The Flecker 2016 - Edition 2

flecker OLD DECANIAN NEWS

www.deanclose.org.uk/olddecanians

SUMMER 2016 Edition 2

News of the 2016 Old Decanian Society Anniversary Celebrations and much more inside!

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Old Decanian Society Committee 2016~17

President: Lord Bernard Ribeiro CBE (Tower, 1962)

Welcome by the

Chairman Welcome to the 2nd edition of The Flecker, where you will find all the goings on of the Society from this our 125th year.

What a busy year it has been!

Chairman Nick Akerman (Gate, 1980) - Trustee OD Secretary: Alex Hume (Dale, 2002) - Trustee

Louise Akenhead (Mead – 2008) Robin Bayliss (Tower - 1983) Garth Banks (Dale - 2002) John Denley (Court - 1988) Helen Gregory (Hatherley - 2012) Rupert Lane (Gate - 1962) John Lee (Brook - 2001) Andrew Marquand (Field - 1971) - Trustee Isobel Shayle (Mead/Shelburne - 2002) Jeremy Winter (Court - 1961)

Honorary Members: Richard Taylor - Former Deputy Head of DCS David Evans - Senior Master DCS Bradley Salisbury - Headmaster DCS Paddy Moss – Headmaster DCPS Contact Details: Please contact Alex Hume at aahume@deanclose.org.uk Old Decanian Society Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, Glos, GL51 6HE Tel: 01242 258048

I wish to take this opportunity to put on record a few thank yous. Firstly, to Jonathan Lancashire (Bursar 2000 – 2008 and DCS Headmaster 2008 – 2015) as he leaves Dean Close School, for his support in helping facilitate much of the progress of the Old Decanain Society over the past years.

I’m sure we will look back and see his era of leadership as a very positive period for School and particularly the OD Society.

I also want to express our sincere thanks to all the Committee for their hard work this year. I would particularly like to thank Peter Lynam, Henry Hodgkins and Ian Bassett-Smith who have recently stood down from the Committee. Peter has held every post possible since joining the Committee in 1956 and has been wise counsel to many of us over the years, his attention to detail and financial acumen will be sorely missed. Henry has provided both support and guidance from within the F&GP

PODS 2 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

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Pupil Old Decanians (PODs) are the link between the OD office & the pupil body at Dean Close.

Thanks to all of this year’s PODs who have help host ODs and also collected all of the leavers information so that we can keep everyone up to date with OD and School news when they leave.

Committee and I am immensely grateful for his dedication over the years. Finally, Ian BassettSmith, who retired last year from the role of Treasurer, we thank him for his prudent management of the accounts over the past 25 years.

Thank you also to the OD Ball Committee that I know put in a huge amount of work to make the OD Ball the success it was (Felicity Copp, Alex Hume, Julie Kent, Helen Gregory and Robin Bayliss and Andrew Marquand for chairing that committee). We thank them sincerely for creating a really special event so that all OD’s, whatever their age, could get together and celebrate (and get whiplash from the bumper cars!)

Finally, I am confident we have been moving in the right direction and we appreciated all the feedback we have had throughout the year. Looking ahead, we have recently had a strategy focus meeting to explore what current and future members may want from the ODS. From this meeting we decided that it would be a good idea to send out a survey to all our members. So in the coming weeks you will receive this either via email or in the post and it would be much appreciated if you could spend a few minutes to help us plan our future direction, your committee will be most grateful.

With very best wishes Nick Akerman (Gate, 1980)

Brook Court

Guy Toye (Chairman)

Dale

Patrick Bunker

Gate

Jamie Mackay

Mead

Isabel Bruce

Tower

Peter Hicks-Beach

Field

George Howell

Fawley Hatherley Shelburne Turner

Bella Acland & Kona Masui Amy Porter

Saffron Greenwood

Dionne Eboreime

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

President’s Welcome

“

...some things never change!

It was a privilege to attend and say a few words at the 125th Anniversary Ball last July and I feel that 125 years of our Society has been really well recognised and celebrated. As the dates suggest the Society was formed back in 1891 at a dinner following the first past versus present pupils’ cricket match. It was at that dinner that the association was formed and the first officers elected.

In 1892 the Society met for the first annual dinner with tickets costing 5s each. First President, Dr Flecker, made a speech at the dinner asking “Old boys to muster in strong force at the School on Speech Day. If, for nothing else, let them come to cheer the Old Boys eleven in their annual defeat at the hands of the School eleven” … Some things never change!

Today, Dean Close is a very different place. From the few founding members, the Society has grown over the years to over 7000 members across 90 countries and the School is thriving. The facilities are fantastic and the School is attracting a wide range of high calibre of pupils; the School continues to educate and train excellent sportsmen on the pitch and on horseback, talented musicians and dramatists and gifted academics.

These are exciting times for Dean Close, facilities continuing to improve but the school still remains true to its founding principles and is truly a Christian School that recognises the promise of individuals and helps young people achieve their full potential.

There are substantial development plans in progress. One of which is a new hockey pavilion which will become the home of the Old Decanian Society at the School – a fitting way to celebrate 125 years and a wonderful facility for Old Decanians to use as well as the wider school community. This is the first of an ambitious plan of developments at the School over the next 10 years.

Lord Bernard Francisco Ribeiro

A

OD Liaison Officer

Old Decanians

nother year has absolutely flown by. It seems like it was only a few weeks ago that we were putting together the 1st Edition of the Flecker. It’s been a great year to be involved with the Old Decanian Society - I guess you are only 125 once (!) To celebrate this milestone we put on lots of events - 41 events around the world to be exact - with an amazing 125th Anniversary Ball held at Dean Close to top it all off.

The main aim for this year focused on getting as many ODs engaged with the Society as possible.

With all the events that have happened since the last edition of the Flecker we have seen nearly 1000 ODs back at School and have reengaged with 300 ODs that we were not in contact with before. We hope that this increases and we will continue to communicate news and events via e-shots, social media and the website.

Another focus for us has been with business networking and careers support. Both have really taken off this year and we want to build on that moving forward. We have got such a great network and we should all be utilising this.

Also this year we have updated the rules of the Society, remodelled the funding of the Society, increased our spendable budget, simplified our accountancy process with the help of Hazlewoods accountancy firm, organised our investments (which are now held with European Wealth), invested in our marketing and branding and launched a new merchandise range.

As you can see as you read through this magazine, there is a lot going on and this could not be done without the support of the Committee, Volunteers and not to mention our Members….so thank you.

Don’t forget to keep us updated if your contact details change by updating us at www.deanclose.org.uk/update-your-details Alex Hume (Dale, 2002)

(Tower, 1962)

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

1950’s

News from the

Decades 1940’s David Barlow (Gate, 1949) visited the school in May 2015, whilst over on holiday from Jersey.

David shared this amazing abstract painting that he produced whilst at school in 1949. Painted overlooking Chapel Close which appears in abstracted form within the Chapel. The painting also includes other parts of the School (as it was in 1949), such as the Tower House and Bell Tower…..How many different parts of the School can you spot?

Letter in the Daily Telegraph (28/04/15)

by Major Neil Paxton (Brook, 1948):

The boy who saved a life in the surf at Gallipoli

My father, a lieutenant in the Essex Regiment, was shot in the head during the landings on the Gallipoli peninsula.

He was lying face downwards in the surf, drowning, when an inquisitive drummer boy turned him over to see who he was and was treated to some of the ripest language he had ever heard, proving this body was very much alive.

My father recovered and went on to win a Military Cross during the Battle of the Somme. He survived the First World War and, by 1939, was commanding a battalion at the outbreak of the Second World War. Sadly, he died in a traffic accident in Germany in 1945.

When I joined the regiment in 1951 the drummer boy, by that point bandmaster, told me this story.

Thanks to Robin McNish (Brook, 1945) for sending this into the OD office.

Robin sadly passed away this year in April 2016 (see obits).

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David Yorke (Tower, 1948) retired Chartered Surveyor and canals enthusiast, now living in Berkshire sends greetings and would be delighted to hear from any contemporaries from those ‘end of the war’ years.

Unbeaten Colts

Unbeaten colts of 1948 met up at the Lamb Hotel, Burford. Those ODs that came included: John Boswell (Walton, 1950), Robin Shears (Brook, 1949), Geoffrey Saunders (Court, 1950), Malcolm Wright (Brook, 1951), Jon Deakin (Brook, 1949) and Robert Young (Brook, 1951).

Michael Cuttell (Gate, 1956) was recently asked to participate in the RN celebrations at Yeovilton in honour of the life of Eric Winkle Brown. Eric’s life was unique in that he flew no less than 487 different types of aircraft in his naval career as a test pilot. A record unmatched. He accomplished the first landing on an aircraft carrier, firstly with a propeller driven aircraft and subsequently in a jet.

The fact that he survived was nothing less than miraculous and owed much to careful planning and becoming part of every aircraft that he strapped himself into. At one stage in his career he was even asked to fly into thunderstorms to see why aircraft broke up. Michael was invited to the event in Yeovilton because he owns one of the aircraft type that Eric flew and was subsequently asked to fly in this celebration. If you are interested in aviation the DVD 'Eric Brown - A Pilot's Story' or the new book by Paul Beaver is a must. Michael, whilst at School in the ATC (now known as CCF), learnt to fly gliders in just one week and since then became addicted to flying… ...which has lasted 63 years so far!

Alan Culpin (Brook, 1957) who lives in Colorado, USA, has got back in contact with the School.

He would love to hear from those that remember him from his time at Dean Close. If you would like to get in contact with Alan please contact the OD office.

Tim Bliss winner of ‘The Brain Prize’

Timothy Bliss (Gate, 1958), a distinguished British Neuroscientist has this year won ‘The Brain Prize’. This is one of the world’s most coveted science prizes which is awarded for outstanding contribution to European neuroscience…..and comes with € 1 million prize! He has been a member of the Physiological Society for over 40 years and has a worldwide reputation.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Hans White [CH White] (Brook, 1953) has recently sold his smallholding in Cornwall and is now fully retired in Tavistock on the edge of the moor and overlooking the valley. ‘’Boxes remain to be unpacked and a garden needs taming. Why does the work load not reduce even after the fourth time of retiring?’’

1960’s

Thanks to Neil Hardman (Tower, 1954) who sent in the below memory that he had of The Revd E. V. Tanner MC (1905). Tanner won a Military Cross and Bar when he was servicing as a Chaplain in World War I before he came back to Dean Close as a member of common room.

.....my fond memories of him are of the Sunday afternoon visits to churches around the school.

His Austin 12 (?) registration no. COU 44 carried a picnic tea and about 4 boys. The rest of us set off by bike to the first church. Had a conducted tour by Rev Tanner pointing out all the Saxon and Norman parts. Then he turfed out the 4 boys and took on board the 4 most tired looking! This happened at every stop. The visits were not local - I remember a small church near Tewksbury, and one trip was to the Roman villa at Chedworth. Coming back on a hot afternoon a small group of us stopped at a cottage and asked if we could have a drink. We received glasses of scrumpy cider!! I don't khow we managed to get back to school.

Thanks to Jeremey Winter (Court, 1961) for sending this photo in of a Christmas celebration at the Berkshire Golf Club in 2015. This is the 4th year of the meet up and it has become a tradition to play the 18th on the Red Course in the dark!

Names from L-R: Mike McMahon (Court, 1958), Nigel Newport-Black (Tower, 1980), Robert Reed (Brook, 1962), Mike Wigley (Court, 1967), Peter Smallwood (Field, 1963), Nigel Timson (Tower, 1965), Mike Bawden (Gate, 1965) and Rupert Lane (Gate, 1962). Jeremy is behind the camera!

The Revd E. Victor Tanner OD, Staff Member 1940-51

Victor Tanner came to Dean Close in Trinity 1900, leaving in Trinity 1905, going up to Emmanuel College, Cambridge. He subsequently entered Ridley Hall, Cambridge and was ordained Deacon in 1909 and Priest a year later. He served his title at St Luke, Maidstone (1909-11). He became chaplain to Weymouth College in 1911, staying until its closure in 1939, except for service as a Chaplain to the Forces (1916-19) where he won an MC and Bar. He returned to Dean Close School as Chaplain and Librarian (both posts requiring considerable fortitude) in 1940, and was Housemaster of Gate (1941-51). He spent a huge amount of his time in the house and all ‘his’ boys were ‘good boys’ according to him.

Both as a Decanian and later as a master, E.V. Tanner was a keen photographer, compiling valuable albums of his time at the School, while his passion for church architecture and his tendency for slightly unpredictable car driving became apparent. He also did much for the Field Club. He was a constant and generous host to anyone who visited him.

He retired to Preston in Dorset. He died in 1977.

It was fantastic to welcome Oliver Parkinson-Hill (Gate, 1963) and his wife Yvonne back to Dean Close. Both were over in the UK as they were invited to introduce a race called the Dawn Run Champion Mares Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival (Thursday 17th March). This race was in the memory of Dawn Run (owned by Oliver's mother Charmian Hill) who won both the Champion Hurdle and the Gold Cup. Dawn Run was the most successful race mare in the history of National Hunt racing, and was trained by Paddy Mullins in Ireland.

Barry Dravers (Brook, 1963) has retired after 51 years of working in the City of London as a Chartered Accountant, Stockbroker and Investment Banker. Enjoy your retirement Barry!

Keith Graham (Brook, 1969) moved with his family to Australia and currently works in a library, assisting International English students at a college in Sydney and would very much like to hear from anyone attending Dean Close at around that time, his email address is ktgraham@ozemail.com.au Christopher Jessop (Gate, 1976) was inspired by the Pembrokeshire coast (where he lives) to write his first novel A Summer Break (ISBN 978-09928774-0-8); which was published in 2014.

He has now produced To Marloes, With Love (ISBN 978-0-9928774-1-5), a collection of his poems and songs which he has illustrated throughout. For more information visit Chris’s website, www.asummerbreak.co.uk, which also displays many of his paintings.

William Hastings (Court, 1968) and his wife Hilary have started a B&B business in Henlow Bedfordshire visit www.poplarsfarmhenlow.co.uk

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Jonathan Holmes (Yearlings, 1962-63 / Field, 1967) was appointed as Senior Proctor of the University of Cambridge for the year 2014-15.

He has now 'demitted office' after a year as a Deputy Proctor. Jonathan has also retired as Dean of Chapel and Assistant Director of Studies in Veterinary Medicine at Queens' College, but remains a Life Fellow with some administrative responsibilities and also continues to teach Veterinary Anatomy for the University.

Graham Milne (Tower, 1960) and his wife, though retired, continue to run their guest house on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia and all ODs are cordially invited to visit them. Who knows, there may be a modest OD discount! www.thegardenhouse.gr The Nevis Blues Festival, organised and run by Richard Pavitt (Brook, 1968) and John Yearwood (Brook, 1970), continues to go from strength to strength. 2017’s dates are the 7-8 April at Oualie Bay, Nevis. For more information visit www.nevisbluesfestival.com. If you are interested in visiting there is an OD Concession rate!

Giles Winter (Court, 1965) had his acrylic painting (Item 126, entitled "Bank Holiday") selected to be hung in the Royal Academy of Arts Summer 2015 Exhibition. For 247 years, the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition has offered a snapshot of contemporary art from leading and emerging artists, and has received rave reviews.

Richard Winter (Court, 1963), Stage name Richard Warwick, was an English Actor. He was once again on the TV screen as the Drama Channel were showing a repeat of the 1981 TV series called ‘A Fine Romance’, which also starred Judy Dench and Michael Williams.

Richard died in 1997 and in his obituary in The Daily Telegraph, Director Lindsay Anderson was quoted saying: "I never met a young actor like Richard! Without a touch of vanity, completely natural yet always concentrated, he illumines every frame of the film in which he appears.”

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1970’s John Hinchliff (Field, 1979) sent in a photo of ODs from the years 1977 & 1979 who met up in London at the end of 2015. R-L: Rod Leefe (Gate, 1979), Martin Parker (Field, 1977), Andrew Middleton (Field, 1977), Craig Scott (Tower, 1979), Kev Shaw (Dale, 1979), Stuart Gillies (Court, 1979), Bill Wickham (Court, 1979) and Susie Webster (nee Harlock) (Shelburne, 1979)

OD tennis at Commem 2016 (which would welcome more participants! – contact the OD office if you want to play). Right to left: Bill Wickham (Court, 1979), Craig Scott (Tower, 1979), Rod Leefe (Gate, 1979), John Hinchliff (Field, 1979), Kev Shaw (Dale, 1979).

