The Old Radleian 2022

Painting title: Kōhaku

Painting date: 2020

Painting medium & dimensions: Poured Acrylic Paint and Freehand Paint Work, 120 x 120cm

Artist name: Toby King-Thompson (2009, B) https://www.tobyktart.com/

This painting was completed by Toby for an international art fair in Luxembourg hosted by the Van Gogh gallery in Madrid. Kōhaku is a type of Koi Carp fish originated from Japan which typically has a red and white pattern. Toby believes art is a powerful tool for conveying a particular mood; in this case he wanted to show to the viewer a calming and tranquil mood without having a static focal point, therefore, painting the fish moving in unison and symmetry in an almost never-ending circle, making your eyes continuously move following the fish in a circle. In the background, Toby aimed to achieve a sense of depth and ripples in the water again trying to achieve a sense of movement. This painting was shown in the Old Radleian art exhibition The Conviction that Art is Necessary, in September 2022, part of the 175th Anniversary celebrations.

radleian 2022

Letter from John Moule, the Warden

A crowd of around 2,500 visitors gathered near Mansion on the first day of Festival 175 to watch Mary Berry judge cakes made by Radley staff and students.

As I write this, the nation is in mourning as we remember the extraordinary life and service of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Such moments are of profound importance; they cause us to examine our roots, traditions, values, and beliefs. At Radley, we emerge, as I trust we do as a nation, confident that we build on firm foundations. As we stood in Chapel as one, I was struck by three things: the universal respect and acknowledgement from boys that this was a solemn and significant moment in history; that such acknowledgement held true for those for whom she was not their queen; and that Chapel was the perfect place for us all to be collectively, in that moment. I am very proud of the Chapel extension as an architectural project but the purpose of it was not merely aesthetic; it was to make sure that we could retain the tradition of all boys being together: singing, reflecting, identifying as one. Never more true – or important – than this week.

It seems apt, somehow, that as the nation does the same, we should reflect on our history. That has been a feature of our 175th anniversary year and it is celebrated in this edition of the Old Radleian. It is nice to think that we had two visits from the Queen: in 1947 when she was still a princess and 1997 when she and the Duke of Edinburgh visited to open Queen’s Court, a visit which many ORs will remember. In our archive, there is a wonderful letter from the then princess dating from the first visit as she wrote warmly about the occasion to a former member of staff who lived in Windsor Great Park and had returned to Radley for the day. As for so many, the Queen is part of our College history.

History has been at the heart of our anniversary year. We have a new book, Untold Stories, that draws on less wellknown elements of our archives to bring light and life to our past. In June, we reflected on the momentous days of 1847, recorded in Singleton’s diaries, as first the idea and then the reality of Radley College came to be. And, of course, back in November 2021, we had the sad – but also wonderfully uplifting – service to pay tribute to the contribution Richard Morgan made to Radley as Don, Tutor, and Warden.

The year was not, however, designed as simply a nostalgia-fest. As all good birthdays do, it involved a lot of celebratory fun, kicked off by a wonderful evening of music, the 175 Concert at Cadogan Hall. Our Festival 175 in the last week of the Summer Term was the culmination of the celebrations. The highlight was probably, judging by the numbers present, the visit of Dame Mary Berry … though mention must be made of the compering role played by the Sub-Warden as he guided her through the cakes on display. The festival stage welcomed the BBC concert band, a magician, a debate on Covid lockdown, Sir Anthony Seldon, and much else besides. Two particular highlights stand out for me as I look back. First, the bands night, not because I enjoyed the music – though the quality was excellent – but because it was a fine example of boys from different years coming together and supporting each other in exactly the way we would wish. The second also involved music, but was again more about what the event represented as we welcomed hundreds of primary school pupils to a day with Kabantu, a leading folk music band. It was a huge logistical feat to get them here but the smiles on their faces and their enthusiastic reception and interaction made it more than worthwhile.

This leads me to the third aim of the year: honouring the past, celebrating the present … and looking to the future. I never tire of saying that we are right to love, and hold on to, our traditions but at the same time, we want to be doing things differently, evolving what a Radley education looks like in the 21st century. We were keen to reflect on what the next 175 years might bring.

Three themes emerged: sustainability, partnerships, and entrepreneurism. We were delighted to launch our sustainability strategy in June, and it is good to have lots of new initiatives coming from the committee tasked to lead us, on which boys have a significant voice. Tree planting in honour of the anniversary will give a lasting memory of the year, and our plans to introduce a solar farm look all the more important given the current energy crisis. It is great to see the Countryside Centre at the

heart of our plans, something I have long thought we could make more of.

We have made the Countryside Centre a core element of our partnerships strategy, welcoming partner schools and groups into Radley, as we seek to ensure that the College is properly and purposefully connected to the world beyond our gates. I am thrilled at the progress in this aspect of our strategy.

Finally, we are conscious that an entrepreneurial mindset is perhaps more important than ever. It has been interesting to see how just how many Old Radleians seem to be taking a different route to career planning in the post-Covid period and are succeeding in starting and growing their own enterprises. Here at the College, we are fortunate enough to have a lead donation to help kickstart a new approach encouraging an innovative and entrepreneurial mindset in our boys: watch this space.

We are always building on good foundations, of course. As we look back on a remarkable period of over seventy years of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s rule we are, I think, proud of it. Of the heritage, stability, and continuity, but also of the way in which the ancient institution of monarchy has adapted and changed. And of the humanity, dedication and service involved. As we also look back on 175 years of Radley College, I hope – I think – the same themes apply.

John Moule Warden of Radley College

Dear ORs,

Gazette

a year like no other...

It’s hard to believe that only a year ago we were just restarting the Radleian Society events programme after a hiatus of two years, whilst also beginning Radley’s 175th Anniversary year. RadSoc was, of course, central to the 175 celebrations, acting as an engine to bring together the Radley Community (in its widest sense) in a variety of ways. Working very closely with the school, we launched a year-long, jam-packed events and activities programme designed to connect Old Radleians, Radley parents, and Dons in commemorating Radley’s past, celebrating its present, and sharing in its hopes and aspirations for the ‘Radley of the future’.

One of the backbones of our celebration, and over two years in the making, was our Anniversary book Untold Stories, written by our Archivist, Clare Sargent. Clare started writing in lockdown, gathering together a suite of untold stories from Old Radleians, providing a different lens through which to view the history of the College. Feedback has been excellent, and we were delighted to sell over 800 copies, meaning it has been classified as a best seller by the publisher!

In our 175th year, the RadSoc team delivered more events than ever before. Not only did we deliver our usual programme, but we were also proud to host several flagship 175 events for the College, including the Chapel Dedication Service, a wonderful 175 Celebration Concert at Cadogan Hall, and a series of TED style ‘Big Thinking Talks’ held on Zoom, delivered by various members of the community, and discussing the future of our society and the world at large. In September 2022 we also launched our new format reunion day, known as ‘Old Radleian Day,’ which brought together the 50-year reunion cohort and those aged over 75 in the morning, and the decade year groups in the evening (10, 20, 30 & 40). We had a fabulous turn out with over 200 Old Radleians coming and going throughout the day; singing in Chapel, watching rugby, seeing their old Socials, dining in Hall, and of course popping into the JCR for a pint!

Old Radleian Day will be a yearly addition to our event calendar so if you are due a decade reunion, or are aged 75 and over, and want to revisit, then please ‘Save the Date’ for next year – Saturday 16th September 2023.

Finally, what I can say with great pride in this 175th year is that we have been able to add more and more value to the school today through the weight of the Radley Community. We are absolutely a Society for Old Radleians, but we are also a Society for current Radleians, and through the experience that sits within the network we are better informing their decision making as they transition from school and into their early careers. As Radley smoothly moves into its 176th year, and the world becomes more and more complex, helping the boys in their lives and their careers (both Radleians and Old Radleians) remains our top priority and we urge you to keep connected, and support us in this mission.

Sam Melluish (1976,

editor’s note

B)

Radleian Society Chairman

When I interviewed for the role of Engagement Officer at Radley College, I had little idea what the place might be like. An all-boys, all-boarding school with a golf course and a mansion: it sounded austere, extravagant and, dare I say, a bit of an anachronism. What I’ve found is a place filled with kindness and ambition. Radley strives for excellence across all fields, and the results of this are clear to see in areas as various as sport, drama, music, and academics. As I speak to members of the OR community, it is clear to see that this breadth of ambition carries through into your lives after you leave school: sculptors, financiers, lawyers, filmmakers, authors, engineers. Speaking to you, and hearing your stories, and researching Radley’s history has been more fascinating than I could have imagined. I am inspired by your innovation and passion. Most of all, I’m grateful for the wonderfully warm welcome I’ve received both within the school, and from the wider community.

An anniversary is a milestone marker. It invites us to stop, look back down the path we’ve travelled, remember the beautiful scenery we’ve passed. If we are wise, we will also recall the blisters and ruts in the road. Then, we must plan for the next stretch: where we are travelling to, why, and how far do we have to go?

In this edition of the Old Radleian, we look back on 175 years of Radley, and forward into the future of the College, our society, and our world.

Sophie Torrance Engagement Officer

Building Connections

The challenges that boys are facing on entering the world of work are greater than ever before, not just because of the pandemic, but also because of the way the workplace has, and continues to rapidly transform. With greater competition for jobs from all over the world, hybrid work models, remote team working, multiple job/career changes, continuous digital transformation and more; decisions about the future can seem overwhelming. What is clear in the context of all of this, is that the ability to build and maintain good relationships remains incredibly important in helping individuals to navigate this landscape.

The Radleian Society has a significant part to play in helping Radleians understand the value of building a network, and in providing an ‘live’ insight into the wide variety of careers out there. Our relevance has always been directly linked to the power of the Radley Community, and we are now in a stronger position than ever before to harness and access this incredible resource, actively building an ecosystem of support for Radleians and Old Radleians.

Our events, communications, and our digital networking platforms are all focused on building strong connections across the community in several ways. We are also now closely linked to Radley’s careers & UCAS department, which means we can use the network more effectively to help current boys understand the world of work, and to support them as they transition into their early careers. Radley Connect continues to be an important hub of activity where we encourage Old Radleians to post updates, and it has proved its worth, helping to share jobs, aid charitable work, promote new business ideas and connect those who are looking for advice to those who need it.

We want to imbue all Radleians with an understanding of the career opportunities out there before they leave Radley, and we are now working with the school to develop a Business & Entrepreneurship programme which will help to inspire them and provide practical advice to those aged between 13 and 25. We look forward to sharing this with you soon, and hope that some of you will help to support us in delivering it.

Caroline Monaghan  Associate Director  Radleian Society

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

Bringing the Radley community together through events, and keeping you updated via social media, email and publications.

BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Raising awareness of business activity and entrepreneurship within the Radley network, and focusing on sharing stories to inspire and inform.

CAREERS & NETWORKING

Using our digital platforms and networking events to build connections within the Radley community, creating an ecosystem of careers support for current boys and Old Radleians.

We hope you can see that the Radleian Society has evolved a great deal in the last ten years and we wanted to reflect these changes in how we present ourself in our communications. We have decided to both simplify and modernize; first we will be retiring our business networking logo ‘Radley For Life’ this year (it is no longer necessary as business networking is now at the heart of what the Radleian Society does), and second, we have created a shorthand version of the Radleian Society logo which will work more effectively on digital communications. We feel it reflects the dynamism of our work which we know will have a positive impact on the careers of many boys in future years.

development director’s introduction

One of my highlights from this past year was the Chapel Dedication Service in March. This event represented so much of the strength of the Radley community: a long term vision which began when Dennis Silk was Warden; the aspiration to be bold with the building project yet still keeping true to our core ethos; the determination to overcome the challenges of building throughout significant disruption and finally the extraordinary generosity from so many within the Radley community who supported the Chapel Campaign.

Six months later, the entire school gathered for Evensong, only half an hour after the announcement of the Queen’s death. The poignancy and reverence in Chapel were palpable and deeply moving. Chapel was the sanctuary for us all during this historic moment, as it has been during key events for so many generations before.

As we close our 175th anniversary, a year of reflection and celebration, we now turn our focus towards the future. While Radley is still firmly committed to a traditional education, we are incorporating both innovation and enterprise to deliver a balanced and modern educational experience. The Radleian Society is instrumental to the future of Radley. Drawing from the expertise of ORs and parents, and the philanthropic support of donors, exciting initiatives have been introduced and integrated as part of a contemporary education. The Business and Entrepreneurship Programme aims to create an enterprise mindset; Partnerships have built meaningful collaborations where value, experience and purpose provide a double benefit; the introduction of Robotics expands the ambition in STEM, and

the Batten Law programme to include the topics most pressing in the future of law: ethics in relation to AI, biosciences, and the automation of legal services.

The vitality of Radley today is comprised of people: boys, Old Radleians, parents, staff and friends. We have been delighted to welcome so many new and familiar faces at our events this year, and our increased events programme will continue next year and beyond. As well as the social events and reunions, we will continue to expand our professional and business networking, plus the online Big Thinking Talks which have already covered topics like the Future of Companies, the Future of Cities, the Future of Education and Rethinking the Future

The Radley Connect online hub continues to grow. We are thrilled that so many of you are using this important resource for networking, but also reconnecting with old friends. It has proven to be a valuable tool for many, and particularly the boys in 6.1 who are seeking work experience and career advice. We have been reviewing our overall communications so that we can be more efficient with email, but do look out for and follow our increased activity on social media, so as not to miss out. Please let us know what you think, as you see the improvements in the coming months.

Each year, the work of the Development Office increases, and we are busier than ever! We do not accomplish all of this on our own but rely on many volunteers on committees and as speakers. I would like to thank the Radleian Society Committee members, the Radley Foundation Trustees, and the Radleian Society (Hong Kong) for their tremendous support for all of our endeavours. As we expand our reach, we welcome new ideas and feedback to ensure that everyone in the Radley community feels connected.

Elisabeth Anderson  Development Director

Seamus Blackley, physics expert and creator of the Xbox gaming console, recently visited Radley while researching OR Charles Howard (1921, D), George Cross recipient and inventor of bomb disposal, about whom he is writing a book. During his visit, Seamus spoke to current boys about their robotics projects as well as his career and research.

transforming the future in a moment

We talk a lot about time at Radley, and for very good reason. Time – some 175 years of it – has made the school what it is today. In a previous Impact Report, the Bursar talked about patterns of time throughout our history. He talked about William Sewell’s original vision back in 1847, guiding the school as we move forward to the next 175 years and beyond.

Time is personal and, more often than not, the brief years a Radleian spends at the school have a profound effect on the rest of his life. The moments in a busy Radley day, the act of setting aside time to reflect in Chapel, to enjoy a sport or activity, to catch up with friends in Social, are what makes Radley so special to many. Of course, personal history and institutional history are often inextricably linked. It is the experiences of individual Radleians that have shaped the school at large and the lives of future generations of Radleians.

The War Memorial Fund comes to mind. Born out of personal losses following the World Wars, the War Memorial Bursary provided fee support for the sons of servicemen killed or wounded in the line of duty. It still provides means-tested support today for Radleians whose parents are in the Armed Forces. In September 2022, there are two recipients at Radley –all thanks to the personal sacrifices and charity of those who came before them.

In a similar spirit, the Armed Forces Fund was founded in 2011 following the loss of Old Radleians Lieutenant Colonel Rupert Thorneloe (1983, E) and Lieutenant Dougie Dalzell MC (1996, A) in the Afghanistan conflict. This award supports the education of children whose parents have been killed or injured in active service. Seven children have been supported (at Radley, Downe House and St Mary’s Calne), and it is an immensely positive initiative founded out of tragic circumstances.

These deeply personal links to the wider future of school are often represented in the act of remembering Radley in one’s will. This represents a deep connection, both to the school you enjoyed when you were here, and the commitment to the College’s future. Many Radley scholarships of today only exist thanks to this kind of generosity. One such long-standing

scholarship is the Thompson All Rounder Award, founded thanks to James VP Thompson, Tutor of C from 1950 to 1964, who left a bequest of upon his death in 1981. This award appreciates boys who excel in a variety of areas and who bring a breadth of talents to their education. There are nine worthy recipients at Radley today.

It is not only scholarships and academics that have been remembered by Radleians. Brigadier Walter Radford MBE MC (1917, C) was a considerable athlete who won the United Services Steeplechase in 1930 and 1931. Later, he was a prisoner of war from 1940 to 1945. Throughout that time the Radleian Society sent letters, books, cigarettes, and other gifts, while making sure his family was cared for –all orchestrated by Honorary Secretary Vyvyan Hope, as he did for other OR POWs. Brigadier Radford never forgot how important that constant contact was in helping him get through five years of imprisonment. His gratitude took the form of a bequest of £250,000 in 1987, which enabled the opening of the much-needed Radford Athletics Track in 1995.

In more recent times, we have seen individuals make transformational bequests to benefit others. John Waddilove (1947, H), upon his death in November 2021, bequeathed over £80,000 for the benefit of the library and cricket facilities at Radley. John lived in Australia – a very great distance from Radley – but never lost his passion for the school. His gift to Radley was the largest bequest in his will.

Gerard Richmond (1951, H), who passed away in January 2022, has left a significant donation to grow the Richard Morgan Award, a means-tested funded place in honour of the former Warden. And when David Bastyan (1959, D) died in 2009, his immensely generous bequest of the majority of his estate enabled the founding of the Bastyan Organ Scholarship, which was done so in honour of David’s deep love for music during his lifetime.

So, what does this all mean? It means that Radleians care deeply. They care about the school they enjoyed as a boy, they care about how the school is adapting during their lifetime, and they care about the direction in which the school is going.

There are 96 members of the community who have told us they plan to remember Radley in their will. This group of generous individuals represents those who have experienced Radley in different ways – whether as a boy, Don, parent or via a totally different path – and all have a firm belief in Radley’s future. We are immensely grateful to them for making such a commitment. If you have already remembered Radley in your will, or would like to find out more about doing so, please do get in touch: foundation@radley.org.uk

Time is a funny thing. It can take just a few years, a few days, a few moments to shape a lifetime. These moments stick with us. For some, these moments can be an inspiration, making a transformational difference to those who come after us.

We look back to the past and we look ahead to the future. The two go hand in hand.

Henry Cosh Associate Director

The Radley Foundation

fundraising policy update

Over the summer, The Radley Foundation took the opportunity to update its existing Fundraising Policy. We’re excited to share our new Donor Charter, Fundraising Code of Practice and Gift Acceptance Policy. The policy takes a ‘donor-centric’ approach to all of the Foundation’s fundraising activities and continues its commitment to implementing best practice in all fundraising activities. You can view our new policy under the ‘IT and Data’ drop down: https://www.radley.org.uk/aboutradley/policies-inspection-reports

radleian society committee meeting and agm

The Radleian Society Committee met, and the AGM was held, on 23rd April 2022. Due to COVID, this was the first AGM to take place at Radley in four years.

Due to the long hiatus, there was plenty to catch up on. The Chairman, Sam Melluish (1976, B), welcomed new staff to the Development Office, and gave a warm farewell to the departing Chairman, Rupert Henson (1975, A).

Rupert stepped down after 12 years of service as Chairman during a virtual meeting of the Committee in 2020. He had spent more than 20 years on the Committee, and has been a longtime champion of sports at the College, most particularly the Rangers. This was the first opportunity to thank him for his huge contribution to the Radleian Society and the College.

OR Livery Dinner

The OR Livery Dinner was held in the historic Drapers' Hall on Wednesday 1st December 2021. 24 Old Radleians attended for a lovely evening, with an excellent dinner.

Rupert Henson speaking at the AGM Lunch, April 2022

chapel dedication service

On Sunday 6th March, Chapel was rededicated following the completion of the extension which created a larger sanctuary, and increased the number of seats to 805. New stained glass by designer Rachel Thomas casts jewel-like light over the altar. The extension finally realises the Founders’ original 1840s plan for a stunning east apse, and ensures that Chapel can continue to be a space in which the whole school can gather together.

Over 500 guests from the Radley community joined for this joyful occasion. Many took a moment to find their names on the magnificent donor board outside Chapel. The Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford, presided over the rededication, and music was performed on the newly installed organ.

The Bishop of Oxford in front of the new east extension to Chapel

mariners’ olympic drinks

It was a truly Olympian room at London Rowing Club on June 9th as we were joined by many distinguished people from the Radley rowing world including our Olympic medal winners, other rowers of great achievement, and those who had supported the boys through their time at Radley and beyond (Radley coaches, our Boatman, and of course Radley parents). It was a balmy evening, and there was a true air of celebration as people relished being able to finally get together after the first set of cancelled drinks in December 2021. Ben Dreyer (1981, G), Chairman of the Mariners, welcomed everyone and raised a toast to Radley College as June 9th 2022 was also the official 175th birthday of the College. He then invited our three Olympic medallists, Ollie Wynne-Griffith (2007, D/J), Charlie Elwes (2010, J) and Tom George (2008, G), to talk about their experiences in Tokyo in 2021. They each regaled us with stories from the Olympic village and talked about the highs and lows they had faced throughout their careers. An Olympic medal was passed around the room with many remarking how heavy it was! All in all, the evening was a lovely celebration for everyone who had contributed to Radley rowing over the years.

10-year reunion

On Thursday 16th June, 64 Old Radleians reunited at their 10 years since leaving Radley reunion event, held in London at the impressive Royal Horseguards Hotel. It was a warm evening, but generous options at the bar kept the crowd hydrated. ORs spent a number of lively hours catching up with each other and speaking to current and former dons; a glance around the room revealed dozens of laughing and smiling faces.

Socials gathered for group photos, and there was still some interSocial rivalry on show, both from ORs and dons, who counted up the attendees for each Social with competitive interest. The event was a triumph, and all who gathered enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with their Radleian friends. At the time appointed for the event to end, a large proportion of ORs looked set to stay on for further revelry.

old radleian day

On Saturday 17th September 2022, and in the 175th year of the College, we returned to the historic reunion event format: Old Radleian Day. Held at the College, this is a chance for ORs celebrating decade reunion years (20, 30, 40, and 50 years since leaving) to return to Radley, reunite with old friends, and reminisce over delicious food and drink. We also invited back all ORs over 75 who wanted to visit. In all, around 200 guests came to Radley for the first Old Radleian Day in nearly 30 years.

Guests were invited to join tours of their old Socials, led by current boys, and collected for drinks receptions in Mansion where a display of fascinating items from the Radley archives were on display. The Radley Beagles made an appearance in the morning, before a wonderful lunch in the newly refurbished Shop, and speeches from the Warden and Second Prefect. ORs gathered together in Chapel for a special service in which thanks was given for the life and service of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. In the evening, younger reunion groups had dinner in Hall after collecting their plates from the servery, just like the good old days. Wine and beer were flowing throughout, and most guests found their way down to the JCR to finish off the night.

What a wonderful day that was, we were made so beautifully welcome. The refreshments and lunch were superb.

Bob Ely (1944, F)

We felt very honoured to inaugurate the new dining room and to enjoy a quite delicious lunch. So many thanks to you all for a wonderful day back at Radley with the old school looking in very rude health!

Hugh Sutton (1968, C)

Thank you for a most enjoyable and well organised day. It was heartwarming to see how much Radley has grown and prospered in the last 60 years.

Colin Williams (1959,

D)

A delicious meal in the new dining-room of the refurbished Shop, with its impressive panoramic view of the playing fields. At every visit the transformed development of Chapel is an inspiration. The Chapel service was exactly right: awareness of the sombre period of mourning for the Queen, and at the same time we were welcomed with warmth and sensitivity. The hymns rang out strongly!

Hamish Aird, Hon Member

business and entrepreneurship

The Radleian Society business and careers network continues to grow in strength, and a number of popular events have been held over the past year. This year we have focused our networking event programme on the theme of entrepreneurship. There have been three events, one virtual and two in-person, with a variety of business start-up panelists.

We were delighted to have 30 current boys from Radley at our final event. There were plenty of opportunities for networking, and for those who were not able to attend, the event was livestreamed with the option to send in questions during the Q&A.

https://bit.ly/RadSocBisVid

Attendees at the online ‘Being Entrepreneurial in your early career’ event, January 2022

Panellists at April’s event (L - R): Hugo Besley (2010, C) Founder in Residence, Entrepreneur First; Rory Codrington (2006, E) Founder & CEO, Trust Keith; Freddy Macnamara (2001, E) Founder & CEO, Cuvva; Nick Christie (1986, D) CEO, Jump 7; and Thom Elliot (1997, F) Co-Founder, Pizza Pilgrims

Panellists at November's event (L - R): Sam Merullo (1996, C) Founder, Scootfleet Group Ltd; Henry Reily-Collins (1997, E) CEO, The Fish Friendly Hydropower Company; Sam Tucker (2014, K) Founder & CEO, Common Surface; and Xander Gilbert (2002, B) Co-founder, Mojo.

Explore the Radleian Society Business & Networking playlist on YouTube to watch these panel discussions.

parents’ summer drinks receptions

Events were held for parents of all year groups at Royal Horseguards Hotel this summer, and over 500 parents attended. As well as an opportunity to meet each other, these receptions provided a chance for parents to hear about the Radleian Society: the social and business networking opportunities, clubs and groups, and the online platform Radley Connect. The atmosphere was warm and lively and, as the volume of laughter attested, guests enjoyed the evening.

leavers’ celebrations

Special Leavers’ Celebrations were held for 6.2s across the College on Gaudy, celebrating the end of their time at Radley. The day was an opportunity to gather in Chapel together for the last time, receive prizes and awards for achievement, and spend some last precious hours in their Socials. We welcome these new members to the Old Radleian community!

Although the day closed with a little rain, spirits were high as boys and parents alike celebrated the start of a new chapter.

Prizes were awarded to a number of 6.2s on their final day, and there were fizz and sweet treats on offer for all.

young or christmas drinks & university suppers

The programme of events for young ORs continued to be popular in 2021-22. Christmas Drinks were held in London at a Salvador Dali inspired tapas bar, Salvador & Amanda, Covent Garden.

University Suppers were held in Edinburgh (February) and Durham (March) for young ORs at university and living in Scotland and the North of England. The sizable gatherings were animated with excitement to be reunited, albeit far from Radley.

COLLEGE UPDATE

Bursar, Andrew Ashton, and Academic Director, Stephen Rathbone, reflect on the year in which Radley celebrates its 175th anniversary. The College, its staff and pupils, continue to show resilience and ingenuity in the face of global challenges.

As we look to the future, it can be helpful to take a historical perspective. Today’s challenges may appear just that –challenges, but they have often been faced before. Covid-19, for example, may have seemed overwhelming at the time for society as a whole (it still is for some) but it was by no means the only global pandemic we have faced – Russian ’flu (1889), Spanish ’flu (1918) and Asian ’flu (1957) being but three examples out of many.

The invasion of Ukraine, a global energy crisis and burgeoning inflation are three dreadful situations that are impacting us all and we may feel powerless to make a difference. But we have been here before on each of these issues and more (war, energy security, food security, industrial action, cost of living crisis, etc.) and navigated our way through each of them. As Plato said, “our need will be the real creator”.

Radley is not unique among organisations that must face the headwinds of local, national, or global events. Each of the ones mentioned affect us all, whether as pupils, former pupils, parents or staff – we are all in it together! In most cases we cannot influence these events, but we can aim to anticipate them, we can build resilience against their worst impacts, and (uniquely as a school) we can use them as a crucible for education – and we can also look to the remarkable contributions made by Old Radleians and parents in many areas that support efforts to help improve society in response to them.

At present the price of utilities, and indeed the security and continuity of supply, are key topics. It is interesting to note that previous generations of leadership at Radley have worried about these issues, including when we relied on gas for lighting and coal for heating. So, what is our response? It is, as it has always been, to raise awareness, to leverage what we have got and to try and improve how we do things.

With utilities, the first goal is always to minimise waste and to use less; so, insulation and energy efficient buildings are key. The next goal is to make the most of modern technology to do things in a more efficient way when technological development and economies allow. The move from coal to oil to gas to heat our buildings, and the use of modern building management systems to improve efficiency, have all been steps on this journey. Recent examples are the use of ground and air sourced heat pumps, and use of solar.

A further trick is to use what you have got. Radley owns land –much of it is farmland, but land that can be used in many ways. At present our plan is to deliver a 2MW solar farm on a field that has been identified with little agricultural value, and which can be landscaped appropriately to protect the aesthetic (always a key consideration for Radleians), and which, importantly, has the potential for appropriate connectivity both to the grid and the College’s power supply. As and when we can deliver this (using also the latest in storage and battery technology), we will have made a great step forward in ensuring security of supply (it will be our own electricity!) and removing our dependency on a resource that comes at a cost we cannot control.

Since the 1930s Radley College has possessed a ‘green belt’, including farmland. Over the years this land has proved a sound financial investment, and ensures that the campus continues to be a place of beauty.

Radley’s Sustainability Strategy includes a route map to decarbonisation, with the goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.

Sustainability Strategy

Our solar initiative is just one of a panoply of projects emerging in response to one of the greatest global crises we face – climate change. The College has launched a Sustainability Strategy with a bold goal to be carbon neutral, ideally through our own efforts and not through the purchase of offsets, by 2030. We are fortunate to have our own land, such that its husbandry can form part of

this strategy, including through planting schemes and carbon sequestration initiatives.

As a school, and as a major landowner and employer in the local area, we have two other core responsibilities. First, to educate. It is our boys who will live through the consequences of society’s actions and who, in some cases, will benefit from a whole new range of job roles emerging through sustainability needs, and who will make a difference in the future. So, the more we can engage them through the curriculum and various initiatives in what we are doing, and through seeking their input too, the better.

Secondly, we have a duty in the local community to play our role responsibly and to influence. That is why, when we have sold land recently, we have been keen to sell to those who will develop responsibly. Pye Homes is currently developing former Radley College land into new houses in the village at a site known as Church Farm, and their approach is delivering homes that are 60% more efficient at reducing carbon emissions than standard new builds. All of their properties are electric vehicle charging point ready so homeowners can use the energy generated by their own solar panels during the day to charge their car overnight and the site will also have a higher-than-average biodiversity net gain and feature natural landscaping to encourage and protect local wildlife.

Returning to the central theme, there are so many challenges thrown at us all, ostensibly outside of our control. However, history shows us that these are nothing new, and that we can shape our own future in navigating through them. In addition, there is plenty in our strategic plan that can give us cause for hope in taking control of our own destiny and in educating Radleians to be informed and well-prepared global citizens.

Andrew Ashton Bursar

The Church Farm housing development in Radley village includes traditional materials, innovative technology, and green spaces that encourage biodiversity.

academic report

2021-22

The academic results were strong in 2022, particularly at A-level, reflecting the determination of boys to prove themselves after recent disruption. Of course, Covid-19 lockdowns had meant 6.2 had never sat GCSE exams, receiving instead Centre Assessed Grades. Their individual and collective industry and group discipline were impressive. Below, I also provide the 2019 results (the last time ‘proper’ exams were sat) by way of comparison. It is true that there is still an element of grade inflation – not to take away anything from boys’ achievements – and we will need to prepare for a tougher regime next year.

Innovative thinking

With those results summarised for you, I now turn to the specific theme of innovation and technology, the special focus of this edition. It is very hard to write sensibly about the future. Indeed, if I have been influenced by anything in my reading in the past few years, it has been the notion of the ‘black swan’ event – the largely unforeseen occurrence which upends most (or even all) previous assumptions and prognostications. The ‘black swan’ thesis is laid out brilliantly in the eponymous book by Naseem Nicholas Taleb. So, while it is now very easy to repeat mantras regarding artificial intelligence, robotics and other disruptive technologies, no one can really know what lies around the corner. Covid-19 and the UkraineRussia War remind us that the concept of steady and largely uninterrupted progress is perhaps a luxury we became too used to in recent decades.

As exams recommenced this year following lockdown, many boys sat the first public exams of their academic careers.

The headlines of A-level success were:

• A* 47% (2019: 21%)

• A*/A 76% (2019: 59.9%)

• A*/A/B 92% (2019: 86.8%)

• over a third of boys (37%) gained a full row of A*

• Many previously average performers did extremely well and that must be testament to their sense of realism and ambition

GCSE headline results were pretty good too:

• 21.23% boys gained between 13 and 9 grade 9s (2019: 17.8%)

• 43.79% of (I)GCSE grades were 9 (2019: 58.32%)

• 68.62% of (I)GCSE grades were 9/8 (2019: 61.1%)

• 85.42% of (I)GCSE grades were 9/8/7 (2019: 81.82%)

Therefore, we have shown that despite the pause forced on us by unforeseen and radical circumstances, we can still prepare boys extremely well for examinations. Readers might have seen doomladen headlines predicting that huge numbers would lose out on their first choice of university. Much of that did not come to pass and certainly not at Radley. The vast majority of Radleians made their first choice and if they did not, their second or ‘insurance’ choice came through, or they found a happy alternative in UCAS Clearing. This year we won 10 places at Oxford (and this must be considered a good year) while Cambridge – where far fewer boys apply but high-quality Radley candidates sought places - sadly yielded no places for us. Beyond the Russell Group, Radleians are going to the London Film Academy, Point Blank Music School and the University of the Arts, London. At least seven are going to university abroad: University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Boston College, Pomona College, University of Virginia, NYU Film School, University of Southern California and University of Amsterdam.

Getting boys to think about the way in which apparently random events can throw everything upside down - or at least send everything in a direction very different from the one most people assumed - has been helped by excellent talks on, for example: the unsettled Taiwan issue (by Professor Christopher Coker of the LSE); the unforeseen negative consequences for political stability of the Internet (Professor Philip Howard of the Oxford Internet Institute); and developments in AI by Professor Sir Nigel Shadbolt of Jesus College, Oxford, who is also Chairman of the Open Data Institute (which he co-founded with Sir Tim Berners-Lee).

In the past decade the school has invested time, money and focus on the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), although we prefer to use the acronym STREAM, which adds R for reading and (w)riting and A for art. STREAM allows for the self-evident point that the role of art and design in scientific and technological advance has been seminal. One has only, for example, to look at the diagrams and drawings of Leonardo da Vinci to see the fusion of disciplines. One also might observe the beauty of line and form - as well as function - in the products of Apple. The aesthetic of a mobile phone may draw or repel customers as effectively as anything else. Indeed, we have repeatedly stressed the importance of interdisciplinary thinking within the school and beyond it.

Sir Nigel Shadbolt speaks to a crowded auditorium as part of Festival 175.

In recent times we have made enormous advances in robotics and other coding activity, taking part in national competitions, with great success, given our relative inexperience. We have also recently introduced Computer Science at GCSE. Readers may ask why we took so long to do this. The answer is: we wanted courses to be of sufficient rigour and value to make the experience worthwhile. Based in the Design department, we also have a so-called MakerSpace, which houses laser printers and other equipment which underlines a commitment to cutting-edge technology. Also in Design is a phenomenally powerful laser cutter. It cost a lot of money, but we are getting excellent value from it! Visitors would probably also perhaps be surprised to see how much is now completed via computer-aided design (CAD). In some cases, tangible items do not need to be produced for parts of the courses, although here there is still a very wholesome emphasis on ‘making stuff’, which results in some impressive projects.

active links with local business and research centres to allow boys to take part in organically developing projects. And central to all of this, as one might hope, are growing relationships with other local schools - state and independent - in the ‘OX14’ partnership, carefully coordinated and fostered by our new Partnerships team. Closely allied with all this, we are seeking to provide seed funding for projects which would sponsor innovative concepts from ideation all the way through to production of prototypes. I have been working closely with the Foundation on these matters. We soon hope to be able to launch a proper entrepreneurship scheme which will ally with good ideas generated within the Design Engineering, Art, Science and other departments. I should also add that Radley has a longstanding record of success with the so-called Arkwright Scholarships – highly prestigious awards made for first-class innovation.

Indeed, Radley has a fine and very long history of ground-breaking research and development, as Clare Sargent, College Archivist, makes clear in her recent history of the school, Untold Stories. Of course, the school has produced some first-class minds in this area. One thinks of, for example: Eric Bruce (1871) who invented the electric balloon-signalling system so important to the Army in the Boer War and WWI; James Tingling (1915) who worked with Frank Whittle on the jet engine; and Charles Howard, 20th Earl of Suffolk (1921), whose work on explosives culminated in crucial research on ‘heavy water’ and contributed to the Manhattan Project in WWII. Today, and in future, as the profile of Radley entrants broadens due to developments in the admissions system, we are assured of a widening pool of ideas and influences. This should help to make Radley even more reflective and creative.

Yet this report ends on an even broader and hopefully inspiring note. Radley continues to champion free speech. Perhaps the biggest single influence in terms of visitors was by Dr. Frank Luntz, the American pollster, political influencer and commentator who raved about us. We are very proud of what Frank said about Radley and its ethos in a speech at the Centre for Policy Studies:

‘Thanks to schools in the UK, and the US as well, we are raising a generation that does not understand or appreciate that we have a duty to disagree. That the more certain you are in the virtue of your beliefs, the more necessary it is to listen to those who challenge them – and to do so with mutual respect. It’s why I wear this tie, the Radley tie. I taught there earlier this month, and I found not a shred of wokeism or populism. Instead, I found serious students, taught by serious teachers, engaged in serious study, that will eventually make them serious adults that can seriously contribute to society. There are some in this society who believe schools like that should not exist. Having studied education on both sides of the Atlantic, I think precisely the opposite. I ask those in attendance here today: what can be done to ensure that every student in every school receives a Radley education.’

All these points made, my dream would be to greatly expand the workspace for the ideation and realisation of clever ideas dreamed up by Radleians. Given that Radley sits within the technologically bubbling Thames Valley area, with close proximity to Oxford, Reading and other areas of innovation, it is high time we made a sustained effort to engage more concretely with the external world of technological innovation, scientific research and commercial application of these ideas. So, we aim to create much closer and

Yet what meant even more to us was how Dr. Luntz was able to ignite so much fertile discussion and give Radleians an opportunity to express themselves in a way we have never seen before. He will return in September. There will be inroads for Radley and Radleians into the US Congress and other eminent places, as a result of this connection. And who knows where all these links and networks may lead?

Stephen Rathbone Academic Director

Art and Design play a crucial role in technological and scientific advances, and the links between academic disciplines are highlighted at Radley by widening the focus of ‘STEM’ to include them.

Boys compete in the Vex Robotics Competition

WELCOME TO RADLEY: THE NEW FACE OF ADMISSIONS

Sophie Langdale became Director of Admissions and Communications at Radley in January 2020. Having run admissions at Magdalen College School, Oxford, and Wycombe Abbey and with a previous journalistic background, she was well placed to take on the role. Combine that with the fact that her father, uncle, brother, and son are all Old Radleians, and it was, in her words, ‘the perfect job’. She tells us about the evolution of admissions in independent schools through the lens of her family and shares some amusing stories from her career.

There weren’t many schools that would have appealed after fourteen years of running admissions departments at Magdalen and Wycombe, but Radley was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. Multiple generations of my family are Old Radleians: my uncle, Tony McGarrigle (1950, C), my father, Colin McGarrigle (1955, C), brother, Giles McGarrigle (1983, D), and son, Paddy Langdale (2013, A) have all walked the halls of Radley over the last 70 years, and I’m proud to have joined them – although they all did so in a slightly shorter heel. And, on the subject of footwear, I had big boots to fill, following the legacy of Harry and Vanessa Hammond who had achieved so much in their years at the admissions helm.

Admissions has evolved considerably over the years – and particularly at Radley. Under Dennis Silk’s wardenship, his secretary Mary Hutchinson looked after admissions single-handed. Today I manage a team of six and we work a six-day week. The stream of open days, visits and events is relentless, and my team do a fantastic job to manage such a busy load. Occasionally, in the middle of a hectic week, I imagine my 13-year-old father boarding the train at York to start his first term at Radley, having never previously visited the school! Applicants today will likely have visited two or three times before applying, then once again for the assessment day and interview and then several post-offer familiarisation visits along with an induction day (the Warden’s Welcome) before joining us.

Of course, as a parent, I have been on the other side of the coin. When Paddy was born, he was swiftly added to the Radley List, and

we were an easy sell – no other schools considered. Now, a family might be looking at five or six options – co-ed and single sex, boarding and day – possibly in different countries. Some will see us as the perfect choice (and rightly so!); others might have their hearts set on another school before realising we are a better fit. We work hard for every boy; all whilst delivering first-class customer service. In Paddy’s day – and certainly my father and brother’s – boys weren’t interviewed and just took the dreaded Common Entrance in their final summer term. Today, all applicants (some six hundred of them for each year) sit the ISEB pre-test three years in advance and have a half hour interview. Not only does this help us to understand their academic potential, it also allows us to gain a glimpse of their character and their ‘fit’ for Radley. This process is a major undertaking, but one that is immensely enjoyable for all those involved.

Like my father, Giles has no memory of visiting Radley before joining as a Shell in 1983: “I can’t recall any formal or real admissions process, other than sitting the Common Entrance in a rather dilapidated art room at prep school. I certainly couldn’t tell you who the Director of Admissions was at the time, such was the impact they made.” Whilst this is a view I sympathise with from

Sophie’s father, Colin McGarrigle (1955, C), top row, second from the left, pictured here with the OR Hockey team, the Galleons, in the 1960s.

my own time at school, I’d like to think that parents and boys today value the work my team and I do to support them through the application process.

My son, Paddy, who was Senior Prefect here, sees things in a similar way. He knows that things have changed and must continue to do so, especially in the way we present ourselves (‘marketing’ is not a word used at Radley!). “Places like Radley have so many traditions that we ORs know and love, but they’re alien to the outside world. Through social media, it is possible to ‘lift the lid’ on much of what we all care so deeply about – the prominence and value of Chapel, the joy of boarding and the deep respect between boys and dons.” I have no doubt that many of you might shudder at the thought of Radley’s growing presence on Instagram or TikTok. However, the vista has changed; we are in a competitive market and should not fear innovation. Staying true to Radley’s traditions whilst effectively communicating our modernity is always a careful balancing act. I think of it quite simply: we will always celebrate and respect tradition here, but we must do so whilst facing forwards.

A good example of this is the development of our admissions processes over the past seven years. The Radley List, that many of you will know and love, remains in good heart. Approximately 60% of our boys come through this route, although we do assess and interview candidates now to ensure we are the right school for them. Our Open Entry system (an evolution of the Warden’s List) is more popular than ever. Last year we received 350 applications for just 60 places. These include international candidates from all over the world who bring so much global perspective to Radley. And increasingly – all the more so in these economic climes – families need a helping hand with our fees. In addition to fully funded places, we offer significant financial support to middle income earners who might need some level of support. This could be anywhere from 10-20% through to those who might need 75% or above. We care deeply about enabling talent and making Radley accessible to families from all walks of life, which includes supporting the sons, grandsons and great grandsons of Old Radleians.

In my conversations with Old Radleians, both as part of the admissions process and at College events, two things always stand out: the vivid memories that Radley instils and the deep, loyal friendships that endure throughout the years. Dad still dines out on the story of his Head of Social, the renowned Peter Cook (1951, C), imitating his deaf Tutor, affectionately known as Tonk and his great friend John Fuller-Sessions (1953, A) agreeing to a U-Turn on a narrow stretch of river to retrieve his pipe. Most heartening of all, Giles’ mates from D Social are still his dearest friends, many of them have been best men at each other’s weddings, or godparents to each other’s children. If there’s ever an indicator of how special Radley is, it’s this.

It isn’t all serious in admissions. We enjoy meeting many Old Radleian families and the unique stories they bring. However, I cannot miss this opportunity to share some of the most entertaining emails I have received:

• Dear Mrs Langdale, there is always an eternal debate as to what to attribute success – nature or nurture. Gideon, our son is fortunate because he has been amply served by both.

• Boris showed significant enthusiasm at this year’s Christmas play, bringing the character of a mouse into far greater prominence than is typical in ‘Babushka’.

• Mrs Langdale, I have consulted the train schedule just now. It appears we could arrive at 10am on the morning of the 25th. In fact, we are flexible to suit your incontinence.

Whilst these might amuse you, I hope they help to illustrate the importance prospective parents place on finding the right school for their son. Helping families to navigate this process is a unique honour, and doing so at Radley is a privilege. When I got this job, my father, brother, and son all said the same thing to me: “Don’t mess it up”. Numbers at the school are the highest in its history and, fingers crossed, no mess ups yet ...

