TRIBUTE TO PETER GARDINER BY THE DEAN OF YORK, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS In the summer of 1975, when it became known that I was to leave Westminster for York, one of the first letters of welcome I received was from Peter Gardiner on behalf of St. Peter's School. It was a friendly and charming letter which not only gave me great pleasure: I was also impressed by the obvious love and enthusiasm the writer had for the school. Since then we have had nearly four years of pretty close contact, and I can only say that these four years have in no way changed my first favourable impressions. Here was a man whose dedication to the School and its well-being was complete. Here was a scholar — in love with his subject and with teaching. Here was a pastor — with a genuine concern for those under his care. Here was a man of culture — interested not only in the arts but also in all manner of things of good report. But above all here was a true Christian gentleman — and that is the highest compliment I can pay. The Governing Body of St. Peter's is an interesting mixture of people, nominated by different groups and covering diverse interests — the church, education, local government, law, business. It would be strange if there were not differences of opinion from time to time — indeed it would be very disquieting if there were never disagreements. Sometimes governors disagree with governors, sometimes governors disagree with the Headmaster. But I can truthfully say that during my four years as chairman, despite disagreements, our meetings have never been stormy and tempers have not frayed: and this has in large measure been due to Peter's own careful preparation of material, his own good temper and his courtesy. And at the end he was there ready to entertain us, encouraging us to relax, and to forget all our problems over a drink and a meal. So Peter leaves us for Stanborough — a job very different from St. Peter's, but one where I feel sure he will have an opportunity to use his obvious gifts and talents to the full. We wish him, his wife and his family every happiness, and we thank him for twelve years unstinted service here with us. He has done a great deal for the school as an institution: but there must be many individuals who feel all the better for having known him. That says a very great deal.
11
