SHERBORNE PILGRIMS
Club colours can be obtained from the OSS Office, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3AP. Tel: 01935 810558. Email: oss@sherborne.org.
CLUB NOTES
In considering the state of the Club this year, my eye was drawn to two things: a summary of the squash team for the year (little squash played and the Londonderry Cup match conceded owing to no available team) and a note to the Committee from the School detailing the increased number of sports choices that boys can now make.
It has been evident for some years that a Club such as ours can only exist in today’s time-poor world with the enthusiasm, energy and efficiency of a dedicated group of Pilgrims, dispersed among a relatively small number of sports – in some cases, existing only for a few one-off fixtures. When that pool is very shallow, it is a big problem. Both the hockey and rugby teams have had issues with raising enough players for a full team, with similar commentary about an over-reliance on a generation that is only growing older.
The School is merely following a trend across independent schools to cater for a variety of different options rather than making the “major” sports broadly compulsory. A greater emphasis on safety across society has also been a factor, whether we like it or not. The implications for the Pilgrims may not be especially obvious for a few years but I suspect the Club will need to concentrate its resources where it can sustain regular teams in certain sports rather than expect to be able to put out teams across a broader range.
It is then incredibly important that when Pilgrims do coalesce as a team, they enjoy the contest and the company. Sport has made a difference in all of our lives, whether just at the School or for many years beyond, and remains one of the most powerful unifying forces. Not least in the modern era, where isolation and aggression seem too often to be present.
The good news is that where Pilgrims have been playing over the past year, they have competed hard on and off the pitch. Long may that continue. The footballers, after the setback of relegation the previous campaign, have regenerated strongly and there is discussion about a tour to Portugal in the autumn. It is perhaps the option of considering more tours that may be a salvation – the commitment, and financial outlay, makes them more likely to go ahead. And they are always good fun.
The Club’s finances are in good health – and on this point, it is right to acknowledge the contribution over many years of John Hargrove, who retired as
a trustee after a quarter of a century’s worth of stewardship. John became trustee after John Tallent stepped away (an extensive 40 years in the role bettered only by Charles Eglington) and his calm counsel has been constant since. He is succeeded by Rob Rydon, who somehow still seems to keep playing for the Club around four decades after he started!
I was also delighted to see that Anne Macfarlane was invited to become an Hon Member – and she accepted. Few have done more to nurture the link between the School and its old boys than Anne, whose good humour and deft organisation have sustained many an OS event. That enduring link makes such a difference to the Club in organising fixtures and identifying talent.
It was also good to learn that the new sports hall at the School commemorates the contribution made by one of the most influential of Sherborne’s games coaches. The Mike Davis Hall formally opened on June 22 this year, which ensures that AMD will, like G.M. Carey before him in the playing fields to the west of the Upper, be a name for Shirburnians to remember for all time.
Can I reissue the usual annual reminder about joining the Club, which is open to all OS, and which existing Club members can always remind their peers and acquaintances about. Please encourage anyone who wants to join this centenarian club to get in touch with Jonathan Powe, the Hon Secretary, whose details are at the back of the booklet.
My thanks once again to Ed Lyons for his vital work in putting this booklet together. Huge gratitude also to all match managers, whose hard work binds the present Club, an important role that is unpaid. One final notice: the Club AGM is due to be held in Sherborne on Saturday October 5 2024 at 12.15pm, before the XV play Taunton.
Robert Hands June 2024
NEW MEMBERS 2023
As leavers in July 2023:
H O B Alford (g), Z A C Banks (b), C A Bedford (d), M N A Cheshti (g), H F C Cheung (a), Y H Choo (e), M B Cornish (b), B D M Crawford (b), M J De Ruig (g), H J Deery (a), A C A Denham (e), O A A Denham (m), F N J N Ellemann (g), A M Firth (m), F G M Folkes (a), M A O Fowle (c), W P M Frost (b), C D H Furthmann (e), H P Gadeke (a), C S Golding (f), D E Gottardello Bodnar (f), F L D Hamilton (d), T D Heaver (f), M C M Hinde (f), A S Horton (a), T L Hunter (d), H H C Kingsbury (f), T M Lamb (e), T Lawson Johnston (b), M C M Lewis (a), J T Livingston Booth (g), L S Lo (a), J F J Macaskie (d), A J Mackenzie (g), H L Marriage (g), C R G Matthews (d), C E McLoughlin (g), K J Miah (f), F F Molesworth-St Aubyn (b), J W T Molloy (a), O D H Morgan (m), O S Nash (g),
T R M Northcott (c), M G R Parsons (d), J A G Peake (c), H B Pleydell-Bouverie (a), G Ratcliffe (e), G S Rawlings (a), L W C Reeve (f), F A Richardson (f), B P W Robertson (m), M G Rutherford (b), B R B Smith-Bingham (d), K H So (d), W T A Sowerbutts (g), F W J Springett (d), S E Stannah (m), T E Stephens (d), N C Stewart-Smith (b), H E G Swann (m), M D H Tennant (d), R H L Thomas (d), H E L Thomas (d), Y Tong (b), T P W Trickey (g), H W G Trudgeon (f), P A Tylor (g), E J Ursell (c), B A Walwyn (m), C G G Westmacott (c), S J Withers (f), O B Worthington (a), B Xu (b), J M G Young (e).
By application: T M H Hussey (m 08).
Honorary: J Priddle, Mrs A Lane, Mrs A Macfarlane.
OBITUARY
R W Dawnay (b 48), R D Draper (a 52), G H J Facer (Hon), B C G HoldingParsons (g 67), J C F Holman (g 55), I R Scott (g 61), C P Sharman (f 47), D A Smart (a 45).
MANAGERS
Cricket
Patrick Reynolds (07413 050902) pilgrimscricket@gmail.com
Cross Country
Harry Reynolds (07989 592853) pilgrims.crosscountry@gmail.com
Fives
Simon Stokes (07932 426388) stokesalert@gmail.com
Football
Jack Bridger (07720 836626) jack.bridger@hotmail.co.uk
Hockey
Alex Rydon (07554 681132) alexrydon@gmail.com
Rugby
George Syradd (07971 934247) syraddga@gmail.com
Charlie Harrison (07810 727145) charlie.harrison.work@gmail.com
Squash
Will Pope (07956 458763) willpope1988@hotmail.com
Tennis
James Sewry (07880 515882) jmsewry@gmail.com
THE EGLINGTON CUP
In memory of Charles Eglington who died in 2018 and who was such a tremendous supporter of the Pilgrims cause, the Committee inaugurated the Eglington Cup, to be awarded to an individual who has made a notable
contribution to Pilgrims sport. There is no requirement for it to be awarded annually and in the event it was not awarded in 2024.
