Sadly Departed

We would like to thank family members, friends and colleagues who have notified us of the deaths of Old Fettesians and other Friends of Fettes listed in this edition of the Newsletter. This list includes news of deaths that we have been made aware of up until 16th June 2022. If you know of any omissions, please do let us know by emailing ofa@fettes.com or calling +44 (0)131 311 6741.

Throughout the year when we are notified of a death, we update the following page on our website: www.fettes.com/ familyforlife/alumni/sadly-departed

1930s

PROFESSOR IAN G STEWART (Gl 1937–1941) Professor Ian G Stewart passed away on 23rd September 2021, aged 98.

Ian attended Fettes College in the late 1930s where he was Captain of the Shooting XIII and was a Sergeant in the CCF. His brothers Bill D Stewart (Gl 1942–1944) (Deceased) and Tom H Stewart (Gl 1950–1954) both attended Fettes after Ian. His granddaughter Ally K De Haan (PS-Ar 2007–2013) also attended Fettes. As a distinguished Professor of Economics he was elected in 1976 as the Edinburgh University representative on the Board of Governors. After serving as Chairman of the education sub-committee and taking a very active part in the Fettes–2000 Appeal, he became Chairman of Governors in 1986 until he stepped down in 1989.

The following was written by William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955):

As well as a long life and a distinguished career as an academic economist, Ian had an adventurous and much travelled one. One would never have guessed this from the mild, gentle and modest man I knew in the last forty years of his life.

After leaving Fettes and spending a year at St Andrews University, Ian was called up into the RAF. Following training in the UK and North America, in October 1944, he qualified as a Sunderland flying boat pilot and spent the next two years flying East from Africa, on at least one occasion as far as Japan. He returned to St Andrews University taking a First-Class Honours Degree in Political Economy and Political Science and spent 1948–50 as a Commonwealth Fellow at Chicago and Harvard Universities, coming back to this country as a Research Officer in the Department of Economics at Cambridge University. During this time, he investigated the National Income of Nigeria, which, as on both occasions when he was in North America, resulted in considerable travel there.

In 1957 he came to Edinburgh University as a Lecturer in Economics and progressed up the career ladder there becoming Head of the Department in 1971 and Acting Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences in 1973, retiring in 1984. Ian was a Governor of Fettes in the 1980s and Chairman “on a short-term basis” for his last three years in office. He faced difficulties in that capacity, but in his calm, nice but effective manner, he dealt with them admirably, thus helping to provide the basis for the subsequent success of the school. Fettes, therefore, owes him a considerable debt of gratitude. He married Mary Oddie in 1949; they had two daughters and a son.

IAN T HALL (Ca 1938–1942) Ian T Hall passed away on 19th August 2021, aged 96.

Ian came to Fettes in 1938 and was joined by his brother Kenneth M Hall (Ca 1939–1944) (Deceased). After Fettes, Ian was a Captain in the Royal Engineers. He lived and worked in Bangalore from 1954–1964. During his retirement he enjoyed golf.

The following was published in the Peeblesshire News:

HALL Ian Telford (Peebles) Passed away peacefully at Archview Lodge, Dalkeith on 19th August 2021, aged 96. Beloved husband of the late Rita and dear father of Gordon and Michael. Any donations to be made to “Good News For Everyone”, a Christian charity.

1940s

DAVID GAULT (Ca 1942–1945) David Gault passed away on 29th November 2021, aged 93.

David played cricket and gained his 3rd XI Cap in 1945. In 1943 he won the boxing at bantam weight and in 1944 he performed in the Carrington House Play. After Fettes he became a shipbroker. He kept in touch with Fettes, occasionally attending London Old Fettesian events.

The following was written by William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955):

David leaves Jane, his wife of seven years, five children, nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren. David was a shipbroker and Managing Director of H Clarkson & Co, a leading international shipping line. In 1968 Sir Alexander (‘Sandy’) Glen (Ca 1926–1930) (Deceased), who had been an Arctic explorer in the 1930s and had had a distinguished naval career in the Second World War, was Chairman of Clarkson. He provided money, partly from his own resources and partly from the company’s, to set up a fund in the Fettesian Trust controlled by the Head. The purpose of the fund was “to assist boys and girls annually in travel or some enterprise of this kind showing rather unusual initiative”. For the last 50 years, therefore, Fettesians have benefited from Clarkson’s generosity which has allowed them to travel throughout the world in interesting ways and they are continuing to do so.

ANDREW L GUNN (SH-Ki 1943–1950) Andrew L Gunn passed away on 16th October 2021, aged 90.

During his time at Fettes, Andrew was a keen sportsman playing in the 1st XI Cricket team, the 1st XI Hockey team and the 1st XV Rugby team. He was also Head of House, a House Prefect, a School Prefect, an Assistant Librarian and a member of the Music Club committee. Andrew’s brother John A Gunn (Ki 1947–1953), his Great Niece Sacha A Bushby (Ar-Da 2011–2016) and his Great Nephew Mark R Bushby (Mo 2013–2018) also attended Fettes College.

The following was written by John A Gunn (Ki 1947–1953):

Andrew L Gunn came to Fettes as a Foundationer in 1943, a few days after reaching the age of twelve. He was the youngest boy in the school. He started on the Classical side and won a scholarship to Clare College, Cambridge in 1949. He decided that he wanted to go in for medicine and stayed at Fettes to read biology etc for A levels. When he left in July 1950, he was a School Prefect and Head of Kimmerghame, and by now the oldest boy in the school. He was Captain of cricket and played in the first XV.

He qualified in medicine at Cambridge and subsequently at Guy’s Hospital Medical School. After various appointments in London, Bedford and Nottingham he became a consultant in orthopaedic surgery in Ipswich.

Andrew is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, four children, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and his younger brother John.

ROBIN J MALLINSON (Ca 1944–1947) Robin J Mallinson passed away on 17th March 2022, aged 93.

At Fettes, Robin was Head of House, a Sergeant in the CCF and captain of both the 1st Cricket XI and 1st Hockey XI. He also played fives and squash and was a member of the Shakespeare Society. Robin’s father Lieutenant Colonel Ernest H Mallinson (SH 1911–1916) (Deceased) also attended Fettes.

The following was written by his son, David:

Robin Mallinson started at Fettes in the middle of World War II in January 1944. He was four months late but had a very decent (and certainly one of the more interesting excuses) having been stranded in a troop garrison in Egypt for six weeks on his journey back from the family home in Kashmir! He loved the sporting life at Fettes captaining the cricket team and the hockey team as well as playing squash and fives for the school with distinction. Robin’s father E H P (Simon) Mallinson also captained the cricket team and Robin (an agile fielder) slightly guiltily recalled that he ran out his father when playing against the Old Boys. He also prospered academically at least enough to secure a place at Oxford. Robin claimed to be the only student at Fettes at the time to take Geography despite it not being on the syllabus, there being no staff able to teach it and only one book. Apparently on arrival Robin persuaded his teachers that he could not take up Classics having never studied it in India and that Geography was the obvious option given his global experience – the teacher begrudgingly agreed, and Robin was very proud of achieving a self-taught credit.

He was born in 1928 on a houseboat on the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir, the houseboat being rented by his parents because Europeans were not allowed to own property there. His father was an officer in the Indian Army, 17th Dogras, and Robin, his two sisters and mother followed his postings around the sub-continent. Summers were spent in Gulmarg, also in Kashmir, until he was dispatched back to the UK in 1943 aged 15 to complete his secondary education at Fettes. He was an irrepressible raconteur, many of his stories relating to his early years in India which perhaps became embellished with the passing of time. He contributed many of these stories to a two-volume compilation called Last Children of the Raj, a collection by Laurence Fleming of the early memories of many individuals born between 1911 and 1940 who spent their childhoods or adolescence in the British Raj or the Princely States, published in 2004.

After Fettes, Robin went to University College, Oxford in 1948 following National Service in the Royal Artillery. He took mods in Mathematics and Finals in Jurisprudence, and on graduating he trained as a Chartered Accountant with Coopers in London. On qualifying he joined Alcan Aluminium where he spent the large part of his career, with postings to Banbury, London, British Guiana/Guyana, London and Rio de Janeiro, where his last position was finance director of Alcan in Latin America. The final years of his career were spent with Blue Circle Cement in Indonesia and the UK.

Sport played a large part in his life: at Oxford he gained a blue in hockey and half blue in Rugby fives, he played hockey for Oxfordshire, was a cricket lover who qualified as a playing member of the MCC and became an accomplished golfer with a low handicap of 3. Among his achievements at golf was becoming the Open Golf Champion of British Guiana (admittedly not the foremost of golfing nations), winning the prestigious Seniors club individual and foursomes trophy and recording a hole in one at North Hants Golf Club at the 8th hole on the 8th August in his 88th year. He also represented the Old Fettesians and played in at least one winning team in the Cyril Gray trophy. He finally hung up his clubs aged 89 having scored below his age every year since he was 69.

He met Elizabeth Jukes-Hughes, one of a pair of mischievous identical twins whilst at Oxford and they married shortly after and went on to have four sons (none of whom attended Fettes sadly).

Robin and Elizabeth lived in quiet retirement in Crondall, Hampshire, for many years, interrupted only by a stint as a district councillor for the Conservatives in the Hart District. Not a natural politician, his arm had been twisted to run in possibly the safest Conservative ward in the land in 1992 as the party was at such a low ebb and there were no other volunteers. He was always willing to answer the call and make his contribution. He died peacefully at home on 17th March 2022 aged 93, Elizabeth having pre-deceased him by four years.

DAVID A MCGOUN (Ki 1946–1950) David A McGoun passed away on 21st March 2020, aged 87.

During his time at Fettes, David was a member of the Senior Music Club, the Choir, and the Reel Society. He also took part in the Geographical Society and was a Corporal in the CCF.

The following was written by his wife, Barbara:

David went into National Service in the British Army and was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Tank Regiment serving as a Troop Commander in the 4th Tank Regiment in Egypt from October 1951 to December 1952. He was then promoted to Lieutenant in the Territorial Army Queens Own Royal Glasgow Yeomanry Regiment.

He went on to spend most of his working life in Nigeria and eventually retired to Horning in Norfolk.