Jane Hughes (Mead, 1977) was thrilled to welcome back Dean Close School to Wye Valley Canoes. Jane has recently opened a very posh bunkhouse at the Canoe Centre which is near Hay-on-wye and has a large tubular slide to get you to the ground floor. All ODs welcome! She also has a café on the River Wye called The River Café…..call in if you are passing and say hello!

About other ODs Jane says she was delighted to witness the launch of Andrew Whalley's (Court, 1977) boat up in Whitby and says there is a rumour that he is off across the Atlantic anytime soon. It is called Abel One and looks like an American Tug Boat. Look out for it!

William (Alexander) Mortimer Moore’s (Field, 1976) first English language biography of Marshal Leclerc, came out in November 2011 and has come out in Polish earlier this year. ‘’My second book, called Paris '44 came out November 2015. I am presently writing a historical novel set in Jamaica during the last decades of slavery.’’

Dale Mullins (Court, 1977) has continued to represent England in the over 55’s hockey squad.

This year they have retained their World Champions' status by winning gold at the Masters Hockey World Cup in Canberra, Australia. They beat the Aussies 3-1 in the group stages then played them again in the final beating them 4-1!

Omar Shams (Tower, 1977) lives in Dubai with his wife and two daughters. He has one son studying Veterinary Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College in London. Omar made a career change three years ago from Engineering to become Human Resources Director for Dubai Petroleum. He would love to hear form Old Decanians who were at School from 1975-77.

Hugh Quarshie (Brook, 1971) has held many notable performances including playing Captain Panaka in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (1999) and Dr Ric Griffin in Holby City. Last summer he returned to the RSC to play the title role of Othello, a role that he last played at school in the Tuckwell Theatre!

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Alan Price (Gate 1971) has just retired (2015) as a helicopter pilot. He flew 13 types of helicopters amassing over 19,000 flying hours.

He flew helicopters all over the world, Middle East, Far East, Africa, Kosovo and in the UK (onshore and offshore). Now his hobbies take priority and these include, but are not limited to, playing pennyfarthing polo for England and he recently got a job with Deliveroo as their only pennyfarthing delivery boy.

Eve Seymour’s (nee Isherwood) (Mead, 1976) novel, 'Beautiful Losers' was launched at The Suffolk Anthology, in Cheltenham in June, following publication by US publisher, Midnight Ink. Another title, 'Don't Tell Anyone' published in December, under the pseudonym, Eleanor Gray.

'An Imperfect Past', the sequel to 'Beautiful Losers' will be released in March 2017. For all details her website is: www.evseymour.co.uk. In Eve’s day job as a freelance editorial consultant, she helps unpublished authors to fine tune their work and obtain agent representation.

Henry Hodgkins (Field, 1978) recently joined Warwick Butchart Associates as Marketing Director and Financial Planner. Henry returns to work after a lengthy period of garden leave which was part of the terms of agreement when The County Partnership was sold in 2013. Henry’s two elder children, Timothy and Catherine, have now left Dean Close and his youngest, Matthew will move to the Senior School from the Prep School this September. Henry has recently come off the OD committee and F & GP subcommittee after a long period of involvement but remains an active Member of the Dean Close Council.

Thanks to Lynn Burrough our Singapore OD Representative, for sending in this picture of an OD meet up on the other side of the world.

Pictured: Lynn Burrough (Shelburne, 1976), Nigel Ruxton (Court, 1975) and Kai Sui Lim (Court, 1975).

Lauren Ashley (Mead, 1975) was in England visiting old friend Jane MacLachlan (Shelburne, 1977) for a week July 11th - 18th and had a wonderful time reminiscing about their antics at Dean Close in 1974! Lauren is currently living in Ontario in Canada.

Field House 1971/72 annual OD reunion at the Norwood Arms, Cheltenham.

Andrew Marquand (Field, 1971) writes that traditionally each year a small group of Field House boys meet for an in between Christmas/New Year lunch at the Norwood Arms in Cheltenham. They are all leavers from 1971/1972 and have kept in contact for more than forty years. It was good to see everyone and especially those who had travelled from Poole, Oxford, Bournemouth and even Scotland. Sincere thanks go to Ian Swinden (Field, 1972) for organising the meeting every year, which is thoroughly enjoyed by all who can make it. Any other Field House boys from this era are most welcome to join this gathering and only need to contact Alex in the OD office who will pass on your contact details to ensure you are included.

Timothy Hawkins (Court, 1976) has been involved in all sorts of projects, including changing his furniture showroom almost two years ago into a mixed-media Art & Craft Gallery, selling original work by nearly thirty other professional artisans alongside my own. Timothy this year won a Silver Award in the annual ‘Craft & Design Selected’ awards. He also had the privilege to be amongst those selected to feature in the first ever newspaper produced by The Heritage Crafts Association, the President of which is HRH the Prince of Wales. In August, Timothy will once again be showing examples of his work (by invitation) at the annual Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design Exhibition at the Thirlestaine Long Gallery in Cheltenham. The exhibition is now in its twenty-first year & displays a cornucopia of extraordinary designs by chosen leading furniture designer makers with a small selection of sculptures, artwork & jewellery complementing the furniture.

In June this year, Alistair Baird (Brook, 1977), Susie Webster (nee Harlock) (Shelburne, 1979), Mandy Parker (nee McCardie) (Mead, 1979) and Nick Bryan (Field, 1982), together with family members – met up to watch fellow OD Nick Heath’s (Court, 1978) spectacular production of La Bohème at Shipton Moyne in Gloucestershire. (At different times, all five sang with Mr Watson’s Madrigal Group). If the idea of a truly magical, musical evening appeals, do check out Nick’s website operaalacarte.com.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

1980’s Alistair Ingamells (Gate 1987), visited School in the summer of 2015 when he was over Bangkok where he is a Journalist working for the Bangkok Post.

Marcus Paul (Housemaster, Dale House, 1982 1988). Has written a book called ‘The Evil that Men Do: Faith, Injustice and the Church’. It is designed in part for students who are struggling with ethical issues around faith and Church history.

Robin Bayliss (Tower, 1983) and Malcolm Lim (Tower, 1981) met up in Singapore after not seeing each other for 35 years.

Chris Walker (Gate, 1985) at the 2015 International Triathlon Union World Championships in Chicago, Walker won Bronze in the Sprint Distance event in the 45 - 49 age group with a time of 1:04:48 and finished 5th in the Standard Distance event in the 45 - 49 age group in a time of 1:50:33. Chris is President of the Gibraltar Triathlon Association.

Gavin Latz (Dale, 1988 - 5th Form) payed a visit to Dean Close along with Alan Gell (Tower, 1991). Gavin who is living in Sydney with his wife and 3 boys is godfather to Alan’s daughter Saniya and Alan is also Godfather to Gavin’s boys.

Both had a good catch up with Lloyd Allington and Richard Taylor, and Alan spent a lot of time in the dining room spinning his food tray (like old times!).

Pip Malloy (nee Worn) (Mead, 1981) after studying Viola at the Royal Academy of Music, Pip has enjoyed a busy and varied career playing all over the world with London Orchestras. She also teaches at Haberdashers Aske’s Boys and Girls Schools in Elstree.

At the Festival - Racing to Glory at Cheltenham in March

Richard Austen (Dale, 1983) last November released a book called "At the Festival". A book launch was held at the Green Dragon Inn at Cowley after the Paddy Power day at Cheltenham.

"If this marvellous book were a horse it might win a Gold Cup, you know.” Racing Post (Steve Dennis)

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Simon Organ (Field, 1989) After successful periods as head coach to the University of Stellenbosch and assistant coach to South Africa men, as well as a period coaching Belgium U18s, Simon is now the Head Coach to Hurley Heren’s 1st team. Hurley is based in Amsterdam, and is one of the top clubs in the Netherlands; last season it finished 7th in hoofdklasse (the highest ever achieved by Hurley).

Emma Sky OBE (Shelburne, 1986) is most well-known for her time when she served as Political Advisor to US General Raymond Odierno, when he was the Commanding General of U.S. Forces (2007-2010) during the invasion of Iraq.

Emma wrote a book about her time in Iraq called The Unravelling: High hopes and missed opportunities in Iraq, which was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2015. Currently, Emma is Director of Yale University's World Fellows program and Senior Fellow at Yale's Jackson Institute, where she lectures on Iraq and Middle Eastern politics. We were also honoured to have had the pleasure of hearing Emma speak at the Senior School Commemoration 2016 as she was our Guest of Honour.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Andrew Moore (Court, 1981) has been exhibiting his works at the Granary Gallery, West Tisbury, Martha’s Vineyard, USA. Andrew lives and paints on the Massachusetts island of Martha’s Vineyard.

He is a realist painter, working in watercolour, egg tempera and oil. Above is one of Andrew’s works called ‘Along the Waterfront’, oil on linen.

To see more visit his website www.agmoore.com

Christmas Reunion of the Class of 1984(ish)

L-R; Robert Ahomka-Lindsay, Cathy Edginton, Charles Newsome, Morteza Mirghavameddin, Mark ‘Lenny’ Hutton, Kate Robinson, Abigail Holloway, Anna Armitage (nee Forgaard), Carl Smith, Shauna Massey, Robin Bayliss, Sophie Ireland (nee Corbett), Tim Bevan, Jo BruceGardner, Jason Gillot, Jeremy Harcup, Richard King-Smith, Mandy Ardern (nee Latham), Alasdair Carroll, Sue Boardman (nee King-Smith), Tim Harmer and Alison Jones.

1990’s Ben Marsden (Dale, 1998) has coached Wimbledon Hockey Club to win the Men's National Championship for the second year in a row. He has subsequently become England Hockey Club Coach of the Year!

Ben Hall (Gate, 1999) welcomed his daughter Esther into the world on 5th September last year. He has also been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and was appointed as a Consultant in Emergency Medicine.

Zoe Schoning (nee Griffiths) (Fawley, 1993) along with a fellow glass artist, Karen Hamilton, have opened up a new business in Mullion, Cornwall.

For the past 5 years Zoe has had her fused glass in Gallery Anthony - but has now taken on the premises next door and opened Mullion Glass Studio & Workshop. They hold workshops 7 days a week throughout the year and would love any ODs to come and say hello.

Emma Daniell (nee Burrows) (Mead, 1997) married Piers Daniell at Deerhurst Parish Church near Cheltenham on the 16th May 2015. She was given away by her father, Jim R.J. Burrows, who was on the DCS Staff from 1978 – 2004. During the Service, a reading was given by David Macpherson (DCS History Teacher 1977 – 1982); prayers were offered by the Revd Charles Whitney (DCJS Deputy Head 1989 – 2003). Several ODs and present and former Members of Staff were in the congregation. Emma is now enjoying a period of maternity leave with their daughter Florence Katharine before returning to the West Mercia Police Force in September to continue with her career.

Dr Susie Baker (nee Henley) (Mead, 1994) is a clinical and research psychologist at the Dementia Research Centre, University College Hospital, London. She works with patients affected by the early onset of dementia and other rare forms of dementia.

Susie was quoted in The Guardian on this subject, to read more, type ‘Can knowing you and your family may get Alzheimer’s ever be positive?’ into the search bar of The Guardian website.

Matthew Martin (Gate, 1994) toured Florida in November 2015. Matthew is an internationally recognised Composer and Organist of the London Oratory. He followed an organ scholarship at Magdalen College, Oxford with postgraduate work at the Royal Academy of Music, London.

As a recitalist he has given concerts in the UK and as far afield as Japan and Australia. For more information visit his website: www.matthewmartincomposer.co.uk

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1990’s Richard Ryall, (Housemaster Brook, DCS 1981 – 1998). Having been made redundant from his position of Second Master at Bearwood College, during a takeover by a foreign educational provider, Richard is 'retiring' early to his house in Galloway, Scotland. As part of the moving process he has come across a lot of photos of his boys in Brook and has been reminded of good times in the best House. If any wish to get in touch, his new email is rcryall59@gmail.com

2000’s Lots of marriages this year from the class of 2002.

Congratulations to:

Tom Judge (Field 2002) who married Kate in August 2015

Karen Ross-Smith (Fawley, 1994) and David Smith (Gate, 1993) got married last August and are now expecting their first baby! Karen and David met at Dean Close Junior School and were friends all the way through to the end of the Senior School but lost touch after leaving Dean Close. Twenty years later, they met up again and were quickly aware that they were meant to be! They now live in Dubai. David is a pilot for Emirates and Karen is an eating psychology coach and writer.

Dr Heather Whitney (Mead, 1995) is now Reader & Senior Research Fellow at Bristol University, looking into Global Change.

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Jessica Cairns (now Stratford, Mead, 2002) who married Henry in July 2016.

Claire Mans (now Howe, Shelburne, 2002) who married Tom in the Summer of 2015, with OD bridesmaids including Sarah Downs, Louise Hewlett (Shelburne, 2002) and Jo Crisp (Fawley, 2002).

OD Committee Member, Isy Shayle (Mead / Shelburne 2002) who married James Davidson in April 2016.

Louise Hewlett (Shelburne, 2002) who married Matt Gunn in June 2016

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Susanna Bidgood (Fawley, 2004) represented Great Britain at the World Ultimate Frisbee Championships, which were held in London in June.

Two old Decanians bumped into each other in an east London hospital the other week. They have been working together for the last few months without realizing. Dr Alice Howell (Mead, 2004) is now an ST2 Doctor working in Obstetrics and Katie Lea (Shelburne, 2002) is about to qualify as a midwife and will be moving to Dorset end of August.

Pete Brown (Field, 2006) is currently over in Ireland playing in the second row for Ulster Rugby.

Great to see past parent Anita Dowty, (Ben Dowty, Field 2002) catching up with Paul Coleman, Ben’s old teacher (DCJS 1979 2002), at DCS Commemoration 2015. Paul taught Art, Pottery, CDT, IT and Hockey. He also ran the model railway club and kept hundreds of tortoises!

Chris Gregory

In 2008, the then Dean Close Sixth Former, Chris Gregory (Tower 2008), was selected by Steve Redgrave’s team for the Sporting Giants Programme, a coaching and fast-track development programme that aimed to prepared them as elite players in time for London 2012. Run by the English Institute of Sport (EIS) and UK Sport with the National Governing Bodies of Rowing, Volleyball and Handball, the campaign received over 4,000 applicants from tall, sporty 16-25 year olds from right across the UK. Chris went through several rounds before gaining his final selection, winning his place in the volleyball

stream. During the campaign, Chris appeared in the press and TV alongside Steve Redgrave.

In January 2016 Chris returned to Dean Close to talk to the Fourth Form about all his experiences and how he eventually achieved his place in the GB Beach Volleyball team, sharing some of the amazing things he has experienced since leaving School. Chris is also involved in the Sky Sports Living for Sports Programme as an Athlete Mentor, with a number of Dean Close Fourth Formers taking part in the initiative.

Everyone was amazed at how tall Chris was – a massive 6ft 10in!

Jamie Hall (Gate, 2002) has left the Army and is presently living and working in New Zealand, enjoying plenty of skiing and mountaineering.

Thomas Hall (Gate, 2005) is still serving in the Army Air Corps as an Apache pilot. He's recently returned from an operational deployment to Afghanistan and is currently posted on attachment in the United States.

Richard Hildick-Smith (Brook Court, 2005) and Stef Cartwright (Mead, 2006) got married in December 2015. Both best men Jamie Legg (Brook Court, 2005) and Les Gaylard (Brook Court, 2005) and maid of honour Stef Boyd (Mead, 2006) and all the bridesmaids Vicky Rydborn (Shelburne, 2005), Jennie Hughes (Fawley, 2006) and Frances Cartwright (Mead, 2004) were all ODs. The service was conducted

by Tim Hastie-Smith (Former DCS Headmaster) and Ben Nicholas (Former Staff) played the organ.

Richard also informed us of a story which came up in the speeches, ‘’that I originally pursued Stef in 2005 due to a bet I made with Les during a Monday morning chapel service (Brook court sitting opposite Mead) where I said if Les picked any girl in Mead I would be able to date her. The £5 bet was presented to me during their speech and is now framed in our house!’’

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Ashok Gupta

Ashok Gupta (Dale, 2006), has just won the extremely prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Competition. From an outstandingly strong field of pianists, Ashok won the Help Musicians UK Accompanist’s Prize. Also in November he was awarded a Silver Medal from the Worshipful Company of Musicians.

One to watch for the future!

Jess Bradley (Shelburne, 2004) has set up a new business call FoodbyJess.com. Jess produces home cooked frozen meals that can be delivered to your door.

