No.53 Autumn 2022 THE The Falklands 40 years on College hosts the National Remembrance and Thanksgiving Service The Good Ship St George St George Division is 10 Founders’ Day 2022 Back to its full glory QueenElizabeth II remembered The magazine of the Old Pangbournian Society PANGB URNIAN
2 OP News recent OP achievements26 Welcome from the Chair of Governors08 Queen Elizabeth II remembered10 Welcome from the OP Society Chairman04 Welcome from The Head06 The Good Ship St George34 No man is an island38 WilliamInterview:Skinner22 Classic Car Show returns42 Contents OP Committee30 King’s Medal Returns31 The Falklands 40 years on32
3 OP Club News Golf, cricket & sailing50 Gala Lunch onboard HQS Wellington54 Campus Life56 Exam Success56 Sports News58 Founders' Day44 PPA66 THE PANGBOURNIAN | CONTENTS Leaders by Robin Knight70 Credits and Contacts Editor: Tim Hamilton Design and production: OPO Creative Contributors: Alexandra Garnier, Robin Knight, Phillip Plato, Christopher Heathwood Cover image: Her Majesty the Queen, visiting the College in 2017 Submissions: development@pangbourne.com Pangbourne College, Pangbourne, Reading RG8 8LA Reception: +44 (0)118 984 2101www.pangbourne.comDevelopment Report88 Upcoming Events90 In Memoriam84 Piano Festival64 Co-curricular & community News60 Interview: Colin Wagstaff68 Full Throttle across the Atlantic72 Interview: Harriet & Dan Paynter76 From Archivesthe78
4The
‘I suspect that part of the reason for the affection felt by the College and OPs towards Her Majesty was that she was the personification and embodiment of the Flag Values promoted to pupils at Pangbourne College and as such she was an example to us all.’
I was delighted to attend a “Young Alum Night” in London in May, focused around the 5 year reunion of the classes of 2016/17, as well as other OPs under 35. I was pleased to meet so many younger OPs and hope this will inspire them to attend more events in future.
recent sad news of the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has necessitated a late redraft of the latest Pangbournian Magazine and indeed my welcome piece.
‘I encourage all OPs to not just visit the Pangbournian Portal but to “register” and invite other OPs in their network to join too’
Now poignantly, being the Platinum Jubilee, the College hosted a ‘Platinum Parade’ in April. The OP Society assembled its own “Division” taking
Phillip Plato with Charles Bown
The new Car & Motorcycle Group was established this year. The College’s
The Yacht Club continues to thrive. Aside from racing in the Belvidere Cup earlier in the year and preparing to host the Arrow Trophy Regatta on the Solent in October, the club also organised its Summer Rally which began in Portsmouth in July. Other events included an inaugural East Coast Event in Ipswich in June culminating in dinner at the Royal Harwich Yacht Club.
Welcome fromthe
part in the Parade. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend due to ill health but I am very grateful to the OP Society President, Mark Dumas (64-68) for taking command of the OP “Division”. By all accounts, the OPs acquitted themselves very well on the parade ground!
I know that Pangbournians around the world will be mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of OPs around the globe who, whether due to distance or other practical reasons, could not make the journey themselves, I attended the Lying-in-State of Her Majesty at Westminster Hall in London. Many have remarked on her selflessness, in spite of her ill health, in conducting the Prime Ministerial transition barely 48 hours before her passing. I had the opportunity to observe this dedication to duty as recently as Sunday 4 September, where I was honoured to lay a wreath at Trinity Square Gardens on Merchant Navy Day. During the Service, a personal message from Her Majesty was read out which itself was moving in its sincerity but I noted it was signed and dated that same day, just 4 days before her demise.
The College and the OP Society is rightly proud of its long relationship with the Royal Family and with Her Majesty, as demonstrated by her five visits to the College during her lifetime. Indeed, I have previously met with OPs who recall that very first visit, when as Princess Elizabeth, she accompanied her father King George VI in 1943.
OPs continue to support the wellestablished sports and social activities including the Golf Club, organised by Charlie Parry (81-85), holding a most enjoyable day at Beaconsfield Golf Club in May. OP Golf organises numerous events each year including a match against the College in September; anyone interested can contact Charlie through the Pangbournian Portal.
Obviously College life must go on, as does the OP Society, and I must also update you on other news from the past year. It is almost two years since I was elected Chairman of the Society, taking over from David Nicholson (64-68). After a quiet first year due to covid restrictions, this year has more than made up for it and has been rather busy!
Phillip Plato (H 73-77) Chairman OP Society
Henley Regatta
2003 crew and the 60th anniversary of the victorious 1963 crew. Henley Royal Regatta saw the College organise informal drinks receptions on Lion Meadow, with both events were well attended with OPs from the 1960’s to 2020’s.
Sadly the Grand Reunion of former Nautical Colleges (Worcester, Conway, General Botha & Pangbourne) fell victim to covid restrictions. However, I was gratified to be invited to attend a BBQ in Chichester organised by Michael Askwith (59-64) and Ralph Godfrey (6165); a regional OP event which several alumni from Worcester, Conway and Botha attended.
Chairman
Young Alum Night
Classic Car Show in June, organised by Hesperus Housemaster Tom Cheney, was well attended, culminating in a flypast by the Battle of Britain Lancaster. Anthony Fenwick-Wilson (53-57) raced his vintage car at various events during the summer at Mallory Park, Silverstone & Oulton Park. Further events are being planned for this group.
Georgia Misson (07-12) is trying to revive the Nautics Boat Club, including a new supporters group which aims to encourage OPs who are still actively rowing to consider rowing in OP colours or support the College. Other aims for this group include celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of the victorious 1992 crew, the 20th anniversary of the victorious
OP-OW-GBOBA Platinum BBQ, Bracklesham, June 2022
In June, the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel was host to a poignant service to mark the 40th anniversary of the Falklands conflict, with HRH The Duke of Kent in attendance. I was privileged to represent the OP Society and those fifty-one OPs who participated in the bitter conflict. A fascinating video which illustrates the extent of OP participation in the conflict is still available on the Pangbournian Portal.
OP Society
THE PANGBOURNIAN | WELCOME FROM THE OP SOCIETY CHAIRMAN
I was honoured to attend Founders' Day and to see the latest school leavers complete their tenure at the College, welcoming many of them into the OP Society during the day. The OP’s narrowly defeated a College XI in a very
good humoured cricket match. I was delighted to see this tradition being Finally,restored.theOld Pangbournian Society Dinner is being held at the College on Saturday 29 October, tickets are available on the website now, and it is set to be a fantastic evening bringing old friends from across the generations back together.
In fact, more than anything else last year, it was the appetite for community events evident among Pangbournians which struck me most forcefully. “Pangbourne is a people place,” it has often been said, and our College Sundays and Platinum Jubilee events enjoyed large attendances. My favourite aspect of Pangbourne has always been the buzz after a parade when the excellent relationships which characterise our community can be seen most clearly.
6It was a huge honour and privilege that the College was invited to send the two Chief Cadet Captains of the College, another Chief and a member of staff to take part in The Queen’s funeral procession from Westminster Abbey to Wellington Arch – as Pangbournians did for King George V and King George VI. They will certainly remember the experience for the rest of their lives. We are conscious of the special relationship
WelcomefromtheHeadthattheCollegehashadwithourSovereignandpledgeourselvestoservingKingCharlesashetakesuphisheavyresponsibilities.
I welcome this opportunity to reflect on the last six months, which saw a gradual return to normal after two disrupted years. It has been wonderful to see the Pangbournian community being able to come together again.
The news of Her Majesty The Queen’s death has cast a shadow over the start of the new academic year, but also provided an opportunity to reflect again on her extraordinary life of service to the nation and the Commonwealth. I was particularly struck by the Archbishop of Canterbury’s words at the State Funeral: “People of loving service are rare in any walk of life. Leaders of loving service are still rarer. But in all cases those who serve will be loved and remembered when those who cling to power and privileges are long forgotten.” Our shared values, the Flag Values, resonate strongly with those which The Queen exhibited and will, I trust, continue to shape Pangbournians in the years ahead.
Thomas Garnier
magazine, which gives a taste of some of the other things our pupils have Visitingachieved.Year9 in Llangorse in May, I was reminded of the crucial part our adventure curriculum plays in developing values and confidence in our pupils. This is just one aspect of the College’s provision which is being considered as part of the development planning to which the Chair of
Of course, school is about much more than events and the commitment of our pupils to their studies – particularly the GCSE and A Level cohorts, sitting formal exams for the first time – and also to their co-curricular interests has been good to see. The results this summer were among the best the College has ever had, for which all deserve congratulations. I hope you enjoy reading the Campus Life section of this
7 THE PANGBOURNIAN | WELCOME FROM THE HEAD
Governors has referred, a wide-ranging review of the College and the education we offer, to ensure that we can continue to fulfil our mission successfully in the years ahead. I look forward to sharing our plans with you later in the academic year. We start it with more pupils than ever before, 466, and with an optimistic spirit.
I commend the articles in the magazine to you and for those reading this who have not visited the College for some time, please get in touch and we would love to see you soon. I wish you all a good conclusion to this turbulent year.
THE8 PANGBOURNIAN | WELCOME FROM THE CHAIR OF GOVERNORS
Patrick Roberts
There has been much going on in our wider community and I hope the stories of the College told here will both inform and inspire you whatever your age or involvement with Pangbourne. The Covid lockdowns are beginning to be a memory for many but it was only in the summer term that the College returned to full ‘normality’ as restrictions placed on our lives were lifted relatively recently. It was therefore a delight last term to see Pangbourne functioning properly again after two years of restrictions. We had all become used to remote working but for our pupils the ability to interact with each other and take part in the breadth of co-curriculum activity has brought home just how important it is
I write this at a time of great sadness at the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The College has close ties with the Royal Family and our community feels a strong sense of loss. We now look forward with confidence to the reign of King Charles III; God save The King.
and equips our pupils with the right skills whilst enabling them to reach their potential. The plan must be underpinned by strong financials. It is therefore pleasing to report that the school roll is at a record high at the start of the new school year and, notwithstanding economic uncertainty, we are well placed to move towards the target of 500 pupils in the next few years.
to be at school. There are many stories from the term that catalogue individual and team success and none more so than Founders’ Day. It was a spectacular day of celebration, with two amazing parades, and although a day primarily for our pupils there most certainly something for the whole Pangbourne community. There was a good turn-out from OPs both young and not-so young.
I have great pleasure in welcoming you to the Autumn edition of the Pangbourne magazine.
Pangbourne came though Covid with an enhanced reputation and the College is looking to build on this with a new development plan that will be lay foundations for success over the next decade. We must ensure that our education is relevant for the real world
Chair of WelcomeGovernorsfromthe
The Pangbournian Portal is your easy to use virtual community. Whatever your year, whatever your interests, keep up to date with everything Pangbourne. Sign up to become a part of it community.pangbourne.comtoday.
Connecting, inspiring and mentoring Pangbourniansall
QueenElizabeth
Pangbourne College, formerly the Nautical College, Pangbourne, had an association with The Late Queen that spanned almost 80 years with her first visit in 1943, at that time as Princess Elizabeth; with four further visits including celebrating the Centenary of the College in 2017. The College’s Visitors Book not only contains the
10
signatures of Her Late Majesty and her late husband The Duke of Edinburgh, but also that of her father King George VI and her mother Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, who much to everyone’s delight, finally visited the College for Founders’ Day in 1980, some thirty-seven years after her husband and daughter.
II
The Head, Mr Thomas Garnier, says of the Queen: ‘The Pangbourne College community is very thankful for its long association with the Royal Family and for our late Queen’s active interest in the College’s life. It was an honour to have Her Majesty and The Duke of Edinburgh with us as recently as May 2017 and we have such fond memories
The Pangbourne College community was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen on Thursday 8 September 2022. She honoured the pledge made on her twenty-first birthday in 1947 when the then Princess Elizabeth broadcast to the world that ‘my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service.’
‘We remember her and her whole family, especially King Charles III, Camilla, The Queen Consort, and The Prince and Princess of Wales in our thoughts and prayers as they come to terms with their great loss and assume their new roles and responsibilities.’
11 THE PANGBOURNIAN | QUEEN ELIZABETH II
was a recognition by King George V of the importance of encouraging high quality leadership in the Merchant and Royal Navy, especially after the experiences of the Great War. It has continued to be awarded, generally, to our Chief Cadet Captains of College throughout the reigns of King Edward VIII, King George VI, and Queen Elizabeth II.
Since 1927, in a tradition inaugurated by King George V, a Gold Medal has been awarded annually on Founders' Day 'to encourage the qualities which make for the finest citizen, in particular: integrity and independence of character; kindness and the protection of the weak; readiness to forgive offence; desire to conciliate the differences of others; and above all, unflinching loyalty and a sense of service.' Since 2008, Her Majesty The Queen has awarded two medals, one to each of the Chief Cadet Captains of the College, who are selected with these criteria in mind and in recognition of the teamwork involved in serving together in their leadership roles.
Ellen White & Frederick Taucher are presented with their Queen’s Gold Medals
The Queen’s Gold Medal
of that occasion when she and The Duke seemed very happy indeed to be with us.
The College has enjoyed a strong connection with Royalty since its founding in 1917, solidified only a decade after formation with the introduction of a prize awarded by the Monarch. The Gold Medal is an annual prize awarded to those pupils who demonstrate ‘the qualities which make for the finest citizen’ and is, we believe, the only one of its kind issued to school pupils in the UK. Its institution in 1927
Queen’s Gold Medals on display in the Lionel Stephens Archive Collection
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The first visit to the College in 1943 was somewhat unexpected for all parties involved. In the run up to Founders’ Day 1943 preparations at the College were reaching fever pitch, much to the bemusement of many of the staff. A certain amount of hustle and bustle was always associated with the occasion, but this year it seemed slightly more excessive than usual. One of the sewingroom maids who had been tasked with providing new cushions for the cricket pavilion was quoted as saying, ‘All this fuss, you might think The King and Queen were coming!’. Unbeknown to
1943
her, and the rest of the College, Sir Philip Devitt had been diligently keeping a secret for many months: King George VI and Queen Elizabeth would indeed be coming as the guests of honour on Founders’ Day. Due to war time security measures, Sir Philip had been instructed that if even the slightest hint of the visit leaked out then the whole visit would be called off. Such was the secrecy that the assembled parents and cadets were only informed on the day, an hour before the Royal Party was due to arrive.
for Sir Philip to receive a surprise of his own. As the King alighted from the car he was not followed by Queen Elizabeth, but instead their seventeen-year-old daughter Princess Elizabeth. The Queen had, only the previous evening, sustained an injury to her eye and so the Princess stepped up to accompany her father. Princess Elizabeth’s appearance was greeted with great enthusiasm and excitement, not least by a very startled sewing maid who was delighted to see the King and Princess taking advantage of her handiwork. The visit proved a great success, The King even complimenting Sir Philip on the
At 2.30pm the Royal car pulled up to the front of Devitt House and it was time
Princess Elizabeth accompanies her father King George VI
As the Royal car pulled away from the College no-one present could have predicted that less than a decade later, at the age of twenty-five, the young Princess would become Queen Elizabeth II, or that this visit marked the beginning of an association with the College that would endure for almost 80 years.
‘Princess Elizabeth graciously agreed to accept an Album of Photographs of her visit’
Right: 1943 Correspondence
THE PANGBOURNIAN | QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Far right: 1943 Founders’ Day Programme ‘A busy Founders’ Day programme of events’
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homemade cake served at tea, remarking to Princess Elizabeth, ‘we don’t get grub like this at The Palace, do we?’
Princess Elizabeth looks on as King George VI presents the Gold Medal to Seafield Grant (40-42)
The Queen meets Governors and Staff
1967well!
The Queen inspecting Parade
In 1967, the College celebrated its fiftieth anniversary with a special Founders’ Day visit from Her Majesty, making her second visit to the College, this time in her role as Monarch. The Queen was accompanied by her husband, The Duke of Edinburgh, in a full programme including the opportunity to visit the Boat Club and watch pupils sail on Pangbourne’s fabulous stretch of the River Thames. On this particular occasion one of The Duke’s own sailing boats was employed and, by all accounts, proved to be difficult to sail, as much to his amusement The Duke knew all too
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As part of the River pageant that was to take place a very special boat would be taking part. Some years earlier the Duke of Edinburgh had gifted a sailing dinghy to the College and it was decided that it would be the perfect vessel for a display of sailing. The pageant got off to a fantastic start but by the time the dinghy, the White Heron sailed into view there were a large number of boats ahead of them all trying to stay clear of the weir. This meant that a sharp turn was needed to avoid a collision. Just as everyone was breathing a sigh of relief
The Queen inspecting Parade
THE PANGBOURNIAN | QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Jeremy Moger receives his Gold Medal under the watchful eye of first ever recipient Sir Frank Hopkins
that such an event had been avoided the dinghy clipped another boat which was enough to turn her over. Her Majesty and the Duke however were completely unphased with the Duke of Edinburgh turning to the Captain Superintendent and confiding that he had always found the dinghy difficult to sail. As the boat and her sailors came ashore the Royal party made a point of reassuring them and commiserating with them on their bad luck.
Above: The Queen and the Duke enjoying the displays by the River. Below: The White Heron capsized
After many months of meticulous planning the great day finally arrived. Included in the visit was a trip to the Boathouse to see some of the activities on the river including a special display of rowing and sailing. Initially there had been some question as to whether such a visit would be possible due to the logistics of moving the Royal guests and assembled dignitaries down to the Thames not to mention the problem of controlling traffic on the River itself. Eventually the matter was decided, with those in charge of planning stating that “Pangbourne without the River was like Hamlet without the Prince of Denmark!”
The visit was deemed by all concerned a great success, the excitement at the River notwithstanding. The Queen presented her Gold Medal to former Chief Cadet Captain of the College Jeremy Moger (62-66), who had by that time left the College to join the Royal Marines. The occasion was even more special as Jeremy Moger was presented his medal in the presence of the first ever Gold Medal recipient, Sir Frank Hopkins (24-27).
The problem of traffic on the River was also swiftly dealt with when a letter arrived from the Thames Conservancy stating that two of their patrol boats would maintain order on the day, however drama was not entirely averted!
In 2007, two years after the current Head, Thomas Garnier, had been appointed, the 25th anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands was
The Queen is greeted by former Prime Minister Baroness Thatcher and the then Prime Minister Tony Blair with his wife Cherie in 2007
The Queen with the late Headmaster Anthony Hudson in 2000
marked by national commemorative events. These included a Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving at the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel. Those present that day included our late Queen who was accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh. On this occasion the then Prime Minister, Tony Blair, Defence Secretary, Des Browne, as well as former Prime Minister, Baroness Thatcher, who had sent the British Task Force to the Falklands in 1982, were also among the many VIPs who were present.