A & H Social Shells laser gaming during their second week at Radley. Paddy, Sophie’s son, is the tall blondhaired boy on the far right.

vales 2021-22

Andrew Cunningham

Sean Connery’s was made of wool, Roger Moore’s linen, Daniel Craig’s silk, but regardless of the material, The Dr wears his Ivory Dinner Jacket with a panache to match any international man of espionage, although his love of a good gossip would render him hopeless as a spy. It is only a pity that he is more often found volunteering at the Remove Play as barman, than patron at Whites ordering a Vesper Martini. And this sums up the Doc. Elegant, sophisticated, graceful – ever the gentlemen. The first to volunteer to help drive a team to Tonbridge or cover an invigilation – he is an old school ‘school master’: putting others before himself is in his DNA.

‘Old Man’ Cunningham, as DCKE liked to refer to him, came to Radley in 2008 which turned out to be a vintage year for Radley recruitment. As a nipper he attended St Paul’s so knows a thing or two about the competition. He then fled to Aberdeen for a staggering five years for his initial degree – too much fun was obviously had there, since Scottish universities normally stretch to a mere 4 – and then off to Exeter for his Doctorate on Thomas Hardy, a fellow romantic writer.

A career in Advertising followed and then a post for the Observer. He soon saw the light and moved into teaching with careers at several leading public schools, as well as Charterhouse and Uppingham. Unlike many of the Common Room he also dared to venture into the dangerous realms of a girl’s school, where he rose to the lofty heights of head of sixth form – oh Dr Cunningham –but it was all too much for his ticker and he retreated to the safe bastion of an all-boys, all boarding public school: Radley.

At some point along the way, probably in the early hours of a summer’s morning over a Cognac and Cuban, he met a certain David Edwards at Uppingham, and a lifelong love of mischief, teaching and entertaining quickly blossomed with a remarkably similarly aligned ethos on school-mastering. On one occasion in the distant past, he was called upon to be a ‘pimp’ with Liz Murtagh in the H Social Cultural evening, which he did with rather more gusto than was necessary for the script or the audience, but AC never does anything by halves!

Ever the all-rounder, Doc has nominally overseen many a gentlemen’s XI or XV. A measure of the man was a few weeks ago when the 4th XI cricket match was cancelled, and Doc put on a 6-a-side game at 2 hours’ notice instead. Many colleagues might have taken the Saturday off, especially as it was near the end of term, but Doc always puts the boys first. Having only a rudimentary knowledge of the Laws of ‘Rugger’ did not curb his enthusiasm and passion for coaching the seniors. The sudden reversal of fortune experienced by 6th formers, recovering from

the disappointment that Messrs Greed, Wood and Lawson have overlooked their talent yet again, is profound. But heartbreak quickly turns to elation as the dejected masses find a warm berth in XVs known as Stonewall, Foamwall or even Brickwall under AC and Knoxy.

It is hard to put into words the Cunningham effect in the classroom, particularly as it tends to mature in the 6th form. I think it is fair to say that the Dr doesn’t relish teaching the lower school, who does? Smelly, squeaky, sniffly – perhaps their palates aren’t developed enough for the juicy morsels on offer in E2. Or, it is just the case that the Doctor hasn’t fully recovered from his de-toxing early morning run to Boars Hill and back, resplendent in Baggy ‘70’s shorts, thick rugger socks, shirt and flowing silver locks all a bounce in the wind. He just needs a white silk scarf and he wouldn’t look out of place as he passes the Spitfire at Lodge Hill –scrambled for the next attack by the Boshe.

On the Social Prayers merry-go-round, he is something of a guru, having delivered more morals than a priest and more words of advice than a nun. I’ve seen most of them from the front seat, and it is as part of the H team that I will miss him immensely. H Social has been his home from home for 14 years. He has left an indelible mark on every boys’ time in the house, as well as many unanswered questions about cocoa bills and cellar depletion at a rate that even John Shuckborough, from Oxford Wine, struggles to keep up with.

There is often a certain feverishness in the air during prep time once the boys know Doc C is on for cocoa and a ‘storming of the bastille-esque’ charge for the cocoa room on the stroke of 9pm. Piles of chocolate and crisps are devoured in seconds and then the freeloaders drift off, leaving the room for the coterie of Cunningham acolytes – ready to metaphorically devour the real goodies of cocoa – convivial conversation and debate led by Andrew on all manner of topics which might on occasion encompass the delights of a good claret or Bordeaux (purely theoretical rather than practical).

Andrew is the kindest, most thoughtful colleague one could wish for. He is unwaveringly polite and gentlemanly in his conduct and his enthusiasm for the boys is infectious. He campaigns hard for the underdog and always spots a diamond in the rough. He has a talent for providing a haven for those chaps who find it harder to fit in, or who do not easily get on with other dons. I have rarely heard him complain, except on behalf of others. In H social he has been the thread that has kept us linked to a (in)glorious past of his dear friends Dr Jim Summerly and David Edwards, and the high jinxes and escapades that ensued.

Though he is retiring, Doc embodies a youthful enthusiasm and charm which is infectious and puts many of us who are a few years, or even decades, younger than him, to shame. To quote Hamlet again, a line we often say to each other as the last few boys depart for their rooms after a wonderful evening of entertainment in the cocoa room:

Good night, sweet prince, And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. We raise our glasses to the Doc, to his retirement, to the lasting legacy he leaves here, and to friendship.

James Schofield

James (Skozza) Schofield arrived at Radley in September 2010, moving from academic life in Oxford to a career in school-mastering. As an undergraduate, he didn’t just get a first. He got the top first in his year across the whole of Oxford University out of anyone taking finals in Mathematics. He followed this with a few years of academic research, holding the position of junior lecturer. So, by the time he arrived at Radley he was entitled to use the title of Dr Schofield. He had submitted his thesis, earnt his doctorate and was readily teaching undergraduates how to pass finals – quite a step from teaching Shells how to pass the Warden’s Algebra Test! One of James’s greatest gifts was an ability to slip seamlessly between the two. He could pitch the right level for the struggling Remove just as easily as help a third-year undergraduate who was aiming for a first.

Another of James’s strengths was throwing himself into the extracurricular life of the college. His own main sport was bicycling, but this didn’t prevent him from approaching rugby, soccer and athletics as an enthusiastic amateur. He took a team, or helped with athletics, in every one of his 36 terms at Radley.

Bicycling took him all over Europe during his holidays. He was one of those annoying people you drive behind in your car as you cross the Alps who bicycles a bit too quickly for you to overtake, but too slowly for you to make progress at your desired rate. As a soccer player what he lacked in talent he made up for in enthusiasm, both in coaching and on the pitch in staff football. And as a spectator he was very proud to be a season ticket holder at Bournemouth. He tried never to miss a home match.

Pastorally, James contributed fully to the College, both as a Sixth Form Form Master and also, in his earlier years, for a short time as livingin Sub-Tutor in G Social. Any boy lucky enough to be in James’s form was guaranteed excellent UCAS advice. In December James would be in one of a number of Oxford Colleges, reading personal statements, and conducting interviews. So, he knew what made a good candidate. Indeed, during almost all of his time at Radley, he kept his hand in, teaching University undergraduates one afternoon per week.

As JWS’s Head of Department I knew that James would do anything that was asked of him, and always do it well. The same applied to his whole College approach. In recent years this became a bit of a frustration. As more and more was demanded, and as someone who refused to cut corners, he found it harder to deliver work of the quality that he required of himself. James never missed a deadline. He marked all the Warden’s Algebra Tests for all the Shells, each term, and the results were always out by the next day, usually at about 5am in the morning. He just worked through the night. I asked individuals for words to describe James. ‘Clever’, ‘hard working’, ‘conscientious’, ‘decent’, ‘nice person’, ‘kind’, ‘excellent colleague’ are some of them. After twelve years working with James, I can endorse them all. He leaves with our very best wishes as he moves to Winchester College in September. I consider myself very fortunate to have been James’s Head of Department for those twelve years.

David Wilson

David arrived at Radley from St Andrew’s Episcopal Church, St Andrews, where he was the incumbent. During his time at St Andrews, David had completed a doctorate on theology and art in the Oxford Movement, and he was thus perfectly attuned to the beautiful environment he was coming to. As a priest, David had an instinctive sense of how a service ought to operate, and he imbued complex occasions with an aura of calm, which was often remarked upon by visiting diocesan clergy. He poured himself into the creation of services for large scale set-piece occasions, such as the service for the dedication of the new Chancel in Chapel (for which there was no template). Invariably these occasions attained the perfect balance of liturgy, symbolism, hymnody and creative congregational input. He instituted traditional, yet innovative services, such as the outdoor service of Rogation with its red tractors, which gave a wellreceived variety to the worshipping life of the Radley community. He formed a warm partnership with the Precentor and Succentor, and is recognised by the wider Radley community as a ‘safe pair of hands’ to preside over life events in Chapel.

David has always been popular among his team of sacristans, which has continued to grow in later years. Whether it was the introduction of a sacristans’ tie, or regular BBQs, David knew how to engage boys in the life of Chapel. The respect that head sacristans held for David arose partly because he had taught them and prepared them so well for GCSE Religious Studies. As a rule of thumb, he finished the syllabus early and excellent results were obtained. With his tall military bearing David had a friendly yet paternal mien, and boys were keen not to disappoint him. Following in his father’s footsteps (an army officer with the Parachute Regiment), David also served as a reserve army chaplain. He was regarded by the RaChD as a model army chaplain, and he leveraged his contacts to obtain a range of speakers for Radley’s Remembrance Sunday services. He also arranged some memorable visiting preachers outside of the military sphere – a fascinating lunch with a Coptic Archbishop, who arrived in a borrowed Tesla to tell us about the persecuted church, will live long in the memory of staff and boys.

David’s contribution to Radley extended beyond Chapel. David played golf and cricket for the staff teams, and coached an unbeaten Midgets rugby side. He raised money himself for charity and encouraged boys to do the same. The illustrated book of Durham Cathedral in his office showed him to be a passionate northerner. David remains a Research Fellow at St John’s College, and his son, James, followed his steps to Durham, as his first-choice university, to read Theology.

David leaves Chapel in good heart. Confirmation numbers are high. The boys sing heartily and appreciate the opportunity for quiet reflection after a busy day. This is in no small measure due to David’s calm leadership over the past decade, and Chigwell School will now benefit from his wealth of experience. As he and Elaine move closer to London, this will allow them to spend more time with their daughter, Catherine, and their son, James. We wish them all the very best of futures.

Andy Bishop

It was the summer of 2016 when Beryl and Norman Haggett finally decided to call it a day. They had been very special to Radley over many years. Experienced prep schoolteachers, they understood the step from prep school to senior school, and were ideal in looking after the weaker mathematicians in the lower school, and covering the SEN provision. Replacing them seemed an impossible ask. But, by some extraordinary turn of fate, it happened to be the case that their retirement coincided with Andy Bishop’s decision to leave Summer Fields. Andy and Jane arrived at Summer Fields as houseparents in 1990. He then worked his way to Head of Maths, Deputy Head of School, and Senior Master. He had reached the stage where he still wanted some input into boarding school life, but not on a full-time basis. The match was perfect for Radley, and for the last six years Andy has taught Shell 7 and offered 1-1 support in central hours for any boy in the lower school who just needs a bit of extra help. Radley was very lucky to find someone with Andy’s skills, patience, and experience to fill this vital role.

Of course, as with all good schoolmasters, it is not just the classroom that fills the days. Andy is a regular participant in Common Room Cricket and Common Room Hockey, and he was also Master i/c Real Tennis. Away from Radley he edits the PG Wodehouse Society Magazine. Now, six years after leaving Summer Fields, he has decided that the time really has come to retire. Well, I say that, but he will continue to run Eton Fives at Summer Fields. At least Jane will see a bit more of him. Andy has served Radley with distinction and minimum fuss over the last six years. It was our good fortune that he came our way in September 2016. Always the gentleman, and the consummate professional, he leaves with our very best wishes for the future.

GW

Eliza Gearing

Eliza joined Radley fresh from St Anne’s, Oxford, in September 2018, and brought youthful energy and enthusiasm to the Classics Department, where she stepped into the shoes, and classroom, of SAH. As she moved in, she told us she had found her Finals term exhausting. A few months later as the Christmas holiday began, she confessed that she now really knew the meaning of hard work!

This situation arose out of her willingness to get stuck into the various dimensions of a full boarding school. She taught a full timetable of Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation, and right from the start was an enthusiastic coach in the Boat Club. She also settled nicely into E Social, as Sub-Tutor and Form Master with Removes and Shells. This concatenation led to a great weekend in early May, where her busy Monday to Friday was rounded off with 20 hours at regattas on the Saturday and Sunday, with a Leavers’ Dinner in between! In E, her openness and naturally sympathetic nature were a real boon for boys who wanted a bit more emotional support than the average Radleian, and their gratitude to her was clear to see.

Eliza was 22 and with no formal teaching experience when she arrived. Four years on, she has not only acquired detailed knowledge across our three subjects, but also become adept in classroom management and, thanks to lockdown falling in the middle of her tenure, the technology demanded by remote and mixed teaching. She also acquired a grade of outstanding in her on-the-job PGCE, and it was a real pleasure to observe her at work, on occasion calmly juggling iPad, PC and projector and simultaneously maintaining the focus and enthusiasm of most of a classroom plus several boys on different continents.

Although by nature a fairly low-key individual, Eliza also enjoyed socialising with Common Room, and on occasion could be coaxed into showing off her considerable piano-playing ability in various extravaganzas with the Music Department. She made some good friends, not least with other dog owners with whom she walked the ever-lively Timi, the Romanian rescue dog with whom she arrived. Most importantly, she arrived EJHL and leaves EJG, thereby having created yet another Gearing email address for the Common Room directory. It is no surprise that having married a South African she is leaving our shores for adventure. Should she be back in this country when we have a vacancy for a Classicist, she will be very welcome to apply. In the meantime, we wish her well for her exciting future beyond the College, and thank her for her contribution to it over the last four years.

Anneliese Davies

Anneliese joined us in 2018. She came for interview and immediately impressed with her brilliantly smooth Spanish. She loves singing and once she told me that, at school, the equivalent of Partsong was her night. That musical ear must be behind her near native speaker accent in Spanish. Another impressive bit of her CV was the fact that Anneliese also speaks Chinese. It is not an easy combination to find so we were thrilled!

However, I think it is safe to say that Spanish is her first love. She is a dedicated Hispanist, not only is she a huge fan of Latin music but she is very disciplined in regularly listening to the radio and tv in Spanish. Her passion for the language was palpable from the beginning. Anneliese quickly progressed in the department and was appointed Head of Spanish. Unfortunately, her first year at the post was the second year of the pandemic and she had to deal with the tricky and stressful time of TAGs while being heavily pregnant with her twins Jago and Amaia.

Anneliese also contributed to several areas of school life. She coached M4 rugby for two years and she threw herself into the sport, she would lead sessions and learn new techniques to teach them ably. Her enthusiasm as a coach was brilliant and during her time only two matches were lost. In addition to this, Anneliese was MiC of Polo which she revitalised and ran smoothly and efficiently. She participated in a plethora of the school’s activities, for instance, she ran the muddy steeplechase with the boys, and she was a regular at the staff Touch Rugby.

While she was a live-in Sub-Tutor in L social, she was a constant source of positivity and fun in the Social. She used to run yoga sessions on Sunday mornings for the boys and would pamper them with sweets and chocolate as she did the rounds during duty. One student said “Mrs Davies was a brilliantly kind Sub-Tutor who would always have time to chat with anyone. Her cocoas were the highlight of any week in social, whether we would all be chatting the evening away, playing with the ever-adorable Inca or singing Spanish and English songs together (if badly!). Me Rehúso by Danny Ocean was a particular fan favourite, of course.”

It is clear that Anneliese made her mark while at Radley. We wish her, Jamie, Amaia and Jago all the best in their exciting new adventure in Kuala Lumpur.

GCD

Sean Ramsden

All the adverts went out as normal for a teaching position in all the normal places, but as a department we posted the vacancy on Facebook and Twitter to see if we could tap into the various groups that exist. Within hours I had a message from Sean, and it all looked promising, so whilst passing this information on, I was asked to see if I could arrange for him to come for an interview. After a few hastily arranged meetings, Sean was offered the job

in a record 48 hours from it first being advertised – unheard of, especially for a DT teacher.

When Sean started in September 2020, he was given the full range of year groups. It wasn’t an easy time to arrive as we were teaching in the workshop, but everything was seriously restricted because of the covid bubble system. However, Sean stepped up to this and made it engaging and fun for all he taught, despite not being able to carry out any meaningful practical work. He very quickly found his feet and settled into college life, becoming a well-respected and knowledgeable teacher, Shell Form Master and J Social Sub-Tutor. In his second year at Radley, he was appointed Head of Academic Support and took on the mammoth task of ensuring all the access arrangements were in place for the boys, something that I know he is deeply passionate about. If that wasn’t enough, Sean still continued in the design department teaching a Vth form GCSE set and his favourite Shell 7 class, that have benefitted greatly from his friendly, approachable manner.

Prior to Sean getting the job at Radley he was months away from emigrating to Australia to start a new life in the surf and sun, but as covid took a grip this was all put on hold. Only in the last 6 months or so, the situation has improved, and the plan is now finally going to be a reality. So, in the middle of July Sean and his partner will be moving to Sydney, so we say farewell and thank him for everything he has done. Ironically, it won’t be long before Sean will meet up with a Radley connection again, however this time it will be in Sydney with our very own antipodean BRK.   RJ

Jenny Lemke-Jeremy

Jenny joined Radley in September 2021, when she began preparations for a maternity cover role in the modern languages department. She was already known to Andria Pancrazi, who had met her while she was working as a Lektorin at the University of Oxford and, in many ways, she knew what to expect when walking through the doors of David Rae Smith. It was a good match, especially as she was already a qualified secondary school teacher with plenty of experience in getting students to speak the target language.

There is no doubt that Jenny has been a warm and friendly presence in the classroom for boys learning German and French. She was also an incredibly popular and supportive Shell Form Master in L Social. She thought carefully about how to tackle early morning lessons, motivating pupils with games and varied activities, and made herself available at all times of the day to practise conversation skills. Boys looked forward to her classes and were keen to meet her high expectations. Casual chats were always entertaining, covering topics as varied as Reunification and the complicated digestive tract of her pet rabbit. More important, Jenny was keen to contribute to the department, going so far as to set up an online exchange with a partner school for girls in Münster. More visible perhaps were the regular treats that would appear in the languages office at the end of a long week, usually ‘Made in Germany’ – natürlich

After a year in secondary education, Jenny is setting off to Bonn with her wife Kate to begin a job at a bilingual primary school. We wish her every success and lots of fun in this new endeavour. We also thank her greatly for her generosity, good humour, flexibility and hard work.

Mell Devlin

“You must be a triage nurse, a councillor, a fire-fighter, a chef, a home economics expert, a police officer, a taxi driver, injury guru, personal shopper, full-time housekeeper… but, most of all… a best friend.” - Mell Devlin on being a PHM, June 2022

The numbers tell only some of the story of one of Radley’s most esteemed, B-est loved, and longest-serving PHMs. Over the course of 44 terms, 200 boys have benefited from Mell’s meticulous care; she has covered 3,000 miles doing rounds of social; she has flipped over 13,000 burgers on the BBQ (her ‘braai’); she has baked over 900 birthday cakes; grated 1.5 tonnes of cheddar for her legendary cheese-on-toast; and she has worked tirelessly with two Tutors, five residential Sub-Tutors, dozens of non-residential ‘subbies’, Med Centre nurses, cleaners and caretakers and gardeners.

Therefore, it is little wonder that all corners of the College were queuing up to express their gratitude in the final weeks of her extraordinary tenure. She attended a Council dinner, an OR reunion, a CR dinner and a Med Centre soiree; was invited to share her wisdom and sagacity from the CR fender; she gave a fabulous final Social Prayers in her B-eloved social; indeed, the accolades from past and present pupils and parents continue to pour in as this vale goes to print.

It seems right to share some of these sentiments here – adding my own Hear! Hear! to each.

A member of CR said: “Whenever I met Mell she was always downto-earth, had a great sense of humour, and genuinely cared for every boy – somehow she understands and can empathise with the teenage brain!”

A past B Social Pup said: “Mrs D was the unsung hero of B. I don’t know how you put up with us for 5 years, but you made our time all the more happy, hilarious, and memorable.”

The current Pup said: “You are like a second mother to each of us - the beating heart of Social, ensuring boys have the tools to thrive and B won’t be the same without you.”

Some parents of both current and recent OR pupils said: “We are unconditional fans of Mrs D, who is loved by the boys and always on hand to provide care, confidence, and cake!” and “Mrs D is by far the best second mum you could ask for to look after your sons.”

What it says on one of her Bob Marley posters in the Cocoa Room about her much-missed homeland: “Mash it up in Zimbabwe.”

And the boys’ Beatles-themed tribute to Mell in my first and last Cultural Evening with her: “…Let it B, let it B, let it B, let it B, There’s only one answer, Mrs D. Mrs D!  Mrs D!  Mrs D!  Mrs D! Whisper words of wisdom, Mrs D…”

But perhaps it is the unsaid and unseen that reveal the most about Mell: that she produces an annual photobook for the gardeners celebrating their wonderful work or the fact that she takes gifts to the JR and MIU each term to thank them for their care of the boys, to name just two of the multitude of her quiet acts of kindness…

I will simply end this pen portrait for a great colleague, a great PHM, and a great friend with Mell’s favourite catchphrase-pre-fix that so often lit up her face - and the room with it. It encapsulates her decade and a half of loyal, level-headed service to the College and more than anything it embodies her ability to combine a remarkable sense of perspective and a wonderful sense of fun. Quite simply: “I laugh…!” We will all miss you enormously Mell. Thank you. Good luck in the future; but of course, never goodBye…

CESM

Yvonne Marsh-Wilson

The saying goes “still waters run deep” and since Yvonne started with us in the Medical Centre back in 2015, we have learnt that this is very much the case. With a calm and measured approach, Yvonne was always on the go. With a wonderful sense of humour, coupled with exceptional timing, she could render you laughing so hard, or simply speechless, without missing a beat.

Yvonne is the epitome of what a Nurse should be – caring and compassionate, along with being a true lady. As such a gentle and softly spoken character, I often wondered whether this lulled some pupils into thinking that they should maybe see her to ask for a rest when feeling a bit weary of the school day. Funnily enough, we’ve seen many a pupil depart Yvonne’s room with the words “go out and give it a go” ringing in their ears. Caring? Yes. A soft touch? No! A trusted colleague who always went the extra mile to help others with shift swaps, or to fill a gap when someone was off sick. A wonderful mentor who helped new nurses settle in and learn the ropes of school nursing, an absolute team player.

The pandemic was a time for Yvonne to shine and come into her own. Her organisation is second to none and her workstation for the mass Covid lateral flow testing clinics was a joy to behold. When she would leave for a break, or until the next session, she would always joke (at least I think it was a joke…) that we were not to touch her work bench. We teased that we might, but none of us did and we all followed her example as best we could.

The hashtag “what would Yvonne do” will live on for years to come. Yvonne will leave a big hole in the Medical Centre team and will be hugely missed. Our loss is very much someone else’s gain. We wish her and David, along with Catherine and James, all the very best in their new endeavours.

AMG

Debbie Myles

Debbie Myles joined F Social in 2018, under Christian San José, and swiftly won the endearment of boys and parents alike. An experienced pastoral hand, she knew the importance of a friendly welcome and the corridors of F echoed with her cheerful engagements, interspersed with the regular beat of her flip-flops. She also knew the power of food in keeping the boys happy and she sustained her legendary Sunday night cocoas with delights ranging from macaroni cheese to chocolate fondues and various delights from the deep fat fryer. The 6.2 were always fiercely loyal, no doubt in part thanks to the timely leftovers she would return with after dinner with Stuart on her night off. Others spoke of the hand-made cakes she would leave outside her door, or the attention and food parcels she would flood them with when illness struck.

Debbie loved sharing her experiences with the boys, returning jubilantly from a Deacon Blue concert to regale the senior boys before bed. The boys loved her fantastic sense of humour (matched by Stuart’s dry wit) and her kindness, amazed by how her smile survived repeated trips to hospital, or another central demand for lateral flow tests. They knew she was always there for them, and she would help with kind ear, bacon sandwiches and her American Cockers, Argo and Effie (also regulars on the Saturday afternoon touchlines). Debbie maintained strong personal relations with others across the support staff too and will be missed. I am grateful for the patient way in which she helped steer me in my first year as Tutor, especially with the challenges of Covid outbreaks. She will have deserved a wonderful summer in a copper bath in her house in France. Our loss is certainly Shrewsbury’s gain.

TCHN

Abbie Brand

Abbie arrived into E Social last September to take on the role of PHM – the social’s first new PHM for 11 years. She had a boarding school background with her father being the current Bursar of St Mary’s Ascot, and she had attended the school herself as a student. Her previous jobs had included time on the prison service graduate scheme – so life in a boarding house held no fears.

It was clear from day one that not only was she incredibly hard working, but also one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet. The boys warmed to her immediately, and her calm, kind persona only served to strengthen E Social as a community. Her first term was punctuated by the ongoing admin around the Covid pandemic, and at Christmas time we calculated she had chased up something in the region of 2000 lateral flow test results. The house has run incredibly smoothly under her watch, but – more importantly – she has been a confidante to the boys, as well as great fun throughout. We wish her (and Aidan) the best of luck as she moves onto a different career path.

We may have only had her for one year, but her impact will be long felt. Upon announcing she would be leaving in July a 6.2 boy went straight to her flat to thank her for all her hard work, and say that he felt sorry that future E Social boys who wouldn’t have her as their PHM. She has also – in a short space of time – become a great friend to many of us in the Radley community, and we all look forward to seeing her back at Radley in the not so distant future.

Though Emma’s dog has very short legs, it quickly became apparent that she has some stamina, and very happily accepted the challenge of long walks to the Boathouse and back in the hope of catching a snippet of Boat Club action. Emma has been a loyal supporter of boys in their matches and is always keen to find out how those she has missed have gone. Similarly, she has fully immersed herself into the Radley Music Scene, avidly supporting boys in concerts whenever possible.

Emma has driven boys to Blackbird Leys once a week (and often more, indeed) to facilitate a Radley Readers’ Partnership with Orchard Meadow and Pegasus Primary Schools, and she also helped with the Radley Village Flower Show.

Emma has been very caring towards the boys in D Social over this year. While it has only been a relatively short stint, she has had an impact on the lives of many of the boys, often giving sage and calm advice to boys in a fluster over something or other. And all this in a time where she has been finding her feet herself. Unfortunately, just as she has found them, circumstances have taken her away from Radley; we wish her the very best for her future and she leaves with our grateful thanks for her year of dedicated service to the Social. HC

Romy Catmull

Recruiting late into the summer term can induce a touch of anxiety, however it was clear upon Romy’s arrival for interview last June that the history department need not have worried: we would be the fortunate beneficiaries of a highly talented Graduate in Residence. A graduate of Oxford and Sciences Po, with a stint studying in Beijing and recent completion of the Graduate Diploma in Law also behind her, Romy has taken to teaching like a true natural. Despite being asked to teach entirely new material, she has mastered the A Level and iGCSE course content with ease, generously providing grateful colleagues with a range of expert resources and delivering lessons that were, from the off, engaging and crammed with insight. It has been Romy’s unstinting patience and dedication to her pupils that has been the most notable feature of her year at Radley, however. Whether it be the extra revision sessions that she held ahead of exams, the hand-written postcards to acknowledge boys’ achievements, or the superb evening extension sessions she delivered to keen 6.1 historians, the number of boys she has impacted positively upon in the relatively short time that she has spent with us is mightily impressive.

Emma Lovell

Emma joined D Social as PHM following nearly a decade as a Boutique Shop Manager in Kirkby Lonsdale. Her innate style was immediately obvious in her appearance, her extremely neat and tidy dog (Sheba) and the minimalist approach to furnishing the PHM flat, which always seemed immaculate. She did, therefore, have a fairly low threshold for boys who didn’t possess quite the same standards, with some quite testing characters on this front making her rather unnerved. Shells were offered bribes of a Haribo prize to keep their rooms in order, and it proved to be amazing what they will do for a gummy bear.

Romy’s charisma and enthusiasm have made her a popular figure beyond the classroom. She has relished the opportunity to play a full role pastorally as a sub-tutor in G Social, dispensing wise advice and kindly support in equal measure. And her natural eloquence has helped her to propel the Radley debating scene to even greater heights, whilst also underpinning her status as a prized signing on the Social Prayers circuit. Her co-coaching of the basketball team led to a number of victories on court, and MEW has repeatedly been at pains to emphasise just how integral she was to the team’s successes. Whilst we are very sorry to see Romy leave, we wish her well as she turns her attention to a career in corporate law with Arnold Porter’s international arbitration team. Suffice to say the teaching profession would be strengthened greatly should she ever wish to return to the classroom in future.

TCL

David Clarós Morales

David joined the MFL department as the Spanish assistant in 2020. He came from Barcelona after his brother Ferrán and close friend Marc had been in his position as well.

It has been wonderful having David in the department. His great sense of humour, accompanied by his constant willingness to help and support in any way he could, has made him a well-esteemed member of the department who will be missed in the DRS office.

In the words of some of the boys, ‘everyone always had fun with him and he always found time for every single student’ and ‘his extensive football (and specifically Barca) knowledge always made for fun discussions’. Our linguists benefitted hugely, not only from his expertise in football but also from his approachable personality and his first-hand knowledge of Spanish culture and the political challenges the country faces.

His influence was not limited to DRS, however. He is a keen sportsman who has been an essential member of the racket sports and football clubs. In tennis, he has helped with Shell and Senior II coaching. In football, he coached the 3rds this year with Stephen Giddens and planned most sessions to perfection, pushing the boys to their skill limits with his activities.

His calm but sharp wit will leave a lasting mark in MFL, but we hope he does not forget us and he comes to visit us again in the future. I and everyone else in the department are grateful to him for everything he has done for us and our linguists. As Tom Way said about him: ‘Muchas gracias por toda tu ayuda durante los últimos dos años. Disfruto muchísimo que me enseñes’

Tereza Horacek

Tereza has been the Graduate Assistant in the Art Department this year 2021-22 and, I say this unreservedly, has been a tremendous hit with both the boys and staff. She has done a huge amount to help the department, boost its creativity with her fresh ideas and energy, and help guide boys with their work.

As many of you will know, Tereza is a considerably talented artist and has painted an excellent portrait of one of our College Founders as well as creating a mural in the new Radley housing development. However, on top of these enviable skills, Tereza has also demonstrated an approachable and easy manner with the boys, giving them her time to benefit from her valuable advice, support, and wealth of knowledge of contemporary artists. Around the department, I have been tremendously grateful for all of her help in its day to day running; from hanging art exhibitions and covering lessons to accompanying the many departmental trips to galleries, museums, falconries and public gardens.

Her energy and enthusiasm saw her become Master in Charge of Fives and, despite not knowing how to play at the start, she quickly learnt how to organise and master the sport and put together excellent match day programmes that were greatly enjoyed by the boys. She even coped admirably in her first match play where she had to play with and against identical twins.

Utterly dependable and great company, she brightened and enlightened our lives. Tereza will be greatly missed across College. We wish her well in her new post of Teacher of Art at Magdalen College School and hope that this is not goodbye but À bientôt.

RT

Kaia Sherry

When I interviewed Kaia Sherry for the role of Cook Fellow in spring 2021, it was obvious that she was right for the role. I had already been deeply impressed by Kaia’s rich curriculum vitae, which was full of highly relevant internships in student journalism and community work at UCLA – from where Kaia graduated in 2021, with a BA in English and French.

I was also intrigued by her heritage. She told me all about her Cambodian family and the murderous horrors they had suffered under the Khmer Rouge. Even though she was of course delighted that the family had been able to escape to the West, things had been difficult for that immigrant community within the USA. I could see therefore that Kaia would be perfect at continuing the Cook Fellow tradition of importing into Radley the optimism and energy which so many Americans possess, but that her own experiences and background would bring something special.

Kaia has been an extraordinarily positive member of the English Department. Mr Nash describes her as ‘human Berocca’. The time she has taken over individuals learning English has been exemplary. She brought perspectives to the study of literature and culture at Radley which were entirely unique: witness her talk to the Shell and Remove on ‘Necropolitics and Marvel’s ‘Black Panther’’, which Mr Nash describes as ‘one of the most thrilling and inscrutable things I’ve ever witnessed’.

This is the Cook Fellowship in action as intended, whereby fresh faces with powerful and original intellects inform the boys

¡Suerte David y mil gracias por todo! MMC

in ways which are essential in educational provision. The other Cook Fellow for this academic year, Connor Thune, speaks with warmth on how Kaia helped him discover the etymological origins of his own Norwegian family surname – another example of Kaia’s endless drive for academic exploration, combined with kindness. As she leaves Radley, Kaia should know that she has been a tremendous success and has fulfilled all the goals I hoped for, and much more. We wish her all the best for her time at Oxford University, where she will be studying for a Master’s degree.

SR

Connor Thune

Pretty much everything happened online in 2021 in one form or another, and true to form, via a Zoom call both Connor and myself along with BRK got chatting design. Then just as if we were right back in the thick of online teaching he started to share his screen and proceeded to show a handful of impressive looking projects and started to explain his design thoughts behind them –something that would be hugely transferable to what we do in the Design Engineering department.

So, at the beginning of September Connor arrived ready to get stuck into a whole range of classes across all the years. He threw himself into the Shell projects and became the in-house MIG welding guru, who must have helped nearly all 150 shells complete their projects! But where he really came into his own was with the GCSE and A-level candidates, by providing advice and 1-2-1 support on our CAD software, ensuring they were capable of accessing many of the advanced features on offer. In addition, he challenged many of the students to think differently and consider alternative solutions to their design problems.

Connor wasn’t just to be found in the Design engineering department, he also contributed to Colts 3XI football and sixth form Lacrosse sessions, where he concentrated his effort on coaching the goal keepers. He also enjoyed the friendships he developed during his time here and was a key member of the annual common room trip to Dublin, which I know certainly made an impression on him.

Connor departs back to the US with all our good wishes to finish off his studies at Columbus College of Art and Design.

Maddy Trépanier

In my second year of teaching, my fierce HoD was infuriated by a teacher saying something was ‘a bit academic for our kids’. ‘Teachers ARE academics’, she retorted, red-faced. Well, that was a wonderful aspiration, but not really true of that school. Maddy is without question, and in the very best sense of the word, an academic.

RJ

A valued member of K Social, Maddy’s Cocoa discussions became legendary among the boys, many of whom were introduced to social theories and political analyses which opened their eyes to wilder shores than those they had yet known. Her timekeeping did not always match her enthusiasm – I once watched her buttonholed by Tessa after having forgotten to go to the Cultural Evening and punished in the nicest way by submitting to a full run-through of every item on that illustrious programme. Nevertheless, her commitment to the boys in the round was unquestionable, and everyone she encountered was improved by the meeting.

I had the bright idea, months ago, of putting on a celebration of Shakespeare in Arcadia. A week before the performance, I was still writing the script. With 48 hours to go, Maddy, an experienced and successful director, took (somewhat frustrated) charge. By the night, we had an energised cast, bunting, lanterns, costumes, and a superb medley of Shakespeare taking in a dozen plays in the last frenetic, hilarious 15 minutes of the play. She is a force of nature, a hilarious gossip, a brilliant close critic, and, I hope I may say, a wonderful friend. We will miss her hugely, but wish her well in whatever corner of human achievement she pursues.

DJTS

Annette Zschau

Our German assistant piqued curiosity in her first week. Boys were uncertain whether to use du or Sie in conversation with this highly qualified professional from Bavaria, and most were unable to get their tongues around her surname, having learnt to pronounce ‘z’ as an affricate and ‘sch’ as a sibilant. Fortunately, the Italian ‘ciao’ was close enough. And there was her yellow rucksack. What could be inside? Sweets? Games?

After almost a full year of online sessions with Louisa Karnbrock, boys were excited to have conversation lessons in person again. Annette was friendly, patient and demanding. Her chosen environment was a spare classroom rather than the foyer, where her charges may have been distracted by discussions in French happening at the same time. Everyone involved was so engrossed that most sessions overran – one small step to combat national stereotypes in the department. Boys returned to class with copious notes and bespoke phrases such as ‘Sorry, I’m absolutely shattered because I had to go to S&C at the crack of dawn.’

From an old Canadian family of ice-merchants, daughter of two superb academics herself, she has brought the fire of enthusiasm and the ice of her stratospheric standards to the English Department over the past 7 months. I do not think that a Shakespeare class has ever been better prepared than her Hamlet group in 6.2: to see a boy, not amongst the stars of the year, avidly discussing Kristeva’s theory of the Abject in relation to Hamlet and Gertrude whilst queuing for chicken nuggets, was inspirational.

Our native speakers were pleasantly surprised to discover that Annette happens to be an expert in economics, which resulted in many sessions dedicated to technical topics. They were also ejected from regular lessons once a week to study a short literary masterpiece with her, leaving their remaining solitary classmate to get on with the business of language acquisition. All Sixth Formers were impressed by Annette’s knowledge about their chosen research projects and appreciated her thorough interrogation skills.

Annette visited Radley just one day a week and often continued to work remotely with students around the world late into the evening. We thank her for supporting the boys and wish her all the best: Tschau, Frau Zschau!

RADLEY THEN AND NOW

Radley College from the air: above in the 1950s, and below in 2022. The Warden’s House, bottom right, has now become part of the new L Social which opened its doors in 2020. Newer buildings can also be seen in the centre of the campus including Queen’s Court, opened in 1997 and the expanded Science Centre, opened in 2019.

Radley Then and Now

The ‘Gate Photo’

In 1860, twelve Radley boys gathered together at a gate in the grounds for an informal photo. The College Socials were still at an early stage of development, and this might be one of the earliest photos of a full Social.

▶ Standing on the left are Charles A P Talbot (Senior Prefect 1860), Henry G L Crichton (Senior Prefect 1862), and William T Monsell.

For the 1969 edition of The Radleian a group of boys recreated the image taken over 100 years earlier. The boys were picked due to their similar appearance to the original figures, and the photo was taken at a gate at the beginning of the road towards Cheesers, looking back towards B Social.

We have been able to identify a number of the 1969 boys: Standing (L – R): Alex Boswell (1964, C) Klause MacFarlane (1965, A) Richard Westropp (1964, H) Jonathan Tootell (1966, H) (?) Hilary Clifford-Brown (1964, C) (?) John Beare (1966, B) The two on the right are currently unidentified. And lying on the left is (?) Stephen Goddard (1966, C) Other three currently unidentified.

Is this you?

Let us know by emailing radsoc@radley.org.uk

Radley Then and Now

To mark the 175th anniversary, the photo has been recreated again. We found twelve willing boys among the College's 175 Ambassadors, and told them to meet the photographer at a gate near the Countryside Centre during Short Break. Just as in the 1969 version, care was taken to match the arrangement, poses and expressions of the original photo. Getting twelve boys to assemble at Cheesers from their various activities across the school, arrange themselves, and study their characters, all in half an hour between lessons was no small feat. They were all good sports, though, and took the task seriously.

The 2022 recreation, celebrating the 175th Anniversary of Radley College.

Radley Then and Now

The evolution of Chapel, the heart of the College

The exterior of the east end of Chapel in 2022 with the east apse extension.

The exterior of the east end of Chapel, summer 1952.

The extension to Chapel was completed in 2021, and a rededication took place in March 2022. The improvements include a spacious sanctuary with new stained glass, additional seating in the nave, and a new organ.

The Lodge, built in 1891, has changed very little and, while it was a residential house for a period of time, including to don & composer George Butterworth, its purpose is now once again welcoming guests and ensuring security. The horse chestnut trees behind that line the main drive have grown (the photo of Lodge from 1906, bottom left, shows the immature trees) and are now being supplemented with disease-resistant varieties due to the increase of leaf-mining moth and leaf blotch fungus.

The Lodge in 1891.

The Lodge and entrance gate in 1906.

The Lodge and entrance gate in 2022.

Radley Then and Now

‘Old School’, now the Richard Morgan Library, is a seventeenth century barn that was relocated by Sewell and Singleton from the original location beside the main gate. The exterior (above, 1906 and 2022) of the Old School has changed very little. Inside (below, 1890s and 2010s), the structure of the space feels similar, with wooden beams and stained glass intact. The space was initially a communal classroom for all students. As the College grew, ‘it was reserved for lower school preparation, roll call, the making of Prefects, school assemblies, examinations, entertainments, the formation of Chapel procession, and fights,’ (A. K. Boyd, Radley College 1847 –1947). During the Second World War, Eastbourne College used the Old School as their dining hall. After a prolonged stint as a useful multi-purpose room, it is once again the academic heart of the College – the Richard Morgan Library opened in 1996. Shop is one of Radley’s best-loved institutions, and has been running since the earliest years of the school. As well as the wellknown favourites – sweets, cans of coke, crisps, chicken rolls, even kebabs – Shop has also provided generations of boys with supplies of all descriptions, from gowns and ties, to stationery and books.

Shop and Rackets Court are seen on the right in 1906. This building, with a three-sided verandah, opened in 1894.

The exterior of the Old School from Clocktower Court, c. 1906.

The Old School in 1892.

Old School, now the library, 2022.

By the 1930s, Shop had been extended, and joined to Memorial Arch by the Shop Manager’s house, and included a tea room.

In 2022, Shop has reopened following extensive expansion and renovation. It includes a living wall, and can seat over 130 guests.

Richard Morgan Library, refurbished in 1996, pictured here in 2016.

UPLIFTING LIGHT FOR A SACRED SPACE

As part of the project to extend the chapel at Radley College, creating an east apse, new stained glass was commissioned from Rachel Thomas, designer and senior conservator at York Glazier Trust. Her brief was to create a ‘jewel box’, inspired by the beautiful examples of early 20th century stained glass already present in the windows of Chapel.

The first building to be commissioned in 1847 for the newly founded Radley College was the chapel, designed by the Oxford architect Henry Jones Underwood. Underwood was well-known to Sewell and had previously designed Newman’s church at Littlemore, which had become the spiritual home of the Oxford Movement. The exterior of his chapel at the school bore striking resemblance to Littlemore church.

Internally, the building was originally painted white, with furnishings which were a mixture of new pieces and antique items acquired by Sewell. These latter included the reredos, seventeenth century wooden pillars from Spain, and a series of re-used stained-glass windows. The windows at the east end were positioned high on the wall to accommodate the reredos which was disproportionately large for the building. Indeed, creating a suitable backdrop for it has been a constant endeavour in both of Radley’s chapels, most recently the stone surround given by John Pattinson in memory of his brother in the early 2000s: its position in the new apse, flanked on either side by the new stained-glass windows by York Glazier Trust, is the solution.

Underwood’s chapel was a temporary structure. In 1889, the school acquired the freehold of Radley Hall and embarked upon an ambitious building programme: the jewel in the crown was a much larger chapel designed by another Oxford architect, Sir Thomas Graham Jackson.

St Michael as depicted in window 6 of the south side of Chapel, dating from 1917. This window was given in memory of ORs 2nd Lt James Freeman and 2nd Lt. Gilbert Whittet (both 1910, C) who were killed in action in France, 1916. It is possible that the face of St Michael was made to resemble Whittet.

The colours from this window were used by designer Rachel Thomas in her commission to produce new stained glass for Chapel.

Jackson was an admirer of Ruskin and a follower of the Arts and Crafts Movement. He was trained in the offices of Gilbert Scott. His architectural style incorporated Gothic Revival alongside

The Burlison & Grylls stained glass windows in Chapel, dating mostly from turn of the 20th century, contain rich colours that cast beautiful light across the brickwork.

▶ Cartoon from 1897 by Burlison & Grylls for a memorial window to William Sewell, Founder of Radley and 3rd Warden who died in 1874. The design is present in Chapel as window 5 on the south side. It depicts the Fathers of the Church: Ambrose, Gregory, Jerome, Augustine. The window was given by friends and colleagues as his main memorial at the school in 1897, the 50th anniversary of founding Radley.

Italianate elements and Arts and Crafts philosophy. His major commissions at Oxford began with the Examination Schools –linked to educational reform at Oxford University. He was also employed by many of the public schools, most often designing science blocks or infirmaries: his first building at Radley was a new infirmary which included an operating theatre. By commissioning Jackson, Radley College was positioning itself among the leading schools of the recently established Headmasters’ Conference and at the forefront of contemporary institutional architectural fashion.

Work began on the new chapel in 1893 and was completed in 1895. Many of the fittings from Underwood’s chapel were re-used, including the reredos, carved pillars, and organ, but not the windows. These eventually left the school’s possession in unknown circumstances. In 1939, six panels of Underwood’s glass depicting apostles were returned to Radley from St Cyprian’s Prep School in Eastbourne.