Jamie Legg (Brook Court, 2005). After winning the National East Conference with Richmond Hockey club in 2015-16 season, the team progressed to the National league playoffs held at the Olympic Park and new Hockey Centre at Lee Valley. Unfortunately, they missed out on promotion to the National Premier League. Jamie was voted as player of the season for 2015-16 for a superb year in goal conceding the fewest goals. He is currently preparing for the 2016-17 season and has high hopes for the team.

Last Summer, Francesca Hornby (Shelburne, 2004) and Elizabeth Pratt (Shelburne, 2004) cycled from Lands End to John O'Groats for the charity Alzheimer's Research UK and raised over £2,000.

Jack Losh (Dale, 2006) has been covering the conflict in Eastern Ukraine as a freelance journalist for The Guardian, The Times, The Washington Post and others for over a year. He has also recently returned from Iraq and the Caucasus where he was shooting a documentary.

Tilly Turbett (Fawley, 2007) is working in London at Maze in Fulham, which is part of the Gordon Ramsey Group.

Paul Whitehead (Field, 2005) married Brooke Cleave in June 2015. Paul’s brother John Whitehead (Field, 2008) was Best Man. The service was led by The Revd Charles Whitney (Former DCJS Deputy Headmaster).

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Badham’s Pharmacy where ODs Charles Badham (Field, 2002) and Helen Badham (Mead, 2000) are Directors, celebrated its 75th anniversary last October. Badham Pharmacy recently won the Family Business of the Year Award at the Gloucestershire Business Awards 2015 and were finalists in the National Pharmacy Business Awards 2015.

Now and again a truly Dean Close moment comes to light and Ottilly Grace Hill's Baptism was one of these events. Mum, Lu Hill (nee McHardie-Jones) (Mead 2006) and Dad, Joseph Hill (Brook Court, 2007), with godparents Jo Sheldon (Fawley, 2006), Megan Straiton (nee Howell) (Mead, 2006) and James Bailey (Field, 2006). The baptism was held at Trinity, Cheltenham and the pastor was Tim Grew.

Thanks to Dr Christopher Couzens (Brook Court, 2005), who is a CT2 Anaesthetics Doctor at Poole General Hospital, who along with ODs Bernie Ribeiro (Tower, 1962) (who gave an after dinner speech) and Dr Justin Forbes (Field, 1998) attended a dinner at Dean Close House for current pupils from both Dean Close and Cheltenham Ladies College, that are interested in pursuing careers in Medicine, Biomedical Science or Nursing. It really gave all the pupils a further insight into the career they may chose and gave them a chance to answer any question they had.

Evelyn Cribbin (2009) a professional yoga instructor, came to school to model for A’ Level Artist, Elena Maglione, who undertook a project exploring the roots of yogic philosophy. Find out more information about Evelyn and her work on her website, www.evelyncribbin.com or on Facebook, by looking up 'With Evelyn'.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

2010’s Rebecca Smith

Former Staff Member Alistair Groom (left in 2012) got married in December… pictured here with his wife Florence. Al is still out in Kenya, working at St. Andrews School in Turi.

Berian Williams-Jones (Housemaster of Tower, left in 2015) has just been appointed Director of Boarding at Brisbane Grammar from September.

BGS is one of the nine Great Public Schools of Qld - 1770 boys! Meanwhile, Nia is studying Education at James Cook University in Townsville and Cerys is at Gippsland Grammar Senior School.

Lloyd Evans (Dale, 2014) has had a great year playing for Gloucester Rugby getting his first Premiership start, being selected for the England Rugby U20 Junior World Championship Squad in Japan and scoring his first senior try.

Unsurprisingly, he was named as one of the top 10 local rugby players who could make an impact in the game locally and beyond…many more points from Lloyd to come!

Rebecca Smith (Shelburne, 2011) and family were out in force supporting Tonga vs Georgia in the Rugby World Cup match at Kingsholm.

Charlotte Ivers (Hatherley, 2013) was elected President of the Cambridge Union Society for the Easter Term. Charlotte was the 14th female President of the Union out of the 52 that have been in office since 2000.

Last September, Iona Blockey (Fawley, 2013) worked for Cambrian Archaeological Projects, who were assigned to excavations in Westminster Palace.

Eleanor Isaac (Mead, 2013) is tackling Mount Kilimanjaro in aid of Worldwide Cancer Research Trust. The charity enhances the understanding of cancer and helps find and develop better, more effective treatments. Ellie said: ‘’Cancer doesn't recognise international boarders and neither should our efforts to combat it. But the research can't happen without the funding. Without the research cancer treatments cannot progress.

Together we WILL beat cancer. Any donations, big or small will contribute to making a difference.

Type Eleanor Isaac into sponsor a friend at this website https://k16cardiff.everydayhero.com’’ Harrison Williams (2013) was in a critically acclaimed musical called BRASS with the National Youth Music Theatre last August.

Luke Frett

Will Lawrence, Hugh Phillips, Will Ravenscroft and Archie Nicholls (All Tower 2013), have, since leaving school, started their own band, Ellipsis. Last year the band headlined Cowes Week and have continued to perform at various venues including The Finsbury in London. You can find their EP on YouTube and Soundcloud. They are currently recording an album which should be out soon!

Luke Frett (Brook Court, 2010) once again played in the UK National Frisbee Championships in 2015 for East Midlands in Wroclaw. Since completing his PGCE at Cambridge University (Homerton College) Luke is now teaching at a primary school in Cambridge.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Oscar Osicki (Dale, 2013), after receiving a Senior Academic Scholarship from Trinity College, Cambridge, has just completed his final year and achieved a double first.

Paddy Fleming (Dale, 2011) has this last year starred in the West End production of the National Theatre "War Horse". He played the character of Rudi, and also understudying the lead. This follows on from him making his West End debut in "Another Country" in 2014.

Issy Bailey (Fawley, 2012) became the British Mixed SH1 Pistol Champion this year. This summer she has been selected to represent the Great Britain Shooting Team at the Paralympic Games in Rio. After she was involved in a car accident in June 2013, Issy was introduced to the sport as part of her rehabilitation and found that she was a natural! She has represented Great Britain since March 2014.

Will Merrick (2011, Tower) Actor; Film, TV and Stage. Most famous for his role in the BAFTA winning TV series Skins, where he won an RTS award. Will's subsequent professional work includes the Richard Curtis film 'About Time', 'Doctor Who', a variety of BBC sitcoms, and last Christmas, the Royal Shakespeare Company. You can watch him now on BBC iPlayer, playing the role of Steve ‘The Nugget’ Davis in The Rack Pack, a comedy drama about British snooker. Will, also performs every year in sell out performances at the Edinburgh Fringe, alongside other Old Decanians who set up both the ‘Close Up’ and ‘No Prophet’ Theatre Companies. Will also offered audition workshops at the Bacon Theatre for those hoping to secure a place at Drama School or a professional work contract. You can follow Will on Twitter @will_merrick

Congratulations goes to Commissioning Course 152 who had their passing out parade at Sandhurst. This included two ODs Emily Abbott (Fawley, 2009) and William Lancashire (Tower, 2010).

Year 3 pupils at Dean Close had a visit from Hati Davis (Fawley, 2013), who came to speak about her three week Arctic adventure across the glaciers in Svalbard. The purpose of Hati’s expedition was to research the effects of temperature change on the body. The children asked lots of questions to find out about Hati’s essential kit such as what she wore, what she ate and the animals she encountered.

Rebecca Coombs (Fawley, 2011) achieved a first from Cambridge and has started her PGCE at Cambridge last Autumn.

Ben Miller (Gate, 2010) is currently working in the British Embassy in Beijing. He would love to meet up with any ODs based in or visiting Beijing.

If you would like to contact the OD office, we will put you in contact with Ben.

Hannah Farrugia Sharples’ (Mead, 2012) collection made headlines as it was modelled at Cambridge University Charity Fashion Show.

Hannah, an Art (& Music) Scholar at Dean Close School has also recently displayed her work at the School’s, Anniversary Art Exhibition. She also came back last summer to the Careers Fair to give advice to pupils on how to get into a career in fashion. Those interested in her work can find her on Twitter @Hfarrugiasharples1 or Instagram @Hfarrugiasharples.

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Congratulations to Lydia Bolton (Mead, 2012) who presented her clothing collection at The Graduate Fashion Week 2016, which was held in June.

Graham Papenfus (DCS Development Director) met up with Louis Fastrich (Brook Court 2015 Vth form) and Niklas Fastrich (Brook Court 2014 Vth form) for a drink in Hamburg, Germany in March 2016, whist attending a conference there.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Oxbridge Tea: Oxbridge ODs were invited back for tea & cake at Dean Close House to provide some advice to the current Upper Sixth Oxbridge hopefuls.

Zoë Etherington (Mead, 2014) has this year been part of the Student Riding Team for Great Britain which competes against other countries from all over the world with their respective university students. The competitions consist of a team dressage test, and team showjumping. There are 4 rounds of each, and it is a knock out each round. At the end of the first round of each, the rider who performed the best on each horse (a select group of horses are used, and every country rides the same group), progresses to the next round and so on. In Romania, Zoë was in the winning showjumping team and individually came 15th out of 12 countries and 36 competitors.

Becky Daltry (Hatherley, 2015), English (Murray Edwards, Cambridge) Choral Scholar Charlotte Williams (Hatherley, 2015), Vet Medicine (Downing, Cambridge) Lizzie George (Hatherley, 2013), Classics (Newnham, Cambridge)

Tiff Eden (Gate, 2013) has signed a new contract to play for Worcester Warriors. The fly-half was out of action due to injury at the start of the 2015/16 campaign but came back to put in top performances for the Cavaliers and several appearances in the European Challenge Cup. So that he could have more match time, Tiff also had a successful season playing for Cinderford. As the LV Cup is back for this upcoming season, Tiff is focussed on more European game time through his permanent position in the senior squad.

Bekkie Forsyth (Fawley, 2015) has successfully finished her Art Foundation Year at Loughborough with a distinction, and will now be continuing on with a Fine Arts Degree there starting this October.

Sam Warren (Field, 2012), History (Keble, Oxford) Tom Dyer (Dale, 2012), Classics and French (Merton, Oxford) Choral Scholar Rob Menzies-Wilson (Dale, 2014), Engineering (Magdalen, Oxford)

Business conferences and corporate events at Dean Close School

Conferences, business dinners and receptions

State-of-the-art sound, lighting and audio

Lectures and seminars Meetings and team building Banquet style dining for 80 – 350 people

visual technology Ample free on-site car parking for 300 cars Sports ground and facilities for hire

Professionally equipped theatre venue

Accommodation

Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE 01242 258023 | enquiries@deanclosevenues.co.uk www.deanclosevenues.co.uk

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

News from the

Achives Grace Pritchard-Woods

Archives have had a busy year with the digitisation of the School magazines 18922015, the launch of an oral history project, not to mention displays, exhibitions and a trip to the Antiques Roadshow!

Yet it was the 125th Anniversary of the Old Decanian Society which dominated our activity with research into the history of the Society and its early members. This revealed a rich repository of characters some of which it seems appropriate to feature.

One such character Arthur Niemann Smith, was credited with reigniting the ODS following a lull in recruitment. He was Secretary from 1899 until 1906 when he left Britain and went on to become known as the “founding father” of Deloitte & Co in South Africa becoming the first resident partner and remaining a partner until 1963 when aged 89 he retired. The company history refers to what must have been a ‘… brilliant light of life and confidence and vision that must have burned within him as a young man.’ He retained that enthusiasm and curiosity for life and knowledge right up until his death in 1966 aged 92.

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Herbert C. Ballance was destined for his father’s business, a General Merchants firm in Durban, South Africa, but instead he felt a call to Ministry. Unfortunately, it is believed the Zulu wars of 1879 interrupted his education, hence coming to Dean Close. He was older than the other students, 20 when he arrived, and so it is thought he was in an unusual position of doing some teaching but also supplementing his own learning needs to gain entry to Emmanuel College, Cambridge.

A founding member and the first Treasurer of the ODS, he also served as President of the Cambridge branch in 1893. Unfortunately, he left Emmanuel that same year, one term away from receiving his BA. Relatives suggest his father’s business collapsed and that financial difficulties prevented him finishing the qualification, indeed he had trouble scraping together his return fare to South Africa. Ballance returned to Emmanuel in 1901 to finish the BA, a most unusual occurrence implying great persistence and dedication. He eventually became Chief Inspector of Schools in Natal.

Reverend Canon William T. Money, was the son of one of the founders of the School, and William recalled accompanying him to what was originally a turnip field labelled ‘site of the Dean Close Memorial School’. William went on to establish the Greenwich Scouts and Guides Association and was Commissioner of Scouts for London. His contribution to the School was huge, as both Life Governor and ODS Committee member for 64 years, including a year as President.

Or indeed the Webb brothers, Frank and Gerald. Frank became a solicitor, but was remembered at school for putting a catapult shot through the forehead of the Francis Close portrait, whilst Gerald became an international authority on the treatment of tuberculosis and allegedly went shooting in the Rocky Mountains with the President of the United States!

Our sincere thanks to the families of A.N.Smith and H.C. Ballance for their help and generosity.

In May 2016, we took the same portrait of Dean Francis Close (that Frank Webb fired a catapult at) to the Antiques Roadshow which was held at Tewkesbury Abbey, the home of the Schola Cantorum. Unfortunately, even though Philip Mould (one of the country's foremost authorities on British portraiture) inspected the portrait, TV stardom does not beckon the Archive department. He did give us some idea of who may have painted it though…the search for the artist continues.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

This time 100 Years Ago

The School and the Archives

The desolation of the Somme began on the 1st July 1916.

Three ODs were lost on the first day.

The Commanding Officer of Edward Maurice Baldwin Cambie said ‘…the courage, skill and resource shown by him were extraordinary.’ He was killed having advanced with his battalion to the German trenches aged just 21 years.

Arthur Beach Hatt was 27 years old and had already been awarded the MC for his actions at Loos. His younger brother Edward was killed as part of the larger Somme campaign less than two months later.

Finally, Alfred Maltravers Herapath, killed ‘advancing under very heavy fire’ aged 28.

He was one of three brothers who fought. His younger brother, Norman, was killed the following year.

By the time the school returned in Michaelmas, 17 Old Decanians had fallen and a further two would be lost before the end of the campaign that cost so many lives.

At home, school continued; J. Hanby broke the Junior High Jump Record with 4ft 6 1/2 inches. Yet, the men away fighting were never far from the communities thoughts.

News and letters were regularly received from boys away fighting. Former Master, the Reverend T.W.L. Caspersz returned in February to talk to the boys about his experiences as a naval chaplain and wrote to Mr Nicholls later that year with an account of the Battle of Jutland. At the prize giving of 1916, as indeed they had the previous year, winners received a certificate instead of a prize, and the money saved was put towards the fund for Cheltenham Prisoners of War in Germany.

Former DCPS Second Master (1969 - 1989) and our current Archives Volunteer Patrick Bryan and wife Gina, celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary in 2015. The Queen even got in contact to send her best wishes!

For those in Year 2, the topic of study this term has been ‘Cheltenham’ and as part of their studies pupils have been learning about the history of our own School, Dean Close.

At the beginning of term, pupils had a very interesting morning at Dean Close Senior School where Mr Whitney and Mrs Pritchard-Woods provided a tour and taught about the history of Dean Close School.

Pupils leant that originally the School was surrounded by farms and Shelburne Road was a dirt track. The pupils also discovered the first Headmaster was called Reverend Flecker – he was just 26 years old when he started!

The pupils experienced what a day at school might have been like for pupils in 1886, when the School started. They saw old photographs and learnt how in the olden days the prefects had sticks to keep the pupils in line! The children then visited the Chapel and learnt that inside it has brick arches, which are very unusual and how the pews are arranged in the same way as most of the Oxford and Cambridge Colleges. They were also taught that the old oak tree outside the Chapel was planted when the School was built – so it is now nearly 130 years old!

The visit really bought history to life and the children returned to the Pre-Prep excited to learn more facts about the School – including researching information about the School shield and motto, and about famous Old Decanians!

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Distinguished Old Decanians

ODs Volunteering ABROAD

Discussions concerning how Dean Close School might go about honouring distinguished Old Decanians in a variety of different fields began in the Spring of 2015 between the Bursar, Adrian Boucher, the then Warden, Jonathan Lancashire, the Dean Close Whole Leadership Team and Charles Whitney as School Historian.