CRICKET 2023
Played 10, Won 5, Lost 5.
Saturday May 13 v The School at Sherborne. Pilgrims 256-3 dec (J M T Caldwell 112*); The School 258-3. Lost by 7 wickets.
After weeks of rain and fixtures called off for the School, a green top and cloudy conditions with sun forecast in the afternoon pointed to winning the toss and
bowling. This the School did, a decision that showed immediate dividends. After facing only three balls, and just minutes before every known generation of his family turned up to watch, George Pope fell to a smart set-up from one of the School’s opening twins. This brought James Caldwell to the crease; one would usually say at a point earlier than a No 3 would have liked, but I hazard a guess that this wasn’t the case for Caldwell. This was a man who was excited to be back out on the Upper.
Caldwell and debutant Toby Talbot-Williams went about rebuilding, and did so with great confidence. Few chances were offered and the bad balls were put away. The highlight of the morning session was a delightful lofted cover drive for six by Talbot-Williams, aimed directly at the OS Day marquee and OS who, as is somewhat traditional, were largely ignoring what was a fantastic partnership. Talbot-Williams was to eventually fall for 46, but Caldwell would plough on, passing his 50 before the lunch break. Fuelled by lasagne and profiteroles, he began to score more freely, timing some beautiful cover drives down the hill for four.
He was joined by another debutant, Dom Helliwell, who, after a shaky start, soon got into his stride and supported the in-form batsman nicely. Shortly after Helliwell was rapped on the helmet and then dismissed in consecutive deliveries, Caldwell passed the hundred mark, which was greeted with elation from both the batsman, who was celebrating his first ton on England’s premier cricket ground, and by his team-mates, who appreciated what had been a fantastic knock, especially considering the tough early conditions. There were to be no fireworks to finish the 50 overs, though, as we finished on 256, which looked to be a very respectable score.
By mid-afternoon the pitch had browned and the sun was out, showing the Upper in all its glory. Batting looked a lot more inviting at 3pm than it had for Pope four hours earlier. This was demonstrated by the opening batsmen, who didn’t offer the opening partnership of Reynolds and Wills any chances. The scoring rate remained slow, but the pitch was offering precious little to the bowlers, and another tradition of the first Pilgrims game of the year, the copious number of extras we give away, was keeping the School on the required run rate. It was Henry Carr-Smith who caused the batsmen the most problems, with a skilful five overs from the top end.
Swinging the ball away from the right-hander, he had one edge fly between first and third slip and one catch at mid-wicket dropped. It was the leg spin of Ollie Palmer that got the initial breakthrough, channelling two years of drama school into a fierce send-off to a 15-year-old fifth former as he bowled him round his legs.
Falling with the score on the dreaded Nelson, the School were still 111 for one and had made a considerable dent in our total. This neared 200 before the fall of the next wicket as the School wrested control of the game. However, a truly fantastic over from Rob Rydon brought the game back in the balance. After dismissing the “in” batsman on 76, caught at mid-on, a sharp delivery two balls later bounced on the School captain and caught a feather edge through to Pope. While this gave us a glimmer of hope, the School ultimately got over the line in what was a very well-paced chase.
Sunday June 11 v Shrewsbury Saracens (Cricketer Cup first round) at Sherborne.
Shrewsbury Saracens 337-5 (50 overs); Pilgrims 243 (J M T Caldwell 84) (47.1 overs). Lost by 94 runs.
Batting first, the Saracens amassed a formidable total of 337 for five, thanks to an unbeaten century from one opener and some superb supporting innings of 87 and 54. Wickets were extremely hard to come by on what was a tough day for the Pilgrims bowlers. We made a spirited reply with James Caldwell hitting a superb 84. However, with no one sticking at it with him the game was all but over when he fell short of his century. We were all out for 243, with the wickets shared among all six Saracens bowlers. Ultimately it was a bowling performance
to forget and one must wonder how the game would have played out with a more attainable first innings target.
Sunday June 18 v Hampshire Hogs at Warnford. Hampshire Hogs 289-5 dec (O Kelly 74); Pilgrims 130-2. Match abandoned, rain.
Saturday July 1 v The School at Sherborne. The School 138; Pilgrims 140-9. Won by 1 wicket.
The Commem Day T20 has become a tricky fixture in recent years, sandwiched between the increasingly lengthy Lists and house lunches and the Leavers Ball. This was evident as the Pilgrims had no option but to bowl at the four outgoing Shirburnians who had managed to arrive on time. Two wickets from Reynolds in the first over affirmed that those leavers in attendance may have enjoyed their house lunches a little too much. Thankfully for the School their No 4 made a very smartly made 54. This combined with 25 wides from some wayward Pilgrims middle order bowling helped the School to limp to a below-par 138 with two wickets each from Henry Carr-Smith, Charlie Taylor and Pat Reynolds.
It was a poor start in response from the Pilgrims, with wides again being the most prolific scorer. Helliwell looked good early on but fell for 14. When Jono Franke was caught and bowled for a duck, we were on the ropes at 43 for five. As the game progressed, the runs came but a steady fall of wickets kept the game on a knife-edge. Twenty-one was needed off the last two overs. A well-made 34 from 15 balls from captain Reynolds was the defining innings as we won the game off the very last ball.
Sunday July 2. The Stour Cup at Clayesmore. Canford Cygnets 151-3; Pilgrims 152-3 (O Palmer 116*). Won by 7 wickets.
In the first game of the annual Stour Cup between the four Dorset cricket powerhouses, we played the Canford Cygnets. Honours were even after the first innings: while both opposition openers made skilful half-centuries, none were at a blistering rate. Extremely economical figures of four overs, one maiden, nought for eight from Jono Franke prevented what was a good start getting away from us as the opposition made their way to 151.