Photographs of Underwood’s chapel show that these six surviving windows are just a fraction of the whole sequence. Attempts were made in the 1950s and 1970s to display them in Chapel, but without success. One panel is now mounted on a light box at the entrance. Three more are displayed in the Art Department. Rachel Thomas drew inspiration from the colours in this surviving old glass and from the grisaille designs in the Burlison & Grylls windows for the new glass in the apse in 2021.

Uplifting Light for a Sacred Space

Originally, all the windows in Jackson’s chapel were clear glazed. The stained-glass windows were completed by the Arts and Crafts firm of Burlison & Grylls between 1894 and 1919, each of them given in memory of an individual. Such a relatively short space of time allowed a consistency of design and coherence of sequence to emerge. The earliest is the east window, dedicated in 1895 at the opening of the chapel. It was given in memory of George Brooke who died during the influenza epidemic of 1894 whilst still at the school, aged 17. It depicts Christ in Glory.

All the windows on the north and south walls have a central register of four full-length figures each above a lower band in

grisaille of either stylised flowers or scenes from the life of the individual above. All those on the south side depict New Testament apostles, saints, or Fathers of the Church; those on the north side depict Old Testament characters. The surviving cartoon of the south side’s window 5, given in 1897 to commemorate co-founder William Sewell, is typical of the series.

Two windows are memorials to Old Radleians who fell in the First World War. One in memory of Captain Charles Henderson MC, depicts General Gordon and General Roberts of Kandahar above scenes of an artillery unit in the Battle of the Somme, biplanes and an image of Henderson’s battlefield grave taken from a photograph. A portrait of the soldier is included, taken from the school’s War Memorial albums.

The second war memorial window was jointly dedicated to two friends who died on the Western Front within months of each other. A portrait of each is included and it is possible that their faces are shown in the heroic figures in the central register: this is known to have been a practice of Burlison & Grylls. The symbolism here is almost Pre-Raphaelite in

Henderson's battlefield grave

its imagery: King Alfred, patron of learning, shown above a scene of shipbuilding, the Archangel Michael defeating the devil, St George shown fighting the dragon, and King Arthur, champion of chivalry, above an image of the mourning Ladies of the Lake with a quotation from Tennyson. It was dedicated in 1917.

Rachel Thomas, designer and senior conservator at York Glazier Trust, was commissioned by Radley in 2019 to design the new stained glass in the chapel extension. The architect’s vision for the apse which was to house the altar and reredos was to draw the eye into an inviting space with a central octagonal window set into a dark oak-beamed ceiling: natural light would flood down from above. The stained glass was to create a jewel box – ‘which is the dream of the stained-glass artist!’ Her brief was to incorporate a palette of rich blues and reds taken from the oldest glass and to include the symbols of the Passion which are carved into the stalls and the stonework of Jackson’s chapel, alongside the school’s emblems, the crossed keys of St Peter, and the serpent and dove.

Uplifting Light for a Sacred Space

The new windows themselves are very tall and narrow, set deep into the embrasure so that the glass itself remains hidden from sight until the viewer stands directly in front of them. Deep blues, purples, tones of red, blend into orange, warm golden yellow, and pale yellow tints lead upwards to palest blues: ‘I wanted the new glass to hold the onlooker still whilst lifting their eyes to the heavens through a range of colours of the rainbow.’ The symbols tone into the background incorporating a grisaille pattern taken from Burlison & Grylls’ windows.

The effect of the new glass is indeed a wash of rainbow light flanking the altar and reredos, drawing the onlooker to this central, sacred space.

Clare Sargent, Archivist

THE RACE THAT IS SET BEFORE US

Harry Rycroft (1957, G) found his passion for middle distance running at Radley, and quickly began to set records. His particular love of running barefoot, and connection to the War Memorial Mile race, are part of a much deeper story.

Sixty years ago, on a cold January day, the school turned out together to celebrate the opening of their new cinder running track, funded by the College’s War Memorial Committee. Captain of Athletics, Harry Rycroft, then aged 18 and coming to the end of his time at Radley, opened the track by running a lap alongside the Olympic gold medallist and world mile record holder, Herb Elliot. The previous spring, 1961, Harry had run a mile on grass at Stowe in 4 minutes 37 seconds, an astonishing accomplishment by any standards but, unusually, Harry achieved this in bare feet.

This College record, as far as we can ascertain, still stands. Harry was a fitting student to open the track on behalf of the school, not only because of his stellar running career at the College, but also because he had come to Radley on a War Memorial Bursary. On the day of the track opening, the Chairman of the Council, Radley’s governing body, said of the War Memorial Committee:

“It was an inspired thought by them to have given the school such an amenity. No more suitable and visible token could have been conceived in memory of those who were cut off in the two wars, having won the race before age could weary them. They are an example to us, who survive, to run with patience the race that is set before us.”

Harry running the cross country v Charterhouse in spring 1961.

Harry Rycroft spectating at the War Memorial Mile race at Radley in July 2022.

The race that is set before us

Running around without any shoes is something that Harry remembers from his earliest childhood. He and his sister lived with their mother Cicely, on Chanonry Point, a small and remote peninsula on the north side of the Moray Firth. The area is known for sandy beaches from which it is often possible to watch bottlenose dolphins. Harry recalls long summer days exploring the shoreline, climbing up the lighthouse, and riding the family’s Shetland pony.

Writing in the early 1940s from North Africa where he was stationed during the war, Colonel David H Rycroft, Harry’s father, advocated to his wife that children should have bare feet in the summer. Sadly, in November 1944, when Harry was only 20 months old and perhaps taking his first unsteady steps, Colonel Rycroft was killed in action, having never met his son.

Harry was accepted to Radley, joining in 1957 on a War Memorial Bursary. Quickly, he found that he could outpace his peers when running over rough ground, such as moorland in CCF exercises. “For the first two years I was a complete nonentity and ran because it was the one thing I was reasonably good at,” he says in his notes from the time. As he became increasingly serious about the sport, Harry took up a book by Australian athletics coach Percy Cerruty, which was formative in his training. His records and notes from the time show evidence of stringent exercise regimes, a carefully planned diet, and incredibly sensitive reflections on his own mental fitness and that of the athletics team.

Harry’s greatest achievements at Radley include his 4:37 mile in 1961, and the cross-country v Wellington in March 1962, in which he beat the previous College record by 2 minutes. Throughout the race, he was closely followed by David Vere Hodge, a talented runner and school friend. This was Harry’s final year at Radley, and the race was clearly a meaningful one at the time he was running it. In his race report, he recalls,

“I vaulted the gate and joined the road. At that point I was thinking that this was my last cross-country race. How sweet the air is up here. You must go fast down here. This is probably the last time you will come up here and among these pine trees. Take longer steps down here.”

On 1st July 2022, Harry returned to Radley to watch the second War Memorial Mile race, a yearly competition he conceived to celebrate athletic achievement, doing so in remembrance of the many ORs who fought in both World Wars. Slightly overcast, and with a strong breeze, the day was nonetheless a jubilant one as exams were over. It was the day before Gaudy, and spirits were high across the whole school. At the far end of Bigside a grass track had been painstakingly prepared and, before the contestants arrived, there was time for Harry to complete a quick lap – just to test the grass.

In ones and twos, runners of all ages arrived and started to warm up. Before long, supporters from Socials were lining the track, waving flags and cheering. In 1961, Harry had run the mile in 4:37, and he was waiting to see if any of these current Radley boys could beat his time. The starting gun rang out, and they were off. A valiant attempt was made by all the competitors, and an excellent time of 5:02 from the winner Max (6.1, D Social), but they all had a way to go to beat Harry’s time.

Harry declines the opportunity to give advice to aspiring young runners, humbly citing the profound difference the last sixty years have brought to lifestyles and sport at Radley. However, given the use of a time-travelling device, he says that he would go back and train the cross-country and athletics teams: “I’m sure we could achieve better results than we did in the 1950s and 1960s.”

Max, (6.1) D Social, leads the pack in the War Memorial Mile race, July 2022

Harry presenting the War Memorial Mile cup to Max, 2022 race winner

Harry’s father, David Rycroft, seated on the far right, as a prefect in 1926.

COVERED PASSAGE

Covered Passage has been a staple of Radley life since the earliest days of the College, when the Old School (now the Richard Morgan Library) was connected to Mansion by ‘Covered Way’, an open-sided cobbled passage with a slate roof supported by wooden pillars.

Covered Passage has been the stage for much more than simply coming and going. Its history includes running races, pony rides, postal services, museum displays, cakes sales and, of course, it is the perennial home of school notices –some more official than others.

As part of the 175th anniversary celebrations, Covered Passage has been redecorated, with new paint and lighting. An exciting timeline mural has been added to the east wall, documenting the incredible history of the College and Old Radleians.

1880s: Covered Passage looking towards Chapel

"That the walls of Covered Passage be painted with something that does not come off."

– Suggestions, The Radleian, Nov 1903

1906: Covered Passage looking towards Chapel

"That a case, like the new notice-board in Covered Passage, be put up as a receptacle for lost articles, such as knives and fountain pens."

– Suggestions, The Radleian, Mar 1908

The ‘Covered Way’ joined The Old School to Mansion. It was open-sided with a cobbled floor and slate roof.

The initial wooden flooring is laid, a set of long springy, widely spaced boards, noted later as being very noisy, and through which rats emerged, especially during the quiet vacation periods.

Walter Bradford Woodgate, one of Radley’s earliest pupils, performed a “singular athletic feat by running up and down its eighty yards a hundred times, and eating two pots of jam, in an hour”. Walter went on to become a renowned oarsman, coach, writer and journalist, and lawyer.

Part of the passage currently near Chapel had a corrugated iron roof and was known as ‘Tin Tunnel’.

George Malcomson, cox of the Eight, when awarded the privilege of riding a Don’s pony back to College from the river, rode the pony along Covered Passage. He was discovered by the Warden and swiftly punished.

The corrugated iron of ‘Tin Tunnel’ is slowly dismantled and reused. The existing structure begins to be constructed in brick in the early 1890s.

Numerous complaints are printed in The Radleian about the “perfectly abominable” condition of the floor of Covered Passage. The widely spaced boards led to the loss of any coins that fell to the floor, and protruding nails snagged on boots. One submission, in 1897, complained that they had “sacrificed about eight pairs of boots, besides various shillings and sixpences, to that implacable floor.”

Finally, in 1898, the “rat-ridden boards” are replaced with a new wooden block flooring.

Letters from famous Old Radleians are framed and put on display in Covered Passage. The handwriting of some is so poor that typed translations are displayed by the side.

Covered Passage is repanelled.

Museum cases are present in Covered Passage, filled with objects of interest such as fossils and exotics eggs. These had previously been housed elsewhere in the College, and a number of complaints were received at their poor condition and upkeep during the 1910s & 1920s.

During the early years of WWI a School Roll of Honour board was displayed in Covered Passage. In 1916, a submission to The Radleian complained that this board had not been kept up to date, despite the school having ‘every reason to be proud’ of what the College and ORs had done for the war effort so far.

– Suggestions, The Radleian, Dec 1922

That mirrors be provided half-way down Covered Passage to enable those entering Chapel with untidy hair to realise their untidiness.

– Suggestions, The Radleian, Nov 1925

We are now waiting for someone commerciallyminded to turn Covered Passage into a skittles alley.

– The Radleian, Oct 1961

Covered Passage

Improvements to Covered Passage in the 1930s included new notice boards for individual subjects and groups.

Daily records of weather conditions are displayed in Covered Passage.

In 1947, for the centenary celebrations, a new wooden block floor was laid “for the comfort of royal feet”, ahead of a visit by Princess Elizabeth.

Displays of College artwork, described in 1955 as “a brilliant mass of coloured cardboard, poles and art objects” are put up in Covered Passage.

A profile of Covered Passage in The Radleian 1962 describes it as serving Radley as “the market-place did Athens”. The crowds around notice boards provided excellent scrummage practice for rugger.

A notice board of events around Oxford titled ‘What Goes On’ was added to Covered Passage.

During the 1970s, the north end of Covered Passage, the entrance to the Old School, was remodelled. New lighting was added.

‘Airport-lounge’ style monitors were installed at the entrances to Hall and on Covered Passage to improve the efficiency of communication. This does not seem to have met with approval from all quarters, and in 21st century, the era of technology, they have not returned.

Following the serious kitchen fire of 1991, and subsequent inspection, Covered Passage was refurbished in 1993. The proliferation of ‘pipes, ducts, and cables’ was tidied, the panelling was refurbished, notice boards were replaced, and the original window surrounds were restored to view.

In April 1991, Warden Dennis Silk undertook the first hour of silent vigil as a ‘prisoner’ in the Amnesty International cage in Covered Passage. Dons and boys continued to raise awareness this way, in silent contemplation, into the 2000s.

From at least the 2000s, a Societies Fair was held annually in Covered Passage. The Model Aircraft Society regularly flew their planes along part of it, and the Animals Society introduced boys to various live snakes, including the boa constrictor.

Polling stations are set up in Covered Passage for the Radley College General Election. Four 6.1 boys stand as candidates for the main parties of the time (Conservative, Labour, Liberal Democrat, and UKIP). With a 76% turnout amongst boys, the Conservatives win with 47% of the vote. UKIP came second with 31%.

Covered Passage is redecorated, and a timeline mural added to celebrate the College’s 175 years of history.

"That roller-skating races be instituted in Covered Passage."

1932

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Radley Archive event videos

OLD RADLEIAN PORTRAITS

To celebrate Radley’s 175th anniversary, the Shell sets created a series of large portraits of ORs of special note. The paintings were divided up so that each student painted a separate panel which, when put together, created the finished portrait. Enabling the boys to work collaboratively in the first year at Radley helped them build their foundation skills, including communication and teamwork, whilst also providing an opportunity for them

to get to know each other. The ORs that feature in the paintings were chosen by the Art Dons in consultation with the Radley Archivist, Clare Sargent. They represent key Radley figures who have made a deep contribution to society. As part of the project, the Shells were asked to research their particular OR and consider those qualities that had helped them in their achievements.

Tom Stuart-Smith designed eight gold medal winning gardens at Chelsea Flower Show. I think the fact that landscaping is not a subject at school and that he has picked up his talent from his surroundings is quite inspiring, and something to aspire to.

– Arthur, H Social Shell.

9

8 11

Peter Wildeblood stayed true to what he believed in, everyone bullied and shamed him for thinking so. Thanks to his perseverance and courage, which I admire, people today can be themselves without the worry of persecution by the government.

1. Poet Laureate, Sir Andrew Motion (1966, A) 2. British barrister and oarsman, Walter Bradford Woodgate (1850) 3. Lieutenant Colonel Rupert Thorneloe, MBE (1983, E) 4. Actor, Peter Cook (1951, C) 5. British attorney, Clive Stafford Smith OBE (1973, F) 6. Chelsea Flower Show winner, Tom Stuart-Smith (1973, G) 7. Olympic rowers, Charlie Elwes (2010, J), Tom George (2008, G), and Ollie WynneGriffith (2007, D/J) 8. Actor, Desmond Llewelyn (1928, E) 9. Cricket captain and Director of Cricket, Sir Andrew Strauss OBE (1990, B) 10. International cricketer, Ted Dexter CBE (1948, F) 11. Equine sculptor and artist, Charlie Langton (1996, G) 12. Writer and gay rights campaigner Peter Wildeblood (1937, A) 13. Actor, Dennis Price (1929, E) 14. Sociologist and campaigner, Professor Tom Shakespeare, CBE (1979, D)

Radley and the Falklands War - 40 Years On

RADLEY AND THE FALKLANDS WAR –40 YEARS ON

A letter from 1982 dated simply ‘Trafalgar Day’ written by Rear Admiral Ian Balfour D.S.C. to Tony Money of the Radleian Society:

‘David’s death was a bitter blow to us but the job had to be done and it was a very remarkable operation. Much water has flowed under the bridge since they both (David & Patrick) joined Radley but at least his 1st VIII blazer is still there as we sent it back to Jock Mullard via Henley this year.'

On Tuesday 3rd May 2022, the Chaplain led a service of commemoration for Old Radleian, Lt Cmdr David Balfour, RN. It was the fortieth anniversary of the sinking of H.M.S. Sheffield, in which twenty crew members, including David, were killed in action. The service was attended by his brother, Patrick Balfour, and formed part of a series of talks organised by current boys to explore the legacy of the Falklands War.

The Falklands War in 1982 was the first conflict to engage all three UK armed services since the end of the Second World War; the loss of the Sheffield was the first naval casualty in those nearly forty years. Its resonance both at the time and its legacy has polarised political opinion, but support for those who fell in the conflict, and

their families, can be summed up in a letter from Sam Salt who wrote an obituary for David Balfour:

‘I enclose a small piece about David which I was delighted to write because I genuinely felt that he was a very fine person. I too knew his brother Patrick – he was with me in HMS Dreadnought for a year; they are a marvellous family. ... May I say on behalf of us all who took part in the Falklands Operation how much we appreciate your kind words. The depth of feeling and degree of national response that we have all experienced has been at times overwhelming.’

Many Radleians were involved in that Falklands Operation. The cross-service nature of the campaign can be seen in this brief list: among the naval officers serving alongside David Balfour was Lt Cdr Robert Guy (1961, D) who survived the destruction of H.M.S. Antelope on 24th May 1982; Captain David Willis (1964, D) commanding a company of Gurkhas; Air Marshal Sir John Curtiss (1939, C/H) who was appointed Air Officer Commanding No. 18 Group in 1980 and served as the Commander of the Air Component during the conflict; and the most senior of all, Field Marshal Sir Edwin Bramall, who oversaw the entire campaign and was appointed Chief of the Defence Staff in October 1982. He had served on Radley College Council since 1979.

Alongside the military personnel were the civilians who came with them such as the war correspondents, Charles Laurence (1964, D) for the Sunday Telegraph and Richard Savill (1969, E)

A Memorial to those killed on active service between 1945-2005 was dedicated by the Radleian Society in 2008. It contains four names, including David Balfour. It was created by the Kindersley Workshop and is located in the Cloisters, opposite the World War 2 commemorative wall.

David Balfour (middle row, second from right) with the 1st VIII in 1962. This crew won the Princess Elizabeth Cup at Henley Regatta, one of only three occasions that the College has done so.

Radley and the Falklands War - 40 Years On

of the Press Association. And then there were those who lived on the islands or had long-term family connections there: Tony Hunt (1978, G) the son of the Governor, Sir Rex Hunt, was in the Sixth Form at Radley – he wrote a vivid eye-witness account of the evacuation and subsequent deportation of the Governor’s family; while Edmund Carlisle (1936, G) was a farmer with close links to family and businesses in Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Edward Shackleton (1925, B), whose father, the Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, was buried on South Georgia, had recently been commissioned by Parliament to write a long-term economic report on the future of the Falkland Islands. He was asked to revisit his report after the war and in 1988 he was awarded the Freedom of Stanley for his services to the Falkland Islands.

The speed at which the conflict escalated is reflected in the House of Commons reports. On Saturday 3rd April 1982, the House of Commons and the House of Lords held emergency sittings. The session was called to debate Britain’s response to the landing of Argentinian forces on East Falkland. Already there was conflict about the war: Lord Carrington, the Foreign Secretary, resigned immediately after the sitting. At home on the Falklands, Old Radleian Edmund Carlisle was in Stanley on 2nd April 1982. He saw at first hand the restrained behaviour of the Argentine Command which did not fire a shot. His account of the war from the point of view of a civilian whose family business had been based in Argentina since 1830 was published in 2006 – 7 as The Dishonourable War: Falkland Islands 1982 He and others travelled to London representing 100,000 AngloArgentinians, one week after the invasion, to persuade the British Government to reach a non-military and diplomatic solution.

Tony Hunt had also witnessed the invasion:

‘At 7.30 on the 1st April 1982 I was at the Smith’s house. I rang home to tell Mum I would not be home for supper only to get a sharp order of recall. I left the Smiths with sinking premonitions of doom, thinking “What have I done now?” Having parked my motorbike outside the house I walked in to find Mum standing by the fire with very red eyes. She turned to me and said: “Tony, your father has just come through from the office and told me that the Argentines are going to invade tomorrow morning!” I could not believe my ears. The main topic of conversation for the two years my parents had been there had become a reality. Stunned, I sat down. Mum poured me a drink and we stared at the fire.

… Everything seemed so peaceful and unreal until about 5.30 a.m. when the first shots were fired. From the Bakers’ house I could see tracers and explosions going off all around. I kept recording messages being phoned in from couples from all round Stanley. Some people said their homes had been wrecked, others could see fighting at the airport, others said the Argentines had come over Sappers Hill –behind Stanley.

… At about 11.30 a.m. my father came around to the Bakers’ house. He looked shattered. He had dark smudges under his eyes and a pale, unshaven face. Collapsing into a chair, he pushed his thumbs into his eyes and asked for a beer. He then told us how he had been shot at by snipers through all the windows, how he had sat in his chair with a pistol ready to shoot the first Argentinian who came through his office door. He said he had been prepared to die to demonstrate the British determination to keep the Islands British. Thank God he didn’t have to use the pistol.’

The full account can be read online at www.radleyarchives.co.uk.

The first task force ships sailed from the UK on 5th April. On 3rd May, H.M.S Sheffield was hit by an Exocet missile which destroyed the control room and the galley below it, killing the officers in the control room, and most of the ship’s cooks. The Daily Mail led its news story with a quote from the girlfriend of one of the cooks –‘Why the Sheffield? Why the Sheffield?’

A portrait of Field Marshal Sir Edwin Bramall.

HMS Antelope, of which I was second in command, was positioned near the entrance of San Carlos Water at dawn on 23rd May 1982; we had only just arrived in ‘bomb alley’ having been on other tasks. The previous holder of our new role, sister ship HMS Ardent, had been sunk two days before with significant loss of life: it was obvious to all of us that we were in for a busy day.

We were hit by two bombs, neither of which went off immediately and one of which killed, on impact, my steward. One of the bombs came to rest very near to me. We gave a good account of ourselves and shot down, I think, two or three Skyhawks, one of which was flying so low that it flew into our main mast; the Argentinians, all cousins of Fangio, flew with great daring. After dark, bomb disposal experts tried to defuse our unexploded bombs but one of them blew up and the subsequent fire spread rapidly. We had no fire main and, after about 90 minutes of struggle, there seemed to be little alternative but to abandon ship. I ordered the 190 men on the flight deck to leave her and was last off. The missile magazine blew up rather dramatically about 5 minutes later. In addition to our Steward and an Army Bomb Disposal Officer who were killed, we had seven wounded.

Most of the 200-man ship’s company had been together in various operations for some months: comradeship proved to

Her questions about the war were, in part, answered in 1985 when James Sharp (1980, C) and Andrew Bentley (1981, G) interviewed Lord Bramall, then Chief of the Defence Staff for The Radleian They asked, what lessons do you think the services learnt from the Falklands conflict? He answered, ‘Funnily enough I don’t think that once the fighting started there were a tremendous amount of new lessons to be learnt. What was comforting to us was that the things which we always considered to be important turned out to be important on the day. The Navy learnt certain technical lessons about war at sea under missile threat. The first thing that must be remembered is that deterrent is all important. If, as we did, you give the opposition reason to think that you do not wish to defend a place you tempt them to take action against you.’

And did he think it was worth the cost in lives and money?

‘We didn’t fight the war for the Falkland Islands, we fought it for the very important principle that people cannot steal what is not theirs. I do not think that we cannot make a settlement because we fought for the Islands and lost lives. The root of the problem lies in who has the most right to them. If I was a magistrate come down from Mars and asked to adjudicate, it would be a very difficult judgement to make. We must try and normalise the relationship with Argentina, encourage trade, for example, and if that is done perhaps the problem will sort itself out. I don’t actually believe that because there was a fight for the Falklands a settlement cannot be drawn up.’

The question about how the relationship between the two countries had collapsed so far, the rights and wrongs of waging war, and the

be important both before and after. None of us had been in action before and the initial shock of the experience was considerable. The noise was terrific: bombs, jets, helicopters, guns, missiles, commentaries (those between decks needed to know what is going on), orders, reports – and then flames, ready-use ammunition cooking off and more loud orders –all contributed. Molten aluminium falling – the need to make decisions and to make oneself understood above the racket. Discipline and training proved to be invaluable. A source of great pride remains the resilience and steadiness of our very young ship’s company. None of us, that I am aware of, were offered counselling, and the need did not occur to us. The Navy was very understanding but firm: after survivors’ leave most of us went back to sea, where we were needed. Memories can distort, however, and I am glad that I got every man to write down, on the day after we were sunk, on two sides of foolscap, what had happened to him.

I have been back to the Falkland Islands twice since 1982. Later in the same year, I was the second in command of a destroyer for a three-month patrol and then, a few years later, I was Senior Naval Officer, Falkland Islands. I agree with the ever-grateful islanders that it was all worth it.

No dictator, after all, should be allowed to get away with just invading his neighbour.

Radley and the Falklands War - 40 Years On

continuing cost of a garrison, particularly so far away from the UK, was the remit of the Franks Report set up by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher immediately after the end of the Falklands War. Another Old Radleian was involved in this, Sir Patrick Nairne (1935, G) who was a Privy Councillor and served as one of the five members of the Falkland Islands Review Committee. The Franks Report was extremely controversial when it was released - ‘No British official publication this century has disclosed so much so soon of that forbidden realm where the security classification is king: the process of foreign and defence policy-making and the working of the intelligence community.’

The war has not ended. There is still no agreement between the UK and Argentina over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands. In 2007, Edmund Carlisle was still urging the British Government to re-open negotiations with Argentina towards the transfer of sovereignty. ‘Only thus will the vast expense of garrisoning these far away islands be brought to an end and our traditional good relations with that country re-established.’

And it never ends for the families of the fallen. David Balfour left a young widow and a three-year old daughter. The fiancée of the Sheffield’s cook had to rebuild her life a few months before her wedding. Commemoration is important. In 2003, Anthony Hudson, formerly Tutor of F Social, was awarded the MBE for services in creating the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel at Pangbourne. The Chapel is the national memorial to all those who fell in that war. It records the names of 258 casualties, most of whom were lost at sea in the sinking of five ships and severe damage to a further eight. The Chapel at Pangbourne also houses the most complete library about the Falklands War collected in Britain.

The Foreign Office, fearing Nepalese objections (Gurkhas are citizens of Nepal), initially opposed the deployment of a British Gurkha battalion to the Falklands. Au contraire, Nepalese officials were reportedly astonished, slighted even, that Gurkhas were not included in the Task Force. What was the problem? So, the 1st Battalion 7th Gurkha Rifles, in which I commanded 100 men of A Company, went to war. Later, on the night of 13/ 14 June in a blizzard of snow, and under sporadic artillery fire, we bore ridiculously heavy loads of weapons and ammunition along the five-kilometre approach to assault Argentine positions on Mount William. Come H-Hour, however, the enemy had fled: such an anticlimax. Pondering what might have been we rested, brewed tea, and from our high rocky perch (my company was on Tumbledown) watched Paras and Marines in the valley below race to Stanley. Fortune let our battalion off lightly: a dozen casualties, one subsequent fatality. Was victory worth the overall loss of life? I believe casualties were inescapable unless we had capitulated to the demands of the criminal Galtieri regime (incidentally, its downfall a beneficial result for Argentina) and abandoned the Islanders, our people, but I am deeply saddened when reflecting on the personal tragedy that befell families of the dead.

Being able to visit a memorial is important to survivors and families. Edmund Carlisle was instrumental in persuading the British Government to arrange for the burial of the Argentinian dead in a military cemetery, for which he offered a site at San Carlos, where relatives could visit undisturbed. The veterans of H.M.S. Sheffield have been raising funds for a memorial to the ship at the National Memorial Arboretum for the 40th anniversary of its sinking. There is already a cross and cairn rising above Sea Lion Island, the closest spot to where the ship went down, which is permanently tended by HM Forces. And at Radley, the memorial to the four ORs who fell serving in HM Forces between 1950 and 2005 stands quietly in the Cloisters.

Clare Sargent Archivist

(Left): Edward Shackleton (1925, B) as part of the B Social Tug-of-War team, 1930; (Right) Major David R d’Anyers Willis (1964, D) as a prefect in 1969.

Journalist Charles Laurence (1964, D) died on 23rd October. A section of his obituary from The Telegraph can be read on page 130

a reflection - by david willis (1964, d)

Captain David Willis in a shelter at Darwin settlement, East Falkland, on or about 5th June 1982.

THE CONVICTION THAT ART IS NECESSARY

William Sewell, co-founder of Radley College and namesake of the Sewell Centre Gallery, held the conviction that art is essential for the development of the civilised individual and nation. As part of the College’s 175th Anniversary celebrations, the Art Department held an exhibition of Old Radleian and Radley staff artwork in the Sewell Centre Gallery. 16 Old Radleians submitted pieces for this fantastic show, alongside members of current and former Radley staff.

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ORs WHO HAD ARTWORK ON DISPLAY:

Hugh Dumas (1956, A)

Lucas Ely (2014, E)

Peter Hawkins (1993, H)

John Antony Heath (1950, E) Guy Henderson (1997, D) James Henderson (1995, D) Nigel Henderson (1964, B) James Huntley (1983, B) Phil Lambert (1993, E)

Jasper Leadbeater (2010, F) Sheppard Li (2014, K)

Hamish Mackie (1987, F)

Kieran Madden (1999, F) James Nairne (1973, F)

Toby King-Thompson (2009, B) Sven Winkler von Stiernhielm (2012, H)

Watching for those late kitchen blues, James Nairne (1973, F)

Thanks also to dons Ruth Tufnell, Tom Ryder, Kate Knox, Maxine Hart, Tereza Horacek and Ian Ellis who exhibited work, Amanda Jewell, Gallery Curator, and to OR Arthur Laidlaw who sent artwork from Germany, but was thwarted by postal delays.

The Tempest: Ariel, Kieran Madden (1999, F)

2nd The Best, Peter Hawkins (1993, H)

Charlie wearing Granny’s Hat, John Antony Heath (1950, E)

Ocean Wanderer, Toby King-Thompson (2009, B) Open Sights, Jasper Leadbeater (2010, F)

q & a with or artist phil lambert (1993, E)

Where abouts do you live now, and what do you do?

I live in Cardiff with my partner and three children. I work parttime for CASCADE, a research group at Cardiff University that is committed to improving the outcomes for parents and children who become involved with Social Services. I am an administrator and I help run Public Involvement, working with incredible parents who have had their children removed and now want to make a difference to the future of others, as well as children in care and the charities that support them. Together we all ensure our research is suitably targeted, meaningful, and communicated in a way that can be understood. I also use my role at the university to encourage staff to engage with the arts. Then, of course, I paint and look for opportunities to work collaboratively on my own arts projects.

Can you describe the piece that you displayed at the exhibition

This piece is a painting of a section of turf in my garden that was left to ‘re-wild’. A quadrat (surveying grid) was placed over the area to add a geometry to the composition and to aid with the observation of such a complex scene. I returned to this turf every month and produced a new painting … until it accidentally got mown! The paintings are painted with the soil from around the turf, which has been processed into a paint with linseed oil and wax.

The work is really about observation and measurement and, in that sense, about awareness. Without actively looking, we don’t really see. Through this work I became familiar with the range of grasses and plant species that were growing in something that I had previously just considered lawn. In this sense, the work relates to the lost art of field sketching in the sciences.

What motivated you to create it?

I was thinking a bit like a sculptor and asking how the materials contribute to the understanding of a painting. Is there more to paint than its colour? I first became interested in soil pigment as a metaphor for how the arts are often under-valued: ugly and dirty, the lowest and least aesthetic material. I was interested in whether painting could elevate this material, like a sort of alchemy.

Through the work I have met communities of pigment artists, farmers, land-rights activists and many different types of scientists, engineers and even soil-eaters! These conversations have led to a

The Conviction That Art Is Necessary

▶ A soil photograph created by Phil Lambert from LLandaff soil solution mixed with silver nitrate and exposed to the sun on paper.

deepening understanding of soil. Globally, we are waking up to the importance of soil. Many of our antibiotics originate from soil bacteria, and our yield focused post-war farming practises are contributing to soil degradation, soil compaction, flooding, loss of biodiversity, antibiotic and microbial resistance, alongside many more related issues.

What do you hope to make a viewer think about, or feel, when they see it?

I hope the painting is interesting to look at and that it can provoke conversations or personal meditations about awareness, ecology, soil health and some of the other themes I have touched on. Although, I’m sceptical about whether my paintings should try and communicate too directly. What happens after the paintings are finished, in terms of the contexts they are shown in and the discussions that surround them, is often a slightly separate sphere and where the paintings can become activated in different ways.

What do you think the role of art is in wider society, and how can it promote change? In general, I think there is a link between lifelong education, the arts and creativity, which ultimately impacts on wellbeing. This is something that is worth championing, and we should ensure everyone has access to. On my Lead Creative Schools work, I think one of the key things I see is pupils and teachers becoming more confident at accepting and being with the uncomfortable feeling of uncertainty. It’s an integral part of creativity and I think this is an important and underappreciated lesson that comes from the arts.

With regard to the environmental themes, I place more of a focus on workshops where I share the techniques I have learnt. Environmental communications are usually directed at people, often in quite a negative way. I hope that through playing with soil, making paints, soil photographs and charcoal, people of all ages can respect and get to know these materials. Then become equal participants in the conversations around how to value them.

Lastly, I am currently working on a project for Cardiff University and White Ribbon Day (November 25th). White Ribbon is the UK’s leading charity engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls. Their aim is to change long established, and harmful attitudes, systems and behaviours around masculinity that perpetuate gender inequality and men’s violence against women. “Disappearing Women” has been created by the illustrator Henny Beaumont. She has videoed herself painting portraits of women murdered by men in the UK. These videos are then reversed, so the women disappear.

https://www.phillambert.co.uk https://hennybeaumont.com/ https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/

Phil Lambert (1993, E) with his submission Turf (May).

HYBRID HUMANS

Like many others, Harry Parker (1996, D) uses prosthetic technology to navigate our world – a world which has a long way to go before being considered truly accessible for all. In his recent book, he explores the history and the future of technological augmentation, and its relevance to us all.

If you’ve ever ducked your head while driving a car through a low tunnel, or looked for a pair of glasses that you are already wearing, you have had a taste of what it is to be a hybrid human: you’ve introduced a piece of technology into your life and allowed it to become a part of your body map. It has become a part of you.

Technological augmentations to our bodies and our lifestyles are becoming a part of daily life for many of us. This should not be surprising: our very survival as a species is largely due to our adaptability and exceptional ability to use tools. For many of us, mobile phones, contact lenses, and listening devices are a hugely useful, but nonessential part of our lives. A day without them might be frustrating but does not stop us from carrying out most daily tasks. It does not affect the way that society perceives us, or how we feel about ourselves. However, for millions of people across the globe, technology is a crucial facilitator of their lives.

I look around me, and I see that we are all experiencing a deepening and more intimate relationship with technology. We are all, in some

ways, plugged in, and this changes our bodies and brains. (…) so many more of us support our imperfect biology with technology.

Harry Parker considers himself to be a hybrid human: 12% machine, in fact. He uses two hi-tech prosthetic legs; one includes a bionic knee with a microprocessor which adjusts to his gait, adapts to prevent falls, and has a variety of modes for different sports. Hybrid human is a term he has adopted for himself over other options such as ‘cyborg’ or ‘bionic’. It better describes his experiences and how he feels.

‘Cyborg’ and ‘bionic’ carry too much baggage – they conjure too many fictions and unrealistic expectations. ‘Differently abled’ seems a word game. So, I have started to think of myself as a ‘hybrid human’. It is a label just for me, not one I would impose on others. Hybrid bikes and hybrid cars, hybrid working – it is on trend. It isn’t perfect, but a combination of two different elements seems to fit, and I like that ‘human’ is part of it. Human, more than anything, is what I want to feel.

Harry left Radley with a keen interest in art and design which was nurtured by dons like Tom Ryder and flourished amid the toprate facilities available in the College. He went on to complete a Foundation Degree at Falmouth College of Art and later studied History of Art at University College London, before joining the British Army when he was 23 and serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

On the face of it, this seems like a dramatic change of direction, but Harry was no stranger to the Armed Forces. His father, General Sir Nick Parker, has had a distinguished military career with appointments across the British Isles and overseas, and this was partly the reason for choosing a boarding school. Not only is he from a military family, but Harry also reflects that the military is “quite a creative place to work” where problem solving is key.

Harry was severely injured by an IED explosion in Afghanistan and lost both legs as a consequence. The extent and severity of his injuries were such that, anywhere else, he would probably have died. As he puts it in his book, “there was no better place on Earth to sustain my injuries. Within 18 minutes I was delivered to Camp Bastion field hospital, the best trauma hospital in the world with just enough life left to be saved. It was a dramatic and unusual way to become disabled.”

The incredible technology which makes up Harry’s prostheses, along with years of gruelling recovery and practice, mean that he walks just as quickly as anyone else you might pass on the street. He can carry his children on his shoulders, commute to work, and stroll hand-in-hand with his wife. “When I am without them, I feel less alive,” he writes. Being able to descend a flight of stairs while talking to a friend illustrates how far the microprocessor knee has become a part of him – if the computing power of this device did not lower his weight in a controlled, reliable way, he’d need to concentrate fully on his movement to prevent a fall, and the opportunity for conversation would be lost.

Embodiment is the universal compatibility of the ‘hybrid human’, combining technology and the body intuitively to create a whole from something incomplete. The media is full of inspirational stories: Paralympians beating their able-bodied competition on blade prosthetics; AI assisted hearing devices that can focus on particular conversations; paralysed patients harnessing the power

of thought via brain implants to move robotic arms or even exoskeletons. Are we headed towards a future where technology could make people like Harry more capable than an able-bodied person?

The truth is that many enabling technologies that we are shown in the headlines are still very nascent, and those that have been developed commercially have a physical as well as a monetary price tag. The emotional, physical, and biological interfaces between humans and machines are still imperfect. It’s easy to believe that technology has ‘fixed’ Harry, but the cost and the effort are hidden. It can take years to master the use of prosthetics, and that is for those to whom they are suited, which is to say, not everyone. There are risks and pain: osteopenia, arthritis, chronic sores and blisters, to name just a few.

With my sockets there always seem to be a compromise; to achieve a tight enough fit, I had to accept that there would be pain and the chance of some damage (…) every now and again, once a month say, there is a day when it feels like I am in a cruelly devised torture machine.

Fundamentally, for many disabled people in the 21st century, something as apparently insignificant as a small flight of stairs, or a badly labelled hyperlink, is still a barrier to accessing everyday experiences and information.

The interface of humankind and machine is an ongoing challenge. In writing his book, Hybrid Humans, Harry explores life-changing options such as osseointegration, where a direct structural and functional connection is achieved between living bone and a mechanical implant, a technique first popularised in dental surgery, but now used by some amputees. This overcomes the biggest challenges of socket prostheses, and makes it possible for some amputees to walk when they would not have been able to otherwise. There have been thousands of successful cases, but risks, such as infection of the bone or the hole in the skin (which is permanently open), as well as prohibitive costs, make it off limits for many.

Hybrid Humans charts the early history humans enabling themselves and each other. From the dawn of civilisation, there is evidence of individuals surviving traumatic injury and being cared for by their community. This is evidenced by the identifiable marks of amputation and bone regrowth in their skeletal remains. Examples of prostheses, functional and aesthetic, have been found from ancient Egypt, China and from the Roman Empire.

As well as reviewing this history in his book, Harry also ventures into the fringe world of transhumanism, a branch of the futurist philosophy which advocates the use of emerging technologies to overcome human limitations or enhance natural human senses and abilities.

The term cyborg dates back to 1960 when it was coined by Manfred E. Clynes and Nathan S. Kline in reference to the idea of a human being who, through assimilation of technology, could survive in space, using their enhanced physiology to overcome the effects of vacuum and extremes of temperature and radiation. Since the 1960s, the contexts in which the term cyborg is used has evolved,

Harry in Basra, Iraq, 2007.

but the level of public interest in it has only increased. The concept ‘cyborg’ is popular in fiction, film, and art. It has become “a modern myth, filled with the fear, hope, and the monstrous”, bridging new and ancient worries about mortality, the advance of technology, and depersonalisation.

In 2004, the UK Passport Office rejected a renewal request by color blind artist Neil Harbisson, a man who has an antenna implanted into his skull. Harbisson’s antenna allows him to hear and feel colours, including those beyond the visible spectrum, via audible vibrations in a similar way to bone conductive headphones. With internet connectivity, it is also possible for Harbisson to receive phone calls, music, and signals from satellites via the implant. His antenna sprouts from the occipital bone and extends forward to a sensor level with his forehead. The Passport Office initially rejected Harbisson’s photograph on grounds that wearing electronic headgear do not meet the standard photograph requirements. With testimony from his doctor, college, and friends, he was able to convince the authorities that his antenna should be treated as an organ not a device. In this way, he became regarded by many as the first official cyborg.

Harbisson is not alone. There are others who identify as cyborgs: artists, scientists, and engineers who are working to augment their ability to sense the world around them, and communicate with others. Many in the community believe they are taking the first steps towards a future where mankind and machine are fully integrated – a future where we are limitless and immortal. While the cyborg community is still small, the number of ‘biohackers’, people who use experimental technology and science to ‘hack’ their bodies, is larger. The best-known example of this is the ubiquitous ‘chip implant’: a microchip inserted under the skin, most often between the thumb and forefinger, which can be programmed for contactless payments, storing data, or opening doors.

The convenience of paying in a shop with a swipe of your hand might be exciting for some, and it is difficult not to be transfixed by the extraordinary possibilities that transhumanism promises, but for Harry, this is merely an interesting diversion from the main point. The experience of aging, even dying, defines what it is to be human, and to be alive.

We are not yet moving into an era where medical science makes it possible for us to live endless, healthy, mobile lives; there is still a lot of work to do to solve basic problems for ordinary people. Factors such as low levels of nutrition and limited access to preventive healthcare are symptoms of poverty; they also increase the risk of disability. People with impairments, in turn, are more likely to be socially excluded from work and education opportunities, making poverty more likely. In many circumstances, disability and poverty reinforce each other.

The strength of technology such as Harry’s prostheses is that they have the potential to overcome human inability and level the playing field for able and disabled bodies. The risk is that, instead of narrowing this gap, increasingly sophisticated and complex technologies move ever further out of the reach of many people across the world. We already recognise the damaging affect that digital poverty has in a world where, more and more, getting online is the only way to get ahead.

The pace of innovation often means that an expensive piece of equipment can become outdated in only a few years. Additionally, like all other sectors, medical technologies are at the mercy of market forces. Imagine purchasing a crucial prosthesis at an eye-watering cost, and going through the laborious and painful process of having it fitted, only for the manufacturer to go bust a year later, making mechanical servicing and software support difficult, if not impossible.

Harry in the studio at Radley College, 2001. Examples of Harry’s school artwork from his time at Radley

Some disabilities are much better catered for than others. Auditory impairments, for example, may be treated very successfully in a number of ways, whereas visual impairments continue to challenge even the most future-thinking research. The rarer a disease or impairment is, the smaller the market, and consequently less funding and investment is attracted to related research. Creating a society where everyone is equally able to thrive will require us to identify these gaps and take action.

I went from bedridden, to being a wheelchair user, to walking on prosthetics. I travelled along a spectrum of disability from utter dependance to tech assisted independence. My journey from dependence to independence, in a sense being ‘fixed’ to be more normal, was thanks to the resources I had access to. So often, society funds and supports access to technology for some disabilities over others.

For Harry, a hybrid human, there are other problems to solve in the future, too; issues of law and governance which need to be discussed. Successful embodiment of a prosthesis or other piece of medical technology can engender strong emotional connections alongside physical dependency. If a device that you rely on to move, to speak, or to sense the world around you, is broken it is no mere inconvenience. Individuals have been sharing stories about the damage that has been caused to their wheelchairs by airlines during transport, and even the total loss of pieces of equipment tailored to their specific needs. Harry poses the question: what should the law say if a person deliberately damages his prosthetic leg? Can it really be anything other than bodily harm? With people investing more time, money, and emotional energy into the tech which enables their daily lives, legal decisions may be called upon to reflect these increasingly crucial roles.

Advocacy seems to come naturally to Harry, and it shows as much in his work as in his writing. In 2011 he took up a role in the civil service but ended up gravitating back towards the art world. He completed a postgraduate degree in art in 2016, and is now Director of Education at the Royal Drawing School where his passion is widening access. The Royal Drawing School receives applications from a wide range of school leavers and students, but the differing quality of these applications indicates the deep disparity that exists in art education across the country.