Right: The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh arrive to mark 25 years since the Falklands War in 2007
Following the Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving, there was a walkabout during which The Queen, hosted by former pupil Rear Admiral
2000 & 2007
Jeremy Sanders (56-60) and The Duke, hosted by the Head, met pupils and members of the College community past and present, as well as those who had served in the Falklands War. Her Majesty and The Duke then joined a very special luncheon in Devitt House. Other OPs involved in the occasion included Admiral Sir Michael Layard (49-53) and Rear Admiral Roger Lane-Nott (58-62).
The Queen’s route to Devitt House is marked by pupils in 2007
Her Late Majesty’s third and fourth visits to the College were in 2000 and 2007 and were in connection with the creation of the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel, a national living memorial to those who lost their lives in the Falklands War of 1982. Fifty-one former pupils were involved in the Conflict and thirteen were subsequently decorated. In 2000, she opened the Chapel in the final year of the then Head and mastermind of the Chapel, Anthony Hudson (1988-2000).
Her Majesty the Queen during her visit in 2007
THE PANGBOURNIAN | QUEEN ELIZABETH II
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and were greeted by The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire who introduced them to other local dignitaries before Chair of Governors, Rear Admiral Roger Lane-Nott CB (58-63), his wife, Roisin, The Head, Thomas Garnier, and wife, Alex.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Arriving by helicopter on Big Side with a pilot who looked just like Prince William, The Queen and The Duke travelled by Royal car to the parade ground and were driven through ‘an avenue’ of very smartly dressed pupils standing ‘to attention’ in their No.1 uniform.
Her Majesty and The Duke alighted at the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel
A very special service led by The Reverend Neil Jeffers followed. It included one of Her Majesty’s favourite anthems, William Harris’s ‘Faire is the heaven’ which was sung a capella and conducted by Ellie Calver, Director of Music (16-20). The lesson was read by Senior Scholar Rebecca Crossley
The fifth and final visit to the College was in 2017, to mark the Centenary of the College. On a chilly May day, The Queen and the Duke paid a very happy four-hour visit to the College.
2017
A special service to mark the Centenary
Her Majesty The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh sign the Visitors Book for the final time
Her Majesty The Queen with Rear Admiral Roger Lane-Nott, Chair of Governors
Her Majesty The Queen meets with Old Pangbournians, including Robin Knight and the late Keith Evans
(10-17). The service ended with a rousing introduction and accompaniment by the College’s Fanfare Team (Head of Instrumental Studies and Bandmaster Jeremy Clack (16-17), Philip Garnier (13-18), Fin South-Klein (12-17), Louis Winter (12-19), and Toby Woollen (10-17)). The Duke was much impressed with their performance.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving was read by The Head, which included a particular reference to Old Pangbournians: “Almighty God, we remember before you the 178 Old Pangbournians and one governor who gave their lives in the defence of this nation in the Second World War. We thank you for their sacrifice and also for the many Old
Her Majesty The Queen is introduced to pupils including Rebecca Crossley, Senior Scholar
Her YachtMajesty’sBritannia
THE PANGBOURNIAN | QUEEN ELIZABETH II
The service was followed by meeting current and former members of staff outside Chapel and meeting OPs including Merrick Rayner (68-73) and Richard Shuttleworth (57-62), and staff and pupils in Devitt House, followed by luncheon in the Old Library, at which Her Majesty was presented, by the author Robin Knight (56-61), with a leather-bound copy of Pangbourne College: Spirit in Changing Times, the illustrated history of the College published for the Centenary.
Pangbournians who have suffered in that and other conflicts. We praise you for the College’s legacy of service, for the many who have dedicated themselves to the Armed Forces and to the Merchant Navy and for the wider good that students of this College have offered to the nation and the world.’
A further link between the College and our late Queen, was Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia. Two OPs served as commanding officers of this special ship. Britannia served the Royal Family for over 44 years, travelling more than a million nautical miles, providing the perfect Royal residence for glittering state visits, official receptions, Royal honeymoons and relaxing family holidays. The late Rear Admiral Sir Paul Greening (42-45) was the commanding officer between 1981 and 1985 and Commodore Tony Morrow (58-62) was the final captain from 1995 to 1997 when Her Majesty’s Yacht was, sadly, decommissioned. Further the Head’s father Rear Admiral Sir John Garnier was commanding officer between 1985 and 1990.
the College, and for the first time in 50 years the Gold Medals were presented in person to the Joint Chiefs, Ellen White (12-17) and Frederick Taucher (13-17). The event culminated in RSM Colin Hearn (CR 10-21) calling for three cheers from the College for the Royal couple.
After lunch the whole College, with the Guard detachment, began a short parade by marching in good order on to the parade ground which was ringed entirely by spectators. The Marching Band then played the National Anthem. Her Majesty then presented a new colour to
22William Skinner
Tailor By Royal Appointment
William Skinner is a man with a rich and distinguished history in more ways than one. He was in Macquarie Division from 1982-87 and a proud Guard Commander. He still counts many of his year group as good friends including a General and an Admiral. “The experience I got from Pangbourne benefitted me a great deal - independence, get-up-and-go, resilience - it prepared me for life and what I do now”.
The company also has Royal Warrants from the Sultan of Oman and the King of Bahrain.
“We regularly go down to Sandhurst to kit out young officer cadets before they join their regiment, then meet them at the end of their second term and make
Number 10 Savile Row
Main photo: Yeoman and Watermen Uniforms
the uniforms for when they pass out at the end of the third term. It is a very important part of our business and very much part of our DNA and heritage.
We have a Royal Warrant of Appointment to The Queen for making uniforms for the Officers and Yeomen of the Yeoman of The Guard, in addition we make ceremonial uniforms for The Master of The Horse, Watermen and Swan Marker. Prince William and Harry’s first official portrait that hangs in the National Portrait Gallery is of them in Dege & Skinner uniforms.”
THE PANGBOURNIAN | WILLIAM SKINNER
Founded in 1865, Dege & Skinner is one of the oldest bespoke tailoring companies to be in continual operation in the world - and one of only two left on Savile Row to still be a family-run business. It began as a mainly military tailors for which it is still renowned today, 155 years later.
Other famous customers include: David Bowie, Michael Jackson and Gianni Versace.
William’s father Michael, now the current chairman, came into the business in 1953 with William joining in 1991. “I’m the fifth generation of Skinners to become a Master Tailor and the third generation to run the business”.
Photo right: Jon Wells Morgan Motors, William Skinner Dege & Skinner, on Savile Row 2022
Sandhurst & Royal Warrants
William relates that when his father started one of the first things he had to do was go to Westminster for the Queen’s Coronation. “ My father and grandfather were at the House of Lords from about 5am. Dege & Skinner held all the coronation robes for the peers and on the morning of the coronation in 1953 they had to go and dress everyone. They had about 100 peers to look after, as you can imagine, it was pretty much mayhem. Winston Churchill refused to wear the correct hat and instead insisted on wearing the Privy Counsellor’s hat.”
Photo left: Master of the Horse
Prince Harry wore the uniform of the Blues & Royals and the frock coat alone took military specialist and ‘QEST’ scholar, Sarah Wilkinson, an entire week to hand-stitch the intricate sleeves.
“Our staff first met the Royal brothers, Princes Harry and William, when they were Officer Cadets at Sandhurst in the early 2000s. They just came in as normal people, which was how they appreciated being treated, and we made their uniforms. It was through this relationship that ultimately we were asked to make Prince Harry’s wedding uniform and the four page boy uniforms.
At this year’s Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations our work was very much on show with the regiments on parade. Not that this was the main centre of attraction of course but we were quietly but incredibly proud - it’s a part of our sustainableBespoke,history.”
& British made
A WeddingRoyal & The JubileePlatinumQueen’s
“Clearly we have a huge heritage. But we need to make sure that we stay relevant to all our existing customers and potential customers alike. We were the first tailor for example, to
We were sworn to secrecy. Even within the company only a small handful of us knew who and what we were making for. Only when the wedding day happened was it finally in the public domain.
Photo right: Dege & Skinner Platinum Jubilee window,
What has never changed since our early days is our relationship with the customer. We put them at the centre of everything. They receive individual
offer bespoke shirts on Savile Row. We forged an exciting collaboration with British and hand made Morgan Cars who share our values as you can see in our video. It follows that trends come and go in fashion more than in bespoke tailoring but there’s a resurgence of more gentlemanly dressing in lighter fabrics and looks which we also offer along with an opportunity to buy into the brand with a ready-to-wear collection that we introduced six years ago.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | WILLIAM SKINNER
Yeoman Uniform at 10 Savile Row
May 2022
There’s always a need for innovation and style but there has to be a responsibility with it. Our bespoke wear can still be worn fifteen to twenty years or more down the line. It’s made in sustainable wool fabric. And absolutely everything is created right here at Savile Row so has a low carbon footprint.
As you can probably gather I’m passionate about the business and carrying on the family tradition means a lot to me. I have two young adult children, Harry and Lucy, who have now left Pangbourne. If they eventually want to come in the business after experiencing what the world offers they would have to demonstrate that same passion.”
And as a family business, our staff are of paramount importance. I feel honoured to have such a highly skilled, creative and loyal workforce. We invest in apprentices and training the next generation and most of our trainees stay with us.
attention in every detail from a dedicated team - a full bespoke experience with two or three fittings.
Richard published his book Adventures of a Lifetime in February. It is the life story of a true seafarer – one of the final, select few Merchant Navy officers produced by the NCP who, since going ashore in 1981, has spent most of the rest of his life working in Africa, first as a harbour pilot in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and latterly as a shipbroker in Durban, South Africa. During his career Richard visited more than 100 countries, sailed the seven seas and became a Master Mariner. In total, he spent 12 years with P&O after Pangbourne and reached First Officer rank.
Fenwick-Wilson (53-57)
Richard1960s
News about and from OPs in 2022. Some items have been edited and shortened, with the full news items available to read on the OP website. Please send news items for the Winter Edition of Pangbournian Magazine to development@pangbourne.com
Robin Batt (61-64)
Robin Knight (H 56-61)
Today, 'Bravely and faithfully' is out of vogue in some quarters, but this book makes a compelling case for their continued relevance and the fact that our ability to enjoy our freedoms is firmly rooted in the contribution and sacrifice of those who believed and acted accordingly.”
OP News
Anthony1950s
Anthony Fenwick-Wilson
Captain Robin Batt was elected Master of the Honorable Company of Master Mariners for the term May 2022 to April 2023. Originally bound for the Fleet Air Arm, he joined BP Tanker Company eventually gaining promotion to Chief Officer. He then left to join COH Baines, an industrial rubber company, eventually rising to be Managing Director for 26 years, with the company known as the ‘Barometer for the British Runner Industry’. Robin retired in 2012 and joined the Honorable Company of
Robin Knight
Throughout the summer, Anthony is racing his 1935 vintage Railton Straight-Eight at four events. These include Silverstone on 16th July, then at Oulton Park on 29th – 31st July, before returning again at Silverstone on 13th August and finally at Mallory Park on 21st August.
Brook-Hart (64-69)
In June, Robin Knight’s triumphant book Leaders, was reviewed in Warships magazine by Peter Hore. Peter described how “Knight compellingly and inspiringly explores how the college’s motto has been translated into action by generations of pupils who know themselves as ‘Old Pangbournians’.
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Richard Brook-Hart
This delightful series of anecdotes is timely given today's dark situation in Europe. A must-but for those with a connection to the Nautical College, Pangbourne (now Pangbourne College), it relates true stories around the concepts of duty, selflessness and service to our
society, and makes compelling reading. The stories deal with conflicts from World War I to the present day, including the Falklands, Iraq and Afghanistan. But they also cover an astonishing range of activities, as curiosity and an appetite for adventure provide common thread.
In July Leaders was reviewed in the most recent edition of Pennant: The Forces Pension Society Magazine: “The author is a former foreign correspondent and Old Pangbournian; this book, a paean to his old school, examines leadership exhibited by an astonishing array of old boys over more than 100 years. That sounds parochial, but it is not, as the book serves as a vehicle to examine leadership, what it is to be part of a team and what a positive difference an institution can make when it values service above all.
Continuing his passion for the food & drink industry, Hugo joined Samworth Brothers, one of the largest chilled and ambient food manufacturers, in April as Group Chief Executive. The 12,500 strong workforce source, make and deliver delicious food enjoyed by millions of people across the UK every day. Customers include the major supermarkets, convenience and food service groups. Samworth Bros make millions of pies, sandwiches, salads, wraps, deli counter products and prepared meals every week for the retailers and own some of the most popular food brands such as Ginsters, Higgidy, Urban Eat and Soreen. The food industry has been deeply tested in recent years, through Covid and labour shortages, and now rampant inflation and supply chain challenges. It is never a dull moment! Hugo was previously CEO of Brakes, the UK's leading foodservice distributor.
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Lieutenant Colonel James Greaves, Commanding Officer First Battalion Grenadier Guards, was Guest of Honour at College Sunday on 24 April. James inspected the Platinum Jubilee themed Parade that included a March Past by an OP Division, the first since the Centenary celebrations in 2017.
Tom Copinger-Symes (82-87)
Rory Copinger-Symes
Hugo Mahoney (83-88)
Rory Copinger-Symes (79-83)
Giles Fuchs (78-83)
positive wellbeing and comradeship evoking memories of the original Commandos that were raised during WWII and trained in Scotland. In honour of past and present Commandos we will donate monies to Commando charities for every bottle sold.
Lieutenant Colonel Mike Wade Smith took part in a panel discussion ‘Things I wish I knew before I left school’ as part of the Sixth Form Careers Day in March. Mike hosted a sector specific panel for those interested in joining a uniform career, which was very well attended. He also generously gave up time after the panel discussion to share his experiences
Mike Wade Smith (95-00)
27 THE PANGBOURNIAN | OP NEWS
James1990sGreaves (90-95)
Master Mariners in 2013, becoming a Liveryman in 2014. Robin is only the second known OP to be elected Master of the Honorable Company of Master Mariners.
Giles Fuchs, a serial entrepreneur, owner of Office Space in Town, Burgh Island, Gunners Cocktails to name a few, was a keynote speaker at the Sixth Form Careers Day in March. Giles talked to students about the importance of sound family values and of working harder than the competition.
Robin Batt
Giles Fuchs
Nick1980sStephens (80-87)
In March, Nick alongside his sister Jenny Thomas presented one of their father Lionel Stephens’ most treasured possessions to the College. The 'Invicta 1962' Jersey was presented to Lionel Stephens by members of the Old Pangbournian Society on his retirement from the Committee, and was one of his most prized possessions evoking many positive memories of his long association with the College. The Stephens' family presented the jersey to the College for safekeeping, and to inspire future generations of Pangbournians.
Following his retirement from the Royal Marines in 2021, Rory has launched Commando Spirit, an elite flavoured whisky that encourages a culture of
Tom Copinger-Symes
In May Tom Copinger-Symes CBE was promoted to Lieutenant General, on appointment as the Deputy Commander of UK Strategic Command. Deputy Commander’s responsibilities include leading multi-domain integration; developing and delivering the Command Plan, the UK Strategic Command Strategy, programmes and policy; leading the Command’s Health, Safety & Environment Protection activity; and be Strategic Command’s Principal Personnel Officer by representing the Command’s interest with Chief of Defence Personnel on all aspects of the Defence People Programme.
Charlie Rendle
Tommy Alexander
Daniel Whitehead
Tommy Alexander (Q 03-08)
Tom Read-Wilson
Tom Read-Wilson (98-03)
Dr Jess Payne
Daniel has recently returned from delivering an ambulance and aid to Ukraine. Daniel, who chairs the Academy Choir Wimbledon, decided to support the work of local lady Aliya Aralbaeva, who is fundraising to send ambulances and aid to Ukraine. Daniel and his family managed to raise almost £10,000 to purchase and fill “Sunny” taking her over 1000 miles to Poland, where she was then taken over the border to Ukraine.
In the Spring, Dr Jess Payne featured in Channel 4 documentary series Emergency. After the London bombings in 2005, a world-leading emergency trauma service was set up in the capital. The new TV series followed the team of first responders, critical care doctors and surgeons who came to the rescue.
Dr2000sJessPayne (97-02)
In July, Tommy participated in his second Commonwealth Games, playing as Goalkeeper for Scottish Hockey as they came 9th. Tommy performed well including a man of the match performance as they drew 5-5 with New Zealand.
Mike Wade Smith
In August, Barney participated in a charity rugby 7s tournament at Braintree Rugby Club. Barney’s shirt was adorned with Simon Fookes’ (83-90) name, who sadly passed away in 2019. Barney still plays at Braintree RC and commented that Simon was “much loved and is still very much remembered.”
Barney Stinton
Beverley Cross's obituary, as published in "The Old Pangbournian Record: Volume One", is reproduced below. For his part, Tom Read Wilson stole the tv programme with a marvellously pitched and engaging performance recalling many of Dame Maggie's most famous roles and acting peaks with enormous gusto and verve.
Daniel Whitehead (83-90)
Barney Stinton (90-97)
Two OPs of widely differing vintage appeared prominently in the Channel 5 documentary "The Marvellous Maggie Smith: A Celebration." One was Dame Maggie's second husband, playwright Beverley Cross (44-49) who died in 1998. The other, described by the programme as an "actor and fan," was Tom Read Wilson (98-03).
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Charlie2010s Rendle (05-10)
In July, Lieutenant Charlie Rendle visited the Falkland Islands with 2 PARA as part of their commemorations for the 40th Anniversary of the Falklands Conflict. Charlie was Chief of Macquarie, Captain of Boats and Guard Commander before going to Durham University. Charlie also took part in Operation Pitting, the evacuation of Kabul last year.
with a number of pupils who were particularly interested in a career in the Army.
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Georgia Misson (07-12)
She won two gold medals at her debut regatta in Gavirate, Italy in May. These were swiftly followed by her first Rowing World Cup gold medal in Belgrade, Serbia at the end of May. Frankie also competed in the recent European Championships in Munich, Germany, winning another gold and helping Great Britain take second place in the medal table behind the hosts. You may have seen her interviewed live on BBC2 by Sir Matthew Pinsent, which she said was almost as nerve-racking as the race itself!
Frankie Allen (far right)
Anna Wilson (05-10)
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THE PANGBOURNIAN | OP NEWS
Rory Harris (11-16)
Anna
With the pandemic stopping international touch rugby for 3 years, the squad had been training for the tournament for a long time. They built a strong team culture, skills and fitness base. With 12 games over 5 days, the tournament was a big test of physical and mental resilience.