Those discussions led to the setting up of a Working Party to consider all the options. Members of Working Party consisted of Georgina Hildick-Smith (representing female Old Decanians, present Dean Close School staff and Oxbridge); Alex Hume (Old Decanians’ Society and male Old Decanians); Tracey Colbert Smith (marketing and publicity); Amy Loveys (editing and design); Richard Taylor (former Dean Close Staff); Grace Pritchard-Woods (Archivist and Hon. Secretary to the Working Party); Charles Whitney (Former Prep. School Staff; School Historian and Chairman of the Working Party)

The Working Party met twice and their findings were presented to the Warden before the start of the 2015-16 academic year. The warden was pleased to accept all the recommendations. Broadly, it was felt that those areas of achievement that were already on display in the School, notably in drama, music and sport should remain. What was wanted was a situation whereby information about any distinguished ODs or careers or areas of endeavour would be instantly available and that it should be accessible across Dean Close School and the Prep School as well as to Old Decanians themselves. It should be flexible and able to be periodically updated where appropriate.

The result is that an E-Book will be available before Christmas 2016 through the Dean Close School Website. Hard copies will be available through the Old Decanian Society or the Marketing Department. It is divided into three sections. The first deals with all honours and awards; gallantry, military, civil, foreign and service awards. It also includes academic and occupational awards. The second section deals with distinguished careers, occupations and voluntary achievements. The third section deals with sporting achievements, notably those who have represented their country, of whom there are 80.

The Working Party continues to meet to monitor entries and adjudicate on inclusion. I am very grateful to them for their enthusiasm and commitment to the project.

C. E. Whitney

Did you know?

Emma travels to India

In 2015, the OD society also supported Emma Brown (Shelburne, 2007) to travel to India and volunteer for Restless Development, a youth-led charity that works across the globe to place young people at the forefront of change and development.

Emma said: “I spent seven months living in rural Tamil Nadu and was responsible for managing a team of UK and Indian volunteers. The objectives of our project was to support local youth to access employment and training opportunities, and to raise awareness of good health and sanitation practices. The project was highly challenging as the teams had only limited resources and had to contend with structural issues of high rural unemployment and poor health infrastructure. However, in spite of the difficulties, the team ran a number of successful initiatives in local schools and colleges, which included large awareness-raising events, careers fairs and skills workshops and a rally for over 400 young people.

Overall, the experience of volunteering in India was extremely rewarding and enabled me to kick-start my career in International Development. After completing my Masters at the University of Edinburgh this summer, I hope to go on to work in the NGO sector.

Thank you very much OD Society for your support!”

George Adamson MBE Famous ODs

At the foot of the Regimental Clock in Stirling Lines, Hereford (barracks of the British Army’s 22 Special Air Service regiment) are inscribed lines from James Elroy Flecker's (OD & Poet), The Golden Journey to Samarkand:

“We are the Pilgrims, master; we shall go Always a little further; it may be Beyond that last blue mountain barred with snow Across that angry or that glimmering sea”

Every soldier in that Regiment (22 SAS) learns them by heart.

Thanks to Richard Taylor (Former DCS Second Master) for sending this in.

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George Adamson MBE (left DCS in 1917) – was a British wildlife conservationist and author. He and his wife, Joy, are best known through the movie Born Free and best-selling book with the same title. Born Free is based on the true story of Elsa the Lioness (pictured here with George), an orphaned lioness cub they had raised and later released into the wild.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Volunteer Medic in Borneo Beth Moos (Shelburne, 2008) In September I headed off to Sabah, in Borneo for three months as a volunteer Medic with Raleigh International. Raleigh is a charity that focuses on sustainable development through youth leadership and aims to drive and inspire positive change.

The programme started off with a two week 'volunteer manager' induction. This involved learning about the principles upon which Raleigh International is founded, health and safety, teaching on leadership and both personal and sustainable development. More practical topics were also covered such as setting up and using a long-distance communication radio transmitter, using a machete and jungle survival skills. As Medics we also delivered teaching to our colleagues about first aid, health and hygiene and were also involved in the running of a mock casualty evacuation exercise on the practice trek.

The 'Venturers' finally arrived and the Project Managers led them through a condensed version of the training that we had previously received.

The Medics subsequently interviewed all the ‘Venturers’ to ensure their medical cards were up to date, as well as giving advice regarding antimalarials.

Finally, we departed on our first of three phases.

Each phase lasted 19 days with a two-day changeover period in between, with every ‘Venturer’ completing a phase on a WaSH (water, sanitation and hygiene) project, an environmental project and a trek. The latter focused on leadership and personal development.

For the first phase, I was based in a remote village called Sonsogon Paliu, which was an eight-hour journey from Basecamp. The roads were a challenge even in 4x4s and we got stuck several times and had to dig our way out! It was amazing to be there as we were the first non-Malaysians ever to enter this small village of only 100 inhabitants. They had a failing gravity-fed water system (GFWS) and thus we replaced the damaged pipes, put in three water collection tanks and distributed pipes to all houses. We also built a double 'tandas' (toilet), as they had no toilets. One

of the critical features of the project was ensuring that the work done was sustainable; we worked in conjunction with the local people who then took ownership of these projects, so they could continue to maintain and repair the GFWS. The ‘Venturers’ also led education sessions to raise awareness about the importance of sanitation and hygiene. It really was a fantastic opportunity to live with the local community and learn more about their culture, customs and language. We were accepted into their community with great warmth and enthusiasm and made to feel very welcome. The work done there made a real difference to the lives of the people living in Sonsogon Paliu, as collecting water is extremely arduous, time consuming and often dangerous in bad weather – to the extent that some have lost their lives.

On phase two, I embarked on a 17-day trek through the Crocker Range, carrying hammocks, food and cooking equipment - everything we would need to survive. This was an absolutely incredible journey, not only for the spectacular scenery, but also because of the young people we were with and the local guides who taught us about the jungle and how to survive there. Every day we would get up at 5.30am and walk up to six hours to the next camp. Upon arrival, tasks included collecting water, which then had to be purified, gathering firewood (hopefully before the rain came), setting up a tarpaulin (tarp) as a group shelter, digging a long-drop (our toilet!) and setting up our own personal tarps and hammocks. In order to cook we had to build a fire, which was often a challenge, and the radio needed setting up in order to establish daily

communications with Fieldbase. In the last phase, I was the Medic at Fieldbase, living in a house with the rest of the Fieldbase team. Having washed in a river for over six weeks, it was a welcome change to be able to use a shower and flushing toilet, and to sleep in a bed! Here, my role was to provide medical advice and guidance to groups out in the field using the radio transmitter and liaise with the UK team. This involved the management of common medical problems, as well as more serious ones and planning medical evacuations when necessary.

This proved to be an interesting mix of both common conditions and some tropical medicine.

Whilst at Fieldbase, other duties included providing radio cover on a duty rota and cooking dinner for the team.

Overall, it was a simply fantastic experience that I would highly recommend the experience either as a ‘Venturer’, a Project Manager or Medic. I feel very lucky to have been part of the incredible charitable work that Raleigh International is undertaking in Borneo and it certainly is a wonderful way to experience expedition medicine, which is something that I hope to be doing throughout my career.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Greetings from Matt Hickey (Gate, 2015) in Ghana Dear ODs

I am five weeks into a twelve week volunteering programme in Kumasi, Ghana.

I have been partnered with a Ghanaian volunteer and together we are working as trainee consultants in a textiles business, to help the business to grow and create employment.

I have been really enjoying the work. It is very full on but it has been a great experience and I am learning a lot about consultancy. More generally, I have absolutely loved being in Ghana. Kumasi is the cultural capital of Ghana and is home to the Ashanti King and Kejetia, the largest open market in West Africa.

The food here is wonderful; my personal favourites include ‘red red’ (beans normally served with fried plantain and ground cassava) and ‘waakye’ (beans mixed into rice usually with a spicy seafood paste).

For the duration of the trip, three other volunteers and I are staying with a local host family. Our accommodation is basic and we have no running water so we need to fetch water in buckets from the well every other day. While we have it easy relative to many other Ghanaians, I have certainly learnt not to take water for granted. Many aspects of daily life are more challenging here than in the UK but I think I prefer Ghana’s super-friendly and welcoming culture!

The programme is run by the International Citizen Service (ICS), which is a UK government-funded initiative, and Challenges Worldwide, a social enterprise.

Challenges Worldwide supports small and medium sized businesses to build local markets and so advance sustainable development. To find out more about the excellent work being done by Challenges Worldwide, please visit www.challenges-group.com. I am here as part of a team of eight volunteers from the UK and 8 from Ghana and we have all been assigned to different social and environmental enterprises.

I would like to thank the Old Decanian Society for their generous support which has allowed me to come to Ghana. Also, I would recommend volunteering with ICS for any ODs between the age of 18 and 25. Challenges Worldwide is just one of eleven different charities which are part of ICS and they all operate different projects around the world with very different focuses, and so there is something for everyone!

International OD Reps New York: Kirsten McTernan (Shelburne 1997)

San Diego: Caroline Harwood (Shelburne 1981) Charmaine Haworth (Shelburne 1991) Los Angeles: Ian Bishop (Court 1981) San Francisco: Sam Pickering Pick (Field 1997) Washington DC: Farrokh Jahandari (Tower 1981) Ottawa: Chuck Kennedy (Tower 1986) Seattle: David Richardson (Tower 1954) Singapore Richard Toh (Gate 1968) Sara Lynn Burrough (Shelburne 1976) Hong Kong: David Ho (Gate 1985) Dubai: Nick Anderson (Dale 2001) Abu Dhabi: Rob Kinder (Dale 2001) Oman: John Keane (Tower 1993)

Ben Langmaid Famous ODs

Ben Langmaid (Tower, 1983) is an English Grammy Award winning record producer. He was the ‘off stage’ half of synth pop duo La Roux between 2006 2014. Their debut album La Roux (2009), for which he won his Grammy, produced hit singles such as "In for the Kill" and "Bulletproof".

20 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

Qatar: John Toon (Gate 1976) South Africa (Johannesburg): Rick Hogben (Gate 1965) Denmark: Euan Boddington (Tower 1983) Australia (Perth): Ester Griffin (Mead 1987) Stefanie Jones (Shelburne 1990) If you would like to get in contact with any of the representatives please contact the OD office.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

News from the

Chepstow

St John’s on-the-Hill, We are delighted to announce that Dean Close acquired St John’s-on-the-Hill Prep School in Chepstow. It has over 200 pupils from Reception to Year 8, and a further 300 children in its nurseries. The new arrangement has broadened the base of Dean Close whilst providing a stronger position for St John’s.

School Choral Scholarship King’s College Cambridge

Dean Close is delighted to announce that, Stephen Whitford (Tower, 2015), has been awarded a Choral Scholarship in the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge – arguably the most famous and most recorded choir in the world. King’s College is renowned for its Christmas broadcasts of Nine Lessons and Carols on BBC radio and television. The choir is a springboard for internationally famous singers and Stephen joins a long line of distinguished former pupils over many years from Dean Close who have been awarded Choral and Organ Scholarships at Oxford and Cambridge.

St John’s is a well-regarded prep school with many values in common with Dean Close: a charitable foundation, fully co-education, belief in all-round education and the development of character. It also includes a pre-prep and three successful day nurseries.

Dean Close has enjoyed a very close and successful relationship with St John’s over recent years, and has seen significant numbers of pupils move over to its Senior School in Cheltenham. It is very much in Dean Close’s interest that there should continue to be a successful prep school drawing pupils from the area around Chepstow.

For more information visit the website www.stjohnsonthehill.co.uk

Stephen is already in demand as a bass soloist and ensemble singer. He is a member of the elite Rodolfus Choir, conducted by Ralph Allwood, MBE, and former Director of Music at Eton College and amongst his other many professional engagements has been invited to sing with the Philharmonia Orchestra at the Festival Hall and at the BBC Proms. He has already given solo recitals and sung the bass solos in the St Matthew Passion and other choral works. Stephen has been offered a place to study Classics (Latin and Greek) and hopes to fulfil his ambition one day to be an opera singer.

OD Ruth Frett (nee Warren) is appointed as Head of St John's on-the-Hill St Johns on-the-Hill Prep School have appointed a New Head to start in September 2016, Mrs Ruth Frett, who is an Old Decanian herself (Mead, 1982; nee Warren). Ruth is also a past parent as one of her sons, Luke, left Dean Close School in 2010, having boarded in Brook Court.

Ruth joins us from Cranleigh Prep School, where she was Head of Middle School, Housemistress, Head of RS, Chaplain, Classics Teacher, Drama Teacher and also Coach of Netball and Rounders teams!

On her appointment, Ruth said: “Anyone who knows me will tell you I am passionate about family and community, and from the very first moment I walked into St John’s I could tell that here was a School, where every child matters and

where there is a strong sense of family. Having talked with many of the children, from the tiny ones in the nursery just learning to walk right up to the prefects who are about to start their next journey at senior schools, I have been so impressed by how engaging and thoughtful the children are. St John’s has an impressive history of academic excellence, as well as a breadth of co-curricular activities, but more importantly this is a place where children are valued, heard and allowed space and time to achieve their passions and potential. I cannot wait to become part of this vibrant community and look forward to meeting everyone.”

We look forward to welcoming Ruth in September.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

New Chaplain

This year also saw a new chapter in the Chaplaincy of Dean Close. With Libby Talbot and family, John, Zachary, Alice and Finnian moving to Edinburgh, the school will welcome the Revd John Ash as the new Chaplain of The Dean Close Foundation as he moves from London with his wife Katie after finishing his curacy at St Michael’s, Chester Square. Prior to this, Dean Clos John and Katie both taught John Ash e School at a boarding school. As New Chap lain well as being committed to church, family and friends, John and Katie are both big sporting fans; he dabbled with rowing during his undergraduate years at Durham University whilst studying Geography, and at Oxford where he undertook theological training.

The Truste es new Chapla are delighted to announ in, John Ash ce , who will join the appointment of a Dean Close John is curr ently serving in Septem St Michael's, ber. as a curate at Che

ster Square where he has in London enjoyed gett all aspects of parish life, ing involved in focus on you with a part icular th and child Prior to this, ren' John and his s work. taught at a boarding sch wife Katie both as being com ool. mitted to chu As well and friends, John and Kati rch, family big sports fans; he dab e are both bled with rowing duri ng his undergradu ate Durham Univ years at ersity whilst stud ying Geography, and at Oxford whe re he undertook his theological training.

On his app oint thrilled to be ment, John said: “We are joining Dea n Close this coming Sep tember. Our are that this first impress is ions community, a friendly, close-knit brimming with offering plen ty of opportu talent and nities.

I am very muc h looking forw getting to ard to know staff, and serv the pupils, parents and ing the who le commun in a Christ-c ity entred way . Please do catch up with us to say hello in the early days and introduc e yourself – we look forward to getting to know everyone.�

On his appointment, John said: “We are thrilled to be joining Dean Close this coming September. Our first impressions are that this is a friendly, close-knit community, brimming with talent and offering plenty of opportunities. I am very much looking forward to getting to know the pupils, parents and staff, and serving the whole community in a Christcentred way. Please do catch up with us to say hello in the early days and introduce yourself – we look forward to getting to know everyone.�

Putting our clients at the heart of everything we do

IN or OUT On Thursday 23 June 2016 the Nation went to the polling stations to decide the future of Britain in an In/Out EU Referendum. On the same day, the School library became a hot house for debate as two Sixth Form politics groups represented each side of the European argument. The debate was well informed, robust and carried out with a calibre and civility which in many ways far surpassed the national campaigns. The discussion was wide ranging, taking in key topics as diverse as the economy, healthcare, sovereignty and immigration, amongst others. At the same time, Dean Close held a schoolwide referendum, canvassing the opinions of both pupils and the Common Room. The high turnout in the School’s referendum reflected the significant levels of engagement from pupils with an issue in which they

clearly hold a great interest. The result of the referendum showed that our pupils were firmly in favour of Remain, with a 72% vs 28% split in its favour. The result, whilst out of sync with the overall national result, is in line with the wider youth vote.

Having scrutinised the results in some detail on Friday and over the weekend, our Sixth Form Politics students are now following current developments with great interest.

