wars' at the Desmond Wettern Media Awards in London. Andrew is a retired Royal Navy Captain, & Fellow of the Nautical Institute, who lives on the West Hoe in Plymouth. He, and his wife Carole moved to Plymouth in November 1994 when he took up command of HMS Cambridge, the Royal Navy's live-firing Gunnery School at Wembury. ‘The Royal Navy in the Cod Wars’ was published by Maritime Books of Liskeard (www.navybooks.com) in November 2006.

Countess Mountbatten & Andrew Welsh (H 62)

Mike Garrs (F 63) plans to write a booklet commemorating the five OUs who won the Victoria Cross. They are :-

A.M Lascelles (M 1893) J S Collings-Wells (F 1894) G M Maling (WB 1903) T H B Maufe (WD 1912) C A W Sandys-Clarke (M 1933)

He would be pleased to hear from anyone who has information relating to these distinguished “Sons of Uppingham” and he can be contacted at 1, The Chestnuts, Nettleham, Lincoln LN2 2NH Telephone (01522) 595198 and email mike.garrs49@ntlworld.com.

Mike hopes that the booklet will be published in time for Speech Day 2011 to coincide with the centenary of the Founding of the Uppingham Association. He intends the proceeds from the sale of the proposed booklets will be shared equally between Uppingham and the Royal British Legion.

Patrick Elvin (F 63) on a previous charity walk from Sevilla to Estepona Spain March and April 2009, (1200 Kilometres in 7 weeks) and is looking for volunteers who would like to accompany him on all or part of the way which is mostly on the lesser known but very beautiful pilgrimage route of the Via de la Plata. Further information is available on www.elcamino.adana.es or contact him direct on elvins@avired.com

Christopher Tinker (Hf 63) is an authority on the music of Imogen Holst. 2007-8 was her centenary year and he has been involved with the publication of a book ‘Imogen Holst – A life in Music’ and also a CD of her music released in May 2008. Visit www.imogenholstcd.com for further details. Christopher has given lecture/recitals in many parts of the UK this year including the Royal College of Music, an establishment he went to after leaving Uppingham.

Julian Baskcomb (H 69)

Julian Baskcomb (H 69) has moved to France after 22 years in Leicestershire, first as a sports journalist and then as editor/director of a publishing/printing firm producing various Premiership football programmes, sports history books and handbooks for many leading clubs including Leicester Tigers, Leicester City & Leicestershire CCC. Now, with wife Jude he has renovated a 17th century watermill with three gite/cottages and a carp lake in the Loire Valley near Loches and invites any OU's interested in taking a fishing and/or family holiday in France to look at www.lemoulinholidays.com

James Parton (LH 69) has, after 30 years, left law firm Lynch, Gilardi & Grummer and set up a new law firm in California.

Stephen Fry (F 70) appeared on the silver screen in the Uppingham Speech Day production of the Olivier Award winning musical ‘Return to the Forbidden Planet’. As members of the Lower Fifth and Fourth Form took to the skies in The Starship Albatross, Stephen appeared beside them in

scenes recorded in the QI studios 10 days before the show opened on May 21st 2008.

Stephen Fry (F 70)

Photo: Rupert Watts

Michael Oughtred (C 73) is currently President of Yorkshire & Humber Chambers of Commerce and Chairman of Hull Truck Theatre.

Dominic Keating (WD 74) graduated from the University College, London with First Class Honours with Distinction. He tried various jobs before deciding to be a professional actor. Following a major role on the series Star Trek: Enterprise, where he played Lieutenant Malcolm Reed he has appeared in Heroes, Prison Break and Holby City.

Philip Maw (WD 75) is running the London Marathon in April 2009 raising money for the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. Anyone wishing to sponsor him please visit www.justgiving.com/philmaw.