The second act belonged to budding Hollywood superstar and Harper House Drama colours recipient Ollie Palmer who produced one of the great Week innings. With the second highest score in the team being Will Smibert’s 16, Palmer single-handedly sent the Canford bowlers to most of Dorset on his way to a simply incredible 116 not out. The game was won with only 12.1 overs on the board and no one was in any doubt about who would walk away with the player of the match.
v Bryanston Butterflies (Final). Pilgrims 158-5; Butterflies 161-7. Lost by 3 wickets.
The final began as the semi-final had ended, Palmer immediately putting his stamp on the game with more sublime hitting alongside Smibert. However, when Palmer was caught on the boundary trying to reach his fifty in style, the Pilgrims innings began to lose momentum. Parnell and F Taylor made starts, but failed to kick on – something that was perhaps indicative of the Pilgrims innings as a whole: not bad, but a good bowling performance was required.
Having starred in the semi-final with his impressive economy rate, Franke was handed the new ball. Yet when his first over went for double what his four overs in the previous game went for, the Pilgrims became acutely aware that this was a different game. Seam wickets were hard to come by as the opposition finished the power play cruising at 78 for no wicket. The spin duo of Oli Carr-Smith and Ferg Taylor threatened to disrupt what was looking like a comfortable Bryanston victory. Three wickets for each of them in the middle overs threw the game back into the balance. Bryanston, however, weathered the storm and kept the scorer busy as they limped over the line seven down with a couple of overs to spare.
Monday July 3 v Sherborne Town at the Slopes. Sherborne Town 171-7; Pilgrims 172-2. Won by 8 wickets.
The Town’s innings never really got going against a tenacious attack which gave little away and their score was below par in the conditions. This was rammed home by Ferg Taylor who, eschewing any pretence at finesse, bludgeoned the Town’s attack into submission. An easy win if truth be told.
Tuesday July 4 v MCC. Cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.
Wednesday July 5 v Bryanston Butterflies at Sherborne (50-over match). Bryanston 128; Pilgrims 130-2 (J E B Walliker 53*). Won by 8 wickets.
After the washed-out MCC fixture the day before, we arrived at the Upper hungry to play some cricket. This hunger showed in the early overs as Walliker steamed in down the hill, hitting the Bryanston skipper multiple times on the torso in his first over. It was the sluggish bowling of Reynolds, however, that got the early breakthroughs, having both openers caught, one at point and one behind. This was followed by the metronomic Billy Stevens who, having received some early tap, removed Nos 3 and 4.
It was at this point that we realised the lack of depth in the opposition’s batting line-up and decided to demonstrate our own bowling depth in order to attempt to give us a score to chase. Nine bowlers were used in total, something that can only be testament to the barge yards in the four represented houses: Green, Harper, Lyon and Digby. The highlight for the home side was Johnny Lye, a selfproclaimed non-cricketer who decided the safest action to bowl would be leg spin through and round the wicket. Lye was unlucky to remain wicketless as the
nine bowlers shared the wickets relatively easily. Despite our bowling largesse, the Bryanston innings limped to 128 all out.
Bryanston got off to the perfect start, but they had to rely on a Shirburnian (Max Dangerfield (L6, m) whom they had brought in as a ringer, to do so. This involved the removal of the often dangerous Luke McLaughlin leg-before with the first ball of the innings. This was to be the only highlight for the travelling side, as Ferg Taylor’s brute strength and Jonty Walliker’s long handle took the Bryanston attack to all parts of the ground in what began to look like a range hitting contest. The scoring was not only brutal, but also extremely efficient as the hundred was passed in an eighth over that went for 26 runs, including four consecutive sixes from Taylor. There was a changing of the guard in the ninth over as Walliker retired and Taylor was caught two shy of his half-century. However, the run rate did not stem as Tom Pope, seemingly needing no sighters, hit four elegant fours in one over to polish the game off in nine overs.
Thursday July 6 v Clayesmore Cormorants at Clayesmore (50-over match). Pilgrims 119; Clayesmore 120-6. Lost by 4 wickets.
An away game at Clayesmore always offers somewhat of a dichotomy. Where there is always a fantastic lunch on offer, the wicket is rarely a pleasant experience. The infamous Clayesmore “snake pit” had another vintage day on the Thursday of the Week with 16 wickets falling for a mere 239 runs. The difficulty of the wicket was not immediately apparent as the Pilgrims, batting first, began scoring cautiously and without risk. In contrast to his fireworks the day before, Fergus Taylor was playing a much more pedestrian innings alongside Tom Gibbs, blocking out the good balls and scoring the occasional boundary.
The first nine overs were seen off without hiccup for 37 runs. Gibbs was the first to go, which brought Sherborne gap student Dex Kelly to the crease, who continued with this measured method of attack, dealing solely in singles. The contrast with the explosive demolition of Bryanston the previous day was striking. With Kelly and Taylor removed the floodgates were opened and one of the Pilgrims’ infamous collapses was under way. Alfie Reynolds, Andy Nurton, Simon Lamb, Patrick Reynolds, George Whipple and the Denham twins all fell, largely to somewhat mediocre deliveries, all without troubling the scorers too much. It was only the unorthodoxy of Hector Hohler’s tennis-style batting that proved problematic for the Cormorants as he remained undefeated on 13 as we limped to 119.
Well lunched, we felt up to the challenge of defending our underwhelming total. It was clear from the previous innings and from Reynolds’ opening spell that it wasn’t a seamer’s wicket. The wrist and finger spin combination of Taylor and Lamb then got to work. It was Lamb who made the initial inroads into the Clayesmore top order, claiming their Nos 2, 3 and 5. When Taylor athletically caught and bowled the No 6, the Pilgrims were well and truly in the fight. However, the opposition No 4, who had played with great maturity all day, was to be the thorn in the Pilgrims’ side as the home side got over the line to win by
four wickets. A simple case of not enough runs on the board for the Pilgrims on a day where 170 could well have been enough to get the win.
Friday July 7 v Canford Cygnets at Sherborne (45-over match). Canford 171 (S J Lamb 5-32); Pilgrims 172-2 (F E Taylor 51*). Won by 8 wickets.
Having bowled so well against us as a ringer for the Bryanston Butterflies two days previously, Max Dangerfield seemed like a suitable fill-in for the Pilgrims on the final day of the Week against Canford Cygnets. This selection paid off in just the first over as he cleaned up their opening bat with a fast-paced seaming delivery. This was followed up by two maidens in what was a superb opening spell. At the end of the power play the hosts had scored 34 runs after some tight bowling from both Dangerfield and Reynolds.