The prioritisation of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM subjects), combined with a general lack of funding, has meant that students are less likely to be encouraged to apply to art courses, or be supported through the application process. It has also resulted in a reduction of investment into

facilities, and resources in many state schools.

School’s

to all students

Royal

and his colleagues is to identify the applicants who have talent and potential but have not had the benefit of good art education and support to produce an exciting and dynamic application.

With a full-time job and a young family, it is impressive that he is able to find time to do anything creative. While he admits that painting and drawing have taken a backseat while he has been writing, art is still a source of joy and inspiration. The future interface of art and technology is not something Harry is scared to speculate on.

Is a drawing by a robot arm art? Probably not. But there is reason to think that art will continue to be front and centre in the future of our society. Humans have communicated visually, as far as we can tell, for almost as long as we have spoken to one another. Visual and artistic communication is exceptionally good at condensing information and messages down, and is better able to transcend political, cultural and language barriers. Arresting visuals to describe complicated data are now a normal part of news broadcasting, and these, along with bold non-verbal signage, played a crucial role in combatting the spread of COVID. When faced with conceptualising the complex structure of DNA, Francis Crick drew an illustration of the famous double helix. Leonardo da Vinci used parchment and ink to explore the intricacies of war and flying machines. Conversely, art is able to explore personal internal states and emotions when language is too rigid or brittle to do so.

His exploration into the history of prostheses and the future of human augmentation might seem a world apart from the lived experience of many of us, but the truth is that there is a lot to relate to in Hybrid Humans. Harry thinks that we could be better at adopting technologies, especially where stigmas still exist around, for example, mobility. As an aging population, the majority of us will need to embrace innovation to keep us out in the world, experiencing, taking part, and staying connected. “I wanted to write a book that was relevant to everyone,” he says, and he has. Most of us already are hybrid humans.

teaching,

The

Drawing

postgraduate-level course gives a full scholarship

to increase accessibility; the challenge for Harry

ARK, 2018, by Harry Parker.

BIG THINKING

As part of the 175th anniversary celebrations, 2021-22 saw the establishment of a new series of talks aimed at encouraging their audiences to ‘think big’ about issues in our modern world and the future of our societies. Using the incredible resource that is the Radley community, speakers were invited to talk on a range of future-focused topics: the future of education, cities, working, and humanity.

the future of cities

Oliver Bayliss (1993, G)

Katherine Garrett-Cox CBE, Radley Parent

Katherine Garrett-Cox is the CEO of Gulf International Bank, and a champion for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) within the finance sector. Katherine believes that organisations can work towards building a better future for global society while remaining profitable and competitive. She is passionate about investing in companies that offer exceptional returns, but are also ready to face the challenges of the modern world. In other words, to do well and do good.

Katherine’s personal enthusiasm for tackling issues such as global warming, falling biodiversity, and food security are clear, but for those who need convincing, there is plenty of data: “There is a clear alignment between financial performance and purpose. Evidence shows us that in the long run a high ESG rating translates to higher returns even when compared to non-ESG related funds.” Embedding sustainability into the core of business practices enables a more comprehensive review of the risks and opportunities, which leads to better investment decisions.

What should work look like for companies and employees of the future? To avoid staff becoming demotivated and unproductive, it is in the interest of the employer to embody a sense of purpose, with a clear, ambitious goal to build a better world in the future.

“Around 50% of our lives will be spent working. That’s a lot of time.”

Companies can only survive by broadcasting the value that they add to society and their reasons for existing at all. “The prioritisation of purpose over pay is growing” she explains, “88% of millennials want to work for a company whose values reflect their own”. Concluding, Katherine listed what she considers to be key skills for any job-seeker in our rapidly modernising world: a drive to include and inspire people, intellectual curiosity, digital awareness, being adaptable to change, working collaboratively, “and, most importantly, resilience in times of uncertainty.”

The past few years have seen the biggest change in urban development in decades due to two factors: COVID and climate change. Both have acted as disruptive accelerators, changing the way that our cities are designed, built, and redeveloped. They have forced society to rethink what our cities are for, and why we need them.

For Oliver, Director of architect firm Buckley Gray Yeoman, cities of the future will not be the metropolises we see in sci-fi films. Instead, cities of the future will be simpler, community-orientated, and self-sustaining. In fact, cities of the future might look more like cities of the past.

“Cities have always adapted. They are as relevant now as they have ever been.”

Overnight, COVID made the utopian idea of a less crowded, greener, more equitable city a reality. Quiet streets were taken over by vibrant outdoor dining areas, cycling was prioritised. Some speculated that this might be a glimpse of how cities could be in the future, with the right planning and ambition. Yet, as society and the economy have emerged from restrictions, some of these changes have been rolled back. Moreover, the high street continues to suffer from the advent of online shopping, exacerbated by home working, and some are speculating that cities are becoming redundant.

Crises have always had an impact on how we build urban environments; cholera, tuberculosis, even the Great Fire of London, have had dramatic impacts on city planning. Climate change presents new challenges: how to keep cool, reducing the risk of flooding and drought, how to improve the quality of our air, and reduce our carbon footprint. ‘Green’ buildings are all very well, but Oliver believes that the primary focus should be on repurposing and retaining existing buildings and materials. Plenty of this is already happening, but efforts and incentives need to increase dramatically to meet our climate commitments.

What will it be like to live in a city of the future? Alongside increased use of renewables such as solar, and technological

companies of the future for the workforce of the future

Director, Buckley Gray Yeoman

CEO Gulf International Bank

advances such as ‘smart’ buildings, there might be other surprising changes. Oliver expects large buildings like flats and businesses to increase the utilities they offer: gyms, crèches, showers, social spaces, laundry facilities, even corner shops. This return to the convenience of a local way of life, where daily necessities are within easy reach on foot or by cycling, is dubbed the ‘15-minute city’. It promises to promote accessibility, particularly for the elderly, disabled and families with young children, and foster a sense of community to combat the increasing levels of isolation and loneliness we observe in modern society.

rethinking the future

Jamie Arbib (1985, G)

The history of our society is the story of disruptive technology. For Jamie Arbib, Founder of think tank RethinkX, we are on the cusp of monumental changes across all sectors of the global economy. The critical question, he says, is whether we will use this opportunity to build a better future.

“For the first time in 10,000 years we have the ability to create a prosperous, equitable and resilient society at global scale.”

The convergence of new technologies like AI, global connectivity, robotics, and nanotechnology is reshaping our lives. Foundational sectors such as food, energy, materials, transport and information are being dramatically affected. Take transport as an example; by 2030, Jamie expects that no more new petrol-powered vehicles will be manufactured. This will not be a result of government bans or initiatives, but rather the power of the economy.

Demand for electric vehicles is increasing, leading to increased economies of scale, and lower manufacturing costs (battery costs have dropped by 90% over the last decade). Investment has followed and, finally, changes to governance. This is disruption in action. Within 10 to 15 years the landscape has changed entirely and, before long, the ‘old’ technology, in this case vehicles which run on fossil fuels, will be entirely pushed out. This is only the first phase of disruption. Following closely behind the advent of electric vehicles is transport as a service (TaaS). Electric cars have fewer moving parts, a reduced risk of degradation, potentially running for up to a million miles. The cost to repair and power them is far lower, and this makes them extremely cost effective for companies who lease or hire them to customers. According to Jamie, this could mean that the cost of transportation will drop by an order of magnitude, perhaps so low, in fact, that transport in cities could become free, and new business models will evolve, monetising the customer in other ways, for example, via advertising.

This is just one example of how a key industry is being transformed. Jamie argues that radical disruption is also around the corner in sectors such as energy, food and information. Traditional stakeholders

in industries like fossil fuels and manufacturing have reason to be worried. The accelerating feedback loops which will drive change are likely to mean catastrophic collapse for many of them, just as the advent of the motor car in the early 20th century led to the demise of the horse and carriage. For society, though, new possibilities emerge. Jamie believes that, if we make the right choices at this crucial moment, we could end poverty, hunger and even conflict.

teaching now … and then …

Simon Barlass, Radley Don Simon Barlass, Head of Teaching and Learning at Radley, believes that it is unhelpful to prescribe a methodology for teaching. Instead, he says that value should be placed on the distinctive qualities of individual teachers, and that they should be given autonomy to balance moments of silliness alongside their academic instruction. There is no right way to teach, he says, and both the ‘sage on the stage’ and the ‘guide from the side’ approaches can be fruitful.

“Education has a responsibility to put our desires into perspective, to teach a child to be in the world, without thinking they are the centre of it.”

Simon notes the modern trend towards ‘learnification’, where teachers are merely ‘process managers’, offering an educational menu to increasingly powerful pupil consumers. This move away from ‘instruction’ and towards ‘learning’ in the language and ethos of the education sector is identifiable in child-centric and childled approaches common in many schools. However, the role of the teacher is not only to facilitate this learning, but to challenge, redirect, and correct the child’s thoughts. The teacher represents another mind, providing resistance to the child’s own thinking, an important part of creating a resilient and open mindset.

All talks are available to watch online.

Visit: https://bit.ly/ RadSocBisVid or use the QR code.

Looking into the future of teaching, Simon hopes to see the increased collaboration, and sharing of best practice, across the sector continue. Cutting edge research in psychology and neuroscience is already being used to capitalise on learning in the classroom. New technologies make for dynamic lessons that use audiovisual resources to inspire young minds. He recommends observing colleagues as the best way for teachers to explore different approaches to teaching. Variety and agility, rather than uniformity, is how teaching can continue to be improved for future generations.

Founder, RethinkX

Radley Don

POWERING THE FUTURE

Energy Production

Renewable energy is power from natural sources that are renewed over a short timescale. Globally, the share of renewables in electricity generation is around 28%. The most well-known examples are solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal, with emerging technologies harnessing marine and infrared energy. Hydropower is by far the largest contributor, producing one sixth of the world’s electricity in 2020.

We have seen a significant increase in renewable energy production over the last decade, but there continue to be key challenges. The up-front cost of installation is high per kilowatt, particularly for large projects such as dams; even cheaper sources such as solar and wind still have a higher installation cost than gas- or coal-fired plants. Renewable energy sources depend on weather, climate, and geographical location: they are, by nature, intermittent. Installations often require large amounts of space, and where an area is suitable, local objection is common on the grounds of damage to local ecosystems, land value, or scenery.

Power Storage & Infrastructure

A successful power grid must be efficient, sustainable, and keep costs down. The requirements for power across an energy grid fluctuate over time. ‘The Great British Kettle Surge’ is a famous example of this, where TV ad breaks dictate the timing of surges in the power grid.

With traditional fossil fuel power

generation, changes in demand are matched in real-time by burning more or less fuel. Many renewables, on the other hand, are uncontrolled – variable with the levels or sun, wind, or waterflow. This intermittency is a key challenge in the use of renewable energy for three reasons: energy demand can not be matched by human intervention, existing power distribution lines were not built to handle energy produced during extreme climatic conditions, and current power storage technology is still in nascent stages of development. On a windy day, a stationary turbine indicates that potential energy is not required, and cannot be transferred or stored for when demand is high. Solving these issues is a critical step in transitioning to a green energy grid.

Finance and Governance

The danger that climate change poses to life around the world is now widely accepted, and actions to combat it are being introduced at regional, national and international levels. This requires finance and governance buy-in from governments, international bodies, and the private sector, as well as support from individuals at all levels. There has been progress, such as the Paris Climate Agreement and COP26, but there is still much to be done.

Those working in the industry highlight a lack of incentives and subsidies, and outof-date regulation, which hinder adoption of new technologies. In some regions there are also a lack of trained specialists

in the workforce. Crucially, the fossil-fuel industry retains influence globally and can exert power through the economy and political lobbying. To maintain momentum, governments around the world will need to encourage transition to renewables by making sure that education, training, funding and policies keep pace with demand.

Consumers & Communities

One major challenge in the field of renewables is increasing public knowledge and awareness, so that reluctance to use them is overcome. This becomes easier as the technology improves, and the ‘green conversation’ becomes normalised. The fossil fuel industry employs over 12 million people worldwide, with around 80% of those in fossil fuel extraction, a figure which is predicted to fall dramatically by 2050. However, as many as 22 million jobs could exist in the renewables sector by the same date.

The future of renewables is not only about the large-scale production and adoption of green energy. Overhauling the traditional system will also be an opportunity to introduce small-scale change. Rural communities who have previously been unable to access power grids could benefit from local solar, wind, and hydropower projects; households generating power from private systems, such as rooftop solar panels, will be able to reduce their reliance on fluctuating markets, and even sell energy back to the grid.

According to the United Nations, since the 1800s human activity has been the main driver of climate change, primarily through burning fossil fuels. To reduce the destructive impacts on people and the natural world we must decarbonise our global economy. A number of ORs are working in the renewables sector, at the forefront of the green energy revolution.

Henry Reily-Collins (1997, E) CEO of The Fish Friendly Hydropower Company Ltd and Owner of Hydropower Maintenance Ltd

When I started my business there were around 65 companies in the UK Hydropower industry. Now there are less than ten key players left - the government goalposts are continuously moving.

Hydropower is the most sustainable form of energy known to man, yet it can take four years on average to progress even a micro project through planning and EA licensing. We have managed to hold firm ground in the industry because we prioritise innovation at our core which has enabled us to readily adapt and pivot as necessary.

For example, we are currently involved with the development of one of the largest low-head hydroelectric developments in Europe; we’re converting the whole of the Victorian Manchester Ship Canal into a hydropower generation system with turbines that we have designed to sit into the spare, redundant canal locks between Manchester & Liverpool. It’s a huge engineering project of around £100m including all the tributary hydro projects.

Conversely, at the other innovative end of the scale, the PicoStream, our small, floating, portable, fish-friendly turbine, is under prototype testing. The product is aimed initially at the 11,000 mill owners in the UK, water treatment works, and other organisations such as the National Trust and Canals Rivers Trust. Following this will be developing nations, and we are exploring exciting options such as 3D printing manufacturing techniques to enable rapid global distribution. We’re currently fundraising for this technology as “The Fish Friendly Hydropower Company”, look us up on LinkedIn.

Hydropower has been around for thousands of years, and it’s here to stay. It’s crucial to apply modern expertise and knowledge to existing systems and keep them state-of-the-art. With hydropower running day and night, unlike other renewables, we can use this 24-hour energy to feed networks of hydrogen producing plants (which need both water and electricity) and likewise boost the network of EV charging points around the country. Efficient, distributed, micro generation using peer-topeer cryptographic energy distribution will be the solution of the futureand we’re working on it.

Powering the Future

emissions by 2050, about half of

below 1.5°C. Fossil fuel production

between 2020 and 2030.”

Seb Speight (1981, A)

Managing Director at AFP (previously MD at Ingenious Infrastructure)

AFP invests in business and projects that actively contribute to the transition to a low-carbon economy. As well as investing in large scale renewable energy generation projects, we are focusing on flexible energy storage, circular waste treatment, biogas and biofuels.

The current challenge that we face is creating the right environment to enable businesses to operate and investment to flow. This includes:

• creating educational pathways to ensure a well-skilled workforce

• stability of policy (including regulation and tax)

• consistent signals about the long-term direction of travel and targets

• ensuring (to the extent possible) frictionless international trade so that supply chains can be relied on.

“A growing coalition of countries is committing to net zero

emissions cuts must be in place by 2030 to keep warming

must decline by roughly 6 per cent per year

– United Nations

Powering the Future

Charlie Vey (2002, H)

Head of International Business Development at Lightsource bp

I work for a digital energy technology venture wholly owned by global solar developer Lightsource bp (which is a 50:50 joint venture with the oil major, bp). We are currently in the process of re-branding our venture as we spin out of Lightsource bp and scale a business which enables landlords and vehicle drivers to access energy and e-mobility which are both low cost and low-carbon. Our core product consists of energy management technology & finance solutions for businesses and consumers looking to adopt electric vehicles, electric vehicle chargers, and solar and battery systems.

Energy management technology – technology designed to monitor, control and optimise assets such as solar, batteries and electric vehicle chargers according to price signals, grid constraints, carbon intensity, etc. – will play a key role in the journey to net zero. This is because, as we increase penetration of renewables on the energy system, grid networks will need to contend with more ‘peaky’, intermittent, and seasonal energy generation. And as we electrify heat and transport – driven by the phasing out of internal combustion engine vehicles and gas boilers over the next decade –we will also need to contend with larger, more pronounced peaks in electricity demand. As these mega-trends converge, smart energy management will be required to support electricity grids built throughout the last century, which were never originally designed for bi-directional power flows, distributed sources of generation, or high-power consumption at the ‘grid edge’ emerging today.

Our ambition is to build a platform which enables customers to easily adopt low-carbon technologies such as electric vehicles, solar and batteries. It’s designed to meet the surge in demand in electric vehicles and renewable technologies, and ensure they’re optimised to help consumers reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint. As we grow the number of customers adopting these technologies through our platform, we will, in parallel, be building a huge network of flexible energy assets in markets around the world which can be controlled and orchestrated using our technology to absorb low-cost, renewable generation, and shift demand whenever cheaper, greener power is less available – all while balancing the grid and helping keep the lights on. Today’s energy crisis has only accelerated the need to enhance energy security and build generation capacity which can deliver stable, low-carbon and low-cost energy to the economy; being smart with how we generate, store and consume electricity will play a key role in the decarbonised grid of the future.

James Basden (1980, F)

Founder Director of Zenobe

We started Zenobe in 2017 based around two key themes. The first is to accelerate the uptake of renewable power by overcoming the challenges of intermittency and non-synchronous generation. The second is to improve air quality in towns and cities by enabling diesel fleet operators to go electric for no more cost than running their existing fleet. It is about making clean power accessible now.

Five years on and Zenobe is a world leader in the use of battery storage. We are the first in the world to win contracts to provide use of our grid scale batteries to address voltage, short circuit and inertia challenges. By 2026 we intend to operate over 1.6GW of storage in the UK with our batteries in Scotland alone saving c. 14 million tonnes of carbon over 15 years – the equivalent of permanently removing the emissions from all the cars in Glasgow and Edinburgh. We are now taking our expertise to Australia and the US. Our EV fleet business provides a complete end to end service for bus operators – everything from overcoming charging challenges to owning the vehicles to providing our proprietary software to optimise performance. We are the leader in our field and the largest owner and operator of EV buses in the UK, Australia and New Zealand with plans for the US.

Making a significant difference means gaining scale in what is a capital-intensive business. We have raised over £500m into Zenobe so far and are raising a further £2bn to support our growth plans to 2025. Zenobe is accelerating the building of clean infrastructure, enabling the UK and elsewhere to have secure and more affordable power and transport. If you are interested in joining our journey, please get in touch as we need talented people who are motivated by making a change for the better.

In March 2016, Lightsource successfully completed and connected Europe’s largest floating solar farm, installing 6.3MW on the Queen Elizabeth II Reservoir, near London.

(Above left): Zenobe’s Capenhurst project, near Liverpool, will be the first battery in the world to absorb reactive power direct from a transmission network. Over 15 years, this project will save over 1 million tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.

(Above right): Zenobe owns and manages an extensive fleet of EV vehicles.

Rupert Harrow (1980, A) and Julian Pertwee (1977, F)

Founders and Directors of Footprint Zero

The objective of our business is to help organisations to reduce their carbon footprint by harnessing the power of the sun. We utilise property and resources predominantly already in-situ, for instance, we have recently installed solar on the roof of the Imperial War Museum. Solar installations are a viable option for organisations on a small as well as a large scale – it is not only those that have the space for substantial solar farms. However, dated lease laws need to be amended to facilitate the installation of solar on many buildings, so that tenant companies are not affected by changes to, for instance, their insurance.

The UK has 250,000 hectares of south facing commercial roof space. If covered in solar PV this would provide more than the country’s entire power needs, yet today only 5% has solar installed. Footprint Zero’s objective is to address this deficit and to install solar on our commercial buildings, monetise an asset landlords and tenants already have, while delivering Government net zero targets and producing cheaper renewable energy for use UK wide.

Dramatic energy price inflation affects us all, with bills doubling and more in many instances. Compound the unpredictability of our energy supply caused by the war in Ukraine and solar leaps out as a vital part of the country’s energy mix.

This is set to last long into the future, meaning that the industry of today and tomorrow is renewables. Be it hydrogen, wind, solar, tidal, or waste to energy, recycling, or energy storage, the opportunities are vast, diverse, and vital. We are seeing an immense amount of financial and intellectual energy being devoted to the climate-driven challenges we all face, and this will result in interesting careers where fortunes will be made, and companies of the future are now being born.

Powering the Future

William Dryer (2002, A) Co-founder of Buffalo Energy Ltd

There are few countries where renewable energy does not already provide a key source of secure energy supply. Sub-Saharan Africa is the clearest example of this. In Zambia for example, 80% of the population, or 14 million people have no access to electricity. No lighting, refrigeration, mobile phones, banking services, or computers. Industry growth is limited, and consumers become reliant on expensive and environmentally damaging fossil fuelled generators.

I set up Buffalo Energy to address this. We are a project development company, meaning we originate, finance, and de-risk investment opportunities across the spectrum of renewable energy technologies in Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Our core business is focussed on a 200MW wind project in Eastern Zambia, a 50MW solar project in Western Zambia and various commercial and industrial projects such as our most recently commissioned solar and battery storage project for an elephant orphanage and conservation centre in Zambia.

Sovereign debt default and well-publicised corruption can, however, derail even the most resilient of projects, and yet I have learnt these challenges also provide the fuel for innovative and exciting new business models; in February 2023 we will start construction on not only the first ever private energy project in Zambia, but also the first project in Southern Africa which will sell electricity across national borders to public and private customers, within a common market called the Southern African Power Pool. The ability to match our energy supply with financially reliable consumers across a diverse range of markets and customers is an exciting new development for the region, and should provide a template for future renewable projects in Southern Africa

The future is looking increasingly positive for the region and indeed the company. Liberalisation of regional energy markets is accelerating rapidly, and these policy changes, when combined with innovative business models and falling technology costs, are creating the conditions for substantially improved energy access and economic growth.

We are also seeing increasing interest from the market in hydrogen projects, either in a generation or transport capacity. This is an exciting development, particularly as these projects require significant electricity supply - while it’s possible to see a future transition to hydrogen dominated generation, it’s clear to us that there will still be a major role for longer established technologies such as wind, solar and hydroelectric generation sources.

◀ 30kW plus battery storage system on behalf of Game Rangers International (elephant orphanage) (PTF Buffalo 2) Buffalo

Energies 200MW wind project –meteorological mast and solar system

The Future of Art

THE FUTURE OF ART

Johnny Messum (1989, B) discusses his stunning new art venue, Messums Wiltshire, and the future of the art world.

How did your time at Radley sharpen your interest in art and art history?

Radley has a fantastic art department, and some brilliantly passionate teachers. They were different enough to make learning interesting and talented enough to know how to coach and guide. Hands-on making has massively diminished in schools: 70% of kilns in non-fee-paying schools have been shut or taken out, making the places where you can use these facilities rarer than they should be. At Radley, I had access to so many incredible things that I would not have been able to do otherwise. I thoroughly appreciated the liberal but not anarchic approach.

What did you do after leaving Radley, and how did you enter the family business?

I spent some time delving into an artistic career, and then went to Edinburgh University to study History and Art History. After that, I went to Christies before joining my father in support of his business, David Messum Fine Art. He had put all four of us through Radley and this was the recession period of the 90s. I could tell that he could do with some help and also that there was an opportunity for me to make a start in the art world.

What is Messums Wiltshire, and why did you decide to develop it?

Family businesses survive on evolution and I became increasingly preoccupied with two things. First, a question that had riddled me since my time at Radley: what was art really for?

Second, what would our family business look like in 30 years? In the end the

two questions merged into one and, quite rightly, my father said if that was what I made of the future of the art world then I would be better off on my own. Of all the excellent advice he has ever given me, that was by far the best! Messums Wiltshire, in Tisbury near Salisbury, is a pioneering multi-purpose gallery and arts centre celebrating the creative endeavour. At its heart is a recently restored 13th century monastic barn with over one third of an acre of floor space. It is reputed to be the largest thatched barn of its type in England. What’s the history of the barn, and how did you come to choose that space?

The barn was actually a follow-on from an idea I had first had in 2008 for The Magazine, a gunpowder magazine in Hyde Park, built in 1805, and now run by the Serpentine Galleries. Back then I had wanted to introduce what I called ‘layered access’ to art, to broaden the reasons and entry points for engaging with art, and to celebrate the making process. We had plans for a restaurant, vegetables growing in the landscape, and courses in making. Thankfully it was not selected, although it is pleasing to see that we overlay with some of the designs and concepts presented there.

Our building in Tisbury was built by the Abbess of Shaftesbury in 1279. It is now part of the Fonthill estate, and it offered an opportunity to create my vision here in the country. This move away from London is part of the wider de-centralisation of the art world which has seen increased funding and support for galleries such as Tate St. Ives, Baltic Centre, Gateshead, and The New Art Gallery, Walsall, among many others. I had always taken the view ‘build it and they will come’, if offer is good enough. Art, ultimately, is not about corner store convenience. As the saying goes: the journey is as important as the destination.

For me, the process was not finding a building but rather, find the way the building wants to go. Each region, each building

The Future of Art

and community, has its own charisma so you have to come to it the other way round. Rather than pressing into the landscape by dint of will, instead let the building and the landscape come to you and follow the path that presents itself. Our magnificent barn is all about the dramatic moment when you first enter, so programming leads in that direction. For this reason, we enrolled performance into our programming from the outset. In 2019 we opened a second gallery space in what was the old cowsheds, and a restaurant called the Mess which now boasts an incredible leading chef.

What are the strategic goals for Messums Wiltshire?

The creation of Messums Wiltshire was about broadening the ways into art. Many venues are free to enter, and that’s a wonderful thing, but accessibility is about more than just the physical. The idea of ‘ownership’ in regard to the venue troubled me – it lacked any collaborative element.

The most universal point we can all share is in the process of making. Humans have an incredible faculty to understand how things are made, particularly through handling and the act of crafting and creating; the involvement of visitors in activities is an important part of what we do. Messums Wiltshire is open for schools to visit at no charge on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and we have a creative studio for onsite courses that are often fully booked.

The lodestone that all of this circulates around is to own, appreciate, and participate in art as part of an understanding of why things are made, and how. It is applicable across all forms of creativity, each having reference to each other. You can compare making with problem solving in logistics or construction. Ultimately, it is the force of evolution that wills to be different.

We are a part of our planet, and only now dimly recognising our connections and responsibility for the environment. Assuming that we are disposed to do the right thing 51% of the time, we are likely to get there, eventually. The arts are a non-verbal language that we can use to share ideas with each other, far quicker than a lengthy essay. So, our strategic goals are to build a community that feels engaged in the arts, and to support creativity with a view to seeing it encourage and facilitate problem-solving in a wide variety of applications.

What changes do you see in the way that people view and ‘consume’ art?

For the past twenty years we have had zombie formalism (a phrase coined by artist and critic Walter Robinson describing the financialisation of new artworks by speculative collectors known for ‘flipping’ artworks for near-term profit) where the trade was everything. Consumption has, in effect, become the art form. But there is a difference between consumption and transaction. We are more aware now of the material value connected to what we do; to live is inherently a carbon producing act, so we need sound information to help us make better choices. Art has always thrived as a relationship between the audience and the creative opportunity. Objects have the power to connect us to our rich and wonderful past, even zombie formalist ones - albeit with irony.

How do you think the art world can influence the way our society develops?

My view is that art is a language that can be spoken by everyone,

and I would suggest that an artist’s concerns are really no more than an expression of our collective concerns. Top of the conversation right now is the environment: how we reduce our carbon footprint and adapt to a different way of living together. Creativity has a part to play in enabling the conversation around gender, race, and other areas of friction that we see in society. While it isn’t any one person or sector’s role to influence society, I think we do need to find consensus otherwise we are all working from differing positions. Our role in the art world is to facilitate conversations and raise awareness. During lockdown we started holding talks on active environmentalism, hearing from experts, and allowing audiences to reach their own conclusions. Art has a role to play within communities, and it is with communities that we can start to build consensus.

Will art galleries continue to remain relevant as we enter the digital age?

Relevance is key here, because the answer is that unless you correctly read the landscape of what digital can offer, and also what is unique to real life experience, you cannot remain relevant. It’s possible the future could see a swing away from viewing art ‘in the flesh’, but already I know of businesses that regret abandoning their physical spaces. There’s so much to say for experiencing an object with all the senses. This is something that the digital age has yet to master, but perhaps it will.

Would you install an artwork by an autonomous machine or robot at Messums?

I can’t see why not, and I think it is highly likely that the Elgin marbles or other contested objects will be replicated using 3D manufacturing processes in the future, to be more widely shared and enjoyed by audiences. Does the possibility of a digital intelligence creating an artwork that satisfies the senses sound plausible – yes, although I can’t say it sounds hugely appealing. In regard to digital art, there’s a lot to think about these days. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs), for example, are the product of an exciting banking revolution, blockchain, but their relation to digital graphics does not mean that they have anything to do with art. In my opinion, they are simply a pipe cleaning exercise for something more exciting and meaningful to come.

What’s next for you and the business?

We are launching a restaurant at Messums Wiltshire with the goal of getting a Michelin star in the next 18 months. We will also be supporting emerging choreography in contemporary dance, and working with a town council on the east coast to build a unique destination for art in that region. Most of all I hope the business will continue to engage and interest its artists, staff, and visitors.

RISK AND REWARD

Throughout its history, Radley has produced innovative thinkers: James Collingwood Tinling (1915, E), manufacturer of the first working jet engine, and Charles Howard (1921, D), developer of the science of bomb disposal, to name only two. Recently we have seen a marked increase in Old Radleians starting their own businesses and we have highlighted some of these below.

TERRY BLAKE (1967, H)

Owner of Blakevoice Founded 2018

Industry:

Performing Arts

Why did you start your business?

I was asked to become an Event Announcer at Lord's Cricket Ground. I had a career in sports marketing, but in semi-retirement I wanted to use my knowledge of sport and my voice once more, something I had done in the early 80s as a cricket reporter and commentator.

What does your business deliver?

I provide a reliable service and a clear and experienced voice for event announcing and voiceovers.

What are the highs and lows?

As a sole trader, I am my own boss yet I am able to work as a team at sports events. It also allows me the flexibility to work from home to record any voiceovers.

TOBIN CHEW (2002, D)

Founder of Hardwhere

Founded 2021 Industry: Online Retail

Why did you start your business?

Trying to find a plain black belt on the spot for a job interview was remarkably difficult walking around the high street, so I wanted to build a product to make experiences like this easier.

What does your business deliver?

Our image recognition AI identifies products and writes Google Ads and Hardwhere listings with smart search engine optimisation (SEO), which then appear at the top of Google searches for those products. To trial this technology, we built the Hardwhere Marketplace platform to help people find out what items are available in nearby shops. Shop owners take a photo of their shelves, and the products are automatically listed online for local Google searches. The core technology is our image-to-product listing AI, which we are currently trying to refine and use in national charity shop chains. Current e-commerce tools don't work well with large variable catalogues or low inventory items, such as are found in charity shops. I've also recently founded a business in the cryptocurrency industry - watch this space!

What are the highs and lows?

I enjoy coming up with solutions and tools, building them, and trying them out commercially. I dislike the amount of time that it can take during the trial and error phase.

ALEX BRUCE (2011, j)

Co-Founder of LB Vintage Boxes Founded 2020 Industry: Fashion &

Retail

Why did you start your business?

My business partner and I noticed, in the lead up to Christmas, the number of times our friends would send links for Christmas presents to their family. In our eyes this defeated the whole fun of Christmas and birthday gifts: the magical experience of opening something unknown. A lot of men in particular struggle with shopping for good-quality vintage clothing, as they do not have the knowledge, time, or ability to source unique pieces that fit both their size and style. Fast fashion and the throwaway society we live in has a huge environmental impact, and we wanted to play our part in combatting this.

What does your business deliver?

Our business sells high-quality vintage clothing which has been selected on a bespoke basis, whereby each box is sent to a customer based on their size and style. We become the customer's own personal shopper and stylist at the click of a few buttons. The magic of opening something unexpected is retained, but with the confidence of knowing that it is going to suit them and fit them well. If you are interested in buying a box, use the code: RADLEY for 15% off any box purchases!

What are the highs and lows?

I love the freedom being an entrepreneur allows: being able to travel to different countries to meet a host of different people. There is so much satisfaction when a good review or message comes in. It's great to collaborate with other like-minded individuals, bouncing ideas off one another, and throwing yourself into all facets of business life - a learning curve that instils you with resilience. The sleepless nights are terrible though, when you have a few bad days, and it can be difficult when suppliers mess you around. For the most part, I love all that I do, especially when I can see the growth we are aiming for, and when goals are being met ahead of schedule!

Alex Bruce with a stack of his LB Vintage Boxes.

ALEX LEDGER (1997, A)

Managing Director of SkySchool Founded 2004

In 2000 I was fortunate enough to complete a tandem skydive for charity at the tender age of 16, while still at Radley. The feeling of freefalling at 120mph was incredible, and led to me qualifying as a skydiver during my gap year. Upon starting university, it quickly became apparent to both myself and my father that pursuing a degree in History and Media Studies was not going to end well! As I had already written a business plan based around adventure sports, he offered to fund a year of specialist training. Within 6 months I had qualified as a snowboard instructor and developed a variety of other skills. In late 2004 I bumped into an old family friend called Giles Cardozo who had started his own business called Parajet, which specialised in designing and building Paramotors. It turned out that he was looking to reopen the paramotor training school he had set up in Cyprus. Without even knowing what a Paramotor was I agreed to be the man to take this on! The rest, as they say, is history...

What does your business deliver?

SkySchool is Europe's leading paramotor training school. We run beginner, intermediate and advanced paramotor training courses in the UK at Hinton in the Hedges Airfield near Banbury. We also run courses in Europe and run flying trips. In recent years we have started providing a consultancy service to help set up, equip, and staff new schools around the world, as well as run a variety of B2B projects, from TV documentaries and expeditions to displays and events.

What are the highs and lows?

What I love the most is the freedom my business gives me to pursue the sports I am most passionate about, while working with likeminded people and visiting stunning locations around the world. What I dislike is having to work around the ever-changing weather while managing people's expectations.

RICHARD BLACKWELL (2002, F)

Co-Founder of Horizons Founded 2017 Industry: Business & Networking

Why did you start your business?

My co-founder and I increasingly found young investors looking for a peer group to discuss and share early stage investing and opportunities, almost all with impact and disruption in mind. What started as a quarterly gathering grew into a global network with monthly dinners in London and international forums.

What does your business deliver?

Horizons as a community includes some of the most dynamic and engaging millennial family office investors, angel investors, and founders looking to connect, share opportunities, and create a positive impact together.

What are the highs and lows?

The highs are high. The lows are low.

ALEX WRIGHT (2005, E)

Founder of DASH Water Founded 2017 Industry: Food & Beverage

Why did you start your business?

We launched DASH Water five years ago to create a perfectly healthy beverage which tastes delicious but does not contain any sugar, calories, or sweetener. Furthermore, to raise awareness about the issue of food waste, we exclusively infuse wonky fruit and veg which is rejected by the supermarkets.

What does your business deliver?

We create delicious sparkling waters without any calories, sugar, or sweetener. Using wonky ingredients helps raise awareness about the issue of food waste, and we also drive our sustainability agenda as a proud B-Corp (companies who commit to balancing profit with the interests of people and the planet) and as a carbon neutral company. DASH is stocked in 8,000 stores globally including Starbucks, Tesco, Waitrose, Ocado, and Sainsbury’s. We will sell 18 million cans in 2022.

What are the highs and lows?

What I enjoy the most: Supporting our team to deliver a product which tastes excellent and supports two missions in offering an alternative to artificially filled soft drinks and raising awareness about food waste. Timezone variances when speaking with our export markets can be challenging, esp New Zealand!

HYLTON HARVEY (2017, K)

Founder of The Beach Bat Co. Founded 2018 Industry: Luxury Gifts Why did you start your business?

Radley helped instil in me a desire to do something out of the ordinary. Having grown up on the beach in Jersey, always with a set of beach bats, too often I saw families with unsustainable plastic equivalents, destined for the bin at the end of the week. For this reason, I decided to start The Beach Bat Company during the summer between Shell & Remove years.

What does your business deliver?

The Beach Bat Company sells sustainably-sourced, handcrafted, personalised, luxury beach bats, the perfect gift for a wedding, birthday or as a thank you for a holiday abroad. Whether the gifting be personal or corporate, our beach bats, always make the perfect gift!

What are the highs and lows?

I love the wide range of personal interactions that I have to engage in! I dislike the scam and spam emails which litter my inbox.

forgetDon’t wehave an groupentreprenuers onRadley Connect, so you can talk to others in the network.

Charities

RADLEIAN SOCIETY CHARITY ALLIANCE

There are a huge number of Old Radleians doing important work for charities on local, national, and international scales. From silent auctions and fun runs to founding charitable organisations, we are proud to see that so many Old Radleians are both ingenuous and humble, and also have a strong sense of duty.

We want to put a spotlight on some of this work, so we have started a new initiative called the Radleian Society Charity Alliance, where each year we will select, support and promote an OR charity for a year. We will highlight the good work of that particular charity to the Radley Community and, through an increased awareness of the importance of their work, contribute to delivering its mission.

It is intended that the relationship between Radley and the OR charity will be mutually beneficial in a number of ways:

Through promotion in the Old Radleian, newsletters, and social media we will share their story, what they want to achieve and why.

We will organise talks from the Charity at the College, to increase understanding of global charity work and give boys the opportunity to be inspired by the ORs involved and contribute directly to the achievement of the charity’s mission.

We hope to also create opportunities for current boys and ORs to volunteer or engage in skill-sharing experiences with the charity.

We believe that creating these annual alliances will showcase some of the best work that our community is doing in the charities sector. While we will highlight our chosen charity, we will also continue to promote other fundraising efforts by Old Radleians more broadly.

If you are doing something amazing for a charity you care about, get in touch by emailing radsoc@radley.org.uk!

Our first alliance will be with Cricket Builds Hope, a charity using cricket as a vehicle for social change and women’s empowerment in Rwanda. This charity was co-founded by ORs Alby Shale and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in celebration of their late father, Christopher Shale. Read more at www.cricketbuildshope.org to find out more about their work.

Want to promote your fundraising, or ask the community for help? Radley Connect is a private online platform for ORs, Radley staff, and current & former Radley parents. We encourage you to log on and post a message to the community!

Four young ORs recently raised over £17,000 for two charities by cycling from Marble Arch to the Arc de Triomphe. Read their story on pp. 90-91.

CRICKET BUILDS HOPE

What is Cricket Builds Hope?

Cricket Builds Hope (CBH) uses cricket for positive social change in Rwanda. Its first project was to fund the construction of an international standard stadium in Kigali, the Rwandan capital. Now, it focusses on delivering programmes with local partners that facilitate equality, empowerment and social cohesion. The spirit and values of cricket run through everything they do.

Who is involved?

Cricket Builds Hope reflects the aims of Christopher Shale, a British businessman and cricket enthusiast who regularly volunteered in Rwanda, and was passionate about the country and its people. During his visits, he witnessed the growth in enthusiasm for cricket, despite the lack of facilities. Wanting to assist, he worked towards building the first grass wicket in the country to help popularise the game.

Sadly, Christopher died in 2011 before he had a chance to realise his vision. His family and friends set up the Rwanda Cricket Stadium Foundation, later Cricket Builds Hope, in his memory. This included Christopher’s son Alby (2004, E/K) and stepson Edo (1997, D/L).

Alby Shale became Project Director for the Rwanda Cricket Stadium Foundation in 2015, and oversaw the final fundraising and building phases. The stadium

opened in 2017. Alby remains a Trustee of the organisation, that also has many cricketing celebrities as its patrons: Eoin Morgan, Heather Knight, Michael Vaughan and Jonathan Agnew to name a few.

Why Rwanda and why cricket?

Rwanda has one of the youngest populations in the world, the average age of its 12 million people being only 19. Its developing economy is still recovering from the genocide of 1994, and is based mainly on tea and coffee exports, with a growing tourism industry. As the country continues to strengthen, sport is being prioritised by the Rwandan government as an avenue for development, education, and building peace.

Cricket arrived in Rwanda after the 1994 genocide. Thousands of Rwandans, having grown up playing cricket in exile in nearby countries such as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, came back to Rwanda to rebuild their lives in their home nation, and brought the sport with them.

In 1999 the Rwanda Cricket Association was founded, and in 2003 Rwanda became an Affiliate Member of the International Cricket Council. The first cricket ground in Rwanda was created on the site of the infamous massacre of at least 4,000 people, portrayed in the award-winning film, Shooting Dogs. Before a ball could be bowled, the two-metre-high grass was cut, revealing the remains of victims. Cricket is now one of the fastest-growing sports in Rwanda. There are 24 cricket clubs, around 15,000 regular players, and the game is played in more than a hundred schools.

Cricket is equally popular amongst girls and boys, having never been considered a ‘male’ sport. The lack of pre-1994 history makes cricket the perfect vehicle for reconciliation in Rwanda.

◀ Alby Shale (2004, E/K), Trustee and founding member of Cricket Builds Hope

Projects

GAHANGA

CRICKET STADIUM PROJECT

Over 6 years, Cricket Builds Hope (formally the Rwanda Cricket Stadium Foundation) raised over £1.25 million to fund the building of the new stadium. Gahanga Cricket Stadium has been dubbed the ‘Lord’s of East Africa.’ The not-for-profit ground consists of an ICC international standard wicket with pavilion and bar, as well as community facilities. It has been awarded nominations and prizes for several prestigious architecture and engineering accolades. The three vaults, designed to mimic the trajectory of a bouncing ball, and the hills of Rwanda’s countryside, were constructed out of 66,000 handmade tiles, predominantly using local labour sourced through a Rwandan social protection programme.

The stadium was officially opened in October 2017 by H.E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda. On the opening weekend, the ground hosted a Celebrity T20 match with sides captained by former Ashes-winning England Captain Michael Vaughan and South African batting legend Herschelle Gibbs. England international and CBH patron Sam Billings, and Kenyan cricket legend Steve Tikolo also played in the match.

Following the opening of the stadium, Cricket Builds Hope has developed a focus on delivering sport for change programmes

and working to ensure the stadium is properly maintained and operated. Alby Shale initiated CBH’s first sport for change programmes, including a gender empowerment programme, and a cricket participation programme in rural areas.

The stadium continues to act as a base for CBH activities in Kigali, and is being used to support grassroots cricket, including coaching sessions for local schools. It has also hosted free HIV testing by the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, and cricket open days to attract new players and spectators. It also continues to develop, with a second pitch being built to support further growth of the game and allow Rwanda to host more international cricket tournaments.

YORKSHIRE TEA PROGRAMME

Working in partnership with Yorkshire Tea, CBH coaches cricket to young people and adults around three of their tea estates. Yorkshire Tea have been supporting grassroots cricket in the UK for almost a decade and have been buying tea from Rwanda for even longer, so they are a natural partner for CBH.

The Tea Cup Coaching Programme has introduced cricket to three remote tea estates in Rwanda alongside neighbouring schools. Playing sport together encourages improved physical health, a sense of comradery, and helps to reduce individual stress and community tensions. Bespoke coaching programmes teach children and estate workers the sport, and also train staff to become coaches, ensuring the continuation of the project. A third year of the programme is now underway, and culminates this October in the ‘Yorkshire Tea Cup’, with over 200 children from the tea estates coming to the Gahanga Cricket Stadium for a tournament.

“We learnt how to play as a team and communicate with each other in the best way to achieve a common goal”

Damascene Byukusenge, a student at GS Gisovu

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME

With funding from Comic Relief and the Scottish Government, the focus of this programme is to use cricket to help unlock leadership potential of young women aged 18 – 25 from low income families in the Gahanga area, 20 minutes from the centre of Kigali. The programme covers topics including confidence, goal setting, problem-solving, and teamwork with the workshops being consolidated on the pitch through cricket sessions.

190 young women have benefitted from the programme so far, and 90% of participants feel more confident in their abilities. The programme has encouraged them to raise their aspirations for their own lives, and their communities more widely.

ADOLESCENT SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH PROGRAMME

Access to education on sexual and reproductive health continues to be a challenge in some Rwandan communities, with the prevalence of HIV and teenaged pregnancies an ongoing issue.