Larry took part in a panel discussion ‘Things I wish I knew before I left school’ as part of the Sixth Form Careers Day in March. His insight included a call for pupils to be both ‘interested and interesting’ when networking with others in the workplace, and to not shrink away from taking up opportunities when they are offered.
Anna recently represented England for the first time at the Touch Rugby Euros. She admitted to feeling excited, nervous and inspired by the Lionesses!
Patrick Bamforth (07-14) & Will Broom (08-13)
In May, whilst travelling in Panama as part of his role with shipping firm Monjasa, Patrick met up with Will Broom who is working on board the cruise ship Queen Elizabeth operated by the Cunard Line, owned by Monjasa client Carnival. Will is currently serving as Second Officer.
PatrickWilsonBamforth
Georgia Misson
Rory Harris (far left)
Frankie is off to Racice in Czech Republic in late September to compete in the highlight of the international rowing calendar, The World Rowing Championships, racing against the best crews in the world. Off the water Frankie is studying physiotherapy at Oxford Brookes University.
Will BroomLarry Howard
Francesca2020s
At Henley Royal Regatta in June, Rory stormed to victory in the Prince of Wales Cup racing for Leander Club. The quad beat local neighbours Reading University. Leander stormed out of the starting blocks and led from start to finish, always increasing their lead to win with an easy verdict.
Allen (15-20)
At the Sixth Form Careers Day in March, Georgia gave an inspiring and informative keynote speech about the world of work pupils will soon be entering. One theme that came through most strongly was the need to be adaptable and flexible in your expectations and where your career may take you.
Lawrence Howard (05-11)
Former Head of Girls Boats, Frankie Allen has enjoyed a successful first season competing internationally with the Great Britain rowing team in the PR3Mix4+ boat.
Golf Society Charlie Parry (H 81-85)
Treasurer Tarka Duhalde (S 95-98)
Tim Hamilton (H 96-01) &MagazinePangbournianNews Matt Allen
Charles Pettit (Buenos Aires)
Geoff Popple (Cape Town)
Argentina
Australia Paddy Evelegh (Perth)
Alex Heaton (Melbourne)
Yacht Club Peter Kewish (Q 84-89)
1980s William Skinner (Q 82-87)
Vice President Merrick Rayner (Q 68-73)
Elected Members John Fisher (I 68-73), Larry Howard (Q 05-11), Theodore Isaacs (PJ 78-85), Claire Morphy (S 90-92), David Nicholson (Q 64-68), Mike Nicholson (Q 57-61), Andrew Scott-Priestley (I 58-62), William Skinner (Q 82-87), Jonathan Spencer (Q 73-77)
2000s Paul Lawrence (Q 04-08)
1990s Claire Morphy (S 90-92)
ArchivistCollege Sue Carpenter
1970s Phillip Plato (H 73-78)
Canada James Mackenzie (Vancouver)
New Zealand
College Contacts Head Relations&DevelopmentofAlumni
South Africa
City / GroupLondon Robin Batt (S 61-64)
Uganda Andrew Nzeyi
Charles Bown (Chicago)
Society is seeking to establish regional UK groups, if you would like to act as a representative, please contact Phillip Plato at phillip@platoestates.com
Nick Gillette (California)
Robin Paine (S 55-58)
Notes: Decade Representatives encourage fellow OPs to attend events, plan decade-specific events, and act as a link to the OP Society Committee. In you are interested in representing the 1950s or 2020s, please email Phillip Plato at phillip@platoestates.com
OP Society Committee
Malaysia Alex Tilley
Shaun Maynard (Johannesburg)
Richard Shuttleworth (H 57-62)
Notes: OP Overseas Representatives act as a point of contact for OPs visiting their area. Occasionally they organise events. If you live abroad and would like to take on this role, please email Phillip Plato at phillip@
Inplatoestates.comaddition,theOP
Geoff Rae (Brisbane)
Cyprus Louis Carrel
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Chairman Phillip Plato (H 73-77)
President Mark Dumas (Q 64-68)
1950s Vacant
Ian Williams (I 61-63)
OP Clubs & Groups
OP Decade Representatives
2010s Larry Howard (Q 05-11)
Military Group (MOPs) D P Holloway (PJ 94-99)
Roger Pike (Sydney)
Graham Jex
United States
OP Overseas Representatives
Over 60’s Group Mark Dumas (Q 64-68)
Honorary Vice Presidents Robin Knight (H 56-61)
2020s Vacant
Gyles Thornely
THECommittee(Colorado)PANGBOURNIAN|OPCOMMITTEE
1960s David Nicholson (Q 64-68)
1940s Courteney Edenborough (Q 45-48)
Secretary Adam Lewis (H 99-01)
The medal and watch combined had been predicted to fetch between £4,000£5,000. Following substantial pre-sale interest, several bidders contested the auction. Ultimately, the OP group prevailed at a cost of £21,896.
16 of the 30 donors joined Phillip in presenting the Medal to the College, followed by lunch in Devitt House. It was an excellent occasion that will be remembered for a long time. We were particularly delighted to be joined by members of the Bown family who were delighted to see the medal returned home.
Phillip Plato speaking at the lunch in Devitt House
In September last year a group of Old Pangbournians, led by Phillip Plato, ensured that the unique Medal awarded
King's MedalReturns
On Sunday 27 February Phillip Plato (73-77), Chairman of the Old Pangbournian Society and Guest of Honour at College Sunday, presented the 1936 King Edward VIII Gold Medal to the College. Phillip took the
The medal, the only one awarded at the College during the brief 326-day reign of King Edward VIII, came up for auction at an international coins, medals and watches sale organised by Dix Noon Webb on September 7 2021 together with an Elder Brethren of Trinity House gold watch, also presented to Bown.
Phillip Plato had also organised for the medal, medal case and watch to be mounted in an elegant presentation box.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | KING'S MEDAL
to the then Chief of College George Launchbury Bown (32-36) would be returned to Pangbourne College on permanent loan.
Unique 1936 King Edward VIII Gold Medal formally presented to the College.
Phillip Plato presents the Gold Medal to Chief of College Emily Cox
opportunity to address the pupils on parade and spectators, before presenting the medal to Chiefs of College Emily Cox and Rory Hogan.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent, cousin to Her Majesty The Queen and President of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, was this year’s Guest of Honour at the special 40th Anniversary National Remembrance and Thanksgiving Service at The Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel, Pangbourne College on Sunday 12 June.
Falklands3240years on
Among those present on Sunday 12 June were Pangbourne Falklands veterans including Admiral Sir Michael Layard, Rear Admiral Jeremy Sanders, Lieutenant Colonel Ewen Southby-Tailyour, and Commander Andrew Gordon-Lennox who were involved in the Falklands
Duke, to chatting to guests over coffee, to ushering them to their places in Chapel and helping with the collection in aid of the Chapel, to leading the worship in the choir in the service, to being involved in a Falklands stone ceremony at the cairn, to serving food and drink at the lunch afterwards.
Campaign. Thirteen were decorated for their contribution and four were serving on vessels lost to enemy action.
By Alexandra Garnier
With so many Falklands veterans, bereaved Falklands families, and supporters of the Chapel (including former Pangbourne College parents) wishing to attend this year’s service
More than 130 pupils and staff were involved in hosting this important occasion at the College which included a seated finger-buffet lunch in a large marquee on Devitt Lawn after the service. Dressed in their smartest school uniform (No.1), pupils’ roles were varied. They ranged from welcoming The
Forty years on, a thousand people gathered at the Chapel to mark the end of the Falklands War on 14 June 1982 and to remember the 255 British military personnel, 649 Argentines, and three British civilians who lost their lives.
A thousand people gathered at the Chapel to mark the end of the Falklands War.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent
The Chapel was opened by The Queen in March 2000 and since that year there has been an annual service of remembrance and thanksgiving on the Sunday nearest to 14 June 1982, the day of the liberation of the Falkland Islands.
The Head, Mr Thomas Garnier, said: ‘The Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel is a ‘living’ memorial to those individuals who paid the ultimate sacrifice in 1982 for the freedom of the Falkland Islanders. As a school community we use it on a daily basis in term time and it is a privilege and honour annually in June to host those who suffered and continue to suffer as a result of that conflict. We hope that the service and lunch afterwards are one means by which those who lost loved ones and those who fought can know some comfort and hope as they continue to come to terms with their loss and the experiences of that war.’
The Duke of Kent added one more Falkland Islands stone to the cairn.
At these, flowers have been arranged by former Pangbourne College parents, Mrs Sadie Clare and Mrs Sue Hollebone, and placed by the Wall of Remembrance and below the Falklands Window at the front of the Chapel.
Chair is Phillip Plato. He and his wife, Barbara, were also present on Sunday.
After the service, The Duke of Kent added one more Falkland Islands stone to the cairn to the north of the Chapel. This was given to him by Senior Scholar Peter Garnier (Upper Sixth, S) and the short ceremony was overseen by retiring Chapel trustee and Falklands veteran Major General Alastair Bruce.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | FALKLANDS 40 YEARS ON
The cairn was the idea of General Bruce and was first created in 2007 for the 25th anniversary of the end of the War. After the special service that year The Queen added a stone. The three albatrosses which ‘fly’ in the western garden of the Chapel were also added that year and made by Falklands veteran and sculptor Mark Coreth.
OnYouTube.hisarrival at the College, Heads of School Rory Hogan (Upper Sixth, H) and Emily Cox (Upper Sixth, I) were among the welcoming party for The Duke of Kent. The Duke was also met by his former equerry Brigadier Charles Page (one of the trustees of the Chapel) and Mrs Amanda Page; the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Mr James Puxley, and Mrs Deborah Puxley; Falklands veterans Admiral The Lord West and Major General Jeff Mason (Chair of the Chapel Trustees), Mrs Lucy Mason, The Head Mr Thomas Garnier and Mrs Alexandra Garnier, as well as the Chaplain The Reverend Neil Jeffers and Mrs Anna Jeffers.
and following two years without an in-person service due to the pandemic, a large tented nave had to be added to the front of the Chapel. This work was overseen by the Bursarial team led by Mrs Iona Sadler. Additionally, audiovisual equipment was added internally to enable the service to be broadcast live on
The service was led by Pangbourne College Chaplain The Reverend Neil Jeffers. He was supported by The Right Reverend Hugh Nelson, Bishop of St Germans and Bishop to the Forces, and The Right Reverend Paul Mason, Roman Catholic Bishop to the Forces. Bishop Nelson gave the address and the blessing, Bishop Mason led the prayers. In his own words, Bishop Nelson said: ‘We will remember honestly and truthfully. We will look to the past in order to live wisely into the future.’ ‘We will remember them.’
In his vote of thanks during lunch, Major General Jeff Mason thanked them and Mr Richard Stone, another former parent, for their service to the Chapel over so many years. They, along with Mrs Alexandra Garnier (Head’s Wife), were involved in overseeing flowers in the Chapel from 2005 to 2020. They were a part of three flower festivals in the Chapel including one in May 2007 for the 25th anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands and one in October 2017 for the centenary of the College.
Over the last year plaques have been added to the Memorial Garden, which is near to the front of the Chapel. One of these was donated by the Old Pangbournian Society whose current
The congregation sang ‘The Old Hundredth’, ‘I vow to Thee’, ‘All my hope on God is founded’, the National Anthem, and The Falklands Hymn. The latter was written especially for this annual service and composed by former Pangbourne College Director of Music Ralph Allwood. An ensemble of the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Collingwood accompanied the hymns and played the fanfare elements of ‘The Old Hundredth’, ‘All my hope on God is founded’, and the National Anthem.
The College Choir directed by Mr Chris McDade sang two anthems accompanied by Mr Ian Hockley on the organ: Charles Woods’s ‘O Thou the Central Orb’ and the late Christopher Tambling’s Seafarers’ Prayer, ‘O Almighty God’. The latter was written for former pupil Peter Tambling (1950-53) to mark his 40 year career at sea.
Over 130 pupils and staff were involved in hosting this important occasion at the College.
In the Autumn the College will be marking the tenth anniversary of the completion of the construction of the current St George Division. Co-education began officially in 1995, although by then there were already six girls studying in the sixth form.
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The Good Ship St
GeorgeAfteranumberofyearswithonlydaypupils,September1997sawthirtythreegirlsadmittedtotheCollegehousedinCroftHouse,abuildingthatplayedavarietyofrolesovertheyears,andwassubsequentlysoldanddemolished.HowevertheCollege’sassociationwiththenameStGeorgeandtheoriginsof
RYS The 'St George'
From the ‘Pioneers’ of the early ’90’s to todays staff
the St George Division owe more to the sea than the land.
When the Nautical College Pangbourne opened its doors in 1917 to train cadets for the Merchant Navy it was obvious to all concerned that practical experience at sea would be an essential part of the training. The search began for a suitable vessel to become a floating classroom and in the spring of 1918 the steam yacht St George was purchased. Built in Leith in 1890 for a sum of £50,000, when she was commissioned she was one of the largest yachts in the Royal Yacht Squadron. The yacht was originally built for a wealthy industrialist E. J. Wythes of Copped Hall in Essex who sailed her around the world on her maiden voyage, a journey
St George was opened by Olympic gold medalist rower Katherine Grainger MBE
Unveiling of St George with Devitt Moore flag
Twenty-one days later the St George arrived in Gran Canaria where the boys played cricket against the locals and attended a number of dances as well as hosting their own dance on board ship. The return journey to Plymouth was completed in just fourteen days.
Thea Swan speaking to Katharine Grainger
The St George made five voyages during her time with the College but she proved too expensive to run and incurred large debts. In 1922 she was put up for sale and was later broken up in 1928, however her name lives on and today’s St George continues to encourage and educate
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Chloe Nelson and Phoebe Hessian with Katherine Grainger's Olympic London 2012 Gold Medal
On the 10th December 1919 the first batch of cadets arrived at the ship to undertake their year of sea training. The St George was due to begin her
varnished or painted and then attention was turned to turning below decks into working accommodation for up to one hundred cadets. The palatial drawing and dining rooms were stripped of their beautiful fittings and turned into a sleeping mess room for the cadets. Hammocks were deemed unsuitable as they would take up too much room so canvas cots were purchased that could be folded up and stored during the day. Next the engines were overhauled and electric light fitted throughout.
maiden voyage for the College early in the new year but bad weather delayed her departure and it wasn’t until the end of March 1920 that she finally set sail from Plymouth. It’s fair to say that the first few days of the voyage were quite an eye opener for the young cadets. The weather turned again and no study was possible as most of the boys were too sick to attend. Eventually the days settled into a pattern of marine studies and practical experience, Captain Blair was under huge pressure to make this aspect of the training a success, which he achieved.
The current St George Division was opened on 20th October 2012 by Dame Katherine Grainger, who had only recently won a Rowing Gold Medal at the London Olympics. She would go on to win five Olympic medals and eight World Championship medals. A fantastic opening ceremony saw a giant College ensign flag draped across the building, bringing together St George girls from across the generations.
More details about the occasion to celebrate the ten-year anniversary of the opening of St George will be shared on the Pangbournian Portal.
Thomas Garnier, Headmaster, giving opening speech and welcoming everyone and guest of honour, Katharine Grainger
Caroline Bond recalls that when she joined the staff in 1994, “the College was certainly a very macho, maledominated environment with very few female members of staff and a handful of girls who were affectionately known as ‘pioneers’. Those pioneers were certainly made of strong stuff, and demonstrated
THE PANGBOURNIAN | THE GOOD SHIP ST GEORGE
In the decade since the new St George Division was completed, the role of girls at the College has continued to strengthen since the trailblazers Claire Morphy (Whitehead) and Charlotte Butterworth (Drake) arrived at the school in 1990.
huge resilience and determination in those early days” Caroline would go on to say that, “the arrival of girls had a profound impact on, and helped to precipitate, a more open and egalitarian atmosphere with an emphasis on the College’s important Flag Values, especially integrity, kindness and moral courage.”
Pangbourne students although thankfully in far calmer waters.
Olympic Gold medallist Katherine Grainger, guest of honour, cutting the ribbon with Chief Cadet Captain of St George 2012-13, Kayleigh Hutchinson, and other girls of St George, looking on
has been welcoming the famous, and infamous, since 1929 with the likes of Edward and Mrs Simpson, Agatha Christie, Noel Coward, and Winston Churchill. It was their secret idyll and
Ihideaway.boughta
Love made me buy Burgh Island although it’s probably the hardest project I’ve ever worked on. It has an incredible tidal island location opposite the small village of Bigbury-on-Sea, South Devon. The spectacular iconic Art Deco hotel
Noismananisland
majority share of it back in April 2018 when the hotel was running with only 50% occupancy and needed very careful renovation and development everywhere you looked. With operational, management and staff issues I had to start from the ground up
Giles Fuchs, a self-confessedserialentrepreneur
From Alice in Wonderland office spaces to an iconic island hotel he’s always brought Pangbournian values to the business world.
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‘I fell in love the moment I saw it’
The stunning Art Deco ballroom
The mysterious Mermaid Pool Step back in time in the decadent Palm Court
to restore it to its glamorous and highly luxurious heyday. Having become friends with the previous owners, Tony and ‘B’ Porter, I also managed to acquire their massive collection of original Art Deco furniture and other period pieces adding to our existing collection, which is one of the largest in the UK. Nowadays we are booked up for months in advance. But with something as unique as this island hotel you never really own it, I always say that you’re only ever the custodian.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | INTERVIEW WITH GILES FUCHS
Confer and triumph. Keep talking to your partners, family - it makes you sparkle. You may not end up with your original idea but something even better.
Even arriving is a unique experience
“Giles,40
the College on a regular basis to mentor the 6th Form to try and give something back. I’m often asked about tips for success so listed below are what I consider some real essentials for budding entrepreneurs. Although ‘follow your gut instincts’ has long been my personal mantra.
In 2010 I joined forces with my sister Niki and launched OSiT (Office Space in Town). Our first office opened the following year in the Euston Tower, London, using leased space. A year later we were able to start buying our own buildings. This was pivotal as it turned us from being a serviced office manager into a property company - and a successful one. We had the freedom to design and fit out our buildings to stand out from the crowd. This included themes from Monopoly to Alice in Wonderland. Our first deal was achieved with hurt money but a big payday enabled us to expand (and buy Burgh Island). Today the business is valued at £200m. Not surprisingly my parents are very pleased with both Niki and me.
Pick a good business partner. Choose them wisely as they need to complement what you bring to the business. For example, I’m no good on detail but my sister is. All my partners are people I trust - from my family or Old Pangbournians.
Don’t try to hatch a china egg. Make sure you start with a good idea that’s really worth pursuing. It’s an old family saying that makes sense the more you think about it.