Dex Kelly’s slow left-arm bowling followed Dangerfield from the top end in what was a delicious spell of off break bowling. The ball was metronomically pitched in the right area as the bat was seemingly beaten a couple of dozen times. Kelly was unlucky to only get the one wicket and had the slip catching from his captain been better, he might have got two or three more. Kelly was supported superbly by James Crawford from the bottom end, who was unlucky to remain wicketless.
While the game never got away from the Pilgrims, with economical bowling leaving Canford behind a respectable run rate all game, it was the second change bowling of Simon Lamb that turned the game around. After six tight overs within which he took one wicket, a sharp caught and bowled of the Canford No 4 in his seventh over opened the floodgates as he bowled the opposition 8, 9 and 10 in the space of two overs to wrap up a superb five-for and dismiss Canford for 171.
The opening partnership for the Pilgrims was unchanged from the previous day’s defeat, however on a much better wicket, the approach was much more attacking. Both Gibbs and Taylor got straight to work, needing very few sighters. The scoring was aggressive in two contrasting styles; Gibbs used his height well to crack some imperious cover drives for four and Taylor used his power to display some signature range hitting. Gibbs fell for 43 in the sixth over, however the score has already passed 70 and the chase was well under way. McLaughlin fell cheaply for the second time in two innings for the Pilgrims which brought Seb Carty to the crease. Despite returning from injury, Carty had lost none of his touch and played a very controlled innings. Taylor’s retirement after passing 50 brought Fred Harden to the crease, who made a well-crafted 24 alongside Carty to get the Pilgrims over the line within 23 overs.
Sunday July 16 v Old Wellingtonians at Wellington (40-over match). Pilgrims 257-6 (W M Smibert 95); Old Wellingtonians 259-8. Lost by 2 wickets.
In a thrilling encounter at Wellington College we batted first on a slightly sticky and two-paced pitch. However, we managed to set a strong platform, thanks to a
fantastic opening partnership of 50 or so off ten overs between George Ellwood and Charlie Millar.
As the innings progressed Will Smibert took centre stage with the bat and thanks to two very simple drops, managed to score 95 runs off around 25 overs. Great support was received from Carline, Reynolds and Ellwood, all contributing valuable runs to the total.
We posted a competitive score of 257, bolstered by the impressive efforts of our top-order batsmen and late blows from the middle order. Our innings showcased resilience and skill in navigating the tricky conditions, setting a target that Wellington would have to chase down on a pitch playing a few tricks.
In the second innings, we displayed some prowess in the field taking early wickets thanks to a three-for from Whipple and a couple from Ellwood. They managed to restrict Wellington’s scoring, taking wickets just when partnerships started forming. The fielding was top-notch, with two catches being taken by Gibbs and some outstanding efforts from the Perkins brothers in the field.
Despite a valiant effort by us Wellington managed to stage a remarkable comeback in the dying moments of the game. Their lower-order batsmen showed great determination and big hitting, guiding their team to a dramatic victory in the last over of the match. It was a tough loss to take as we had fought hard throughout. However, we can take pride in our impressive batting performance and spirited fielding display.
Sunday August 27 v Eton Ramblers at Eton No information available.
CRICKET FIXTURES 2024
Sat May 11
The School (h) Pat Reynolds 07413 050902
Sun June 9 Malvern (a)
Cricketer Cup 1st Round By invitation only
Sun June 16 Hampshire Hogs (a) Ollie Palmer 07557 471487
Sun June 23
The School (h) Pat Reynolds 07413 050902
Sun June 30 Cricketer Cup 2nd Round By invitation only
The Tour (July 7-12) Pat Reynolds 07413 050902 for all Tour fixtures.
Sun July 7 Stour Cup Clayesmore / Bryanston (tbc) T20
Mon July 8 Sherborne Town (a) Evening T20
Tues July 9 MCC (h)
Wed July 10 Bryanston (h)
Thu July 11 Clayesmore (h)
Fri July 12 Canford (a)
Sun July 21 Wellington (a) Will Smibert 07450 898789
Sun August 25 Eton Ramblers (a) Jono Franke 07709 595656
Match managers: Names and numbers detailed above.
RUGBY 2023-24
Touch rugby sessions on Clapham Common during the summer months have become somewhat of a pre-season for the Pilgrims team in recent years and preparations for the 2023-24 season were no different.
The first opportunity to test these preparations was against the East India Club in Barnes and the physicality of the game from the beginning left the opposition with a depleted squad through injury. So much so that a number of Pilgrims had to switch teams but despite a bolstering of their squad, the Pilgrims team produced an impressive performance in the hot weather, securing a 50-12 win. The standout performance came from debutant Nick Jonas although there were plenty of other notable performances from some of the more junior members of the team.
The second game was against London Business School in Regent’s Park. Somewhat of a staple, the fixture has often provided the opportunity for all members of the squad to demonstrate aspects of their attacking game that they wouldn’t typically be known for and to get on the score sheet. This particular encounter, however, was rather different and we were on the back foot from the very beginning against a strong London Business School team. Discipline almost cost us the game with a total of four yellow cards being given to Pilgrims players – for eight minutes of the second half we were playing with 13 players on the pitch. The game came down to the final play with the hosts simply needing
to kick the ball into touch to secure a historic (first ever) victory against the Pilgrims. A moment of madness from the opposition wing and some strong defensive work from George Syradd returned possession to the Pilgrims team on their own 22 and anyone watching on the sideline just got that feeling of what was about to happen. Twenty-five to thirty
phases later and we had only just made it to the halfway line but a break in the defensive line provided a 50-metre sprint race with the try being scored under the posts. The game finished 20-18 and it is safe to say that spirits were high in the clubhouse after.
Unfortunately, 2024 fixtures against Marlborough, Radley and a rematch against London Business School were all cancelled through a combination of pitch conditions and opposition squad numbers meaning that despite there having been unusually few fixtures, the Pilgrims finished the 2023-24 season unbeaten. A first ever.
The team/management now look ahead to the 2024-25 season which offers some exciting changes to the club, including a new leadership team in George Syradd and Charlie Harrison. James Capel and Charlie Leach will remain involved but will no longer hold the top jobs.
HOCKEY 2023-24
Sun March 17 v The School at Sherborne. Won 6-4.