CBH is now embarking on its next social programme, giving adolescents in Gahanga the knowledge to make better informed choices that lead to improved sexual and reproductive health. Teaming up with local experts the Health Development Initiative, adolescents will take part in workshops followed by cricket sessions that help reinforce messages, reduce stigma and create an enjoyable and engaging atmosphere for participants. Adolescents who enjoy the game will be able to access pathways to continue playing for local clubs.

Impact

Since its formation in 2014, CBH has reached hundreds of people, including over 900 children in rural tea estates, using cricket to strengthen communities, encourage reconciliation, and increase the happiness and confidence of individuals. For example, 80% of participants in the Women’s Empowerment Programme have increased their proactivity by becoming agents of change in their communities, such as by becoming involved in local politics, and taking a great role in household decision making.

Cricket Builds Hope and Radley College

In April 2022, Old Radleian and co-founder of CBH, Alby Shale, approached Radley to suggest a collaboration. Impressed by the work and impact of CBH, the Radleian Society agreed to initiate the first Old Radleian charity alliance, where we aim to raise the profile of a particular OR charity every year to the broader community.

how you can get involved

Cricket Builds Hope can only succeed thanks to the support and input of its supporters and the wider community. There are many ways that you can contribute to its work, including:

• Sponsoring (or referring a potential corporate partner to sponsor) a social initiative, like the Women’s Empowerment or new Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health programmes

• Signing up to become a Friend of CBH, which will also grant you access to exclusive events and insights

• Joining them for one of their great fundraising events, like the Christmas Carols or Fundraising Dinners. The next dinner will take place at the Surrey Oval on 23rd February 2023 and will be headlined by Eoin Morgan.

• Touring Rwanda and the Gahanga Stadium with your cricket club. Previous clubs have described this as the most memorable tour of their lives.

to teach people how to make kitchen gardens to fight malnutrition.”

Ruth, Kigali

• Fundraising, by doing a sponsored activity like a marathon or event, for example a raffle, at your cricket or other sports club

• Following CBH on its social media platforms (twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn) and sharing the news with your networks.

“We do get more support from one another because we play together in a team. Now if you walk up and down the factory you see people that you play cricket with always something to talk about.”

Odette Ingabire, a member of staff at Gisovu Factory

“I couldn’t speak in front of people, I learned how to look for opportunities and today I have a job with a road construction company. I am now the vice-president of a political group in Gahanga and I started an initiative

EUROPEAN TRANSPLANT & DIALYSIS GAMES 2022

For the first time in its 22-year history, the European Transplant & Dialysis Games took place in the UK this summer. The idea was initiated by OR Patrick Walker (2011, G), and after five years of planning, it was finally time to welcome the athletes to Radley where they, and many of the sports, were hosted.

Oxford witnessed an incredible week of sport in August; more than that though, the message of the life-saving impact of organ donation was demonstrated through the incredible experiences and accomplishments of all the athletes who competed.

The European Transplant & Dialysis Games brings together recipients of organ transplants, as well as people receiving dialysis, from all over Europe for a week of competition across a variety of different sports. The 2022 games were the first to be held in the UK since their inception in 2000, and the biggest in its history, with 600 athletes and supporters taking part from 26 countries.

The sport is integral, but the competitors are united in their experience of making the most of what they see as the ‘gift of life’ they have been given by their organ donor. Appreciation for organ donors and for the chance to come together was seen at every competition, but in particular at the Opening Ceremony held at Oxford’s Sheldonian Theatre on Sunday 21st August. The joy and enthusiasm on show as all the teams filed in one by one was interspersed with a few words about individual athletes by Susie Dent, who hosted the ceremony. The handful of individual stories were just a hint of the experiences of each of the competitors – a Swiss tennis player who had a double lung transplant, an 80-yearold French athlete competing at her fourth international Transplant event, and the three members of the Ukrainian team, all on dialysis in the countries in which they are currently resident: Poland, Romania and the UK, where Maksym, the team manager lives in

“I volunteered as I am so proud that Radley is hosting the ETDG. My role was to collect several athletes who were dialysis patients and take them to the Churchill Hospital for their regular treatment. I was moved by the sheer enthusiasm and pride of all the competitors, and the wonderful camaraderie between the teams.”

Elisabeth Anderson, Development Director

Oxford with his family. Maksym gave an emotional speech and took the athletes’ oath on behalf of his fellow competitors.

Following the ceremony, the athletes boarded Salter’s Steamers boats at Folly Bridge and travelled by river to Radley, where they were met at Radley College Boathouse by volunteer members of College staff who transported them to their accommodation at the College, where the majority stayed for the week. With many of the sports, including swimming, badminton, tennis, athletics, darts, archery, and squash also taking place on site, the campus had a festival atmosphere all week, palpable in the athlete’s vibrant and colourful team kits, worn with an obvious sense of pride and pleasure.

In addition to the sports taking place at the College, there were three incredible evenings of competition at Blenheim Palace: a 5k run, a cycling road race and a time trial, as well as the pétanque competition. This took place over two days in the picturesque courtyard with the Palace as a majestic backdrop. Blenheim was a wonderful setting for these events and

GAMES TIMELINE:

First meeting between Dr Paul Harden, Chair of Transplant Sport (the organisers of the Games) and Alison Goodfellow, Events Manager at Radley College.

Patrick Walker (2011, G) contacts College Bursar, Andrew Ashton, to suggest Radley College as a venue for a UK bid to host the 2020 European Transplant & Dialysis Games.

The Oxford bid for the European Transplant & Dialysis Games is successful, but for summer 2022.

the athletes were inspired by the surroundings. In particular, it was incredible to watch Michael, an 86-year-old Team GB competitor, who not only ran the 5k at Blenheim, but also competed in the squash and athletics, all the time planning his next challenge – the World Transplant Games in Perth in 2023.

Playing a part in a week like this will have a lasting impact on all those involved – volunteers, spectators, organisers as well as competitors and supporters. Perhaps Carlo Fabio Marcello Calcagni, the Italian athlete who won hearts (and five gold medals) in cycling, athletics and the 5k run, put it best. ‘Mai Arrendersi’ he told us all at the Closing Ceremony – never give up. It was wonderful to witness this motto made human.

Visit the Games’ You Tube channel here: https://bit.ly/3d7y9Od Anna

Internal Communications

Les Newell, newly appointed Head of Sports Centre & Commercial Enterprises at Radley College, takes up the planning for the Games.

Transplant Sport test events are held at Radley College, including football, swimming, and racquet sports.

European Transplant & Dialysis Games

Oxford 2022 is declared officially open, welcoming over 600 athletes and supporters from 26 countries –the largest event in its 22-year history.

British Transplant Games Racquet Sports Weekend held at Radley College.

European Transplant & Dialysis Games

Oxford 2022 launch event takes place at Blenheim Palace.

Haynes

Officer

“I hosted a wonderful evening of croquet, with a tremendous showing from Teams Finland, GB, and Kazakhstan. The opening of the beer barrel after an hour of play was greeted warmly but did not deter the German team who stayed firmly put, playing until it was too dark to see a thing.”

Harry Crump, D Social Tutor

1940s

DAVID GIRLING (1948, E)

I'm still enjoying retirement in Cornwall, despite a hip replacement, and a pacemaker! I'm still walking and playing golf. My wife and I are enjoying 61 years of marriage, with 3 children and 9 grandchildren!

ROBIN PHIPPS (1948, E)

It is now 132 years since my father left Radley. I failed to match his prowess scholastically or on the cricket field. I'm now reduced to playing snooker once a week, however am still just about 'batting' on. I visited Mikinos, Greece, our place in Cognac and the Isles of Scilly over past months. I'm running out steam, but looking forward to 17 September (Old Radleian Day). At least the food will be much superior to my day (just after WWII). Well done to the VIII at Henley. Sorry that you could not quite pull off the ultimate prize.

1950s

MICHAEL BAWTREE (1951, G)

I received an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada, in May 2022. I gave the Convocation Address, available to watch online at https://youtu. be/4z9rFAh10rc

HUGH HUDSON (1951, G)

I retired from UNHCR international field service (in the realms of Public Information and Communications) in 1998, after 23 years working in different counties with two UN agencies. This followed an earlier career in international radio journalism during the previous 13 years. Based in Berkhamsted, Herts. for 28 years, we decided to up sticks; sold up and moved to Neckargemuend, Heidelberg, SW Germany 6 years ago for family reasons. Since then I have taken out German citizenship (without losing my British passport). Many thanks to Radley language Dons, SH Paton, R Waye and DTM Birks. Having learned Russian during my National Service (1957-9), I have now picked it up again and find it useful in helping Ukrainian refugees. I have two children and four teenage grandchildren, all bilingual in English and German.

Rod de Courcy-Ireland (1951, H)

After no international travel for over two years, I visited Portugal and the

UK in July 2022. This included a trip to Radley on 18 July with my cousin Melissa Gadsden who now lives near Abingdon. Term was over so there were no boys to be seen, but we were made welcome in the Admissions Office! Melissa is a keen sculler, her husband's family were all rowers and have no less than 6 illuminated oars from Henley (Grand Challenge 1926) and Oxford Bumps, so I had to take her down to the Boathouse! Now I am back in Canada and on the golf course again - I played 110 rounds last year, which didn't improve my scores!

DONALD LEGGET (1956, B)

Since 2015 I have been helping Bobby Thatcher with the coaching of the Senior Rowing Squad at St. Paul's, where massively improved results have been achieved with the 1st VIII. In these 7 seasons St. Paul's have won the Queen Mother Cup at NSR in 2017, 2018 and 2019 and the Princess Elizabeth Cup at Henley in 2015, 2018 and 2021 as well as many other smaller boat victories. I have also continued to help Cambridge at Ely and on the Tideway.

I have survived Prostate Cancer in 2006 and more recently Bowel Cancer in February this year. Although I am slowing down at 80 I still retain my passion for coaching rowing. So you can imagine I was slightly torn this year with Radley racing St. Paul's in the Final of the P.E.. I had coached both schools to win this event, but I had no doubt at all that a young St. Paul's crew would win. Radley have plenty of talent coming through, but so do we at St. Paul's.

RUPERT TURNER (1956, F)

I have just turned 80, and my wife and I recently celebrated this and a belated

golden wedding anniversary, postponed due to the pandemic. We are actually now married for over fifty one years, and celebrated with a party for old friends, including several ORs. I am church warden for our local church, now in my thirteenth year. The bureaucracy of the C of E continues to keep me on my toes.

I was hoping to withdraw from party politics but have recently been made president of our local constituency Conservative Party.

I continue to fish, deer stalk and shoot. The greatest love of both my wife and I is looking after a very beautiful thirty-three thousand acre estate in the Highlands while the resident caretaker/ boatman/ manager is on annual leave, usually three times per year. I first went there in1959 when I shot my first stag.

We are hoping to visit Oman a few times over the next two years where my youngest daughter's husband has been posted by the Army on an accompanied tour.

HUGH HENDERSON (1959,B)

Although I enjoyed rowing at Radley, and was subsequently persuaded to row for my Cambridge college, and then for medical school, it took up a significant amount of my free time which I feel now could have been better spent with other stimulating activities which could have created longerlasting hobbies and interests for the rest of my life. Rowing should be fun, but never all-consuming of our sports time. I think we should have done lots of other things like shooting, fishing, skating, croquet, riding, visiting art museums, etc, which would be given over to one day a week as a non-rowing/ major sport day.

Michael Bawtree giving his Convocation Address.

1960s

ANDREW ROBINSON (1960, H)

Having practised law for many years, I retired in 2014. Whereupon I got so bored, there was no-one to talk to (I am a widower) and nothing to do, so I now practice quietly as a notary public from my home in Truro, which business keeps me into enough mischief to make life interesting.

My children (4d, 1s) are all grown up, and I no longer keep a dog. I am 45+ years now a friend of Bill Wilson, and still in contact with a few contemporaries at SPCR.

I just published a long awaited book of poems, “In Personam”, see New Releases. My next, provisionally titled “Verona, a Handbook” might be more of a memoir, subject to redaction as advised.

Would the chap who sent me a nameillegible Christmas card sans return address, complaining that his emails to “carvoxa”(sic) were bouncing, please contact me legibly by post, or at carvoza@gmail.com.

JOHN GAMMAGE (1962, A)

It just struck me that September 2022 marks the 60th anniversary of my arrival at Radley. It is also poignant that Patrick Lunt RIP died this month last year and that the two of us were both in A Social, Stewart-Morgan's or "Guy's" back then, and our lives would become somewhat entwined during the

following four years. I believe that my Father had requested that I be in this Social based on his Welsh international rugby fame!

MARK HAYTER (1963, G)

Having attempted to retire from active parish ministry at the end of 2021, I find myself called out of “hiding” to take over as Rural Dean of Chalke Deanery, and was commissioned in July. As they say, no peace for the wicked!

WILSON PRICHETT (1964, H)

As, as far as I know, the only native American Indian to have ever attended Radley, I have settled for the last 30 years in East Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains only 30 miles from the Qualla Boundary (a separate nation within the US borders). We are happy in our little estate and I think fondly of my years at Radley. I invite fellow Radleians to come and dance the circle dance with us on the reservation some time.

A Social in 1963. The late Patrick Lunt is seated front row, far left, and John Gammage is seated front row, two from centre right (both 1962, A).

Wilson Prichett designs and constructs wind turbines, such as these in Sweetwater, Tennessee.

SIMON LYSTER (1965, C)

I have been appointed Chair of the Essex Local Nature Partnership.

TOM COLVILLE (1965, F)

Little did I know that in September 1965, when I arrived at Radley, far away in Scarborough, a 35ft wooden motorsailer was nearing completion. Today after a delivery trip north last summer from Dover, she is kept here. Many people say old Wooden boats are unaffordable. They are probably right. But surely it is never too late to put so many practical skills learned while at Radley into practice … and hopefully inspire the grandchildren? Vega of Garth is believed to be one of the last of the gaff rigged 35ft Sole Bay class to be built. She was built in 1965 for a Liverpool barrister. She took part in filming for Darkest Hour off Eastbourne and was shown in the film heading out for the evacuation of Dunkirk. Despite WW2 being before her time, her design was very traditional, and so she looked the part.

JOHN GOLDSMITH (1966, E)

2022 celebrates the 42nd year of business for my company Goldsmith and Young. We started restoring old Aston Martin DB4s 5s and 6s back in 1980 in a small railway arch in Battersea London. Since 1984 we have been based in Mere on the A303 in Wiltshire. We have watched and benefitted from the increase in value of these cars over the years, but the business has had to adapt to meet changing demand from our clients, the majority of whom own the more modern cars which require a completely different approach. An entrepreneurial business which, like many small niche enterprises, has had its ups and downs but we are still here. I am now relatively part time, as age is

catching up, but still working and enjoying managing something that I created all those years ago. Brexit and the pandemic have been the recent real challenges - brexit in particular as 25% of our clients came from the EU and since then we have had no EU based work unit the last month or so. This green DB4 is the first EU-based car we have had in since 2016. I am very happy to show what we do to any interested petrol heads who are passing down the A303!!

TOBY WHALEY (1969, A) Retired on 1st June 1969.

WILLIAM GREIG (1969, C)

I was diagnosed with prostate cancer a few years ago but has had a course of radiotherapy which seems to have helped. I hope all men over 50 years old will have

The Goldsmith and Young workshop with an original left hand drive green DB4 awaiting restoration. - which has now been started.

regular medical checks on their prostate.

I continue with my Ballroom and Latin dancing, and reading and writing poetry.

My name-dropping epitaph To name-drop’s behaviour I hate; a fault which I won’t tolerate but, although it’s so bad, I do it like mad; I have just met Prince William and Kate! ....

At Cambridge with Hugh Laurie; and Sir Andrew Motion at Radley Greig said he was very sorry his poems rhymed so… wrong.

TIM LAKE (1969, H) Still ploughing my furrow as a property lawyer in the West End at Stepien Lake LLP

Vega of Garth rigged overall on Jubilee Day, June 2022.

1970s

CHRISTOPHER SANDFORD (1970, C)

I have a book dealing mainly with the November 1943 'Big Three' Allied Conference, probably called Midnight in Tehran, appearing sometime in the spring or summer of 2023, and another one later in the year with ambitions to be a social history of 1964. Other than that, still in long-term exile here in Seattle, should anyone interested ever visit these parts.

JAMES LAMBERT (1972, E)

I was declared High Sheriff of North Yorkshire in April 2022 for one year, which is a Royal appointment going back over 1000 years. The original ‘Shire Reeves' were appointed to enforce the King’s interests in a county, in particular the collection of revenues and the enforcement of law and order.

NICHOLAS HOLLAND (1973, D)

I have been living and working in the US since 2000. After the events of January 6th, 2021, which were 6 blocks from my flat, my wife and I decided it was time to return to the UK. I retired early and we flew home in August 2021. We are now living happily in Bridgnorth in the family home and I am thoroughly enjoying the amount of time I have to row and scull and participate in Alumni events!

CHARLES HAWKINS (1973, E)

I continue as Chair of my village's Community Group. I am also serving on the board of a local Credit Union, where I am Chair of the Audit Sub-Committee. Both are proving a rewarding.

WADE NEWMARK (1973, F)

A year of change with sadness and joy. Losing my mum at the ripe old age of 92 was more than balanced by the arrival of my first grandchild: Madeline. Despite the challenges of the past 2 years, my care homes survived with a miracle of keeping Covid at bay for 2 years! Lots of contact Chris Martin, Tim Lambert, Mark Payne and Julian Pycraft. The older I get the more precious are these friendships!

CHARLES CROLE (1976, B)

I have been appointed as a Non-Executive Director of the Diverse Income Trust, a leading UK investment trust specialising in investing in smaller UK companies.

ANDREW MCMURTRIE (1976, F)

I have been re-elected to the Common Council of the City of London, become a

Warden of the Salters Livery Company, am a trustee of Thames 21 (caring for the River Thames), and sit as a Presiding Justice in Westminster Magistrates Court.

CERI FIELDING (1977, G)

I graduated with an MSc in Sustainability and Adaptation Planning from the Centre of Alternative Technology this year, an occasion I was delighted to share with my daughters, Felicity, 17, and Lyra 13.

I've discovered my academic potential late in life [much to Geo Dave's relief, and finally making him proud of his wastrel son!] and achieved a Distinction for my research into what's gone wrong with retrofit of old buildings in the UK.

My first paid commission this year was a report for Plaid Cymru Senedd Members, on housing stock and retrofit measures in the S Wales Valleys in the context of the cost-of-living crisis. This region inculdes many of the most deprived communities in Wales and the UK, with the highest fuel poverty, excess winter mortality, and multiple other indicators relating to poor housing standards. Welsh Government is well ahead of the rest of the UK in addressing these problems and improving energy efficiency, whilst decarbonising and

Housing is a policy-sharing area for Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru, so it gives me the greatest possible satisfaction to report that Plaid Cymru are proposing my Policy Recommendations as policy at the autumn party conference. Top of the list is banning production of new plastic foam insulation from 2030, providing a decarbonisation target for the construction sector equivalent to that for Transport of no new petrol/diesel engines.

I'm keen to connect with any ORs active in this arena, particularly creating a joined up strategy to overcome key barriers of skills/ training and decarbonisation through use of low embodied energy materials in retrofit.

SIMON WALKER (1978, G)

My nephew Sebastian left Radley 5 years ago. I have been in Dubai 10 years and recently started my own law firm, SkyeWalker Law. I've also co founded a mental health charity here, MindForce, under patronage of Dubai Health Authority & Dubai Police. My daughter Daisy, 23, graduated Edinburgh and is working in fintech for good in London.

recognising the negative environmental and health impacts of inappropriate materials such as impermeable plastic insulation.

James Lambert, High Sheriff of North Yorkshire

1980s

GEORGE FREEMAN (1980, H)

Returned to the front bench as Minister for Science, Technology & Innovation, responsible for the £32bn UK SciTech portfolio: UKRI, ARIA, InnovateUK, UK Life Science & Space.

RICHARD JOHNSON (1981, C)

We are still in Dorset with four children now in the early work years or university, the last two are Bristol and Caius College, Cambridge. All six of us will soon be embarking on a four-week Zimbabwe

expedition, with Seymour Shaw (2016, F) among others. I worked for several years on elephant and rhino conservation in the 1990s, and on this trip, we will be crossing some remote parks and tracking elephants on foot.

HUGH RILEY (1981, D)

I have built upon a career in residential property. In the 1990's I started in estate agency, eventually reaching Fellow grade with the NAEA, before converting to surveying with the RICS in 2007. A few years ago I was awarded Fellow FRICS grade status with the Royal Institute of

Chartered Surveyors as well. Having spent almost 15 years with SDL Surveying, I was asked to join Countrywide Surveying Services at the end of 2021, part of the Connells Group. I am now the Regional Director for the South West Region servicing mainstream residential lender mortgage and survey work.

JAMES SHAKESPEARE (1984, D)

Our youngest, Edward, left school and hopes to join his sister, Hannah, at York University, studying English. Last autumn I was elected an Associate Fellow of Homerton College, Cambridge, whilst continuing as Vicar of St John's, Hills Road. In the past year I also served as Acting Rural Dean, and Bishop's Spirituality Adviser.

CHARLES SELIGMAN (1985, A)

I was ordained Deacon in the Church of England on July 3rd at Winchester Cathedral. Amongst the congregation were James Wyldbore-Smith (1985, A) and George Humphrey (1983, D). The seed that was sown in College Chapel and nurtured by Rev. Simon Wilkinson has finally borne fruit!

JAMES BILDERBECK (1985, A)

Having been a co-owner of an experiential marketing company specialising in automotive events for 12 years, the lure of running something small, innovative and personable ... without having to work with compliance and procurement departments, was too great. I have been the Managing Director of 'Family Copies', for the past 4 years. See: www.familycopies.com. We specialise in the reproduction of art for

© Daily Mail Image: PA Wire/PA Images

George Freeman MP, Minister for Science, Technology, Innovation & Space, joined (the then) Prince Charles in Didcot to visit Astroscale, the UK SpaceTech company tackling the increasing problem of space debris through specialist in-orbit satellite capture, service & repair.

Kerry Ellis, Ambassador for In2Drama Academy, founded by OR Phil Waller

Richard Johnson and his family will be tracking elephants during a four-week expedition to Zimbabwe.

private clients, historic houses, interior designers and international auction houses.

PHIL WALLER (1986, E)

Following 2 years of COVID, I am finally looking forward to the first full week of the

In2Drama Academy at the Cranleigh Arts Centre. It’s great to have Kerry Ellis as my ambassador, who is coming on Friday 29th July to give a live Audition Masterclass to 11-15 and 16-21 year-old aspiring actors, in between her performances of Anything Goes at the Barbican. Singing, dancing, acting, audition techniques, not forgetting film studies, and theatre tech, are all taught at the Academy. It would be great to find some aspiring actors from the OR community. Come and join us!

www.in2drama.com

MARK ROWAND (1986, G)

I live on a small boutique wine farm in Constantia, Cape Town. Chris Hardy (1984, E) has been a wonderful help in assisting me with marketing our wine in the UK. Chris’s father Dave and Jock Mullard were my rowing coaches back in the day! I recently hosted my dear Radleian friend and ex-Don Andrew Gordon Brown and his family during a holiday they were taking in Botswana and the Northern Cape. His son Kit (2017, A) stayed on which gave ample time for some hiking up Silvermine Nature Reserve.

HAMISH MACKIE (1987, F)

Early 2022 was spent in my Oxfordshire

studio sculpting a sounder of wild boar, two life size wild boar and a series of three hare studies, all of which are now cast, or being cast by the foundry. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show was in May for the first time since Covid, and it was great to be back exhibiting my work and seeing clients. Travel has also been high on my schedule with memorable research trips to both Canada and Costa Rica. As Autumn descends, I can’t wait to get back into my studio and start sculpting! https://hamishmackie.com

NICK HISCOCKS (1988, A)

Enjoying God's amazing creation on the south coast in Bournemouth, still enjoying serving as vicar at Christ Church Westbourne and people still finding real hope and life in Jesus Christ.

Children fast growing up; Lucy (16), Millie (14) and Jonty and Titus (11) and Cecilia being an amazing long suffering wife! Do look us up when in Dorsetwww.christchurchwestbourne.com.

ALEXANDER MILLAR (1989, G) Living in North Wiltshire, and happy that our eldest son Fred is starting Radley this September.

Mark Rowand (1986, G) and Kit GordonBrown (2017, A) in Silvermine Nature Reserve, part of the Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town.

Hamish Mackie in the studio.

1990s

BRETT ERSKINE-NAYLOR (1992, C)

Currently working in Bovington, Dorset as Chief of Staff (COS) Royal Armoured Corps, I have been selected to command the Armoured Fighting Vehicles School Regiment (AFVSR), also in Bovington. So we have dodged a move for the family (still managed 7 in 12 years) and been lucky enough to get a command. A good result! Girls are now 10 and 6, so looking at senior schools. The fees of which makes me wonder if my Father may have had a sideline in armed robbery.

GEORGE MOSS (1993, B)

I have now moved out of London and live on the edge of Guildford, with my wife Davina, and three children. I'm still busy doing deals and growing businesses after almost 15 years working in private equity. When I ever get time, still loving cross-country running in the hills (… or mountains) and a good game of tennis.

NICHOLAS ASHFORD (1998, A)

Nicholas Ashford and Fred Bellhouse (both 1998, A Social) continue to grow Fordhouse, a niche UK focused buyand-build fund. Current investments are Cymphony, a contact centre; Wilson Partners, an accountancy practice; and Zenzero, a Managed Service Provider (aka IT Support).

2000s

TOBY MITCHELL-INNES (2000, F)

I am getting married September 2022, and I completed a half and Iron Man in June 2022. I am now working as a dentist/ implant dentist in Cheltenham.

WILLIAM DYOTT (2000, F)

Our daughter Evelyn (born Nov 2019) was joined by a little sister, Florence, in September 2021. We moved back to Staffordshire in April 2022 where I now work for Arcadis as a geotechnical engineer.

JAMIE BROWN (2003, D)

I'm still living in Newquay and continuing to grow my business selling health and fitness equipment. I enjoy travelling, and recently got married in Las Vegas to my wife Melissa!

ALEX WRIGHT (2005, E)

Since launching 5yrs ago DASH Water has scaled rapidly now exporting to 20 international markets and will sell 18 million cans in 2022.

DASH recently started to manufacture in Australia, their APAC hub, where they sell to Woolworths supermarket and export to New Zealand alongside Singapore.

The brand is the UK category leading “seltzer” product and is listed in 8,000 stores inc Starbucks, Tesco, Sainsbury's, British Airways, Waitrose and Ocado.

SAM HÖRBYE (2006, H)

Ollie Horbye and I (both brothers from H Social) co-founded Olsam 2 years ago, Ol + Sam = Olsam. Our mission is to help independent brands blow up (in a good way) with tools and expertise to succeed on digital marketplaces, globally. Once a part of our platform, brands tap into technology, data and operational expertise custom-built to drive exponential revenue and profit growth. Our marketplace-first approach to digital brand building is unlocking the overlooked potential in the growing $2.7 trillion global marketplace economy. Olsam is a growing global team sitting across 3 continents, 15 nationalities, with deep eCommerce expertise, and has raised over $170 million from top-tier VC

funds including Christian Angermayer's Elevat3 Capital, which counts Peter Thiel as a strategic partner. We now have 60+ colleagues in North America, Europe and the Far East. I received the Forbes 30 Under 30 award within Ecommerce and Retail in Europe for our progress to date –Ollie was too old ... just.

WILL STUART (2009, D)

ED WAKEFIELD (2009, H)

England rugby player Will Stuart was flown back from Paris by fellow OR Ed Wakefield in March following a match. They reunited briefly on the tarmac for a photo.

BERTIE BEOR-ROBERTS (2009, H)

I was called to the bar in November 2021, and have been busy completing pupillage with a set of commercial chancery barristers. In this regard, wearing a gown for five years at Radley has turned out to be better preparation than I realised at the time. I moved to Bristol last year, and have been lucky to have caught up after many years with fellow H Social OR James Burgess (2007, H) who made the move at the same time.

Ed Wakefield and Will Stuart on the tarmac.

2010s

CHARLIE CRAVEN (2010, F)

I passed out of Sandhurst in December 2021 and joined the Grenadier Guards, and was a member of the colour party. This June I took part in the Queen’s Jubilee Pageant as part of the Grenadier Guards Detachment. I will be deploying

to Iraq in December as part of Operation Shader.

GEORGE TRELAWNY (2011, C)

Yesterday, the Officer Cadets of the senior term at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, finished our final exercise (Ex Dynamic Victory). After the final attack, all cadets were allowed to put their new

regimental headdress on for the first time. This was followed by a little photo shoot. The fairly strong Radley contingent took this opportunity, and secured a photo in the little German model village.

FREDDIE MARSHALL (2012, C)

Freddie shared a photo of six of the numerous Old Radleians who are currently

From left to right (unless stated otherwise commissioning as 2nd Lieutenants): • Harry Ashcroft (2010, B, Welsh Guards) • George Trelawny (2011, C, Coldstream Guards) • Captain Tom Stewart (2005, F, platoon commander and part of the RMAS permanent staff, Household Cavalry) • Nick Bennett (2011, J, the Royal Lancers) • Rupert Elmhirst (2011, E, Grenadier Guards) • Freddie Marshall (2012, C, Irish Guards)

Pictured left to right: Nick Bennett (2011, J, Royal Lancers), Rupert Elmhirst (2011, E, Grenadier Guards), Jacob Peel (2011, C, Royal Anglians), Tom Allan (2012, C, Welsh Guards), Freddie Marshall (2012, C, Irish Guards), Harry Ashcroft (2010, B, Welsh Guards)

at, or have recently completed their training at, Sandhurst.

FERGUS WILSON (2013, J)

This September, myself and Tom Daniel (2013, H) cycled 300 miles in the South West of Scotland raising over £1000 in aid of the charity RE:ACT Disaster Response. We did this independently over 4 days whilst carrying our bags on our bikes, making it all the more difficult, and the

total elevation gain over the 300 miles was the equivalent to climbing Mount Kenya.

CHRISTOPH WALLENDAHL (2014, F)

I have enjoyed coxing the Magdalen College Men's VIII and captaining the Oxford University Men's Blues Fencing Team at Varsity this year. I am looking forward to starting the final year of my MEng in Information Engineering, focusing on Machine Learning.

GEORGE MEDD (2014, H)

On the 23rd July 2022 ORs George Medd (2014, H) and Edward Roest (2015, E) commissioned from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (CCS 222) into the Queen's Own Yeomanry and the Scottish and Northern Irish Yeomanry respectively. They are continuing their university education alongside this commitment.

ED ROEST (2015, E)

On the 23rd of July I marched up the steps at Old College, ‘passing out’ from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. I have joined E Sqn (Lothians and Border

Yeomanry) The Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry as a Troop Leader, and will return to Sandhurst upon completion of my university degree. I aim to stay in the Royal Armoured Corps as a regular officer.

Hon Members

HAMISH AIRD (Hon Member)

Her Majesty the Queen was delighted to meet the Emperor of China who, as King Hamish l was happy to accept the throne of the kingdom of Lock Bottom at Sandford-on-Thames, Oxon for 24 hours. Although delighted to be honoured in this way The Emperor of China may not have been well-advised on current regal wear in the West, even though he matched up quite well with The Lord High Malcolm, Enthroner in Chief, who aided by the Venerable Archbishop Bob of Lock Bottom conducted the ceremony with all due solemnity. There was feasting after the ceremony to the accompaniment of a steady fall of rain (seen in these times as a true miracle).

MARK FLOYER (Hon Member)

Snezzy and I continue to enjoy ‘retirement’ in Sussex welcoming a fifth grandchild into the family in April. I have enjoyed being part of a successful Sussex Over 60s cricket squad and have published two books - a collection of poetry ‘Scrabbled’ (Paekakariki Press) and some more memoir essays ‘More Harvesting’ (Cyberwit).

Ed Roest (2015, E), front row, 3rd from the right, and other officer cadets being inspected by the Sultan of Oman at Sandhurst.

George Medd (2014, H) and Ed Roest (2015, E).

Emperor Hamish at the Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Fergus and Tom cycled 300 miles to raise money for RE:ACT.

OLD RADLEIAN OFFICERS

We are aware of a number of ORs who have undertaken duties following the death of the late Queen Elizabeth II. They include: (pictured above, L – R)

• Lt Col Guy Stone LVO, Welsh Guards (former Brigade Major Household Division) (1985, D)

• Col David Hannah MBE, Irish Guards (former Brigade Major Household Division) (1980, C)

• Col Toby Till MBE, Coldstream Guards (1986, B) Maj Charlie Beare, Welsh Guards (1997, G)

Col David Hannah said of the role of Brigade Major of the Household Division: ‘this particular job carries the responsibility, working for The Major General, of the planning and preparation of the military contribution to Operation London Bridge, which is the codename (no longer classified), for the arrangements relating to the death of the sovereign and all the related events leading up to Her Majesty’s funeral, for which the overall responsibility is in the hands of The Earl Marshall, the Duke of Norfolk.

This particular aspect of the Brigade Major post has occupied much of our time, effort, and focus over the past few years, on top of responsibility for policy & planning of other more usual State Ceremonial Commitments (such as the Birthday Parade, state visits, public duties & guards of honour). Lt Col Guy Stone and I have both tried to build on the excellent work of our distinguished predecessors in this unique post, including Colonel Christopher Langton, Irish Guards (1965, F) & Charlie Lomer, Coldstream Guards (1963, F), both ORs of earlier generations.

This photo of the four of us was taken very quickly because it was in the middle of a handover of vigil teams. At the time, there was at

least one other OR present, Lt Col Hugo Collis, who was not in the group photographed because he was still on parade at the catafalque, about to dismount from his last vigil duty. We were all subsequently privileged to have various roles in the state funeral on Monday 19th September, ranging from marching in the procession, as procession marshalls, and providing support to the BBC coverage. It was a great honour to have the opportunity to be part of the enormous collective effort to serve these last duties for Her Majesty The Queen, our late Colonel in Chief, hopefully with a diligence that follows her constant example and, by definition, our first formal duties to our new King and Colonel in Chief.’

Also involved have been:

• Lt Col Hugo Collis, Irish Guards (1988, E)

• 2nd Lt Tom Allen, 1st Battalion Welsh Guards (2004, A)

• Major Charlie Williams, Grenadier Guards (2002, F)

• James Castle (1984, D): On September 19th I had the enormous honour and privilege of being one of the 72 hand selected Royal British Legion Standard Bearers to parade at the State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. I am currently the Standard Bearer for Cowden, Hartfield and District Branch of the Royal British Legion.

2nd Lt Tom Allen, 1st Battalion Welsh Guards (2004, A)

A RUDE AWAKENING

Seymour Shaw (2016, F) recounts his extraordinary gap year spent training and patrolling with Protrack, an anti-poaching unit based in South Africa, and backpacking through Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

After leaving Radley in 2021 I wanted to grab the bull by the horns for my gap year. I was determined to find some character-building experiences by throwing myself into a challenge. I found this in the form of an anti-poaching unit in Hoedspruit, South Africa, called Protrack, an organisation which combats poaching of wildlife using armed teams, and promises the toughest anti-poaching training in Africa. With an average 25% pass rate, only the most persistent recruits remain to serve the worthy cause of protecting highly targeted and endangered rhinos.

In my dream, I was back in Hall, feasting on Radley’s finest fish and chips (generously slathered with tartar sauce); I was rudely brought back to reality with the sudden splash of ice-cold water to my blindfolded face. The all too familiar phrase was belted out by the instructors: ‘If the ears don’t listen?’ followed by our groaned drill reply ‘the body will feel’. I remembered where I was. The instructors, never failing to follow through with this promise, treated us to what felt like an endless 12 hour overnight ordeal of stress positions and cold-water sprays.

By the time our ‘Vasbyt’ (gritted teeth) exercise was over, we were down to 15 out of the 29 who had started training a few weeks earlier. At dawn we were treated to a 30 km march back to camp, with 30 kg of kit, made to feel even heavier as most of us had lost around 10kgs of our bodyweight, and were covered in ticks (I was baffled as to why they would bother; there was barely any nutrition to extract from us). Though team UK had halved (two British ex-soldiers having quit) my friend Harry (from Sherborne) and I were keen to persevere, spurred on by assertions about us ‘British oaks’ being ‘too soft’. Team UK performed well in the drill, however the CCF masters would be appalled at the general standard of marching.

This experience was a real eye opener, putting me in extreme situations and presenting me with challenges I would never otherwise have experienced. My training course was 45 days and began with all recruits having our hair shaved (the first time I’d been bald since 2003). The challenges of the training came in different forms. First, the cultural and racial divide was clear: we were told by the sergeant running the course that we were ‘no longer black or white or coloured, you are now green’, and the instructors made sure to inflict severe ‘beastings’ on us if we didn’t mix. Though there were a few digs about the Boer War from some Afrikaners, the Radley history department had equipped me with enough knowledge of the topic to set the record straight. With any hairy situations I often pointed out that the Boer Army actually helped the British Army prepare for the First World War, and led to the founding of my father’s regiment, the Irish Guards. In effect, I courageously said to the Afrikaners that the Boers were really to thank for these successes, and the blatant flattery thankfully resolved any disputes.

Second, the food became an increasingly difficult challenge, as did the social dynamic. With our ration packs, Harry and I scrutinised calorie counts for trades and calculated rationing, resulting in many accusations of ‘using your brain’ too much. This was a criticism I was familiar with, having been told the opposite at school. Even more surprising, I found myself in arguments over science vs black magic (mooti), disputing such claims as it being possible to bottle lightning bolts, or that poachers could turn themselves into baboons to escape anti-poachers.

Though we did ration effectively and made trades with other recruits to get more calorie-dense items, food was a desperate issue. I found myself rummaging in any bin I could get my hands on. Taste wasn’t an issue anymore for the first, and hopefully last, time in my life. All kinds of discarded fruit peel left around by the instructors was a welcome snack. This meant that, during my three days of survival training, I had no qualms about eating impala brain, eye, intestine, charcoaled bones, and squeezing part-digested grass from the impala’s stomach to gain a little water. A week with only two litres of water a day for cooking, drinking, and washing made me see the essentials in a different light.

Seymour (R) on patrol in South Africa

ProTrack

Naturally, 3am wake ups and the dietary conditions were a far cry from Radley. Yet, I managed to bring something from the College in the form of a few Red Army chants, creatively replacing ‘Radley’ with ‘Protrack’. The biggest learning curve was trying to emulate the total self-sufficiency, savvy general knowledge, and unrelenting endurance of our fellow South African recruits. Instructors kept us in the dark regarding each day’s activities, and this meant we became used to uncertainty. The instructors delivered surprise beastings day or night.

This reflects the reality of the job – being alert and prepared for variable situations is essential when you are on patrol or potentially dealing with night ambushes. Aside from beastings, we learned first-hand why conservation of rhinos was so crucial, by being exposed to the brutal damage of poaching. All this stood us in excellent stead after earning our black berets at the completion of training and being out on the job, and also during our travels once we’d left Protrack.

After Protrack, Harry and I travelled through South Africa to the Mozambican border with our 120 litre rucksacks, of all our gear, and a tight budget. Our expedition took us 100 km north along the Mozambican coast from Ponta do Ouro to Inhaca Island, carrying all our food and pitching tents on the beach despite being warned and discouraged by locals. Thankfully, the coast provided fewer hills to climb, though the sand made walking particularly tough. Water was always a concern, but we managed to find various luxury lodges dotted along the coast who, despite providing us with water, were keen to shoo us away. Our camo rucksacks, torn, dirty, overworn clothes, and scraggly hair were not appealing to their guests, apparently. Completing this exertion was highly rewarding and proved we could undertake a lengthy hike, navigate local public transport, and find good value street food. After Mozambique, we joined Harry’s family, including his father Richard Johnson (1981, C), in Zimbabwe for an expedition in Gonarezhou National Park.

I hope to continue making similar excursions, which I expect to get even bigger and more extraordinary. I look forward to leveraging these valuable experiences, particularly when I start university this year at LSE, studying History and Politics. The time away from books and academia has fuelled my motivation for study. Finally, no matter how pitiful the food or squalid the accommodation, I’ll find humour knowing that 8000 miles away there are some poor recruits rustling in bins for orange peel and being rudely awoken by the angelic chorus of the instructors.

Seymour Shaw (2016, F)

Harry, Seymour’s friend and travel companion, on a beach in Mozambique.

training is exceptionally challenging.

ARCH 2 ARC

In their first summer since finishing at Radley, four new ORs undertook a remarkable journey to raise money for two charities: the Batten Disease Family Association and the Ruth Strauss Foundation. They set out to travel from Marble Arch to the Arc de Triomphe, all under their own steam. Hamish Rimmer (2017, G) explains their motivations, and the unexpected challenges along the way.

20,000 calories, 4,500m elevation, 500km, 40°C heat, 5 bikes, 4 riders, 4 punctures, 2 cars, 2 charities, 1 challenge.

In November of 2019, Edward Mortimer (2017, C) and Max Hartwright (2017, C) proposed a challenge to me that they had devised to raise money for charity, ‘Arch2Arc’ they called it, and they asked March Turnbull (2017, E) and I to join the team. More than two years later, after countless meetings, facetimes, emails, and phone calls, we finally stood beneath the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. We were knackered. We had rowed halfway and back across the Channel, had cycled from London to Paris, and now stood on shaky legs at our finish line. Yet we knew we had accomplished something amazing, and that the sponsorship had continued to pour in while we were travelling. We felt like we were on top of the world.

The Arch2Arc challenge went through many adjustments: originally it was Arc2Arch; we were meant to do it in 2021; we wanted to row the full Channel rather than half and back. Yet the one thing that did not change were the two charities we were supporting.

The Batten Disease Family Association (BDFA) helps support families affected by Batten disease, a group of fatal genetic disorders, and was chosen by Mortimer due to his close friendship with a family affected by the disease. The Ruth Strauss Foundation (RSF), set up by former England cricket captain Sir Andrew Strauss (1990, B) in memory of his wife, aims to help families with professional support when facing the death of a parent from cancer.

Both charities do amazing work and help those in need, and it was a privilege to raise money to support them.

Due to weather conditions, we had to do the challenge in the wrong order, rowing the Channel before leaving from London the next day. As we pushed off from Dover beach on the morning of Monday 18th July, I don’t think any of us understood just how tough the next few days would be. Still riding the high of a successful Henley campaign, we were all in decent shape, yet this did not amount to much after the first 30km at sea.

Reflecting on the whole journey afterwards, we all were unanimous: the hardest day was undoubtedly Tuesday 19th July when we cycled the 150km from London to Dover. When we left at 5am it was 17°C, but when we arrived it was almost 40°C.

During that day alone we had two punctures and a broken gear mechanism, resulting in us mobilising our spare bike only 60 km into a three-day, 450 km ride. The heat took its toll, and only three of us were able to make it to Dover, the fourth unable to continue with just 15 km to go. As we hobbled aboard the ferry to Calais that evening, the next day seemed all too close.

Setting off from Calais we once again rode as a four-man team, light drizzle provided stark contrast to the weather of the previous day, and the 152 km ride passed much faster as we made our way along the gentle hills and smooth roads of the French countryside. A small crash early that morning resulted, remarkably, in the only injuries of the entire challenge. We rolled into Amiens that night tired and sore, but with the satisfaction that we had made it this far and would be in Paris the next day.

The last day was the easiest. The miles seemed to fly by, and we made excellent ground all through the day, navigating wrong turns and the occasional gravel road with practised ease. We managed to pick up two punctures in the last 50 km, one only 2 km from the Arc de Triomphe, bringing our total to 4 punctures. As we stood at the top of the Champs-Élysées and leant on our bikes, with Arch2Arc completed, we knew we had devised, planned, and executed the challenge of a lifetime.

We could not have done it without the help of numerous people, not least our fathers, Alastair, Harry, Ian, and Simon, who accompanied us in the support cars, and were always ready to refill water bottles, fix bikes, or give directions. They undoubtedly made the challenge not only possible but enjoyable, and they deserve much of the credit for making it the adventure it was. In truth, it was not a four-man team, it was four men on the shoulders of many others.

At the time of our arrival at the Arc de Triomphe on Thursday 21st July, £13,400 had been raised for two amazing charities, and we were sure that number would increase.

It was an incredible journey, and no doubt something the four of us will remember forever. Yet the challenge is not completed until the last donation is made. We invite the whole OR community to donate and help us raise even more, to help those who need it.