John Wolfendale (F 75) has moved back into property with the launch of Property Investment Management Spain (www.clickpims.com). During the last ten years he built a travel company, starting from scratch, out of Granada Spain and this has now migrated to the UK (www.danceholidays.com). He is happily married to a Spanish girl, Lola, and has two boys Richard and Alex and lives in Granada. He is embedded in the local community and is also involved in charity work, skiing, and many entrepreneurial projects. He extends a warm invitation to all OUs with common interests to get in touch.

Mark Colquhoun (WB 76) has, over the years, started many businesses only to sell them on a few years or months later. He helped to introduce laminated windscreen repairs (NOVUS) into the UK in 1987 & was a founding member of ABGRO (Associated British Glass Repairers Organisation) which pressured insurance companies in to waiving their normal excess for a repair rather than a complete windscreen replacement, making such things free to all fully comprehensively insured drivers, saving millions for the insurance companies and also saving landfill sites the millions of tons of broken windscreens. His sister company (Superstlyle UK) supplied graphics & logos to racing teams such as the Williams GP team, the Silk Cut Le Mans Jaguar, Le Mans Mazdas & the Duccatti UK motorcycle racing team to name but a few. He sold these businesses in 1999, the thought of retirement seemed a good one at the time and he spent the following three years travelling the globe including a year in India & Nepal. He now lives with his six year old son Finley in Cobo, West Coast of Guernsey, working as a landscaper. Mark’s email address is monktb66@hotmail.com & he would love to hear from any of his contemporaries.

James Whitaker (L 76) has been appointed to the role of National Selector for England’s Test cricket team. James, who captained the 1st XI while at Uppingham, is well qualified for the role. After Uppingham he went on to Captain Leicestershire CCC and led them to the top of the County Championship on two occasions in 1996 and 1998. He also played one Test for England against Australia during the successful Ashes campaign “down under” in 1986-7 and two One-Day Internationals against India and Pakistan in 1987. He has also managed the England A and U19 Teams.

Peter Watson (F 77) and Robert Friske (F 77) have re-united in business and are working together near Cambridge helping owner managers to buy and sell businesses. Peter, a Chartered Accountant with extensive corporate finance experience, established Prism Corporate Broking following a management buy-out from an AIM listed group in 2006 and was joined in December by Robert, the two having stayed in touch since leaving Uppingham. Robert spent the previous 11 years in business consulting, primarily to the SME sector. As Peter says "Ever since a memorable house dinner comedy skit I knew we would work well together, and whilst the material is now rather more serious, it is still great to feed off each others ideas." Prism is much more than just a ‘match maker’. It provides extensive advice on preparation for sale, merger or acquisition, identification and vetting of potential buyers or sellers, plus continued support and advice throughout the negotiations and transaction processes. If any OUs are looking to sell a business or make an acquisition, please do contact them through: www.prismcorporatebroking.com. to represent him on the board of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games. When asked about the appointment the Mayor commented: “I promised Londoners I would ensure that the investment we are making in the 2012 Games offers the best value for money and David is just the man for the job. Having cofounded one of our most well known household names and turned it into a huge success, his skills will be vital in helping to deliver the legacy on which the success of the London Games will be judged.

James Averdieck (F 79) the founder and Managing Director of Gü Chocolate Puds, was one of the panel of three on the BBC 2 spin-off programme The Apprentice: You’re Fired on 23rd April 2008. On the show, hosted by Adrian Chiles, James was joined by Carol Thatcher and Mark Price (MD of Waitrose) to assess how the team tackled Week 5. James Averdieck launched Gü Chocolate Puds in 2003, going from £0 to £3m turnover in his first year!

James Averdieck ( F 79)

Adam Black (L 81) runs Feather & Black, a chain of 35 bedroom furniture shops. He is living in London and expecting his fourth child. Ben Black (B 82) runs My Family Care, a company specialising in back up childcare and eldercare for corporate clients. He is married with twins and is living in London. Oliver Black (L 85) works with his brother Ben running Tinies, the UK’s largest provider of childcare and crèches. He is married with one daughter and living in London. Daniel Black (B 87) runs his own business Black & Blum and is married and has relocated back to Rutland.