Always have total integrity. It’s a trait I’m proud of and if you don’t operate with integrity it could come back to haunt you. As Forbes said,”Success will come and go, integrity is forever.”
I hope you’re good with your Myhands.”father’s
I knew that I wanted to become an estate agent. So the next day I knocked on the biggest estate agent chain in Northamptonshire to ask for a job. The three years I spent working for that estate agency taught me everything about business life - how to sell, marketing, systems, and most importantly, how to interact with people and keep them calm. In 1987, at the age of 21 I opened my own firm of estate agents with a friend. It was a success and other profitable ventures followed including a disaster recovery company. I did say that I was a serial entrepreneur!
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words were a massive size 12 kick up the rear. I’d failed my A-levels. I was only interested in sport those days, learning jarred with me but I had gained a great deal of other skills at Pangbourne and enjoyed my time there from 197883. Resilience, honesty, integrity and confidence were instilled in me. It’s part of the Pangbourne DNA. It’s in the walls. It’s a reason that I have gone into business with fellow Pangbournians as they share the same values.
Tips for budding Pangbourne Ientrepreneurs.lovedmyPangbournedaysandvisit
Shaking up cocktails
It's now available in cans as the classic Gunner Saintthe long, non-alcoholic drink with a grown-up kick, and we've also recently launched Gunner Sinner. It’s the Gunner Saint mixed with a shot and a half of dark rum for a little more punch. We are hailing it as the Dark & Stormy of the 21st Century, all the same wonderful natural ingredients with aged dark rum. All you need to do is pour over ice, grab a wedge of lime, swizzle and enjoy, the perfect "sundowner" for an evening on the terrace, or in your favourite place. Keep an eye out for our new range!
THE PANGBOURNIAN | INTERVIEW WITH GILES FUCHS
"I’m really excited by my new baby which is going to be bigger than anything else I’ve done. A Gunner is a very British refreshingly sparkling non-alcoholic cocktail of ginger beer, ginger ale, Angostura bitters and lime.
It was discovered in 1842 to quench the thirst of the expats in the Far East. It was then introduced to the home nation and has gone on to be served in sports clubhouses, pubs, bars and restaurants ever since.
Show returns! Classic Car
On Saturday 4 June, the Classic Car Show returned after a two-year hiatus and ended with a spectacular flypast from a Lancaster Bomber.
Tom continues, “We have been very lucky over the past four years to have been backed by local businesses such as H. R. Owen dealership, who are based
A spectacular Lancaster Bomber flypast
We have also been supported by Kingdom Coffee which provides refreshments and cream teas throughout the day, with all profits donated to the charities. Further thanks goes to the Pangbourne Village Silver Band, who entertained our visitors throughout the
Held on the grounds of the College, around 2,500 spectators were able to get up close to some beautiful classic cars, scooters and motorbikes. The show is organised by Assistant Head, Boarding, Tom Cheney who said: “After a two year gap, I was delighted to bring this event back to the community. We had over 250 cars on display and raised over £5,000 which has been split between the Footsteps Foundation which supports children with neurological issues, and The Nabugabo Learning Community in Uganda.”
afternoon.”THEPANGBOURNIAN | CLASSIC CAR SHOW RETURNS
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From old classics (above) to modern supercars (below), there was something for everyone
in Pangbourne Village and have always brought a great selection of new Aston Martins, Bentleys and Lamborghinis for spectators to look at and sit inside.
College staff, parents and ex-parents at the school all gave up their time and helped with the show’s organisation and running, while classic car owners came from Bristol, Stroud, Chichester and other places around the country to display their vehicles.”
‘The next step for all the leavers requires the courage to be the best version of ourselves.” Emily
The Prizegiving ceremony in a marquee on Devitt Lawn followed the Parade, during which, amongst other prizes, The Queen’s Gold Medals were awarded to
After a pared-down Founders’ Day in 2021 in which only the Upper Sixth students and their parents attended, there was an even greater sense of jubilance to this Founders’ Day; our first full one since 2019.
Mr Roberts went on to describe the more recent memorial service which was held in the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel at Pangbourne College in June. This event was attended by His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent and Mr Roberts was particularly proud of the way in which the College “put its best foot forward with pupils and staff helping to make it a memorable day for the veterans.”
Over 1,000 family members, staff, and Old Pangbournians (OPs) were there to watch the Parade which was observed and inspected by our Guest of Honour, First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE ADC. Following weeks of rehearsals, the pupils did themselves proud, especially in the trooping of the colour. This new colour was presented by Her Majesty The Queen to the College as part of our centenary celebrations in 2017.
There were a number of speeches during the ceremony. Mr Patrick Roberts, Chair of the Board of Governors, praised the staff and pupils for their efforts in adapting to the challenges in recent years. He also reflected on the recent memorial services which have commemorated the 40th anniversary of the end of the Falkland Islands War.
Founders'44 Day2022
He spoke about the weekend event in October 2021, when around a hundred OPs and guests attended a two-day event in Portsmouth on 15 and 16 October designed to remember the Falklands Conflict and to recognise the extraordinary Old Pangbournian contribution.
‘The friends, memories, and most importantly the characteristics that Pangbourne has taught us will be ingrained in us for years to come’ Rory Mr Roberts concluded by thanking the Board of Governors for all of their hard work over the last year, with particular thanks to the retiring Governors, Dr Matilda Oppenheimer and Bex Tear.
the Chief Cadet Captains of the College (CCCCs), Emily Cox and Rory Hogan.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | FOUNDERS' DAY 2022
Guard of Honour take centre stage
Last minute adjustments
Mr Garnier finished his speech by thanking the College community and offering a fond farewell to three longserving members of staff: Mrs Harriet Paynter (eight years), Mr Daniel Paynter (10 years), and Mrs Vivienne Richardson (20 years).
Rory Hogan reflected on what the Pangbourne community is and what it means to him, and Emily Cox, having lost her voice earlier in the week, battled through to explain how Pangbourne has allowed her and her fellow students to be the best versions of themselves.
‘Our commitment is to be a caring community which enables young people to flourish by inspiring learning and developing character’ Thomas Garnier
Our CCCCs also gave eloquent speeches about their experiences of Pangbourne.
In Mr Garnier’s speech, interspersed with some physics-related jokes on the weather for the benefit of the First Sea Lord, a fellow physics graduate, he referred to the ways in which parents and families have re-engaged with community life in the College. He also made reference to the return of public exams, school trips, inter-school sporting fixtures, and live performances from the Music and Drama departments. He reflected on the global issues facing our community and highlighted how the College’s Flag Values, and focus on leadership, will help to provide pupils with the tools they need to overcome them.
As is traditional, ‘We Are Sailing’ was the final piece of the day. This year, eight Upper Sixth musicians in the Marching Band, including Drum Major Edward Smith, put down their instruments and joined their peer group at the western end of the Parade Ground.
Always a very poignant and moving part of Beat Retreat for Upper Sixth students and their families, this aspect of this year’s ceremony seemed even more so after the two difficult pandemic years we have all experienced and the two years when this ceremony could not be done in person (2020) or as a whole school community (2021).
Together they formed up in a line three abreast and, for the final time, were led off the College stage by this year’s CCCCs, Emily and Rory, in front of Mr Garnier (on the dais), their families, and the whole College community. At the College Drive, they marched through a Guard of Honour before celebrating their school careers with hugs, a glass of champagne, and tears.
It’s always an emotional day
“Two years ago Jenny Crossley [CCCC, 2019-20] … in her Founders’ Day speech suggested that Pangbourne provides courage; that the next step for all the leavers of 2022 requires courage, the courage to take the next step and continue to be the best version of ourselves whatever walk of life we find ourselves in.” Emily Cox, Chief Cadet Captain of College, 2021-22
Some time passed before Upper Sixth students made their way back to the Parade Ground to take part in the tradition of lid throwing and champagne throwing under the flagpole. All an expression of celebrating their time at Pangbourne.
After a quick, warm-up break involving tea and coffee for guests, Beat Retreat took place in front of the Upper Sixth who, like last year, entered the stage from Devitt House. It included magnificent displays from The Guard and Marching Band.
As usual, it was wonderful to see so many OPs, old and new join in with the celebrations.
After the official proceedings had concluded, pupils and their families were
“My fellow Upper Sixth peers and I will be a part of the Pangbourne community for life. The friends, memories, and most importantly the characteristics that Pangbourne has taught us will be ingrained in us for years to come.” Rory Hogan, Chief Cadet Captain of College, 2021-22
The final speech after the prizegiving presentation came from our Guest of Honour, First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE ADC.
“Our commitment is to be a caring community which enables young people to flourish by inspiring learning and developing character through a relevant and adventurous curriculum that provides challenge, but for a purpose: so that our pupils can make a positive difference to the world, to be influencers for good, recognising that leadership is a function of how we act rather than of the position we hold.” Mr Thomas Garnier, The Head, 2005-
While Evening Hymn and Sunset were played, Mr Garnier on the dais led the whole school community in turning themselves towards the flagpole. For the last time this academic year and for the final time of the Upper Sixth students’ school careers, the College Ensign was lowered.
46
Upper Sixth marching for the final time
As the evening drew in, the Upper Sixth students and their families were treated to the Leavers’ Ball which was organised
In his letter to Mr Garnier, our Guest of Honour, First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key summed up the day as follows: "There is a super feel to the school community (even allowing for the fact it was the last day of the academic year, and the mood was one of celebration), and I was reminded - again - how much talent and energy the young of today have. As I said to you at the time, I was hugely impressed by the parade and the standard of drill; great to see the naval linkage so proudly invested in at the College."
Friendships forged on the parade ground
THE PANGBOURNIAN | FOUNDERS' DAY 2022
treated to drinks in Divisions, followed by their picnic lunches on White’s Playing Field. As usual, it was wonderful to see so many OPs, old and new join in with the celebrations.
by the CCCCs’ parents, Mrs Rachael Cox and Mrs Sophie Hogan, along with a Committee of Upper Sixth parents. The theme of the event was ‘Heaven on Earth’ and included pre-dinner drinks in Drake Marquee followed by a twocourse dinner in Drake Hall. Guests enjoyed a surprise visit of the ‘Secret Singers’ who entertained guests with impromptu popular songs. They danced the night away with DJ Sam Butler, who is also an OP, providing the tunes.
The OP Society put together an impressive team for the Cricket match which took place on Big Side throughout the afternoon. The match was played in a 20/20 format and the College XI batted first, setting a challenging total of 140 runs. The overcast conditions eventually saw a couple of rain showers, one of which interrupted play just after the College concluded their innings and just before the OP XI went into bat. However, the showers soon passed and did nothing to dampen the spirits of a very good humoured game.
They marched through a Guard of Honour before celebrating their school careers with hugs, a glass of champagne, and tears.
Leavers' Ball 2022
Morgan
AwardedPRIZESforexemplary academic performance and effort throughout the YEARyear7:
Outstanding Endeavour: Sophie Bennett and Julia Yuille
FORM
KEITH EVANS PRIZE: Ida Riggall
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN’S GOLD MEDALS: Emily Cox Rory Hogan
YEAR 10: Imogen Ambrose and Frederick Stokes Outstanding Endeavour: Kit Hayes-Newington and Paige Mason
49
HEAD’S CUP: Illawarra
EXPRESSIVE ARTS PRIZES:
NIGEL
HEAD’S Butterworth Crane
PORT JACKSON: Liam Turnbull
Prize Winners
MUSIC PERFORMANCE PRIZE: Felix Nelson OPEN Megan Fergusson
PRIZES: Edward
SPORTS CUP: Harbinger
HEAD’S HARBINGER:TANKARDS: Llewellyn
Alice Moody Ryne Robson Nora CallumShieldsWray
Olivia
YEAR 11: Oliver Edwards, Eva Griffin and Thomasin
ST GEORGE: Charlotte Richards
OLD PANGBOURNIAN PRIZE: Callum Bond
As is tradition, on the day before Founders’ Day, the Chief Cadet Captains of the College, Rory Hogan and Emily Cox, laid a wreath on the grave of the younger of our two school founders, Sir Philip Devitt. Sir Philip was passionate about our school and committed to making it a lasting memorial to his father, Sir Thomas Lane Devitt, who died in 1923.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | FOUNDERS' DAY 2022
CENTENARYHOLLEBONEPRIZE: Eva Griffin
MACQUARIE: George Young
ReubenOutstandingMunroEndeavour:Hepplethwaite,Tara Hogan and Eve Powell
JUDE MEMORIAL PRIZE: Peter Garnier
MARCUS GRAHAM ART PRIZE: Maria Humphreys-Evans
CHRIS MULLINS PRIZE: Jed Ford
HESPERUS: Myles James
DRAMA, THE PROMPT BOOK: Phoebe Curcher
ILLAWARRA: Megan Fergusson
LOWER SIXTH: Bonnie Jackson and Eva Krstikj
AUSTIN ANDERSON PRIZE: Katharine Harper
YEAR 8: Grace Jeffers and Eva Skidmore Outstanding Endeavour: Isaac Henry and Rory Price
YEAR 9: Faith Merry and Theo Stephenson Outstanding Endeavour: Erika Bevis and Ida Riggall
Sadie Partridge and Maisie Stephenson Outstanding Endeavour: Laila Ball and Flora Merry
UPPER SIXTH: Thomas Harvey and Alice Moody Outstanding Endeavour: Jemma Humphreys and Phoebe Key
AMBROSEPRIZES:WHITE PRIZE:
We also competed for the nearest the pin on the 5th hole and the nearest the hole in two shots on the 18th. These are always good side shows to the morning round with the winner of the nearest to the pin being Charlie Parry and the nearest in two was George Gale.
After fuelling up on coffee and bacon rolls and retrieving one wayward buggy from the flower beds by the clubhouse, we all started our morning round competing for the prize of the Presidents Cup. The completed scorecards reflected that it was a challenging course but the overall winner was Ken Jones with 37 stableford points off a handicap of 10.
OP Golf Society
Left: Charlie Parry (81-85) with winner Ken Jones (81-86) Below: Ken Jones holding aloft the President’s Cup
After a feast of a lunch, of which we were pleased our Chairman Phillip Plato was able to join us, we headed back out onto the course to compete for the Simon Broome and Stephen Walker Memorial Foursomes Bowl. This year we competed for this over 12 holes which enabled us to have a more relaxed prize giving ceremony before everybody had to rush off. The afternoon winners of the Memorial Bowl were John Cooke and George Gale.
On the 18 May, 18 members of the OP Golf Society met up for our annual summer meeting at Beaconsfield Golf Club.
OP Club News
THE PANGBOURNIAN | OP CLUB NEWS
Richard Parrett (72-80)
Jake Alexander (14-21)
OP Society Chairman, Phillip Plato, praised both teams and remarked about the light hearted banter between both teams. He added that hopefully, some of those who left the College on that day will feel motivated to play for the OPs next year too.
OP Cricket Club
Hugh Fraser (64-68)
Andy Campbell (80-83)
Hugo Harvey (09-14)
Samuel Gunbie (88-95)
David Lewis (81-85)
Sam Hewick (06-08)
Zac Alexander (Current)
OP Cricket team and the College XI
The overcast conditions eventually saw a couple of rain showers, one of which interrupted play just after the College concluded their innings and just before the OP XI went into bat. However, the showers soon passed and did nothing to dampen the spirits of a very good humoured game.
It was the first time we had played at Beaconsfield GC and we were treated to a great day out, on a fine and challenging course, with excellent hospitality within the clubhouse. The golf society plan to meet up there again on the 7th June 2023.
John Cooke (72-76)
Pip Smitham (64-69)
William Skinner (82-87)
Nigel Ackerman (64-68)
Ollie Hart (07-12)
George Gale (81-85)
Ollie Newcombe (12-17)
Charles Llewellyn (56-61)
The OP Cricket Club gathered on Founders’ Day to play a College XI. The match was played in a 20/20 format and the College XI batted first, setting a challenging total of 140 runs.
Richard Sarsfield-Hall (76-83)
Peter Lowe (81-86)
Charlie Parry (81-85)
The society members who attended our 2022 meeting were:
John Saunders (90-92)
Nick Hebden (90-95)
Jim Field (86-90)
Kris Kemp (04-08)
The College XI setting the OP XI a challenging target with some lusty blows
Christopher Reed (75-80)
Ken Jones (81-86)
Members of the OP XI included:
James Ellis (90-95)
Matthew Arnold (78-85)
Ed Nash (15-20)
Keelboat Training at Queen Mary Sailing Club:
JamesCrew: Minter Peter Kewish Rob FittingRohanMitchellBatraOut
In December, Roedean invited members of the OPYC for a day of keelboat training and racing. A fabulous day was had by all despite the near freezing temperatures and ice cold 20kt wind.
This year we eschewed the rigours of match racing in the Belvidere Cup
ATRYA J80 Racing:
We had spent the previous week worrying about the large high sitting over Northern Europe but on the day in brilliant sunshine the wind gusted
Huge thanks to Roedean for the invitation, QMSC for hosting and the British Keelboat Federation for their excellent training.
OPYC members with hosts Roedean at QMSC at Lymington Haven
The Fitting Out Dinner
Then the lady running the race decided she was getting dizzy and it was time for us to do a downwind start passing all the buoys to starboard. This time we had a superb start and were miles ahead of everyone including Uppingham. We were sitting back admiring our commanding position when we heard the committee boat beeping as each other boat passed it. We had not heard that this race was only one lap so that lead became a 4th. Next race we had a pretty good start and once again it was Uppingham and Pangbourne heading for the first mark with Uppingham having the inside overlap. The crew brought in the kite and pulled sheets tight for a convincing overtake as Uppingham floundered in our wake. We stayed
Saturday 23 April saw members of the OPYC come together for a Fitting Out Dinner. 6 members with guests totalling 14 enjoyed a lovely Fitting Out Dinner at Lymington Haven. 4 boats in attendance, one coming from as far as Hayling Island.
and, showing some solidarity for Peter Kewish’s stint at the helm of the Arrow Trophy organisation, we took part in the ATRYA J80 fleet race at Queen Mary Sailing Club. We had a great crew line up with apprentice bowman Larry Plant and experienced hand Rob Mitchell figuring out what happened with all those bits of string attached to the spinnaker and veteran Finn champion Mike Stringer on the main sheet and helping me (James Minter) with tactical advice. We were racing three other boats from Uppingham, Norwich and Rodean. For some reason Peter had got himself a seat on the Rodean boat…
Dinner:
OP Yacht Club
52
to about 10 knots. Much of the time it was fluky and shifty which made for great racing. Race 1 saw us off with a good start, scraping Uppingham off at the committee boat and rounding the top mark first. As we hoisted the kite, the wind went dead calm and then filled in to help the other boats catch up. We managed to get out of their wind shadow and come second. Race 2, we had a great start but the fleet split behind us and we failed to cover Uppingham who got a lift and passed us at the top mark…but we held onto that for another second. Race 3 followed the same pattern and by now it felt like there were two mini-fleets; us and Uppingham with the two other boats far behind.