It is always a pleasure to be back on the Hughie Holmes pitches for the chance to play against the School. A slight change in format meant that other than field a variety of sides, there was just the one fixture this year against the School 1st XI which was a welcome change for some Pilgrims of maturer age on what was a very warm morning. As always, we clicked as if playing together for years, linking together some lovely passes. It was a brilliant attacking, high scoring game of hockey with us coming out eventual winners 6-4.
Jack Humphries
FOOTBALL 2023-24
Played 18, Won 5, Drawn 4, Lost 9.
With a whole new Pilgrims football “board” and a revolutionised playing squad, with the average age dropping from 28 to 25, the target for the boys this season was to finish mid-table in our 22-game season.
With intermittent availability pre-Christmas, the team struggled for consistency in both performance and regularity, resulting in an exit from both cups and a bottom half league position. During this period, a clear highlight was when we took eventual Arthur Dunn Cup winners Old Reptonians – a team four divisions above us – to extra time in the quarter-finals.
With multiple first team players returning from injury post-Christmas, we saw an uptick in performances, building a solid base for a mid-table finish. Despite this, the team were relegated on the last day of the season on goal difference, meaning we will now be playing our football back in Division 4.
However, with a new-look side from the back-to-back promotion side of 2021, and a brilliant team ethos, the future is only bright. The team have set a very achievable target of automatic promotion back to Division 3, as well as winning the DWT Cup.
Player of the season Dan Kendall was a rock at the back all year, winning many dubious penalties when he ventured further up for corners. Rookie of the season Tom Perkins bought new life to the front three, with some incredible solo goals, including a run from the halfway line while beating four players that brought him the goal of the season. Clubman of the season Harry Prentice has been an excellent addition to the squad. He played the most games and has quickly become the Club’s version of Vinnie Jones.
As our numbers begin to swell once more, we are always on the look-out for new players, with a view to developing a second team in the near future, so please reach out if you’d like to get involved.
I thank all those Pilgrims, past and present, for their commitment and passion that they have for, and continue to show to, Pilgrims football.
Jack Bridger
FIVES 2023-24
Saturday February 24 v The School
This was the year we tried a new format for our annual match with the School. Rather than play against them, we paired up with them and ran a doubles tournament. Eight Pilgrims were involved, and it was good to see a few old faces returning to the courts. As we stepped on court at 1pm so much lay ahead of us: a round robin group stage, main tournament and a plate. The teams had been seeded and the overall format seemed to produce some very close matches although that was at least in part because the boys played extremely well. Everyone enjoyed at least five games. Thanks to Nick Scorer and the boys for such an excellent afternoon of fives.
Simon Stokes
No fixtures.
SQUASH 2023-24
Will Pope
TENNIS 2023
Saturday May 13 v The School. Won 8-1.
Once again, on the occasion of OS Day, blue skies greeted the Pilgrims as they returned to Dorset for their annual fixture against the School. The Pilgrims have recently enjoyed the fruits of fielding strong teams for this particular fixture, winning the 2021 and 2022 instalments 9-0, and this year was no different, with a robust team comprising Pilgrims debutants Sebastian Barber (g 10) and Andrew Williamson-Jones (b 89), plus stalwarts Nick Lamb (d 94), Archie Leng (c 10), Henry Field (c 16) and James Sewry (d 14). Our ranks were further bolstered by one Sebastian Fender (c 16) owing to an oversight in pressing “send” on his RSVP! A splendid afternoon of tennis, the best rubber being that between Lamb/Williamson-Jones and the School’s first pair, Alex Williamson-Jones and Billy Baker –bright lights for the future. As far as the present author is aware, this father-son contest represented a first for Pilgrims tennis. Competitive throughout, in this instance the junior Williamson-Jones prevailed, taking the set with Baker 7-5. This proved to be the School’s only win, with the Pilgrims storming home to a 8-1 victory.
Sunday June 11 v Weymouth Lawn Tennis Club. Won 8-1.
Saturday July 1 v Sherborne Lawn Tennis Club. Drew 4.5-all.
Sunday August 6 v The Hurlingham Club. Lost 11-4.
Tennis Fixtures 2024
Sat April 7 D’Abernon Cup Qualifying (Reed’s School)
Sat April 27
Sat May 11
Mixed doubles with Sherborne Old Girls
Sherborne School 1st VI (OS Day)
Sun May 26 Horsley Sports Club
Sun June 9 Weymouth Tennis Club
Sat June 29 Sherborne Tennis Club (Commem)
Sun August 4 The Hurlingham Club
James Sewry
CROSS COUNTRY 2023-24
Our season had started earlier than usual, with the Wimbledon Alumni Race being held on September 17 rather than in early December. Despite a much smaller than normal turnout, the team put up a good showing, winning back the V50s Trophy with a standout performance from Peter Woodburn (5th). In the general category we were placed 10th, just in front of Milton Abbey, courtesy of our 4th finisher, Simon Barker, who had beaten Milton Abbey’s 4th finisher by one position. Following the Alumni Race we managed (for possibly the first time) to send two teams to the annual Hyde Park 5k Relays on February 11. Team A (Harry Reynolds, Tom Hole and Harry Lane, twice), came 5th in a very competitive field in 66:30. Team B (Oli Millar, John Shaw, Arthur Drake and Tom Hole again) finished a very respectable 21st out of nearly 40 male teams, in 78:13. An excellent day all round with some very impressive individual times including a sub-16 minute 5k from Tom. A few Pilgrims took part in the School’s annual race at Sherborne Castle on February 25.
Harry Reynolds
OLD SHIRBURNIAN GOLFING SOCIETY
GL Mellin Salver June 29-30 2023
Beat Loretto; beat Felsted; lost to Oundle in semi-final.
With our strongest Mellin team for some time, we started with optimism. The first round was against Loretto who, fortunately for us, were not as strong as their current Hewitt team. We just lost the top match who were not at their best on the 18th. Whalley and Neville played quite well, winning 3 and 2, and were surprised to see the last match still playing after being 6 up. In the end they sealed the match with a good four at the 16th and we were able to walk in for an early lunch.
In the second round we played Felsted and had more drama. The top match continued to have trouble with the greens and lost their match again on the 18th. Whalley and Neville were not playing well in the afternoon but managed to scramble a par on the 17th having been in the fairway bunker off the tee to win 2 and 1. All was down to the last match who were one up on the 18th. A bad drive off the tee made the 18th hard work and so it was off to the 19th. The tension was visible and the first two extra holes were halved. Then a great drive on the 21st followed by an excellent seven-iron created a simple par four on the long third hole and won the match.