Hamish Rimmer (2017, G)

OR LETTERS

Looking back with reminiscences from ORs …

The Piccolo in the Attic I suppose that my musical education began in 1952 when we found a piccolo in the attic in Langport. It was so ancient that it was half a key wrong if properly put together but, if not pushed completely into a single entity, could change pitch to the modern level. So when I came to Radley in 1956, having learned the basics of the Boehm system of fingering at prep school, it was inevitable that I would be put into the hands of E.W.Goater, the bandmaster. He was very accomplished in 8 wind instruments, not least the flute. He was an inspiring teacher; always wanting more practice but never getting ratty about lack of it. The band was his domain, but he also played an important role in the orchestra’s work. That and the choir were the province of the praecentor and succentor, Anthony Caesar and James Langrish respectively, with the latter playing the organ.

Among the boys there was some exceptional talent; Mozart’s clarinet concerto being easy meat for one of us. The singing in the choir and choral society was of a high standard; Haydn’s Creation being an endearing memory. I doubt if the orchestra was of such a high standard, but I have only to hear Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg to remember our valiant efforts to conquer the overture. What it sounded like to the audience I do not know but it was great fun participating. I remember gladly that Paddy Stuart came to help the flute section where I was struggling with the faster parts.

There was also musical accompaniment to the marionette theatre performances and singing to the Gilbert and Sullivan performances. Looking at today’s Ferguson singing competition, I am sure that the standard of solo singing has risen well above ours of 60+ years ago, but what I learned then has remained a continuous source of pleasure throughout my life and I thank Radley greatly for all the music we played and sang and learned together. Gaudiamus igitur even when we are no longer juvenes.

Roger Henderson QC, (1956, B)

A Campanological Nemesis

Every morning at 7 o’clock, come rain or shine or Sunday, the dreams of Radley’s just and unjust alike were shattered by the Bi-Dang-BiDang, Bi-Dang-Bi-Dang of the big bell on top of the Mansion. I don’t know whether that bell is still rung or even if it still exists. E Social dormitory was above Covered Passage and the Cloisters, so its

inhabitants always got the full force of its raucous message loud and clear. Until one morning in a summer term they didn’t.

The man who rang that bell was known to all as Flatfoot Matthews, a portly, unsmiling, ill-shaven gent, usually in blue-striped shirtsleeves and baggy, high-waisted grey flannel trousers held up by both belt and braces. He used too much brilliantine in his hair which he scraped straight back to cover up a bit of balding at the back. Flatfoot shuffled along with his toes pointing out in opposite directions, a bit like a heavyweight version of Chaplin’s tramp.

Now, on the aforesaid morning when Flatfoot tugged on the bellrope which hung down through a hole in the roof, the bell, for reasons unbeknownst to all but about 0.4% of Radley’s then current population of 470-odd boys, gave forth a muffled Buh-Thoom, BuhThoom and Flatfoot had to climb up the steep steps onto the roof to investigate the reason for the ineffectiveness of his toils. He found a pair of dark grey terylene trousers securely knotted around the clapper.

Also, for reasons unknown (or at least undisclosed) the fellow who slept in the cubicle next-but-one to mine in E Social dormitory couldn’t find his trousers that morning and had to go down to breakfast wearing white cricket trousers. It was whispered to him that if he wanted to see his trousers again, maybe he should go and speak nicely to the terrifying Mr. Matthews. So, I reckon he must have done just that because he was in his usual garb when he turned up to morning classes.

It has been suggested to me since then that maybe this wasn’t the kindest of pranks, but he of the trousers was really a very good friend of mine called Richard Ashworth and there was no ill-will involved in any of it. He was merely being teased a little for having been slightly obnoxious the day before. When he learned of my part in the proceedings he was highly amused and asked how on earth I had managed to get onto the roof of the Mansion in the middle of the night without being discovered. I told him that undetected crime was a speciality which I must have inherited from my cattle-thief ancestors on the Scotch Borders! Amongst other things he helped coach me through my A-level History, which he was better at than I was, and we kept in touch long after Radley. Sadly, he died suddenly several years ago.

On the subject of trousers, we had a very expert tailor in E Social. In those days drainpipe trousers and bootlace ties were in fashion, as well as pin-down collars. Such articles were not to be obtained at College Shop, but for a small fee a fellow called Mike Benson could alter standard garb to suit the taste of the times.

An untold story from the 1960s, in response to Untold Stories Stephen Fairbairn (1961, E)

Dr Cardwell at Radley

Following a recommendation in the Old Radleian, I recently read an excellent book by OR Richard Beard titled Sad Little Men. He, in turn, referred to No Ordinary Place by another OR, Christopher Hibbert. This is a well-researched history of Radley up until 1997. This included my own “stretch” in the late 60searly 70s. These, of course, were part of the early “Silk years” and I well remember the feeling at the time that the school needed

Roger Henderson, middle row, fourth from the left, holding a flute, with the 1958 Radley Orchestra.

investment and some renewal, particularly of early college buildings, the Old Gym for example.

On p. 278 of Mr Hibbert’s excellent book Dr Hugh Cardwell is mentioned as the science master who opposed the sale of some of the College farmland, in 1970, to raise funds for the purpose of paying off debt and making capital improvements. I well remember this time as Dr Cardwell was quite passionate about the Radley estate and was concerned that the farm would become unviable commercially if the land was sold. He was also concerned that there were archaeological remains that would be destroyed by the development.

In the event the delay in selling the land was very beneficial as the land increased in value by a significant amount by the time it was, indeed, sold two years later. He is mentioned again on p. 293 when Mr Hibbert asserts that Warden Silk, in a direct quote, apparently told Dr Cardwell that “I can’t quite make out what you do here” when there was a discussion about an increase of salary. This really is an extraordinary imputation and I find it very hard to believe that Warden Silk would have made such a comment. As I understand it, under Warden Milligan, Dr Cardwell had been the “idiosyncratic” head of science at a time when physics and chemistry were a combined O-level and biology was an option (with, as I recall, geology). Again, as I understand it, the College planned to make science a more mainstream topic and, in due course, physics and chemistry were examined separately with biology becoming a compulsory subject by the mid-70s.

With these changes in mind, Dr Cardwell delegated his role as head of science to three of his colleagues, as head of physics, head of chemistry and the excellent David Hardy as head of biology. It is entirely possible that, as a result of this delegation, Dr Cardwell’s role as head of science became, effectively, redundant, which could explain Warden Silk’s comment. However, as it is written, the implication is that Dr Cardwell was “marking time” by the early 70s. I can say from my own experience that Dr Cardwell was, indeed, an “idiosyncratic” don but he was, by no means, alone in that at Radley at the time. He was also “a prickly man at the best of times” as Mr Hibbert quotes another, unnamed, colleague. He had been a boffin during the war and was able to capture the imagination of boys with stories of weapons he helped develop, using these and other “red herrings” to get his teaching across. For the record I passed the chemistry element of my O-level under his tutelage but was let down by my physics.

It is said in the book that Dr Cardwell resigned soon after the meeting with Warden Silk, implying it was as a result of the comment the Warden allegedly made. I am able to say that Dr Cardwell resigned because he wanted to establish a small holding at Luppitt in Devon to pursue his interest in farming and, of course, tree cultivation. I live in Devon and, once in a while, pass the farm Dr Cardwell and his wife (Fiona?) worked for a time in retirement. Recently I received an email from Radley proudly announcing that this year more trees than ever are being planted on the college estate. I am pleased to be able to claim some credit for the fifty odd year-old trees currently doing well at Radley. My colleagues and I in the forestry section at that time grew them from, in particular, acorns under Dr Cardwell’s guidance. We often went to arboretums and other tree collections to gather these acorns, all at Dr Cardwell’s personal expense.

Interestingly, for several years after he retired to Devon, Dr Cardwell used to go back to Radley from time to time to maintain the trees we planted, in their early life. After I left Radley, I met up with him at the college for a couple of these visits. We had coffee in the don’s common room and discussed the work with Warden Silk. He always seemed to me to be entirely aware of and grateful for Dr Cardwell’s contribution to Radley.

Antony Dilnot (1969, B)

Praise for the Peter Cook Cup

What amazing talent was on display in the performances of the 2022 Peter Cook Cup (Radleian Society Newsletter – May), my congratulations to all the performers. Our best efforts in the 1966 Declamations paled in comparison but I did try to lighten things up with a Stanley Holloway monologue about “Old Sam”. Despite the applause in the Old Gym, the stony expression on Warden Milligan’s face told me that this was NOT the sort of material he expected, and the Adjudicator similarly dismissed my recital as “music hall”. What a breath of fresh air the Peter Cook Cup has brought!

John Gammage (1962, A)

Peering Though a Pinhole

To look back on my time at Radley in the 1970s is almost like peering through the pinhole of a scenic souvenir charm at a landscape depicting an era when dinosaurs roamed the earth, although it’s also one I remember quite well. After somehow taking a degree at Cambridge, I then drifted into the public relations world while occasionally writing about sport in general and cricket in particular, a game I played seriously badly at school. After getting one or two books published on the latter subject, the PR racket and I parted company to our mutual relief. I’ve since chiefly loitered in the biography field, although I occasionally stray elsewhere. I remember the late DRWS being exceptionally helpful to me when about ten years ago I wrote a book about the cricketerturned-politician Imran Khan, little realising at the time that he, Imran, would go on to be elected prime minister of Pakistan (he still returned my calls).

Peter Cook (1951, C), front row, far left, as a prefect in 1956. The Peter Cook Cup monologue competition, started in 2018, is held in his memory.

Meanwhile, my mother having been American I was lucky enough to qualify for dual UK-US citizenship, and these days I spend much of my time in the Seattle area with my wife and son. Possibly due to a clerical error on somebody’s part, a small book I wrote on the English sporting summer of 1939, entitled The Final Innings, was recently joint winner of the annual MCC/Cricket Society literary award. I suppose the Covid pandemic, so cruel in so many ways, has at least been relatively benign to those of us eccentrics who sit inside most of the time furiously writing books. Having said that, I’m more than happy to see the whole ghastly ordeal apparently if only partially draw to an end. I should add only that I owe a debt to the late Malcolm Robinson, who taught me history at Radley. A great man.’

Christopher Sandford (1970, C)

Read about Christopher’s new publication Laker & Lock: The Odd Couple in the New Releases section.

Study Mates

David Hallmark, John Theophilus, Francis Wilkinson, and Chris Stanger (all 1960, H) shared a study at Radley for four years. Over the years, they have met up to share updates and reflect on some fond memories of their school days. Recently, these study mates met in London and decided to exchange short biographies, some 60 years on from starting their Radley education, trying to squeeze the experiences of a lifetime into around 150 words each.

DAVID HALLMARK (1960, H)

Radley: Attended for 4 years; wonderful opportunities. Warden Milligan’s last report character description of ‘loyalty’ – more successful in teams than solo scholarship. Captain of College Hockey, Captain designate College Rugby, Captain of Cricket 2nd XI, Senior Under Officer in CCF, Sword of Honour, played Captain Stanhope in Journey’s End

1964 – 1969: Qualified solicitor. 1970: drove east in Land Rover to Bangkok, started defending RN sailor charged with murder, later defended US Marine in Vietnam War Court Martial. Lawyer working in Jakarta and Hong Kong, returning in 1974 by 42’ yacht

from HK South China Seas Indian Ocean to Seychelles.

1978 – 1992: International Commission of Jurists Missions to stop massive human rights abuses by Prime Ministers in Thailand and Malaysia. Travels: Hindu Kush, Borneo, Burma, Irian Jaya.

1976 – 2012: Partner in Worcester law firm with a historical connection to WL Curtler, OR.

2007 – 2008: OBE for services to the community. Visiting Fellow of Trinity College, Oxford.

Author: The Battle of Worcester 1651; The Role of Lawyers in Developing Countries

Family: My brother Richard joined H in 1963 and then went to Bristol University, travelled to remote parts of South America, founded his own law firm in south London, established a law book publisher, and compiled a specialist dictionary on mental health.

JOHN THEOPHILUS (1960, H)

Radley: My great uncle was Adam Fox, poet and Warden of Radley (1918 – 1924). I was Social prefect, and part of the 2nd VIII, and spent most of my time on the river!

1964 – 1975: Trained as a Chartered Accountant with Deloitte London. On qualifying I spent 7 years in Investment Banking –Corporate Finance – the first 4 years in Switzerland. I spent 11 years in the Royal Green Jackets Reserve (1965-76).

1976 – 2007: Group Finance Director of major property development companies in London, ending as Property Director of NCP Developing their car parks. In these years I came across and worked with many ORs. My son was at Radley (1993-1998) also in H Social.

2007 – present: Currently retired, I have my own property company. I am a trustee of Winchester Hospice and Vice-Chairman of my London Club, the Army and Navy (“The RAG”).

FRANCIS WILKINSON (1960, H)

Radley: I was at Radley with my two brothers Guy (1961, H) and Simon (1962, H). I was Captain of the Sailing Club, which was based at the gravel pits near the river.

Further education: I am an alumnus of Templeton College, (now Saïd Business School) Oxford.

1964 – 1978: From Radley I went straight to Sandhurst and had an Army career which lasted 13 years, leaving at age 31 as a Major.

In 1971 I married Jackie; we have two sons.

1978 – 2003: After the Army, I had 25 years with the John Lewis Partnership where I

◀ David, John, Francis and Chris with others at Francis’s passing out ball.

Left to right: Chris, David, John, Francis.

held several senior positions in the Department Store side of the business.

2003 – present: I have been a Magistrate, Chairman of our Parish Council

Family: My brother Guy became a senior adviser to the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Church of England. My brother Simon, later Assistant Chaplain at Radley, also joined the Territorial Army, reaching the rank of Lt Colonel.

CHRIS STANGER (1960, H)

Radley: I was Captain of the Hockey Team.

1965 – 1975: I went to Sandhurst and joined the Royal Green Jackets in 1967. I served with the United Nations peace keeping force in Cyprus. My battalion was sent to Northern Ireland in 1969, at the start of the Troubles. I went there four more times.

1975 – 1977: I was part of the UK’s Berlin force. I did some jungle warfare training in Malaysia, visiting Singapore and Hong Kong. 1978 – 2002: I retired from the Army in 1978 as a captain. I failed to keep the peace in Cyprus, Northern Ireland and London, but kept the peace in Berlin as there was no nuclear war! I joined the Metropolitan Police. I spent time at Shepherds Bush, Chelsea and Staines Police stations. On 17th December 1983 as Police Sergeant I attended the scene of a Provisional IRA timebomb in a car at Harrods which exploded, severely wounding me, and killing three colleagues. I left the Police in 2002 as an Inspector, and was then employed by Springfield (Mental Health) Hospital in Tolworth to liaise with the Police. I learnt a lot about mental health issues. 2020 – present: I stopped working in 2020. My hobbies include studying history, in particular military history.

Family: My elder brother Michael was at Radley (1956, H) followed by my younger brother Peter (1963, H)

Some More Untold Stories

I was delighted to read Radley College: Untold Stories. This was absolutely fascinating and reconnected me with the happiest time of my life, when I was at Radley between 1969-1974.

I owed my place at Radley to Dennis Silk. I had been offered the Sewell Scholarship, which at the time was only one third fees, but had also won a full fees scholarship to Aldenham School. Dennis offered to increase the scholarship to half fees (this was 1969 and not long after he arrived and long before the Silk Fund). My parents left the choice of which place to take to me – how does a 13-yearold make such a decision? I know I made the right decision and have remained grateful to Dennis ever since.

While I was at Radley, there was an astronomical refracting telescope, for which there was a mount on top of Mem Arch (the telescope was stored in one of the turrets). I have no idea where it originally came from. As secretary of the astronomical society, I did try and get a proper observatory rebuilt away from the buildings and light pollution. Dennis Silk was supportive and offered some funding for the costs, but there were not enough of us interested and able to build it and also none of the dons were terribly interested either at the time, so nothing happened.

I was also the secretary of the archaeological society, which, at the time, was excavating a Romano-British farm at Peachcroft Farm under Dr. John Moore. This was great fun. I did write a

little bit about it for the Council for British Archaeology Group 9 Newsletter (I don’t have the exact reference and can’t find it online, but I think it would have been published in either 1974 or 1975). To my enduring shame, the letter did not include John’s name as a co-author! I don’t know whether the archive has anything about the excavations.

You had an interesting section on prizes. One thing that always puzzled me was that in my last term I was awarded the Richards Gold medal. I knew that recipients’ names were inscribed on the boards in School. I never found out anything about the medal and its history, although at the time I was rather disappointed that the ‘medal’ was actually a book token and not a gold medal! I think it was awarded for all round excellence/contribution to Radley.

Your section on girls at Radley (p.155) was interesting. I am sure that Bursar Jones’ daughters were informally attending college activities before 1975, as I remember them and I left in 1974. Mr Stoughton-Harris’ eldest daughter was also attending activities too: she was on a biology field-trip to the Gower Peninsula with me, which must have been either late 1973 or 1974. So, I think the process was a gradual one that started earlier!

You had a section on the role that social tutors had in looking after the boys, especially those whose families lived abroad. I was one such: my parents first moved to Holland and then Spain when I started at Radley. Radley became my ‘home’. I travelled backwards and forwards at the end of terms and at half terms: I would travel by myself (from the age of 14), catching the train from Radley to Reading and then the airport coach to Heathrow. People would be horrified now that an unaccompanied minor should be making such trips but it seemed quite normal and no-one ever raised any questions! On one occasion the taxi ordered by the College to take me to Radley station failed to turn up (I think it was 6 am in the morning!), so I had to go and get David Goldsmith out of bed and he drove me to Didcot to catch a fast train. I don’t think he was very pleased.

Gavin Spickett (1969, E)

Students at an archaeological dig at Peachcroft Farm, 1972

OR LETTERS

Looking forward with future thinking from ORs ...

Building the Future: an update

I have now moved into a full-time role as Communications Manager for Greencore Construction, a company set up by my father Ian Pritchett and his business partner, Martin Pike, in 2013. Greencore is a multi-award-winning designer and builder of highperformance, Climate Positive homes. Early this year, we received investment from M&G Catalyst Fund. This will help accelerate Greencore’s journey as the market-leader in a housing revolution that will protect the future of the planet. The big problem is that the construction industry is one of the world’s biggest polluters and there is little incentive for anyone to build responsibly.

Oxfordshire has recently declared a climate emergency and the county is very eager to see zero-carbon housing delivered as soon as possible. Although we have historically focused on Oxfordshire, we are now looking at projects all around the South of England and aim to build 4 more factories and at least 1000 houses over the next 5 years as we find suitable projects or sites.

We have recently finished building Springfield Meadows, an exemplar project of 25 units (9 affordable and 16 private homes), just 10 miles from Radley in the village of Southmoor. The project has been a huge success and has proven the model for Climate Positive houses. Our brief was to make this the most sustainable housing development in the country by building to Passivhaus energy standards, achieving zero-carbon footprint and net-zero energy in use for all 25 houses. We are very proud of this project and have won 10 awards so far and been shortlisted for 6 others.

WSP, the leading construction consultants, recently reviewed one of our Springfield houses to validate our achievement of ‘better than zero embodied carbon’. Bear with me whilst I get a bit technical here, but I will explain what these numbers mean and why they’re important! WSP have calculated that a typical house at Springfield

Meadows achieved a whole life embodied carbon of -278KgCO2e/ m2 vs an industry average of +1200kgCO2e/m2. The audit shows that a ‘typical’ 100m2 Greencore house is locking up (sequestering) an additional 27.8 tonnes of CO2 in the bio-based materials (through photosynthesis by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and cellulose). In layman’s terms, this means the carbon footprint (embodied carbon) for the house is -27.8 tonnes compared to the RIBA business as usual carbon footprint of +120T per house. In addition, the average carbon emissions from a normal house are 3T to 5T of CO2e per year. This means that a new house built this year will be responsible for over 200T of CO2e by 2050! As you can see, business as usual is a huge problem and embodied carbon is the elephant in the room which no one is discussing. Even the government’s 2050 standards only include the operational carbon emissions and not the embodied carbon.

As part of meeting the needs of the local community and environment, we worked with Bioregional using their One Planet Living framework which was integrated from an early stage with a robust action plan. We have an electric car club on site where residents have 2 electric cars available to hire thus eliminating the need for a second or third car in the household. We’ve created community features such as an orchard, large public gardens and a wildlife pond for the residents to enjoy and so they have shared spaces to socialise in. We’ve also avoided big gates and fences to encourage the residents to form a community. Other aspects of the OPL action plan are regular meetings to help build a community, and to support sustainability across the development, including things such as car sharing, tool sharing and community action. The local Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) have designed all the outdoor spaces and gardens to maximise and improve biodiversity. They will monitor the wildlife and biodiversity of the project for the next 5 years and report back on their findings.

We believe this is the future of housing and how we need to build to achieve our global Carbon targets and to stop Climate Change. James Pritchett (2001, F)

The original Building the Future article can be read in the Old Radleian, 2019. A video about the development, including details about the technologies used, can be viewed on YouTube: https:// youtu.be/ovytcaA82bA

Greencore was founded by Ian Pritchett and his Business Partner, Martin Pike in 2013. Ian’s son (pictured above) James is Communications Manager.

◀ Wildflower meadows and bee-friendly planting in front of new houses on the Springfield Meadows development by Greencore.

Vote with your wallet for a better future

Three years ago, I was looking to align my pension savings with my environmental values. The positively impactful investment funds that I wished to invest into were not available on any of the workplace pension platforms in the UK. Concluding there were bound to be others like me looking for a similar home for their long-term savings, I decided to build a dedicated platform solution.

Pangea is the UK’s first truly aligned positively impactful SelfInvested Personal Pension (SIPP) solution. We only partner up with dedicated positively impactful asset management firms who solely focus on investing into businesses providing solutions to the environment crisis and social inequality. Pangea is Pending B Corporation and a member of 1% for the Planet - allocating 1% of our annual revenue to environmental charities and foundations. We are also signatories and campaigners for the Better Business Act and Business Declares.

As consumers, we believe you vote with your wallet for the world you wish to inhabit. Society is not so familiar with the detrimental impact their savings and investments have on the planet. It is our mission to change that narrative and encourage investors to positively engage with their pension, often their largest store of flexible wealth.

We believe the world is on the cusp of a positively impactful revolution, where purpose is placed on a level playing field with profit. Pangea hopes to play its part in moving the needle towards a more sustainable and regenerative future. https://pangea.earth/ Nick Stoop, (1996, E)

Shaping the Future

It was Albert Einstein who said, “If we are to solve the significant problems we face today, we have to have a different level of thinking than we had when we created them.”

Those of us who are looking to the future think we are solving issues today but in reality, we are creating issues for future generations to solve.

A long time ago there was a frustrated father, whose son, not being very academic, had failed his common entrance, and went to see the Warden. The young boy was told to sit on the bench outside the Warden’s study as the father went in; there is no record of what transpired over the next few minutes but when the study door opened sentence was pronounced, “You are going to Radley”.

At any point in time, we are the sum total of all our yesterdays and our future for eternity is shaped by the consequences of the decisions we make in the present, the ripple effect.

The next few years were very average, almost average to the point of insignificance, but a future was being created. The Biblical truth of, “one sows, another waters and another harvests” was being enacted. What is sown is not always a seed of thought, it might be an experience, a feeling, or an attitude, but none the less, sowing and germination was taking place. So, what has happened over the ensuing 60 years? A realisation and acceptance of the words of

Mahatma Ghandi, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world”. This is not an academic, head knowledge but a reality that transcends from the head to the heart, a change in lifestyle, accepting responsibility for one’s choices and actions. Until as human beings we accept that we are unable to live together and begin to be the change, we are condemning future generations to more of the same. Radley has helped shape and mould many, I am one.

Peter Hawksworth (1962, F)

The Crucial Issue of Sustainability

In June 2021, aged 81.75, I woke up at 4.00am one morning with the realisation that I should use the time I had left in a completely different manner. This epiphany involved me cutting down on much frivolous expenditure, telling my children – who are all ecologically minded – they should expect to inherit nothing from me, and urgently searching for sustainable or renewable causes to donate to.

As of July 2022 – in the week of the record heatwave – I am involved in four projects with the Woodland Trust, and by the time you publish, probably also with Blue Marine (founded by Charles Clover) our regional Wildlife Trust, and a private project to create a farm wetland.

Amongst the above activity, I am on a crash course to learn about which flora promotes which bug life … and hence, how we can arrest the catastrophic decline in bird populations. As yet I have not even started to get to grips with the reversal of marine devastation.

As I told my family, what is the point of passing on cash to, in my case, 8 children and 16 grandchildren (including steps) if, as at the Norfolk coast this week, a family home has been horribly threatened by a wildfire?

I live in the hope that before I die, my car will once again have to pass a SEWT ‘Summer Evening Windscreen Test’ … whereby 50 years ago we all had to pull over every 50 miles, so we could see where we were going. We used to curse that repetitive performance, but now we grieve!

George Cornelius (1953, A), with thanks to, and inspired by, Charles Clover

buggies.

Electric vehicle charging points are now widely available at Radley, and utility vehicles used by the Grounds Staff have been replaced with electric

A Thoughtful Response

A response to the inspirational ‘humanist’ comments by Peter Tracey (1950, H) in ‘News and Notes’, Old Radleian 2021.

I was thrilled to read what Peter wrote – quite diverted from the regular OR exploits – because we were not educated to explore or expose our feelings, spiritual bias or underlying life beliefs, in British public school education. I also believe that these days the ‘spirit’ within the totality of ‘body, mind and spirit’ is extremely undernourished. It is as if we are sitting on a 3-legged stool with one short leg and this has led, almost universally, to a desperate lack of stable core values in society at large. Humanism is a very good start. Yet for me something is missing: that is a creative potential, whether you call it a divine spark or whatever jargon you like.

Radley gave me a very sound base in a religious discipline with the Chapel routine, but never answered deeper questions except with platitudes, or fed my ‘search for meaning’. Seeking such answers has been my personal journey. The Chinese incursion and takeover of Tibet in 1959 upset me deeply, and Lobsang Rampa’s book ‘The Third Eye’ was inspirational. I felt a pull to the East.

Then at Trinity College Dublin, mixed with Engineering, Sailing and Exploration, The Plain Truth opened my eyes to other realities, and posed awkward choices: Did I believe? Or did I not? I wasn’t allowed to choose a shade of grey! But avoiding answers, I chose to join the non-religious path of Subud (Susila Budhi Dharma), not religious but very much spiritual, and I still practice that. In my 30s I discovered Sun Bear’s system of ‘Earth Astrology’ working with the Medicine Wheel, known to all indigenous people of ‘Turtle Island’ (America), from which I realise how we are living in the very end times of the fourth

world, in sync with the cosmic drama being played out. Right now, it’s “All change, boys!”

This is fundamental to me, in walking in peace and acceptance of my life path, and seems to have been well complemented by my ‘landing’ within the fold of The White Eagle Lodge (also in my 30s). By contrast my partner now (we’ve been together 9 years) spent many years of her life’s work within the Hari Krishna movement. These are a few of my avenues of search as a ‘spiritual explorer’, and each has brought me added insight, understanding or fulfilment.

Humanism seems well aligned with the Dalai Lama’s comment that “My religion is one of kindness”. However, the use of the word ‘religion’ implies a much wider perspective – one embracing the divine spark, a ‘big bang’, a flow of energy, and human love and nurture. I go with all that!

I was diagnosed with PSP in 2018 (a degenerative brain condition, related to Parkinsons), so I will probably be terminated a little prematurely. Please now cast your mind back to the Black and White Blues of the Radley College Marionettes with Peter Cook in 1958, and a few years later Beyond the Fringe (by Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, those brilliant musicians/actors/comedians, who took London by storm). It was Dudley, who sadly had PSP back then, and he was well known for wobbling along the streets of London town, much like a drunkard! There’s been little improvement in treatment over the past 60 years.

Not much more to add, except that lunch is calling. And I don’t ‘wish you a good day – stay safe’ … how boring! But rather ‘a day of happiness, fantasy, joy, excitement - and living on the edge!’

Tim Willcocks (1955, B)

New Releases from ORs

The Economics of Fund Managements

Ed Moisson (1986, G) Agenda Fund management companies control more than $100 trillion of financial assets globally, but they remain poorly understood and investment scandals, such as that surrounding Neil Woodford, persist. Whereas most literature on the industry focuses on how managers invest, this book explores the way these businesses operate as businesses and how they make their money. Fund managers increasingly talk about sustainability and purpose, but they are clear this should not hinder their ability to churn out new products or preserve their sizeable margins. The Economics of Fund Management examines the inherent tensions and potential conflicts of interest within asset managers that seek to keep both clients and shareholders happy. The book addresses how asset management businesses work and casts a critical eye over the way firms operate and make money.

Laker & Lock: The Odd Couple

Titan of the Thames: The Life of Lord Desborough

Sandy Nairn (1966, A) Unbound

William Grenfell (1855-1945), later Lord Desborough, was a brilliant all-round sportsman who became a great public servant, most famous for overseeing the first Olympics in London in 1908, staged at less than two years notice in a brandnew White City stadium.

Having been a cricketer and exceptional runner at school, Grenfell took up rowing at Oxford, later describing himself as being ‘fired by the rowing mania’, and rowing for the University in the contentious dead-heat Boat Race of 1877. Already elected as an MP for Hereford, he rowed in the Grand Challenge Cup in 1881. He became a champion at racing punting, while undertaking feats such as rowing across the Channel in a clinker eight. Later in life Desborough became an advocate for wider participation in sport and, as Chairman of the Thames Conservancy, supervised crucial flood relief measures and the re-building of locks.

Sandy Nairne and Peter Williams have researched the fascinating life of Desborough under the title, Titan of the Thames. Radleians may know Desborough’s name from the Thames, from the Olympic movement or from early 20th century politics, but this is the first account of his work as a great sportsman and campaigner, and of family life with Ettie, and the tragic loss of their sons Julian, Billy and Ivo.

Published by Unbound, advance subscription is available at - https:// unbound.com/books/titan/

Christopher Sandford (1970, C) Pitch Publishing Laker and Lock is the first dual biography of Surrey and England 'spin twins' Jim Laker and Tony Lock, who helped their county and Test teams to an unparalleled run of dominance in the 1950s. Besides their peerless achievements on the field, the two men had little in common. Laker, the elder by seven years, was Yorkshire born, cool, phlegmatic, known to sulk, and not greatly enamoured with the class distinctions then inherent in English cricket and society as a whole. Lock, a southerner, was dynamic, ebullient, indefatigable both on and off the field, and tended to wear his heart on his sleeve, an attitude no less at odds with the prevailing social order. Both men courted controversy. Laker's post-retirement autobiography caused such a furore that he was made unwelcome at Lord's and the Oval for years afterwards. Lock suffered the stigma of being labelled a 'chucker' and ultimately moved to Australia, where his retirement was clouded by allegations of sexual abuse. This is the full story of the pair's uneasy partnership.

Sailing Free: The saga of Kári the Icelander

John Nugée (1969, H) Laburnum Publishing Sailing Free follows the life of Kári Ragnarsson, an Icelandic shipowner and merchant, and his brother Guðmundr, who dutifully takes over the family farm, as they traverse adulthood against a backdrop of 11th century Iceland. Kári’s business takes him across the northern seas to Orkney, Scotland and England, where he learns the ways of trading in the Viking world, while Guðmundr gets caught up in a complicated love triangle that becomes a dispute with a local chieftain and threatens to ruin his family. All around greedy neighbours seek to amass power and subvert Iceland’s ancient liberties; feuds are common and justice is being eroded and abused by those in charge.

An unexpected storm drives Kári and his men to distant lands, where he falls foul of a powerful king and is forced to fight for his life and his freedom overseas, before returning to Iceland to find himself having to repel attacks on his family’s farm and way of life. As Church and State lock horns over Iceland’s legal customs and way of life, Kári is compelled to defend much more than his family’s fortunes.

Through the medium of a traditional saga, Sailing Free uses the history of the Icelandic Commonwealth to explore questions of politics, religion and sovereignty, themes which are just as relevant today as they were a thousand years ago.

Inca Ride

Ed Lines (1998, B) Independently published

In 2009, four British university graduates rode 3,000 kilometres along the spine of the perilous Andes mountains. Their sixmonth adventure took them through Ecuador and Peru, along the ancient routes of the Incas, the largest pre-Columbian empire in South America. Trekking with their noble criollo horses through precipitous mountain, dense jungle

and searing desert, enduring altitudes up to 15,000 feet, they are exposed to some of the most savage terrain on Earth. On their path, they experience injury and disease, find themselves held at gunpoint, and become subjected to the immense instability of the Andean elements.

Inca Ride is the story of their journey, their friendship and humour, the companionship with their horses, and their human encounters along the way. This is a tale that will captivate travellers, horse enthusiasts and those with a love of the happenstance of life itself.

All proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to Alzheimer’s Society UK (Reg. No. 296645) and Médecins sans Frontières (Reg. No. 1026588) https://amzn.eu/d/38Q9zWN

It's Cold at the End of the Bed

Peter Johnson (Hon Member) Troubador

As both mental health and head injuries in sport are under scrutiny, Peter Johnson explores the demands of professional sport.

On their final day at Oakwood Primary two talented pupils, Sam Martin, the best in school at sport, and Charlie Woods, its brightest academic prospect, go head to head in the Year 6 fifty metre dash. It is a day neither of them will forget.

Afterwards they go their separate ways to different schools. Charlie achieves her goal of gaining a place to read engineering at Imperial College London and Sam fulfils his dream of winning a professional rugby contract but struggles with the physical and mental pressures inherent in playing sport for a living.

When life changing events bring the two together again, can the spark of friendship that Sam and Charlie felt when they were young be rekindled? A story of loss, love, frustrated ambitions and shattered hopes unfolds as they strive to overcome their emotional and physical challenges.

The Far Side of the Moon: Trials of my Father

Clive Stafford Smith (1973, F) Harvill Secker

Clive explores the parallel lives of his father Dick and his client Larry Lonchar, who were both labelled bi-polar disorder (and suffered from the stigma of it, as well as its manifestations). Ultimately the book questions our very approach to what we label ‘mental illness’ and questions whether we would not often do better to seek how best each person can be accommodated by society, rather than be forced to conform to it. In seeking to destigmatise what both Dick and Larry went through, Clive also delves into his own ‘idiosyncrasies’, including how the emotional damage caused by being ‘sent away’ to boarding school at a very young age actually prepared him for the trauma of having to be with his death row clients in the execution chamber.

In Personam

Andrew Robinson (1960, H) The Hovel Press

These are poems founded in interpersonal experience, treating of love & loss, shipwreck and other journeys, joy & grief. Mostly soliloquies voiced by various imagined or other persons. Some are light; others are dark, and angry.

The range is from versions of Catullus to Putin’s War, teenage romance to incestuous rape, Evensong to waking visions in the churchyard. Briefly to read through the whole book in an hour, but with the depth to entirely engage the heart & mind.

Copies of In Personam are available from the author. Please email carvoza@gmail.com, or send £10 and a self-addressed A5 envelope to Andrew W S Robinson (H1960) 13 Carvoza Rd, Truro, TR1 1BA.

Dragon Tree

Rolf Richardson (1947, H) Independently published Leo Keening, recently bereaved, is taking some recovery time on the Greek island of Skiathos, where he meets a Danish couple, Mette and Mogens Madsen. One morning Mogens fails to return from his morning run and is found dead on the steps leading to their B&B. ‘Obviously’ an accident, but not to Mette, who believes her husband may have been killed because he is leader of the Danish ‘Frihetsparti’, which seeks to leave the European Union. Leo offers Mette help and a shoulder to cry on during this traumatic time, accompanying her to a Greek priest who is running a ‘Grexit’ campaign, similar to Mogens. Does Father Evangelos have any ideas about who might have wanted Mogens dead? Assuming he was murdered, which only Mette really believes. Picking up new characters en-route, we visit Rome, Denmark, and Florida. Then to Oman in the Middle East, for the tense and unexpected finale.

Harvesting

Mark Floyer (Hon Member) Cyberwit

Like most of us, when the Coronavirus Pandemic struck in March 2020, Mark Floyer was forced to re-think his priorities and tackle his days differently. The world no longer provided distractions for the reluctant writer and there was little to prevent him from confronting the blank page on the screen every morning. Harvesting is a book of memoirs covering a childhood in post-colonial India, a career in teaching in prose and poetry.

More Harvesting

Mark Floyer (Hon Member) Cyberwit

More Harvesting is the sequel to Harvesting (Cyberwit, 2020) and forms a series of essays about childhood, transient time, ancestral history, cricket & poetry, Devon and the writing of diaries. Written in both poetry and prose, these reflective writings sum up some of the experiences of a full life lived working in academia, writing poetry, playing cricket and raising a family.

Hybrid Humans

Harry Parker (1996, D) Wellcome Collection

A gripping, eye-opening account of how technology might be about to alter our understanding of what it means to be human. Harry Parker’s life changed overnight when he lost his legs to an IED in Afghanistan. That took him into an often surprising landscape of a very human kind of hacking, and he wondered, are all humans becoming hybrids? Whether it’s putting on contact lenses every day or DIY biohackers tinkering in garages, Parker introduces us to the exhilarating breadth of human invention – and intervention. Grappling with his own new identity and disability, he discovers the latest robotics, tech and implants that might lead us to powerful, liberating possibilities for what a body can be. A BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week.

George Dawson and His Circle: The Civic Gospel in Victorian Birmingham

Andrew Reekes (Hon Member)

The Merlin Press co-authored with Professor Stephen Roberts ‘In Birmingham you may generally recognise a board school by it being the best building in the neighbourhood, with its lofty towers, gabled windows, warm red bricks and stained glass.’ So observed the Pall Mall Gazette in 1894. The famous civic gospel shaped Birmingham as ‘the best governed city in the world.’

The inspiration for the transformation of Birmingham in the second half of the 19th century came from the sermons of ‘the greatest talker in England’ George Dawson. The men who oversaw the improvement of the town mostly sat on Sunday mornings in the pews of the Church of the Saviour. These were the men who were responsible for: a unique memorial library dedicated to the works of Warwickshire’s very own William Shakespeare; the foremost intellectual centre (the Birmingham and Midland Institute); the first municipal technical school; the most famous art school in the country; and an enviable new art gallery.

This is an important book because it book recovers the stories of a group of men of vision behind the elevation and civilising of Birmingham’s citizens, men who have not received their due: the architect J.H. Chamberlain, the Shakespeare scholar Sam Timmins, the reforming lawyer Arthur Ryland, the newspaper proprietor J.T. Bunce, the ministers R.W. Dale and Henry Crosskey and others in seeking to nurture intellectual development and aesthetic taste with art and technical education, free libraries and fine civic architecture.

Romantic Revolution, Volume II

Michael

Dussek (1971, D) SOMM Recordings

This superbly engineered album features the music of the Czech composer Jan Ladislav Dussek, played by the elegant and technically flawless English pianist Michael Dussek, a descendant of the composer. The album also features two works by Fryderyk Chopin including Chopin's PolonaiseFantaisie, with which Michael Dussek won the Wharton Piano Prize in 1975, and the music is complimented by insightful liner notes.

Dussek’s music has deep roots in the late works of the Classicists, but he decidedly broke with the sound of the past by penning intensely Romantic music that made unprecedented pianistic demands both on the interpreters of his compositions and on the very instruments on which his music was to be played.

Sports & Societies

The

Radleian

Society Racing Syndicate

The 2021/22 season was a record-breaking season for us, where we achieved a total of 50 winners all told (49 jumps and 1 flat winner), and just shy of £500,000 in prize money. A winner at every jumps track in the UK was a personal milestone, which we achieved with Kelso and Newcastle – the final two tracks knocked off the list.

College Oak has had a good season with another winner and some creditable placed efforts. He has now won a total of four races for the Radleian Society and has been placed 11 times from just 19 starts, proving to be a very consistent horse. College Oak won a bumper and a novice hurdle, before winning a competitive handicap at Ascot. He never progressed over a fence last season, but back over hurdles he built on some promising efforts to win at Stratford in July under a lovely ride for Gavin Sheehan. It was just what he deserved having been beaten in a photo finish on his previous start.

It was wonderful to see him get his head back in front again. He jumped brilliantly, he travelled kindly, he quickened up, battled bravely, and stayed strongly. The application of blinkers and riding from the front have really helped him, whilst he coped well with the step up in trip and the tight track didn’t seem to faze him either. It was lovely to have a few Old Radleians there to celebrate.

The new season has started well, albeit from fewer summer runners than normal, and winning the big Summer Hurdle at Market Rasen bodes well for the months ahead. We have a bigger winter team this

season, and I hope we might be able to find a Grade 1 horse and another Cheltenham Festival winner in the team.

After a very productive summer where College Oak either won or was placed in four of his six starts over hurdles, he unfortunately picked up an injury in preparation for his final start of the summer jumps season.  He pulled up lame at the top of the hill after a routine morning canter, and he was lame on his near hind.  Unfortunately, he had sustained a displaced fracture of the left ilial wing of his pelvis. The prognosis is considered reasonable for a return to action, but he will need a bit of time out of action until the spring.

Jamie Snowden

Radley Wildebloods

Radley’s LGBT+ alumni society

This past year has been an enjoyable resurgence for Radley’s LGBT+ alumni society. We started the year with our annual Christmas drinks in central London. This was a great chance to finally meet up again after the lockdowns, with quite a few new members joining us. It also gave us a great chance to start planning, as it was our turn to help to organise the Joint Pride drinks for the LGBT+ alumni societies from Eton, Harrow, Winchester, Sherbourne and Bedales. We decided to change things up this year and move the venue to The Scarlet Door in Soho, where we booked out the downstairs bar. The drinks were definitely flowing freely, especially with over 80 people from the different schools showing up.

We are looking to organise more events in the coming year, especially casual after work drinks around central London. If you want to find out when and where please sign up to our mailing list at www.radley-wildebloods.com.

Adam Lambert (2007, F), Chairman of the Wildebloods

THE RADLEY COLLEGE BEAGLES

The Radley College Beagles were first established in 1940, and have persisted, through better and worse, over the past 82 years. As one of only three remaining schools with a pack, the Radley Beagles are a rare and prized tradition.

Students taking part in Beagling at Radley are involved with all aspects of the sport – from caring for and training the dogs, to shows and parades. In recent years, the pack has gone from strength to strength. One family of ORs, the Tufnells, has a deep connection with the sport.

Chris Tufnell (1982, G), Master of Beagles 1986-87

So much has changed with the RCB since I hunted them in the 1986/87 season. Clearly the hunting ban has changed the activities out in the field considerably, but the boys still manage to have fun, and all of the other changes have been hugely for the better.

In the 80s the hounds were kennelled in the old wooden barn at Church Farm. The place was riddled with skin disease, and we were frequently busy bathing the pack to treat mange and other infestations. The hounds were cared for by a glorious retired Royal Artillery Officer, Peter Coombes. He cared deeply for the hounds and boys alike, clucking around us all with his brilliantly florid language, delivered with a cut glass accent and addressing us all as “Old Boy”. Peter kept every hound that came his way, many of them drafts from other packs,

until their dying day and so it was fair to say that we didn’t have the finest hunting pack in the country. Simon Timbrell, Countryside Centre Manager, has gone to great efforts to improve the breeding of the pack, and this has been repaid in spades. The hounds now enjoy considerable success at the shows.

In the days before mobile phones and quad bikes, we enjoyed terrific freedom out hunting. Peter would roar around the roads in a light blue transit van, orange light flashing on top, but rarely ventured more than twenty yards from the van, leaving us to get on with it. Many days ended in the failing light, which could be challenging, as one boy found when he accidentally walked into a slurry pit and sank up to his arm pits! We hosed him down in the yard with much hilarity, but Peter refused to allow us to banish him to

▶ Nat Sherwood (1937, B) was a keen beagler, and kept a hunting diary throughout his time at Radley. It chronicles the earliest runs by the RC Beagles. Many of his detailed entries are supplemented by illustrations, photos, and cuttings from newspapers.

Hector Tufnell, current Master, exercising the RCB

the hound trailer for the return to College. By the time we got back for Chapel the atmosphere in the back of the van was somewhat fruity!

The pack moved into the new kennel block at Church Farm during my brother Mike’s season, 1988/89. Whilst these were an improvement, they weren’t a patch on the new kennels up beside Cheesers. To bring the pack into the heart of the College and embrace all things countryside under the auspices of The Countryside Centre has been a master stroke, and Simon really does provide a wide variety of rural entertainment at the Centre, including Squeaker, the pet muntjac deer!

