Old Lawrentian News 2012-2013 by Kerry Brown

Old Lawrentian News 2012 2013

OL COMMITTEE & CONTACTS

James Barden President Elect jamesb@ rextrek.com 01732 886355

Nick Marchant Vice President Elect ngmarchant@ aol.com 07803 610075

Chris Throndsen Vice President 74 Park Avenue Broadstairs Kent CT10 2EZ

John Isaac Honorary Treasurer bjwisaac@ btinternet.com

Nick Jones Honorary Secretary nosj@slcuk. com

Kerry Brown, Alumni Manager kerry@olsociety co.uk olsociety@slcuk. com 01843 572932

John Yonge OL Cricket & Poets Society johnyonge1967@ hotmail.co.uk

Andrew Brown Archivist aandr@another. com

Nick Lyons Prayer Fellowship ntlyons@bt internet.com

Mike Davison Hon. Secretary, OL Rifle Club mikej.davison@bt internet.com

Rodney Wilkening OL Tennis & Squash rbw@slcuk.com

Tim Dodd Hon. Secretary OL Golf Society tmhdodd@me. com

Alfredo Furmanek OL Rugby Liaison alfredofurmanek @gmail.com

Ann Brockbank Australian OL Branch Liaison annbrockbank@ gmail.com

Belinda Piper Australian OL Branch Liaison belindapiper@ yahoo.com

Carol Chapman carolchapman@ barnesmarsland. co.uk

Alistair Mitchelhill alistair.mitchelhill @virgin.net

Marie Winter mariewinter49@ hotmail.com

Timothy Wagland timothywagland@ hotmail.com

Dr Ellis Gill ebg@slcuk.com

Jamie Clifford jamie.clifford. kent@ecb.co.uk

Tom Moulton tm@slcuk.com

Mark Single singlem@ashford school.co.uk

OL Society, St Lawrence College, College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

OLD LAWRENTIAN CALENDAR 2013 Thursday, 7th March 7.00pm - Science and Engineering Lecture with Polar Explorer: Felicity Aston (Theatre, £5)

of Theatre & Senior School Musical ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ (limited availability, strictly ticketed event. Book ASAP at boxoffice@slcuk.com)

Saturday 23rd March 2013 OL Day, AGM & Theatre Performance 12:30pm - Pre-lunch drinks & welcome in Entrance Hall followed by lunch 1:45pm - OL Shooting, optional tour of the College 2:00pm - OL Boys Hockey, Netball, Squash 4:30pm - Hot Buffet in Library 5:15pm - 6:00pm - AGM in Library followed by Drinks 7:30pm - Opening Ceremony

Proposed 4th May ‘Soiree’ Postponed until 2014 - due to extended exam dates Saturday, 8th June - OL Day 9:30am - 11:30am - OL Careers Showcase with Senior School 11am- 1pm - Junior School ‘Traditional’ Fete, all welcome 12:00pm onwards - Vintage/ Prestige Car Festival 12:30pm - Buffet Lunch for OLs on the green 1:30pm - Cricket / tours /

Car Festival 2:15pm - Tennis, Badminton 4:30pm - Prizes, Sports Results, OL BBQ Saturday, 7th September OL Rugby & Girls Hockey Saturday, 2nd November OL Annual Dinner 2013 Venue: SLC Champagne Reception, Dinner, Guest Speaker, Post-dinner drinks in Library. Sunday, 10th November Remembrance Day Service Sunday, 8th December OLs and Friends, College Carol Service

OL DAY, AGM & THEATRE OPENING March 23rd, 2013 - limited tickets available! his year's March OL day is packed full, and we would really love you to join us. Commencing at 12:15pm there will be pre-lunch drinks, lunch, tours and the afternoon sports of netball, hockey, shooting and squash. The AGM and a lovely post-matches tea and drinks will be served in the Library at approximately 5:15pm followed by (if you book your ticket) a great seat in the splendid new theatre for the opening

ceremony and a performance of ‘The Little Shop of Horrors’ at 7:15pm. Tickets are extremely limited and immediate booking is advised. Enquiries at boxoffice@slcuk.com Please let us know asap if you wish to join the teams on any of our OL Days (via sports liaisons or OL secretary). Please book in even if not playing sport so we can ensure we cater sufficiently for you all, and pull out some lovely archives relevant to you!

AGM NOTICE - 23RD MARCH 2013 otice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Old Lawrentian Society will be held at 5.15pm in the library at St Lawrence College, Ramsgate. Agenda: 1. Attendance and apologies for absence. 2. Minutes of the AGM 24th March 2012 3. Matters arising 4. To receive the President’s report for the year since the last AGM 5. Treasurer's Report and

Adoption of Accounts for the year to 31st August 2012 6. To elect the officers and committee for the ensuing year: a) James Barden (Grange 1984) to be elected as the new President. b) Nick Marchant (Tower 1978) to be elected as a Vice President. c) The following OFFICERS have been nominated for reelection (under Rule 11) as follows: Vice President - Chris Throndsen (1953), Honorary Treasurer - John Isaac (1955),

Honorary Secretary - Nick Jones (Grange 1976), Alumni Manager - Kerry Brown. d) Election of the Committee: To elect up to 12 members on the committee with new nominations as follows: Alistair Mitchelhill (Grange 1973), Tim Wagland (Newlands 1981), John Yonge (Newlands 1985) e) The following retire by rotation but are up for reelection: Tom Moulton, Marie Winter and Mark Single. 7. Any other business. 8. Date of next meeting.

t is with great sadness I have to advise that the President Elect, Geoffrey Philpott (Newlands ‘56), died of a heart attack in June 2012. Geoffrey was a lovely man and we have been deprived of someone who would have been an excellent President. His funeral was held in the College chapel and was attended by over 450 people. The service was conducted by The Rt Revd Bishop of Dover, Trevor Willmott. It was a very emotional occasion as Geoffrey was much loved by many people. The wake afterwards was held on the chapel green and the College undoubtedly gave Geoffrey a very special send off. Amongst other OLs, we also lost John Vernon (Lodge 1976) after a brave fight with Cancer. John was Head of School in 1976 and was one of the brightest OLs that the College has ever produced. So 2012 has been a very sad one, but also memorable in many other respects. I am delighted to announce James Barden (Grange ‘84), once elected, will take over as our President at the AGM in March. For years, James has been an enthusiastic member on the OL committee and I am confident he will be an excellent President ably supported by a strong committee. The society is in fine fettle and we now have 2,997 registered members, including 1600 email addresses, 274 OLs registered on Linkedin as ‘Old Lawrentian Society Group’ and 240 OLs registered on Facebook. We also have a growing number of events and reunions which the OL secretary, Kerry Brown, works very hard to organise. I cannot stress how important it is for us to have

Nick Marchant with Geoff Philpott at OL Day your most up to date email address. Please advise this to kerry@olsociety.co.uk In December, we said goodbye to the Headmaster, Revd. Mark Aitken, who left to take up the Royal appointment as the new Master of the Royal Foundation of St Katharine which operates a retreat and conference centre in London. Mark has done an awful lot to transform the College over the past eight years; he has also been a huge supporter of the OL Society. We will miss both Mark and Kim but wish them well in the next stage of their life. The new Headmaster, or Principal as he will be called, is Antony Spencer. Antony was previously the Deputy Head at Clifton College in Bristol and comes with his wife, Suzanne, and four children. He is a graduate of Oxford and a very keen Hockey player. The Governing Body is very excited about this appointment because Antony’s energy and enthusiasm should take the College to the next level over the coming years. The June OL day was a great success and we were very grateful to a number of OLs

who helped at the careers event for the 6th form leavers; also to those OLs who travelled from all over the country for the first OL Vintage and classic car event. Both these events were a great success and we hope to hold them every year on the summer OL day. Please get in touch with Kerry Brown if you wish to attend on June 8th. The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the OL Dinner at The Tower of London. We are incredibly grateful to Lord Dannatt (Tower ‘69) for hosting such a wonderful evening which was attended by 240 OLs and guests plus 180 on the waiting list! This dinner was originally scheduled at the College on November 3rd, however, when the charity Help for Heroes cancelled their event at The Tower, Lord Dannatt kindly offered this slot to the OL Society, which we jumped at. It was an amazing evening with a private viewing of the Crown Jewels, a champagne reception and a sumptuous dinner in the armouries. The Bishop of Dover made a wonderful speech with his central theme being friendship, which was most appropriate. There was then the ancient Ceremony of The Keys for those hardy souls who were happy to leave the comfort of the Armouries. We owe a great debt of gratitude to Lord Dannatt, as well as to the OL secretary, Kerry Brown, for organising such a wonderful, magical evening. See more on pages 16,17 and 18. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as President. I do hope you will support James Barden, your new President Elect, by attending future OL events. Nick Marchant, OL President 3

HEADMASTER’S FAREWELL wanted to begin my final message by saying how much I have enjoyed being headmaster of the College and all my contact with OLs. My final event was the wonderful Dinner at the Tower of London. The College was hugely grateful to Lord Dannatt for making the event possible and for being such a generous host during the evening itself. We were also lucky to be able to hear the Rt Revd Trevor Willmott, the Bishop of Dover speaking about the importance of friendship. I will certainly treasure the salver that the OLs presented me with during the evening. The start of the academic term was very exciting. The new Theatre was up and running; the girls moved into their new boarding house and most important of all, the current Lawrentians are full of life. It was good to see so many of them reappear at the start of term with smiles on their faces and obvious delight at being back. Our annual tea party on the Chapel Green saw nearly ninety new pupils and their families being welcomed into the school. There were no spare places in boys’ boarding and the new Bellerby is proving to be so popular that girls’ boarding is nearly full for September 2013. Our new buildings are so exciting. The multi-purpose theatre space has a wonderful feel. Careful management of our finances and support from OLs has meant that we have been able to complete the light and sound installations ahead of schedule. We have transferred the name ‘Taylor Hall’ to the new building. A very competitive House Singing competition was the first big event to be held there.