Neil Aitken (L 81) has had a change of career and is now working as Finance Director at law firm Kester Cunningham John. Any OUs requiring legal advice are invited to contact Neil on neil.aitken@kcj.co.uk. Neil chaired the OU London Dinner in 2008 where he spoke of his career as the Director of Finance and Administration for the British Olympic Association,

Tim Clarke (F 83) has been working in the “mega” yacht industry now for 18 years. He spent 9 years as professional crew on a number of different super-yachts, both private and charter and since 1999 he has been shore-based working in yacht charter, sales and management. He joined a new company 3 years ago called Ocean Independence at its formation and it now has 10 offices worldwide and deals with all aspects of large-yacht ownership.

Andrew Bain (Hf 86) developed a love for singing whilst a member of the Uppingham School Choir. Now he’s hit the national news headlines after being signed up by a top music record label for his operatic rendition of pop songs. Andrew has been taken on by SonyBMG after the firm heard his opera version of Prince’s Purple Rain. Andrew has been practising dentistry as well as singing in West End choruses and amateur opera for ten years. His album ‘Andrew Bain presents Modern Classics’, released in November 2008, includes operatic versions of songs from Abba, the Smiths and Snow Patrol. He has recently released a single “Chasing Cars”. For more information please visit www.andrewbainmusic.com.

James Woodcock (F 84) married Alexandra in 2006 and has a daughter Jemima born 2007. He and his family are currently ‘Houseparents’ at Summer Fields Prep School in Oxford,

Thomas Haywood (C 85) (Far right)

Thomas Haywood (C 85) is an amateur baseball umpire for Great Britain, umpiring at games including the German Baseball Open 2007 in Regensburg and also on the governing body for umpires in the UK. He is currently living in Edinburgh and has set up a business as a photographer. To contact Thomas visit www.thomashaywood.com.

Johnny Hon (H 85) is Executive Producer of the new George Bush biopic “W” which was released in October 2008.

Harry Sowerby (WD 85) has set up British Military Fitness an outdoor fitness company held in over 60 parks throughout the UK and South Africa. He has also served in Iraq 2004 and Afghanistan 2006.

Robert Saunders (SH 86) started to read chemistry at Manchester Victoria University but changed to microbiology and proceeded to complete a Masters. After starting a PhD at the University of Salford he changed to the University of Giessen in Germany and is currently working as a medical writer for Schwarz-Pharma in Dusseldorf.

John Mitchell (B 86) runs a fine art publishing company in North Nottinghamshire with his wife Bridget. They published and launched their first book last year at an exhibition in London’s West End and is in the process of putting together two further books for launch during 2008.

Ben Brown (LH 87) is working as Head of Operations and Quality for an Aerospace design and manufacturing company, STG Aerospace.

On Thursday 22nd May Edward Timpson (LH 87) became the latest OU to be elected to the Commons as the new MP for Crewe and Nantwich. Edward made his maiden speech in the House of Commons on 16th June 2008. Other OU MPs are Jennifer Willott (Fd 90), the Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central and the Rt Hon Stephen Dorrell (M 65) who is the Conservative MP for Charnwood in Leicestershire. eighteen months to complete and they will travel unsupported, unguided and will carry only what will fit into their rucksacks. In July 2008, Luke decided to return home and Ed is now continuing the expedition alone. He is living off what he finds growing or living in the jungle or the river. He will also be raising funds for a number of charities, including Rainforest Concern, Project Peru, the ME Association and Cancer Research UK. The latter two are dear to Ed’s heart: his father died of cancer eight years ago and his sister Janie (L 94) has battled ME for 15 years.

Gareth Morris (LH 89) has had a couple of very successful years’ shooting, including competing for Wales at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, and for Great Britain at the 2007 World LongRange Championships along with James Watson (L 88) and Nick Hinchliffe (Fgh 71) at which John Webster (C 70) was umpire for the team match. Gareth is currently studying for an MBA at Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge.