There was no master-in-charge back in the 80s and, with Peter’s mild manner, we frequently had to battle to be noticed. As master-in-charge, with Simon and a succession of Masters, Tim Morris has dramatically raised the profile of the beagles in College, and I’m delighted that they enjoy as much support from the Warden now as they did under Dennis Silk.

I’ve continued to be closely associated with the pack as I’ve been lucky enough to be the vet for the RCB for over ten years now. I was therefore hugely proud when Hector became Master and Huntsman on 1st May 2022. We’re looking forward to an excellent season with the pack still flourishing and, so many boys continuing to enjoy all that school beagling has to offer.

Hector Tufnell, 6.2, Master of Beagles 2022-23

In 2018 the College built a new Countryside Centre, positioned just above the golf course, which became the new home for the Beagles. The kennels expanded hugely, and the Beagles are no

longer alone up there: the Countryside Centre currently has ferrets, pigs, sheep, chickens, turkeys, guinea fowl and even two tame muntjac deer.

Boys spend a lot of time at Kennels, especially during the summer term (outside the hunting season). We help with washing down, feeding, and, of course, walking out in order to keep our hounds in the best possible condition: this help us get to know them, and vice versa, so they will work for us during the hunting season. During the hunting season itself, September to March, we have a huge amount of fun even though we are careful to keep within the law. We hunt on Tuesdays and Saturdays up to the end of January, and from February 1st on Thursdays as well – our country has a lot of shoots so we have far more places to go after that date.

This season we hunted a total of 43 days, which is quite an achievement for a school pack; we owe a huge amount of thanks to our Kennel Huntsman Simon Timbrell for organising everything and to Dr Tim Morris for driving everyone all over the countryside to get to the meets. In October last year we had an amazing tour to Dartmoor where we hunted two days, one on Dartmoor and one on Exmoor, and followed the Dartmoor Foxhounds in between who are hunted by Harry Gosling OR, huntsman of the Radley College Beagles 2009-2011.

At the very end of the season, we headed down to Dorset and had the most amazing day’s hunting to celebrate Robbie Henderson OR’s stag do. Robbie hunted the Radley College Beagles in the 20062007 season, although he also had one day in the final season before the law changed

in 2005, as a Remove! Trail hunting with the Beagles is still very much unpredictable and we try and make it the closest it can be to the real thing, and we never seem to draw blank! We are very lucky to have so many supporters and lots of amazing farmers, gamekeepers and landowners who let us hunt trails across their land. We are also honoured to be invited to parade at the Royal Windsor Horse Show and had a great day this year, despite the warm weather.

Having a school pack is unusual: there are currently only three school packs left (Radley, Stowe and Eton), although Eton is struggling at the moment. Radley’s is, of course, without a doubt the best. With my grandfather (Wynne Tufnell, 1956, G, whipper-in 1956-59), uncle (Mike Tufnell, 1985, G, Master 1988-89) and father (Chris Tufnell, 1982, G, Master 1986-87) all hunting with Radley, it is great to know that it is still as much fun now as it was then and that not many things have changed. Many of our meets are even the same, which just goes to show how tight and supportive the local community is. Being able to hunt the Radley College Beagles is one of the most amazing things in my life so far, and will be something I treasure my whole life, and I highly recommend to any current or future Radley boys. I can assure you that you will not regret it. You are all very welcome to come and see us in action if you wish to do so: please do get in touch with Simon Timbrell.

The RCB in the 1950s

Radley Galleons

In light of the pandemic, the Galleons have been somewhat in a state of hibernation over the last few years. However, 2022 proved a much brighter year for OR Hockey and we were able to dust off our hockey sticks and get back out on the astro.

Despite our best efforts, Cheltenham Old Boys were the only team brave enough to take up our offer of a Winter friendly at Battersea Park. The match reflected just how absent hockey had been in our lives over the last few years with a distinct rustiness to our game. However, the team dug deep and managed to beat Cheltenham 3-1. There were some notable performances from the lads; James Cunningham with some wizardry stick skills at short corners, James Todd rolling back the years with some silky distribution in the middle, and a sturdy defensive performance from Max Labouchere.

12th March saw the return of an eagerly anticipated Galleons Day. With crisp sunny weather, the scene was set for a showdown against the Boys XI on the smart resurfaced Near Astro known as the “sandpit” back in the day. After a much-needed warm-up, the Galleons put in an impressive first-half performance against the Boys and netted two goals in quick succession. Credit to Louis Needham with some clinical finishing up front, and to Rufus Kleinwort with an energetic performance up the right channel.

Following a hearty team talk from Mr Hills and some tactical changes, the Boys headed into the second half eager to turn their fortunes around. It would have been wise for us Galleons to adopt a more defensive style of play for the second half, but instead we took the view that offence is the greatest form of defence. This ambitious tactic proved costly. The Boys, with fitness on their side, beat us countlessly on the break and quickly the score was 2-2. With this momentum, the Galleons were unable to keep out a determined Boys team and with ten minutes to go, they scored one final goal to complete a terrific comeback. After a match photo and a few beers in the New Pavillion, the Galleons headed back to London topping off a hugely enjoyable day out. We look forward to Galleons Day 2023 and taking on the Boys again!

2022 also marked the end of Charlie Goodwin’s time as heading up the Galleons. Thank you, Goody, for your years of hard work and dedication in this role – the Galleons is a much stronger unit for it. Looking ahead, we have big plans for the Galleons with an enlarged fixture list in the New Year at Battersea Park and a Galleons Day in which we’re looking to field two OR teams.

We are always on the lookout for new players, so if you are looking for more hockey in your life, do please shoot me an email.

Swift (2010, F), Captain of the Radley Galleons swifwd@gmail.com

Will

The Galleons and Boys XI teams at Galleons Day 2022

Radley Serpents

The Radley Serpents have made a resurgent comeback and are back in action! Two fixtures have been held this year: the first vs Marlborough Malones and the second vs Sherborne. Hopefully, there will be a more consistent schedule throughout the year with keen interest for some sevens and touch rugby.

Vs Marlborough Malones

Just like back on 22nd April 1977, when the world used optical fibre for telephone communications for the first time, an equally revolutionary event took place at Chiswick Rugby Club. The long dormant Radley Serpents took on a competitive Marlborough Old Boys’ side.

The appetite to play and attend was strong, and the evening was poised to be a promising affair. Having negotiated the intricacies of Barnes Bridge railway station and the last-minute preparation of buying gumshields in Sports Direct, the Radley side arrived, predictably, past the meet time. After trying to overcomplicate line outs and backs moves, confidence was high and after a few

inspirational words from RMCG and the referee (Nick Wood), the men were ready!

In a feat of physical performance normally reserved for the Olympiad, the Serpents started strongly and were unlucky to go behind early doors. A brace of tries from Hugo Eyre brought the sides level and the Serpents had the momentum. Mention must go to Hugo’s second try which he claims he intercepted within his own 22 before going the length. Throughout the night this distance kept getting longer until it became a 100m run in! Industrious performances from Charlie Saunders, Tom Oliver, Alex House, and Jude Wakely were some of the standout contributions.

In the second half cramp predictably started to kick in and, after pulling up with cramp and knowing he would need to sub back on in 10 minutes, Richard West started the recovery process with one of Chiswick’s finest lagers. In the last 5 minutes, the Serpents supersub (who will remain nameless as apparently the Proctor is still looking for him), was tempted out of his claret Schöffel and onto the pitch. He made an immediate impact in the loose with 2 crunching tackles before quickly calling to the bench.

The rugby was fast flowing, well contested and at times very entertaining. In the end Marlborough ran out winners 27-12 but a great time was had by all. After the final whistle, the real game began and unfortunately Radley were again defeated in the boat race. With the generous support of the OR society, food and refreshments were available in the clubhouse and it was great to catch up with old friends.

Vs Sherborne

During a period of reflection around the Commonwealth, Saturday 17th September (Old Radleian Day) proved to be a fantastic celebration. With an absolute belter of a Bigside pitch, and the presence of the late September sun, the only question was whether the champagne rugby would appear.

The Radley Serpents welcomed Sherborne Old Boys to Radley College for the Serpents first fixture on home soil for over a decade.

As the ORs assembled there was an abundance of memories and anticipation. With kick off fast approaching it all appeared to be coming together like a finely tuned orchestra. A rousing team talk delivered by RMCG ensured that we were ready to go.

The Serpents looked great from the off, with some excellent momentum through both the backs and forwards. We raced into the lead with excellent incisions from Alex House (2012, B), Paddy Langdale (2013, A), Milo Daly (2014, G), and Harry Ryan (2010, E). It must be noted that Jamie Farr (2012, H) had an excellent start to the game despite being AWOL for much of the warmup having enjoyed a spot of pre-match hospitality! With Charlie Saunders (2010, H) and George Marshall (2014, G) looking to exit the Serpents in 2022, Max Anderson (2012, J) decided that this was his moment. The ball was delivered to him on the short side and many presumed that he would carry steadfastly and create a platform. Alas, he did not! With an extravagant show and go he presumed to beat not one, but two defenders. Max fast found himself approaching the covering winger on the 50m mark and again through another dummy including a little hip wobble which sent the expectant supporters wild!

With the waiting full back having watched this carnage unfurl, we assumed the pace of Jasper Leadbeater (2010, F) would be utilised, as he had been hovering near Max, but no: ‘well, if it has worked twice, surely it will work a third time.’ Unfortunately, a knock on

ended this champagne burst. Sherborne struck back, but George Redmayne (2014, D) instantly provided a powerful burst from the restart, quelling any fears that the Serpents might be about to see their hard work undone. When the halftime whistle came, we were feeling buoyant. Robin Bridge (1997, D) and Angus Murray (1998, E) provided some wise words.

The second half started with Nick King (2017, E) and Ollie Mordaunt (2017, H) both all over the opposition. The Serpents extended their lead through a brace from House and another from Redmayne. Industrious performances across the line-up, and the continuous energy being added from the rotating reserves, saw us pull away to a commanding lead. Hugo Eyre (2012, F) decided this was his moment to shine and tried to lash the ball onto the tennis courts. He was so tired from his short run to collect it, he subbed himself off instantly. Conversely, the astute Charlie Saker (2011, F) had observed this and wasted not an ounce of energy on his attempt. Charlie gracefully clipped it just over the bar with a loud shout of ‘get in the hole’ from the gathering Red Army.

The game ended 36-17 to the Serpents, and this allowed for the real event to get underway. With both sides quickly off the pitch for the 1st XV warmups to begin, we raced through the showers and up to Old Pavilion. After the 1st XV game both the Old Boys and the current teams headed back to the Pavilion to enjoy some excellent Radley hospitality and to share experiences of the day. We then attend the JCR and OR Dinner in Hall, with reports of multiple refreshments enjoyed! A massive thank you must go out to all of those involved in organising the day from both the Radleian Society office and the Sherborne side for coming. A special mention goes to Nick Wood who refereed the fixture, and RMCG for arranging all the practicalities of the day. Finally thank you to all who turned up either as a player or supporter, we look forward to welcoming you to future events.

The Serpents will be looking to use this momentum and continue to grow! Please keep an eye out for future events. We encourage ORs to reach out to us on the details below, as we would always welcome any involvement. Anyone in the OR network that might be able to assist with kit and other resources would be greatly appreciated!

James Cunningham (2012, G), Chairman of the Radley Serpents james.cunningham1998@outlook.com

Hugo Eyre (2012, F) Captain and Secretary of the Radley Serpents hugoeyre173@outlook.com

Radley Keys

The 21/22 season saw the Old Radleians FC, or “the Keys” as they are often being referred to in the modern era, undergo a period of complete transformation with several of the older members of the club increasingly becoming embroiled in weddings, buying dogs, applying for mortgages, injuries, and extended periods of absences abroad (George Mitchard is allegedly still yet to return from his warm winter training). The club could not rely solely on these familiar faces, as they had done in seasons past. No longer could Henry “Tyler” Taylour lead the warmups. Gone were the days of Will Haynes taking freekicks (none yet scored). And, lest we forget, the ever-present post-match sentiments of Rory MacInnes who picked up Clubman three times in as many years, and famously coined the Keys motto: “Snakes on pitch; doves in pub” (2017). So, it was in the summer of 2021 that Cameron Barrie and Alex Kelly went on a voyage of recruitment to bring some fresh faces into the fold.

The first game was a good one. Charterhouse are a top footballing school and, although we were playing their IIs side, they can often be a fierce opponent. We hosted them at our ground (“Fortress Whitton” as it is so often referred to by our opponents in the league) and played some lovely stuff, with veteran George Mitchard scoring both the goals in a deserved victory for the Keys. In his 10th season, Mitch continues to show, week in week out, that he can score a goal about every five games. Also notable was Thor Winkler who showed everyone why he will be a constant in the side for years to come, picking up the Man of the Match award.

Everything seemed to be looking up from this first performance but, due to a series of injuries and significant lack of availability, results started to fall by the wayside as the club lost six league games in a row. The Keys were bottom of Division 2 heading into December with just 3 points. It seemed a near impossible task for the club to remain afloat. But, in the face of adversity, we came together to turn the season entirely on its head.

With the introduction of several new players to the squad we were, remarkably, able to win six of the next seven league games. Tom Rutherford, Freddie White and Max Richardson all came into the side and made a huge impact, particularly on our abilities going forward and abetting a push for us to play more attacking and attractive football. We dare not say it too loud, but might the continental brand of the Henry Mills and Ed Hodgson era be returning?

Of these six wins, there are certain ones that will live long in the memory, the first one being the home game against Eton IIs. Having beaten us 9–0 in the away leg, there was a feeling of vengeance amongst the squad. It paid dividends, as we secured a 4–2 win with goals from Wilfred Marriot (x2), Andrew Barrie, and right back for the day Jack Trowbridge. Jack was so impressed with his goal that he even called a meeting after the game to announce that he should now be referred to as the “Camberwell Cafu”. So, if anyone bumps into him can we please ask that you respect his requests (although he did concede that the “Shropshire Cafu” would also be fine).

It could have been the perfect day had we not lost Cam Barrie to a horrific injury sustained from contesting a corner. Following a trip to A&E, and subsequent scans, it was discovered that the skipper had fractured his femur, dislocated his kneecap and, if that wasn’t bad enough, ruptured his MCL as well. This was a huge blow to the team, and Cam was out for the remainder of the season. Alex Kelly took charge for the last eight games.

Of the other victories, the 5–4 win over Harrow IIs was another big one, which helped us build momentum and, crucially, points. Special mention must go to Keys stalwart Gus Lowe who wrote himself into OR folklore, netting four of the five in what must be his best ever game wearing the shirt (with two of these coming from outside the box).

The Radley Keys playing the Old Reptonians team

Andrew Sweerts receiving the first ever Rolt Cup for player of the season. ▶ Clockwise from top left: Tom Nokes, Harry Swift, Cameron Barrie, Andrew Barrie, Alex Kelly, Andrew Sweerts, Os Miller, Archie Hewlett, Freddie White, Tom Rutherford and James Sloan.

Other games of note were the wins over Merchant Taylors (3–1) and Dulwich IIs (1–0). In the Merchant Taylors match we were 1–1 in the 80th minute, and Jamie Heinrich found himself totally out of position in the middle of the park. Looking like a rabbit in headlights, and with the ball bobbling up to him 35 yards out, as Kelly was screaming out for him not shoot, Heiners unleashed a half volley that went rifling into the top left corner. Bedlam at Whitton and the win secured. For his efforts, he picked up goal of the season; time will tell whether he picks up goal of the century.

With five games left of the season, the Keys found themselves in the quite precarious situation of being able to be both promoted and relegated. Following on from a series of tight games (2–1 defeat to Johnians, 1–1 with Sennockians, and marginally losing out to Chigwell IIs 2–1), the season finished with us being just three points off promotion. The Keys were painstakingly close to moving into Division 1, but alas it was not meant to be. However, if the final ten games are anything to go by, the club sees itself in with a great chance of promotion next season.

The end of season awards are as follows:

Jamie Heinrich: Goal of the Season

Archie Hewlett: Golden Boot

James Sloan: Young Player of the Year

Andy Sweerts: Clubman and Player of the Season

Our keeps Andy was truly deserving of both accolades and illustrated how valuable a player he is in the Radley machine. For this year’s player of the season award, we were also very pleased to unveil a new inaugural trophy: The Rolt Cup. This was named after our founder Mike Rolt who set up the club in 2005. It was recently announced that Cam Barrie was stepping down as captain after three years at the helm. We would like to thank him hugely for everything he has done; he has lived and breathed the Keys and deserves enormous credit for his unfaltering dedication. In his place, Alex Kelly will take over as captain for the upcoming season.

All games will now be filmed, and a highlights reel will be posted to our Instagram page each week. Please give us a follow at: oldradleiansfc. If any ORs are keen to join the Keys, please reach out to either alexandercikelly@gmail.com or oldradleiansfc@outlook.com

Alex Kelly (2007, F/K), Captain of the Radley Keys

Old Radleian Golfing Society 2022

2022 appears to have been a catch-up year for many Old Radleian Golfers. Golf has taken off – clubs are very busy with visitors. Despite the last two years, the ORGS is in very good heart. Our Spring (April) and Autumn (October) Meetings at The Berkshire and Royal St George’s respectively, are both well supported and most enjoyable days. There is always room for more players.

Life returned to normal in the Halford Hewitt with the team returning to our normal lodgings on the Fox Pitt’s estate at Knowlton. The only change to our young team was Alex Beare (2012, K), who came in for Freddie Horler (2014, B) who was unavailable for the trials. We were narrowly beaten by Tonbridge in the semi-finals.

Our President wrote in his annual report, “It was a most encouraging week with all players producing some very good golf but occasionally some frustrating mistakes being made which prevented us from maintaining the initiative gained in some of the games. In the final, Tonbridge were soundly beaten by Loretto, winning for the second consecutive year, and having never achieved more than one losing final back in 1973. Their enormous investment in their world-renowned Golf Academy is paying dividends and although the game of foursomes is a great leveller, all other schools will have to look to their laurels. Radley needs to start by making better use of their own facilities at College and have meaningful encouragement for our great game from the staff.”

Our other representative events, the Grafton Morrish, the Bernard and Senior Darwin were not so successful. We failed to qualify for the Grafton Morrish finals in October. We survived one round of the Senior Darwin but fell in the first round of the Bernard Darwin. We entered two pairs for the veterans Darwin. Michael Kfouri (1952, D) with Christopher Ball (1958, A), (2nd with 27 points) and Richard Palmer (1956, D) and Christopher Clarke (1958, F) (we are not convinced that pairing has a great future!).

Our annual knock out tournament, the Robin Turner continues to be well supported and runs through the year. This is a great opportunity to go and play some of our great courses and be entertained by your opponent. Congratulations to Jeremy Meyer (1983, C) the current holder of the Robin Turner, who beat Toby Denne (1974, A) in the final at Blackwell.

The Society would like to express its thanks to our outgoing Captain Harry Douglass (1992, D). With Hewitt 2020 cancelled, Harry, a Hewitt team member, stayed on a year to captain a Hewitt side very successfully. We welcome Tim Rowntree (1971, B) our new Captain for 2022 and 2023. I would like to add my personal thanks to our match managers and our President, Richard Palmer (1956, D). They are the people who keep the society in such good spirits. I would like to hear from any OR who could help in the administration of the ORGS at any level.

Finally, we have struggled to fill sides for our other society fixtures. OR diaries seem to have been filled up in 2022 with cancelled events from the Covid years. We look forward to 2023 with hope, and a request for more support particularly from the younger members. The ORGS offers generous subsidies to anyone wanting to play in our matches and meetings. No one should be prevented from participating in our matches due to cost.

There are over 250 members of the ORGS. If you would like to join us, please log onto www.orgs.org.uk and register. Go to the fixture list and ‘APPLY’. Everyone is most welcome!

William Bailey (1968, D) Honorary Secretary

▶ Tim Rowntree (1971, B) in trouble again!

SENIOR DARWIN by Duncan Ritchie (1964, C)

We had a slightly changed team from the normal Senior Darwin stalwarts, many of whom were on other duties. We welcomed Francis Murray and Nick Jenkins to the group, and they serve to enhance the goodwill and spirit of the Radley team.

Our first opponents, Marlborough, kindly handed us a point, by being short of 2 of their players, so we sailed through to the second round thanks to the wisdom and expertise of Christopher Ball and Michael Kfouri. Our next opponents were Uppingham, who went on to win the whole competition, so, suffice it to say we were rather outplayed!

As time moves on, the standard gets higher, and if we are to have a chance of ending up in the winners’ enclosure, our best eligible team needs to be present. As always, it was a friendly and enjoyable reunion of Old Radleians who got to know each other after many years!

BERNARD DARWIN by Angus Chilvers (1979, F)

The Bernard Darwin is a scratch foursomes knockout competition with 16 public schools, each fielding three pairs of golfers aged over 55. The Radley team included James Male making his debut in an ORGS scratch team. James was paired with Will Bailey in an all-Berkshire affair. Angus Chilvers and Anthony Gammon reprised their 2021 partnership. The final pair was Simon Curtis and John Saville, who also played in 2021.

Radley drew Repton in the first round. Chilvers & Gammon started strongly over the first six holes without converting strong striking into a lead. When they lost the tough seventh hole, Chilvers going left off the tee into deep cabbage, this triggered a landslide of lost holes and Radley ended up shaking hands 5&4. The second pair, Curtis & Saville, had a very close encounter up to the 14th, never more than a hole in it. Repton then took the next two holes to win by 3&2. Bailey & Male were all square on the 15th green at this point and, with the rubber dead, agreed a half. In the Plate competition, Radley came second to Charterhouse. In the main event, Repton lost in the second round to the ultimate tournament winners, Malvern.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS PUTTING COMPETITION AT ROYAL WIMBLEDON by Angus Chilvers (1979, F) Radley’s four-man team for the Putting Competition featured Will Ford making his debut appearance for the ORGS, joined by the regular flat stick merchants Andrew Marshall, Simon Curtis and Angus Chilvers. The Radley four assembled at 6pm, each with putter and ball, together with seven other teams – except that Stowe failed to field a side. This meant the threat of coming last and being relegated from the competition for three years was removed. Free of this pressure, Radley putted well, with Will Ford coming solo second on the night, and we ended up in third place on the evening: not quite good enough to secure a top two finish which would have meant progressing to the Finals the following week, but respectable enough.

Results from matches Results from meetings

• ORGS v Old Haileyburians: Lost 5 / 4

• ORGS v Radley College: Won 3 / 0

• ORGS v Old Canfordians: Lost 3 / 0

• ORGS v Royal Ashdown Forest: Lost 4 / 3

• ORGS v Lancing: Won 5 / 3

There is one shot worth mentioning this year. One of our opponents in the Lancing fixture hit a high shank with a rescue club off the first tee. The ball took a sharp turn to the right through the members sitting on the terrace having coffee, through the clubhouse window and ended up by the bar. OB!

SPRING MEETING - The Berkshire 19th April 2022

TROPHY

COMPETITION WINNER

David Turner Scratch Cup Scratch Trophy Harry Douglass 73 gross Charles Jeffreys Silver Bowl Handicap Trophy Simon Stalder 36 points

The Bruce Cup Under 35 handicap Rupert Ashby 38 points J H Mobbs Salver Veterans Robert Finlayson 37 points Paul Cooper Cup Past Captains Christopher Clarke 36 points Foursomes PM Andrew Strong & Michael Kfouri 35 points

AUTUMN MEETING - Royal St Georges 3rd October 2022

TROPHY COMPETITION WINNER

Scratch cup presented by Mrs CNT Jefffreys

Scratch Trophy Simon Peck 72 Alex Wright 74 Handicap Trophy Aidan Lisser 43 points

William Bailey 42 points

Simon Peck 41 points Under 35 handicap Alex Wright 38 points

George Burrows 37 points

Ken Bristow Memorial Trophy Veterans Aidan Lisser 43 points William Bailey 42 points

James Rogers Memorial Trophy

Foursomes PM Peter Eaton & Alex Wright 37 points Tim Rowntree & Aidan Lisser 34 point

Radley Rangers

Rangers v Oundle

Another beautiful day at Radley on a perfect deck with a mixture of Old Timers, Rangers “Youff” and four lads from 6.1 who stepped in to give us some quality and energy in the field. Oundle were invited to bat first and Jonty Robinson (2012, K), opening up from the School End, was soon into his stride with a nagging length and a bit of movement that brought some excitement to a classic “two slips and a gulley” field.

I was delighted that when asking the 6.1 lads what they did, we managed to break through the initial Radley modesty to tease out of Rollo (F Social) that he, in fact, opened both the batting and the bowling for Bigside! A slip of a lad with a big ticker, he came charging in from Secondside and immediately had some very good “batters” in trouble with some extra bounce and a very good line.

Then it happened. A Rangers slip catch. One of those rare cricketing events that will be passed down the generations. Having seen a bit of a nibble outside stump, we moved Luke Perkins (2010, E) to 3rd slip who took a terrific catch, low to his left. Jubilant scenes! Rollo followed up with a clever slower ball to dismiss the other opener and then it happened again … This time an off stump slash was well parried by Will Gubbins (2003, H) at 2nd and, quick as lightning, Luke dived at his feet to snaffle it. Oundle were reeling at 59–3. A run out / stumping would have made it 4 but a close call went against us. Jonty continued to tease and at one point we had 4 slips, deep backward square and a third man which I don’t think I have ever witnessed before on a Rangers field.

Jack (E Social) replaced Rollo and bowled an impressive 9 over spell of off spin, conceding only 30 runs, and was unlucky not to get a caught behind. Mungo Fawcett (2010, B), ragging it sideways, also bowled excellently and, realising that his skipper was half asleep after a long drive from Suffolk, called Luke back into first slip and the very next ball he had his THIRD slip catch of the game! That HAS to be a record?!

posted a more than respectable 268–5 off their 45 overs. To a man, the Rangers were magnificent in the field, taking inspiration from some very sharp work behind the stumps by Rory (F Social) who informed me that despite not having the gloves for Bigside he is in fact the better keeper in the family. I suspect big brother must be on the fringes of England if he can keep Rory out!

Chat over lunch largely revolved around the “Good Old Days” of cheese and port to round off a slap-up feed, but the Waitrose delivery was eventually discovered in the fridge and served its purpose.

Will G and Luke “Buckets” Perkins opened up for us against some very tidy opening bowlers and looked well set to push on before Luke was the first of three to fall in quick succession to some very impressive left arm swing / seam bowling. Will dug in admirably but I am sure the lads won’t mind me saying that the batting didn’t quite live up to expectations after such a great bowling display, perhaps with the exception of Rollo whose “never-say-die”, swashbuckling approach lifted the spirits as he biffed his way to 28. I suspect that had Wags been there he might have been disappointed, but not surprised by another Rangers batting collapse.

Losing to the Cricketer Cup finalists from 2021 is no disgrace. They put out another very strong side having been run close by the Rangers last year. It would be great to put more of our Cricketer Cup players through their paces against them next year as a warmup for the first round, as originally intended for this fixture. Thanks to all those who played, particularly the 6.1 crew who gave up a day’s revision ahead of important exams to step up for the club.

Ramblers v Rangers

After the success of last year’s fixture, it was not a surprise that the Rangers and Ramblers were back, for what now is progressing into an annual fixture. The Captains’ over ambitious start time of 11 am (to accommodate the FA Cup final) proved a struggle for Radleians and Etonians alike, and it certainly was not a toss to lose. After Ramblers Captain, Nick Harrington, won the toss they rightly elected to bat, on what was promising to be a brilliant day for cricket!

The Rangers (at least those that had arrived on time) proceeded onto the field, this year with the upgrade of sight-screens! Jonty Robinson and skipper Jack Folkestone (2012, E) opened the bowling and Jonty rolled back the years, bounding in and quickly reducing the Ramblers to 35-3. Nick Harrison and Barnaby Harrison combined a gritty partnership to frustrate the Rangers. With Jonty churning the overs on one end, the Rangers looked for a bowler to keep the other end down. George Marshall bowled an excellent spell taking the vital wicket of Finn O’Brian. Ramblers’ skipper Nick Harrington steered a gritty 71 and the Rangers were looking for solutions with Jack chucking the ball to whoever would take it. Rupert Grace (2006, J) bowled a beautiful spell to trouble the Ramblers. However, an inspired George Greville Williams (2012, K) showed the spinners up bamboozling the Ramblers and took a vital 3fer, and the visitors were 168-7 before lunch.

After lunch, the Rangers took to the field pizza slices in hand to finish off the Ramblers innings. Jonty Robinson had a spring in his step off the short run and finished the Ramblers innings in fine fashion with 5 wickets. The Rangers were to chase 200 to win, on what looked like a slow and low wicket. The openers Sam Hoddinott

Will Gubbins and Jamie “Bunsen Burner” Turner (1987, B) bowled well against some very strong batting as Oundle recovered and

(2012, B) and Rupert Grace strode in with a big task at hand. The Ramblers held a tight ship with Jamie Pleydell-Bouverie and Ed Fenwich bowling particularly uncomfortable opening spells for the Rangers’ batsmen with the openers gone and an all too familiar batting collapse in sight. George Greville Williams batted well until getting another jaffer, and skipper Jack Folkestone deceived by a slower ball full toss. The Rangers just about made it till tea at 60-7 but after a couple of sandwiches and slices of cake, not even Ollie Martyn-Hemphill (2012, F) or Jonty Robinson could see out the innings. The Rangers all out for 87 and outclassed by a very accomplished Eton side, who very gladly could go and watch their beloved Chelsea lose in the FA Cup Final.

Although hurt by the defeat, the Rangers will roll onto the Longford fixture next year! Another brilliant day out for all involved and the Rangers will be back with a vengeance next season!

Rangers v MCC

After several last-minute changes due to injuries, the Rangers recruited their final player the morning of the match against a strong MCC side.

The MCC won the toss and elected to bat. It looked a bad toss to lose with no cloud cover to assist the bowlers. Jonty Robinson and Angus Oliver (2009, A) bowled well up top. Both openers edging to keeper and first slip, Kit Morland (2011, D) showed his acrobatic skills taking a diving catch. Hugo Eyre (2012, F) and Tom Oliver (2011, A) continued to apply the pressure with Tom taking a wicket with his first ball. The spin twins Jamie Dalrymple (1994, H) and Kit Morland both toiled away for ten overs each. Jamie finished with three wickets for 15. Fresh from Istanbul and on his Rangers debut Freddie Grant (2012, H) took a wicket with his first ball. Jonty and Angus then finished off the tail. The MCC were all out for 184.

There was a quiet confidence from the Rangers over lunch as Harry Purton (2014, H) and Belusconi strode to the crease. Jamie Farr had to come in earlier than planned and hit a couple of nice shots before departing. Jamie Dalrymple and Harry Purton steadied the ship getting us to 83-2 before Jamie was caught at mid-off. MartynHemphill and Purton then battled until drinks with the score 120-3. Purton reaching his first Rangers fifty, including an extravagant reverse sweep over point. Kit Morland came to the crease after Purton was bowled just after drinks and struck some big blows. It looked as though Rangers were in the ascendancy however MartynHemphill was caught at mid-off and Morland was bowled soon after with the scores now 154-6. The game was as exciting as the final

day of the premier league. It came down to the final over with the Rangers needing 8 to win 7 wickets down. After some tidy bowling we needed 6 to win off the final 2 balls. Freddie Grant came to the crease for his first ball as a Ranger and sadly that was his only ball. It was now down to Hugo Eyre to hit the winning six … unfortunately he did not manage to connect. The Rangers lost by 5 runs to an experienced MCC side. Hopefully next year we will get over the line.

Hurlingham v Rangers

The Rangers won the toss and elected to bat without a cloud in the sky. The Hurlingham outfield looked particularly fast after the croquet matches on the outfield earlier in the week. Betley and Folkestone made the most of conditions racing to 42 before Folkestone was out lbw. Brooke and Weldon came and went quickly as Betley continued to motor along. Williams then pleased the crowd with three bombs before departing for 35. Robinson came in and accumulated until lunch. Unfortunately, Betley was caught on the boundary on 90 on the stroke of lunch, leaving us 182-5.

Eden came and went briefly after lunch before Greville Williams fell to a Purton Yorker. Martyn-Hemphill joined Robinson with the score 229-7. The partnership developed well with Robinson reaching 50. The boundaries continued to flow with Robinson hitting two big sixes. The Rangers declared on 303-7 from 43 overs with Robinson on 77* and Martyn-Hemphill 33*.

Eden and Ned Greville Williams opened the bowling with great accuracy. The Hurlingham were struggling at 36-4 just after tea. It could have been even better had a slip catch been taken … George Greville Williams came into the attack and produced chances. Unfortunately, the fielders put down two more catches off his bowling before one was snatched at mid-off. The score was now 116-5 and the Rangers were in the box seat. However, their number three took a fancy to Greville Williams hitting four big sixes.

A double dropped catch as the keeper dropped it and MartynHemphill dropped the rebound at slip damaged team morale. The game was beginning to slip away. Robinson took a vital wicket and Fleming threatening at the other end. Sadly, another dropped catch prevented Fleming from being in the wickets column. The Hurlingham were 217-6 with 4 overs to go but only ten batsman due to an injury. Two wickets from low full tosses meant the Rangers had six balls to take the final wicket. Unfortunately, Eden could not find the decisive wicket and the Hurlingham ended 224-8. Eden and Ned Greville Williams both ended up with 3-34 but sadly it wasn’t enough to get the Rangers over the line.

The draw was tough to take after the Hurlingham number 3 who was dropped three times made a match saving 110*. That didn’t stop the celebrations into the night. Hopefully we will secure the win next year and improve our catching!

I would like to convey my huge thanks to Michael Barnett who is hanging up his pen after nearly 30 years of scoring for the Radley Rangers. Michael has always kept the books in immaculate order and has been a wonderful part of the club since well before many current players were even born. We very much hope we will be able to welcome him back to Bigside in the coming years as a spectator.

Johnny Wright, President of Radley Rangers C.C.

Obituaries

DAVID BRIDGFORD (college accountant 1995 – 2005)

It was with great sadness that we learnt of David’s death on 17th March 2022 at the age of only 68. David was the College’s Accountant from 1995 to his retirement in 2005 – although his retirement lasted only 4 days before he started work part-time at The Manor. David continued to work at The Manor until his illness made it too difficult to continue. David’s funeral was on 12th April 2022 and amongst the many kind words that were said, some of the most common were kind, thoughtful and gentle. David was a true gentle man. If I could use a few words from a poem that was read out at the funeral –

I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend. He referred to the dates on his casket from beginning to the end.

He noted that first came the date of his birth and spoke of the following date with tears, but he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.

The dash in David’s life was full. His two children and grandson brought him great joy and one of David’s best holidays was with his daughter, Laura, to Iceland. David also had a love of motorbikes which started when he was young and he enjoyed many wonderful trips abroad. David’s downfall was cake – he had such a sweet tooth and would forfeit something savoury for a slice of cake any day of the week. He also had a huge love of walking and spent much of his time away from the office in the Lake District (in particular, Betty’s Tea Rooms) and we all looked forward to the gingerbread he brought back with him!

As well as meticulous (he was the College Accountant after all!), David was kind, good natured and a fabulous listener. It took an awful lot for him to become cross about something (or someone!). If you were looking for someone for a sound board, David would be your man.

We missed him when he retired and miss him more now we can’t see him.

GARY MILLER (regimental sergeant major 1998-2009)

Written by Richard Pollard, Common Room 1970-2008

It was with great sadness that we heard of Gary’s untimely death. He contributed to many areas of College life and his

sociability meant that he made close friends across the campus.

When Jim Pettifar retired after 30 years as RSM it was a challenge to find someone with the right skills to fill his shoes. There were many applicants but a recommendation from Major Ingram, school liaison officer for the Army Air Corps, led us to interview Gary. Both metaphorically and literally he stood head and shoulders above all other candidates. His interview with Richard Morgan was spent mostly talking rugby and even though Gary was a passionate supporter of Scotland, Richard said that he was the man for the job and agreed that he had a commanding presence, something that was evident throughout his time at Radley. His wide military experience provided the expertise for the job.

Gary spent 22 years in the Army, starting his training with the Junior Leaders Regiment RAC in 1976. His original intention was to join the Royal Military Police but shortly before pass off in December 1977 he decided to transfer to the Army Air Corps. He served in Bunde, Hildersham and Soest West Germany, Hong Kong, Northern Ireland, and England. His successful career took him to WO2 in 1990 and as Squadron Sergeant Major when 661 sqn went to the Gulf War. A friend from his early training days says that “he was respected by all who served with him both above and below in rank. His attention to looking after his men in the Gulf War was second to none and to this day his men talk about what a great

SSM he was. They talk of how he could be a strict man but also a very fair man and they knew if they dropped the ball he would defend them staunchly but would also be the disciplinarian if that was what was required.”

Dealing with soldiers was one thing, dealing with stroppy teenage boys was another but Gary adapted very quickly and this same approach meant that he commanded respect from the boys. His commitment to high standards of discipline and behaviour meant that they knew exactly where they stood, that he would not stand for any nonsense and would always get at the truth if anyone prevaricated – most would not dare. He was particularly good at dealing with those boys who always seemed to be in trouble, one or two of whom might well have been expelled had they not been guided by Gary.

From the outset he was meticulous in organising the CCF stores, maintaining weapons and running the armoury.

Training activities included drill, military tactics and weapon handling and all were carried out with precision and good humour. His skills as a drill sergeant were evident when the boys paraded smartly for Inspection Days and Remembrance Sunday. He provided valuable support on CCF camps. He enjoyed the Adventure Training in Snowdonia and the Lake District where his good humour prevailed except when heavy rain threatened to swamp his tent. He never quite understood why some of us enjoyed being

David Bridgford

Gary Miller

under canvas for a week in March rather than in a hutted camp. Nevertheless, he appreciated that challenging boys and taking them out of their comfort zone enabled them to achieve more than expected in areas not normally experienced back in College. This was very evident in what Gary accomplished with a group of 40 to 50 Remove boys on CCF Central Camps. Very quickly he would have them looking smart, drilling well, motivated to work together as a team and often becoming one of the best Contingents on camp. He was always particularly pleased when they won some of the inter-contingent competitions; the boys responded well to the pressure he put them under.

With so much to offer, it was no surprise that he was keen to be involved in other areas of College life. Becoming a livein sub-tutor in A social, he and Marie provided a constant source of order, hospitality and friendliness. He supported the JCR, where his natural authority and sociability helped to keep everything running smoothly. After coaching Colts 3 Rugby with success he moved on to being a referee and was greatly valued for his fairness and knowledge of the game. The new role of Proctor was organised around him and in this he helped to maintain the overall discipline and behaviour of boys around College.

He and Marie left Radley in 2009 for a new life in Germany but sadly their marriage did not survive the move. Gary returned to Scotland to work as a Prison Officer in a Young Offenders Prison, and then as a Youth Justice Support worker where he was involved in steering youngsters away from a possible life in prison.

On retirement in 2019 he took on a small holding in Scotland but very sadly he developed a brain tumour in 2021. Unfortunately, a seven month period of treatment was not successful and he passed away on New Year’s Eve. He leaves behind his two daughters Gemma and Lee-Ann, his new partner Lorna and his best pal Daxx the Labrador.

PARRY-CROOKE, MB (1938, C) Michael went to Radley in 1938, in the footsteps of his elder brother David, and his father Charles, who had started at the school in 1911. A talented sportsman, Michael played in the cricket 1st XI for

two years. He continued to play a lot of sport when he went up to Cambridge in 1944 to study modern languages. Alongside his evident passion for cricket he won a Blue at hockey.

This sporting success came despite an eye injury suffered in an accident at Radley which left him with very little sight in one eye, even after months of treatment on leaving school. He had taken up golf as a boy at Bungay in Suffolk, and went on to play until his late seventies. Not long before his death at the age of 96 he remarked that when he couldn’t sleep he liked to entertain himself by re-living the three “holes-in-one” of his career.

In the late 1940s, after university, Michael taught for a while at Eton College, before deciding to become a fruit farmer. He spent time learning the rudiments at a farm in Essex. And he then returned to Suffolk, where he spent the rest of his long life. He bought an established but somewhat neglected farm north of Framlingham, and moved there in 1954 with his new wife Gillian. They had two sons. He farmed there for almost 40 years.

The orchards were immaculate, and he played a leading role in one of the cooperatives which processed and marketed apples from the dozens of fruit farms which at the time peppered Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk.

Just as his standards on the farm were high, they were too, quietly, in life. A friend wrote of him recently that he was “a person of absolute integrity, unshakeable

in his values”. He was also supremely modest, kind, courteous, considerate, and thoughtful. Outside of Suffolk, he was an unlikely but dedicated participant in a City livery company, the Tylers and Bricklayers. He and his brother each served as Master in the 1970s.

Michael was married secondly, in 1979, to Marie, a widowed fellow Suffolk fruit farmer; for a while they operated both their farms, before retirement.

Some years after her death he finally decided in his nineties to go into a home nearby run by an agricultural charity. He remained in remarkable health, well in tune with events of the day; interested and proud of his family including four grandchildren.

Michael Bagot Parry-Crooke, born 16th November 1924, died 30th July 30th 2021, aged 96.

MILES-MARSH, DG (1939, E)

Donald was born in Bolton Lancashire and attended Mostyn House prep school before going on to Radley in September 1939. He was a keen sportsman playing cricket for the 2nd XI and rugby for the 1st and 2nd XV. He also represented E Social (Hope’s), at squash, hockey and fives.

He left Radley in 1944 and gained a commission with the Coldstream Guards, becoming a company commander in Palestine in 1945. His aptitude at shooting led to his selection for the army team where he was particularly proficient with the submachine gun. He later became Chief Instructor at the Small Arms Wing, School of Infantry and later at the Defence Nuclear, Biological and Chemical School at Westbourne Gunner.

He retired from the army in 1967 to focus on running a poultry farm, before entering the charity field as an appeal consultant helping to set up charity committees along with fundraising. In this role he was involved with a number of charities including the Wishing Well Appeal at Great Ormond Street Hospital, Katharine House Hospice for children, London College of Music and the Guards Museum at Wellington Barracks.

At the age of 67 whilst involved with the children’s hospital at Alder Hey, Donald was forced to retire with ill health. He

Michael Bagot Parry-Crooke

found this sudden change very difficult as his great interest in life had always been helping the numerous charities and meeting the variety of people connected with them. Donald and his late wife enjoyed many family occasions over the years including their Golden Wedding anniversary.

Major Donald George Miles-Marsh passed away peacefully at the age of 96 and is survived by two daughters and a son.

WALLERS, AL (1939, G)

Anthony was a prefect at Radley in 1943 and, according to his son Julian, was a proud Old Radleian who always spoke very highly of the school and of his time here.

After leaving Radley he went up to Trinity College, Oxford, to read History. He became Director of WFDA Underwriting Ltd and was married in 1951 to Palola Francesca.

Anthony enjoyed attending reunion events and Old Radleian Dinners.

Anthony Ledward Wallers died on 13th December 2021 at the age of 96.

HORROCKS, MW (1941, A)

Martin Warner Horrocks was born in 1928 to farming parents who lived in Wheatley near Retford, Notts. His younger brother, Oliver, was two years younger and currently lives in Cheshire. Both boys attended prep school at Maidwell Hall, Northamptonshire.

In 1939, at the age of 11, Martin continued his education at Radley College, Oxfordshire. Its schoolboy population largely consisted of the offspring of the professional classes and politicians; a farmer’s son was the exception, and he was christened “Mudwash” by his contemporaries. When Oliver arrived, Martin became “Mudwash 1” and the newly arrived Horrocks “Mudwash 2”. Martin enjoyed life at Radley, he was involved in most sports, especially Rugby. He showed a great interest in the College beagles, caring for them and accommodating them outside of term time.

After completing his education at Radley College, Martin was conscripted into the Army in 1946. He served in Palestine during the later stages of the Jewish

Insurgency, and in Persia and Cyprus: he said that his most notable contribution to Army life was being responsible for the guard of honour for the Shah of Persia.

Following demobilisation, he returned home to take up farming and gained employment on a farm close to his parents’ holding. In 1952, with experience under his belt, he obtained tenancy for Crooksford Farm, Elkesley, Notts. There he lived with the Bell family and their three daughters.

In 1962, Martin increased the area of land under his stewardship by taking up the tenancy of Manor Farm Elkesley, he and his surrogate family moved into new accommodation in the village. He became a keen member of Elkesley Parish Council and Retford Rural District Council where he stood as an Independent Councillor: he became Chairman for the RDC in the 1960s.