The Revd David Gibson

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22 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

The Revd. David Gibson (Member of Common Room from 19681986) was back at Dean Close School as he was kindly donating to School the original copy of the water colour that he painted of The Old Decanian Society playing cricket against The Gloucestershire Gypsies on 27 July 1983. You can still get a print of this painting from the school shop...which can be purchased online at www.deanclose.org.uk/OD-Merchandise

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Ten Years of Choristers at Dean Close Prep School 12th June 2016 saw Dean Close Preparatory School celebrate ten years of educating the Choristers of Tewkesbury Abbey Schola Cantorum. Currently the choir has 15 boys, age 8-13, who travel to Tewkesbury Abbey to sing Evensong on four evenings each week and who also perform at other concerts and events throughout the year.

In the 10 year history of Choristers at the Prep School, there have been a number of notable achievements. Recently Alastair Klemz, aged 11, was selected to sing at St Paul’s Cathedral at the launch of the £10m Diamond Fund, presented

by Classic FM’s Aled Jones and in the presence of HRH the Duchess of Gloucester.

In December 2008, the Choristers represented Great Britain at the closing event of the French Presidency of the European Union in Strasbourg, broadcast live to 39 countries. They have recorded many CD’s including the recent ‘A Year at Tewkesbury’ and broadcast live regularly on BBC Radio 3; the most recent taking place just last month.

The Choristers often tour overseas, including to France, the Netherlands and even as far as the USA. They have performed regularly at Cathedrals and Colleges throughout the UK including Oxford University and venues in London and have been known to challenge other Cathedral choristers in the odd football match.

Late in 2009, one of the Choristers, Laurence Kilsby, became BBC Chorister of the Year. Now 7 years later and about to move into the Upper Sixth at the Senior School,

90th Birthday

he explains the benefits of being a chorister.

“Being a Chorister gave me an unrivalled musical education and developed a passion for music which is still very important to me.

However, it wasn’t just about singing; the life skills I also learnt, were very important: teamwork, organisational skills, listening and self-discipline. These attributes I will carry with me for life and I am eternally grateful for the rewards that come with them.”

Many former Choristers go on from the Preparatory School to achieve music scholarships at the Senior School and other prestigious Schools. Joe Morford, also once a Chorister, has been awarded a scholarship at Merton College, Oxford starting in September 2016.

Simon Bell, the current Director of the choir, said “Schola Cantorum continues to bring so much to the life of both Tewkesbury Abbey and Dean Close School. The 10th anniversary of the boys coming to Dean Close School is an opportunity to give thanks for the vision of our founder, Miles Amherst, and also to those individuals at Dean Close who had the foresight to invest in the choir’s future.”

of HM Queen Elizabeth ll

Pupils and staff celebrated the Official 90th Birthday of HM Queen Elizabeth II with a fabulous day packed full of union jack cakes, an inflatable obstacle course, brass band music, baton twirling, a British T shirt competition and of course singing 'Happy Birthday', twice!

The entire School was awash with patriotic red, white and blue as everyone came to School dressed in very British T shirts designed by two of the pupils, which were the winning designs from a competition everyone took part in earlier the term. The morning started with a service in the School Chapel singing hymns and reflecting on the Queen’s long and successful service and of course finished with everyone singing the National Anthem. Pupils and staff then gathered on the cricket pitch for a whole School photograph in the shape of a 90; using the ‘Cherry Picker’ to ensure a great aerial shot. The day continued with brass band music, baton twirling and bacon ‘butties’ at break time, followed by a thoroughly British lunch. The School Dining Hall was transformed into a festive street party decorated from top to bottom with bunting, flags and all things British. Pupils could choose from a wide selection of British favourites: fish and chips, toad in the hole and vegetable hot pot, followed by rhubarb crumble, Eton Mess or treacle sponge and custard.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Commemoration This year, more than any I can remember, we have been forced by the government’s staggered and ramshackle approach to educational reform, to give serious thought to what our curriculum should be. If we start with the building blocks of the ancient system of education known as the trivium – grammar, argument and style - we have a basis on which to build. Selecting a curriculum which is founded on providing breadth, not simply a curriculum of utility. We must do all we can to provide opportunities for the pupils of Dean Close to have a significant body of systematic knowledge that they can interrogate that knowledge with logic and communicate it with clarity and maybe a little flair. On that basis, I am delighted with the forward thinking, but rigorous, curriculum that we are offering in the new A’ Level world and believe that not only will it enable our pupils to secure three top standard A’ Level qualifications with increased time in the classroom, but will also enable them to build a portfolio which helps them to stand out from the crowd in the increasingly competitive employment market and, after all of that, to flourish.

“Respect your parents, they survived school without Google”

I recently saw a sign which said: “Respect your parents, they survived school without Google.” In a world in which information is so readily available and where a typical working life may involve four or five different careers, we need to provide opportunities not only for learning facts but also habits that will serve them a life time. With that in mind, there is a need for us to place more emphasis on the value of reading, time for study and space to delve deep. We have already committed more time in the classroom. We are also planning to find more time for learning outside of the classroom. We are seeking to create a counter-culture in which reading books is a preferred activity and learning is a priority for the many, not the few.

We must also emphasise the importance of a balanced and healthy life – the games department and our new cooking department will play a major role in this. Having time and space to think and reflect in the formal surrounds of Chapel or informal Christian Unions and Bible Studies encourage pupils to look up and out, not just down and in. Being prepared to challenge the constant demands of smart phones and social media and creating times when pupils can be offline. Ensuring tutor groups are small and investing in training for pastoral staff ensures we can support on the everyday level.

“Being prepared to challenge the constant demands of smart phones and social media and creating times when pupils can be offline”

The year I left school, Leonard Cohen wrote a song called Anthem, which included these words: “Forget your perfect offering, There is a crack in everything, That’s how the light gets in.” If we care about a young person our instinct is often to leap in and remove the problem for them. Let us, instead, work together to create situation where the pupils of Dean Close are encouraged to develop initiative, perspective and resilience by working through the challenges that come up.

Getting a bad grade on a piece of work, a disappointing report, being misunderstood by a teacher or failing to make the team or be selected for a part in a play should not be seen as a judgement of character but as an opportunity to learn and grow. Very often it is through these challenges “that the light gets in”.

Bradley Salisbury

“

“

We thought you may want to catch up with some snippets from the Headmaster’s Commemoration Speech 2016…

Amateur Jockey

George Tregoning (Tower U6th) made his amateur racing debut this year. He was riding his father’s grey gelding Silver Lining before they were caught and passed by Flag of Glory in the closing stages of the TPCT Amateur Riders’ Handicap over ten furlongs.

It was a fine first effort by the eager young jockey against experienced rivals. For the time being, school comes first for George Tregoning who is an enthusiastic work rider at Whitsbury during holidays and half term.

24 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

News from the Development Office 2015/16 has been an extremely busy and productive year in the Development Office. The focus has been growing the Close Community which was established in 2014 to bring together all members of the School Community. · · · · ·

The Governing Body Current and former staff Current and former pupils Current and former parents The wider community

The Community of over 7 000 people has a wealth of experience and often a willingness to support pupils while at school and after they leave.

Their experiences are invaluable to our pupils and those heading into the working world: supporting them as mentors, offering work experience, offering interview support and help with their future careers.

I am hugely grateful to Old Decanian Paul Whitehead from Brewin Dolphin who not only joined us as one of our sponsors but also provided two internships for our pupils.

Careers advice is coordinated by the careers department at the School with support from the Development and Old Decanian Offices. The first careers fair was held in 2015 where over 20 exhibitors discussed a range of careers with our Lower Sixth Form pupils as well as a number of career-related seminars being presented.

Building on the success of the careers fair in 2015, we launched the first careers conference on the 27 June 2016. It expanded the number and range of seminars and exhibitors and provided more opportunities for our pupils to meet and chat to members of the Close Community. Discussions about their careers and gaining first-hand experience was invaluable to pupils as they made subject choices affecting their future course of study and careers. Opportunities for work experience and internships were also made available to our pupils.

Careers Conference Quotes

‘It is great to have such enthusiastic students to talk to’

‘We particularly enjoyed the discussions with the students - some great questions and thoughtful approaches’

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Old Decanian

Events

‘We thoroughly enjoyed the day and already one or two students have been in touch about work experience. Thank you very much for the invite, we’ll be back next year I’m sure’

The Dean Close Business Club was launched in 2012 to provide networking opportunities for members of the Close Community. Membership is open to a broad range of industries represented by sole traders to CEOs of large multinationals.

Networking breakfasts and presentations from visiting speakers are organised in Cheltenham and London. Our Sixth Form pupils are invited to listen to the speakers and explore future career paths and employment opportunities.

The opportunity for our pupils to have access to the substantial and varied experience of the Close Community helps them to reach their full potential by making informed decisions from both within and outside the school.

Sponsorship Programme

July 2015

Summer OD AGM

I am extremely grateful to the following companies who have all joined the school’s sponsorship programme: Thomas Legal Group.

Brewin Dolphin Group.

Nicholson & Co. Ubique Plumbing Heating Electrical Ltd.

Future Developments

A number of exciting projects are currently under consideration by the School Council as the School looks ahead during its 130th year.

More details will be made available as plans and timelines are agreed.

Graham Papenfus Development Director

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

July 2015

Golf 2015 Summary WINNERS IN 2015 • • • • • • •

Spring Meeting – The Presidents Cup: Richard Rose Summer Tour Wins: Ian Bevan-Jones, Jon Sidebottom, Rupert Lane, Julian Rowett & Alex Hume Spa Trophy(ODGS vs Old Cheltonian Golf Society): Old Decanian Society Old Decanians Vs Dean Close School: Old Decanian Society Edward Harris Cup (Welsh Public Schools knockout competition): Old Decanian Society Grafton Morrish (Public School knockout competition): Charterhouse Autumn Meeting - The Hardy Trophy: Jon Sidebottom

The Spring Meeting (Presidents Cup) was held at Cotswold Hills GC and was won in disgusting weather by Richard Rose (with 36pts), followed closely by Julian Rowett (34pts) and Tony Marchand (33pts). 2015 was not our year in the Grafton Morrish (nationwide scratch competition) and we missed out on qualification at Denham Golf Club by 10 pts.

At the end of June the ODGS vs DCS match took place at Cotswold Hills GC, where the team consisting of James Ford, Jon Sidebottom, David Carpenter, Rupert Lane, Sam Wood and Alex Hume lifted the trophy for the 6th consecutive year! It was a close one this year with our first group losing 4&3, the second group winning 1up and the final pairing coming through with a 6&5 win.

a lady on a horse who was galloping down the fairway and Rupert was in her way!

The Summer Tour, held during the OD cricket week in July, continues to be a success, with five matches throughout the week. Starting with the stunning Royal Porthcawl GC where Ian BevanJones ran out victorious, this was followed by the annual OD Welsh Dinner held at the golf club overlooking the 18th.

Then it was up early with a few sore heads on to The Manor GC, where we dodged some rain clouds and Jon Sidebottom took home the spoils with 38pts.

Wednesday was the turn of Cleeve Hill GC with Rupert Lane (34 pts) winning just in front of Will Odell (32pts), even with Rupert having his concentration disrupted after he got a telling off by

26 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

On to Minchinhampton GC where we played the Cherington Course which was mastered by Julian Rowett who had 37 pts just in front of Huw Davies-Thomas and Robert Hornby.

The final day of the week saw us at Broadway GC with its stunning views. Julian, who was on a high from his win the previous day, was tamed

by Alex Hume (thanks for beer and the lunch afterward Julian!).

Massive thank you to all the match managers; you do an amazing job. Winners from last year, don’t forget to get your trophies engraved and polished ready to be handed over or retained this season, you can see who won in 2016 later on in this magazine!

More photos can be found here: www.deanclose.org.uk/OD-Golf-Society

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Mpumelelo “Pommie” Mbangwa Famous ODs

OD Cricket Summary President Hon Chairman Hon Treasurer Hon Secretary

Rupert Lane Tim Odell Tim Lawrence Jeremy Winter

After a fine OD victory at Commem, the July Cricket Week highlight was certainly a wonderfully enjoyable afternoon at Dumbleton where John Nicholson’s well balanced side knocked up 210 all out in their 40 overs and then successfully restricted our hosts to 174-9 in a tense finish. Many highlights included a fine 77 from Matt Nicholson, Tom Warren’s quick-fire 34, a super tea put on by the club, followed then by some excellent bowling, ground fielding and catching by the O.D’s.

Mpumelelo “Pommie” Mbangwa (Brook, 1995) played international cricket for Zimbabwe where he opened the bowling for them between 1996 - 2002. He was one of international cricket's genuine No. 11s! Currently, Pommie works as a cricket commentator and has just covered the ICC world Twenty20 competition in India for Sky Sports and Super Sport (SA Sports Channel).

Francis Bacon Famous ODs

Earlier in the week on Monday evening the O.25’s modest 90-8 was comfortably exceeded by the U.25’s with Matt Wheeler 28 top score. An excellent barbecue put on by the stalwarts of the Committee was enjoyed by all.

King’s Glos. Old Boys came to DCS on Tuesday and their total of 263-9 was sadly far too many for the ODs despite Charlie Hunte scoring 44.

Again, on Wednesday the Glos. Gipsies with a strong side were a bit too hot rattling up 2583dec. The ODs could only reply with 195, thus the Doctor’s Trophy remains in the Gipsies hands.

However afterwards the school caterers put on a splendid barbecue for all including local OD supporters, OD golfers and many friends of the school.

The 2015 Player of the Week award was won by Dan Jones, not only for his fine consistent opening bowling but for playing in all of the Week’s matches.

Jeremy Winter (Hon. Secretary)

More photos can be found at www.deanclose.org.uk/OD-Cricket

Francis Bacon (Brook, 1926), is an internationally acclaimed artist, of whom The Times said at his death in 1992 ‘no other post-war painter transformed British art with as much energy, flair and obsessive conviction’. Bacon’s artwork has been in the press of late, as one of his unfinished artworks was mistakenly cut in half back in 1959 and reused (on the other side) by a minor artist, cutting its value from potentially millions to an estimated value of £20,000. On 13 November 2013, Three Studies of Lucian Freud painted by Bacon, sold at Christie's in New York for $142.4 million, at the time claiming the record for highest auction price of a work of art. This has now been surpassed by Picasso's Women of Algiers.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

August 2015

Edinburgh Fringe Festival Some great Old Decanians and Dean Close Theatre productions took place at the EDINBURGH FRINGE in 2015, with a DCS drinks evening held at Hotel Du Vin.

Heritage Open Day

We are pleased to be participating again in the Nationwide Heritage Open Days. If you’d like to know more about the history of the School, join our Archivist and Historian for a tour. Please email development@deanclose.org.uk to book or for more information.

The next Heritage Open Days at Dean Close are from Thursday 8th September through to Sunday 11th September 2016.

September 2015

RICHARD III (above) (Close Up Theatre: 2015 leavers; Jake Deasy, Elise Ireland, Philli Hall, Sam Wheatley)

SEN (No Prophet Theatre: 2011 leavers; Olivia Duffin & Wes Lineham)

WASTED (No Prophet Theatre: 2011 leavers; Will Merrick & Serena Jennings)

ME, AS A PENGUIN (Eleventh Hour Theatre: 2014 leavers; Charlie Coombs, Max Evans, Jamie Leich, Lydia Maxwell, Ginny Troughton)

28 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

OUT OF THE BLUE (starring Will Northcott who left in 2012)

Brian Jones Famous ODs

Brian Jones, attended the Junior School only until 1953 after being born and brought up in Cheltenham. He became an international celebrity as the founding member and original leader of the ‘Rolling Stones’ the name of which he chose.

Jones was a multi-instrumentalist, with his main instruments being the guitar, harmonica and keyboards. He was in the band from 1962 to 1969, he also worked with the Beatles and Jimi Hendrix to mention a few.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Anniversary Art Exhibition On Sunday 13 September, we hosted a very special Private View and Dinner to mark the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Arts School. Over 30 alumni, many of whom have gone on to study and work in the Arts, brought back pieces of work ranging from paintings, sculptures, graphic pieces, photographs, clothing designs and jewellery. Leavers spanned back to the mid-1990s.

The evening began in the BonBernard Gallery, located at the front of the Art School, where a host of pupils and staff, both past and present, gathered for the Private View. Alumni professions included architects, graphic designers, opera house tailor, professional artists, jewellery designer, couture fashion designer and art teacher.

The party of around 60 guests had a fabulous three-course dinner which was followed by a talk from the guest speaker, and old boy, James Richards, who works at Christie’s of London as the Head of British and Continental Pictures, Drawings, Watercolours and Interiors.

