The Shearwood Pavilion

It was a wonderful crisp autumn day for our second attempt to open the Shearwood Pavilion. We were thwarted six months ago by the prevailing COVID-19 situation, so this time, in early November, it was an even more poignant occasion.

The sun shone over the glorious sports fields, the gathered crowd of OLs, parents, staff and pupils assembled in and around the beautifully renovated building, and there was an exciting spectacle on the pitch between the College 1st X1 and the OL 1st X1.

Nigel Bennett, Olds 1972–1977 and Chairman of The OL Club, spoke emotionally about Ken Shearwood and his legacy to the College and to many OLs.

Vanessa Shearwood, in front of the Pavilion wall, decorated in Ken’s memory.

Nigel commented: ‘He is one of the great figures in Lancing’s history; that a building here, at the school he loved and served so well, will become a permanent memorial to him, is richly deserved.’

Head Master Dominic Oliver echoed Nigel’s words: ‘The importance of Ken’s influence is extraordinary and lives on today in all our Shearwood Scholars.’ Glasses were raised to Ken and to the future of Lancing Sport. A Pie & Mash truck was on hand to satisfy the appetites of guests and players.