That evening a dinner at Royal Harwich Yacht Club. Tudor had recently found some old Cine 8 film at a local boot sale that turned out to contain footage of ‘60s NCP, projected onto the wall of the club bar bringing back many memories. After dinner, Dr Rodney Pell gave an interesting and informative talk on Sheemaun, a gentlemans’ motor yacht, which had served as the College’s training ship in the ‘80s. Dr Pell still owns her and has compiled historic
The last race was, finally, a disaster at the start with appalling decisions made by the helm! Uppingham, ignoring the two other boats pushed us outside the pin end with the spinnaker flying and there was no way to go back into the wind (bear in mind this was another downwind start); So we had to drop spinnaker, tack back upwind to the start and cross the line 30 boat lengths behind. We finished a convincing 4th.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | OP CLUB NEWS
Our result was a disappointing 3rd as we came one point behind Norwich but this really didn’t reflect a fantastic fight with Uppingham. It would have been super close had we not made three simple mistakes. We had dominated the start in every race except the last. Boat speed was good and at times excellent. Our mark rounding had a very seamanlike manner about it. Tactical decisions had been sound apart from a couple of lapses. Our spinnaker work was miraculously good considering neither Rob nor Larry had had any practice.
mistakes wins’ rather than previous depressing episodes where we have left the QM reservoir wondering how to make the boat go. So onwards and upwards and very much looking forward to the Arrow Trophy proper in October.
JamesCrew: Minter Larry Plant Rob InauguralMikeMitchellStringerEast
Saturday 26 June was a day out on a 98’ sailing barge, Thalatta. A trip from Ipswich down the Orwell to Harwich and up the Stour for a very tasty Buffet lunch with wine. Then a gentle sail back. This barge is over 100 years old but was rebuilt 13 years ago. Such a professional and approachable crew too.
ahead all the way around until the final set of marks when, confident that we were close enough to go for the mark we failed to cover Uppingham and they got a huge lift to overtake and once again it was a second place.
Summer Rally:
The Belvedere Cup crew at QMSC
We are now definitely at the level of racing where ‘he who makes the least
Charlotte Butterworth with her Pangbournian Spirit Gin
Coast Meet:
A great time was had by all. What a fantastic inaugural East Coast meet. Thanks go to Tudor Rose for leaving no detail left out.
The Summer Rally under blue skies at Portsmouth
The OPYC Summer Rally began in Portsmouth on Saturday 16 July, a great excuse to crack open the Pangbourne gin. All boats heading to Beaulieu then Yarmouth.
stories of her life and those who sailed and served on her into a book.
years after registration in 1926, the HCMM became the first Guild to be admitted to the ancient fraternity of the Livery of Guildhall after an interval of more than two centuries. Both
By Robin Paine
Completed in 1934, in the years prior to World War II, HMS Wellington served for four years on the New Zealand
Master of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners Captain Robin Batt
considerable achievements at the time and were followed in 1949 by provision of a ship-borne Livery Hall in the shape of the former sloop HMS Wellington, moored within the City boundary at
Galawere
54Six
Thursday 01 September saw 78 OPs & guests on board HQS Wellington for a gala lunch in celebration of Captain Robin Batt (61-64) only the 2nd OP to be appointed Master of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners (HCMM).
Temple Stairs on Victoria Embankment where she has remained to this day.
CelebratingWellingtonaboardLunchHQSCaptainRobinBatt
historic background of maritime endeavour, a limited number were treated to a very special tour and insight into the history of the Merchant Navy by two very knowledgeable OP guides Captain Batt and Captain Stephen Taylor (55-60), past Chairman of the Wellington Trust. From the bell of SS Ohio, a 16,000-ton oil tanker which relieved the blockade of Malta, together with a plethora of models of Merchant and Royal Naval vessels, including a magnificent model
Station, visiting many ports of that country and the British administered islands of the vast South West Pacific. During the 6 years of war Wellington provided escort to 103 convoys on the eastern side of the Atlantic, rescuing many survivors from sunken ships in the Againstprocess.this
Robin Paine making sure everything is in order
Thomas & Alex Garnier with the Lord Mountevans
Coffee and truffles were served prior to the Chairman of the OP Society, Phillip Plato (73-77) proposing the toast to Robin Batt and the HCMM. Phillip started his address by thanking Robin Paine (55-58) for organising the event. He then gave a résumé of Robin Batt’s career leading up to him becoming Master of the HCMM.
By the time the Master sat down there were a multitude of OPs wanting to rise to say something, but the Master sensibly rang the ship’s bell and announced that proceedings were over, but the Wardroom was open.
washed down with copious quantities of very quaffable white and red wine. The Loyal Toast, proposed by the Master, preceded a dessert of Blueberry & Lemon Tart with vanilla ice cream.
of the Cunard Liner RMS Aquitania, to numerous artefacts, ancient charts, paintings (one of which is the only full length portrait ever painted of King Edward VIII) and silver pieces.
Prior to going down to the Courtroom for lunch, The Head, Thomas Garnier, gave a short address. The Courtroom, which was originally the Wellington’s engine room, was elegantly laid out for the magnificent gala lunch. After Grace, said by the Master, those assembled were treated to Smoked Salmon, topped with samphire and citrus dressing, followed by Supreme of Guinea Fowl with a honey and cream sauce, all
A wonderful day had been had by all and, notwithstanding the high spirits of the assembled company, lunch nevertheless finished on the same day.
At noon everyone assembled on the Quarterdeck to enjoy wonderful views of the Thames for a pre-lunch reception. The OPs ranged in age from the two most junior, Georgie Paterson (14-21) and Poppy Wright (15-21) both 19 to Courtney Edenborough (45-48) 91, a span of 72 years, and the College date range was from 1945 to 2021 a span of 76 years.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | HQS WELLINGTON
OPs & their guests were treated to a delicious lunch in the Courtroom, formerly the engine room
Event organiser
‘I’m feeling really happy. I achieved the results that I wanted and gained a place at the university that I wanted, so I’m feeling ecstatic really. I’m looking forward to what comes in the future.’
CallumGeography.says:
The percentage of A*-B grades achieved at A Level was 57%, whilst the percentage of Distinction*-Distinction for BTEC grades was 87%. Those that chose to do an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) during their Lower Sixth year achieved 100% A* - C. The vast majority of our students will be progressing to their firm-choice universities, with 48% of students going to Russell Group or similar higher tier universities. One of the many pupils who celebrated on results day was Senior Scholar Callum Bond, who achieved A*A*AA across four A Levels. Callum studied Geography, History, Politics, and Religious Studies and will be accepting a place at the University of St Andrews to study
After a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Sixth Form public examinations returned this year. Although this was the first time that the current cohort had sat in conventional exam conditions, the results achieved reflect the determination and diligence of our pupils, despite the pressures of the last few years.
Exam success
Callum Wray with Mr Andy Sumner
56Campus Life
Other high performers include Senior Scholar Peter Garnier who achieved A*A*A* in his A Levels and is going to study Maths at the University of Exeter, and Emily Walne who gained A*AB in her Business, Photography and Psychology A Levels. Emily said: 'I'm so happy with my results, I was actually quite surprised. I'm taking a gap year before heading off to Newcastle University to study Marketing and Business which was my first choice'.
Individual GCSE success stories include Eva who achieved nine Grade 9s. She says, ‘I’m kind of shocked! The biggest surprise has been achieving a Grade 9 in Maths as I struggled with the subject in Primary school but worked really hard to achieve the best I could.’ Eva will be returning to Pangbourne College in September to study Biology, Chemistry and French A Levels.
Mark Seccombe, Deputy Head Academic says: 'Whilst the last two years have challenged our pupils in numerous ways, they should be incredibly proud of all that they have achieved, given the circumstances. I am impressed with the continuous dedication and attitude of our students, which has been reflected in their results. My sincere thanks goes to our academic and pastoral staff who have supported our pupils during this challenging period, and I congratulate our pupils who have demonstrated enormous industry and resilience to achieve what they have.'
Cameron Spiers and Myles James
Congratulations to Eva Griffin who achieved nine Grade 9s
Joy on GCSE results day
THE PANGBOURNIAN | CAMPUS LIFE
We were similarly delighted with our GCSE results with our pupils achieving a pass rate of 94% (Grades 9-4). 47% of the Grades awarded were between 9-7. We are particularly proud of the increase in Grade nines which are nearly double the number awarded in 2019.
Eight Pangbourne College crews rowed at this year’s National Schools’ Regatta at the Olympic venue of Dorney Lake.
58Gold
In the final, the coxed four blasted out of the blocks gaining a 2-second lead which they held for the rest of the race absorbing several attacks by St George’s College, Weybridge. Gold and the Hedsor Cup was in the College’s hands! The trophy was collected from former Master-in-Charge of Rowing at the College Mr Tim Parker.
Mr Follett (coach) with the Senior Boys' Coxed Four and their National Schools' Regatta Trophy and Gold Medals
‘With four ‘A’ Finals, three genuine medal challenges and a Gold it was one of Pangbourne’s strongest performances as a club in recent years’ said The Head Mr Thomas Garnier who is also a keen rowing coach himself and one of the many volunteers who help make the National Schools’ Regatta happen.
for Coxed Four at National Schools’ Regatta
Five crews including the under 14 and under 16 girls’ crews were each placed in the top six nationally with the Senior boys winning gold in the Open Championship Coxed Four category. The Sixth Form crew was the best in their time trial semi-final and final.
From 1953 to 1963 the Regatta was run from the Pangbourne College Boat Club. It then moved upstream to Beale Park until 1973 when it moved to Nottingham. It has been at Dorney Lake for the last eight years.
Sports news
The National Schools’ Regatta is the premier junior regatta in Great Britain. With around 5,000 competitors the 3-day event attracts crews and supporters from more than 120 schools and clubs.
Amy Perrott, Isla Farrow and Izzy Corsinie at Royal Windsor Horse Show 2022
The Queen’s Challenge Cup Services class is split into two competitive show-jumping rounds and a parade of the teams in the main arena. The parade is a great spectacle and the Pangbourne College team was among 23 teams and 69 horses this year. Our team looked very smart in their Number 1 uniform and every bit professional and supportive of one another from start to finish.
In the Cup final Amy rode the jump off having ridden a confident first round and with many consistent individual wins at that height in the months leading up to the Show. The team was unanimous in their support and in front of a full audience in the main arena it made for an exciting round.
they were joined by Thomasin Munro. In spite of leaving the yard at 05:00 and not competing until 18:00 they did not lack fire or determination. All four rode good rounds, though one costly pole each meant we were not in the placings this Theyear.team
The Pangbourne College Equestrian Team of Amy Perrott, Isla Farrow and Izzy Corsinie was the youngest team to compete in the The Queen’s Challenge Cup Services class at this year’s special Platinum Jubilee Royal Windsor Horse Show.
already feel better prepared for next year having now experienced the energy and atmosphere of the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
College Equestrian team fly the flag at Platinum Jubilee Royal Windsor Horse Show
THE PANGBOURNIAN | CAMPUS LIFE
Our riders showed much stamina and resilience in waiting to jump again later on in the day in the National Schools’ Show Jumping competitive class when
With so many adult competitors
Isla Farrow competing in The Queen’s Challenge Cup at Royal Windsor Horse Show 2022
The Queen annually presents a prize to the best under 25 rider. This year Isla narrowly missed out on the top spot.
Amy rode the quickest time in our section but sadly a couple of costly poles meant we weren't able to move up the placings further. The team finished a respectable 5th place which was a fantastic achievement in a competition that is like no other.
Pangbourne College held a hugely successful ‘Primary School Outreach Week’ this June. Over the course of a week over 100 local Primary School children participated in various exciting activities and challenges.
Co-curricular60 & Community News
Art workshop, attended by Yattendon Primary School. A special day that allowed the children to explore the extensive beautiful grounds of the College for foliage to use in clay tile printing. They also created some bunting with some stencils, which they took back to proudly display at their school.
Pangbourne College’s partnerships and outreach programme reflects a strong belief in the benefit of educational partnerships and a long standing commitment to sharing our resources and expertise with the local community.
The week held host to various workshops and challenges for Primary Schools from the local area to enjoy, which included: Drama workshop, attended by Englefield Primary School. The children explored their creative side and enhanced their performance techniques as they performed short scenes from Peter Pan.
Pangbourne College host local Primary Schools in a successful Outreach Week
Over 100 children participated in our Outreach Week
After much deliberation the judging panel finally decided that the overall winner was Maisie with her Battenberg cake. In early May, the catering team baked Maisie’s creation and she worked with the Head Chef to ice them. The cakes were then served to the Year 7 pupils as part of a special breakfast. Well done Maisie!
Maisie Stephenson, Year 7, winner of 'The Platinum Pudding Competition'
The judging panel was made up of Head of Catering, Mr Iain Hedley and Sportsperson in Residence Mr Cameron McDade. The competition was fierce and there was no shortage of impressive and tasty creations. Some pupils even took it a step further and actually made their designs.
The annual 100% Race took place in April and to add to the fun, it was combined with a Colour Run.
Dunbar English pupils design puddings fit for the Queen
The 100% took a colourful turn this year
100% diddesigningpresentedandEnglishColourRaceRunteachersDrClareHarrawayMrsRosemarieSeccombe-WadeYear7pupilswiththetaskofapudding,andwhilsttheynothavetomakethetreatitself,it
Given the College’s long-standing history with the Royal Family, our English department decided to embark on a project which adapted Fortnum and Mason’s ‘The Platinum Pudding Competition’.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | CAMPUS LIFE
As per last year, it was a sponsored event which raised almost £1,500 for the British Red Cross Ukraine Appeal. Well done to CCCC’s Emily Cox and Rory Hogan who showed strong leadership to make the event happen.
At different points along the route, staff were ready to throw coloured powder at the runners. 93% of the college community finished the race, with some Dunbar pupils running the course several times over, and others supporting their friends to reach the finish line.
did offer them a chance to improve their presentation skills.
From a chocolate cheesecake with raspberries from Scotland, to a royal trifle, to a cake in the shape of a crown, to a Battenberg cake with a Platinum Jubilee theme - the choice was inspiring!
medics doing a great job at safely extracting a wounded team member from an ambush in the Medevac stance. The end of the day saw little reflection from anyone on the team, with all of us being too tired to even consider the final day fast approaching and all of us attempted to get an early night's sleep, once again, however, this didn’t quite go to plan.
The final day of the competition involved the two stances that we were most excited about as a team, the endurance course and drill. The endurance course, unlike many stances before it, did not sound simple on paper and certainly wasn’t simple in practice. The version of the endurance
Having two team members drop out with medical issues in the week running up to the competition, the team of seven showed an extraordinary amount of resilience, upholding the standards of the school and previous Pringle teams.
RM Pringle Competition
62CCF
The first morning began with a 05:30 wake-up call and a short time to prepare for the day ahead. The first stance that we were tasked with was the assault course; a series of obstacles, including 6ft walls, monkey bars over pools of water and tunnels. Our disadvantage caused by a lack of numbers rather than anything else immediately showed, with the team facing a gruelling run through the course, struggling to keep up with a team of nine parallel to us. Having started on the back foot, the attitude shown at the end was impressive, with each individual moving on to focus on the Close Quarter Battles, Navigation and Observation stances that followed, each providing their own unique challenge, some completed better than others.
The second half of the day saw us venture out to Woodbury Common, just north of Lympstone, in order to take on the next five stances. In what would become a pattern over the weekend, the most physically demanding task came immediately after a meal, the stretcher race. The race sounded simple on paper, the team must take a stretcher with the equivalent weight of a person around an undulating 2km course, rotating those who were carrying the stretcher between the seven of us. In practice, this was not so easy. After an early start on the assault course, all seven found themselves tiring very quickly with the disadvantage of reduced numbers once again rearing its
head, however, the team persevered and made it around in a respectable time.
In March, following an absence of a team, training and competition through the pandemic, Pangbourne returned to Commando Training Centre Royal Marines Lympstone with the sole aim of learning and preparing to return to winning form.
This was then followed by a stalk, once again a simple task on paper. All we had to do was get as close to a target group as possible and fire off one round at them without being spotted, however, this proved exceptionally difficult with many of us getting wet after a short swim in a shallow river.
The following Section Attack stance was a large boost in confidence, with the team finally seeming to come into their element, executing an assault on an enemy position almost effortlessly. The following two stances seemed to go past in a blur with the command task proving to be very simple and the assigned
CCF team put through their paces at Commando Training Centre Royal Marines Lympstone
By Morgan Llewellyn
Fabulous set
backstage helping with scene and costume changes.
Great Expectations
The final stance was the one that had the biggest expectation from all of us, the drill. Given our regular parades at school, our standard was high and the team outdid all expectations, raising the bar far higher than myself or anyone else could have set for them. The spirits after this were even higher than before, and although a result of fourth in the drill and thirteenth overall did not represent the effort put in by every person on the team, it did instil in all of us a desire to return the team to winning form in coming years.
course used for the competition was a 2-mile run around the rough terrain of Woodbury Common. However, it didn’t just stop there. The course also included wading pools, forcing all the cadets to be submerged chest-deep in water, many different tunnels of varying sizes (some with a little bit of water to crawl through), the dreaded sheep dip - a tunnel, fully submerged in cold water which each of us had to pass through aided by two other team members. Despite the horrific thought of completing all the obstacles, the group went into the run with positivity, some showing slightly more than others, and
The department would like to thank all of them for their hard work and commitment. There were excellent performances from all pupils. Joe De Halpert did an excellent job of running the performance from backstage as the Deputy Stage Manager, guiding Rosie Parbutt and Adam Simms as they operated the sound, media and lighting desks. Josie Spalton was excellent
A cast and crew of 30 pupils
THE PANGBOURNIAN | CAMPUS LIFE
all ended the course with just as much positivity, although slightly wet.
Two days of gruelling competition
This year’s College production was an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ ‘Great Expectations’, written and directed by Drama Teacher, Miss Bland. 26 pupils from Years 7 to Upper Sixth performed on stage, with four pupils working backstage.
Great performances
It was fantastic to be able to perform in front of an audience of parents, staff and pupils; thank you to everyone who came to Nextwatch.year’s production will be the musical ‘Chicago’ and as always, everyone is welcome to audition!
by Alexandra Garnier
Rory De Halpert - the first pupil to have a go on the new Model D Steinway piano in the Nancye Harding Recital Hall in the Music School
This Festival marked the significant milestone of 10 years since the creation of the Music Department and ICT Hub, known as the Harding Communications
6410th
In early March, Pangbourne College celebrated its 10th anniversary Piano Festival with a full day’s programme of competitive and non-competitive classes for over 120 young musicians, aged 7 to 18, from more than 25 schools in the South of England.