Reverend Mark Aitken with the Bishop of London at his installation service as Master of the Royal Foundation of St Katherine This was fitting as it is the only event in which every student takes part. An outstanding Sixth Form production of ‘One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ showcased the exceptional acting talent in College. The newly created Bellerby, inside the old Taylor Hall, has been a masterpiece of creative design making use of much dead space. The girls are delighted with their new rooms and relaxation areas. Inspectors graded the College academically ‘excellent’ last year and our 2012 A-Level results enabled leavers to launch into the next phase of their lives, with the majority going to their university of choice, including some of the top universities in the country. The number of GCSE A* grades was most encouraging. We had 88 A* grades in all, which was 15.5% of the total passes. This figure is rising year-on-year, as is the number of A* and A grades which this year was 38.5%. This enhanced performance does not happen by accident. It is partly a result of some very good teaching which has to be

supported by the hard work of the students as well. As I come to the end of my time in College and move on to become the Master of the Royal Foundation of St Katharine in Limehouse, I look back with my time spent with OLs with real affection. I have enjoyed the company of so many OLs. I think my gratitude to the OLs and my sense of just what decent people they are is best summed up in a story about my son, Reuben. He never went to the College but moved with us at eighteen, having just left the sixth form at my previous school. He has many OLs amongst his friends. They were so welcoming to him when we arrived that I am sure he will have created friends for life from amongst that community. I believe the links between the College and the OLs have been strengthened over my time as Headmaster and I hope they will go from strength to strength in the coming years. Nick Marchant and his committee have made a real difference and I would like to record my thanks to them as I come to leave. I have left ideas for the further development of their work. There will be permanent areas to display OL memorabilia created by the start of next term. A timeline of significant events in the life of the College is also in production to run around the walls of the corridor outside the Dining Room. I have also left plans for an extensive OL room in the heart of the College which I hope in time to return to see completed. I feel I am leaving the College at a very optimistic time and am confident that the College itself and the OL Society will have very bright futures. Reverend Mark Aitken

COLLEGE WELCOMES NEW PRINCIPAL t Lawrence College is delighted to announce Antony Spencer as the new Principal of St Lawrence College. His appointment follows the departure of Reverend Mark Aitken who, after eight years at the helm, and following an outstanding ISI inspection, decided it was time for a new challenge. Mr Spencer, 41, will join the College in April 2013. He is currently Academic Deputy Head at Clifton College in Bristol which, like St Lawrence College, is a co-educational day and boarding school for 318 year olds with a healthy mix of UK and international pupils. Mr Spencer met his wife, Suzanne (also a teacher), at Oxford where he studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics. However, unlike many of his Oxford contemporaries, the world of politics was not his goal and, having turned down an offer at Sandhurst, he qualified as a Chartered Accountant at Ernst and Young. He believes this business background brings an added insight to the role of Principal. So why teaching? “The desire for teaching was always there”, he said, “reinforced after a spell of voluntary teaching at my former boys’ grammar school in Derbyshire.” As well as teaching Economics and Business Studies, Mr Spencer is also a keen hockey player, coach and umpire. The couple’s four children;

Above, new Principal, Antony Spencer and family; below a Acting Principal Mike Bolton Ben, 14, Kathryn, 13, Joseph, 12 and Daniel, 8, will all be joining St Lawrence. “Our first impressions of the school are very positive – it has great facilities and a unique ethos with a close community,” he said. Mr Spencer says that he is looking forward to the challenge of leading a very good school and helping the school to make an impact on the local area. His focus for his first term will be getting to know the school and the pupils, with an emphasis on “listening”. “I’d agree wholeheartedly with the Inspectors that St Lawrence College is an excellent school, but it also has enormous

potential for the future.” Mike Bolton, pictured below, has been appointed as Acting Principal until Mr Spencer’s arrival in April. Previously an Acting Head at Sevenoaks School, Mr Bolton has an MBE for services to education. “It’s a privilege to stand in at such an exciting time for the school,” he said. And what will his focus be for this term? “To work with staff to ensure everything is in place for the new Principal.”

It’s an exciting time to study at St Lawrence College. Our results and facilities are first class. Why not take advantage of the 10% boarding discount available to children and grandchildren of Old Lawrentians? 5

THE CHAPLAIN’S THOUGHTS ne of the many questions that Old Lawrentians ask me is, ‘is it still the same?’ They are of course referring to the ethos of the school. My reply is always ‘yes’ and I qualify this by hoping that what I am experiencing now as Chaplain is the same, or at least similar to what they have experienced as pupils. When talking about the ethos of an institution we refer to the feel and moral atmosphere of a place. This is hard to quantify in concrete ways, however, there are important factors that make St Lawrence College (SLC) a unique place to work, study and simply experience. First and foremost the ethos of SLC is shaped and sustained by the Christian teaching that has underpinned it since its beginnings in 1879. These values have been taught from an evangelical perspective, rooted in scripture and prayer both explicitly and implicitly. The College is part of the Church of England, which as we know has a tradition of being a broad church; therefore it is useful to attempt to define what the evangelical tradition of SLC is within these parameters. The evangelical tradition stands on four convictions. Firstly, revelation, that God communicates via scripture with authority shaping our faith and conduct. Its interpretation is very much dependent on the guidance of the Holy Spirit working within a community. With this in mind, prayerful consideration of scripture informs the essence of the community, whilst listening to the needs of the community; the result creates an approach to the gospel that brings the Word alive amongst the people of the College. Secondly, creation, the recognition that the world is

God’s and therefore our obligation is to respect the natural world because there is a purpose to the environment that we share over and above our material needs. Thirdly, incarnation, Christ entered the world to be at one with us; students are taught to take the trouble to see with other people’s eyes, to enter their world, to be alongside them, to replace the ego with service. Fourth, redemption, Christ entered the world to reconcile us to God, students are given the opportunity to understand this idea and embrace the gospel for themselves, they are also encouraged to practice forgiveness and reconciliation within the context of their own relationships. How does this work in practice? Students come to SLC knowing that attendance in Chapel is compulsory. Many students who come to the College are either of no faith, or they are of another faith and find this requirement daunting. My job as Chaplain is to present the Gospel in a way that does not threaten them as individuals; however, they should still be challenged as individuals, both on issues of morality and ethics.

The message that they hear can be accessed at different levels, thus giving the student the opportunity to connect ‘the issue’ with the Christian message as and when they are ready. The students tend to find this approach informative and it is always reassuring to learn that what they have heard in Chapel is sometimes taken into the classroom for further debate and discussion. Whilst students may have different moral and ethical values there is respect for the values that are given in Chapel and there is also respect for the values that are held by others, and this is where we arrive at the core of the ethos at SLC. Despite our differences, whether they are social, racial, or professional, we are one community. As one community we recognise the function of the individual and what that person may stand for, however, for the time we are at SLC we hold back from pursuing our own needs and we accept the values of the community as a whole. These values are mutual respect and equality within the parameters of responsibility, politeness, and understanding. As I have already mentioned, these values are informed by a Christian framework. Whilst this may sound a utopian situation, it does work and it enables the individual to put into play the best characteristics of their own personalities, religious beliefs and moral outlook. As you can see the ethos of St Lawrence College is not entirely straightforward. It is a close knit community and it is by no means perfect. However, it is a great place to work and study and is passionately loved by those who are (and were) part of it. Reverend Peter Russell

ONCE IN A LIFETIME y wife Olive and I have been together for forty years and throughout that time at the top of our ‘bucket list’ had been a trip along the ‘Silk Route’, closely followed by The Orient Express. To celebrate the four decades we jumped at the opportunity to visit those places echoing with the smells and images of camels and caravans, mosques and Madrassas. Joining a German group of forty in Frankfurt with thirty four Norwegians and six English speaking (two Danes, two Dutch, and ourselves), we flew to Turkmenistan and joined a private train to Kazakhstan with stops at Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent in Uzbekistan. Here the former leader had had built, in mainly marble facing, magnificent buildings and some large monuments and structures with himself in gold on top. A crater of about 150 yards in diameter, set alight in 1966, was still burning vigorously and was one of our first breathtaking sights. The land of Tamerlane, Ghenghis Khan, Alexander the Great was stark against the backdrop of desert.