He was very proud of his time at Fettes and was the most kind and gentle man. He is greatly missed.

KENNETH C S YOUNG (Ca 1948–1953) Kenneth C S Young passed away on 31st October 2021, aged 87.

Kenneth came to Fettes in 1948, joining his older brother, Donald S Young (Ca 1946–1951), both following their father Andrew B S Young (Ca 1915–1919) (Deceased). Kenneth was a House Prefect and a keen sportsman, competing in both the Hockey XI and the Cricket XI. After Fettes he went on to study Classics at St. John’s Cambridge before working at the Exchange Telegraph Company. His daughter Kate Eckett (née Young) (Gl 1979–1981) came to Fettes as one of the early girls. She too was excellent at sport, becoming Girls Sport Captain whilst representing Fettes at tennis, golf, badminton and basketball.

Based largely on information from Kenneth’s wife and daughter, the following was written by William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955):

Kenneth did well at Fettes where he was a House Prefect and in the 1st XI for two years. He got his place in the XI by making a century against it while filling an empty place in the OF cricket team. His other notable experience was being in Carrington in March 1952 when there was a major fire in “Upper Big” and other dormitories. Like many of the rest of us, all his clothes were destroyed and, much to her annoyance, his mother had to take him to buy a completely new set. He also did well when he followed in the footsteps of his father, who was a rugger blue, to St Johns College, Cambridge where he took a degree in Classics and played for the College squash and tennis teams.

Kenneth had a distinguished career connected with, and then in horseracing. He worked for the Exchange Telegraph Company (EXTEL) becoming a director of the business which transmitted news from racecourses to betting shops throughout the country after the legislation of offcourse betting in 1961. He and his colleagues fought off an unwanted bid from Robert Maxwell, but in 1988 EXTEL was acquired by United Newspapers.

In 1992, as a result of his experience in EXTEL, Kenneth was appointed Chief Executive of the Horse Racing Advisory Council, which represented all parts of racing and negotiated with the Jockey Club when the British Horse Racing Authority was established. In retirement he acted as a Steward at Lingfield Park and Warwick Racecourses and was chairman of the Buckinghamshire branch of The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust. He married Elizabeth Benn in 1961. Through their daughter Kate they have two grandchildren, Thomas and Alice, but sadly their other daughter Miranda died. Kenneth was a marvellous person, kind, generous, thoughtful and loving and is sadly missed not only by his immediate family but also by his brother Donald and his sister Ann Laughland.

GRAHAM G CUMMING (Ca 1949–1954) Graham G Cumming passed away on 15th March 2022, aged 86.

At Fettes, Graham was the Head of House and Captain of the 1st XV. He was also in the 1st Hockey XI, captain of the Fives team and won the 1952 Steeplechase. Unsurprisingly, he won the Challenge Clock in 1954. Four generations within the Cumming family have attended Fettes; Graham’s father Alexander I Cumming (Ca 1922–1925) (Deceased), his brothers Andrew M Cumming (Ca 1952–1954) (Deceased) and Robert A Cumming (Ca 1956–1956), his cousin Michael R Cumming (Ca 1954–1958), his children John A Cumming (Ca 1977–1981) and Andy A Cumming (Ca 1979–1983) as well as his grandson Alexander P Cumming (Ca 2016–2021).

The following was written by Donald Steel (Gl 1950–1956):

From whatever angle you look, Graham Cumming was the most versatile sportsman in modern times (maybe ever) to have donned chocolate and magenta although he would certainly never have laid claim himself. In 72 years of knowing him well, he was the pillar of modesty. In the battle with his final illness, he was typically brave and quick to switch the talk to cricket or golf. However, he was unmistakably proud of his family’s Fettes heritage. Father, brother, two sons and grandson embraced four generations of noble Yorkshire stock.

“Lies, damned lies and statistics” is a quotation said to have its roots in the University of York but, more apt in this context, is the blunt assertion of an old Australian cricket coach who maintained “you can’t argue with figures”. Well, here goes. The truth cannot lie.

Graham played 1st XI cricket for five of his six summers, the last two as captain. A fast medium bowler, Number 4 or 5 batsman, and a fielder who set a wonderful example, he was always in the game. In his final summer, he topped both bowling and batting with respective averages of 9.64 and 42.55. Under his captaincy, his teams were unbeaten against Scottish schools. One painful memory lingers of the 1953 House Match final in which Graham made 201 for Carrington against Glencorse in what seemed more like a timeless “Test Match”.

Changing to winter, Graham was full back in the 1st XV 1952–54 which also never lost to a Scottish school. He was a reliable place kicker who had conspicuous success even with the old leather ball that weighed a ton when wet. Yet, for all his penchant for joining the attack, his was a comforting last line of defence with special power as a drop kicker. The December 1953 Fettesian magazine described the goal he dropped from a mark against Glasgow Academy, as “the rarest of rugby spectacles”. By way of due recognition, Graham was selected for the Scottish Schools XV in 1954.

For the following Lent term, he took over as Captain of rugby, and Head of Carrington, from Malcolm Swan (Ca 1948–1953) (Deceased), and was later his Best Man at a service at St Margaret’s, Westminster, “The Church of Parliament Square”. Swan won eight caps for Scotland in 1958–59, but Graham’s three school victories, when in command, were aided by two other Scottish internationals, Gordon Waddell (Ca 1950–1956) (Deceased) and Frans ten Bos (Gl 1951–1955) (Deceased). The following year, John Brash (Gl 1952–1957) (Deceased) joined the list. It was a golden age.

Fettes were fortunate regarding their Coaches and Masters-in-Charge of games whose aim was not merely to spend enjoyable practice afternoons and win school matches. Charles Whittle (Staff 1948–1972) (Deceased), Peter Henderson (Staff 1948–1963) (Deceased), Bruce McKenzie (Staff 1952–1957) (Deceased) and Ian Sutcliffe (Staff 1946–1979) (Deceased) are foremost in mind. They were guided by the greater force of equipping their charges with ambitions to graduate to higher levels at university, club, county, and even country. It should be priority in any school.

National Service in the Army enabled Graham to raise his playing sights a few notches in company with several who, on return to Civvy Street, became household names. Graham played top class Club rugby for Harrogate and a varied array of cricket for the MCC, Free Foresters and Yorkshire Gentlemen, one of the oldest amateur Clubs in the land. At golf, at nearby Pannal, he was a low single figure handicapper at his peak, frequently going on tours with chums not least to St Andrews.

Back at Fettes, he was a solid sixth former, gained 1st XI colours for hockey, was king of the Fives Court, first home in the 1952 Open steeplechase, and, hardly surprisingly, made the annual Challenge Clock his own. Victor ludorum in every sense. He never spoke of his successes – a tough competitor yes with plenty of belief – but a man who never changed – companionable, cheerful, fair, kind, and ever approachable. Oh yes, and when he wasn’t playing games, he was a hardworking farmer like father and son, Andrew. What a man.

1950s

DAVID HOWARD, EARL OF EFFINGHAM (CW 1952–1957) David Howard passed away on 26th February 2022, aged 82.

Whilst at Fettes, David was a House Prefect and was in the Cricket XI.

The following was compiled from The Telegraph and with contributions from William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955):

He left Fettes for his National Service and joined the landing ship HMS Meon at Ras al-Jufair, Bahrain, helping to keep peace in the Persian Gulf. He was given the role of navigator’s yeoman, helping to plot co-ordinates on to a paper navigation chart. In 1962 he was selected for officer training at the Royal Naval College at Dartmouth, specialising as a signals officer. Here followed a very distinguished career. As a young officer he was given command of a ship in his twenties. He was approachable and empathetic. Key to his career in the navy was his contribution to intelligence gathering during the Cold War. In 1980 he was promoted to commander and invited to join the directorate of naval operational requirements. He was given access to highly classified Outboard passive listening devices which provided the navy with real-time intelligence about the enemy. After a couple of years, it led to his command of the special communications unit based at Leydene House, Hampshire, a school that had trained naval communicators since the middle of the Second World War. His restructuring of the training and deployment patterns for a new generation of communication technicians brought the Royal Navy in line with the US navy.

It made sense that his next posting should be to Washington, collaborating with the Americans to bring both countries up to speed with Outboard operational procedures. Between 1989 and 1992 Howard was on the British defence intelligence liaison staff in Washington during the Gulf War. Four years into his retirement Howard succeeded his uncle in the titles, becoming the 7th Earl of Effingham and 17th Baron Howard of Effingham. He sat in the Lords as a crossbencher where his experience meant that he could contribute to issues including naval strategy, war pensions, noise-induced deafness and Far East prisoners of war. In retirement Howard was not short of interests: some leisure, including squash, tennis, rugby, cricket and horse racing; others calling on his sense of duty. He was deputy lieutenant for Essex and involved with the Essex sea cadets and the Royal United Kingdom Beneficent Association. In 2003 he was elected national president of the Royal British Legion. As the holder of this office he attended the Remembrance Ceremonies at the Albert Hall and at the Cenotaph. In 2003 he was cruelly affected by a stroke leaving him paralysed apart from his right arm. He died on 26th February 2022, aged 82 after a long period of illness.

ALAN M L POTTS (Ki 1950–1955) Alan M L Potts passed away on 20th August 2021, aged 84.

Alan was the great grandson of the First Headmaster of Fettes, Dr Alexander Potts (Staff 1870–1889) (Deceased). His grandfather Dr William A Potts (SH 1879–1885) (Deceased), father Dr Charles L Potts (SH 1915–1920) (Deceased), uncle Ronald G Potts (SH 1923–1927) (Deceased) and brother Gerald G Potts (SH-Ki 1943–1949) (Deceased) all attended Fettes before Alan. During his time at school, Alan was a House Prefect, played for the 1st XI Hockey team and was presented, in Chapel, to Her Majesty the Queen on 4th July 1955. Alan was also a choral scholar, gaining a Choral Exhibition to Caius, Cambridge. He initially followed the family into education as a Schoolmaster at Christ’s Hospital, moving on to a school in Bishops Stortford. Alan then worked in business as a manager at DTC Sellotape and then at a components company. He became a lecturer at Plymouth College of Further Education from 1989–1998 before moving into consultancy and then into retirement.