Sasha Wilkins (Fd 89) has been appointed as the launch executive style editor at WSJ, The Wall Street Journal ‘s new luxury and style magazine which launched in September 2008.

Helen Rowlands (J 89) is a Consultant in cardinal intensive care at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Rosie Lang (J 89) has been married for nearly four years and has one son, Toby born January 2007. She works (part time) as a Business Development Management for the accountancy firm BDO Stoy Hayward.

Piers Predeaux (H/L 89) is married to Gail and works in London as an Interior Design Tutor at KLC School of Design.

Elliot Cowan (M/L 89) won rave reviews for his performance in the lead role of Shakespeare’s Henry V last autumn. The

Ed Stafford (WB 89)

On 1st April 2008, Ed Stafford (WB 89) set out on a walk of more than 4,000 miles along the Amazon river with fellow explorer Luke Collyer. Ed expects it to take at least

production staged at The Royal Exchange in Manchester received a four star (out of five) rating from The Guardian. He also starred as Mr Darcy in ITV’s ‘Lost in Austen’ shown in September 2008.

Hannah Parker (Fd 90) is the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Exeter.

Nick Holt (M 90) was nominated for a BAFTA in the Break Through Talent category for directing Guys & Dolls, a documentary about men who have relationships with life size silicone dolls.

Nick Holt’s (M 90) Guys & Dolls

Andrew Kennedy (F 90) won the Song Prize at the 2006 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition and was a soloist at the Last Night of the Proms last year. Andrew returned to Uppingham in the spring to give a recital in the Chapel where he performed songs from his recently released CD ‘Dark Pastoral’.

Andrew Kennedy (F 90)

Alexander Learmonth (B 90) has been elected Chairman of the Yount Barristers’ Committee of the Bar Council for 2009. He has also recently moved chambers to New Square Chambers in Lincoln’s Inn, and practices in property, succession and personal insolvency. He still sings regularly with other OUs at St Peter’s Eaton Square.

Charlotte Lawrence (J 92) is Head of English in a private bilingual school in Argentina.

In March 2008, Mike Clear (LH 92) embarked on a very worthy cause and completed the Marathon des Sables, a 155 mile footrace over six days in temperatures of around 42 degrees. Mike completed this in aid of Kids Kidney Research which is a charity close to his heart.

Henry (WD 92) & Ted (M 99) Waite are currently on a 5 month overland trip through the African continent. Their trip, which they are doing with two other people, starts in Monaco and they will travel through Italy, Sicily, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Botswana and South Africa. They are hoping to arrive in Cape Town by December 24th.

After leaving Uppingham, John Bower (B 93) studied Chemistry at Bristol University, and was awarded First Class honours in his MSci degree, obtaining the best overall score on the course. He also wrote a "Molecule of the Month" on the drug Ibuprofen for the University's website at that time www.chm.bris.ac.uk/motm/ibuprofen/homepa ge. He then continued with research in synthetic organic chemistry, and recently obtained his PhD degree from Bristol University for this; not only was his viva examination successful, but he even received a special letter from the Bristol science faculty congratulating him on the quality of his thesis.

He left the UK in May 2007 to carry out postdoctoral research with Prof Michael Krische at the University of Texas at Austin. He has shared in 8 publications based upon his PhD research, and two more arising from his American researches have already appeared. In addition, he is currently collaborating with Prof Michael Krische in writing a chapter of a book, based upon his current research. He hopes to continue more research back in the UK later in 2008.

Sam Riley (M 93) has been awarded the 2008 British Film Industry Award (BIFA) for ‘Best Newcomer’ for his portrayal of Joy Division’s lead singer Ian Curtis in the biopic black and white film ‘Control’. At the ceremony on November 28th, at the Roundhouse in Camden, London, he also received a BIFA nomination for ‘Best Performance by an Actor in a British Independent Film’. Sam is currently working on the British science fiction film Franklyn.

Richard Madeley (now Graylin) (B 94) left Uppingham to read Philosophy at Oxford. After that he went on to stage school and is now an actor working with the Young Shakespeare Company.