Miles and miles of sand with tufts of scrub made one appreciate the vastness. Kazakhstan is the 4th largest land mass country in the world with oil and gas amongst other resources barely exploited. Due to the ravages of conquerors, weather and time, most historical sites were either buried in the sand or decayed, but what we saw was largely recently reconstructed, madrassas, mosques and mausoleums now looking clean and smart. Those great names of the past like Alexander the Great were in fact ruthless. Exercising power and fear. Were they really Great? How about Stalin, Hitler, Pol Pot etc in our recent century? Seven hundred years ago with no phones, internet, and aircraft, but camels and distance to contend with, a preemptive strike would ensure the initiative was maintained, and by killing all and destroying everything, a surprise counter attack was not possible. ur trip was a wonderful reminder of the flesh and bricks that have contributed to history. John Isaac, Tower ‘55

OL PRAYER FELLOWSHIP t is humbling to read the news of so many OLs who value the Christian education they received at St Lawrence College and are now leading that Christian life and showing the love of Christ in what they do. Sometimes the seed takes a while to germinate. One OL, Simon Dixon left, (Deacon ‘81), wrote to me of the conversion he had at a Billy Graham crusade in 1989 that “made sense of all those chapel service sermons”. Simon lives in Washington DC and is the Director of Worship Music at the Falls Church (no mean task with a congregation of 4000+) and has recently been ‘on tour’ in the UK. Another OL, Phil Jolley (Lodge ‘65) wrote of the “spirituality of the school (which is) staggeringly with me always”. Phil still works in the European Christian Mission (ECM). Phil and Martina’s newsletter Jolleys’ Jottings - describes a busy life which I suspect barely scratches the surface of the work they actually do! I was very pleased to hear from John Warlow, right, (Tower

‘73). Now in Australia, he is a psychiatrist and has developed a framework for understanding and helping people. I would recommend his website (www.christianwholeness.com). It is amazing to hear the use this aid is put to across the world, but particularly in mainland China. Tabitha Webb (née Watling, Laing ‘98) remembers the missions at the school, and I was pleased to hear her sing at the Albert Hall. It was wonderful to meet so many of you at the Tower of London in December. Bernie Bell (Lodge ‘77) described the lives of the children of missionaries who spent much of the year away from their parents (I remember him as my House Captain!) and many others who were pupils across the generations. Your news and updates are invaluable. Your prayers for the School, the Chaplain and the work of staff in supporting the current students, are incredibly important and I would suggest, a responsibility for us all. It has also been a privilege to pray for some of you going through more difficult times. If you have news let me know; if you have need of prayer then do let me know, but perhaps make it clear whether you are happy for me to share that by email - when in doubt I do not! Nick Lyons (Lodge ‘82), Editor, Prayer Fellowship

AUSTRALIAN REUNION

From left standing: Chris and Anne Baillie,Tim & Sylvia Nightingale, Noel Symonds,Val Barrow, John Barrow, Mike Le Pelley,Wayne & Kit Chin, Elizabeth Symonds,Tim Hayward, Geoff Sexton, Antony Bowesman, Frank and Sherrie Armstrong, Chris Hayward, Ann Brockbank,Tony Gilbert, Andy Anderson, John Denton. Seated: Kathryn Piper, Lachlan, Max, Belinda Piper n Sunday November 18th, 2012 we met in the Highway Bar at the Greengate Hotel, one of Australia’s oldest watering holes on Sydney’s Northshore. This year we also donned name badges revealing our school nicknames - well, those suitable for relatively polite company, anyway! We had a fantastic turnout, with around 25 OLs, friends and family. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and catch up with old friends, including Tony Gilbert, the Haywards, the Nightingales and the Baillies. The Down Under Chapter has been meeting for 19 years, with the inaugural reunion consisting of Geoff Sexton, Paul Priday, Tony Gilbert and Noel Symonds. John and Val Barrow recounted the tale of one of the early get togethers, which was held on a boat. Paul ‘Commander Dixon’ took charge ensuring the vessel was seaworthy, even if the crew were not! We all missed Paul and Connie Dixon at the reunion, and were saddened to hear of Paul’s passing in December - he and his larger than life character will be missed by all.

Frank Armstrong, left, and John “Dentman” Denton, right, were resplendent in their College blazers, impressing all with their svelte figures. Ann “Brockers” Brockbank, recently back from a trip to H o n g Kong, impressed us all with news of her recent and rather daring abseil down Sydney’s AMP building for charity. Antony “Gos” Bowesman was able to drop in to catch up with everyone before zipping into town to catch Coldplay on their Australian tour. Antony took part in the Oxfam Trailwalker 2012. This is a very gruelling 100km charity walk which he and his team finished in under 18 hours. The photo

shows Antony on the right still looking very fresh after the first 33 kms! It was lovely to see Wayne and Kit Chin again, and our “Fair Dinkum” section doubled this year with the addition of a second genuine Australian, Kathryn “KP” Piper, who attended with her husband Mike. Completing the Aussie pairing was Belinda “Peg Doll” Piper, accompanied by her husband Lachlan and the youngest member of the group, their son Max. Apologies were received from Julian and Angela Boulnois, Greg Carson, Laura Pheils, as well as Paul and Margot Priday, who were organising their daughter Polly’s wedding. All in all a truly good time was had by all, and we’re all looking forward to meeting again in October or November 2013. More details can be obtained from Ann at annbrockbank @gmail.com or Belinda at belindapiper@yahoo.com later in the year. All are welcome to attend. 9

DEACON HOUSE MEMORIES 1972-1983 eacon House only existed for 11 years and was a sort of graph of the number of day boys in the College. In 1972 the number of day boys had risen to the point where there were too many for Newlands to house. At the same time the number of day boys in Cameron was growing. The decision was therefore taken to create a new house, Deacon, to be named after John Deacon, President of the Council from 1895 to 1901 and a very generous benefactor of the school. Deacon would take 2nd formers from Cameron and 3rd formers, who would have joined Newlands. The boys would then pass on to Newlands when they reached the 4th form. Of course this meant that Deacon House was not ‘normal’ being neither junior nor senior. Its members joined Cameron or Newlands for inter-house competitions with a few exceptions; Deacon, in its own right, won the 1973 Day Cup for Empire Test Shooting and in 1974 entered a play in the Drama Competition. Accommodation was ‘The Shack’, the wooden building parallel to the Masters’ Lawn, previously occupied by Newlands, who now moved into the main building. Gordon Lloyd was Housemaster, with Mike Gill as his House Tutor, and in the first year there were 30 boys in the house, 17 3rd formers and 13 2nd formers. In addition, Newlands lent the house three senior boys to act as prefects. Over the next four years the numbers remained in the 30s, but in 1975, as day boy numbers continued to increase, there was no intake of 2nd formers into Deacon. They now remained in Cameron, while 9 boys who would in earlier years have moved on to Newlands as 4th formers, remained in Deacon. The house was slowly becoming normal. Mike Gill left the school and was replaced by John Harper as House Tutor. For a short period Robin Overton was also associated with the house. Two years later, in 1977 the house, although still with only 38 members, began to retain boys for the whole of their career. Whether they stayed in Deacon into the 5th and 6th forms was their choice, and those who did were not

numerous since the old building had very limited study space suitable for senior boys. In 1978 Deacon moved into the main building, on the ground floor, with proper study accommodation for its senior boys. In 1980 the number in the house was at the same level as all other houses. Sadly at that moment the number of day boys began to decline. In 1981 there were only 11 boys in Deacon and in 1983 the number of day boys was such that, once again, a single house was sufficient and Deacon House 1972-1973 Deacon came to an end. Over 11 years, 91 boys had begun their SLC career in Deacon before moving on to Newlands; 71 had spent their full SLC career in Deacon and there were 37 survivors now moving into Newlands, a total of 199 (what a pity we could not reach the double century!). During its brief existence Deacon contributed fully in every aspect of school life. Simon Perkins held the office of School Captain and Stuart Lloyd was deputy; we provided a captain of hockey (Stuart Cook) and captain of cricket (Philip Hobcraft). We won our share of sporting trophies, most often in minority activities, particularly shooting, sailing, golf, cross country running and general knowledge. In major sports cricket was our best, with two wins at junior level and a grand finale by winning the senior cricket three days before we ceased to exist! Deacon was a happy and vibrant house. Who can forget the Christmas parties, catered for by the wives of the Housemaster and House Tutor and entertained wonderfully by the musicians and comically by the Housemaster and prefects? Who can forget the smell of toast (probably half-burnt) emanating from the house kitchen in the old shack? What about the lively activity around the table tennis table or the snooker table? There are many who felt that day boys had the best of both worlds - a full life with all the social and sporting opportunities which a school such as SLC can provide but being able to sleep in their own beds at night. Deacon had its own unique character; what a pity it came to so premature an end. Gordon Lloyd, first, last and only Housemaster of Deacon