CAPTAIN HARRY E FERGUSON (Gl 1950–1953) Captain Harry E Ferguson passed away on 2nd June 2021, aged 84.

At Fettes, Harry played football with the Junior Colts.

The following was written by his wife, Anne:

He left Fettes at the age of 16 and transferred to HMS Conway to begin a career in the Merchant Navy. He obtained his Ocean going Masters Certificate in 1960.

In 1965 Harry became part of a team of Hovercraft Pilots operating a Private Enterprise service on the Clyde. In 1966 he was invited by the Shell Oil Company to become their sole Hovercraft Pilot in Brunei. The Hovercraft was dispensed with in 1967 and Harry was appointed to Brunei Shell’s Marine Department. There followed a successful thirty-year career with Shell International Petroleum Company during which time he worked in Brunei, Nigeria, Sarawak and Thailand. He retired in 1994.

I send warm congratulations to Fettes on this the 150 Year Anniversary. I am saddened that Harry is not here to enjoy the beautiful, commemoration Newsletter. He would have been proud to have been part of the celebration.

JOHN A F MILLER (Ki 1951–1953) John A F Miller passed away on 20th July 2021, aged 84.

John was on the athletics team during his time at Fettes.

John phoned Fettes a month before he died to tell us that he was in palliative care and had only weeks to live. He wanted to provide some information about his life for his Fettes connections to read. He is exceptionally grateful to Fettes, saying that Fettes taught him first and foremost to stand on his own two feet. He left at 16 and very much regrets not having taken up the Headmaster’s offer of a Foundation Scholarship for his final two years. He lived in the Southwest for most of his life and has two sons, Alastair who lives in Australia and Nigel who lives in Plymouth. John had more than 50 happy years in the Southwest and spent much of his career in the motor trade.

DAVID G MIDDLETON (Gl 1952–1956) David G Middleton passed away on 9th December 2020, aged 82.

David played cricket at Fettes and was in the 3rd Cricket XI from 1955–1956. He was followed at Fettes by his brother Alan R Middleton (Gl 1956–1960) and then by his daughter Lindsay E Middleton (Ar 1983–1985) and his son James D Middleton (Gl 1989–1990).

The following was written by David’s wife, Elizabeth, and daughter, Lindsay:

David looked back fondly on his time at Fettes and maintained a keen interest in the school, attending centenary celebrations in 1970 with lifelong friend Michael Stewart (Gl 1953–1956) and many OF dinners in Newcastle with Garry Turner (Ki 1946–1948).

David qualified in chartered accountancy in Sunderland aged 22 and enjoyed a successful career as a partner in a Middlesbrough firm.

Sport, though not rugby, was hugely important to him. A talented footballer, he captained his prep school team which included Tony Gilroy (Mo 1952–1956) and finally hung up his boots at the age of 30. He was a fine squash player, a founder member and secretary of Ashbrooke Squash Club in Sunderland in the early 60s and a member of his club team in Middlesbrough, which won the county championship in 1972. Team tennis and friendly golf were also thoroughly enjoyed. Although fiercely competitive, he was scrupulously fair and magnanimous in victory. The talents of brother Alan Middleton (Gl 1956–1960) lay in cricket and golf.

David’s enduring passion was Sunderland FC. A highlight was being at Wembley in 1973 to see his team lift the trophy for only the second time in the club’s history. He remained a lifelong devotee despite almost annual relegation battles.

David was generous with his time and financial expertise, acting as treasurer for many sports clubs and local charities. He also served as a magistrate for 10 years.

OF friend Barrie Lloyd (Ki 1953–1958) has written amongst other things: “David was a man without any side: outgoing, friendly, open and interested in others rather than himself.”

A devoted husband and father of Richard, Lindsay and James and grandfather, David is sorely missed.

PROFESSOR ALEXANDER (SANDY) J WEDDERBURN (Gl 1955–1960) Professor Alexander (Sandy) J Wedderburn passed away on 31st March 2018, aged 75.

Alexander was academic whilst at Fettes leaving with three Governor’s Prizes and a Classics Scholarship to go to St. John’s College, Oxford.

The following was written by Professor Loren Stuckenbruck, Professor of New Testament at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich:

He was an outstanding scholar, who in every respect and in each of his publications came across as a highly reflective, uncompromisingly thorough, and competent theologian. His first monographs on Baptism and Resurrection: Studies in Pauline Theology against Its Graeco-Roman Background (Tübingen 1987) and The Reasons for Romans (Edinburgh 1988) demonstrated his skill in arguing a particular case with circumspect and nuance, combined with a profound feel for theological issues. Wedderburn carried out some of the most thoroughgoing research to date on the various factors which led Paul to write his Epistle to the Romans. Common to all Wedderburn’s publications was a grounding in ‘historical critical method,’ which he applied in a balanced yet persistent way. He had the capacity to grasp issues in all their variety, whilst inferring meaning in that very variety and complexity itself. Born 30th April 1942 in Edinburgh, Sandy Wedderburn had a gift for ancient languages, first at school and then from the early 1960s as student in Oxford (MA 1967) and Edinburgh (BD 1967). Early on, he developed a strong linguistic foundation in Greek and Latin, as well as a mastery of commenting on texts and objects of study with a methodological distance that would become so characteristic of his work. Between 1967 and 1971 at King’s College, Cambridge under the supervision of C.F.D. Moule, he wrote a doctoral dissertation on “Adam and Christ: an Investigation of the Background of I Corinthians 15 and Romans 5.12–21.” Both during and immediately after his doctoral studies, he engaged more directly with the German theological world during periods of research, first under the guidance of Günther Bornkamm (1969) in Heidelberg and then with Bernd Schaller in 1971–1972. Thus equipped, Wedderburn began his long spell of service at the University of St Andrews, first as Tutorial Assistant in New Testament Language and Literature (1972–1974) and then as Lecturer (1974–1989). In 1975 he was ordained in the Church of Scotland. In 1990 he moved to the Faculty of Theology at Durham University (Lecturer 1990, Senior Lecturer 1991–1994). From 1991 to 1995 he became editor of the renowned journal New Testament Studies. In 2006 Wedderburn had to leave his public teaching duties, as his health increasingly worsened. A few years prior to this, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, a Festschrift had been dedicated to him, Paul, Luke and the Graeco-Roman World (Leiden 2002; Hgg. A. Christophersen, C. Claussen, J. Frey and B. Longenecker), the contributions to which built on the research of Wedderburn’s earlier period. After his retirement, his scholarship was able to flourish, thanks to sound medical care he received in Munich and to the great support of his wife Brigitte, whom he married in 1971. Despite his increasing physical limitations, no less than four monographs appeared between 2010 and 2015. New Testament Scholarship has changed a lot in the last three decades. In the English-speaking realm narrative-literary, gender-oriented, contextual and reception-historical approaches have come to the fore. Over against such developments, the writings of Sandy Wedderburn kept alive an awareness that the holy scriptures of Christianity still pose strictly historical questions, not only today but also in the future; the scholarship of biblical theologians cannot, since the Enlightenment, ultimately get away from challenges growing out of the gap between verifiable history and claims made through the lens of faith. The theological world takes its leave of the theologian and person, Sandy Wedderburn, but his legacy will surely live on.

ANTHONY J MUSGRAVE (Ki 1955–1960) Anthony J Musgrave passed away on 19th October 2021, aged 79.

Anthony came to Fettes in 1955, following his father John R Musgrave (Ki 1930–1934). Whilst at Fettes Anthony was a School Prefect and he was in the Shooting VIII. He went on to the Royal College of Art and worked in Interior Design with Colquhoun & Miller.

PETER N M SMITH (CE 1956–1960) Peter N M Smith passed away on 17th September 2020, aged 78.

At Fettes, Peter was a School Prefect and Head of House. He made an impact on the stage in his final term, sharing the starring role of Hamlet and Horatio in the School Play with D. Richard Thorpe (CW 1956–1961) as noted in the Fettesian: 1960, Issue:1:

“When we heard what was to be the School Play the first question we all asked was ‘Have you got a Hamlet?’ When we heard that the School could provide not one Hamlet, but two, we realised not only that the drama at Fettes was flourishing in no common way, but that those of us who could attend on two nights were being offered a theatrical experience that was probably unique. To see two different actors play ‘Hamlet’ on successive nights is to invite comparison, and on comparisons Dogberry has said the last word. I have no intention of saying that either was better than the other. I assert confidently that both Thorpe and Smith played the part better than at least two professional actors whom I have seen.

“The differences between Thorpe’s and Smith’s interpretations were too many to catalogue; but they may be summed up by saying that Thorpe’s was the more poetical and Smith’s the more dramatic. Here we had both poetry and drama; and it was the attraction of the former for Thorpe and the latter for Smith that made the contrast between their performances so fascinating; but it must be said that Thorpe’s relish of the poetry did not cause him to miss any of the drama, while Smith’s valuation of the smallest dramatic possibilities tended to occlude the poetry. Smith’s histrionic equipment is more developed than Thorpe’s: his mastery of expression, attitude, gesture, and delivery commanded universal admiration— as when he replied to Polonius’ enquiry – ‘Words, words, words.’ All this must have cost immense study and thought, which the perfection of the result must be judged to have amply repaid.”

The following was written by his son, Alex (Gl 1987–1992):

After Fettes, Peter went on to Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge to read English Literature. Whilst at Cambridge Peter continued acting, where he shared the stage with a renowned vintage of performers at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Peter’s career in marketing saw him traverse multiple countries and continents, before retiring in Phuket, Thailand in 2002. He is missed by his wife Joyotee and his son Alex.

ROBERT A M YOUNG (Gl 1958–1963) Robert A M Young passed away on 16th June 2021, aged 76.

Robert followed his uncle The Lord Harry R W Moncrieff (Gl 1929–1933) (Deceased) to Fettes. Robert was a House Prefect in Glencorse and gained his colours for athletics. After Fettes, Robert went to the University of Birmingham and became a computer programmer.

The following was written by Robert’s wife, Kin Lundberg-Young:

Robert was the best husband ever and we had nearly 40 years together.