PianoAnniversaryFestival
There were classes of Grade 1 to Grade 8+ standard; solos, duets, two-piano, and accompaniment performances. These were adjudicated by three superb
Centre, in 2012 and the arrival of a fleet of Steinway pianos. It also employed each of the school’s three Steinway concert grand pianos.
In addition to the Model D, the College has a Model C concert grand piano in
In June, the College took delivery of nine replacement Steinway & Sons pianos.
An opportunity to play on Steinway concert grand pianos musicians and communicators, Mr Luis Parés, Mrs Pamela Chilvers, and Mrs Samantha Ward. The day was a fantastic opportunity for young people and their families, as well as their teachers, to enjoy the school’s magnificent pianos, as well as learn from three very knowledgeable and experienced pianists.
In order to give pupils more time to learn on the largest of the Steinway concert grand pianos, the Model C which was in the Nancye Harding Recital Hall has now been replaced with a Model D. This particular piano and its location are perfect for pupils and professional musicians to make recordings, as there is a special recording studio attached to the Hall.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | PIANO FESTIVAL
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College continues its special relationship with world-class piano manufacturer, Steinway & Sons
Among the hallmarks of the Pangbourne Piano Festival are the workshop style of each of the competitive classes and the positive and constructive comments given after each performance.
Since its creation, almost 1,000 young musicians have attended the Piano Festival. For many, playing at the
the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel and a Model A grand piano in one of the practice rooms of the Music School. Steinway upright pianos are located in the remaining practice rooms of the Music School and one of the music classrooms.
Festival has been the only opportunity they have had to play on such worldclass instruments. The quality of sound, number of pedals, and recital environment have been just some of the benefits of the Pangbourne College Piano Festival experience.
Over 120 young musicians competed
to see current and former parents mixing with local people from the area. The market itself raised almost £3,000.
This academic year has seen the launch of the PPA Shop, an online shop on the Pangbournian Portal, which has enabled us to run fundraising initiatives in spite of not being able to run events.
The Pangbourne Parents’ Association (PPA) is a voluntary organisation which raises funds for the College and a nominated local charity, Young People and Children First. The PPA is chaired by Jayne Wells and has a committee of 12 parents. The role of the Pangbourne Parents’ Association (PPA) is to create a welcoming and inclusive community as well as raise precious funds.
PPA
All smiles with the new kayaking equipment
The Christmas Bazaar run by Candida Kennedy, who remained on the Committee after her son Luca Kennedy (H 14-21) had graduated, was a roaring success. The market brought the whole community back together after a hiatus due to the pandemic and it was fantastic
In March, the postponed ‘Hollywood Ball’ was finally held and what a roaring success! There was a party atmosphere as people were so happy to spend the evening with their friends at the tail end of the lockdown. The Ball raised almost £10,000 with the inclusion of a very popular Silent Auction, including some fantastic prizes donated by generous parents and local businesses.
Like others, activities and events last year were curtailed by the pandemic, but the PPA worked tirelessly to raise funds throughout and since restrictions were lifted have more than made up for lost time, raising the most ever in the 2021/22 academic year.
‘Here’s looking at you, kid’
67 48 parents volunteered with PPA events this year £2,500 given to local charity YPACF £10,000 given to the College in Upcominggrants events: Sun 25 Sep New Parents Drinks Sat 15 Oct ‘Pirates’ Ball Sat 12 Nov Christmas Market
THE PANGBOURNIAN | PPA
We were also able to again make a £2,500 donation to Young People and Children First (YPACF), our chosen local charity, which helps young people transition from foster care into supported living within the community.
We are delighted to report that this year, due to record-breaking fundraising, we were able to donate back to the College over £12,000. We do this through grants to support specific projects which are bid for by members of staff who are looking to develop ideas or areas of the College.
Ever popular Chistmas Market
Science block improvement
New car scissor lift in use by the Car Restoration Club
Available items include a Pangbourne College 2022 Calendar, Christmas Cards and Divisional Tote Bags, in addition to limited edition signed prints of Devitt House and the Falklands Chapel.
Grants included funding to set up a new electric car building club, buying a scissor lift for use by the DT department and Classic Car Club and buying kayaking equipment and wet suits for the CCF. Further we were able to fund the development of a new ‘green’ seating space in the Science department and purchased more wooden benches for use by pupils around the Divisions.
An evening of glitz and glamour
All proceeds from events and these initiatives go towards support the College and our nominated charity. In 2021, the PPA donated over £5,000 to support various departments. The PPA was also able to donate £2,500 to Young People and Children First (YPACF) who look after young people when they leave foster care, helping them to find work and a new home.
‘Uncle’ Colin, as he is called by the children, founded the Kings School in 2004 which is now one of the most successful schools in south India. It has gained a first class reputation for academic achievement and also for sports, music, art and Indian culture. A large number of academic and sports scholarships are offered to bright children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Colin was born in the UK his family had been living in India for five generations. His parents and grandparents were born there. One of his forefathers, Sir Henry Lawrence, built the wellknown Lawrence School near Shimla in 1845. Other family members served in the Army, Railways and Civil Services.
provide care, education and training for poor, disadvantaged and marginalised children and young people. The Charity started with five children and now cares for and educates nearly 2,000.
68Although
The child had been brought to the UK for treatment by a charity. Colin hosted the child while he was being treated. “While the young fellow got along well with my elder son, one day he beat up my younger one. The episode ended up in a health clinic in Manchester where the doctor turned out to be from the same village as Antony’s.”
It was 1960 when Colin Wagstaff left The Abbey School, East Grinstead to enter the Hesperus Division at Pangbourne. Over the following two years he won the form prize for Industry and for Proficiency. He also received a Bronze Medallion from the Royal Life Saving Society. Maybe these were subtle indicators of how his future life would take shape.
In 2013, Colin received the award of an OBE by the Queen for his services to
a man on a mission
Colin travelled to Antony’s little hamlet. With no proper business plan or strategy, he determined to do something to break the cycle of poverty he saw. He felt that education was the greatest way to eliminate the gap between the haves and the have-nots. He founded the Kings World Trust for Children in 1993 to
Colin Wagstaff
After leaving the College, Colin was an Officer Cadet at RMA Sandhurst and became Infantry Platoon Commander in Operational Battalion. He served in the British Army for 14 years before a medical discharge due to injuries. India was far from his mind. However a street child called Antony radically changed his course of life.
For the last 25 years he has spent six to eight months each year in India. And as fate would have it, Antony’s sister became his daughter in law. For Colin it seems that life has come full circle. His ancestor’s started a school in the mid-19th century and 167 years later he returned to build another one. India
Tamil Cultural Day celebrations
More celebrations for the silver jubilee Uncle Colin’s birthday
Celebrating the KWTC silver jubilee
Education and Young Communities in Southern India.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | COLIN WAGSTAFF
Please visit kingschildren.org for information about sponsoring a child, donations and volunteering in
UK Trustee Dr.Sankar's Visit to KWTC India
Courage,70Compassion,
As the 21st century lengthened, new actual or potential humanitarian disasters overshadowed the first two decades, culminating in the Covid-19 global pandemic. Dozens of OPs rose to the challenge of countering the virus, many involving new concepts and
Charityworking,”
Rick Powell gold winner wheelchair basketball Invictus Games 2014
medal winning GB team at the 2014 Invictus Games. “We’ve realised that being without limbs shouldn’t hold you back,” he said after receiving his medal. “Time is precious and one cannot sit and be idle. Life is for living…There is no looking back, only forward.”
In peace or war, stepping in to the breach without thought for oneself is often what makes the difference. Call it courage, call it bravery, call it heroism, call it training, call it leadership or a strong sense of duty or simply professionalism. Whatever it is, Fortiter ac Fideliter counts when it matters. Sometimes bravery arises from being the victim – and responding positively. Rick Powell (90-95) was blown up while serving in the Territorial Army in Iraq in 2008. An armoured vehicle in which he was travelling drove over a pressureplate mine. One of his legs was smashed and the other was damaged badly. Flown to an American Forces hospital in Germany, his left leg was amputated. Years of painful recuperation in hospitals in the UK followed. Determined not to let his disability define the rest of his life, Powell went to university, did a two-year course to become a paramedic and went on to work as a medic at offshore oil and gas and wind farm installations and at the West Midlands Ambulance Service. While at university, he began playing wheelchair basketball and graduated to become a member of a team which became national champions in 2013 and a member of the gold-
OPs have contributed to society in countless ways over many years in peace and war as three relatively recent examples taken from Robin Knight’s new book “Leaders” underline.
ways of working, especially for health professionals. A typical medical volunteer during the first lockdown in Spring 2020, when there were no vaccines and death was a real and ever-present danger in the National Health Service, was Petty Officer Naval Nurse Alice Mullen (nee Hopkin; 06-08). Based at the time at the HMS Drake Medical Centre in Plymouth, she volunteered to join the ICU at Derriford Hospital, a large NHS teaching hospital in the city. “Our leadership and training have seen us step up to support our civilian colleagues in the new ways of
by Robin Knight
John Ridgeway received a personal letter of support from The Prince of Wales
you have chosen to highlight the plight of the albatross…I know you feel as strongly as I do that these magnificent birds cannot be allowed to slide quietly to extinction.” As Prince Charles also noted, while the Ridgways had been at sea, an international agreement on the conservation of albatrosses and petrels had finally taken effect.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | LEADERS
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Alice Mullens was involved in supporting and mentoring the upskilling of nurses
she explained on a Ministry of Defence website posting during the crisis. “We’ve been involved in supporting and mentoring the upskilling of nurses…It’s clear that the only way to get through this in one piece is to work together as one big team.” Alice survived and went on to become a senior nurse on board the new British aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth as it took part in a long deployment through the contested South China Sea in the autumn of 2021.
fishing in the Southern Ocean which was massacring the albatross and emptying the seas of fish stocks. The couple’s epic voyage in support of “the greatest bird in creation” took them on a journey of 30,000 miles and 327 days around the Cape of Good Hope, across the Southern Ocean, on to Australia, New Zealand, Cape Horn and the Falklands “uninsured, unsponsored and entirely self-funded.” Along the way they collected more than 100,000 signatures for a petition demanding that the world take action to stop the slaughter of the albatross. After the Ridgways’ return to London, they carried the petition to Rome to the headquarters of the UN Food and Agricultural Organisation. One of their most prominent British supporters, the Prince of Wales, wrote a personal letter to Ridgway when he got back to Scotland which in part stated: “I did just want to congratulate you on the typically direct and personal way
Leaders by Robin Knight (published in 2021 by Unicorn Publishing Group)
In 2003-04 perhaps the most prominent effort by an OP to raise public awareness and funds for a charitable cause was undertaken by the redoubtable adventurer and former paratrooper John Ridgway (51-55). Determined to highlight the plight of the albatross, he took to the sea again aged 65 and left home with his wife Marie Christine to sail around the world in his 57-foot ketch English Rose V1. His goal was to rouse feeling worldwide about illegal
One of the many interesting things we talked about is why Jess chose to do this particular challenge, as it is certainly not a choice one makes lightly, as we shall soon find out. Jess tells me that
We started what would be a most impressive tour at Courchevel, Ski capital of the world, where she honed her culinary skills “as a chalet host, cooking for up to 12 guests” for a season. From there we moved on to PGL, the adventure centres, where she worked as an outdoor activity instructor for some seasons allowing her to express her adventurous side. Finally, we arrived at her most recent adventure, having spent the last five years working in the yachting industry, rising all the way up to first mate (Most befitting for an OP, I think you shall agree). As we spoke on this topic, I learned that Jess was so widely travelled that the best way to
Moving on to the challenge proper, we spoke about what it was and what it entailed. The event is named the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge and is organised by Atlantic Campaigns (Talisker Whisky being the title sponsor). Jess was quick to enlighten me
By Christopher Heathwood
Full72
her inspiration for the challenge came from her farther, whom, alongside her godfather, completed the challenge back in 2005 (back then, many undertook the challenge, but not that many completed it). Taking things further, Jess has always had a profound sense of adventure, which, one would imagine, made her a great fit at Pangbourne. “I’ve always loved adventure and loved the outdoors, and… just the simplicity of it all really.” From this we can all see how she is clearly more than up to the task of completing the challenge. Inspiration came from her father, and godfather who completed the challenge back in 2005.
describe the extent of her travels was that she has, in her words, been “all across the world.” Jess goes on to tell me that she has already completed an Atlantic crossing in a yacht. “Hopefully I remember the way,” she says with a small chuckle. Needless to say, dear reader, I think, and I imagine you agree, that with all of her experience (and allowing for malcontent weather), the chances of the Full Throttle crew getting terribly lost are slim at best.
Throttle
Across the
Recently I had the pleasure of speaking to OP Jessica Rowe (StG 10-13) about her undertaking the Talisker Atlantic Challenge, as part of the all-women’s team, Full Throttle (formerly Atlantic Rouge). We started talking about her journey since Pangbourne, where she outlined much of her experience, most of which would prove useful in the coming challenge.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | FULL THROTTLE
A challenge that the Full Throttle crew face is, as Jess tells me, simply getting to the start line. Before even that however, her crew had already faced
Aileen McCann, Jess Rowe, Daisy Lucker andCorrine Amos in the water behind the lens!
Jess on a 48 hour training row heading towards Babbacombe
attempting to get companies to sponsor their crew and help pay for the boat and entry fee (as well as relevant courses and kit), a sum of around £120,000 in total . It turns out that the Full Throttle crew were lucky enough to have their own Patron; Tracy Edwards. For those not in the know, Tracy Edwards (who is, incidentally, from Pangbourne) was the skipper on the first all-female crew to participate in the Whitbread Round the
World Yacht Race in 1989, receiving an MBE for her efforts. Fortunately for Jess and the rest of Full Throttle, the issue of getting sponsorship is made easier by the fact that Corrine, a member of the crew, runs a film production company, and thus can create content which will be more extensively visible than a simple sticker on the side of the boat and a logo on their website. One of the more interesting ways Jess tells me that she and the crew raise money is through fundraisers, such as bringing her rowing machine down to the local beach, and having small competitions, “getting everybody to do a 200-meter sprint, most people falling off the seats.” Even though they only charge £5 per entry, over the course of a weekend, one can imagine how the funds add up. “it’s like a full-time job” she says, and having seen all it takes just to make it to La Gomera, the race’s start line, I think I can heartily agree. For those readers who are either planning to be, or are supporters of the team, it might be wise to consider dusting off your black tie, as Jess tells me that the team is planning a post-race charity ball to celebrate their trip, with a talk, auction, and all-round good times.
Atlantictothedauntingtaskofwhatthetrainingsimplyheld.“wetryandget24-hourrowsineveryweekend…there’sfour
of us, we row 2 hours on, 2 hours off”. Whilst this does seem like a lot at first, it is important to note that the entirety of the challenge is almost three thousand nautical miles long, and will take on average 50 days, weather and navigation dependent. Jess clarifies this, calling it “the world’s toughest row,” as crews must row from one side of the Atlantic to the other. She goes on to tell me that “we started the campaign a year ago, and it takes up every single evening, every free day, trying to get sponsorship, preparing the boat… getting all the kit, and spending time in the gym.” Delving further into the nature of preparation for the challenge, I learn that Jess and her crew not only spend extraordinary amounts of time at the gym, and on the water (it requires a minimum of 120 hours total on the boat just to qualify –no mean feat in and of itself), but also
and tribulations when two of her previous crew members were unable to fulfil the commitments required for the challenge, as they were unable to commit to the rigorous requirement of 120 hours minimum on the water. However, in true Pangbournian fashion, Jess and remaining crewmate Corrine chose not to give up, and instead rose to the challenge, undertaking the not so simple task of finding two more suitable candidates to replace their lost
comrades. One must consider in this that they are not looking for mere strength and endurance, however, as members of the team are required to fill out other roles both pre and during the challenge. This lead to many people saying “we don’t have time – we can’t just drop everything,” and a feeling of trepidation encompassing Jess and Corrine. However, they managed to find their two new recruits, Daisy, who competes in triathlons, and Aileen, a
74trials
CrossFit champion. Having found their new recruits, it was time for a rebrand. Showing remarkable levels of industry and resilience, the team then spent 2 weeks undergoing a complete rebrand from “Atlantic Rouge” to “Full Throttle”
Jess will make the trip across the Atlantic with her three other crew members, each brining a unique skill to help them reach the finish line in the Caribbean. Whilst the preparations and training that Jess tells me the team has undergone sound both extensive and rigorous, one particular point that she stressed to me is that it is, first and foremost, a team effort. Jess herself shall be skipper and navigator for the voyage, with each other team member taking on responsibilities outside of the obvious, performing maintenance, cooking food and all other manner of tasks which will assist in propelling the crew faster and further than their competing teams. “we’ve got someone who is a first aider, someone who is in charge of nutrition… a skipper, a navigator, someone in charge of making sure all the electronics are working.” For the duration of the challenge itself, the crew of four shall be taking it in turns to row (you didn’t think the whole crew was going to row all the time, did you?), with 2 people rowing, and 2 people resting, performing maintenance, checking the course and doing other vital tasks. One of the interesting points Jess calls to my attention is how they are planning to take in water. The crew has installed a water maker which desalinates seawater, allowing them to not have to take water with them, thus keeping the boat’s overall weight down, and keeps plastics to a minimum. The crew plans to each drink 8 litres of water per day, in an effort to stave off the effects of dehydration that they will no doubt have to deal with. When it comes to cuisine
A harness and a PLB must be worn at all times
It was a challenge simply getting to the start line.
The Full Throttle crew, having completed their preparations, paid the fees, and prepped for the course, shall cycle from England (led by triathlon veteran Daisy) to the start line of La Gomera over the course of 2 weeks where they shall undertake another 2 weeks of final route planning and preparation before the race begins on the 12th of December. With a competitive desire to win, Jess has said that the crew would like to come first out of the allwomen’s four category, “but it would be great to beat some of the male teams as well.” She also said how it would be nice to beat the all-women’s record of 34 days, however did note that “it’s very dependent on the weather… there are some years when all the records get broken because you sort of get pushed across and the winds are in your favour.”
C.A.L.M. World Vision - Ukraine, Maggie’s Cancer Care and GOSH are the chosen charities.