OL OLYMPIANS t Lawrence College boasts five Olympians in total - including two gold and one silver medalist. The most familiar Olympian is perhaps A.C.B. Bellerby, who in 1908 performed below his best to finish 16th in the Long Jump and 20th in the High Jump. C.H. Williams, finished 11th in the same long jump event. He Bellerby, pictured in the front left the College in 1906 and went row in the centre, with his to Emmanuel, Cambridge before Dark Blue team-mates being ordained. Williams never won the Open and made a major contribution Long Jump while at school but to St Lawrence Hockey in the he won the 100 yards in 1905 1920s, coaching the 1st XI. and 1906. In 1906 he finished He left in 1926 to become 2nd in the Public Schools Headmaster of King Edward’s School, Witley. Sports in both these events. He won his colours for 2nd XI The only OL (or Secobian) to Hockey and was 4th in the Gym win a silver medal in 1908 was C.F. Power, who played for Competition in 1906. At Cambridge he won his full Ireland at Hockey. Power left Blue in the Long Jump in 1908. the College in 1896, before the In 1914 he left England for official start of Hockey in 1901. He entered the College in Nigeria as a missionary. Bellerby, the son of a Margate 1889 and represented the 1st music master, not only won the XI Football when he was only Victor Ludorum for his jumping, 14. By the time he was 16 he hurdles and shot in 1907 but had won Football and Cricket also his 1st Colours in Football Colours and was in the in 1906 and in Hockey in 1907. Gymnastics VIII. In 1896 he He was also in the Shooting secured the Challenge Cup in VIII for three years and was Athletics by winning the High awarded his 2nd XI Cricket Jump, 100 Yards and the ¼ Mile. By July 1898 he had Colours in 1907. At Cambridge he gained his completed a course in brewing Athletics Blue, winning the High and from 1902 started to Jump against Oxford in four represent Yorkshire at Hockey. successive years. He was E.G.D. Wright was also a awarded his Blue for Hockey in football star. After winning his 1910 and 1911 and played in Football Blue for Cambridge in three successive years (1904several International Trials. He returned to the College in 06), he went on to play for 1911 as Games Master, later England and captained Hull becoming Housemaster of the City for seven years. Light Red House. In 1917, he His Gold Medal came in the departed to serve as an Army 1912 Olympics as part of the Chaplain but was invalided Great Britain Football team at home. In 1919 he returned as Stockholm. After his Science Chaplain and Games Master degree at Cambridge he won

the Marcheson medal for Geology at Imperial College before embarking on a career in mining in South Africa. Wright first played for the 1st XI Cricket in 1899 when only 14 and was awarded his 1st XI Football Colours that year. He was a regular member of both Football and Cricket 1st XI for four years and was part of the first Hockey XI in 1901 and captained the 1903 team. In 1901 he won the Gymnastics Competition and in 1903 in Athletics won the Hurdles, Long Jump and Shot. H.K. Cassels won a Gold medal for Hockey with the Great Britain team in 1920. He was the son of the first Bishop of West China, and was School Captain in his final term. He played for the 1st XI Cricket before his 15th birthday. In 1914 he won his 1st XI Colours for Cricket (topping the bowling averages) and in the next two terms achieved the same in both Football and Hockey. Following the move to Chester in 1916 he captained the Football team, which won all its matches. He flourished in his final Cricket season achieving a batting average of 80.7. Cassels left Chester in April 1917 to join the Royal Flying Corps: a year later he was a prisoner of war. Following his repatriation he returned to coach the 1st XI Cricket for a term. At Cambridge (Queen’s) he represented the University at Football and then won his first (of two) Hockey Blue in 1920. Teaching took Cassels to China and Australia. After the Second World War he returned to the UK as a Housemaster at Millfield. Andrew Brown, OL Archivist

This is a heavily edited version of Andrew Brown’s very informative piece. Please go to the OL Website - www.olsociety.com - for full story & pictures. 11

OL UPDATES DR THOMAS GILL r Tom Gill, (Manor Grange ‘98), Assistant Director of International Programs at Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, Pennsylvania, USA, has been recognised for his outstanding efforts at inspiring students to explore international agriculture. Tom received the 2012 Young Professional Award from the Association for International Agriculture and Rural Development. The organisation bestows the honour annually to recognise early career contributions to achieving its goals and objectives. Tom joined Penn State College three years ago as a special assistant to help develop Africa programs in the college’s Office of International Programs. Since then he has taught a variety of undergraduate international agricultural development courses and currently serves as the coordinator for Penn State’s International Agriculture undergraduate minor. “Dr. Gill’s strong record and reputation for excellence is highlighted by his commitment to international agriculture and rural development, his personal integrity, his overall productivity and his outstanding scholarship,” said Mark Brennan, Penn State associate professor of community and leadership development. Tom revised and currently teaches INTAG 100, Introduction to International Agriculture, a core course for the International Agriculture minor. He also co-created and currently co-teaches two new courses in international agriculture, including a senior seminar course with a travel component to Washington, D.C., allowing students to meet with officials at the U.S. Agency for International Development, the World Bank and other groups engaged in international and rural development. Tom also created and launched the Ag2Africa program, a College of Agricultural Sciences initiative to provide increased opportunities for faculty, extension staff and students to engage with partners in Africa. “Dr. Gill was also a key member of the team that formulated a four-day workshop on global food security for Fulbright students from around the world, which helped kick off the Year of Food Security at Penn State,” explained Deanna Behring, Director of International Programs in the College of Agricultural Sciences. “He is a great teacher who is highly dedicated to his field and extremely knowledgeable about international agriculture. I expect him to have an

incredible influence on current and future international agriculture and development.” Before Penn State, Tom was completing a doctoral degree in Interdisciplinary Ecology from the University of Florida, during which time he worked with smallholder farmers in Kenya with the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee. He received his master’s degree in Tropical Agricultural Development from Reading University, and his bachelor’s degree in Geography from Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge.

ERIC HOLDAWAY B.E.M. Eric with Lady Cass

OL UPDATES before or after the service. John Sharples was always coming up with ideas, I remember. If they were lyrical - like ‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’ it was easy to dress it up as a Bach Chorale Prelude. I did the same with ‘A Fistful Of Dollars’ after seeing it in the cinema in Ramsgate the previous afternoon! I can also remember doing a couple of Bond themes like ‘Goldfinger’ and ‘Diamonds Are For Ever’, not forgetting the plethora of Beatles tunes like ‘Yesterday’ and ‘Sgt Pepper’ - plus all the pieces I was supposed to practice for my organ exams! Ironically, I still do that sort of thing now! The SLC factor has never disappeared!” Most recently, Eric attended the Tower of London dinner proudly wearing a new and much deserved honour - the British Empire Medal. Eric became a recipient of the ‘B.E.M’ in recognition of his commitment and service to his local community. At one point, he was involved with no less than 23 charitable and voluntary organisations! He has organised the ‘gang show’ (national guides and scouts community entertainment) for the past 20 years, been involved with the setting up and running of the village fair trade coffee shop, supporting local trade and raising money for both local causes and Dabaso, Kenya (twinned with Eric’s town Weston). Eric was stunned by a surprise party his wife and friends had organised in secret to celebrate his award. One hundred and thirty friends and colleagues, who had become part of Eric’s life during 40 years in the Hutton area, attended.

JOHN MURPHY orty four years after leaving the College, Eric Holdaway (Courtenay ‘67) returned for the 2011 Old Lawrentian dinner with fellow Courtenay boy Billy Hollis. Since then he has been a very welcome face at a number of OL events including the vintage car display, entering two magnificent Swallows. He also had the chance to play the chapel organ. June OL Day attendees were entertained in the Chapel with some beautiful pieces, often accompanied on the flute by wife Gill. Whilst a pupil at SLC, Eric (a talented musician and organist even then), was charged with playing the organ during chapel services. Eric recalls: “My contemporaries used to put in odd ‘requests’ to see what I would come up with

n the summer of 1968, the boys at SLC used to head off to Manston Air Force Base (as it was then) to watch the filming of the movie ‘The Battle of Britain’. The filming of the aerial ‘dog fights’ were filmed over Ramsgate and SLC

using a Catalina aircraft as a camera platform. The draw at Manston was the fighter aircraft staged out of there. Imagine the excitement of all us boys taking a look at those aircraft at the time. We would bring a packed lunch from the school and spend the afternoon. It was a wonderful time and one of my fondest memories of SLC as in 1969 I left the UK. I attended the University of Victoria in British Columbia, Canada, followed by training to become a pilot and commercial pilot. How I came into the aviation industry was not only due to the Battle of Britain filming at Manston though, but actually through my father’s encouragement. He saw service in WW2 serving as a Midshipman on a Royal Navy ship, HMS Nelson, in the Mediterranean Sea. Following the war he returned to the Royal Canadian Navy and trained to become a fighter pilot, based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, as well as flying off of the Canadian aircraft carrier HMCS Bonaventure. It was his flying experience that intrigued me - I just didn’t want to join the armed services to do it! He went on to command several Canadian warships, and to eventually become a Naval diplomat, hence our enrolment at SLC. In 1976, I started a career with Transport Canada as an Air Traffic Controller. Moving from pilot to Air Traffic Controller is actually a small step, however with a lot more training. My final position (before retiring after 36 years of service) was as a supervisor in Vancouver Terminal Control Unit, in Vancouver, employed by Nav Canada, a private not-for-profit corporation. I still fly, but now for pleasure. Retiring in January 2012, I wouldn’t exactly say that I’m a free man now though, as I am on duty 24/7 these days, as full-time dad. My two little girls (Elizabeth, nearly five and Claire, nearly three) are my bosses! I must say, it’s a lot harder work than actually ‘working’, but far more rewarding. My brother, Brian Vincent Murphy, was also at SLC, also leaving in 1969. He lives in Virginia, USA. He became an electrical engineer, finally ending up as a managing engineer for Nortel. My youngest brother, David, a senior officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force, has also flown (heavy transport aircraft) for the last 30 years. I have made the trek back to SLC several times. I walked the halls, dorms, dining hall and playing fields and it was very interesting seeing photos of my brother and I in the archives. I will return again soon so that my wife and girls can see where I spent a few of my teenage years. John G Murphy, (Grange '66 - '69) murphjog@gmail.com 13

OL UPDATES TABITHA WEBB

abitha Webb, née Watling, (Laing ‘98) had a busy 2012, singing in the ‘Les Misérables’ film (as one of the ‘ladies of the night’), and appearing as Christine in a special production of ‘Phantom of the Opera’ in Paris. She also performed (with a six-month baby bump) at the Royal Albert Hall. It wasn’t easy filming ‘Les Mis’, dressed up as a rather sordid-looking prostitute (complete with syphilitic ‘sores’ made from Rice Krispies!), while having to rush off set every so often with morning sickness. However, she got through the sickness and was rewarded with a beautiful baby boy, Elias in December, please see page 18. Tabitha is now enjoying motherhood and taking a well-earned rest from the West End.