1960s

CAMPBELL C WATSON (CW 1961–1965) Campbell C Watson passed away on 26th November 2021, aged 74.

Campbell was a House Prefect and attended Fettes alongside his cousin David J Macmillan (Ca 1962–1966) with another of his cousins, Ian G Macmillan (Ca 1965–1969), following in their footsteps.

The following was published in The Scotsman:

Born in 1947 in London, Campbell was sent to board at Drumtochty Castle Preparatory School and later Fettes College in Edinburgh. The experience perhaps instilled in him the independence, self-assurance and consummate ease in social situations which defined him as a person.

Campbell completed his education at St Andrews University, graduating in law in 1972. After a spell in the Caribbean working in investment banking, where he met his wife of 37 years, Pauline, he returned to Scotland to work as a solicitor and became a partner at Andersons LLP in Kinross (formerly JL Anderson & Co). He was instrumental in building Andersons into the thriving business it is today, and continued working there until his illness.

A man of wide and varied interests, Campbell was blessed with family and a legion of close friends with whom to share those interests – skiing, golfing, diving and making music, to mention just a few.

He was particularly proud of his status as a Munro completist since 1998, and he deeply valued the time he spent in the bothies and hills with family and friends in the pursuit of that goal. He continued to enjoy spending time in the outdoors right up until the end.

It would be difficult to name a sport Campbell didn’t have an interest in, but it was football he loved the most. A Dundee fan in his youth and a long-suffering follower of the Scottish national team, he was old enough to remember good times for both; Dundee winning the league in 1962 and bunking off school in 1963 to see Scotland beat England 2–1 at Wembley.

His greatest love, however, was Liverpool FC and, as a season ticket holder he regularly travelled to Anfield to see them play.

A deep interest in people and place meant that Campbell travelled widely during his life. From his travels around South America after university to his life in the Caribbean; from his diving expeditions in the Pacific to following Liverpool, Scotland and the British Lions abroad, he managed to see much of the world. If pressed, however, he would name Assynt as his favourite place on earth.

And on a cold, wet winter’s-day, Campbell was most happy at home in Kinross in front of a roaring fire and the football.

He is survived by Pauline, his brother George, his children Ian, Stuart and Verity, and his grandchildren Barney and Lucille Watson and Sam, Isla and Alex Thwaites.

ANDREW L H ROBERTSON (Gl 1961–1965) Andrew L H Robertson passed away on 20th August 2021, aged 73.

Andrew followed in the footsteps of his grandfather Laurence H Robertson (Gl 1897–1901) and his great uncle Archibald Robertson (1899–1903). During his time at Fettes, Andrew was a House Prefect, School Prefect, in the 1st XV, Captain of Athletics and Drum Major.

The following was written by Andrew’s sister, Sue:

After attending Fettes College in Edinburgh where Andrew excelled in athletics and always the rebel against the rule (he was expelled at one point for flagrant disobedience) he took his artistic leanings to Edinburgh Art College. Here he was known as Bobby and made very good and longlasting friendships. He spent some time in Canada where he briefly joined the Canadian Stock Exchange as a trainee.

Andrew was always one for new adventures, with a quirk for doing things his own way. Leaving Canada, Andrew began a decade of travel, in the late 1960s and his 20s, and into the 1970s, particularly travelling in India but also covering Turkey, Greece, Austria, Moscow, Spain, New Delhi, Iran, Afghanistan and Niger. During this time, he conducted overland trips in small groups and hardy vehicles. Andrew’s affinity to the country and culture of India led to ultimately contributing to the co-writing and illustrating of a guidebook to the birds of Periyar National Park in Kerala using his own field observations.

It was on one of these trips that he met Jamie and they were married in London in 1979. Andrew and Jamie lived in California followed by four years in New York. During this latter time Andrew worked with the Bronx Zoo – a perfect job for this man who had an affinity for wild animals – and he once again conducted small visiting groups of people to another country – this time to Africa. Coming to live in the UK in 1984, Lily was born in 1986 and the family settled in Gloucestershire, taking a year out when Lily was only eight months old to return to India.

Divorced in 1997, Andrew continued to forge an individual life in the south of UK, coming back to live in Scotland in 2008 where he joined a Camphill community in Perthshire. This offers residential care to 25 adults unable to live at home providing various workshops in which Andrew both participated and ran. Very much part of the community, Andrew proved to be a valuable member of staff, bringing all his DIY and mechanical skills as well as his understanding of the vulnerable to this environment for eight years – until 2016 when evidence of PSP began to appear. Little known and without alleviation, progressive supra nuclear palsy, causes lockdown of motor faculties and Andrew died peacefully and was released on 20th August 2021 with his beloved daughter at his side.

A memorial service was held online in September 2021 at which his friends from all over the globe and going back many years gathered to celebrate Andrew’s life – a life filled with travel, adventures, dedication to his interests and always a desire to gain new experiences.

DAVID R FORTUNE (Ca 1961–1965) David R Fortune passed away on 6th July 2021, aged 74.

At Fettes, David played Gregory in the Carrington House Play Out of the Frying Pan and Jamy in the School Play Henry V. He also played in the 1st and 2nd XI and was a Lance Corporal in the CCF.

The following was published in East Lothian Courier:

David Ramsay Fortune of North Berwick died peacefully at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on 6th July 2021, after a short illness, aged 74 years. Beloved husband of Ailsa, dearly loved dad of Alice, Mary Louise and Catherine, much loved by Ailsa’s children Rachel, Jamie and Sarah and by the sixteen grandchildren.

MICHAEL N C GASCOIGNE (Ki 1962–1967) Michael N C Gascoigne passed away on 11th June 2021, aged 72.

At Fettes, Michael was a House Prefect, a School Prefect, Flight Sergeant in the CCF and he gained a Flying Scholarship in August 1967. In the same year, he also won the Governors’ Prize in Economics. Michael attended Fettes alongside his brother Lieutenant Colonel Patrick E Gascoigne MBE (Ki 1964–1968).

The following was written by Michael’s brother, Patrick, and published in The Scotsman:

Michael Gascoigne was brought up by his paternal grandmother from the age of three and awarded a scholarship to Fettes at thirteen. He participated fully in life at Fettes, becoming a School Prefect and excelling in the Flight section of the CCF. He secured a conditional place at Cambridge but, due to an administrative error, he ended up reading law at the University of Aberdeen.

In 1971 he was appointed as an articled clerk to Brodies WS in Edinburgh – one of Scotland’s foremost law firms. On arrival the senior partner advised him that it would benefit him to apply for membership of two august bodies: The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers (Muirfield) and The New Club, Edinburgh. With characteristic obstinacy he applied to neither. Instead, he took up trackside marshalling with the Scottish Motorsport Marshals’ Club – an unusual pastime, but one to which he devoted many years. It gave him enormous pleasure to be made President of the club in 2020. He vowed never to play golf, and kept true to his word throughout his life. At twenty-four he was the youngest person ever to be made a partner by Brodies. A sound technician, he developed a full knowledge of the law with an acquisitive interest in all aspects that affected the countryside. He became a specialist in agriculture law where his expertise and encyclopedic knowledge were regarded throughout his profession as second to none. Perhaps best described as a lawyer’s lawyer, he was a pastmaster at finding clever but sensible solutions to the knottiest legal problems and tracing a way through the maze of a complicated property transaction. He was renowned for his diligence and his deft care for clients who ranged from crofters to many of Scotland’s wealthiest and most influential landowners, all of whom he treated with the same loyalty, humility and respect. Remuneration from his cases was of no importance to him: the only thing that mattered was what was right. Foulis Castle, his childhood home, is the ancestral seat of the chiefs of the Clan Munro. When he came of age, his uncle Pat Munro, then chief, persuaded Michael to join the Council of the Clan Munro Association. He served continuously for over forty years and proved himself invaluable both in giving wise general advice and in all matters legal. This included completely rewriting the Council’s constitution, setting up the Clan Munro Heritage Museum Trust and delivering a £1.3m development at the Storehouse of Foulis on the shore of the Cromarty Firth. After Brodies, he joined Gillespie Macandrew, first as a partner and latterly as a consultant. Consultancy suited his talents, enabling him to avoid involvement with the day-today housekeeping of the business. Kind and understanding by nature, he devoted himself to mentoring young lawyers and passing on his deep knowledge, particularly of agriculture law. He had three children from his first marriage to Anna Milne: Jamie, himself a father of two, is an ecological process designer, Gemma works for Visit Scotland and Peter who is the strength and conditioning coach for the Great Britain Cycling Team.

Two years after the birth of Peter the marriage was dissolved, and in 2000 he remarried. He retired in 2016 and, cruelly, a year later Alzheimer’s was diagnosed. With unfailing support from his second wife, Linda, he battled against the odds until, out of the blue with no warning signs, he was diagnosed with incurable cancer. Eight weeks later, he died.

Michael Neill Clifton Gascoigne was born in Inverness on 1 February 1949, and died in Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy on 11th June 2021.

PETER J YOUNG (Ca 1962–1965) Peter J Young passed away on 5th November 2021, aged 72.

Peter was the son of George B Young (Ca 1928–1932) (Deceased).

The following was written by Peter’s family:

Peter joined Fettes from 1962–1965 and was in Carrington House. He was a member of Fettes Pipe Band where he played the bass drum. He participated at the Centenary Celebrations of the band in 2012. He contributed and enjoyed sports, including Rugby, Cricket, Boxing and Basketball. After Fettes, Peter had a long-term career in the International Removal Business where he relished travelling the world. Peter retired in his 60’s and pursued courses in Psychology at Strathclyde University and loved his time working as a volunteer with the MacMillan Cancer support Charity as a Team Leader.

He leaves his wife Vivian Sheila Young, children Jonathan and Zoe and grandchildren JoJo and Rosie.

ALAN E ARMITAGE (CE 1964–1968) Alan E Armitage passed away on 1st June 2022, aged 71.

During his time at Fettes, Alan was Head of House and won four Governor’s Prizes in Music and English. He was a Sergeant in the CCF, a member of the Choir and Orchestra and he gained an English-Speaking Union Scholar for St James School in Maryland.