Director of Art, Caroline Evans, said: “It has been hugely gratifying to see the enthusiastic response we have had from our Old Decanians to be a part of this special event. It makes me exceptionally proud to welcome back these talented young people to exhibit in our gallery and to see the extraordinary diversity of the various artistic careers which they have forged for themselves in the years since we taught them Art at school. To feel that the Dean Close Art Department had a hand in inspiring and directing their lives, is this way is a real thrill!”

1 year on drinks

ODs in Cologne, Germany

Development Director, Graham Papenfus met up with Richard McMinn (Court, 1964) and Stefan Schmitz (Gate, 2004) at Brauerei Paeffgen in Cologne, whilst on a recent trip to Germany, the hope is that the OD Society will be able to host more events across Europe.

Neil Jenkins Famous ODs

(Class of 2014)

September saw ODs from 2014 meet up at the Lansdown for 1 year on drinks.

This was a great opportunity for past pupils to meet up after some had been on gap years or completed their first year at university.

Neil Jenkins (Tower, 1963) is an internationally known tenor. After attending King’s College Cambridge as a Choral Scholar, Neil carved out a unique career, being equally at home as an Operatic, Oratorio and Recital singer; and combines this with his role as a Musicologist. For more info… www.neiljenkins.com.

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OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

October 2015

The Spa Trophy (Golf vs Cheltenham College)

There was a fantastic turn out at the October Autumn Meeting at the Berkshire GC where we took on the Blue course to compete for the Hardy Trophy. Ryan Brignull came 3rd, last year’s winner James Ford was in 2nd and the winner was Jon Sidebottom with 37pts.

Golf Autumn Meeting

The Berkshire Golf Club, London The season was nicely topped off with a win against the Old Cheltonians to ensure that the Spa Trophy came back to Dean Close for the 8th consecutive year.

We played at the end of October this year in a rescheduled fixture after the July match was called off due to heavy overnight rain. Again this was a very close affair 2.5 to 1.5.

In October we WON the Edward Harris Cup which we hosted at The Manor GC at Castle Combe. This is the third time in its his History (dates back to 1938) that we have got our name on the trophy (2006 & 2008). The team, consisting of Tim Lawrence, Robert Reed, Ian Bevan-Jones, James Ford, Cod Carroll, Julian Rowett, Jon Sidebottom and Alex Hume, were 10pts ahead of the Old Cheltonians and Old Bromgrovians who came tied second.

Organ Recital

by James O’Donnel

30 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

Dean Close hosted a very special organ recital featuring internationally recognised organist and conductor, James O’Donnell. The evening’s programme comprised of three chorale preludes by Bach and a selection of pieces by Messiaen, Wammes and Dupré.

James, who is both Organist and Master of Choristers at Westminster Abbey, played the new Dean Close Chapel organ which was installed a year ago. A highly celebrated musician, James has given concerts all over the world, from the United States to Australia and New Zealand, throughout Europe and across Asia. Closer to home he has appeared in the BBC Proms and was also honoured with directing the music for the wedding of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the memorial service of Nelson Mandela.

Haileybury Sixes Hockey Tournament

For the second time the ODs were invited to play in the Haileybury Sixes Hockey Tournament. The squad just missed out in the plate final after some fantastic penalty flick saves by the St. Albans goal keeper.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

December 2015 OD Rugby Sevens and Girls Hockey

Races Day at the

November 2015

We held the first ‘Dean Close at The Races’ day in November 2015, at the Countryside Day of the Open at Cheltenham Racecourse. All of us had a great day based from the Champions Walk Restaurant. The day coincided with Princess Anne opening the new, 5 and a half storey grandstand called The Princess Royal Grandstand. We were also treated to Tony McCoy receiving a dressage lesson from Charlotte Dujardin. Keep an eye out for the 2016 dates which will be out soon.

Once again many ODs returned back to school to compete or support the Rugby Sevens and Girls Hockey. After the matches there were refreshments served in the Pavilion. The Girls Hockey OD team and the current 1st team were closely matched, resulting in 1-0 to the school.

9 Lessons and Carols

Libby’s Leaving Service

Libby Talbot and the family moved up to Edinburgh at the beginning of 2016, as Libby was appointed to a post at St Paul's and St George's Church. It was great to see a large Dean Close and Old Decanian contingent supporting

Libby at her licensing. Libby and John also enjoyed many a leaving party, one of the highlights being the 9 Lessons and Carols Service where loads of ODs came back to wish them both good luck in Scotland!

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Leeds OD Reunion

January 2016

Launch of the Digitalised Decanian

The OD society travelled to Leeds to visit ODs living in the area.

On Friday 22nd January Dean Close School launched a brand new section on its website: a full, digital set of School magazines from 1892-2015, which is now available to view online.

The School’s Archive Department holds a complete set of the Decanian magazines which are used extensively for family history enquiries and research on the School. Before this year, these have only ever been available to look at within the Archive Department.

This new, fabulous, fully searchable, digital resource has already greatly improved access for both researchers and the Dean Close community, it will also help safeguard the long term preservation of the original documents. The School has a fascinating past and an eclectic mix of alumni, many of whom feature within the pages of the magazines.

February 2016

All details were emailed out to the Dean Close Community. Any further questions contact the School Archivist, Grace Pritchard-Woods at pritchardwoodsg@deanclose.org.uk.

Reunion 1971 – 1973

At the end of January it was great to have ODs from the classes of 1971-1973 back for a reunion. The day included lunch, tours and chapel. The day was a great success with memories and school news being shared.

Simon Harris Famous ODs

Simon Harris (Gate, 1979) is an awardwinning British journalist, working as a Political Correspondent at ITV News and currently working as ITV London’s Senior Correspondent, covering major events across the capital. Twitter @simonharrisitv

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Jeremy Wade Famous ODs

Jeremey Wade (Tower, 1974) continues to have an illustrious career in television presenting ‘River Monsters’, a fishing programme with a global audience. I wonder what he caught in the brook whilst at Dean Close??!!

Durham University Visit

This year the OD society has continued to visit universities around the country including Durham with drinks hosted by Second Master, David Evans. Which university shall we go to next?! Get in contact if you would like to help organise an 'OD university drinks' at your university.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

60 years of Duke of Edinburgh Dinner All ODs that had achieved the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award were invited back to the school to celebrate the Diamond Anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards at Dean Close School. The evening included ODs along with current pupils, past and present Common Room. The ODs that attended ranged from the first year the

award was introduced up to those ODs who have just been awarded it. Sean Conway, who is an endurance adventurer, was the guest speaker.

He was the first person to swim from Land's End to John O’Groats (2013) and has just completed a 4200 mile triathlon which took 85 days around the coast of Great Britain.

DEAN CLOSE

On the Edge of the Ledge

In Other Duke of Edinburgh News…

Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator Miss Hatchell finished 24 hours on the ledges of the climbing wall in celebration of 60 years of DofE. DofE managers were asked to set themselves a personal challenge to help raise money for young people who don’t have the opportunity to do so. Miss Hatchell climbed the Dean Close climbing wall at 6.30pm and slept on the ledges through what was a very cold night! She touched back down at 6.30pm the following evening. After her epic challenge she said "A massive thank you to everyone for being so brilliant and supportive over the 24 hours. I loved all my visitors. I had company the whole time...except for four chapters worth of my book and 30 minutes learning Spanish!"

H E R I TA G E COLLECTION

The Heritage Collection is a range of quality garments and gifts inspired by the School badge and colours, marking the 125th anniversary of the Old Decanian Society. www.deanclose.org.uk

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March 2016

Close Community Shooting at Ian Coley’s in Cheltenham THE REVEREND HUGH COCKSEDGE REMEMBERED

The Reverend Hugh Cocksedge, housemaster of Gate in the 60s died 14th January this year (See Obits). This was well recorded by the School but a few wished to crystallise their memories somewhat deeper. As a Father, housemaster, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme leader, Hugh had been a real inspiration to so many.

On 26th June 2016 a remembrance service was held at Yalland Farm on South East Dartmoor. It was attended by Hugh’s son Simon and daughter Ruth along with Michael Martin (Gate, 1972), Michael Motum (Court, 1972) and Tony Ayres (Tower, 1975). Also Peter Marks (Gate, 1972) with his son Oliver and daughter Natasha who had walked down the 40km from Okehampton with a D of E Flag. A wonderful service with a psalm, hymn and prayers led by Hugh’s son and vicar, Simon. The eulogy was led by Ruth and all joined in with their own recollections and thanks for what Hugh had meant to them. Then all shared a wonderful moment's silence, listening to the moor and remembering Hugh.

The flag was raised for the service in exactly the place so well remembered by all from Duke of Edinburgh Silver Expedition camps in the 60s. It was lowered and given to Hugh’s family.

Finally a hearty toast of Dartmoor ale and a lunch in South Brent. Hugh Cocksedge; remembered well.

ODs, current & past parents and Dean Close staff, enjoyed a morning of clay pigeon shooting and tuition. The morning was attended by both beginners and advanced shots. After the prize giving all participants stayed to have lunch together.

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Rosslyn Park Sevens & London Drinks at The Ship

The OD Society attended the Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens to support the school U18 team over the 14th and 16th September. On the 14th, whilst in London, the Society also hosted a social at The Ship at Wandsworth.

OD Boys Ho ckey

April 2016

Vale Country Fair

Once again Dean Close had a prime position marquee at the Vale Point to Point and Country Fair. Dean Close acted as a sponsor for this event, promoting the school. It was a fun day out for all the family with plenty of entertainment and attractions.

May 2016

Golf Day Close Community

Thanks to all of you that joined us at the Inaugural Close Community Golf Day at Minchinhamption Golf Club. This annual Golf Day is for all those that are connected to Dean Close. We had everyone from past parents to our accountants joining us.

• Winner of the O'Dell Trophy 2016 - Russell Legg (Past Parent) • Winning Team - Dan Akenhead (OD - 2006), Richard Akenhead (Past Parent & Former Staff) and James Dearman (OD - 2006) • Closest to the Pin - Tim Lawrence (OD - 1976) • Longest Drive (Men's) - Andrew Morris (Current Parent) • Longest Drive (Women's) - Margo Petkovic (Past Parent)

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Commemoration

June 2016

Another glorious commemoration at Dean Close School…

Congratulations to the OD Cricket Team, captained by Greg Lovatt (Tower, 2015) who beat the School in the Twenty / 20 and to Liam Brignull (Dale, 2011) highest run scorer of the day.

It was wonderful to welcome guest of Honour and speaker, Emma Sky (Shelburne, 1986), former US military advisor to talk about her career and sign copies of her book (which was shortlisted for the Samuel Johnson Prize) on her experiences in Iraq 'The Unravelling: High Hopes and Missed Opportunities in Iraq'. “...an excellent Commem. One of the very best that I have been privileged to attend…... and our speaker was outstanding. Her story of courage & fortitude, mingled with frailty & grit were both challenging as well as inspiring.”

George Thomas (Field, 2013) set himself up in the Quad and drew caricatures of pupils and staff, raising funds for the School's Uganda Appeal.

Picnics, provided by the School's catering team, were the icing on the cake!

AGM & Summer Lunch

This year in the morning before the AGM, we held a six-a-side Hockey Tournament with Old Decanians, Current & Past Parents and Common Room. The Common Room were crowned champions! After the AGM and Hockey Tournament we had drinks on Tower lawn followed by a buffet lunch in the Dining Room, it was great to see so many ODs from across the years attending. In the afternoon there were tours of the School for those that had not been back in a while.

July 2016 The School hockey teams toured South Africa this Summer. It was great to see ODs come to support the School when they played Wynberg School in Cape Town.

L-R in Photo: Jeremy Winter, Justin Slabbert, Graham Papenfus, Kathy and Brian Batty and Jamian Heeson-Baron.

DCS Senior Master, David Evans, this Summer headed off on holiday to New Zealand and Australia. As part of this he met up with ODs on the other side of the world from DCS. Whilst in New Zealand he met up with: Gerry (Field, 1963) and Carole Brackenbury in Wellington, New Zealand. Gerry was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen's 90th Birthday Honours List. Jack (Gate, 1954) and Beth Jenner in Auckland, New Zealand. Jack was made a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in NZ

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40 years on reunion

The class of 1976 and their friends from the years around them got together on the afternoon of July 2nd from 12 till 6 pm at the Lansdown Hotel. The reunion was organized by David Lawson and Tim Lawrence over the previous year. It was wonderful to have Christopher Turner with us as well as Brian Wilson, Richard Akenhead, Sue Padfield, Sarah Kenyon. Jeremy Winter was also in attendance representing the OD Committee.

OD's from the Class of 1976 in attendance were: David Lawson, Tim Lawrence, Lynn Burrough, Val Miles, Sue Miles, Sarita Cawston, Kathy Jenkins, Louise Rosewarne, Nigel Ruxton, Tony Ayres, Philip Poyner, Nigel Thomas, Nick Heath, Nigel Williams, Susie Webster, Lizzy Robertson, Hazel Presdee, Gillian Mundon, Ian Thornhill, Ian Leopold, Sandy Edey, Roger Edey, Julie Newall (Nee Hooker) and Carolyn Ennis joined us vis Skype! A very good time was had by all.

A table or two of hardy souls went on to the 125th Anniversary Ball at School that evening.

by Lynn Burrough

UGANDA

David Evans (Senior Master) and Graham Papenfus (Development Director) were delighted to meet up with 5 Ugandan ODs at Speke Hotel in central Kampala: Shakib Nsubuga (2003-2005), Anisha (20042006) and Siki (2006-2008) Kigongo, and Alvin (2007-2009) and Tona (20112013) Katto. There are well over 20 people, who still keep regularly in touch, and the intention is to form an official OD network of Ugandan ODs. A number now work either in Kenya, the UK or the USA but there are still some based at home in Kampala and each of them is developing their career in a variety of different areas.

Last year David and Graham met up with some of the others, although Shakib, who has also

accompanied many of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biennial trips to our link school, Nyakatukura Memorial Secondary School, was at that first OD reunion too. Rev. Agasha Muhwezi, the Headmaster of Nyakatukura, travelled up to join the reunion, and it is hoped that the connection between Nyakatukura and Dean Close can be developed and strengthened by the involvement of our mainly Kampala-based Ugandan ODs

Open Morning Saturday 15th October Pre-Preparatory and Preparatory School

9.00am - 11.00am Senior School 10.00am Arrival and Registration

Tel: 01242 258044 | www.deanclose.org.uk Co-educational Day and Boarding Age 3 - 18

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The Old Decanian Society 125th Anniversary Ball 2016 has so far been a year of celebrations culminating with the 125th Anniversary Ball on the 2nd July.

You know itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be a good ball when you haveâ&#x20AC;Ś.

*Champagne reception with a Steel Band led by the Mighty Jamma* *Cocktails such as the Shelburne Shaker, Mead Mojito, Hatherley Hangover, and Fawley Flyer* *Photo booth with fancy dress*

*The Band is called Dancin Easy* *Dodgems with candy floss*

*Shuttle bus to the after party at Aquavitae (part owned by OD Richard Davies) in Cheltenham* Thanks to all that made it possible and especially to our President, The Lord Bernard Ribeiro CBE (Tower 1962) for his welcome, Helen Gregory (Hatherley 2012) for saying grace and to Andrew Marquand (Field 1971) for Chairing the OD Ball Committee.

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“A great night and a fitting way to mark and celebrate the 125th year of our Society”

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OD Cricket Week 2016

Report by Jeremy Winter (Hon.Secretary) This year, the first year for a little while I was not here to oversee cricket week, as I was in South Africa with the School touring side.

The responsibility this year fell to Felicity Copp in the Development Office who I understand did a sterling job, so thank you. I will endeavour to give an accurate report from what I heard from the weekâ&#x20AC;Ś

The week started on Tuesday evening with the T20 match (U25s v O25s). The sides were captained by Charlie Hunte (U25s) and David Masson (O25s) and the over 25â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s were put into bat first and put a reasonable target on the board of 140 in the 20 overs. With Alex Hume and Matt Nicholson both scoring 50 each. Sadly though, there was no result this year as the rains came in after the first innings. But I understand they manged to get the BBQ going and had a few drinks after the game so even though there was no outcome, all went home fed and watered!

Onto Day 2 and the small journey over to Gloucester for the match against Kings School Old Boys at Archdeacon Meadow. The side was led again by Charlie Hunte, who pulled together a really good OD side. The batting let us down, with most of our line up getting starts, but no one capitalising on those starts. We ended up only setting a target of 131, these were quickly knocked off by their openers and no.3 batsman.