5OTH ANNIVERSARY OF 583 CLUB n 1999 the OL News included an article that started: “At the suggestion of the members, Terence Moore (Tower 1958-63) has written to let readers know about the existence of this Club. It takes its name from the entries in the old ‘School Lists’ which included a three-digit record of the year and term of arrival at SLC and membership comprises the intake into Tower House in the Michaelmas term of 1958. Exactly how the Club was formed is lost in the mists of time but probably went back to illicit conversations in dormitories after ‘lights out’. As, no doubt, with many other years, the 583 Tower intake was a close-knit one and the conversation turned to keeping in touch once everyone had ventured into the big, wide world. What was perhaps unique was that they actually did something about it! Most of the members have met annually since 1964 for a dinner (or lunch) in London. When OL Secretary Kerry Brown contacted Terry Moore to enquire whether the Club was still in existence, he replied: “I am delighted to confirm that the 583 Club is very much extant. Though I boldly stated in 1999 that the first dinner took place in 1964, no-one is quite sure

whether it was 1963 (when the majority of us left the College) or the following year. However, on the basis that it was 1964, our next meeting in November this year will be the 50th, probably a unique achievement in the annals of SLC.” In case any of our contemporaries can still remember us, the members are: - Clive Bennett, Richard Broad, David Cheal, Jeremy Johnson, David Laing, Terry Moore, David Perfect, Tim Prescott, Peter Ross, Max Sinclair and Mike Wallis. David Cheal now lives in Northern Ireland but has been very loyal in flying over for our meetings. Mike Wallis has lived for many years in Brazil but keeps in touch. We met for many years at the old Naval & Military Club (the ‘In & Out’). More recently, we have patronised various London restaurants. Last year, for the first time ever, we met for lunch rather than dinner. This was necessitated by Peter Ross starring (as a dog) in his golf club pantomime! He narrowly avoided ‘black-balling’ but the majority appeared actually to favour lunch and we are planning a repeat this year probably (and inappropriately as none of us have anything to do with agriculture!) at the Farmers’ Club in Whitehall.

OL TOWER OF LONDON n invitation to the Tower of London 500 years ago would probably not have been met with the same degree of excitement as when the invitation to 2012’s OL Dinner dropped into my inbox.

Given that the event was a sell-out within a few days of the invitations going out, I was clearly not alone in eagerly anticipating this occasion. Wrapped up against the chill of a December evening, we approached the spectacularly illuminated Tower and joined a queue of people more smartly dressed than the average tourist. Names checked off the list, we passed through the gate and joined a tour group just starting off. Our friendly Beefeater guide pointed out various places of interest with many a bloody tale to tell about them. Then we came to the Crown Jewels building with its massively thick steel doors, moving walkway and more bling than any of us will see in a lifetime. The crowns with all their sparkling jewels were fabulous, but my favourite has to be the golden punch bowl, which is about the same size as the average garden pond, and its ladle, which would easily dispense the daily government guideline of alcohol units in one go. We then made our way to the White Tower where we had our photo taken in front of Henry VIII’s magnificent suit of armour with its very impressive codpiece! Upstairs provided a

champagne reception where the noise and heat levels gradually increased, where hugs and kisses were exchanged and life stories swapped between sips of champagne. A group photo was taken before we all made our way back downstairs and across the courtyard to the New Armouries for dinner. Lord Dannatt welcomed us all and our guest speaker, the Rt Revd Trevor Willmott, The Bishop of Dover, said grace before we sat down to a delicious meal, alongside which the wine flowed (certainly on our table it did)! A slideshow of school photos played on a loop on large screens, providing entertainment and / or embarrassment. Speeches were made - Nick Marchant’s bidding farewell as he steps down as President of the OL Society, and the Bishop’s extolling the virtues of friendship. An inscribed silver salver from the OL Society, was presented to Revd. Mark Aitken, Headmaster at this, his last OL function before leaving SLC at Christmas. The school song was sung – the words were helpfully printed on the reverse of the ticket as a crib sheet for any who might have forgotten them! After that there was the opportunity to witness the ancient Ceremony of the Keys that has taken place every night for the last 700 years, before a last nightcap back in the Dining Suite. And then, all too soon, the evening was over, and burly Beefeaters were ushering us on our way. More hugs and kisses as farewells were said with promises to meet again soon, before we went our separate ways. Our thanks go to Lord Dannatt for this fantastic venue. It really was a most memorable evening enjoyed by such a variety of OLs spanning 70 years in difference of age - from James Johnston aged 16 (pictured left) to John Collins, aged 86! Alison Hope (now Pailing) Bellerby ‘80 15

OL TOWER OF “It was great to see you all, even if just briefly, a magnificent and splendid do that is going to be difficult to top.” - Chris Dorling

“We had a wonderful and truly memorable evening. It was marvellous to have a private viewing of the Crown Jewels and to see the Ceremony of the Keys at close range.” - Chris and Delia Burley

“A fab evening! Many thanks, such a successful event. Cheers.” - Spud Spalding

“A most enjoyable and interesting evening good company, good food, good location. Many thanks to Kerry for her splendiferous - Malcolm Iliff efforts.” “What an amazing evening.Thanks so much.” - Philip Cook 16

LONDON DINNER “May I just take a brief moment to say a heartfelt thanks ... It was fascinating to take the tour, and the meal was excellent.The ceremony of the keys and the rather out of tune rendering of the last post rounded off a brilliant evening.” - Peter Davies

“Thank you so much for organising an outstanding Dinner every detail was perfect.” - Nicky Collier

“Thanks for such a wonderful evening It was well worth coming all the way from California for.” - Bernard Bell

“A wonderful evening, truly memorable.” - Anne Sedgwick

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

BIRTHS

WEDDINGS

abitha Webb (née Watling, Laing ‘98) and her husband Robbie are pleased to announce the birth of Elias Lawrence Webb on 2nd December 2012 (named in part after the College).

eborah (Dee) Koppang (Laing ‘97) and Dermot O’Leary married on Friday, 14th September 2012. Deborah and Dermot met whilst both working in Television in London. After 10 years together in London, and a proposal in New York (where Deborah was working) last November, they finally decided to tie the knot! The wedding took place in the very quaint and picturesque village of Chiddingstone, Kent, at an intimate ceremony at St. Mary’s Church by Revd. Martin Beaumont and the O’Leary family’s Catholic Priest (who came out of retirement for the day), Monsignor Arthur Barrow. The reception followed at Chiddingstone Castle, which was a fantastic party - bringing together all their British, Irish and Norwegian families.

OLs in attendance were Sasha Martell, Wendy Adams, Emma Murhpy (née Cuthel), Kristina Crutchley and Sarah Grainger. Due to work commitments, they managed a quick ‘minimoon’ to Italy after the wedding, taking their proper honeymoon over the new year, travelling to Bhutan and Cambodia.

ames Perks (Newlands Deacon ‘04) and Keeley Harrison, pictured left, chose the College Chapel for their special day on Saturday, 1st December 2012. James had two best men (both OLs); Tom Perks and Andrew Hodges. James, now a manager for Miles and Barr Estate Agents Thanet, met his bride locally. The wedding itself was sure to be perfect as Keeley owns her own s u c c e s s f u l Wedding Business ‘Bridal Way’ here in Ramsgate. A very short reception was held after the service at the groom’s family home, with the newlyweds having to quickly dash off to make their plane for a honeymoon in Montego Bay, Jamaica. A much larger celebration party was then held at The Pegwell Bay Hotel in late January making for an extra special, lengthy wedding celebration.

r Trevor Clarke’s daughters, Ruth Harrington (J.S. and Laing 1990 - 2004) and Sarah Scrivens (J.S. and Laing 1991 - 2005) both became mums in 2012. Ruth is pictured with daughter, Abigail and Sarah with her twins girls, Miriam and Cerys.

D 18

off Manning (Lodge ‘03) and Eibhlín Morley were married on 24th November 2012 in St Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina, Co Mayo, Ireland. The reception was at Belleek Castle, Ballina. Adam Greves (Manor, ‘03) was the best man with other fellow OLs in attendance.