The following was compiled from contributions by Jane, Alan’s wife, Marian Wain, his sister, and many friends, especially Alan’s OF buddies – Patrick Anketell-Jones (CE 1965–1969), Grant Lawrence (CE 1964–1968), James Mackintosh (CW 1963–1967) and Anthony Orr (CE 1964–1968):

Alan Armitage died suddenly on 1st June 2022 whilst on holiday in Ireland.

Alan was born in Jos, Northern Nigeria. His father was Director of Public Works, having previously worked as a personal advisor to the Minister of Works for Northern Nigeria. Alan was proud of his Nigerian background and all his life took an affectionate and authoritative interest in matters Nigerian. During his time at Fettes, he read a paper to the Paramaecium on a civilisation which had flourished in part of what is now Nigeria from the thirteenth century onwards. It was the first any of us had heard of the civilisation of Benin, whose bronzes are today at the centre of a heated post-colonial argument.

At the age of six Alan became a boarder at New Park Prep School in St. Andrews. By the time Alan arrived at Fettes (having won a scholarship), the family had returned to the United Kingdom, living first in Sunderland and then in Broughty Ferry since Alan’s father had been appointed a lecturer in engineering at Dundee University.

Alan was allocated to College East which was in many ways an inspired choice since the Housemaster was Michael Lester-Cribb (Staff 1949–1988) (Deceased) who was also Head of Music. Alan had no particular interest in organised games preferring a gentle game of fives (which could include an exchange of news and views between opponents) to the rough and tumble of the scrum. His real love was music. He sang tenor in the Choir and played the clarinet in the Orchestra. He also played the piano and walked off almost invariably with the top prize in whatever category of the Piano Competition he was playing. He acted both in School Plays (Ben Johnson’s Volpone) and House Plays (Terence Rattigan’s Ross). He studied for scientific A Levels and was appointed Head of College East in his last term – in many ways a courageous decision by David Pighills (Staff 1960–1975) since “heartiness” (of the sporting type) had previously been seen as a requirement for the post.

After two terms at St James School in Maryland USA on an English-Speaking Union scholarship, Alan went to York University and graduated with a BA Honours degree in Mathematics and Computer Science. He then went to work for International Computers Ltd. (ICL), based primarily in the UK but also with a stint in Brussels. In 1981 Alan married Jane and the clan grew with the arrival of Alice, Edwin (Win) and Eleanor (Nell). They lived firstly in Aylesbury and later in Oxford. Alan continued to work for some years for ICL but after a shorter period with another company decided to launch himself full time into politics. He represented local wards on both the Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council where he ended up as Lord Mayor of Oxford. He also unsuccessfully contested the Westminster seat of Wantage in the 2010 election, where he came a respectable second with 28% of the vote.

At the end of his time as Lord Mayor, Alan returned to his roots in Edinburgh settling in Stockbridge – a very different place from the Stockbridge of the 1960s. His life there was hectic but that was how he liked it. By his own admission he sat on any Committee which invited him. He became a regular presence at the New Club.

Alan’s greatest enthusiasm was music. Wherever he was – York, London, Brussels, Aylesbury, Oxford, Edinburgh – he would join the local choir and orchestra. If there was not a suitable one Alan would create one. He conducted, composed, played, and sang with them and for them. He would also stand in where necessary. The string section is short of double bass players? Alan would sit down and learn the double bass. Nor was he anything if not eclectic in his tastes – Beethoven and Berg were for Alan part of the great tapestry of music.

Alan is survived by his wife Jane, his sister Marian Wain, his three children and now three grandchildren.

PETER WYATT (Ca 1967–1972) Peter Wyatt passed away in October 2021, aged 67.

Whilst at Fettes, Peter participated in judo, and was in the ski team and the ski section of the CCF. He was in subaqua and played in the 3rd XV and the 3rd XI. He left Fettes to study law and became a solicitor. He was joined at Fettes by his brother, Eric Wyatt (Ca 1971–1976), in 1971.

The following was written by his brother, Eric, and Philip Wragg (Ca 1966–1971):

Peter Ronald Macdonald Wyatt was born in Alor Star, Malaya in 1953. He attended Prep School in the UK at the age of eight and came to Fettes at thirteen, followed by his brother Eric. Whilst at Fettes he showed great flair in sport such as cricket, rugby, fencing, judo, sub-aqua, CCF ski section and… managing to date the Housemaster’s daughter. Peter attended Dundee University where he gained his degree in Scottish law. He then attended law college in England to allow him to practise English law. After finishing as an articled clerk, he worked for a London firm that also sent him to run their offices in Washington and Riyadh. As a lawyer, he had a great skill in talking to clients first and applying the law later. He really got to the nub of a client’s problem. He had great compassion and a solid sense of justice. Peter’s Fettes friends, Philip Wragg (Ca 1966–1971), Stewart McConkey (Ca 1967–1972), Alistair Campbell (Ca 1967–1971), Neil Bennett (Ca 1967–1972) and Jock (Mike) Robertson (Ca 1967–1972) all recall him as full of fun, generously spirited, congenial, and supportive. Peter is missed by his wife Maki, his daughter Izzy, his brother Eric, and sister Joanna, along with his friends and colleagues.

PETER R C WALSH (Ca 1967–1970) Peter R C Walsh passed away on 23rd July 2021, aged 68.

He was in Carrington 1967–1970. Whilst at Fettes he was in the School Play, he was Treasurer of the Stamp Club and enjoyed the Motor Club and the Photographic Society. He went on to study business. He lived in Burford, Oxfordshire where he passed away in July 2021.

SIMON A SCOTT (Gl 1969–1974) Simon A Scott passed away on 15th July 2021, aged 65.

Simon followed his father John M Scott (Gl 1933–1938) (Deceased) and his uncle Freddie B Scott, MC (Gl 1935–1939) (Deceased) to Fettes College. His sister Sarah E Boisseau (née Scott) (Ca 1974–1975) also attended Fettes and became the first Fettesienne to send her child to the School when Simon’s niece Lora E Ward (née Boisseau) (Inv-CE 1995–2001) joined. Simon’s nephews Charlie D Boisseau (Gl 2001–2002), Harry J Boisseau (Inv-Gl 1999–2006) and Bun G Boisseau (Inv-Gl 1999–2009) also attended along with Simon’s children Tom S Scott (Inv-Gl 2000–2007) and Jack B Scott (Inv-Gl 2000–2008).

During his time at Fettes, Simon was a House Prefect and a Secretary of the Phoenix Society. He played in the Hockey 3rd XI and played many roles in various School and House Plays including ‘a very realistic Lucy’ in the Glencorse House Play, The Rivals. Simon was awarded the Governors’ Prize for History in 1974 and gained a 1st class Army Scholarship to Sandhurst.

The following was written by Ross Leckie (Gl 1971–1975) and published in The Guardian:

My friend Simon Scott, who has died aged 65, was one of the most accomplished advertising copywriters of his generation. “You can’t get better than a Kwik Fit fitter” was Simon’s. If he overdid it with “Bank of Scotland, a Friend for Life”, his campaign for the Scottish Labour party in 1998–99 under the tag “Divorce is an expensive business” is still considered the reason for the SNP’s poor showing in those first elections to the Scottish parliament.

Simon was born in Harare, Zimbabwe (then known as Salisbury, in Rhodesia), to Lora (née Miller), an interior designer, and John Scott, a major in the Cameronians regiment who later became a stockbroker. In his father’s eyes, Simon was destined for the army, and after attending Fettes College in Edinburgh, where he and I were contemporaries, he went to Sandhurst.

However, his time there was not a success, and a subsequent law degree from Sussex University also failed to bring forth his vocation. He followed his father into stockbroking, but that did not fit either.

Already writing in snatches and snaps, Simon joined MacLean Dubois, writers and agents, in Edinburgh. From there he moved to Collett Dickenson & Pearce, where clients included Heineken, Benson & Hedges and Dewars, and then to Saatchi & Saatchi, working for Tennents and the Scottish government. Next, he took his brio to Faulds, a new agency, as creative director before, in 1996, he co-founded, in Edinburgh, the Union, which has since become as successful an agency as any outside London.

With his wife Jane (née Starrett), a graphic designer whom he married in 1984, Simon restored and furnished a number of fine Georgian houses, where they raised their sons, Tom and Jack, and entertained friends and family with great generosity and flair. They bought – and sold – a farm in South Africa, before settling finally in East Lothian.

There they seemed very happy. Simon loved his family and many friends; parties, poetry and laughter, wine and whisky and song. He also loved buying and selling antiques, reading, and, of course, writing.

But in the end, the vagaries of his mind overcame him. Simon decided, in Yeats’s words, which he quoted often, that he “must lie down where all the ladders start/ In the foul rag and bone shop of the heart”; and he took his own life.

He is survived by Jane, Tom and Jack, and his sister Sarah.

1970s

RICHARD GOODWIN (Gl 1973–1977) Richard Goodwin passed away on 6th September 2021, aged 62.

At Fettes, Richard was a House Prefect and in the Choir. He was a Library Secretary and was a member of the Royal Navy Section. He left Fettes to study Classics at the University of St. Andrews. He has a younger brother David C Goodwin (Gl 1980–1985).

The following was written by his brother, David:

My brother Richard sadly succumbed to cancer on 6th September 2021 after a very brief battle with the disease. He was 62.

At school, I know he was in the navy side of the CCF as he mentioned sailing from Granton harbour.

He graduated from St Andrews with a degree in Classics, joined HMRC in IT for a number of years before moving to Aberdeen where he worked for NHS Grampian, then moved to SAIC where one of his project managers was Richard Prime (Gl 1977–1982) and latterly he was employed by Wipro until he took early retirement. Unfortunately, with the pandemic and then sudden diagnosis of cancer, he didn’t get the chance to enjoy the benefits.

He leaves his wife Elaine and a number of nephews and nieces as well as myself, his brother, missing him lots.

BRUCE A DINGWALL CBE (SH 1973–1978) Bruce A Dingwall CBE passed away on 3rd August 2021, aged 61.