The semi-final against Oundle could not have been closer. Francis and Martin were all square after 18 and off down the 19th where they normally used to win
in the Hewitt. Neville and Whalley were one up going up 18 and just managed to make a five from the greenside bunker to win the match. Aubin and Mather were dormy two down but won the 17th with a par. Sherborne had a glimmer of hope when the opposition looked to be in a fairway bunker 70 yards from the pin but they had cleared it. A bogey five by the opposition was enough to secure the win. At the same time the top pair were walking in from the 20th hole having lost.
Grafton Morrish October 6 2023 at Hunstanton (3 pairs)
First round, bye. Second round, lost to George Heriot’s 2 and 1.
Peter Burles Salver 2023 (Over 65).
First round, beat Loretto. Second round, beat Felsted. Semi-final, lost to Oundle.
Our 65 Burles team, all of whom played in the same School team back in the day, consisted of Jos Whatley-Smith, Michael Wilson, Michael Craigen and Michael Farley. In the first round against Loretto, the top pair came through a tight match to win 2 and 1 but the second pair were never troubled and cruised through 7 and 6. In the second round, we played Felsted and both pairs won easily 5 and 4.
The semi-final against Oundle was more of a struggle. Top pair Whatley-Smith and Wilson never got going and lost 6 and 5. Second pair Farley and Craigen were three down after four holes. They then halved the fourth in birdies to remain three down before reeling off a string of wins to eventually go one ahead after 11.
The 12th should have been another win but a miraculous bunker shot by the opposition from the greenside bunker meant we remained only one up. The 13th was also halved, and then it went downhill.
Farley and Craigen lost the 14th easily before the opposition put their tee shot on the par-three to three feet of the hole; another lost hole. A solid par at the 16th by the opposition was enough to put the match two down, and with the top pair already lost, the result in the format was a certain loss for the team.
Bunny Millard Salver 2023 (Over 75).
First round, beat Bedford. Semi-final, beat Haileybury. Final, lost to Oundle.
Our first pair, Mark Cannon-Brookes and John Youngman, qualified comfortably in the leading four pairs to progress to the matchplay semi-final. Our second pair, David Dinkeldein and Ian Webb-Wilson, were fourth equal but could not qualify owing to the one pair per school rule. Cannon-Brookes and Youngman defeated Haileybury 5 and 4 in the semi-final but succumbed by 4 and 3 to Oundle in the final, thus losing to Oundle for the third successive year.
Blackwell Foursomes invitational 2023 (3 pairs)
Beat Oxford/Cambridge Society; lost to Hoylake; lost to Wigorns.
Alba Trophy 2023
We failed to progress from the first round.
Brent Knoll Bowl April 6-7 2024 at Burnham & Berrow
Burnham & Berrow Golf Club once again kindly hosted our side along with 15 other teams for this year’s Brent Knoll Bowl. Robin Irving, back in a playing capacity as skipper, picked out a wonderfully balanced side of youth and experience. Joined by “Storm Kathleen” for the opening day’s play against the Army GS, our lads sadly lost 1-2 in brutal conditions, though with a small silver lining of Wynn Thomas claiming a point on his debut, shepherded by Phil Hodges. Knocked into the Plate they then faced the DUGS (Dublin University Golfing Society), who effectively turned out to be the Portmarnock GC “scratch team” with a combined team handicap of +7. Inevitably our boys were dispatched 0-3 and the campaign was over.
Team: J R E Irving (captain), E T Elliot-Square, H S Gill, P J Hodges, W D Thomas, H J Williams.
Halford Hewitt Cup Centenary April 11-14 2024 at Royal St George’s
This year we drew Merchiston at Royal St George’s and were first out at 7.45am on one of the first dry days of the year. Merchiston are of a similar rank to us, and a tough match lay ahead. The course was in the best shape it has been for a long time, with a new greenkeeper getting the greens in good shape. Our side was ranked eight out of 64 schools over the past five years, but every game is now difficult. Pralle and Rotheroe were up on the front nine but let it go around 8-11 to lose 2 and 1 at first pair. Elliot-Square and Williams played very well to win 5 and 4 which tied the game. Francis and Kelly never really got going and struggled with the short game losing 3 and 2 at fourth pair and a similar story was true of Couzens and Gillett who also lost 3 and 2 at fifth pair. This meant Curtis and Zakaria picked up for a half on the 18th. This team can compete with any team on its day but next year will need more practice and it will be more competitive with the arrival of new players and the return of a few older players. 2024 was the centenary of the Halford Hewitt, which remains the largest scratch amateur tournament in the world. Deal flew the 64 flags down the 1st hole which runs parallel to the clubhouse and hosted a drinks party on the Wednesday night. Many members of the Society came to support, and on behalf of the team we would like to thank them.
Team: P J L Martin (non-playing captain), T J Couzens, G O Curtis, E T ElliotSquare, R A R Francis, S Gillett, E R S Kelly, J B D Pralle, T H Rotheroe, H J Williams, Z Zakaria and J R E Irving (reserve).
SCHOOL CRICKET 2023
Played 13, Won 6, Drawn 1, Lost 6.
The 2023 season saw exactly a century of matches played, from Mini Colts C up to 1st XI, of which some two thirds resulted in Sherborne victories. The 1st XI was a young side, including third former Fergus O’Connell (c) and three fifth formers, and the team won just under half of its matches. Victories were achieved over Free Foresters, Millfield, the Pilgrims, Bryanston (twice) and St Peter’s, Adelaide.
Millfield were bowled out for just 67, whilst the 50-over victory over Bryanston was by the huge margin of 194 runs! The final match of the season saw the boys play out a hard-fought draw against MCC, for whom messrs Pardoe and Reynolds were key figures. Two players made their way on to the 1st XI Honours Board: the Captain of Cricket, Cameron Golding (f), did it twice in consecutive days with his century against St Peter’s and his five wickets against MCC, while Barney Talbot-Williams (a) scored a century in the same match. Both Cameron and Barney will therefore be the guests of MCC at Lord’s next year.