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Brian Wilkin Gale, 13.01.1939 - 27.09.2012, (Manor 1952 - 1957)

WEDDINGS ristina Crutchley (Laing ‘94) married Scott Appleford in the college chapel on 20th October 2012. The reception was held at the Pavillion in Broadstairs with a honeymoon in the Domincan Republic. “Everyone commented on how the College Chaplain, Revd. Peter Russell thoroughly engaged everyone and how friendly and informal the service was. Huge thanks must go to Tricia Maughan the College’s wedding organiser who was the greatest help,” said Kristina.

rian was a keen shot at school and continued as a regular member of the OL Rifle Club. He could be relied upon to produce good scores and he took a great interest in making new and existing members of the club feel welcome. He had a real interest in hearing of people’s experiences as well as recounting his own. We remember him for so much - not least for his dry sense of humour and quirky observations. Being an accountant, at each OL AGM, he never failed to make some appropriate observations about club finances! Brian was born in Esher, Surrey, in January 1939 and has two younger sisters, Janice and Annabel. The family home had moved to East Grinstead and it was there after leaving school, that Brian joined Richard Plaice, an Accountancy firm, to undertake his ‘Articles’. In 1962 he met Frances, marrying her in 1966. They had two daughters Lucy and Rebecca and four grandchildren: Laurie, Jasmine, Finn, and Ruby to whom Brian is remembered with special love and affinity as a ‘Peter Pan’ grandfather, being really a boy himself, he loved any challenge and adventure. In 1967, they moved to the West Country and Brian joined John Heathcoat, a textile company, as their company secretary. This company was taken over by Coates Patton and Brian was transferred to their Head Office in Bristol in 1971. Brian and Frances moved to Nailsworth in 1973 and then to Kings Stanley, their present home, in 1979. Brian next joined a firm of family bakers in Avonmouth as their Company Secretary/ Accountant and then moved to Danfoss in 1986. He retired from Danfoss in 1999 and looked after a number of private clients, tax returns and various honorary jobs for local charities. As well as shooting with the OLRC, Brian was a keen golfer, fisherman and swimmer. He loved his family and friends, as proved by the numbers packing St George's Church Kingstanley, to standing room only, for his Funeral and Thanksgiving in October 2012. There will always be a smile and a story when recalling Brian Gale. A remarkable man, sorely missed but fondly remembered. Robert Fromow and Vernon Moffett

Photography: Mark Proctor

Paul Dixon, 27.01.1923 - 22.12.2012 Junior School 1933 & Newlands 1938)

OBITUARIES

aul, who passed away in his 90th year, was born in Broadstairs and started at the Junior school in 1933, moving on to the College as a day boy in Newlands House. On leaving the College in 1938 he joined The Union Castle Shipping Co in London. At the outbreak of the 2nd World War Paul tried to enlist in the Royal Navy but was rejected on medical grounds having contracted polio as a young child. However, this did not deter him and he passed his medical for the R.A.F. at the height of the Battle of Britain. Paul recounted that he was simply asked to stand on one leg and so stood on his good leg! He trained in Canada and obtained his pilot’s wings for Catalina flying boats. On returning to the U.K. he was posted to Coastal Command, which subsequently led him into the Fleet Air Arm flying attack fighters. Paul married Jean Hall in 1943 and they had two children, Simon & Sara. (Sara pre-deceased him in the mid ‘80s). At the end of the war Paul was transferred from flying to ground staff and flight training duties. In 1956 Paul and the family moved to HMAS Albatross (Naval Air Station) in Nowra, Australia on an exchange posting. In 1959 the family returned to the U.K. and Paul’s Naval service continued until 1966 when he retired with the prestigious rank of Commander. He and Jean then emigrated to Australia where

he joined the Royal Australian Navy on a fiveyear short service Commission. Finally retiring after 30 years of military service, he settled in Sydney’s eastern suburbs where he and Jean were involved in the real estate industry. In 1982 Paul and Jean moved to their five-acre retirement home on the shores of Wallis Lake at Coomba (near Foster). Following a battle with cancer, Jean passed away in May 1998. With the establishment of the OL Australian N.S.W chapter, Paul made contact and made a concerted effort to travel to the luncheons. In 2001 Paul married Connie Vinning, a long standing family friend and they spent the remaining 12 years together amongst their circle of friends and with Simon. The Australian NSW OL’s Chapter express sympathy to Connie and Simon along with other close family members. The OL gatherings were always enlivened when Paul presented his latest, often racy anecdote. His ‘tall tales’ were always delivered with him wearing his very short college tie which he always wore at the annual reunion. Paul’s friendship and humour was appreciated greatly by all who knew him and he will be sadly missed, but not forgotten.

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS John Arnott Johnson 21.3.1947- 14.06.2012 (Junior School and Tower 1955- 1964) ohn Arnott Johnson, Kent Fruit Farmer and passionate keeper of Clydesdale horses, sadly passed away 14th June 2012. Our sympathy goes to wife Maggee and children Georgina and Thomas and families.

Geoffrey Philpott 03.98.1938-14.06.2012 (Newlands 1946-1956) eoffrey Philpott, beloved father of Joanne, Caroline, Geoffrey and Annabelle, friend of many, and committed supporter of St Lawrence College, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, 14 June 2012. Geoff attended St Lawrence College in both Junior and Senior schools from 1946 to 1956 (Newlands). To have known Geoffrey Philpott was to have known a man humble in himself but overwhelming in generosity and friendship to others.

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS He simply brought people together from a wide range of background and interests and by his own example showed them, showed us, how to find common ground in the solace of others. Be it at the cricket ground, the rugby ground, at St Andrew's church in Reading Street, Geoffrey's table was always open and welcoming of others yet he never sought the head of the table, the place of honour, but preferred the lower place of service. But as we all knew, behind such generosity was a deep pride in family and an equally deep conviction that without faith in Jesus Christ he was, as St Paul writes “a sounding gong or a clanging symbol”. But as in all things Geoffrey’s faith was quiet and unassuming. While Geoffrey’s death robbed the OLs of a fitting President, what he believed in, what he stood for, the way he treated others before he considered himself are surely all marks of what we hope will be found in everyone privileged to become members of the College community. May he rest in peace and rise in glory. Rt Revd Bishop Trevor, Bishop of Dover, at Canterbury.

Dr Michael G Rolfe 12.08.1923-22.05.2012 (Tower 1937 - 1942) idow Rosemary and son Philip are sad to announce that Michael passed away last May.

John Norman Vernon, 04.10.1958 - 07.07.2012 (Lodge 1968 - 1976) or those of us who studied with John Vernon, he was infuriatingly clever. It didn’t matter what the subject was, he was the star pupil. On Speech Day, we clapped and John went up to get the prizes. John didn’t just shine in the classroom. He directed his house play; edited the school and poetry magazine, spoke in debates, got involved in community service, was the senior librarian, head of his house (Lodge), and then head boy. After St Lawrence, John won an Exhibition

Scholarship to St Edmund Hall, Oxford to read English Literature. John could have chosen any career and nearly signed on to go to Law School then applied to teach English in Japan. Law school could easily wait a few years, but this chance to immerse himself in an exotic country in the Far East would not come again. He took it and had a great time. He became fluent in the language - and fell in love with Atsuko Takashima, whom he married. When the English teaching came to an end, John’s next move came as a surprise to some an international banker. Maybe his ease with words had hidden to his friends his brilliance at mathematics. John worked for international banks - both in the UK and Japan (where he operated in Japanese) before moving into the field of teaching bankers. John’s company, ‘Renaissance Training’ was very successful. John could have easily been a published writer on history or literature however the book he did write was ‘The Fundamentals Of Banking’. At St Lawrence and throughout his life John was a voracious reader. Looking back at his teenage years he wrote, ‘Books and the knowledge that gushed from them were my passion.’ He was usually reading about six titles at the same time, and these were not light novels. But though he was certainly bookish and intellectual, John was also very sociable, always ready to go to the pub, usually The Ellington Arms at SLC, or a party. And he enthused over the simple gifts of life: the English spring; his stray tortoise; long walks in the country-side with his brother; visits to cathedrals; Bach and Elgar; proper beer (it had to come from the barrel) and above all he was devoted to family and friends. During his sickness John’s friends and family came to appreciate his character even more. Though he most certainly suffered, there was no wallowing in self pity, but stoicism, good humour, and a factual account of the situation. One tweet said: ‘The diagnosis is Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, the treatment is heavy Chemotherapy.’ There was standing room only at John’s funeral. His daughter, Erica, spoke with great poignancy; his father, Peter with great dignity. Fittingly Peter ended his eulogy for his son with a line from Hamlet, a play John first came to love sitting in Mr Binfield’s VI form set at St Lawrence. ‘Good night sweet prince and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.’ Tom Hawksley

OL DAY MARCH 2012

reat sunshine, great fun and a great turnout - including a girl’s netball team which had been sadly missed for a few years! Old favourite mad scientist AND Deputy Head, Dr Gill, started the festivities welcoming a good and jolly crowd of OLs back to the school with a drinks reception in the Entrance Hall. Lunch followed, then tours to the Tower (and other places). A fine group of shooters celebrating their 50th Anniversary, competed against the school (more on page 25) as did our OL hockey players, squash players and netballers. All played with tremendous spirit and fortitude, and the large amount of spectators were certainly not left wanting for a good afternoon's viewing. A fantastic curry supper had been prepared for everyone but with the weather being more like July; the bar won out for most favoured haunt! The AGM was short and sweet, ending with a touching presentation to our outgoing President Nick Marchant. He had been trying to step down for some time - but having done such a brilliant job all these years, we just wouldn't let him!