We came onto the subject of charities, and how the public can support the team. First and foremost is the aforementioned fundraisers that you can attend, should you be in the right place at the right time. If you need more flexibility in your donations, a link/QR code has been provided below, and you can donate there. With regards to specific charities, Full Throttle have chose 4 that they felt resonated most with themselves and the people around them: C.A.L.M. (the Campaign Against Living Miserably), who help people with depression and
on the boat, the crew won’t be getting Michelin star food, or white star service, as they will be eating food rehydrated with the water from their desalination machine (think less cruise ship and more spaceship).
Facebook & Linked In: Full Throttle @Instagram:rowfullthrottle Email: rowfullthrottle@gmail.com Go fund me: gofund.me/f0714aee THE PANGBOURNIAN | FULL THROTTLE Boat
Having considered how much of an impact the whole challenge has had on Jess’ life up to this point, I made the comment of how she was planning to return to everyday life, and if the challenge went well, would she be planning to do it again? “I have already thought about rowing the Pacific as a pair, but we’ll see how this one goes first.” I am sure that the team will have no problems getting across, and we can all wish the Full Throttle team the
Following the challenge (and a lengthy, well-earned holiday), the team are planning to sail back from Antigua in an attempt to be entirely carbon neutral.
I have already thought about rowing the Pacific as a pair, but we’ll see how this one goes first.
best of luck in their endeavour. If you want to get in contact with the team to ask any more questions, or wish to sponsor them (they are always on the hunt for more sponsors!), you can get in touch with them at rowfullthrottle@ gmail.com. More information on the challenge itself can be found at taliskerwhiskyatlanticchallenge.com.www. repairs in Exmouth Marina
other mental health issues; World Vision, a charity rehoming families displaced by the War in Ukraine; Maggie’s, which has a free cancer support and information centres around the UK, and finally; Great Ormond Street Hospital, the children’s hospital helping children with lifesaving treatments. The team have set a commendable goal of raising £30,000, split evenly between the four charities.
Harbinger parents, guardians, staff and pupils have showered departing Housemaster Dan and his wife Harriet with gifts, cards and letters of thanks. Together this illustrious couple have spent a combined 18 years teaching at the College. They even met at Pangbourne and got married in the Chapel. It’s a remarkable story.
A fond farewell from all of us.
HarrietDan &
“When we married in August 2020 during lockdown only 30 people were allowed. So this August we’re having a Blessing in the Chapel with around 200 guests and a garden party on Big Side with loads of our Pangbourne colleagues because we’ve made so many good friends.”
It follows that both Dan and Harriet are very sad to leave us at Pangbourne but they are confident that they’ve made the right decision to move to Cheltenham. As Dan said,” If we stayed we would have been more than happy but we felt that we had to push ourselves out of our comfort zone. Harbinger will always remain a very special place in our hearts and I hope the boys have felt very much part of our extended family. I know that the boys will welcome Mr & Mrs Sumner into the Division. They are going to be fantastic.”
Main photo: Harriet and Dan on their wedding day outside Devitt House.
Photo right: Harriet assisting student in classroom.
the Harbinger boys. They include the Boys Sports Cup (many years in a row), Overall Sports Cup, 100% Cup (8th year in a row), Hockey, Rugby, Cricket and Swimming Champions. It’s a superb achievement and one of the highlights of his four-year tenure as Harbinger “Housemaster.I’mequallyproud of that moment when one of my students, who has battled with Physics for three years, finds out that he has got through. That broad smile says everything.”
Dan giving his boys in Harbinger a 'team talk' before his final parade on Founders' Day.
Harriet comes from a family of Pangbournians. Her mother was a senior teacher here from 2001 and her brother was a former student. Harriet joined the Sixth Form in 2009 before going to university and returning as a teacher, in time becoming Head of Key Stage 3 Religious Studies, Head of Netball and Swimming and a staff overseer of The Charlotte Drake Society.
It seems that many former students return as staff. Harriet and Dan feel that it’s due to the unchanging Pangbourne tradition - the uniform, parades, divisions, the world challenge trip, DofE Awards - the values-based education and experiences that makes friendships for life. Her first ever roommate in Illawarra was her bridesmaid.
He and Harriet have always fostered a great feeling of community in the “TheDivision.atmosphere is something which has been very important to us. Having people who are happy and take pride in the Division tends to ensure that they give their best, and when our boys give their best, more often than not they come out on top.”
Alongside CCF Contingent Commander Colin Hearn, they both accompanied the Sixth Formers on a World Challenge Trip to the Nabugabo Community Learning Centre in Uganda. Apart from being of real benefit to the children it also provided a once in a lifetime opportunity for everyone to forge enduring friendships.
Dan’s sporting pedigree and enthusiasm shines through with the overwhelming number of sporting trophies that have been won in the major Divisional (Boarding House) competitions by
THE PANGBOURNIAN | INTERVIEW
78Invicta 1962
In 1962 the College’s 1st XV Rugby team became the most successful 1st XV that the college ever produced.
The side had no weaknesses. There were three or four outstanding individuals, but the others all played their part. Even if one breaks the team down into its
They were subjected to press and cameramen after a magnificent display of attacking rugger.
component parts, front row, second row, back row, halves, centres, wings and full back, no weak link can be seen. In this respect we should be thankful that injuries did so little harm. Only eighteen players represented the 1st XV in thirteen matches. Twice illness kept players away, but only once was a player prevented by injury. This is most remarkable and is sheer good fortune.
Sides in other seasons have scored more points, but I doubt whether any have played more attractive rugby. Perhaps the greatest tribute that can be paid is to point out that many of our most regular spectators were totally unconnected with the College. They were not interested in the players themselves, but merely in the brand of rugby football they produced.
Above all, this side was unspoilt by success. Always receptive and eager to learn, they showed no mood of exultation as victory followed victory. Unaccustomed publicity did not turn their heads. At the Rectory Field on December 18th, they were subjected
The greatest ever Pangbourne team?
They played 13 matches and won 13, of which 10 were against schools. There are a number of items in the college archive that pay homage to that successful team including the following article taken from The Log of 1962.
The 1st XV played an enterprising, adventurous game. The pack, not in any way outstanding, nevertheless produced an ample supply of the ball.
The backs were quick up in defence and, once in possession of the ball, did not surrender it lightly. The man who started this game "picked up the ball and ran”. It is nowhere recorded that he then proceeded to kick it. So these backs, who could on occasions handle brilliantly, avoided the temptation of kicking it ahead aimlessly. The result was a series of brilliant tries, often on the left wing where Roberts surpassed all expectations. Often these movements were started in our own 25. This is a risky business, but this side showed that it was no ordinary one when it was prepared to take them. The side had no weakness.
R. M. Roberts scored 29 tries on the left wing. His speed and body swerve were too much for ordinary opposition. He has a good pair of hands, and can beat his opposite number with ease and cover forwards with a quick turn infield. He tackled strongly. He was the outstanding success of the side. Occasionally, he accelerated too soon and the result was a forward pass.
M. C. Ramsden was vice-captain and led the pack. As blindside forward he performed prodigies of energy and was particularly quick at regaining control of the loose ball. A great spoiler of scrum halves, he was an outstanding player, both in attack and defence.
P. L. Byrne was flyhalf and looked after the backs. He produced beautiful, long, quick passes for his centres.
XV
D. N. Hanmer performed a useful job at left centre. He lacked the pace of the other backs, but could make an outside break, provided he did not run across the field. A strong tackier in defence and a greatly improved player.
Only 18 players represented the 1st XV that season
He has a devastating break which he seldom employed. In defence, he was so quick on to his opposite number that a defending wing forward almost became redundant. He has the most natural gifts as a player in the XV, but played most unselfishly. He was elected captain for 1963.
R. C. Lane-Nott was captain. He had firm control and his leadership played an important part in moments of crisis in the Radley, M.C.S. and Duke of York's matches. As a hooker, he is greatly improved, with a quick, clean strike, and he ensured the backs plenty of the ball from the tight. His loose scrummaging was particularly fiery. As Captain, he set a fine example, both on and off the field, and he made himself into a useful placekicker.
to press and cameramen, and after a magnificent display of attacking rugger they dispersed home without fuss. Let us hope that all future Pangbourne XV’s, even though they may not achieve as much success, may be as pleasant as this one.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | FROM THE ARCHIVES
A. A. Wilson had a rather varied career as a rugger player, but eventually settled down as a reliable full back. He has a good sense of position, fielded and kicked well and was fearless in tackling and falling. In attack, he was keen to join in with the three-quarters and on one occasion scored a try.
A. D. Shanks was the most accomplished scrum half. He threw out a long accurate pass to Byrne, but at the same time his defensive kicking was most valuable. He also has a useful break, when not overdone, and scored a vital try against M.C.S. A good allround the 1st
Membersplayer. of
This side was unspoilt by success v Rosslyn Park h W 12 9 v Reading School h W 46 0 v Brasenose College, Oxford h W 19 6 v Radley College h W 15 11 v HMS Worcester a W 34 0 v St. Bartholomew's, Newbury h W 30 5 v Abingdon School a W 27 3 v Old Pangbournians h W 17 0 v HMS Conway h W 9 0 v Oratory School h W 15 3 v Magdalen College School h W 12 9 v Douai School h W 12 0 v Duke of York's Military School a W 13 3 Played 13 Won 13 Drawn 0 Lost 0 Results
G. R. Realf ran hard and straight at right centre. He tackled well and improved his passing and handling. His thrust enabled him to run out of many tackles. Next season he should “make” many tries for his wing.
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R. G. M. Wingate was an enthusiastic prop forward. Well built, with strong shoulders and neck muscles, he was a great help to his hooker. He backed up energetically and was on the spot to catch the cross kick from the wing. He was always keen to try new ideas.
G. F. M. Thomas was by the end of the season a tower of strength at No. 8. Probably the best line-out player, he both covered hard in defence and backed up the backs in attack. But he did not neglect the primary duties of a forward, to shove hard in the scrum, and the number of pushover tries was remarkable. A greatly improved forward.
J. R. Coles was the other useful prop who did much unobtrusive work. A sound front row is the basis of any successful side, and next season he ought to be a formidable scrummager.
J. L. Neale played on the right wing. Although naturally a centre, he ran hard and was rewarded latterly with two excellent tries. He specialised in the cross
Nick Stephens presents to the College for safekeeping the Invicta 62 Jersey first presented to his father Lionel Stephens at a reunion of the 1962 team held on 29 April 2017
C. Race was openside wing forward. This difficult role he adopted at the beginning of the season and he made great strides here. Although the fly half occasionally escaped him, he was adept at backing up his three-quarters. By the end of the season he had made himself into a competent player.
J. S. Maynard packed with Adams in the second row, and together they produced a formidable “power house”. Large but cumbersome, he was determined to justify his selection and was probably the most improved player in the side.
R. D. Adams packed in the second row, where he shoved hard and low. In the lineout he improved considerably. He was not often seen in the loose but he did a good deal of hard work.
Pangbourne 1st XV 1962
kick. Next season his strong, straight running should be an asset in the centre.
I wonder how many readers can finish that saying? The Pangbourne cadets of 1925 could, that is if they could stop coughing for long enough!
THE PANGBOURNIAN | FROM THE ARCHIVES
Fortunately the outbreak was short lived and by the 14th of February all the extra space was returned to its proper use and College life began to return to normal. As College life begins to return to normal this year we should be thankful that at least the current students have been spared the ordeal of recuperating in a hammock on a diet of soup three times a day!
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Influenza report 1925
In the past two years the college has faced a huge challenge in coping with a global pandemic but this challenge is not unique. In January and February of 1925 an influenza epidemic swept through the College. The archive holds an eight page memo drafted by Captain Superintendent Tracy on his plan for dealing with issue. The infection was introduced to College by Cadet R Hill who was admitted to the Sick Bay on the 18th of January, the day after all the cadets had returned for the new year. By the 23rd it was clear that extra Sick Bay accommodation would be needed. Devitt House Reading Room was opened as a ward with eighteen beds which were filled immediately and three dormitories on the first floor were taken over with patients using their hammocks!
Marching instructions from 1930
Quick March!
It’s probably fair to say that there aren’t many schools where learning to march forms part of the daily routine.
Coughs and Sneezes!!
For over a hundred years new entrants to the College have had to master the art of standing to attention, keeping straight lines and not ‘tick tocking’. All familiar problems to the 1930’s cadet as the illustration below shows. Drawn by Cadet Hoare in 1930 for inclusion in the College magazine The Log it goes to show that some problems are perennial!
Help us ensure that the history of the College, and the legacy of Lionel Stephens’ work is preserved for generations to come.
THEtaught!PANGBOURNIAN | FROM THE ARCHIVES
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The Admirals Team 1930. Lord Jellicoe front row 3 from left
Founders Day saw the welcome return of a regular fixture, the OP versus the 1st XI cricket match.
This annual sporting battle has been taking place for more years than most can remember but in the early 1930’s it was a very different team that put the 1st XI through their paces. On the 14th of June 1930 the Annual Admirals Cricket Match took place on Bigside. Facing the College team, captained by Cadet T. H. Knapp was a team of Royal Navy Admirals lead by Admiral of the Fleet Viscount Jellicoe, Commander of the British fleet at the battle of Jutland. Viscount Jellicoe’s team comprised four full Admirals, two Vice Admirals, five Rear Admirals and one Marine Major. The Admirals set the bar, winning by seven wickets, a win which coincidentally was repeated by this years Old Pangbournian side – but then some would say they were well
The estimated cost over the next 5 years is £40,000 to fully digitise the archives, and to create a permanent home for displaying our best items.
A Solid Innings
By giving £20 per month, for example, you will enable us to digitise records, photos and documents, and photograph objects and memorabilia left to the College.
The 1st X1 1930 preparing for battle with the Admirals
“Most of us won’t be here for the College’s Bicentenary, but I do believe it is our duty to make sure there is one.”
We have all undoubtedly benefited from the generosity of previous benefactors, starting of course with the Devitt Family. But benefaction should be a continuing process and leaving a legacy to Pangbourne is an excellent way to ensure our Founder’s vision can continue for the benefit of future generations of Pangbournians.
The Devitt Legacy Society is named after the remarkable Chairman of Governors, Sir Philip Devitt (1876-1947). No single individual in the history of the Nautical College Pangbourne did more to ensure its character, survival and growth, or to guarantee the national reputation it had gained.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Devitt Legacy Society, please contact Tim ore:HeadHamilton,ofDevelopment,development@pangbourne.comt:01189766697
DEVITTLEGACYSOCIETY
Roger Lane-Nott, Former Chair of Governors and Old Pangbournian.
is thought to have died sometime in 2021. His copy of the 2022 edition of the OP Magazine was returned to the College in March marked “deceased.”
In Memoriam Frederick H.H Kemp (41-44)
FREDERICK.1940s H. H. KEMP
BLANFORD (39-42)
After leaving Harrisons he returned to the U.K. settled in Woking and worked as an executive in London for Esso Petroleum. During this time, he was an active member and captain of Woking Hockey Club and also organised the OP side for matches against the College.
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D.T.B.1930s
In 1944 he left Pangbourne to join T & J Harrison in Liverpool as a Cadet in the merchant service, remaining for five years and qualifying as a deck officer Second Mate. In this period, he served in the Atlantic and Indian Ocean theatres at the tail end of the war and was part of a flotilla that was to invade Penang, Malaya. However, in transit to the area V.J. day was declared and so the flotilla was re directed peacefully to Singapore.
His retirement years were filled with sailing. In winter he painted in oils and became an accomplished historical marine artist. In his eighties he realised that he could no longer handle cruisers and so took on a ‘stink pot’ motor boat and motored in company with H.I.S.C.
NIGEL BERLYN (48-52) died in Australia in February 2022 aged 85. Rear Admiral Simon Cullen, Royal Australian
Fifteens and was class captain, winning the Holt cup in 1962 and 1963.
Efforts to discover more have drawn a blank. All that is known about him is that he left the NCP in the middle of World War II to serve in the Merchant Navy. By 2020 he was living near Battle in Sussex. We have no further details.
In the 1970’s my father moved to Tempests and participated in Weymouth Olympic Week where he came 3rd and was selected for Olympic Trials in Germany. Unfortunately, he had to decline to take part due to early onset of hip arthritis. As hip surgery was in its infancy, he was advised to minimise the burden on his hips so as to delay the operation and so graduated to cruisers. He became an active member of Chichester Cruiser Racing Club where he served as Commodore for a period of three years.
(41-44) died peacefully at Farnham Mill Nursing home on June 23, 2022, aged 94, as reported to the Society by his son Jeffrey.
a keen sportsman he excelled at Hockey as well as Rugby, Cricket (half colours), Cross-country and Boxing.
“Frederick was born in Singapore in December 1926 into a colonial family and lived in Burma (Myanmar) until he was seven years old when he sailed to London docks unaccompanied. At 13 he started at The Nautical College. Always
During the late 1950s he became less involved in Woking Hockey and instead joined Hayling Island Sailing Club (H.I.S.C.). Here he sailed mainly Flying
My father spent the last years of his life by the sea on Hayling Island living near the sailing club and his sailing friends. He leaves his devoted wife of 71 years, three children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.”
The following is a summary of obituaries published in 2021, written and collated by Robin Knight. Fuller accounts may be read on the Pangbournian Portal.
A.J.G. ELLIS (44-47) died sometime in 2021-22, his 2022 edition of the OP Magazine having been returned marked “deceased.” At one point he was a Lt. in the Royal Navy. In 1946 he was in Macquarie Division. He became a Cadet Captain in the Michaelmas Term 1947. We have no further details.
Captain in June 1975. In early 1977 he was posted to Fleet Headquarters as the Chief Staff Officer (Technical). He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in June 1978 in recognition of his service as Project Director of the Guided Missile Frigate Acquisition Program.
Nigel Berlyn (48-52)
Berlyn served on exchange with the RAN in 1964-65 as the Practical Training Co-ordinator at the apprentice training establishment (HMAS Nirimba).
In early 1971 Commander Berlyn was appointed Marine Engineer Officer in the aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne and served in her until the end of 1972. He then completed the Joint Services Staff College, Canberra, in 1973 and afterwards was posted, as an Acting Captain, as Programming and Planning Manager in the New Destroyer Project Directorate. This project was to introduce the Light Destroyer (DDL) into the RAN but was cancelled in late After1973.theDDL
In August 1989 he proposed the introduction of random breath testing at the dockyard to try and curb excessive lunch time drinking by dockyard workers and reduce accident and injury rates. This met with stiff opposition at the dockyard but this process was to become standard practice across Australian industry in later years. Rear Admiral Berlyn retired from the RAN in 1990. He was a keen yachtsman and took part in a number of yacht races following retirement.”
undertook training at the Royal College of Defence Studies in London. On return to Australia, he commenced work as General Manager of the Garden Island Dockyard in January 1984, becoming the last uniformed officer to hold this position before the dockyard was privatised.