After not too much energy was expended on Day 2 the side was fired up for the match against Dumbleton. The ODs led by John

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Nicholson put Dumbleton into bat on which was a lovely summers day. They got a total of 182 all out. With Charlie Hunte picking up 3 for 15 from his 8 overs. In what I hear was a thrilling run chase we came up only 10 short. But positively there was a better batting display from Ali Parker, Charlie Hunte and Jack Hobbs. A great match and the pick from the week.

The final match of the week was at home against Gloucestershire Gypsies. A long standing fixture were we compete for the Doctors Trophy. Matt Shayle the captain for the day won the toss and elected to bat. Once again are batting was not good enough. Even though we started ok with Anthony Thompson getting 34 and Charlie Hunte scoring 23, but no one else in the batting line up contributed really.

We ended up on 114, not enough. The bowlers were not put off by this and put a great effort in. Robert Kinder was the pick of the bowers with figures of 2 for 33 from his 13 overs. The Gypsies managed to reach the total though with 5 batsmen to spare. They all had a great BBQ afterwards, joined by more ODs, and this went well into the evening.

Another fantastic week, by the sounds of things, but I think we will be having a few net sessions before we get going again next year.

Thanks to all the umpires (Rupert Lane, Marlon Zoglowek, Clive Jones and Darren Turl), scorers (Phil Lewis and Linda Collinson), DCS catering staff, groundsmen, Cricket Committee and those that played.

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

The Spa Trophy – ODGS v OCGS

It’s now the 8th year in a row that we have won or retailed the Spa Trophy.

After last year’s battle at the Berkshire Golf Club where we won 2.5 to 1.5, it was the turn of the Old Cheltonians to pick a venue. They chose Minchinhampton Golf Club, home to Tony Marchand. This turned out to be a mistake on their part as Tony held his nerve and sunk the winning put on the 18th for Dean Close to win the trophy.

Congratulations to this year’s team that was captained by Tim Lawrence and included, Oliver Coombes, Sam Whatley, Robert Hornby, Tony Marchand and Anthony Coombes.

Golf Week

in our 125th year of the Society - July 2016

Day one started as usual at the magnificent Royal Porthcawl Golf Club on the Welsh South Coast. It was a little breezy, but the sun was out and the course was in great condition. Peter Morgan (Gate, 1963) hosted us as match manager and before we went out onto the course we treated ourselves to a few Kümmels. The trick was to stay on the fairway as the rough was very punishing.

Robert Hornby (Field, 1967) managed this the best and did not lose a ball on his way to taking the spoils this year with 31pts, followed closely behind by Ian Bevan-Jones (Tower, 1972) with 28pts. The golf was followed by a lovely dinner in the clubhouse overlooking the 18th green and the Bristol Channel.

Up early, onto the M4 to Castle Combe and The Manor House Golf Club. Day two, we collected Alasdair Carroll (Gate, 1984), Huw DaviesThomas (Gate, 1984), Jon Sidebottom (Brook, 1997) and Edward King. Robert Reed took on the lead as match manager. Buggies were a welcome relief for those that stayed up a little too late at RPGC. The winner today was Jon Sidebottom who scored 36pts off a handicap of 8, a great back nine ensured he stayed ahead of Huw Davies -Thomas. Some of us then headed back to Dean Close to watch the 20/20 OD Cricket match.

Day three we went to The Rolls Golf Club in Monmouth. David Carpenter (Field, 1963) was a new arrival. The course again was in great condition with the greens slick. The Reed Trophy had been relocated to this fixture and this year’s winner on countback was Cod Carroll, just in front of Robert Hornby, who had been playing well all week.

Thursday, we ventured a little closer to home playing on the Avening Course at Minchinhampton Golf Club. Thank you to Tony Marchand for doing the duty as Match Manager. It was great to see Charlie Malsbury (Brook, 1971), George Lane, Rupert Lane (Gate, 1962), John Denley (Court 1988), our President Brian Wilson, and last minute entry Tim Odell join us for day four of the tour. George Lane was the winner with 32pts, inspired by playing alongside the Secretary and President of the club! George was closely followed

by Tony Marchand who had his handicap further reduced as it was his home course.

The final day, Tim Odell took the lead as match manager. Stan Close (Tower, 1959) came back to the tour after resting his back after aggravating a back injury at Porthcawl. Julian Rowett also took a little break after Porthcawl and this relaxation obviously worked as he took the money on day 5, followed by Charlie Malsbury, who came second.

Another great week and if you want to join us next year keep an eye out on the website for 2017’s dates. www.deanclose.org.uk/OD-Golf-Society

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2016

Obituaries 1st July

Dr Thomas Backhouse (Brook, 1940) died peacefully at Leamington Spa, aged 94. Beloved husband of Margaret and father of Tony, Philip, David and John. He was a former Vice-President of the Royal College of Radiology.

28th June

Paul Louis Marquand (Gate, 1940)

Paul was born, 28th August 1922, in Cardiff and was sent as a boarder to Dean Close School in 1932. His brother Eric and his father Leonard were also educated at Dean Close, as were his sons Richard and Andrew. Paul enjoyed Dean Close and excelled in athletics, gymnastics, diving and swimming. Between 1933 and 1940 when he left, the school archives record him 27 times winning or coming second in the 100 yards, 220 yards, long jump, quarter mile and diving. His performances in the long jump were described as being ‘worthy of special mention’. In 1939 Speech Day archives describe Paul Marquand's diving display as ‘the best ever, deserving special

congratulations for his splendid show’. He was awarded School Colours, House Colours, was captain of Swimming and the Gymnasium in 1939 and 1940. As a fit young pupil he and others were selected to assist with the building of the Open Air Theatre. Following School he joined the RAF Bomber Command and was in No 9 Squadron, based in Bardney near Lincoln.

After the war Paul started a business RKV in Cardiff with his best friend Alun Emlyn-Jones selling Ready Kleen Vegetables to hotels, guest houses and restaurants, unfortunately not a highly successful venture! He then moved to London to take up a sales position with a company selling carbon paper Copigraph, where he proved to be a phenomenal salesman. His natural skills allowed him to join in 1955 the Cheltenham based firm Premiere Products, as a salesman in the South Wales area. In 1959 Paul was appointed UK Sales Manager requiring the family to move to Cheltenham. He travelled the UK training the growing sales-force.

In 1977 he was appointed Sales Director. Over the years Paul was instrumental in managing and

directing the Company to achieve a turnover growth from approximately £1m to over £10 million with around 180 employees by the time he retired in 1985.

He was above all a caring and loving Husband to, Betty, a caring and loving Father to Richard and Andrew, a Father in Law to Shelley and Rose and an adoring and loving Grandfather to Amber and Tom. He in return was loved enormously by all his close family and will be missed hugely.

21st June

Graeme Edward Forster (Tower, 1967) Bsc., BArch., FFB., FRIBA. passed away after a short illness. Before his retirement, Graeme was a founding partner in Campodonic, Forster and Worsfold, a successful firm of architects in Cardiff. Graeme was also a member of the family 'dynasty' of Forsters and Metcalfs at Dean Close as brother to John, Robert and Andrew Forster and cousin to John, Geoffrey, Barry, Mark and Geoff Metcalf all of whom were in Tower House. Finally also uncle to Evie Metcalf who was head of Shelburne House.

20th May

Margaret Bowen

In the history of Dean Close School there are very few who have served the community for as long or as faithfully as Margaret Bowen. She originally came in 1972 as a temporary member of the catering staff. Over 44 years later she was still a member of the catering team as Evening Supervisor, even though she was well past retirement age.

When she first began work at the School, Dean Close had its own catering department, Christopher Turner was Headmaster and the Dining Halls – all three of them – were located where Fawley Day Room, the Resources Room and ICT are today. The kitchens were where the Design Technology Department is now.

In an interview she gave to The Decanian in 1999, Margaret remembered that when she first arrived there were fields where there are houses now, opposite the Estates entrance to the School.

There was no astroturfs, then, no Bacon Theatre and no Music School. ‘…The food has improved dramatically since I’ve been here, … in those

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Wickham also played a leading role in the Hugh Wickham (Walton, 1944) passed away growth of the Tour’s charitable initiatives, specifically through his work with the Golf peacefully at home aged 88.

Foundation.

Hugh was a keen supported of both Dean Close and The Old Decanian Society. He was A popular figure amongst European Tour staff, Wickham continued in that capacity a Governor for many years and also was Chairman of the ODS between 1981 – 1988. until 2007, when a party was held to mark his retirement. Ken Schofield, Chief Mr. Wickham also had a close association Executive of the European Tour from 1975 – with the European Tour (Golf) and this is 2004, today led the tributes to Wickham… what is written on their website: “Hugh gave the Tour wisdom and integrity That association spanned five decades, firstly that assisted our culture at a time of in his role as Marketing Communications considerable growth,” said Schofield. “His Manager for Shell UK, when he was people skills were of legendary proportion and introduced to the Tour through Ryder Cup he was the perfect fit for any occasion, be it players Tommy Horton and Bernhard with the Golf Foundation or any charitable Gallacher in the late 1970s. His support causes worthy of support, and through his through Shell helped finance the Tour’s move work with the Senior Tour players, promoters from The Oval to Wentworth in 1981, and and sponsors. To the best of my recollection, the relationship continued through the earlywe never saw Hugh flustered, nor with a 1980s until his retirement from Shell in June negative word or thought regarding anyone or 1987, when he became Corporate Relations anything. He was a remarkable man indeed Consultant to the European Tour. and will be missed very much by all of us In addition to providing commercial support, who worked with him at the European Tour.” particularly on the Senior Tour when he Wickham's funeral took place on Wednesday, helped secure Shell as sponsor for the launch June 15, 2016, at St John's the Evangelist of the Scottish Senior Open in 1993 and the Church, Kingston upon Thames Wentworth Senior Masters in 1997, 18th May

days there were no salads or special foods or anything like that…’ She was at the School for its centenary in 1986, and right up to her last day at the School she always wore her School Centenary Brooch on her immaculate white blouse. A colleague said of her ‘…Her life was Dean Close School – she was a joy to work with…’

It didn’t matter whether you were a junior Decanian, an Old Decanian, a brand-new junior member of staff or a Headmaster, Margaret would treat you exactly the same, whether it was in the Dining Hall or at some function in Dean Close House or elsewhere. She had an enviable mix of warmth and interest in you as a person, and a prodigious memory for names, faces and families. She was always courteous and gave excellent service – nothing was ever too much trouble - but at the same time she insisted that she addressed you as she thought was appropriate. She felt that all staff should be addressed formally, however well she knew them and however much some tried to persuade her to do otherwise.

She was immensely proud of the School and its achievements, and also of her family. Her School, that ‘…There is a wonderful feeling of a family community here…’, a feeling that she grandson, Jonjo Mitzzi, came to the School during the 1990s. She once remarked, referring to the undoubtedly helped create. The memorial service, held in the School Chapel on Sunday 19th June was full to capacity with family, Old Decanians, former and present members of the catering staff and innumerable friends and colleagues from the wider School Community and beyond.

Messages of condolence had been received from all over the country and internationally. They came from all walks of life including the House of Lords. The Service was taken by former Headmaster the Revd. Tim HastieSmith and there were a number of heart felt eulogies, in what was a very moving service and a fitting tribute to a remarkable, much admired and loved personality.

We will all miss her and her welcoming smile hugely.

May she Rest in Peace.

6th May

Leo Brian Taylor-Clarke (Gate, 1954).

Passed away on 6th May 2016, aged 78 years. His son Brian (Kane) Clarke (Gate 1982) was by his side whilst he was in hospital. In the 70’s Leo bought the Kings Arms Hotel in Kingsbridge. In 1983, Mr Clarke’s portfolio grew as he purchased The Crab Shell Motor Lodge, The Winking Prawn in Salcombe and then The Hope Cove Hotel. He was a keen sailor and Rotarian. Leo and Emily his wife split their time between Thurlestone and New Zealand, and were keen golfers, enjoying the game locally and in North Island, NZ, where they spent the summer months. The funeral service took place at Torquay Crematorium on Friday 27th May, with the wake following at the Thurlestone Hotel. His ashes were scattered between Thurlestone Rock and Warren Point at sea where he was the happiest. Leo leaves behind his wife Emily, son Kane, daughter-in-law Carolynne and his two beloved grandchildren Mikela and Samantha.

He will be sadly missed.

1st April

Adrian Hilton Foley (Tower, 1974) has died at his home in France aged 59.

Both Adrian and his Brother Howard boarded at DCJS and DCS in the 70’s.

Adrian was a Chartered Accountant working in Cheltenham for many years before retiring to France with his wife Vicki.

2nd April

Robin McNish (Brook, 1945) 1948 Commissioned R. Sussex Regt.; 1960 Army Staff Coll.;1978 Colonel; ret. 1981

Colonel Robin Roland McNish, late Royal Sussex Regt. passed peacefully away on Saturday 2nd April, aged 87 years.

Precious husband and total rock for 61 years to Cinders. Greatly loved Daddy to Sue, Michael and Sarah. Admired and respected father-in-law to David B, David R-J and Sally. Very proud Grandpa to George, Alice, Helena, Victoria, Alexandra, Elizabeth, Georgina and Lucy.

Great Grandpa to Oliver. Devoted master to Ginney. Respected and loved by his many friends the funeral was held on 12th April at St Mary’s Church, Funtington, nr Chichester. Donations went to Royal Sussex Memorial Fund.

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Denys Carnill Denys Carnill passed away peacefully on Thursday 30th March, aged 90. Denys Carnill was born on 11th March 1926 and educated at Hitchin Grammar School. His National Service was between 1944 and 1948 in the RAF. Subsequently, he went up to Worcester College, Oxford, where he read History.

He showed considerable sporting talent from an early age. He gained an Oxford Blue for Hockey in the 1950-51 season and went on to play for Gloucestershire, the West of England, England (captain, 45 caps) and finally Great Britain (captain, 27 caps). He captained the national side in the Olympics at Helsinki (1952, where the team won a Bronze Medal), Melbourne (1956) and Rome (1960), when E. S. Hoare, another Dean Close teacher, was manager, and also during which Denys spent a year at Geelong Grammar School, Victoria, on exchange. He was also a very good cricketer and played for Hertfordshire for a number of years He joined Dean Close School in 1951, appointed

by A. N. ‘Tony’ Gilkes, the then Headmaster, on the personal recommendation of the ViceChancellor of Oxford University, to teach Hockey and History, in that order. The Headmaster sought to rebuild the School’s previously good Hockey reputation after the problems resulting from World War II. Supported by two very able colleagues, E. S. Hoare, himself a former international, and C. A. P. Tuckwell, formerly West of England, the quality of hockey rose and by 1957 Dean Close School was producing such players as R. I. Ireland, who later captained Cambridge University, Wiltshire and England and who also played for Great Britain, together with W. J. Benton-Evans and F. C. Welles, who were to play for Wales and Scotland respectively. Talented hockey players seemed to flow frequently from the School. It gave Denys much pleasure to discover that, apart from one year, there was continuous Dean Close representation in the Cambridge v. Oxford Universities annual Hockey Match 1957-74. The Hockey XI in 1955, 1957 and 1961 were unbeaten by any other school side.

Denys realised that the future of Hockey lay in the use of artificial pitches, and it was he who was behind the fund-raising efforts that eventually resulted in the first artificial pitch in any school in England at Dean Close School. It consisted of ‘Redgra’ and was opened on 4th March 1961 by a match between a Hockey Association XI and the

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‘Denys had an optimistic cast of mind and it was a joy to hear him walking along a corridor or across a quadrangle singing or humming to himself’ School XI. The latter won 3-2. Today the pitch, since completely remodelled, is called ‘Carnill’s’ in his honour.

When he first arrived, Denys was appointed House Tutor of Walton Court House, and so began the first of 33 years of service to Dean Close School.

He was an innovator, founding the Economics and Politics Department and arranging numerous visits and visiting speakers. One former colleague commented: ‘Denys was in charge of the Department when I joined Dean Close for my first teaching post as a young man. It was immediately obvious to me what an inspirational figure Denys was. He was highly intelligent, fascinated by Politics and totally involved in the life of Dean Close. Friday evenings were lecture time when Denys would invite guests from political life to talk to our students. It was a time where controversial issues would often be discussed and Denys was marvellously open minded, prepared to listen to viewpoints with which he disagreed. He was a strong advocate of free speech. I could tell when he disagreed with someone because a very serious look would pass across Denys’s face. He would then say what he felt. Importantly Denys was a man who saw the shades of grey in difficult issues.’