The Archives are missing the odd edition of ‘The Lawrentian’ and ‘The Old Lawrentian’. If anyone wishes to donate a copy, please do get in touch. 23

OL DAY - MARCH 2012

OL RIFLE CLUB n 2012 the Club celebrated 50 years of shooting - an amazing achievement. It was the late Colonel ‘Tommy’ Thompson who started the Club in 1962. On March 24th 2012, 10 OL shooters, pictured, travelled to Ramsgate to take on the College team in the .22 range for the CS Gale Cup. Under the watchful eye of Range Officer Nigel Cavaglieri we took up our positions, four at a time, in the indoor range. Once again the OLs beat the College, this time with 507 as against their 436. At the end of March the start of the fullbore season saw us at Bisley, where we scored 393 against the Old Albanians’ score of 343. In April we found ourselves up against sterner competition in The 'Q' Match, shot at 500 and 600 yards. We came a disappointing 5th. Later in the month, our ‘A’ team came 2nd at the Long Range match, at 900 and 1000 yards. At the end of May we held a special day to mark our 50th Anniversary. It was hot and sunny, and this augured well for an enjoyable competition, shooting at 600 yards’ range. Tim Wagland, acting as ‘Anniversary Secretary’, had located ‘lapsed’ shooters and had cajoled Aidan Stowe, Louis Stephens, Keith Elliott, Yusef Ali, Andrea Marzari, Andrew Watson and Mike Skull to put in an appearance! Combined with the regular members, this gave us 17 OLs on the firing point. As the majority of our guests had not shot for a number of years, it was decided individual scores would be based on the ‘predicted score’ method, giving everyone a chance. Sure enough, the system worked well and guest Andrew Watson came first, scoring 46 (out of 50), this being closest to the score he had predicted.

The OL team consisted of: Emma Jane Standeven (‘10), Clair Marchant (Brown)(‘98), Lauren Shipley (‘11),Anna MacIntosh (‘10) Linda Harman(‘03), EJ's mum! The college squad consisted of Abbie Scott (captain) Bethany Mayes, Robyn Underhill, Suista Gurung, Sushma Rai, Mazino Malaka, Becky Peskett and Toby Udofia.

OL HOCKEY

OL NETBALL e were delighted to welcome back OL Netball to the March Day events after an absence of three years. SLC stepped onto the court with trepidation having previously seen the OLs play to a good standard when they were younger. It was a good start for SLC who managed to creep into the lead from the first quarter. Becky Peskett and Bethany Mayes were shooting well together and playing to the OL’s weaknesses, which happened to mainly only be their fitness! Emma-Jayne Standeven, Lauren Shipley and Anna McIntosh played a brilliant game and Clair Marchant surprised herself with her agility and speed on the court, having had two babies in two years. The OLs lost 10-4. Of course I am always pleased to see a win for SLC but it was just as rewarding watching the OLs again on the court. I hope they all keep their promise and come back for a rematch at the end of next year’s season. Sarah Glynn Brooks (Head of Academic PE)

strong OL side made this year's fixture a very competitive and exciting game with a large crowd clearly enjoying the match. The College were more dominant in the second half but the OLs did not give up as both sides scored in a very tight game. Alejandro Arraz of the college team finally broke the tie, scoring his 15th goal of the season and ensuring a 4-3 win for the college.

OL SQUASH n enthusiastic OL side met at the squash courts in the Sports Centre for the first time of what will hopefully once again become a regular fixture. The team, composed of Anthony Leal, Ben Mills, Freddie Smith, Jack Stanton, and Rodney Wilkening, came up against an enthusiastic, fit and young College side, losing 4 games to 6. There were 10 individual matches in total and the first round started off fairly evenly with the experience of Anthony Leal having the upper

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hand over his novice opponent and Rodney Wilkening beating the College captain. The second round proved decisive, however, and College fitness won through, although a strong performance by Jack Stanton saw him beat a good College player. A well-earned curry in the library ended a tiring but enjoyable afternoon! Rodney Wilkening

Later, in the clubhouse, Hon. Sec. Mike Davison talked about the Club’s history and presented Andrew with a tankard to commemorate his win. Six teams took part in June’s All-Day Match, shot at 300, 600, 900 and 1000 yards. The weather was very blustery in the morning and consequently scores were lower than usual and we came 4th with 531. In July we put up a team of 5 for the Public School Veterans, ‘the Vets’, and took 31st place out of 100 teams. At the end of September the season finished with the Club Championship, with Richard

Bird winning the two main cups. Afterwards the Club held its 50th AGM. Andi Parker-Smith was appointed Captain starting in 2013. On a sad note, we were sorry to hear of the death of two fellow shooters and friends. John Johnson and Brian Gale. On a brighter note, we are pleased to report, as a result of the Anniversary celebrations, we have gained four new members which means that membership now stands at 16. To join please contact: Mike Davison, Honorary Secretary, at mikej.davison @btinternet.com

50th ANNIVERSARY COMPILATION hen OLRC members (and Anniversary secretary) Tim Wagland and Alistair Mitchelhill were asked to create a commemorative journal celebrating the Rifle Club’s 50-year history, it was certainly not a job for the faint hearted! To everyone’s delight at the Anniversary match, Tim and Alistair were able to present a fascinating and comprehensive bound volume, full of interesting articles, reports, and photos spanning the full 50 years! A copy has kindly been promised to the College and OL Society, and a special place has been reserved for it in the (soon to be ready) Old Lawrentian display cabinets. There may be an opportunity to buy your own copy (price on application). We also hope to upload a version to the OL website www.olsociety.co.uk/societies-clubs/rifle-club/overview.

OL DAY - JUNE 2012

OL DAY - JUNE 2012 n enjoyable afternoon of cricket took place during the annual OLs v the College 1st XI match. With a bumper crowd looking on, Tim Collins, the school’s captain won the toss and the OLs were duly inserted. In their 20 overs, the OLs were able to muster a competitive total, thanks largely to Robbie Newbery, who made 42. Contributions from Alex Underhill, K.B. Asiedu, Nick Marchant and Will Bowra saw them to 113 for 8. In reply the College lost an early wicket,

A une OL Days just get better and better … Saturday 16th June 2012 began with a wonderfully generous group of OLs attending a ‘late breakfast’ function in the Library, talking about, and demonstrating, varied careers, jobs, and study courses to Upper School pupils. Pupils and OLs enjoyed the informal event. It proved a great opportunity for the pupils to both learn more about what life has to offer after SLC; converse with unknown adults and network with OLs, as they will soon be. The OLs also enjoyed the experience. Links were forged between professionals in ‘complimenting’ areas. This event proved an extremely good ‘first go’, and this year (June 8th, 2013) the two-hour morning event is happening again - with more of the school attending; more of you already signed up and more of you wanted please! As the above event finished, some spectacular cars and bikes were just pulling up around Prefect’s lawn be admired in the June sunshine. Pupils, OL and Junior school families, were able to enjoy both the Traditional School Fete (including special tours for OLs of the JS) and the vehicle display for the late morning and early afternoon. A lovely welcome reception and lunch was provided for the OLs. Cricket, tennis, and a number of

tours through the nearly finished theatre and new Bellerby House (old Taylor Hall) filled the afternoon. Some of the vintage cars even risked the old track up to Newlands to make sure they didn’t miss all the cricket! In addition to all the above we were extremely lucky to have some talented musicians play for us in the chapel. The organ, flute and even bagpipes took their turn in a wonderful few hours of delightful music - thank you to OL Eric Holdaway and family! During the evening, the Headmaster Revd. Mark Aitken kindly hosted a superb BBQ supper for all OLs and the senior school teams on the sunken lawn. A great ending to a really fun day - there was even some impromptu entertainment provided by certain OLs who will remain nameless!

OL CRICKET when Alex Cape was leg before to Danny Whittle for 6. However an assured 40 from Tim Collins steadied the ship. The result was still slightly uncertain, when he was bowled by Will Bowra with the score on 80 in the 15th over, but a few blows from Dom Holl meant that the College was able to secure victory by 8 wickets with 2 balls to spare.

Thanks to the following OLs who played: Alex Underhill, S Herwin, K.B. Asiedu, Charlie Collins, Robbie Newbery, Nick Marchant, Danny Whittle, Will Bowra and Kieran Thompson.

OL TENNIS n a windy day in June an OL tennis team featuring Niall Anderson, Dominic Farrell, Adrian Gates, Felix Johnson, Rodney Wilkening and special guest Ian Anderson, paired up against a strong and unbeaten College 1st VI squad. It soon became apparent that it was going to be a difficult afternoon for the Old Boys. Experience and a few extra pounds of “muscle” would not be enough to outplay the youngsters. Good play from Felix and a high level of enthusiasm and motivation from Dominic remained

unrewarded, however. The Andersons (father and son) also put in a strong showing but again fruitlessly. Luckily Wilkening and Gates managed to save face, winning all three of their sets to the

frustration of the boys who always try their best to beat their coach! A good afternoon’s tennis was enjoyed by all with the OLs losing by 3 sets to six. Rodney Wilkening 27

JOIN US AT OL DAY - 8TH JUNE 2013 his June’s OL Day will, once again, be funfilled - and there really is something to interest everyone. We would be extremely delighted to hear from you if you (or someone close to you) has a vehicle you think should be displayed at the old school; if you would like to play in the chapel; or if you would like to be part of the cricket or tennis teams that day. We also hope to hear from as many of you as possible to book in for the career morning. Remember - no formal presentations, just an

opportunity for you to encourage future OLs and talk about what you love doing/have done (to fellow OLs too, of course). Call Kerry on 01843 572932 for more details. The OL Society and the College love to see OLs back at the school having a great time meeting up with friends, reminiscing, showing your family where you used to come, and taking part in a very large party. We really hope to see you all … and to ensure we organise enough of everything ... please, please, book in!