Elsewhere, pride of place must go to the unbeaten Mini Colts B team, while the Mini Colts A XI reached the Dorset County Cup final, unusually played in September. Individually, there were centuries for Hugo Osborne (f) and Patrick Reynolds (e), and the following bowlers picked up five-wicket hauls: Casper Bridge (f), Oliver Livingston Booth (g) and Arthur Dunning (m), while James Hambly (a) achieved a hat-trick against Milton Abbey. Another highlight of the year was our inaugural Ruth Strauss Foundation Cricket Week. At the end of the season, we were sorry to say farewell to three coaching stalwarts of Sherborne cricket – Alex Hayes, Matt Pardoe and Andy Nurton, whose career encompasses a massive 75 terms, as pupil, Pilgrim, coach and former master-in-charge.
Outside it is raining but as Neville Cardus famously commented, “There can be no summer in this land without cricket” and soon the season will be upon us once again. It will start with the 1st XI playing at the Bradfield Festival in early April and will end in the final week of June with an expanded Ruth Strauss Foundation Cricket Week. This will see some 25 matches played over six days, culminating in the 1st XI’s final match of the term against MCC.
Batting: F J O’Connell 258 at 43.00; C S Golding 310 at 33.63; B G TalbotWilliams 292 at 29.20; M Boardman-Hirst 192 at 27.92. Bowling: C S Golding 14 at 21.92; R H L Thomas 10 at 22.90; M R D Dangerfield 12 at 31.33. Hugh Tatham
SCHOOL CRICKET FIXTURES 2024
Sat April 20 Marlborough (a) Thur May 16 Clayesmore (h)
Sun April 21 Free Foresters (h) Sat May 18 Clayesmore (a)
Wed April 24 Exeter School (a) Sat June 8 Canford (h)
Sat April 27 Taunton (h)
Thur May 2 Canford (a)
Tues May 7 Bryanston (a)
Sat May 11 Pilgrims (h)
Sat June 15 King’s Taunton (h)
Sat June 22 Blundell’s (h)
Sun June 23 Pilgrims (h)
Tues June 25 St Andrew’s College
Thur June 27 MCC
SCHOOL RUGBY 2023-24
Played 10, Won 2, Lost 8.
The senior squad had the opportunity to enhance their preparation for the rugby season with a three-day camp at Loughborough University. Here, they utilised state-of-the-art facilities and focused on physical, technical and tactical aspects of the game while also fostering team bonding among new and existing players.
The rugby programme at the School continues to thrive, even with the ongoing scrutiny the sport gets within the media, evidenced by the fielding of multiple teams, including a 5th XV, U16C and U15D team, with more than 350 boys participating. The new sports centre, equipped with a boys-only performance gym, has been instrumental in supporting the athletic development of players, particularly the 1st XV and A teams. Additionally, the implementation of video analysis software has enhanced players’ understanding of the game’s principles, contributing to their overall growth and improvement.
The young 1st XV experienced a mixed season, characterised by moments of resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges, the team demonstrated marked improvements throughout the season. Notable victories against Bryanston (12-10) and Marlborough (17-11) underscored the team’s potential and ability to compete at a high level.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the season was the significant involvement of lower sixth and fifth form players in the 1st XV, with most match day squads comprising 75 per cent of the younger years. Five U16 players made their debut, indicating a promising future for the team. This influx of young talent not only enriches the squad but also provides valuable experience for these players as they continue to develop their skills and contribute to the team’s success.
We were pleased that some for the XV represented the School in external pathways, with two players representing Bath U18 and three boys being selected to represent the Independent School Lambs National Squad.
Despite facing challenges this season, the XV demonstrated commendable resilience, determination and improvement throughout the season. A special mention must go to the 1st XV captain, Ed Elwell, who raised the standards and behaviours of the XV. Captaining a winning side can be easy, but Ed showed unwavering commitment to maintaining morale, resilience and perseverance, along with going above and beyond to elevate the cultural standards of the XV, which truly set him apart. With continued dedication to training, development, and team cohesion, the team is well-positioned for success in the upcoming season.
Chris Smith
SCHOOL RUGBY FIXTURES 2024
Sat Sept 7 Canford (h)
Sat Sept 14 Marlborough (a)
Thur Sept 19 King’s Taunton (h)
Sat Sept 28 Millfield (a)
Sat Oct 5 Taunton (h)
Thur Oct 17 Dauntsey’s (h)
Sat Nov 9 Marlborough (h)
Sat Nov 16 Cheltenham (a)
Thur Nov 21 Bryanston (a)
Sat Nov 30 Radley (h)
Sat Dec 7 Canford (a)
SCHOOL HOCKEY 2024
Played 16, Won 4, Lost 12.
The Michaelmas term saw the boys participate in indoor tournaments but, despite not progressing, they showed real promise and hopefully with continued play through Trinity term with a tournament at Wellington School, this should put us in a strong position for next year. We have now joined up to train with Sherborne Girls in the Michaelmas term which is providing a great link between the schools.
In the Lent term, it has been an extremely busy first half of term with the usual mix of national competitions and friendly block fixtures. We were extremely unlucky to draw Whitgift in the first round of the U19 cup, which showed the 1st XI where the standard is set.
The U16s have dropped down into the plate and have an upcoming fixture against Canford in the third round. The U18s had a narrow loss to King’s, Bruton drawing 0-0 with the match going down to sudden death shuffles and just missing out.
We are trying to restore the hockey programme, so there is a real drive to make it as fun and engaging as possible. There is optimism for next year when both the 1st XI and U16s teams should be stronger and hopefully this will attract more boys to play.
With hope of making one-to-one sessions throughout the year a possibility and playing hockey for the three terms, this should raise the standard of play.
Fraser Henderson
SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2023-24
Once again football was played in the Michaelmas term by a squad of 18 boys in the competitive Wessex Independent Schools League. This year’s squad had big shoes to fill from the winning group of last year. Indeed, it also transpired that Millfield and Canford both had very strong teams. This led to some thrilling games both home and away. Sherborne finished third in the league, with Canford being crowned champions.
Also in Michaelmas term, we entered the ISFA Cup and Shield competitions for the U15 and U18 year groups and also the County Cup for the U19s. The U18s lost to Wellington College in the first round of the Cup but were victorious in the Shield against Truro. Our first match in the County Cup also went well, with a 6-3 win over St John Colfox School. A tough draw in the next round of the Shield saw us lose to Winchester. Likewise, we ended up losing to Twynham in the next round of the County Cup.