He took over the Social Service Group in the 1960s and developed both it and ties with various homes and institutions such as the Cheshire and Eildon Homes, Nazareth House, Dr Barnado’s, Ullenwood, and Betteridge School. He became aware of the need for a wheelchair in 1973 for the Social Service Group, and arranged a special

Chapel collection. This led to Denys organizing, with two colleagues, the first School Midsummer Fair. Over the next ten years, the Fair grew into a large annual event, raising thousands of pounds for local charities as well as the Social Service Group.

A former colleague wrote: ‘Denys had an optimistic cast of mind and it was a joy to hear him walking along a corridor or across a quadrangle singing or humming to himself. He was a man who was happy with himself with a secure loving family life. He had a ready smile and was able to laugh at himself. To give one instance of a story Denys used to tell against himself: in 1979 a new Headmaster was appointed whom Denys, being a senior member of staff, had met.

During the summer vacation Denys was walking across Big Field (the playing fields which he loved) and happened to see a large man walking towards him. “Hello Denys and how are you?” said the new Headmaster. Denys smiled, said hello and then asked if they had met before.’

Denys retired in 1984. He was now able to be with his family more often. He had met and married Pam Clarke in 1961 when she had been the Dean Close Headmaster’s Secretary. They were married in the School Chapel by the Headmaster of the day, the Revd Douglas Graham. Denys and Pam had two daughters – Sally, born in 1963 and Elizabeth ‘Libby’, born in 1965.

His new freedom gave Denys time to develop his considerable painting talent. His pictures of

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

landscapes and interesting buildings in Cheltenham and the surrounding area were – and continue to be – much admired, and his work was to be seen on display from time to time in Cheltenham. The same former colleague, himself no mean artist, writes: ‘He was inspired by a famous watercolourist called James Fletcher Watson and when I look at Denys’s mature work I think Fletcher Watson would have been proud especially of a wonderful series of paintings of local grounds where Gloucestershire played.

Denys in turn inspired me, for which I am eternally grateful.’

The Old Decanians Society celebrated Denys’ 90th Birthday on 11th March 2016 by sending him a 40 page booklet in which Old Decanians and former members of staff had included their greetings and memories of him. He read and understood them all but within three weeks of his Birthday he had died. Three comments in those greetings sum up the man who was Denys Carnill. The first comment was “…[Denys] has always been the most humble of men despite being one of Britain’s most prominent Olympians and undoubtedly one of its Hockey Superstars…”

The second observed: ”…A warm and kind person, incredibly sincere and down to earth…”

The last said ‘I loved working with Denys and I found him an inspiration as a person. He was like a second father to me. He had a zest for life which few people have. He often said what a joy it was to work at Dean Close and I’m so grateful that some of that joy came my way.’

A celebration of Denys' life will take place at Dean Close School Memorial Chapel on Saturday 1st October 2016 starting at 12 noon, followed by lunch.

3rd January 23rd March

Dr. Adrian Foss Ellis C.B. (Gate, 1962) passed away suddenly on at his home near Canterbury. He was a member of Gate House from Summer 1957 to Michælmas 1962.

He went into the steel industry from school joining Richard Thomas & Baldwins Ltd. in Scunthorp but continued his studies at London University receiving a first class degree in Chemical Engineering in 1967. Later he was awarded a doctorate at Loughborough University for his thesis on fume formation mechanism in oxygen steel making. A natural progression was then to join H.M. Alkali and Clean Air Inspectorate and this took place in September 1971 and for a short period he worked in the field dealing with pollution in industry. He came to the Health and Safety Executive in 1975 when A.C.A.I. was transferred to H.S.E. from the Environment Department and chose to stay with them as a technical specialist inspector (major hazards) when A.C.A.I. left H.S.E. in 1987. He became Director of Field Operations for H.S.E. and led investigations into accidents which included the Ladbroke Grove train crash in 1999 when 31 people lost their lives.

His work also extended abroad with the International Association of Labour inspections, of which he was president 2002 – 2005, in countries such as Thailand and India. In particular he advised the Indians following the Bhopal Disaster in 1984 which was the worst ever industrial accident when a gas explosion led to the deaths of 3000 people.

He became a Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers and in 1993 was elected Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

He always remained in touch with the universities and in 1992 was appointed Visiting Professor at Cranfield University.

In the New Year’s Honours List 2004, he was made a companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath (CB).

From 2008 – 2011, he was a Trustee and Chairman of British Safety Council's Awards Committee.

For more details and to RSVP please contact Alex Hume at ods@deanclose.org.uk.

On retiring to Kent, he continued to enjoy the cricket scene, and made a significant personal commitment to the local branch of Samaritans, a charity he had volunteered with when based in Bootle, and as a trustee and governor at Petham school, Canterbury. His retirement therefore was very happily spent with his wife of 42 years, Hilary. He will be sorely missed by her, his son and two daughters, and a clutch of much-loved grandchildren

Richard Major (Tower, 1970) died after a relatively short illness, leaving a widow, son and daughter.

Richard (or Dickie as he was known to all his friends) was always something of a character during his time at Dean Close but it was his prowess as a sportsman that he will probably be best remembered by all those who were at school at that time. He had that enviable ability to excel at every sport be that rugby, hockey or cricket (for which I seem to recall he was in all the first teams) as well as tennis and squash later in life. On leaving school he spent a short time training as an accountant but then decided to go to South Africa where he attended Durban University although this came to an unexpected end when his father died. Dickie returned to the UK to take over the family business of ladies and gentlemen’s outfitters based in Shrewsbury, with branches in three other towns in the West Midlands.

When he took over the business it was not in the best of financial health but it is to Dickie’s immense credit that he cleared the debt and returned it to profit, no mean achievement given the challenges faced in retail over recent decades.

Dickie had a wide range of interest throughout his life including sailing (much time was spent in Abersoch) and field sports (he had been the Master of a local beagle pack). There was a service in celebration of his life held in Shrewsbury earlier this month and the packed church was testament to the very high regard that Dickie was held in both in Shrewsbury as well as the whole of the county. As was said by many at the service, Dickie was a ‘one off’ who will be missed by all who had the good fortune to know him.

6th January

Edward Gordon Dravers (Brook, 1937) passed away aged 96. “Teddy” was the second of four brothers in Brook House under E S Hoare and in Edward Ellam’s day: Wilfred M, Edward Gordon, Peter C and John M Dravers. He left in January 1937 and was the father of P Barry Dravers, (Dean Close 195863). Teddy spent most of his working life in the Transport Industry, retiring in 1984 as Chief Executive of National Travel Coach Services. Following the death of Joan, his wife of 62 years, in 2005, he lived quietly in Sevenoaks, opposite the Cricket Ground, one of the oldest in England. He was a talented gymnast and hockey player at school, and loved cricket and fast cars, and humour. He was a good baritone and enjoyed Bridge.

Contributed by Dr Arthur Blyth who had Teddy’s youngest brother, John, as his best man in 1951, and by Teddy’s Son Barry.

SUMMER 2016 I FLECKER 45

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

13th January

The Revd. Hugh Cocksedge

Hugh was born in 1926. He went to Magdalene College, Cambridge, to read Mechanical Science and graduated in 1950.

He came to Dean Close School in September 1958 having earlier briefly been an RAF officer and also taught at King’s Taunton. He was appointed to be in charge of the School ‘Mechanical Workshops’. He was described by a Dean Close School colleague, Rod Pentycross, as ‘…an uncompromising Christian,’ and a person of ‘modesty and calm efficiency.’ He was appointed Housemaster of Gate House in September 1966 until his departure four years later. He and his wife were noted for their ‘hospitality and thoughtfulness’.

He was heavily involved with the CCF. He revived the RAF section as a Flight Lieutenant and was especially noted for his organization of camps, whether Dartmoor or Summer, as

well as assistance in Arduous Training Camps. He also organized, with his wife, camps for Yearlings.

With the School Chaplain, the Revd R. W. Hallett, he was the joint initiator of the Social Service activity among the boys.

Apart from his Housemastership of Gate House, arguably his greatest contribution to the life of the School was his introduction of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. He was one of its earliest enthusiasts before he arrived at the School, having been trained by Sir John Hunt of Mount Everest fame. He was instrumental in Dean Close School becoming one of the Duke of Edinburgh scheme’s experimental units. Up to that point, Dean Close School had always inculcated into its alumni the importance of team games and the mind-set that flows from that. Hugh maintained that there was also a place for individual effort and development. He was supported throughout by the Headmaster of

the day, the Revd Douglas Graham, although some senior members of staff took a dim view. Any reference to the Duke of Edinburgh scheme was edited out of the school’s first history, written by R. F. McNeile, in 1966.

Nevertheless, Hugh persisted and was able to see three quarters of the school involved in Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards before he left, 60% achieving Bronze Awards. The Scheme has continued ever since and well over 200 Gold Awards have been achieved by Decanians to date.

Hugh left in 1970 to become warden-incharge of a Fulham Church of England Comprehensive School educational centre near Wisbech in Cambridgeshire.

Hugh entered the Church initially as a nonstipendiary clergyman in 1988. However, he later became Chaplain to the Anglican community in Ankara, Turkey, 1991 – 1996.

He retired in 1996 but continued to take services.

Hugh Cocksedge surrounded by ODs from 1967-75 at their annual catch up!

Back Row: Tony Ayres (T 75), Nigel Hemming (B 75), Stephen Oxlade (C 72), Hugh Cocksedge (Master in charge of setting up D of E at DCS), Chris Wigley (C 72), Steve Shaw (T 72), Tess Shaw (nee Ford) (M 72) Front Row: Peter Ward (C 70), Mike Motum (C 72), Tony Godfrey (C 72) and Chris Davidge (B 72).

46 FLECKER I SUMMER 2016

OLD DECANIAN SOCIETY I DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL

Obituaries 2015

November

28th September

John Barker (Field, 1966) died on the 28th September. John was 67 years of age, and was in Field House, (when in the senior school). He was the former Chief Executive of Isotron PLC, a FTSE 100 company.

August

Tom Graveney

Though not an Old Decanian himself, Tom was a friend of the school and had the honour of opening the new cricket pavilion. The former England Cricketer played 79 Tests for England, scoring 11 centuries and averaging 44.38. After retiring, he became a BBC commentator and served as the 200th president of the MCC in 2005.

Barry Lane (Field, 1974) was a member of the 'Class of 74' whose reunion took place in Cheltenham a couple of years ago - forty years on.

He was able to renew old friendships on that day and many were struck by his zest for life and the pride he took in his family. Several of those old friends were reunited once again last December to say goodbye to Barry in the beautiful Northumberland countryside on the outskirts of Hexham.

Barry was a member of Field House which in those days was under the stewardship of Denys Carnill and then Trevor Snow. At school Barry's artistic talents were able to flourish. He contributed to house drama and wrote a number of school reviews - in fact after leaving school he briefly attended Drama College. But it was music that shaped much of his life. He was a multiinstrumentalist, loved music, and loved sharing that enthusiasm with others. In his twenties he was in a number of bands which were part of that great explosion of energy in the seventies and early eighties. Barry also worked as a recording engineer in London before putting aside hopes of a professional career and turning his attention to teaching and then, in partnership with his wife Debbie, running a decorative painting business.

As well as having that great zest for life, Barry also thought very deeply about it and had a great sense of social justice. He became interested in humanism, which has particularly deep roots in the north of England, and became a humanist celebrant conducting ceremonies on behalf of those wanting an alternative to a religious funeral.

He was thus able to help friends and families through difficult times.

Naturally it was at such a ceremony that Barry's wife Debbie, his children Amy and Patrick, his mother Winifred, his brother Tony, and his many friends remembered his life and bid him a fond farewell.

Robert Rupert Edward Gosling (Tower, 1948) House Prefect, Rugby - front row useful in the right scrum and lineout, fast in the open. 1st Colours awarded. House Colours for rugby. L/C in Joint Training Core. 100 yards came 2nd and 220 yards came second behind I Herbert. Para Olympics - Wheel Chair Diggers.

19th July

William (Bill) Harry Reynolds Jones, (Brook, 1938) passed away on 19th July 2015 aged 96.

Left Dean Close in 1938 to study law at Queen’s College Cambridge. Joined the RAF in July 1940.

Served as Coastal Command pilot flying Beaufort and later Beaufighter aircraft. Awarded DFC and a Mention in Despatches. Qualified as a solicitor in 1948. Partner in Chester firm, Mason & Moore Dutton until 1975 when appointed to Judiciary at District Judge level. Retired in 1990. Played hockey for England, captained Cheshire at cricket.

Keen golfer into his 90’s. Great interest in photography and amateur dramatics. At school acquired facility for writing comic verse and at one time wrote Odd Odes for the late comedian Cyril Fletcher. Married to Joan for 62 happy years. 2 children, 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren.

Bill passed away peacefully at home after a short illness. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.

June

Nigel Humphrey Jones (Tower, 1972)

Passed away in June, 2015 after a short illness.

He leaves a widow, Sarah, and two children, Joshua and Isabel.

He was a very popular member of the school, recalled with fondness by his contemporaries.

Keen to participate in debate and in lively discussion (picking a contrary view for the fun of it on occasion), he also enjoyed playing and spectating all sport, especially hockey and rugby.

After leaving school, he worked in the Cheltenham area in a number of different jobs, before moving to London and then to Sussex. He worked in telecommunications for over twenty years.

Throughout his life, he remained the life and soul of any party – and there were quite a few of those.

He had an encyclopaedic knowledge of sport and thoroughly enjoyed spectating cricket and rugby.

Over 200 people attended his funeral service in Etchingham, such was his popularity.

14th May

John Raymond Barrows (Tower, 1954) passed away at his daughter's home, on 14 May 2015, in his 79th year. Dearly beloved husband of Angela, dearly loved father of Louise and William, and much loved Gramps of six grandchildren. The Funeral service was held at LeFoulon Crematorium Chapel in Guernsey.

22nd April

Chris Kenyon passed away at home, surrounded by his family. A Service of Thanksgiving was held at St Nicholas Church, Ashchurch, on Friday 8th May. Chris came to DCS in September 1962 having read Geography and Theology at Jesus College, Cambridge and retired 36 years later in 1998. While at Dean Close Chris held a number of positions including: House Tutor in Tower, Housemaster of Gate, Housemaster of Field, Geography Teacher & Head of the Divinity Department and Head of Cricket.

To mark his retirement, the Pavilion on Big Field was renamed the Kenyon Pavilion in his honour. Chris also became a Diocesan Reader (Church of England lay minister) in 1976, preaching in Chapel to both the Senior and Junior Schools. In retirement, Chris exercised his ministry as a Reader at Ashchurch Parish Church, just outside Tewkesbury, as well as continuing his much appreciated activity as a painter.

Memories of Chris can be found at: www.deanclose.org.uk/Memories-of-Chris

SUMMER 2016 I FLECKER 47

Dates for the Diary

For more information on these and other events visit our website, www.deanclose.org.uk/Events or call the OD Office.

ber m e t p e S

, n Close at Dea l. s y a D Schoo e Open Heritag ic tours of the h t 0 8th & 1 cluding histor uction in e Prod g in r F h Shrew. dinburg 9th - E Taming of the 7.15pm. of at Theatre Bacon s Golf S v OD lf Club.

C D h 11t ills Go wold H re @Cots by fixtu XV rug llege. t s 1 e m Co First ho gdalen 17th - season v Ma rt the boys of the us to suppo the pavilion. ts in Join shmen e r f e r r and fo

November

orks Display, Close Firew 6th - Dean Big Field.

October

1st - De ny Dean Clo s Carnill Memo r se Scho ol Chap ial Service. el, 12no on.

2nd – H aileybur y Sixe Hockey Tournam s Alumni ent.

1st - 20 th - Min J u Retrosp ective E ng Kim (Shelbu xhibition rn (2006 – e, 2007) Bonbern 2016). ard Gall ery.

13th – O DG at The B S Autumn Me eti erkshire Golf Clu ng b.

20th 5.30pm - Community E v in Dean Close Sc ensong, hool Ch apel.

December

7th - 9th ‘Fiddler on th - School Musical e Roof’ Th OD night on th e Bacon Theatre. e Thursday.

14th - Service of Nin Dean Close S e Lessons and Carols, chool Chapel at 7pm.

2017

DCS Commem Saturday 27th oration May 2017

Editors: Alex Hume (Dale, 2002) & Ruth Gregory (Mead, 2013) Proof reader: Lydia Evans (Mead, 2014) Thank you to all those ODs that contributed to the magazine this year.