OL DAY - SEPTEMBER 2012 Rugby players in the new Old Lawrentians’ kit

forwards allowing the big boys up front to try and dominate the game. fter many years of OL rugby being OL captain Alfredo missing from the calendar, SLC Director Furmanek opened the of Sport, Adam Izzard, arranged a match scoring after some superb free flowing rugby allowed the OLs against local club side Thanet Wanderers. The youth of the OLs was evident, as was the space. Thanet Wanderers were not going to lie experience and larger physicality of the down though and they stormed back into the game. The exchange of possession continued Wanderers. The OLs began as the much brighter side and throughout with the tight game, beginning to tried to play a much quicker brand of rugby, is take its toll on the lighter weight OLs. Thankfully, the more exciting brand of rugby familiar to the current school. Thanet Wanderers had other ideas though shone through and the newly formed OL rugby and were happy to keep the game tight in the team held firm to win 28-12.

OL RUGBY

Back row from left: Alice Neden, Mosophe Laniyan, Abbie Scott, Aradoyin, Lucy Buckingham,Arina Rai, Elspeth Neden, Laura Shipley, Holly LeBaigue, Jasmin Callaway, Kitty McConnell, Rachel Cunard, EJ Standeven, Bethany Mayes and Lowri Jones. Front row, from left: Melanie Tan, Mary Chukwu, Sina Dietzsch, Smriti Rai, Saleena Gurung, Sarita Gurung, Sushma Rai, Emily Mills, Natasha Jamieson and Suista Gurung.

he annual OL Girls Hockey match was a much tougher test for the College this year. All the girls had played for the 1st XI whilst they had been at the College. The fact that Lowri was playing regularly at Southgate ensured that the OLs were well organised being able to defend and rely on the counterattack. The College worked hard but the OLs controlled the game for long periods. Jasmine, Laura, Kitty and Holly worked tirelessly and with the support of Lowri they

OL HOCKEY proved to be too strong. EJ and Rachel tried hard in front of goal. Alice and Elspeth are both goalkeepers but played half a game each. The College helped by giving a couple of players from the 1st team squad. This enabled the OLs to have some fresh legs as they tired. Three goals (two from Lowri) were enough to secure a narrow win. 29

OL GOLF would like to open my report by extending an invitation to all OLs to join our society. You do not have to be a good, or even regular golfer, to take part. We have golfers of all abilities who enjoy the ‘Après Golf’ as much as the playing. We opened the 2012 season, as ever with Captain’s Day, held at the London Club. It was opened up to guests and the winners in our pair’s format were OL Paul Bailey and his guest David Knox. The Spring meeting was once again at Littlestone and our Captain Neil Cossey won the singles with David Steed second and Paul Bailey third. At the Grafton Morrish Qualifiers, held at Knole Park, we narrowly missed out on qualification for the finals but our team of Stephen Billings, Charles Crawford, Paul Bailey, Nick Taylor, Nell Cossey and Tim Dodd came very close. The Triangular match against Kings Canterbury and Dover College was won by Dover in a close contest. Our summer meeting at North Foreland is one I would urge East Kent OLs to attend; it is always a fun day with 18 holes

BOOK REVIEWS JUST IN TIME - A COLLECTION OF POEMS -

BY JOHN BINFIELD (HEADMASTER OF SLC FROM 1983-1996)

A record turnout of 40 OL golfers enjoyed playing in the 50th anniversary match against Old Paulines on the main course followed by lunch and then a stroll round the excellent par 3 course. We always invite guests to this meeting and the winner of the guest competition was Simon Fleet. The winner of the OL singles was Bob Gray with Neil Cossey in Second place. Always a high point of the year is Walton Heath and the match against Old Paulines. Despite losing the match, a very rare occurrence, a good time was had by all and we were entertained by Bob and Harriet Gray at their home. Redlibbetts was a small group but non the less enjoyable with Bob Gray coming out on top. The year ended with our Autumn meeting at Knole Park

followed by the AGM. The singles competition was won by Paul Bailey, who also won the Spring and Autumn combined prize of the Katrina Salver. Stephen 'Sammy' Samuels stepped down as President of the Society after seven years at this year’s AGM. He was succeeded by Bob Gray, who was unanimously elected. The Society would like to thank Sammy for his service to the Society, not just in his capacity as President but for his huge contribution over the last 54 years from the very first meeting of the Society to date. Timothy Dodd, Honorary Secretary OLGS, tmhdodd@me.com 07590 961266

SLC V JAMES BARDEN’S XI n a closely contested game, on January 31st, 2013, it was Barden’s team which opened the scoring. Tim Smith playing opposite his son Jake managed to find some space in the circle to deflect a cross from Chris Laslett into the goal. St Lawrence responded well, committing players forward and playing with pace and skill it wasn’t long before they deservedly levelled the score. The visitors brought on Richard Laslett (OL) to try and provide more weight to their

ust in Time is a retrospective collection of poetry, ‘autobiographical [and] covering a period of seventy years’, as detailed in the author’s introduction Addressing what Binfield terms ‘the mercurial nature of memory’, the poems explore various events, places and people which have featured in a clearly eventful life, beginning with the author’s recollections of life as an evacuee during World War II, and moving into meditations on school and visits to family members (‘Sunday Visit; Father’s Parents, Eton Wick, 1941’). Later sections treat Binfield’s national service and also his time as Headmaster of Saint Lawrence College, a post he held for thirteen years. Just in Time is, ultimately, an exploration of one man’s memories and, in that sense, a poetic memoir. Blending vers libre and rhymed verse, the collection is a fitting monument to a life of public service, pedagogy and passionate devotion to the arts, lived against an ever-changing backdrop of war, personal tragedy but also levity - glimpsed in the Audenesque sing-song of ‘Oxford Coffee Morning, Staged in Free Rhyme

HOCKEY attack. However it was Chris Laslett who finished crisply from the top of the circle having won the ball in midfield. The second half was dominated by the school side, who continued to play in their fast, attacking style of hockey. Eventually the home side was rewarded with a goal from a flowing attack which was well finished to level the scores at 22. Steve Laslett returned to

midfield having gone off to tend an elbow injury, and his influence enabled Barden’s team to counter attack well, as both teams looked for the winning goal. With less than a minute to go veteran Jimmy Laslett with a thunderous cross found Tim Smith at the far post to coolly slot home the winner. St Lawrence though will take much from this game knowing that for large parts of this contest they were the better side, and were unlucky to lose. James Barden

and Adaptable Time Mosso and Mezza Voce’ with its evocation of the Oxford RP of a now lost world: ‘you’ve an essay to complete/on Paradise Lost?’ Relax. It’s intellectual décor. Like Gore Vidal in Palimpsest, the first volume of his memoirs, Binfield seems to be in search of a past which is irredeemable: to be recalled but never relived. ‘I go back and forth between the present (now already past) to people and places that I knew long ago, duly noting along the way a number of familiar faces, some more real than others’ Vidal writes, and Binfield does much the same. ‘Tempus fugit’, Just in Time seems to remind us: and hence, carpe diem. Many Old Lawrentians will know and remember John Binfield very well. Teaching English at SLC from 1961, he later became Housemaster of Lodge in 1969, and appointed Headmaster in 1983, retiring in 1996. Best known and loved for being the inspiration to many a budding thespian, John Binfield directed the most spectacular plays at St Lawrence College throughout his 35 years at the college. Now ‘semi’ retired, John is still living in Broadstairs. Christian Taylor, Head of English

ABRAHAM, A BRIDGE SO NEAR BY REVEREND BASIL W. HAZLEDINE (GRANGE 1932-38) his book sets out to challenge one of the most dangerous fallacies in the popular thinking of today’s world - that there is a basic antagonism between Islam and Christianity. Taking as its starting point -the key texts of the scriptures of the two faiths together with those of Judaism, which formed a common ancestor of both (i.e. the words of the Old and New Testaments and the Holy Qur'an), this book identifies a Divine Plan at work for the operation of the world, and for its healing where it has failed to follow that divine purpose. This study focuses on the complementary nature of the truths progressively entrusted to the founders of the three Abrahamic Faiths. It suggests ways in which together they can form a united force today, capable of both

repelling the forces of militant materialism and religious fundamentalism, and replacing the present disastrous effects of unbridled self-interest with practical steps to bring peace and plenty to a divided world. “It is a real achievement and I’m delighted to see it completed. It’s certainly a timely work and I hope it has a wide readership,” said the Rt Reverend. Rowan Williams - former Archbishop of Canterbury. Basil’s book is available to buy at £6 per copy (includes UK postage and packing). Please send/make payable cheques to Mrs R Woodward, 151 Porlock Avenue, Stafford, ST17 0XY. Email davrow@btinernet.com, or call (01785) 665883 for more information. 31