The Junior Colts (U15s) performed extremely well and progressed to the third round of the Cup, finally losing to Hampton. In the Shield, they made it through to the quarter-finals where they lost away to Dunottar.
The annual inter-house Futsal competition ran once again. All eight houses bought into the spirit of the competition brilliantly this year. This year, the Junior Cup was retained by Lyon and the Senior Cup was also won by Lyon. Obviously Mr Murray’s footballing persuasion is already having an effect!
It seems that I end up talking about the weather at this point in my review every year. However, despite the huge quantities of rain, the first block fixtures of Lent term went ahead including a raft of fixtures against QEH Bristol. This year, due to the ever-increasing number of boys opting for football and the staff available to run it, we offered football in two streams – either as a competitive option with regular fixtures or as a recreational option, with more sporadic games.
There was a slight change to the South West Independent Schools League this year with each team being entered into a separate division. This meant that the 1st XI played in the first division, the 2nd XI in the second division etc. The Junior Colts and Mini Colts had their own division for A and B teams. The first of these games was against Haberdasher’s Monmouth, followed by Bryanston,
and Bristol GS. While the 1st XI have been pipped to the post in the last minute on a number of occasions this term, the Colts and Junior Colts have been flying! Most recently, and not in the league, the Junior Colts managed to beat St Edward’s Oxford 6-1.
Jon-Paul Manning
SHERBORNE PILGRIMS CLUB INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
BALANCE SHEET AT MARCH 31 2024
** £69,950 (£70,000 less £50 commission) was invested in a Vanguard FTSE tracker fund on June 10 2022. As at March 31 2024 this investment showed an unrealised gain of £18,650. I have examined the books and papers of the Sherborne Pilgrims Club represented to me and report that the income and expenditure account for the year ended March 31 2024 and the Balance Sheet at that date are in accordance with this information. Alex Willis April 7 2024.
THE SHERBORNE PILGRIMS COMMITTEE 2024
PRESIDENT
A Kardooni
VICE-PRESIDENT
R I Tice
Retiring 2024
G C S Brooking
R Hands
A D Nurton
HON SECRETARY
J J Powe
07805 959038 (M)
TRUSTEES
A D Leakey, E P J F Lyons and R A Rydon
COMMITTEE
Retiring 2025
T H G Carr
D A R Guy
N M Lamb
A A Pusinelli
S M Rees-Williams
W M Smibert
Retiring 2026
H S Fisher
J C Harden
C A L Leach
J A J Moubray
J M Sewry
J P Snudden
F E Taylor
J Vitali
HON TREASURER
J D V Wheatley
EDITOR
R Hands
07500 071612 jonathanpowe56@gmail.com
robhands92@gmail.com
1923-27 Nowell C Smith
1927-32 W H Game
1932-52 C F Stanger-Leathes
1952-55 A H Trelawny-Ross
1955-58 J A Tallent
1958-61 D C D Ryder
1961-64 M E K Westlake
1964-67 R Eglington
1967-70 T R Parry
1970-73 J D Watney
1973-76 D F R Evans
1976-79 A A E Morgan
1979-80 R H Whiteway
1981-84 D I T Wilson
1923-27 G M Carey
1923-28 Nowell C Smith
FOUNDER
G M Carey
PRESIDENTS
1984-88 M R G Earls-Davis
1988-91 C R J Eglington
1991-94 J A Watney
1994-97 P R D Gould
1997-2000 J P Hargrove
2000-03 G P Gent
2003-06 D C Watney
2006-09 P J Lough
2009-12 H C K Archer
2012-17 A D Leakey
2017-20 E P J F Lyons
2020-24 R A Rydon
2024- A Kardooni
TRUSTEES
1959-86 M S Glennie
1967-2018 C R J Eglington
1928-48 A H Trelawny-Ross 1986-2010 J A Watney
1928-42 P E H Parry-Jones
1946-59 B Pickering Pick
1948-59 A H Moberly
1959-67 C R Hopwood
1959-99 J A Tallent
1999-2024 J P Hargrove
2010- A D Leakey
2018- E P J F Lyons
2024- R A Rydon
HON SECRETARIES (and until 1966 also Hon Treasurer)
1923-35 N H E Partridge
1935-50 D C D Ryder
1950-54 J S W Lush
1954-72 M R G Earls-Davis
1972-88 C R J Eglington
1966-86 J C Alan Smith
1986-2014 R H Green
1988-2000 G P Gent
2000-07 C R J Eglington
2007-17 E P J F Lyons
2017- J J Powe
HON TREASURERS
2014- J D V Wheatley
Vice-Presidents who did not serve as President: G M Carey (1923-27), N H E Partridge (1935-48), W E Tucker (1955-64), R F W Leonard (1964-70), M S Glennie (1970-73), J C Foot (1981-87), E D Fursdon (2009-15).
RULES
1.The Club shall be called “The Sherborne Pilgrims”.
2.All OS who are members of the OS Society shall be entitled to apply for membership. Members of staff who are members of the OS Society may be invited to become an honorary member.
3.With the exception of honorary members, who shall pay no subscription, all new members shall pay a life subscription, which shall be determined by the Committee.
4.The Objectives of the Club are to promote and encourage all forms of OS sport, and to keep members in touch with one another and with the School. While the Club maintains public liability insurance cover it remains the responsibility of any person playing for the Club in any sport to have in place adequate personal liability insurance.
5.The Officers of the Club shall be the President, who shall hold the office for three years, two Vice-Presidents, the immediate Past President, three Trustees, the Honorary Treasurer and an Honorary Secretary, if appointed.
6.The Committee shall be the Officers of the Club; two representatives from the School staff, up to 18 ordinary members, and such others as may be coopted. A co-opted member shall be subject to annual reappointment.
7.Ordinary members of the Committee shall retire after three years’ service, but are eligible for re-election.
8.The Club bank shall be the Sherborne branch of the NatWest Bank.
9.All investments shall be held in the name of a regulated nominee company, or in the name of the Trustees
10. The financial year end shall be March 31. An income and expenditure account, together with a balance sheet, shall be produced for approval at the AGM.
11.A Committee meeting shall be properly convened on two weeks’ notice and be quorate with five or more members present
12. In exceptional circumstances the Committee shall have the right to refuse an application for membership.