In September 1984 Berlyn was promoted to Rear Admiral and continued to serve as the General Manager of the Garden Island Dockyard. In June 1987 he was appointed as an Officer in the Order of Australia (AO) in recognition of his service to the Royal Australian Navy as a Marine Engineer Officer, particularly as the General Manager of HMA Dockyard Garden Island.
In late 1967, Lieutenant Commander Berlyn was posted to the staff of the General Manager Garden Island Dockyard, firstly as the Superintendent Refit Planning and then as the Senior Project Planner. He was promoted to Commander in December 1967.
project cancellation, he became the Director of the Guided Missile Frigate Acquisition Project. Berlyn was confirmed in the rank of
Navy and President of the Naval Officers Club of Australia, writes:
In November 1965 he transferred to the RAN. His first posting in the RAN was as the Marine Engineer Officer in the destroyer HMAS Vampire during 19661967. During this time Vampire served extensively in South East Asian waters including escort duties to Vietnam and guard-ship duties in eastern Malaysia during the Indonesian Confrontation.
SIMON BRADBURY (49-51) passed peacefully at the Royal Cornwall Hospital on Tuesday 3rd March 2020, aged 84 years old. Beloved husband of the late Hilary Bradbury, he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
The family of the late Simon Peter Bradbury B.E.M. wish to thank relatives and friends who sent cards, messages of sympathy, gave offers of help and to those who attended the funeral service of their loved one. Grateful thanks also for donations received for Cancer Research UK. Special thanks to Reverend Tim Hawkins for conducting the graveside service and for his genuine, kind and thoughtful tribute to Simon. Special thanks also, to Vanessa, Rosalie and Ann for all their help, support and kindness given to Simon and to everyone who drove him to his appointments at the Sunrise Centre and to the staff who looked after him during his treatment. Grateful thanks also to all who visited and supported Simon during his time at Treliske, and to all the staff on Trauma Unit 2 who were so very caring and helpful. Also thanks to all at Sunnyside Surgery for their help and support over the years. Finally thanks to Mike, Jen, sons and team (Burroughs and Kearey, Funeral Directors, Rear of Barwis Terrace, Penzance) for being so helpful and in carrying out the funeral arrangements.
Captain Berlyn was then posted to the Navy Office in January 1980 as Chief Staff Officer Technical Services. Following promotion to Commodore in December 1980, he served at Williamstown Naval Dockyard in 198182 during a very difficult period when the lack of productivity at the dockyard was called into question several times in
“Nigel Berlyn was born in Plymouth, England on 26 August 1934 and was educated at The Nautical College, Pangbourne before entering the Royal Navy in May 1952 as an engineer officer. He served in a variety of Royal Navy establishments and ships and was promoted to Lieutenant in September 1956 and Lieutenant Commander in September 1964.
THE PANGBOURNIAN | IN MEMORIAM
85
InParliament.1983Berlyn
I valued Peter as a colleague in the science department, as a fellow housemaster and as a friend. He was indeed a forthright character; there was
KEVIN1960s
Peter was brought up in South Africa and became a teacher at Hilton College in what was then Natal where he met and assisted Richard Norris. As the apartheid regime intensified, Richard returned to England. Peter and his family followed some years later. Richard, by then teaching at Pangbourne, helped him to find a job at the College. The Norris family to this day remain close to the Lavaracks.
From 1967-69 Richard was staff commander of the Union-Castle flagship Windsor Castle before being promoted to captain and transferred to cargo ships in the British & Commonwealth Shipping Company. In 1972 he was elected a Younger Brother of Trinity House and during the 1970s also became a member of The Honourable Company of Master Mariners, a founder member of The Nautical Institute and a member of Southampton Master Mariners’ Club. In 1975 he came ashore to become Marine Superintendent for Union-Castle in Southampton. In 1978 he was seconded to Dar es Salaam as the British Shipping Lines’ Representative in Tanzania responsible for the onshore business of six companies. Interested in marine surveying, he returned to the UK in 1983 and joined a small marine survey company in Southampton, remaining with it until retirement.
taught Chemistry at the College for 25 years, died in Thatcham on April 22 2022 aged 79, after a long battle with cancer, as we were informed by his daughter Imke Watson. He left a wife Heidi and twin daughters.
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At Pangbourne, Peter Lavarack built up a strong reputation – “very much one of the team and a great supporter of the Wardroom” according to a colleague. A qualified rugby referee, he coached many sides and ran the 2nd XI hockey team for years. Known for his forthright views, he became Housemaster of Macquarie and Paramatta. Heidi worked full-time as a House Matron with the McBrooms in Port Jackson and as a much-appreciated Chapel flower arranger.
never any uncertainty or equivocation in his approach and you always knew exactly what he thought even if you didn’t always agree with him. For my part I admired the fact that he was usually far less bothered about what people thought about him than he was about the moral point he was trying to make. Peter grew up in a very different ethical landscape to most of us and clearly felt strongly enough about the injustices in South Africa to bring his family all the way to Britain. Perhaps this is why, in matters of fairness, humanity and humility, he was so rarely to be found away from the high ground.
Kevin O'Donovan (65-70)
O’DONOVAN (65-70)
At Pangbourne Kevin proved to be one of the outstanding Chief Cadet Captains of the College in the school’s history, holding the rank for three consecutive terms and winning HM The Queen’s Gold Medal in the summer term of 1970. In this role he proved to be crucial to the transformation of the Nautical College into Pangbourne College during Peter Points’ first year as Headmaster –something Peter acknowledged publicly on Founders’ Day 1970 in these words: “We had a leader of wholehearted devotion to Pangbourne.” As OP Chris Simond (62-66) puts it: “Peter needed an ally to guide him through the institution’s unusual methodologies, and in particular its naval traditions. Kevin led the way. Age was no barrier. The student and teacher relationship became temporarily reversed. They remained friends for decades.”
died in Sydney in May 2022, aged 70, after a ten-month battle with a rare and aggressive liver cancer. Courageously, and with typical good humour, he fought to the very end. A celebration of his life took place at the Surf Club in Avalon Beach in Sydney’s northern suburbs in early June. He left a wife Judy, two daughters by his first marriage and a grandson.
I must also add how much we all appreciated Heidi’s conscientious, calming and very caring influence as House Matron in Hesperus for over nine leavingyears.the NCP, he went into the MN with Clan Line and remained with it until 1950 when he transferred to the Union-Castle Mail Steamship Company.
(??-??) who
PETER1950sLAVARACK
At a time of financial turmoil for the College, Peter was controversially made redundant in 1997. He then showed his worth by becoming Head of Chemistry and Housemaster of the Junior House at Bearwood College. On retirement, Peter and Heidi settled in Thatcham; before long he was teaching Science at Brockhurst & Marlston House, a local prep Davidschool.Harris added:
England, he had married Jackie. In Johannesburg, the couple were known for throwing memorable parties, normally with some sort of theme. But the marriage did not last and in the 1990s a divorce followed. Seeking a new start, and after many business trips to Australia, he decided to move to Sydney about 20 years ago. Here he set up his own ship broking business, met and married his second wife Judy, and always lived by the maxim “Life is not a dress rehearsal. This is it.”. He retained many OP friends throughout his life. One of them, Jon Brakespear (64-68), paid him this tribute: “He was an immense character with a great sense of humour. He will be remembered with great affection by a great many people all around the world.”
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His met his partner Anne thanks to a common love for motorbikes and the river Thames. He was also a lifelong supporter of Arsenal FC. His son Ben, in a Eulogy given at Paul’s funeral, described him as “a remarkably hardworking and generous man…a person of great integrity and humour.”
(78-83) passed away peacefully at home on July 15, 2022 aged 57. He had been diagnosed with glioblastoma (an aggressive type of cancer that can occur in the brain or spinal cord) in 2019 and given 15 months to live. His brother Mark (77-80) writes that Paul “fought valiantly and did not complain during the almost continuous rounds of chemo, steroids and two surgeries. Three years later the disease finally won.”
DAVID HAYNES
PAUL1970s
Kevin’s penchant for leadership also was underlined on the sporting field by his captaincy, from the awkward position of loose-head prop, of the 1969 1st XV which won 11 of its 13 matches. This success, noted The Log, “amply reflected his powers of leadership. He rarely made a tactical error and was able to extract maximum effort from the whole team… He led from the front.” In addition, he was a key member of the talented 1970 1st VIII which, despite a disappointing Henley, was nevertheless the fourth fastest schoolboy crew in the U.K. that year. Later he represented London Rowing Club in the Wyfold IVs at Henley in 1973 together with another OP, Shaun Maynard (60-64). The following year, now working in shipping, Kevin followed Maynard out to South Africa and joined Ellerman & Bucknall Steamship Company in order to bring its business into the new world of containerisation. Tiring of this, in 1980 he joined Maynard at the ship brokers Peninsular Shipping in Johannesburg, later moving to a competitor shipbroker and basing in Cape BeforeTown.leaving
These were occasionally challenging times for Paul and at one point he was driving a cement mixer by day and a bread van at night to provide for his
Paul’s life outside work and his family. He joined his first lodge in 1998 and remained an active member throughout the remainder of his life, at one point helping to form a motorcyclist lodge in Hampshire, so combining two of his passions. One of his regrets, according to the Old Wellingtonian Lodge where he was an honorary member, was that Old Pangbournians did not have a lodge – something he was always seeking to Paulcorrect.married
soon after leaving Dartmouth and had three children.
young family. Eventually he found his way with Cadogan Tate, a specialist business founded in 1977 that moves, stores and cares for precious works of art and helps transfer expatriates. He ended up as Group Managing Director leading the company’s expansion across the UK and into the USA and Europe. In 2017 the company moved the Obamas out of the White FreemasonryHouse.became a dominant part of
Paul David Haynes
THE PANGBOURNIAN | IN MEMORIAM
At the College Paul rose to become a Cadet Captain in Macquarie Division and a member of the Upper VI form. He won the Trinity House Prize in 1983 and rowed for the 2nd VIII. He also played in the College orchestra, and sang in the choir and the Choral Society. At the College he was sponsored by the Fleet Air Arm to learn to fly before he could legally drive a car on the road. He went to BRNC Dartmouth from the College but, in his brother’s words, “the Royal Navy was not meant to be.” In 1984 he left and moved to Gosport and began a career in the moving business. Later he resettled in Aldershot.
As we look forward, our ambition is to raise £10 million in the next twenty years in time for our 125th anniversary celebrations in 2042. This will enable us to transform the lives of children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to join a community in which they can flourish.
Looking forward: Legacies
Our aim is to substantially increase our current transformational bursary provision. We aim to be able to offer more children access to a Pangbourne education, and to offer larger feeassistance to more
To everyone that has supported Pangbourne in the past year, thank you, however I do believe there is much more that can be done. In order to achieve the aims of the Development Plan, launching later in the year, we will need more support. More on this will be shared in the coming months.
Looking forward: Widening Access - Unleashing the power of bursaries
Developmentpupils.ReportTherecentCentenary
an excellent opportunity to highlight the current needs of the school; to celebrate successful alumni and to inspire current and future generations of Pangbournians.
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Despite Covid and an uncertain year last year, you have continued to support Pangbourne, for which we are extremely grateful. Generosity from donors has meant that families who have been struggling financially because of Covid could be helped.
In recent years we have been fortunate to receive three unexpected gifts totalling over £350,000 in the form of legacies: two from a OPs, the other from an Honorary OP. Their gifts will have a lasting impact on generations of Pangbournians.
From the Head of Development:
It is very much part of our DNA to help those without financial means to access an education at Pangbourne College, which is perhaps not widely acknowledged or advertised. Pangbourne currently supports 1 out of every 10 pupils through a range of means-tested fee assistance, known as bursaries.
Our mission is to be a caring community of learners in which all pupils can flourish regardless of their background and financial means.
in 2017 provided
What a year 2021/22 turned out to be. After the challenges of lockdown, the College and the Pangbournian community came back with a bang. In an action packed, event filled year we have seen new relationships forged, old friendships rekindled and a significant amount of support given to the College, for which I thank you.
As we look forward, in what appears to be uncertain times for us all, our aim is to work with donors and supporters of the College to continue to widen access to a Pangbourne education.
OLD PANGBOURNIANS
In 2017, as part of the Centenary celebrations, a new programme was introduced for any member of the Pangbourne community who wishes to remember Pangbourne College in their will. The Sir Philip Devitt Society (or Devitt Society for short) will be open to all those who chose to leave a legacy to Pangbourne and signal this intention to the College Development Office. The name of the society is in recognition of the contribution of the Devitt family, who through their own commitment to the school built a foundation which is now in its second century.
motivation behind leaving a bequest to the College.
The two founding members of the Devitt Society are both influential members of the Old Pangbournian Society. They have given vast amounts of time and energy to Pangbourne over the last few years: OP Society President Mr Mark Dumas (64-68) and Honorary Vice President Mr Richard Shuttleworth (57-62). Both were asked about their
“I got involved again with Pangbourne when my own sons were accepted, and have since been Chair, Secretary and President of the OP Society,” says Richard Shuttleworth. “To me the College has managed to keep the best of old values yet become a modern institution, thus remembering it in my will seems like the right thing to do. I hope others will be encouraged to do the same.”
Mark Dumas says, “I hope others might feel that some of their success in life is due to their time at Pangbourne. I think Pangbourne deserves some of the credit, and that is why the College will feature in my will.”
For more information, or to discuss any aspect of leaving a legacy, please get in contact with: Tim t:e:HeadHamiltonofDevelopment,tim.hamilton@pangbourne.com01189766697
Thank you
89 THE PANGBOURNIAN | DEVELOPMENT REPORT
The College would like to thank the members of the Pangbournian Community who have volunteered their time to help current pupils, Old Pangbournians, the Society and the College as a whole over the past year.
Your assistance has been hugely appreciated and never more so in these challenging times. While we have listed all those volunteers we know about, we do apologise if any names are inadvertently omitted. You have helped by: speaking at events; assisting at College careers events; taking part in focus groups or as part of an advisory board; contributing to the Magazine; running a professional, regional or international group; helping find work experience or internships; mentoring; taking part or running a sports team; and taking a position in a club committee.
Mr Mike Askwith, Mr Rhidian Llewellyn - Governor, Mr James Bamforth, Mr James Mackenzie, Mr Robin Batt, Mr Shaun Maynard, Mr Edward Bence, Mr David Metcalfe, Mr Rohan Batra - Governor, Mr James Minter, Mr Charles Bown, Miss Georgia Misson, Mr Conor Brown, Mrs Clare Morphy, Mrs Charlotte Butterworth - Governor, Mr Tony Morrow, Mr James Canham-Ash, Mr David Nicholson, Mr Louis Carrel, Mr Michael Nicholson, Maj. Gen. Tom Copinger-Symes, Mr Andrew Nzeyi, Mr Patrick Derham - Governor, Mr Charles Parry, Mr Richard Devitt, Mr Robin Paine, Mr William Donaldson, Mr Brian Painting, Ms Tarka Duhalde - Governor, Mr Charles Pettit, Mr Mark Dumas, Mr Roger Pike, Mr Courtney Edenborough, Mr Phillip Plato - Chair of the OP Society, Mr Paddy Evelegh, Mr Geoff Popple, Mr John Fisher, Mr Geoff Rae, Mr Giles Fuchs, Mr Merrick Rayner, Mr Nick Gillet, Mr Patrick Roberts MBE - Chair of Governors, Lt Col James Greaves, Mr Jeremy Sanders, Mr Alex Heaton, Mr Charlie Shillito, Mr Wayne Heyland, Mr Richard Shuttleworth, Mr Dan Holloway, Mr Andrew Scott-Priestley, Mr Colin Howard, Mr William Skinner, Mr Lawrence Howard, Mr Joe Spencer, Mr Theodore Isaacs, Mr Andrew Sumner, Mr Graham Jex, Mr Gyles Thornley, Mr Michael Keigwin, Lt Col Mike Wade-Smith, Mr Peter Kewish, Mr Andy Wells, Mr Robin Knight, Mr Ian Williams, Mr Adam Lewis
CURRENT AND FORMER PARENTS
Mr Matt Allen, Mrs Sarah Masters, Mr Jason Alexander, Mr David Mullins - Governor, Mrs Jo Baker, Mr Paul Nelson, Mrs Judy Bromfield, Mrs Jules Poole, Mrs Charlotte Butterworth, Mrs Sally Rossiter - Governor, Mrs Sue Carpenter, Mrs Lucy Shepherd, Mrs Sadie Clare, Mrs Caroline Skidmore, Mrs Tessa Costin, Mr Guy Slocombe, Mr Matt Evans, Mrs Leigh-Anne Swire-Thompson, Mrs Beth Farrow, Mrs Joanne Vousden, Mrs Linda-Jean Ford, Mr Charles Walters, Mrs Alex Garnier, Mrs Kelley Waters, Mr Jonathan Hebbes, Mrs Jayne Wells - Chair of PPA, Mrs Caroline Home, Mrs Corry Wilde, Mrs Yuk Keane, Mrs Abi Williamson, Mrs Heather Lewis
90UpcomingEvents You can register for upcoming events, check important information, and see what’s new at community.pangbourne.com/events Sat 01 October Arrow Trophy Sat 12 November Sat 15 October PPA 'Pirates' Ball Tue 11 October OP Society AGM Sat 29 October Sun 13 November PPA ChristmasCharityMarket Sun 25 September Sun 09 October Wed 28 September OP Golf Club vs CollegeCollege Sunday College Sunday OP Society Dinner OP ‘Veterans Day’
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Black Tie (Paravicinis may be worn) Accommodation is available
Airbnb Saturday 29th October 2022. Mess Hall, Pangbourne College Time: 6.15pm for 7.00pm Carriages: 11.00pm To book your tickets please visit: community.pangbourne.com/event/op-society-annual-dinner-2022 Old PangbournianDinnerSociety Join us at the
and
Tickets are now available to purchase, including discounted tickets for those Under 25. £49 per person £39 under
91
fee.
basis and
Includes: Pre Dinner Drinks Reception; 3 Course Dinner; Wine & Port; Coffee Cash Bar available for additional requirements
Guest Speaker: Iain Percy OBE, a double Olympic and multiple world champion, is one of the most talented successful sailors in the world. Iain is a founder of the Andrew Simpson [OP] Foundation whose mission is transforming lives through sailing. A donation of £5 per person is included to go to the ASF in lieu of a speaker’s
Dress: onsite (single on a first come, first served local including: The Elephant Hotel, The George and
Chairman Phillip Plato and the OP Society Committee warmly invite all Old Pangbournians and their spouses and partners to the Annual Dinner at the College on Saturday 29 October 2022.
25s
hotels
1943 Princess Elizabeth, inspects parade Thank you Ma'am