As a student at Fettes, Bruce was House Prefect, Captain of both the swimming team and the 2nd Squash team. He also played in the 3rd XI Hockey team and the 2nd Shooting team. He was a member of the Film Club and was a Lance Corporal in the Army branch of the CCF. Bruce’s brother, Hamish H Dingwall (SH 1969–1974) attended Fettes before him. Bruce then sent his three sons, Jack (Mo 2007–2012), Hugh (Mo 2009–2014) and Archie (PS-Mo 2012–2018), to Fettes. Long after Bruce left Fettes, he continued to make significant contributions to life at school, becoming a Foundation Trustee in 2008 and then Chair of the Foundation from June 2017 until his passing. He was also a Governor of the Fettes Trust from July 2013 until his passing and Deputy Chair of the Governors from 2016 to 2020. His impact on the school cannot be underestimated and he is greatly missed by many people who had the privilege of working with him at Fettes.

The following was written by Bruce’s wife, Philippa, and his eldest son, Jack:

Bruce was born 1st October 1959 in Point a Pierre, Trinidad. Son of the late Ian and Kathleen Dingwall, the family moved to the West Indies in 1956. Bruce grew up enjoying an idyllic childhood living in bare feet with a school, golf course, pool and yacht club all within walking distance of the family home.

In 1973, aged 14, Bruce arrived at Fettes College in Edinburgh. He revelled in meeting new friends and embraced every opportunity he was offered. Fettes had a profound impact on Bruce throughout his life; his three sons Jack, Hugh and Archie all attended whilst Bruce was later appointed as a Fettes Foundation Trustee in 2008 and Chairman in 2017 along with Governor of the School in 2013 and Deputy Chair in 2016.

After leaving school in 1978, Bruce went on to study Geology at the University of Aberdeen. Swimming remained a large part of his life with Bruce being awarded a sporting blue and competing for Scotland. It was also at Aberdeen he met Philippa.

Bruce then worked for Exxon for two years before joining an independent British oil company, LASMO. There followed a brief stint in London and in 1988 Bruce was posted abroad, initially to Pakistan. He and Philippa were married in 1992 and made their first home in Karachi. It was no surprise that when Bruce returned to Scotland in 1997 to start his new business, Venture, many former colleagues and friends joined him.

Venture had its roots in Trinidad but focussed on the UK North Sea. Bruce shook up an industry which had previously been dominated by major oil companies. Whilst CEO of Venture, Bruce was also President of UKOOA (United Kingdom Offshore Operators Association). He was awarded a CBE in the 2004 New Year’s Honours List for services to the oil and gas industry and was recently described as “one of the North Sea’s leading lights”. Venture was ultimately acquired by Centrica in 2009 for £1.3bn.

Trinidad remained in Bruce’s heart so in 2004 he acquired Venture’s Trinidadian, a business that he led until his death in August. Bruce combined his love for his birthplace with an overarching passion for oil and gas to create what is now a successful business based in Trinidad, just three miles from his birthplace.

In 2005 he introduced his family to sailing and they spent many wonderful holidays on the water in remote areas of the world. Bruce had recently returned to the pool competing in several Masters events around Europe – even managing to bring home some medals!

What really set Bruce apart was his ability to make “his friends believe they could achieve more” and his total enthusiasm for life. His passion, fun and positivity rubbed off on everyone he met and all of us are better for having known him.

Bruce is survived by his wife Philippa, sons Jack, Hugh and Archie, siblings Louise and Hamish and mother Kathleen.

SCOTT P DOUTHETT (SH 1973–1976) Scott P Douthett passed away on 16th July 2021, aged 63.

During his time at Fettes, Scott was a House Prefect and in the History VI. He also regularly played his electric guitar in House and took part in Outside Service.

The following was published in The Westport Local Press:

Scott Peter Douthett, 63, of New York and Tunkhannock, passed away at Allied Hospice on Friday 16th July 2021.

Scott was born in Pittsburgh, on 31st December 1957, the son of the late Scott H. Douthett and Anne E. Harris.

Scott was an IT consultant and had a long career in the financial services industry. He started out at Merrill Lynch and worked as a project manager at various financial services groups including Thomson Reuters and Wipro.

Scott grew up in Westport, Connecticut, then went to high school at Fettes College in Edinburgh, Scotland. He graduated from Columbia University, and lived in Battery Park City, N.Y., for most of his life before moving to Tunkhannock. Scott enjoyed sailing for many years and was happiest on the water. He loved music and was a talented guitarist.

He is survived by his daughter, Emma Dawn Douthett of Tunkhannock; his sister, Diane Surat of Connecticut, and in London, England; his step-mother, Gill MacCabe; sisters: Gillian and Amy Douthett; niece, Chloe; and nephews: Felix and Tom.

DR ALEXANDER K DOO (SH 1979–1984) Dr Alexander K Doo passed away on 3rd July 2021, aged 55.

At Fettes, Alexander was a School Prefect and a genuine all-rounder. He excelled in sport, he was in the 1st XV and competed in athletics, notably discus. He played tennis, swam and enjoyed fencing. He was in the Orchestra, the Wind Band and the Choir and was the winning Producer of the One Act Play. He left Fettes to study Medicine at the University of Glasgow.

The following was published by The Women’s Clinic in Hong Kong:

Alexander chose to specialise in obstetrics and gynaecology, he embarked on postgraduate training in the UK elevating to Clinical Fellow at St. George’s Hospital, London in Reproductive Medicine and Foetal Ultrasound Imaging. He returned to Hong Kong in 2001, joining The Women’s Clinic where he was Medical Director. He was highly respected amongst both his patients and his colleagues and is greatly missed. He died aged just 55, beloved husband of Ivy, devoted father of Alistair Milton and Isaac Atherton.

1980s

GAEL ROBERTSON-GORVY (NÉE ROBERTSON) (Ar 1982–1987) Gael RobertsonGorvy (née Robertson) passed away on 6th September 2021, aged 52.

During her time at Fettes, Gael was Head of House, a School Prefect and she was Captain of the 3rd Hockey XI. Gael was also a Corporal in the CCF and played in the Pipe Band. Gael’s sister Sallie J Robertson (Ar 1982–1984) also attended Fettes.

The following was written by Marjorie Coughlan (née Corner) (Ar 1982–1987):

Although Gael had been living with cancer for five years, she kept her illness hidden from all but a very small circle of family and friends, so her death is not only a huge sadness, but it has sent a shock wave through the wider circle of the many people who loved her – especially in our own age group for whom mortality is perhaps something we tend to hold at bay.

Gael arrived at Fettes in September 1982 at the same time as her older sister Sallie went into the Sixth Form. It was the first year that girls were admitted into the lower school and there weren’t very many of us; Gael was one of the first three girls to go all the way through the school. More often than not, she was to be found in the art room and she contributed her skills as a writer and an artist to the editorial team of The Fettesian, as well as set and costume design. She was a drummer in the Pipe Band. She was a wise and popular Head of House and School Prefect. Her A-level teachers all wanted her to pursue their subject, but it was the Pippa Donald (Staff 1984–2006) (Deceased)/Tony Reeves (Staff 1983–2014) dream team that won the day, and Gael truly excelled at English. She went on to read English at Pembroke College, Cambridge.

In her final year at Cambridge, two life-changing events happened: Gael became ill with ME and she met Sean, whom she would go on to marry. Her struggles with her health meant she had to postpone her plans to return to Edinburgh following her graduation, to study for a year at Leith School of Art under Marc Cheverton and Lottie Cheverton (Staff 1983–1987), who, along with John Brown (Staff 1971–1986), had been her much loved art teacher at Fettes. And so, alas, this was not to be, as the couple were tragically killed in a car crash in September 1991.

After supporting Sean in completing his PhD, they moved to London where Gael pursued her training in both fine arts and photography and later also as a writer. Following the atrocities of 9/11, Gael’s response was to seek unity, and the result was an exhibition Breathing Spaces (2002) shown in and taken of each of the interiors of four community buildings: the Roman Catholic Brompton Oratory, the Protestant St. Columba’s Church, Westminster Synagogue, and the Ismaili Centre – details of often overlooked parts of their buildings, an interplay of light and shadow – all very understated but powerful and giving gentle nudges – so Gael! With this and future work, she garnered a reputation for her sensitive response to architectural and interior spaces. Further exhibitions and publications were As Fire Fades (2004), Thoroughly Modern Living (2004), Memories, Dreams and Fairy Tales (2006) and Naming the Beloved (November 2018).

Rowing and cycling both figured large in Gael’s family life. She had done some rowing in her first year at Cambridge. Sean rowed for the university and inspired by him, Gael became involved, supporting him in setting up Crabtree Rowing Club for Cambridge University Boat Club alumni and learning to scull herself. Their son Cal also rowed at Eton (where his housemaster was Johnnie Jackson (Ki 1994–1999)) and, before switching to rowing, was on the British Cycling Talent Development pathway. Again, Gael became actively involved herself, giving her all, as she did in everything she put her hand to. In 2019, Gael and Sean cycled from her London cancer hospital to the Cambridge Cancer Research Centre at Addenbrooke’s to raise money for One More City, and there is now a JustGiving page for donations to One More City in Gael’s memory: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/GaelGorvy-Robertson.

It speaks volumes for Gael’s character that her anonymous Instagram profile was not only filled with beautiful and intellectually stimulating content, but also became a support hub for other women across the world with stage 4 breast cancer. Unsurprisingly for all those who knew her, her focus was as much on the bigger, future picture as on her determination to live life as normally as possible. Gael managed to tick off some of her bucket list. She came back enthused and energised from a trip to the US with Kirsty Wilson (SH 1986–1987) in 2019, taking in a Bruce Springsteen concert and Yosemite National Park.

When lockdown and isolation descended in March 2020, Kirsty along with two other close friends provided both practical and emotional support, sometimes, heartwrenchingly, just to leave a bag of groceries on the doorstep. Sallie moved in to care for her in her last few months. Gael had always been there to support her beloved Cal and was so proud of him. She was determined to be there to celebrate his 18th birthday and see him head to university, and against all the odds, she more than managed both, so happy to see him head to the US and towards his future.

There have been a few Fettes reunions, both formal and informal, over the years, and Gael loved them. The next one certainly won’t be the same without her, but we will no doubt raise a glass, share stories and memories of our beautiful friend, and feel her presence among us.