Stuart McMurdo (M 94) currently manages a Golf course in Dubai, as well as being a scratch handicap golfer. In February 2006 he qualified and played in the Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament on the European Tour eventually won by Tiger Woods.

Stuart McMurdo (M 94)

Elizabeth French (Fd 95) completed three triathlons in 2007 raising money for Epilepsy Research UK. She is now working as School Accompanist at the Loughborough Endowed Schools Music School. Elizabeth French (Fd 95)

Ashley Grote (Hf 95) has recently been appointed Assistant Director of Music at Gloucester Cathedral. He also gave a recital of English music in the School’s chapel in May 2008.

Glyn Richards (B 95) is currently training to be a solicitor with international City law firm, CMS Cameron McKenna. Prior to starting work in February 2007 he went travelling after finishing two years of law school in June 2006.

Emma Cannings (L 95) was commandant of the English Under 19’s team touring South Africa. She has now retired from the Army as a Captain in the Royal Artillery having served with distinction in both Iraq and Afghanistan. She now looks forward to a career in ‘Civvy Street’.

Ben Dales (WB 95) is in a garage rock band called The Machiavellis. He and his band played at the Alternative Music Society event at the 100 Club on Oxford Street in March 2008. Ben Dales (WB 95)

James Mantle (WB 96) graduated from Bristol University in 2006 and after teaching Music at The Leys School, Cambridge for two years has recently started working for KMPG in London.

Will Fry (F 98) has driven to Nepal in a Citroen 2CV with a friend raising money for Gurkha Welfare Trust. Arriving at the end of October their adventurous two month expedition route took them to Nepal via Europe, Turkey, Iran and Northern China. Anyone wishing to support Will should visit www.justgiving.com/norfolk2nepal. at the last minute for the competition - their first practice was apparently in a minibus on the way to the audition. They were really well received by the judges in Saturday's show, singing very different styles of music to the other choirs, but had to sing again on Sunday to see if they could make it through to the next round which they unfortunately didn't.

Vilius Franckevicius (LH 99) a Soros Foundation scholar has just had a successful PhD viva at Cambridge. He has been doing his PhD for Steve Ley who is one of the top Organic Chemistry Professors in the UK.

Henry Jacobs (SH 99) studied Viticulture & Oenology at Brighton University, worked Frances wine regions extensively and for a wine merchants in Paris. He is now working for the Antique Wine Company in London specialising in liquid assets and gifts. To contact Henry please email henry@antique-wine.com.

Cathy Lamb (nee Langston) (J 99) has recently moved up to Lichfield Cathedral to take up the post of Assistant Director of Music/Assistant Organist. information their website is www.thetwosopranos.co.uk.

Tiffany Redman (L 02) & Felicity Redman (L 98)

Louise Downing (Fd 02) graduated from Bristol University with 2:1 (Hons) in Biology. She is now working for a PR firm called Ketchum in London doing Healthcare PR.

Jessica Stothert (L 03) was featured in Country Life magazine in January 2008 pictured at Portchester Castle where her parents were married and she was christened.

Jessica Stothert (L 03)

Will Fry (F 98) and friend pictured with their 2CV called ‘Dan’ Alex Davies (SH 00) and Ed Minton (SH 00)

Rock band Elliot Minor – Alex Davies (SH 00) and Ed Minton (SH 00) returned to Uppingham in May as part of the series of events held by the Alternative Music Society. Elliot Minor recently released their first album after the success of each of their five single releases charting in the UK top 40.

Tiffany Redman (L 02) and Felicity Redman (L 98) now perform as ‘The Two Sopranos’ and have performed Burlesque Opera in Christchurch, New Zealand, Adelaide, Australia and returned to sing in the Edinburgh Festival in August. For more

Thank you to all OUs that have sent in news. As we receive news during the year updates will appear on the OU website, www.olduppinghamian.co.uk so please keep visiting the site to stay up-to-date with your fellow OUs