2000s

NED CARPENTER (Ki 2001–2005) Ned Carpenter passed away on 23rd January 2022, aged 34.

At Fettes, Ned was Head Boy and a keen sportsman, competing in the 1st XV, the 3rd Cricket XI and the 4th Hockey XI. He also gained his Gold Duke of Edinburgh award while at school and was awarded the Governor’s Prize in Physics.

The following was written by Ali Paul (Ki 2000–2005) and Ned’s brother, Guy:

It is with great sadness and difficulty that I sit here today tasked with writing this message. Ned was a truly unique and talented man who entertained, challenged, and philosophised. He was on a different plane from most of us, but he never looked down – he was humble, appreciative and self-deprecating. This was despite his very many achievements at Fettes and beyond.

At Fettes, Ned excelled academically, played for the 1st XV, sang bass in the Chapel Choir, amused us on stage, and demonstrated incredible talent as an artist. Ned was an allrounder but not in the average sense – he was at the top of his game in every department.

Ned’s range and depth of talents were offset by a soft eccentricity, cheeky sense of humour and a desire to test authority. Ned did not, therefore, find the position of Head Boy particularly comfortable but, as ever, he rose to the challenge inimitably. He was a unifier not in spite of but because of his differences. He used his humour, intelligence, and thespian instincts to lead the school. We – and Fettes – were lucky to have him.

After Fettes, Ned studied Engineering at Cambridge and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) before embarking on a career as an engineer, ending up at Dyson where he took on various roles including teaching students at The Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology. Copied below is the speech that Ned gave to his students on their graduation in 2018 – it says it all. They, too, were lucky to have him.

“Work hard to find your special strength. We’ve all got one, whether it simply be a matter of comparative advantage turned real or a true tendency or gift. And hold onto it. Daren’t forget it. Let no one try to normalise it. That part is you. You’ve all got a bushel and there’s something hiding in it. Work hard to find it and then help it to grow. Like a chick within a shell, at some point the home you know will be too small for you. At least I hope so.

“Be sensitive to the way people feel. Obey the rules of command and human decency. These are universal and you know what they are. Be fair always. Be harsh when needed to be, but don’t be seduced towards enjoying punishment, whether received or inflicted. That’s just nasty. Be gentle with those who don’t have the requisite knowledge. Once they have it, they may well surprise you. However, do not confuse knowledge with ingenuity. The latter requires none of the former, and the former none of the latter.

“Be free in your expression and language. Quite when the compartmentalisation and segregation of subjects began, I am not sure. What I do know is that this has caused lost growth. Art and science need not be at two ends of a spectrum. Unfading beauty resides in engineering. You do have to scratch away sometimes, mind! And there are more useful tools to be pilfered from thespians and historians than you will ever find in a user manual.

“Above all, grow. This is your time, and everyone else’s. We all have the potential to run apace through this life. Listen and you may well accomplish this. Listen to elders, that should be obvious. Listen to juniors, it is often the ‘unsullied’ mind that pierces through the fog. But more importantly than these, listen to yourself. Have faith in your instincts, they have taken some time to develop! Listen to your bodies. I would advocate yoga, but other means to connect the mind with the senses are also available! Be sure to negotiate that standing desk into your work contract!

“Don’t stop to smell the roses for too long. You may get caught in a thorn.

“Denounce everything in the search for truth. Forget Rumsfeld’s unknown unknowns, at your peril. You will never know everything there is to know but what stale hell would we live in if we could! The joy is in the journey. We’ve all heard that before, yes. The part that’s missing is that the journey need not stop!

“As far as I am concerned you have been through a long test of introductions. You have met the principal subjects in your chosen field. But this is just the beginning for you. You are no engineer, just yet! That will come with practise. Lots and lots of it! There is virtually no end to what engineers can do. They make the world; bankers just move it around (so I paraphrase my old director of studies). We need you. We need you urgently. That’s obvious.

“My parents’ generation squandered, and with such panache and flair! Just think 70s flares and the hair of the 80s! Wowser! My generation was worse, though. We are the embodiment of the second son. The one who buried the coin in the hope that it would still be there for his father’s summons. My generation has put its head in the ground and is waiting for a miracle.

“That younger generations fix the problems of old is self-evident. You will create more problems for the next lot behind you, of that I can be sure! The hopes of the old seek the young. Listen to them, for their perspective is impossible to attain without years. They are by and large hilarious, too, as they shed their outward beauty years ago, and selfish pride with it. Old people are awesome! Get to know one, or several.

“Never ever, ever stop learning! If I hear that you have stopped asking questions and no longer engage with debate, I will be deeply sad. Engineering is spoken in mathematics, but it is more than endless calculation. It is a powerful mindset of enquiry, through which the accomplishments and optimism of humanity are founded.

“It is only through enquiry that we can break new ground and satisfy our explorative nature. Never stop asking, just learn when to leave it until the next day! Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Yes! That’s what we are, I’ve said it enough. Intrepid explorers. And what joy that is, and it will remain so if you choose for it.

“You’ve been lucky. You’ve been unlucky. That’s just part of life. But it’s through adversity, not comfort, that we grow!

“Discern what is of good quality. Hold it high wherever you find it, whether it’s your doing or not! Widespread mediocrity is no excuse for mediocrity. Please take that and store it somewhere safe and easily accessible. The subjugation of man has created a class structure and with it, in some, a desire to control. Don’t turn the other cheek, just run.

“Don’t wish for war. It has been overly romanticised. The reality is that PTSD can break anyone. Instead, wish for challenges. Wish for adversaries! Were it not for an ideological battle between two nation states, man would never have reached the moon. Learn to love your adversaries, for you owe them much.

“Learn a skilful and hasty apology. Mistakes happen. Be the first to recognise them and favour with further. Try not to ridicule. Some have found themselves in the wrong profession. Be forgiving up to a point. Allow no patience for a third chance. Life is short but therein lies its value.

“I said run earlier. What I meant was fly. This paradigm of nature’s superiority should be a constant reminder of man’s limitations. If not flying then, why not hovering, eradicating, cooling. Bring joy as well as an armoury of sharp well-honed tools. You’re going to need both. Good luck and do yourself proud!”

Former Staff and Friends of Fettes

DORIS JONES (NÉE SHAW) (Staff 1948–1976) Doris Jones (née Shaw) passed away on 2nd November 2021.

Doris Jones (née Shaw) was Matron in Schoolhouse from 1948–1976. She married staff member F Alan Jones (Staff 1952–1976) (Deceased) in 1957. Doris played a great part in Fettes activities, having helped to costume eleven school plays. Doris and Alan had two sons, Nicholas (SH 1973–1977) and Nigel (SH 1977–1982).

JOHN H ROBSON (Staff 1956–1959) John H Robson passed away on 14th June 2021, aged 88.

This extract from The Fettesian 1959 shows John’s many contributions to Fettes:

“John Robson came to us in September 1956, and it is with no ordinary or conventional regret that we bid him goodbye. He has given something far more than fine classical scholarship to the classical VIth, for his thoughts are not bounded by the classics. Nor has his interest in Fettes been confined to his classical specialists. He has, for instance, become a keen student of the game of rugger, which a disability prevented him from playing himself. He has sought opportunities to teach Latin to low forms and has devoted himself to the work of assistant Housemaster of Inverleith. He has run the Shakespeare Society and the Chess Club; and he has set the standard in any discussion group which he has joined for an evening, and his conversation has always been both interesting and stimulating; for his views on a great variety of subjects command respect. It has been a delight and a privilege to have him here, and we hope he will keep in touch with us and come and visit us.”

The following was written by his brother-in-law, Andrew J Edwards (Ca 1953–1958):

Brought up in Staffordshire, John came to Fettes after completing a double first at Oxford. We all regarded him as perhaps the cleverest man we had ever met. Razor-sharp in intellect, incisive, and full of insights on a formidable variety of subjects, vigorously projected in a strong voice, he made an unforgettable impression. He loved to dissect weak arguments, by politicians, sportsmen and visiting preachers not least, always in a highly entertaining way.

Alongside this, he took the keenest interest in people at Fettes, staff and pupils alike. Fifty years later, he still recalled with relish the eccentricities of fellow masters, not least Freddie Macdonald (Staff 1925–1962) (Deceased) presiding with a massive typewriter over collective composition of the Founder’s Day Vive-la. For his pupils, he managed to transform the teaching of an extraordinarily narrow curriculum, based on translating difficult classical texts, into an enlightening experience. His pupils at Fettes later won many scholarships to Oxbridge or other universities which he helped them to choose.

After Fettes he became ever more successful, the more senior he became. Having taught at Merchant Taylors’ and Bristol Grammar Schools, he served for 20 years, 1969–90, as a highly esteemed Headmaster of Bury Grammar School in Lancashire. Staunchly Conservative, he led the former State Grammar School to independence and developed there a highly successful independent school, with outstanding teaching and facilities across the sciences, arts and games and a keen focus, as at Fettes, on giving all pupils the best possible chance of achieving academic distinction and success in life.

Retiring to Ludlow, he read voraciously and devoted much time to preaching and visiting the elderly as a greatly respected Reader in the Church of England. No less exemplary was the care he gave to his wife Ruth, my sister, who survived for five years after some debilitating strokes. His family will miss him sorely, as will countless former pupils, colleagues and parishioners.

SUSAN LESTER-CRIBB (Staff 1976–1992) Susan Lester-Cribb passed away on 8th June 2021, aged 89.

This extract from The Fettesian 1992 shows what an important part of Fettes Susan was:

“Part time music teacher, Full time pillar of the establishment, Confidante to generations of pupils musical or not for 30 years.

“Mrs. L-C, like Nanny, was always there. You never questioned it. She’d be in her room, busy, waiting, just for you to come in. And then she’d be whoever, or however, you needed her to be that day, and still be nanny underneath. You see, you could talk to her — really talk. Tell her what had gone wrong, or right, tell her what you didn’t really know you knew until you heard yourself telling her — and then you knew that that was what you’d wanted to talk to someone about all day. And she’d listen, listen quietly and sympathetically, humorously. When you’d finished, she’d say something kind and bolstering, and then talk about something else whilst getting you started on your scales or sight reading.”

The following was written by Susan’s daughter, Martha (Da 1985–1987):

Mum, the eldest daughter of a vicar and a cellist, was born in the Australian outback. Music was in her blood – her grandfather was organist at Salisbury Cathedral and assistant at Westminster Abbey (coronations a speciality – he played for three!). He was, however, appalled by her Aussie accent. Resultant elocution lessons gave her beautifully rounded vowels.

During the war, her school was evacuated to The Bishop’s Palace in Wells where she delighted in climbing the ruins and swimming in the moat. From 1950 she studied piano at The Royal College of Music, winning several prizes. Later she won a scholarship to study bassoon (her second instrument) in Vienna.

In 1963 she took over a set of teaching jobs in Edinburgh, becoming 2nd bassoon in the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, 1st in the Reid Orchestra, teaching at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music in Glasgow and playing in the Edinburgh Wind Quintet. One of her schools was Fettes where, her mother told her, “That frightfully nice chap, Michael Lester-Cribb, works” (Dad too had Wiltshire roots). They married in Salisbury during the 1966 February half term. Together they contributed a huge amount to Edinburgh music, including running The Occasional Orchestra and putting on countless recitals.

From the early 1970s until the late ’80s our lodgers were a series of 6th form Fettes girls, two at a time – first at 5 West Woods and then at Wardie Avenue. Mum was a surrogate mother to many and long-term friends with most.

She was responsible for the Fettes Junior School music – believing children should be introduced to a range of hobbies and giving all pupils the experience of making music via their Form Band.

Mum was an enthusiast – for other people’s interests as well as her own. She wrote poetry, loved the theatre and cinema as well as concerts. An incredibly generous and supportive person and my greatest friend. Typically, her last words were “Thank you” and I was glad to be able to be with her when she died peacefully at home.

JEAN WEEKES (Staff 1979–1994) Jean Weekes passed away on 16th October 2021.

Jean was the wife of The Revd Dr David Weekes (Chaplain 1974–1994) and Senior Girls’ Mistress from 1979–1982. In 1982 Jean became the first Housemistress of Fettes College when she began looking after Arniston from 1982 until 1994. David and Jean’s three children, Dr Richard Weekes (JS-Ca 1976–1984), Catriona Bhatti (née Weekes) (Ar 1982–1986) and The Revd Robin Weekes (JS-Mo 1983–1991) also attended Fettes College. Jean was an important part of Fettes’ history and valued by staff and students alike as can be seen from the following extracts from her Valete in the 1994 Fettesian:

“Arniston was chosen to have its boys dispersed and be filled with girls. Jean seemed the ideal person to run such a house, and the years since have done nothing but confirm the wisdom of that decision. It was a crucial one.

“Warm, sympathetic and wise, she was the sort of person girls naturally turn to in trouble, and she could spare infinite time and concern for their worries.

“As Chaplain’s wife as well as Housemistress, Jean knew how to make Arniston a hospitable place, and endless groups of assorted pupils (and staff) will gratefully remember the warmth of the atmosphere and the way they could relax there, as conversation flowed and the world was put right again and again.

“What made her such a fine Housemistress? Probably, above all, the way she cared so intensely about her girls. If ever they found themselves grumbling that she was too fussy about dress or expected too much of them, they knew deep inside that it all came from her concern for them. She wanted them to be the best people they could possibly be, and they seldom wanted to disappoint her. This is what so many of them will remember, and what Fettes will remember.”

The following was written by Jean’s son, Robin:

As the first ever housemistress at Fettes, my mother Jean Weekes blazed a trail in a unique and wonderful way. It all began when the Headmaster’s wife, Mrs ChenevixTrench, asked her to teach cookery in the kitchen at The Lodge as a voluntary activity to mixed groups of boys and girls. Aware of her gifts, one of that Headmaster’s last acts was to appoint her as Mistress in charge of the forty Sixth Form girls scattered around in private homes outside the College. Then at Arniston, one of the many girls who passed through her care was Jess Connell (Ar 1990–1992) who was appointed Head of House. She recalls, “Arriving at Fettes in the Lower Sixth, hundreds of miles away from home, lacking in confidence and not having been through the school from the beginning, you can imagine that anxiety levels were off the scale. I shouldn’t have worried because from day one someone had my back. Mrs Weekes was the most wonderful and caring person who shaped my final years of school education and provided me and the other girls in Arniston House with the building blocks needed to step forward into life’s arena. I was lucky enough to spend time with Mrs Weekes during Religious Studies (RS) lessons and within the evenings and weekends in house. I valued these times and got a lot out of our discussions together. I will be forever grateful for her guiding hand and wisdom.”

However, as Jess points out, there was much more to Mum than being a Housemistress. She started out as and remained a very fine teacher. As Head of what in those days was called the Remedial Department she taught English, both as a foreign language, especially to Japanese pupils, and learning support. In addition, she went on to teach religious studies. I’m sure countless OFs will remember discovering great things in Mark’s gospel as my mother taught them GCSE Religious Studies. I enjoyed RS so much that I chose it for A level. The RS department was rather small at the time, consisting of just my mother – and my father! So, I had the unusual joy of having each of them for six periods a week. My love for the Old Testament in particular was ignited by my mother, and all those I know who opted for RS A level never regretted it.

Others will remember my Mum for opening up her home. Many new staff over the years found themselves welcomed early on in their time at Fettes round my parents’ dining table enjoying a meal, or in our sitting room having coffee. And who can forget the weekly “Open House” my parents used to run first in the West Woods and then in Arniston? Pupils crammed into every nook and cranny of their sitting room demolishing my Mum’s world-famous flapjacks and nanaimo bars as we enjoyed exploring the claims of Jesus Christ together and their significance for us.

Mum is much missed. She leaves behind an amazing legacy of girls’ education at Fettes. And as a wonderful teacher of, and witness to, the Christian faith.

ELSA MCQUAKER (Staff 1981–1991) Elsa McQuaker passed away on 26th May 2021.

Below is Elsa’s Valete published in The Fettesian 1992:

“Mrs Elsa McQuaker retired at the end of the autumn term 1991 after more than 10 years of loyal service as Accountant. Elsa first came to Fettes in February 1981 on a temporary basis but within a very short time became indispensable and was appointed to the position of Accountant.

“Elsa originally trained as a nurse and her nursing qualifications combined with her accounting skills ensured that the finances of the school were in safe and caring hands. Over the years Elsa became a good friend of parents and pupils and her sympathetic and friendly attitude often gave great solace to a new third former or, as often as not, an older and supposedly wiser sixth former who had produced somewhat sheepishly from an inside pocket, a crumpled cheque for the term’s fees, rather later than the first day of term.

“Elsa was also a great help to members of staff at all levels in dealing with the arcane convolutions of income tax, insurance and other tedious matters sent to try them. One of Elsa’s major achievements whilst at Fettes was the introduction of the computer but such was her adaptability and interest in the new technology that very soon she had become the Scottish expert in computerised school accounting systems. Many bursars and accountants in sister schools owe much to Elsa for the help she gave them in sorting out their bits from their bytes and roms from rams.

“Elsa also devoted much of her time to looking after the finances of the Common Room – a task not to be underrated and probably more onerous than looking after the finances of the school!

“Elsa was, and still is, a great traveller and one of the highlights of her time at Fettes was her participation in the 1987 expedition to the Himalayas when she was a tower of strength in often very challenging circumstances. It was very appropriate therefore that at her farewell party last December, Elsa was presented with a camera which has been put to good use in recording the several foreign journeys which she has made since her retirement.

“We wish Elsa and her husband Alan many more happy years of retirement and travel. Fettes is indebted to her.”

ROBERT DOUGLAS MILLER (Former Governor 1981–1986) Robert Douglas Miller passed away on 9th June 2021, aged 84.

Robert Douglas Miller was a Governor of Fettes College from 1981–1986. His son Edward J Douglas Miller (Ar-Ki 1980–1983) attended Fettes during the time he was a Governor.

The following was published in The Scotsman:

Robert Douglas Miller, who has died aged 84, was the Chairman of Jenners which was until 2005 the oldest independent department store in the world, having first opened its Edinburgh doors in 1837. A descendant of James Kennedy through his mother, Douglas Miller joined the family company in 1963. Douglas Miller took over from his uncle as Managing Director and realised that urgent change was required and set about the huge task of refinancing and reenergising the business. The Jenners business had a significant property portfolio across Edinburgh which he re-structured to invest into the Jenners building on Princes Street.

Douglas Miller also played an active role within the Edinburgh business community. Whilst Chairman of the Royal Warrant Holders Association he hosted a visit to Jenners by The Queen which coincided with the 150th Anniversary of the Jenners business.

He was President of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Treasurer to the Royal Company of Archers and a non-executive Director on a number of Investment Trusts in Edinburgh.

Douglas Miller was born on 11th February 1937 in Bridge of Allan. From prep school at St Peter’s Court in Kent he passed into the “Scholar set” at Harrow. After Oxford, where he read Economics, Douglas Miller was commissioned into the 9th Royal Lancers and subsequently served in the Scottish Horse as a Territorial Army officer. His determination to enjoy all aspects of life was evident in a lifelong interest in fishing, shooting, farming, gardening, and conservation.

After the sale of Jenners in 2005 Douglas Miller retired and turned to his love of field sports and observing an everincreasing number of horses appearing at the stables of the family home in Midlothian.

He is survived by his wife, Judy, his three sons Andrew, Robbie and Edward, his daughter, Emma and numerous grandchildren.

STEWART PERRIN (Friend of Fettes) Stewart Perrin passed away in March 2022.

He was an accidental almost honorary OF and staunch supporter of Cricket at Fettes for decades. We say ‘accidental’ as Stewart came to Edinburgh to watch a men’s rugby match at Edinburgh Accies, but when it was cancelled because of the state of the pitch, he made his way up to Fettes in case there was anything on here. By chance there was a 1st XV game, and Stewart stuck loyally to Fettes ever since.

The following was written by Bruce Russell (Staff 1997–present):

Stewart was the most wonderful, kind and supportive gentleman, the most delightful man, very knowledgeable about sport, but never opinionated or critical, just very supportive of the boys, (and the staff). He was also much loved by many cricket-watching parents over the years.