For recreation, he played rugby for Worksop Rugby Club into his late 30s. In the early 1970s, after he stopped playing rugby, Martin took up horse riding and became involved with the Grove and Rufford Hunt, essentially for the rest of his life. Only 2 weeks before his death he’d attended a meet, although not on horseback!

As his farm workforce began to retire and he himself approached retirement age in the mid-1980s, Martin decided that his relatively large holdings could be better managed on a partnership basis with

others taking over day to day operations. Relieved of daily farm management duties he had the time to pursue his interest in antique artworks and books related principally to hunting. He also had the opportunity to spend more time following the Grove and Rufford Hunt.

In his 70s he developed a close relationship with an acquaintance from his teenage years, Margaret Morrell, who had been widowed a few years previously. They were to spend 18 years enjoying each other’s company until Margaret passed away in November 2021. The last couple of years of his life, he was cared for by one of the Bell’s daughters, Eleanor. Martin was a great character and will be sadly missed.

CAVE, WS (1943, F)

Willy Cave, who has died aged 95, was a television broadcaster, rally car navigator and pilot who pioneered early outdoor broadcasting at the BBC and was a veteran of over sixty Monte Carlo, Alpine and RAC car rallies.

William Sturmy Cave, born in Westminster on 29th January 1927 to William Sturmy Cave Senior and Lorna Cave (nee Wishart and later Burmann) grew up in Eversley Cross, Hampshire, with one sister, Susan, and later with his mother and stepfather, Walter Burmann, in Coleshill, Bucks. Married and divorced twice, first to Julia Cave in 1958 and later to Sam Pease in 1971, he often joked that he was the most eligible bachelor in Barnes despite his advancing years, until his death on 13th March 2022.

Returning from wartime evacuation in Canada - his oft-told anecdote of the time he ‘went on a cruise with Elizabeth Taylor’ - Willy attended Radley College and then went up to Trinity College, Oxford, to read Engineering Science, where he restarted the Oxford University ski team and flew Tiger Moths at Abingdon in his spare time. After graduating, he was called up for National Service, gaining his Wings flying Harvards in 1949 and winning the RAF ski championship in 1950. As a member of the RAF Volunteer Reserve, he went on to fly Spitfires before moving on to early Meteor and Vampire jets. An avid air enthusiast to the last and naturally thrifty, in his early 90s he negotiated a discount to fly himself on a sightseeing tour around his beloved Courchevel ski resort and was never without his flying maps and compass on

Martin Warner Horrocks

family holidays, insisting on a window seat to track the flight’s progress and sparking a lifelong fascination with geography in his grandchildren.

In a 26-year career at the BBC, Willy rose through the ranks to become studio director of the Tonight programme with Cliff Michelmore, working on outdoor broadcasts with Alan Whicker and becoming a founding member of the Tomorrow’s World and Horizon teams. He was a pioneer of innovation in outdoor broadcasting, producing the maiden Concorde flights, covering the Coronation, a live climb of the Matterhorn and the first television satellite link-ups with Australia and Japan. He produced live coverage of the London International Fireworks Competition for many years, and following a broadcast of naval exercises in the English Channel was asked to sign a chit by the Ministry of Defence promising to replace the aircraft carrier Ark Royal if his activities damaged or sank it.

Although twice a BAFTA winner with the Tonight and Tomorrow’s World teams, Willy joked that his proudest achievement was the introduction of coloured lane indicators in swimming competitions to enable the viewer to tell who was in the lead no matter what the camera angle. After the BBC there followed ten years at Scotland Yard as the Metropolitan Police’s first ever broadcasting advisor and a role as Director of Studies at the National Broadcasting School until its closure.

His life-long love of car rallying spanned over 70 years, including stints in the MG, Standard-Triumph, BMC and Rover works teams, navigating and co-driving for the likes of Paddy Hopkirk and John Sprinzel and winning Best of British in the Monte Carlo rally alongside countless other trophies. A navigator of the old school increasingly frustrated at the introduction of satnav technology and known by his classic rally drivers as ‘our secret weapon in the Alps’, Willy was renowned for his meticulous preparation and was a familiar sight in Peter Barker’s classic Mini Cooper with stopwatch, compass and his ancient maps updated painstakingly by hand after watching countless hours of Tour de France footage, his interest being the roads, not the riders.

An enthusiastic skier and sailor into his early nineties, Willy is survived

by two daughters Rosy and Vici and grandchildren George and Scarlett.

William Sturmy Cave died on 13th March 2022.

BROOKS, RS (1944, C)

Richard Simon Brooks (called Simon) was born and brought up in Bristol but, owing to the war, attended prep school in North Wales before joining Radley College as a scholar from 1944 to 1948. On leaving, he became articled to a firm of chartered accountants, subsequently qualifying in 1954. He then was enlisted under National Service in the Royal Air Force into which he was commissioned. After two years, mainly spent abroad, he was discharged and then spent a few more years in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force until his unit was disbanded.

His business career revolved around the family business known as Brooks Dye Works Ltd, founded in Bristol in 1819 but which had subsequently focussed on laundry, dry-cleaning and textile rental for industry and hospitality sectors. Simon led the business from 1973 until his retirement in 2001, first as Managing Director and later as Executive Chairman. Over the years the business changed and grew enormously. Simon led the group to become a public liability company, Brooks Service Group plc, in 1987. On retirement, the business had grown to be among the fifth largest laundries in the UK, providing employment for 1600 people.

Other business interests and related activities included a seat on the board of Bristol United Press plc and the chairmanship of the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust from 1991 to 2001, during which time he championed the experience of the bridge as a heritage asset of Bristol. He led the development of a visitor centre as well as a new lighting system to enhance its appearance by allowing routine nocturnal illumination, which had previously only been possible on special occasions. Over the years he was involved in a number of other professional and charitable organisations and trade associations, both national and international. He was also a member of the Dyers’ Livery Company, of which he was Prime Warden from 1996 to 1997, and the Society of Merchant Venturers in Bristol.

In 1959 he married his wife Helen and they had three children, two daughters and a son, who between them have produced eight splendid grandchildren.

He was a proud Old Radleian and frequently could be seen wearing some form of regalia, whether it be the OR tie, cricket jumper or boater, as seen in the accompanying picture, showing him taking part in Swan Upping on the Thames on behalf of the Dyers’ Company. He had many happy memories of his time at Radley, particularly of the extensive grounds, the social plays and the river, where he rowed in his Social’s first IV. Being the smallest boy in the school during his early years, he spent some time as a cox, although his career of coxing a school trial VIII came to a rapid end when he crashed the boat into an Oxford College’s crew and he never coxed an VIII again.

As well as the happy memories, he would also speak of the rather austere, characterbuilding nature of the school at that time, especially of the cold baths, the terrible food, the compulsory boxing and the over-public lavatories, features that were unrecognisable to his grandchildren attending public schools of the modern era; we were never really sure if he felt that his grandchildren were missing out.

Richard Simon Brooks died on 1st May 2022 at the age of 91.

Richard Simon Brooks

PATTISSON, JH (1944, D)

In the autumn of 1946 John had just started his second year at Radley when his father unexpectedly died. It was a terrible blow to the family. The financial consequences of my grandfather’s death meant that John could not remain at the school. In an act of true compassion and Christian charity, the Warden, John Vaughan Wilkes, let my father stay on at Radley, despite the family’s inability to pay the school fees. My father never forgot the kindness he was shown.

John was born on 24th April 1931 at home, in Kent. He was the third of three children born to my grandparents Eric and Louise Pattisson. For my father there was a strong sense of family as he grew up, but he was somewhat isolated. His brother David (who was also at Radley) was a delightful man, courteous, amusing and an embodiment of old-fashioned values, but he was nine years older. His sister Charlotte was a charming, gentle person, but also several years older. His mother was loving, but emotionally

detached. It was his father to whom he felt closest.

In 1940 John went to Brunswick School in Haywards Heath and almost immediately the school was evacuated to Michaelstow House on the edge of Bodmin Moor, in Cornwall. His time at Michaelstow gave rise to a love of Cornwall that was to last his whole life.

In 1944 John came to Radley. He was bright, and particularly good at mathematics, and he won an entrance scholarship. He left Radley in March 1950 having been Head of House for five terms and Senior Prefect for two terms. His final school report paints a vivid picture of the person he was and, even at this early point in his life, his loyalty to Radley is already clear.

His tutor, Tony Gardiner, writes: “He has been a very wise and level-headed counsellor and an extremely faithful friend. In performing his own job so conscientiously, I am afraid he has very often sacrificed his own interests for those of the social and the school.”

The Warden’s report reads: “He was given a real ovation on the last night of term; and it was very well deserved. He has certainly given Radley his best – and his best is very good indeed. I have seldom known a more completely unselfish boy. His wisdom and sound judgment have been invaluable. With all his goodness, he is never anything remotely resembling a prig. We shall miss him enormously. Our grateful thanks, and good wishes.”

In John’s final term at Radley he won a place to go on an African tour, organised by the South Africa Aid to Britain fund. This tour consisted of 22 boys from schools across the country selected by a Prime Minister’s committee. In May 1950 the group flew to Nairobi, and then travelled overland to Cape Town. They returned by sea in September of the same year. It was an expedition which helped turn schoolboys into confident young men.

On John’s return from South Africa, he did his National Service, joining the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry. After National Service he went to Trinity College, Oxford, to read Politics,

◀

John Harmer Pattisson

Philosophy and Economics. At Oxford he was in the ‘Ox and Bucks’ TA battalion with his contemporary, and great friend from Radley, Richard Van Oss. The pair of them carried the battalion colours in the coronation parade of 1953 in Oxford.

John applied for his first job at the start of 1955. His CV was short and matter of fact. Under ‘other information’ he notes he “played the usual games, without outstanding ability, and spoke a little French (but wasn’t fluent)”. And that is it.

He was quickly offered a job with the Industrial Finance and Investment Corporation but soon was asked to join Dawnay Day Group, a merchant bank which specialised in raising finance for small and medium-sized companies. He stayed with Dawnay Day for the next 26 years and was managing director from 1969 to 1981. In 1980, recognising that the company needed to be part of a larger group he negotiated their acquisition by Jacob Rothschild. This was the right move for the business, but he effectively put himself out of a job.

In 1964 John had arranged the flotation (on the stock market) of a small Huddersfield-based haulage company called Wiles Group. James Hanson, the son of the founder, was keen to grow the business. John’s previous association with the company, his deep knowledge of the way the City worked, and his understanding of the mysterious moving parts of London finance, when coupled with his astute brain, meant he was the ideal person to help turn James Hanson’s corporate ambition into reality. He joined Hanson Trust in 1982 and this was the start of the most rewarding 15 years of his working life.

When he left Hanson plc (as it was now called) in 1996, aged 65, he kept working as Chairman of various pension schemes associated with Hanson subsidiaries. He was also Chairman of various publicly quoted companies. He didn’t really retire until he was about 75.

Along the way, John was a council member of Aims in Industry and a member of the governing body of one of the first City Technology Colleges, at Kingshurst in the West Midlands. He was a Trustee of the Literary Review. He was an enthusiastic member of the City of London Club,

and Boodle’s in St. James’s. John was also, in 1969, a founding member of Tramp, the central London nightclub. Annual membership was 10 guineas (which became £20 in 1971 following decimalisation). The cost of membership for founding members never increased.

Work was important to John, but his family and friends were at the centre of everything he really cared about. My parents married in 1958, having met at Oxford. My brother Edward was born in 1960, and I arrived in 1963. The marriage was not to last but there was a closeness between my parents which remained until the day my father died. In addition to the profound affection he felt for everyone in his family, he also had a real gift for friendship and loyalty. He made people feel special. His Christmas card list was evidence of the wide range of people, from all walks of life, with whom he kept in touch. The large number of birthday cards he always received, was testimony to the respect and love that others felt for him.

John showed remarkable loyalty to numerous causes. He was asked to join the governing body of Radley College in 1965 and served the school faithfully for 40 years. It was a remarkable act of devotion. He was involved with the investment committees of both Trinity and St Anne’s Colleges in Oxford for over 20 years. His contributions were valued so highly he was asked to be an Honorary Fellow of both Colleges.

And he was generous; he helped people in need. I think he enjoyed being able to help people, whether individual lost causes, or institutions. He also had no qualms about getting his friends to help when required. He persuaded various people, including Tim Rice, the lyricist, to help him raise funds for the renovation of the church hall in St Teath in Cornwall. In memory of my brother Edward, he funded the rebuilding and repairs to the organ in Truro Cathedral. He also funded the renovation of the altarpiece in Chapel at Radley.

About 20 years ago John recognised the impracticality of living in a tall, narrow house on the Fulham Road in London. It was not well suited to someone with a creaky knee and carrying a bit too much weight around the middle. He spotted a new development of ‘retirement’ homes in Winchester, only a couple of miles from where we live. He rang me up to ask if

we would visit it to assess its suitability for him. After a positive report, he came down to Winchester the following day and bought one of the remaining flats on the spot. He was good at making decisions!

Within a few months John was happily ensconced at 19 Wyke Mark, a smallish retirement flat which suited him perfectly and had the big advantage that he was much nearer his immediate family. This brought him enormous pleasure, and it was rare for a month to go by without him coming over for lunch to see his four grandchildren. It was a very special time for us all.

Four years ago, John rather ambitiously decided, in the middle of an October storm, to go to the post box to post a letter. Unfortunately, the wind upended him, he took a tumble and broke his hip. He was unable to continue living independently and he moved into a care home. He did not want to end his days there, but he dealt with his frustrations with good grace and unfailing courtesy to all the staff.

I have received numerous letters of condolence since my father died. The common theme in them all is his generosity of spirit, his friendship, his loyalty, his formidable intellect, and his sense of humour. One of the letters I received was from a former colleague on the Radley Council. He finished his letter with the following words:

“I can see and hear your father as I write this letter – he had a very strong presence and a very strong personality. Knowing him, I feel I can imagine what the greatest of the Victorians were like; of course, he was entirely up to date in his mindset but brought with him the values and integrity of that more cultured age.” It is an image which gives a strong sense of the man he was.

My father was able to think with true originality, and he had the rare skill of rigorous intellectual precision. But, more than anything else, he was a kind man. He accepted everyone for who they were, nothing more, and nothing less. And he went out of his way to help others, particularly those in need. He was a rare individual: wise, thoughtful and a friend to many; he was a loving father, and a true Christian.

John Harmer Pattisson died peacefully on 5th September 2022.

An Appreciation for John Pattisson, from Mike Hodgson Radley College Chapel, 3rd November, 2022

I quote “I would go as far as to say that I am not sure there can be anyone who has given as much to Radley (in terms of his time, his talents and generosity) as John did in his 40-year stint.” These are the words of Christopher Clarke, a colleague of John’s for 25 years on Council and his successor as Vice Chairman. None of us who served with him would disagree with that view. John has been an immense figure in Radley’s recent history.

We have heard from William of John’s very considerable skills in business and financial matters. These were fully deployed over his time on Council. At his first Council meeting in December 1965, he would have heard a report on Radley’s finances delivered by, a rather appropriately named, Mr Hole. The minutes read, “in the unanimous opinion of the GPC, reserves were inadequate to cover such important items as the rise in current costs, the accumulated obsolescence of the buildings and the financing of new buildings. Unless standards were reduced, a substantial increase in income was essential …” Boy numbers were down to 440. When John stepped down 40 years later, the

campus was transformed, finances secure, school numbers were at 580, and Council had approved the addition of two new Socials to raise numbers to 650. He played a very, very substantial role in that transformation.

John spent 40 years on Council, 11 as Vice Chairman. 36 years on the Investment Subcommittee, 34 years on the General Purposes Committee. He became Chairman of the Friends of Radley in the 1990s and worked with Richard Morgan, Anthony Robinson, and Thomas Seymour to set up the Radley Foundation, for which he became the inaugural Chair of Trustees.

It was clear to Council, after questionable financial management in the 1960s that, with the arrival of a new young Warden with ambition in 1968, much more professionalism was required. A full school with burgeoning waiting lists over the next 50 years would give a sound base for Radley’s finances. Radley has also been fortunate to receive a series of windfalls from land sales over that period. The school has been even more fortunate to have John Pattisson working with its Chairmen, particularly David Rae Smith in the 1970s and 80s, and with two superb Bursars, Mickey Jones and Richard Beauchamp, together managing these finances. It was John, inevitably John,

who plucked Richard Beauchamp from a subsidiary of Hanson. That Richard had an engineering rather than a bursarial background raised a few eyebrows, but John was held in such esteem by all of us on Council that the appointment wasn’t challenged. Richard quickly mastered every aspect of the job. With his engineering experience, he oversaw the transformation of Radley’s campus in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Listening to this, you might think that John was some kind of company doctor brought in to treat an ailing patient, working with others to turn it round and bring growth and success. In basic terms, that is what John has done, but that would be a gross misrepresentation of the totality of this contribution. He was unconstrained in helping any and everyone connected with Radley. For instance, he made it his business to keep in touch with retired Dons to check that they were surviving with the assistance of a modest College pension scheme. If necessary, he lobbied for additional contributions and when they died, for their wives, who were excluded by the terms of the scheme, to inherit the benefit. When Anthony Robinson, with whom John worked extensively setting up the Radley Foundation, faced “no fault” circumstances requiring him to step down as Chair of the Foundation Board, John got into his car and drove all the way to Anthony’s house in Gloucestershire, to console him.

It is characteristic of John’s generosity that, at the end of his time on Council, when we were all reflecting and marvelling at his contribution, he should initiate and personally finance the renovation and re-siting of the reredos on Chapel’s east wall. It had been half hidden behind the altar which, prior to the chapel extension, was located just behind where I stand. It is so appropriate that the reredos has pride of place in a re-modelled Chapel which was so dear to his heart. It will serve as a memorial to one of Radley’s greatest.

The motivation for granting a bursary to John after his father’s tragic death was certainly, in William’s words “true compassion and Christian charity.” Such has been John’s devotion to Radley, so impactful his contribution to this place, if that bursary was the catalyst, it must represent the most successful investment ever made by this school.

PETRIE, GM (1944, B)

Graham attended Radley between 19441949 and was a prefect. He studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, before becoming a GP and later a consultant psychiatrist. He married, and was a father and grandfather. He will be very much missed by his family.

Dr Graham Maxwell Petrie died on 23rd July 2021 at the age of 90.

TEASDALE, RNW (1944, A)

Richard Norman Whigham Teasdale was born in Lahore on 7th of August, 1931. He very much enjoyed his time at Radley although, with typical modesty, he always described his academic career as undistinguished. Richard developed a lifelong love of rowing while at Radley and made the 1st VIII.

After National Service in the RAF, he made a career in the carpet business. Together with his Swedish wife, Margareta (who died in 2016), he was to be seen in the Stewards’ Enclosure at Henley Regatta every year without fail, sporting his OR blazer.

In later years he suffered from COPD and his daughter Kristina cared for him at home in Camberley, Surrey. He bore his illness stoically and very cheerfully and

continued, when he could, his hobby of constructing models of old sailing ships in amazingly intricate detail. After a fall leading to complications, he was admitted to hospital where he had the misfortune to catch Covid and died on 8th of October, 2022.

WILLIAMS, MJ (1946, F)

After Radley, where he was a school prefect and was awarded the CCF Sword of Honour, Mike spent his National Service in Hong Kong as a Second Lieutenant with the Royal Artillery, and then went up to Hertford College, Oxford, to read law. On graduating, he joined Mather & Crowther as an advertising executive, and during his time there he met Gillian, to whom he was happily married for almost sixty years. After nearly a decade he made a move to ICI where he spent the rest of his working life, starting as an assistant brand manager in sales at Paints Division and rising to National Sales Manager, before changing direction and going into HR.

On retirement, he spent four very enjoyable years working part time for Surrey University’s schools and industry liaison unit, supporting the teaching of STEM subjects and harnessing practical support from industry. Latterly he was a senior guide at Guildford Cathedral for over 20 years.

Mike had a lifelong love of music and the theatre and was a prolific reader, something which was frequently mentioned in his Radley reports.

Michael John Williams died on 30th December 2021.

WADDILOVE, JS (1947, H)

John Stuart Waddilove was born in Yorkshire on 8th May 1934. His early years were spent at Nesfield, near Ilkley, and then Weeton near Harrogate where John attended Grosvenor House School. He excelled at academic subjects and at sports, especially cricket which became one of the great loves of his life. From 1947, he attended Radley College in Oxfordshire, where he spent probably the happiest years of his life. He always spoke warmly of his years at the school and remained a proud Old Radleian. In his will, he bequeathed to Radley his collection of a complete run of Wisden’s Cricketers’ Almanack. And what a cricketer he was. In Junior Colts Cricket, he scored his first 100 for the school (101 Not Out) in 1949. The write up for the match credits him as one of the best in his cohort: “Outstanding amongst the most promising cricketers was Waddilove – an unusually good captain for a young boy.” Such was his skill that he played for the Cricket XI alongside future England Captain Ted Dexter in both 1951 and 1952, with the team’s scores appearing in Wisden’s for those years. He was also awarded colours for the First XI Hockey in 1951.

John Stuart Waddilove

Richard

Norman

Whigham Teasdale

In 1955, after National Service, John went up to Pembroke College, Cambridge, to study Law; membership of the College became another proud memory alongside that of Radley. After Cambridge came the most exciting adventure of his early years. In September 1958, he became a management trainee in Nairobi with Standard Vacuum Oil Company East Africa. John always looked back on the four months induction programme as one of the happiest periods of his life. One highlight of his time in Kenya was his ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro in 1959. He also worked in Uganda. In 1963, John moved to London to work for Esso, but life in the UK and the end of his short marriage left him restlessly seeking new adventures. He decided to emigrate to Australia in September 1967. After renting a flat in Kirribilli for a few years, with a view of Sydney Harbour Bridge and the construction of the Opera House, in 1972 he bought a bungalow in Avalon Beach, north of Sydney, which was to be his home for the next forty-five years. He soon took out Australian citizenship. He worked for Esso in Human Resources until 1985 when he took early retirement in order to pursue his many interests. He was a keen bibliophile, accumulating a collection of around 3000 books by his death. The most common subjects were Africa, Art, Music, furniture, biography and history. He was a great fan of J.M.W. Turner and Joseph Haydn.

John did not remarry or have children, but he was an adored uncle and godfather, and had a gift for turning his friends and neighbours into family. For one of his dear friends, he was a role model of how to grow old well. He was always cheerful with a huge smile and frequent chuckle. He was conservative and appreciated tradition, but he was never stuck in his ways; shy, yet fun loving; humble, yet curious and knowledgeable; and generous not only financially but also with his time and devotion. Before the shadow of vascular dementia fell over John in his last four years, he had created a vast store of happy memories for those who knew him. He remained an adventurer, explorer and good sportsman (in both senses). One of his oldest friends said of him: “John belonged to an era when most men aspired to behave like gentlemen, and he, more than most, undoubtedly succeeded.”

John Stuart Waddilove died on 13th November 2021, aged 87.

WELLS, DL (1947, B)

David was always very proud of his time at Radley College. He spoke often about his school days and their influence on his life – especially in starting his love of music and films, encouraging the development of his acting talent, his stage craft, and his singing. He attended the annual Old Radleian Dinner for very many years and was honoured to accompany the school song on the piano for many of these reunions.

Aged 6, David went off to a succession of 3 boarding schools, first at Hains Hill School near Wargrave, and then to Cothill House School, Abingdon and later to Radley College. David picked up a love of music, playing the piano and singing. He was a keen sportsman, rowing and playing Rugby and Cricket for the school. He also showed a talent as an actor, often playing the female lead in the school plays.

After school he entered the Royal Marines. He was a junior officer and took responsibility for amphibious landing craft as part of his National Service in 195354. He was very proud to have been on duty for the guarding of the Royal Yacht Britannia when it visited Gibraltar in May 1954.

After National Service, David secured a job at Catesby’s Limited, an interior design department store in central London. Starting at the bottom, he learned the trade and then opened his own contract furnishing company which did a lot of business in the Middle East.

David married his beloved wife Jean in 1957 at St James’s Piccadilly. With the imminent arrival of daughter Catherine, they came to Dulwich in 1962. Here, David pursued his passion for performance as

David Lake Wells

a member of the Dulwich Players and various other amateur groups. David had a great partnership with friend and pianist Robert Nisbet, entertaining many people, in care homes and hospitals, with their take on musical hall songs. David supported the arts, enjoying easy access to London for the recitals, theatre, opera and art galleries. He could identify a soprano on the radio with the greatest of ease. His knowledge of concert piano music repertoire was phenomenal.

Another of his great passions was horse racing, a passion which he acquired from his mother. He would be asked to put bets on for his mother and through this process was drawn into the sport from a young age. There was many a fortunate race goer at Ascot, Goodwood, and other courses who sat next to David and just happened to ask his advice. They were to be treated to a really expert insight into the runners and riders, but he would never let on which horse he had bet on!

The most endearing thing about David, for anyone who knew him, was his generosity of spirit and his generosity in sponsorship. He was a great sponsor of the arts: the Dulwich Picture Gallery, the Globe Theatre, the Horniman Museum, and the Royal Opera House, to name but a few. He was a sponsor of many charities which touched him, and always generous to family and friends. He could pick you up with his cheery greeting. His concern for you, your friends and family. His offer of help in whatever form he could find to give if he spotted a need.

Jean predeceased David by 20 years. David and Jean were a good team, and they shared many loves. David is survived by his daughter Catherine and two grandchildren: Thomas and Emily; and four great grandchildren: Lucas, Maisie, Elodie and Francis.

David Lake Wells died on 30th July 2022.

WALTON, AJ (1948, B)

Tony Walton was born on October 24th, 1934 in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, to Hilda (nee Drew) and Lancelot Walton, a surgeon. He arrived at Radley in 1948 and was soon deeply involved in a variety of pursuits. He was on the Tennis Team in the early 1950s, was Captain of the 3rd XV, and a sergeant in the CCF. He won a number of school prizes for art, at

which he excelled. He was the Secretary of the Art Society, Artistic Director of the Marionette Society, Head of Choir, and was also involved in debating, drama, playreading, poetry and the Madrigal Society during his time at Radley. Tony was the editor of the Radleian from 195153, and a prefect in 1952 & 1953.

As Artistic Director of the Marionette Society, he led on some impressively ambitious puppet shows featuring music hall and the operas of Mozart and Gilbert and Sullivan. He created the sets and operated the lighting with such success that stage designer John Piper suggested he should follow a career in production design after seeing one of these shows. Tony had a short stint in the R.A.F. for his compulsory military service, and described himself as an ‘inept pilot’. His training took place in Canada, giving him the opportunity to make eye-opening

visits down to Broadway during the height of theatre writers such as Tennessee Williams, Arthur Miller, and Rodgers & Hammerstein. The new ways in which these productions were being designed and staged was a source of inspiration for Tony. Rather than follow his father into a medical career, Tony’s interests led him to pursue the arts. Following his two years at the Slade School of Fine Art.

Tony had first seen Julie Andrews, also from Walton-on-Thames, in a West End production of Humpty Dumpty, where she played the egg, when they were both around 12. He struck up a friendship with her after finding her home number in a telephone book. Following his military service and two years at the Slade School of Fine Art, he headed to New York to join Julie, who was making a name for herself on Broadway. Tony’s theatre career took off in 1957 with the stage

Tony Walton, front row, third from the right ▶ 1953 Marionette Society Pirates of Penzance

design for Noël Coward’s off-Broadway production of Conversation Piece, the first of many designs for stage and screen in the USA and UK. In 1957, Tony and Julie were married. During early discussion regarding her role in Mary Poppins, Julie introduced Tony to Walt Disney who hired him as costume designer, set designer, and visual consultant for the film after viewing his portfolio. He was an avid supporter of the decision to set the film in the Edwardian era, and led on key visual decisions, such as introducing the realistic curved and inclined Cherry Tree Lane, Bert’s ‘jolly holiday’ jacket design of tangerine, cherry and raspberry stripes, and hinting at Mary Poppins’ ‘secret life’ by lining her grey and black clothes with bright colours.

The film musical Mary Poppins was instantly recognised as a visual masterpiece on its release in 1964, when it won Julie Andrews an Oscar for her performance as the Banks’s children’s nanny and gave Walt Disney his biggest box-office success to date. Tony received an  Academy Award nomination for  Best Costume Design.

Tony’s illustrious career spanned film, television and theatre, and included many successful projects. In the 1970s he was nominated for further Academy Awards for Murder on the Orient Express (Best Costume Design), The Wiz (Best Costume Design and Best Art Director), and finally won the Academy Award for Best Art Direction for Bob Fosse’s musical film  All That Jazz. He was awarded an Emmy Award in 1985 for Outstanding Art Direction for a Miniseries or Movie of Volker Schlöndorff’s adaption of Death of a Salesman starring Dustin Hoffman and John Malkovich. As Scenic Director he won Tony Awards for Pippin (1973), The House of Blue Leaves (1986) and Guys and Dolls (1992). He continued to work on stage productions into his 70s, and branched out into directing and producing.

Tony was a member of United Scenic Artists of America, Costume Designers Guild California, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. In 2001 he became a board member of the Museum of the Moving Image, New York, and also taught at the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University, New York.

Tony and Julie Andrews were divorced in 1968, but remained friends, and Tony remarried in 1991 to author Gen LeRoy. In 2011 Tony wrote to Radley to report that, with the help of his ‘inexhaustible wife Gen’, he was organising, cataloguing, measuring & photographing 55+ yearsworth of his stage & film design work for the Library of Congress in Washington DC. They had been collecting his work over the years and had asked him “for everything”.

Tony died on 2nd March 2022 and is survived by his wife Gen, Emma, his daughter from his marriage to Andrews, and his step-daughter Bridget, and five grandchildren.

COLLINS, DA (1949, D)

At Radley, David Collins rowed in the Second VIII and was remembered by some of his contemporaries as being a fine trombone player.

On leaving, he carried out his basic training for National Service with the Royal Marines, and was subsequently commissioned, into the East Surrey Regiment. On demobilisation, after various courses and tooth-cutting jobs, David joined the family reinsurance broking company, A J Collins & Co, founded by his eponymous grandfather. He worked largely in the German market and lived and worked in Germany for a year, becoming fluent in the language. The

company, of which he became a director, was ultimately acquired by Stewart Wrightson, where he remained until retirement. He was also an underwriting member of Lloyds.

David continued a family tradition, by joining the Honourable Artillery Company, where he quickly rose to the rank of Lance Corporal, only regaining his prior rank of 2/Lt after 4 years. Ultimately, he commanded the Medium Machine Gun Platoon, equipped with the Vickers gun. He played rugger for the HAC for many years and, on occasion, turned out for the Radley Swallows. Having given up rugger, he took to sailing, on the recommendation of the late Brian Holland OR, owning a series of Westerly cruising yachts which he kept on the Hamble.

Following another family tradition, he joined the Worshipful Company of Fanmakers in 1958, becoming Master in 1983. He became the honorary curator of the Company’s collection of fans and made a specific bequest of the collection of fans which he had amassed with his wife. At the time of his death, he was the Senior Past Master.

David’s wife, Louise, predeceased him in January 2021. David Arthur Collins died on 15th April 2022.

HENDERSON, AD (1949, B)

Written by The Revd Canon Professor James Woodward PhD, Principal of Sarum College

The Revd Andrew Henderson, who received the Cross of St Augustine in 2008 for his work with HIV and AIDS patients, died just before Christmas, aged 85.

Andrew Douglas Henderson was born in London in 1936, the eldest child of Hester and Jock Henderson. Educated at Stonehurst and Radley College, he read theology at Trinity College, Cambridge. It was at Great St Mary’s, Cambridge, that Andrew met Mervyn Stockwood, who was influential in nurturing his vocation. After training at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, Andrew served as a nonstipendiary worker priest, while training as a psychiatric social worker.

After working for Wandsworth Council, Andrew became Assistant Director of Social Services for Ealing, under Nick

David Collins

Stacey. He then spent more than a decade as Director of Social Services at Kensington and Chelsea. Colleagues remember him as effective, innovative, and insightful, during a period of rapid social and political change.

After his retirement, Andrew re-trained as a psychotherapist. He continued to be engaged in both community and social action. He was a key figure in the recognition of the validity and equality of LGBTI+ people both in Church and society. He believed in the power of the group: a huge part of his witness and ministry took place in groups of one sort or another. This included campaign groups — in the 1960s, he was an active supporter of the then Homosexual Law Reform Society, which, after the passing of 1967 Act, became the Albany Trust. Throughout his ministry, he convened groups that embraced prayer and meditation, theological study, and therapy and counselling. Perhaps Andrew’s greatest legacy was his work with those affected by HIV/ AIDS. With Christopher Spence, he founded the London Lighthouse, helping to raise £4.5 million to transform the building into a refuge for support, safety, care, and complementary therapy. It was pioneering as it became a beacon of hope, care, and love. The Lighthouse was one of the Princess of Wales’s

favourite charities; she spent hours visiting terminally ill patients. Andrew chaired the charity for 15 years. This was recognised by the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Williams, who awarded Andrew the Cross of St Augustine in 2008. The citation noted that Andrew “sees life steadily and sees it whole; urgent Christian witness enabled many individuals, of every belief or none, to keep their faith in humanity, and in themselves”.

Andrew was inquisitive. He was an adventurer and searcher after truth. He loved ideas, concepts, narratives that helped us to fathom the complexity of our life. He cared about how we communicate truth. He was wise about the human condition and forgiving of complexity and disconnectedness. He wanted always to know more about mystery, silence, growth, and our search for authenticity. His priesthood was grounded in the integrity of his search for truth and in the quality of his attentiveness. One of the most skilful of listeners, Andrew knew about the absurdity of life, its ambiguities, and paradoxes. He possessed deep emotional and spiritual intelligence. Perhaps his sense of life as a gift gave him a generous vision of the world as a good and beautiful and hope-filled place — even if it is also a tragic one — because it is God’s.

Andrew retired to Brighton with his partner, Ralph Goulding, who predeceased him. He faced the closing years with calm endurance, aided by the love and support of St Nicholas’s and his many friends. He died in the days before Christmas. He is survived by his two sisters, Janie and Mary, and their families.

Revd Andrew Douglas Henderson died on 8th December 2021.

SEDGWICK, JRM (1949, C)

It is with great sadness and regret that we announce the passing of John Sedgwick who died peacefully in his sleep on 1st February 2022 at the age of 86. The funeral service was held at Woking Crematorium on Friday 18th March.

John Richard Michael Sedgwick was born in Weybridge on 31st December 1935, the eldest of four sons. He attended the Wells House prep school and Radley College. At Radley he enjoyed sciences and cricket. It was while studying at Brooklands College that he met his future wife of 56 years, Su. Together they had 3 children. After Brooklands, John worked in his father’s businesses and then went on to enjoy a near 30-year computer programming career at Penguin Books. When he retired, as a home hi-fi and recording enthusiast, he provided high quality services to various talking news services, first for Weybridge Hospital and then at Blandford when he and Su moved down to Dorset.

John will be hugely missed by his children Caroline, Jeremy and Michael and his granddaughters Susana, Ruby, Leila and Sadbh, as well as his extended family and friends.

John Richard Michael Sedgwick died on 1st February 2022, aged 86.

The Revd Andrew Henderson

John Richard Michael Sedgwick

ROBINSON, PMW (1950, E)

Born in Bassell’s Green, near Sevenoaks, Patrick moved up to Radley in 1950 from Fernden Preparatory School. He followed his brother David Robinson into E Social, joining the choir and quickly settling into a life involving rugby, cricket and a strong love of all things mathematical, including algebra which he always alleged he was taught upside down.

Upon leaving Radley, Patrick qualified as a Chartered Accountant, working for American Express in their International Banking Division before moving to Hays Ackers & Hays in the City of London where he helped set up Hovertravel; one of the most innovative start-ups in travel using the revolutionary technology of the hovercraft. Following time at Expo’67 in Canada, introducing the hovercraft and Hovertravel to the world, Patrick moved to British Hovercraft Corporation, the original inventors of the commercial hovercraft, famously based in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. In later life Patrick moved to GKN Westlands in Somerset, working in the finance and commercial teams ensuring helicopters such as the Apache, Gazelle, Lynx and Sea King

became household names throughout the world.

His time at Radley was a time my father loved, a place of kinship and camaraderie that stayed with him throughout his life. Ross Anson, his study mate, would even go on to introduce Patrick to Judith, his wife of 55 years, when home from Africa after they had left school. Years later when we were to return with me, his son, stepping out in the blue of Sherborne it was a joy to watch him scamper like a small schoolboy from wherever I was playing to join the massed ranks of Radley’s ever-enthusiastic support on the 1st XV pitch & start up the bellowing calls of RADLEY RADLEY RADLEY while fully bedecked in his Radley scarf and old school tie.

To the end he was the devoted husband of Judith, loving father of Lucy and Richard, proud grandfather of Katie, Ben, Isobel and Alex, and uncle to David Robinson (E Social 1944-49)’s three sons Charles, Christopher and Philip.

Patrick Michael Whitmore Robinson passed away peacefully at home on the 25th February 2022 with his family, aged 84 years.

Simon

He spent his first years in Australia managing crop projects in rural New South Wales, building experience in the irrigation industry before setting up his own business. He later moved to Queensland and eventually settled on the Gold Coast, where he continued to work as an irrigation design consultant and was deeply involved in building relationships and representation across the professional community of irrigators in Australia. He was passionate about the water industry. He was still doing and enjoying work in this space even in the few months before he passed away.

When he wasn’t working, Simon was often volunteering, either as a member of the conservative political movement in Australia, or as a member of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard. Otherwise as time and resources permitted, especially later in life, Simon enjoyed travelling, most regularly to New Zealand and back to England to visit family and friends.

For his service to the irrigation industry and the broader community, Simon was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2022.

He is survived by his wife Diana and sons Michael and David, who were all by his bedside in his final days.

COWLAND-COOPER, SP (1953, G)

Cowland-Cooper was educated at Radley and Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester, before migrating to Australia in 1964.

Simon Patrick Cowland-Cooper OAM died on 2nd September 2022.

Patrick Michael Whitmore Robinson

Simon Cowland-Cooper

MANSELL, GFR (1954, F)

Guy Mansell was a travel writer and PR consultant. A free spirit and adventurer, Guy lived life to the full.

After leaving Radley and a period of work in India, Guy started in the late 1950s as a journalist on the Daily Express. Guy left journalism and initially pursued various commercial ventures before rediscovering his true love in travel and writing in his late thirties. Guy authored the first edition of the Insight Travel Guide to Ireland and his award-winning writing and promotional work included putting the Hurtigruten in Norway and tourism in Croatia well and truly on the travel map. From the 1990s Guy used his travel expertise to lecture on various cruise ships where he met his longterm partner, Glynis.

Guy died on 30th August 2022 following a stroke. He leaves his son, Jason, and daughter, Charlotte, from his previous marriage. His nephews Richard (1994, D) and Nicholas Dew (1996, D) are both Old Radleians.

RODDICK, BM (1954, H)

Bryan Roddick was born on 5th February 1941 in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, to Malcolm J Roddick (1930, D) and Peggy Goodall. He attended Radley between 1954-59, gaining excellent O- and A-Levels, and nurturing an early passion for sport as Captain of the 2nd XI Cricket Team.

After departing Radley, Bryan studied at Grenoble University and finished with a

1st class degree. He embarked on a lifelong and distinguished career with Lloyds, as a marine insurance underwriter. A colleague of his commented that he ‘had a deep understanding of international shipping, and understood the great variety of some unusual risks presented to him. He was very patient with young and inexperienced brokers. Bryan hugely contributed to the depth of professional knowledge within the London Marine Insurance market, which was recognised by his being the Chairman of the Salvage Association of London from 1992-94.’

Bryan was a very keen golfer, and had a number of brilliant successes, including winning the Howden Challenge Cup in 1985, the President’s Prize in 1987, and the W. J. Foster Cup in summer 1993. He was Captain of Lloyd’s Golf Club from 2000, and President from 2004, following in the footsteps of his grandfather J. A. Roddick, who was Captain of the Club in 1932. Bryan was also Captain of St George’s Hill Golf Club in 1990-91, and a regular player in the Old Radleian Golf Team in the 1970s and 80s.

Bryan also continued his early success with cricket, and was a member of Purley Cricket Club and Marylebone Cricket Club. He was a regular visitor to Lord’s,

and toured Australia with the MCC Golf Team in 2010-11.

In addition to golf and cricket, Bryan was a skilled sportsman with a racket in hand. He joined the St George’s Hill Lawn Tennis Club in 1971, and qualified as a squash rackets professional in 1974. He was the Chairman of the Squash Committee between 1974-80, the first person to do so for the length of six years, and became the Chairman of the Club in 1983. Bryan also wrote the foreward to the first Club book of 1988. Those members who worked alongside him were astounded at the amount of time that he devoted to St George’s.

In 1992, Bryan met Carol, and she very quickly became the greatest enthusiasm of a man with many interests. They married in 1993. Bryan and Carol shared a love of travel and, for twenty years, they spent every winter in Thailand, playing golf, enjoying great food and drink, and spending golden days in the sun with good friends.

A close friend of Bryan’s, John Padovan, grandfather of Old Radleian Oliver Padovan, said of him: ‘Not an ounce of malice will have been found in Bryan. He was one of life’s gentlemen. We have, indeed, been fortunate to have known him.’

Bryan Roddick

Guy Mansell

Four hundred friends and family attended the service of thanksgiving for Bryan, a testament to the number of lives he touched, and to the years of devoted service he gave to the clubs and friendships about which he was so passionate.

Bryan Malcolm Roddick died on 22nd June 2022, aged 81.

BURBIDGE, HHB (1955, F)

Howard Harry Borrodaile Burbidge passed away peacefully on 4th September 2021, the day of his 80th Birthday. A proud Old Radleian at F Social from 1955 – 1960, he will forever be known as having an infectious laugh and the ability to make everyone feel involved and as if he was totally invested in their story. He leaves behind Susie and his two boys, Guy and Rupert, and four much-loved grandchildren, with pride at a life lived to its fullest and with great love for, and dedication to, his family and friends.

COPEMAN, PCM (1956, D)

Patrick was born in Brentwood, UK, on 20th May 1942 to Jean Angela George and Frank Cecil Copeman.

After attending Radley College, where he enjoyed participating in most sports and by all accounts got up to a lot of mischief, he joined the Royal Marines where he completed a signals course and trained as a naval pilot. He then had a stint on the P&O boats as a purser, liked what he saw abroad, and decided to move to

the “colonies”. In 1965 he landed in Cape Town, found work as a salesman and, while employed with Irvin & Johnson, was transferred to many parts of South Africa and Southwest Africa. He then changed the fisheries & frozen foods company for the bakers and retired as a Sales and Distribution Manager for Sunbake in Pretoria in 1997.

He was a keen sportsman, photographer, and stamp collector. His photographs took him to many countries in the world where he had a special interest in landscape, wildlife, vintage cars and motorX. He also

received a couple of medals for his stamp exhibits at National Stamp Competitions.

Patrick died on 23rd June 2022 from complications after a fall. He had a very full and interesting life, and he will be sorely missed by his wife of 46 years, Paola.

FOYLE, WRC (1956, B)

The following obituary is from the Daily Telegraph

Christopher Foyle OBE DL, who has died aged 79, was a distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist who achieved

Christopher Foyle (right) with Baroness Thatcher and Lord Baker of Dorking (Kenneth Baker), at the annual Foyles Literary Lunch held at the Dorchester in honour of Lady Thatcher in 2002.

Foyles was founded in London in 1903 by brothers William and Gilbert Foyle.

Ian Jones Retained

Howard Harry Borrodaile Burbidge

commercial success in two radically different fields: bookselling and aviation.

With an eclectic range of interests that reflected his lively, inquiring mind, he was perhaps best known for his dynamic chairmanship of the famous bookstore in London that bears his family name. Before that, however, he built an impressive air cargo business that was notable for its innovative use of giant Russian aircraft.

Foyle’s capacity for hard work was accompanied by a gregarious, humorous, generous nature and an openness to maverick ideas. Fascinated by UFOs and alternative archaeology, he funded a number of geographic expeditions, including a search for the Yeti in the Borneo jungle.

In his later life he was also an author; his most widely acclaimed book was entitled Foyle’s Philavery, a term which he invented to describe a “collection of words chosen simply on the grounds of their aesthetic appeal, quirkiness or obscurity”. Typical of the selection was “kakistocracy”, defined as “a system of government in which the rulers are the least competent, least qualified and most unprincipled citizens.”

Another major project was the awardwinning restoration of the historic family home of Beeleigh Abbey in Essex, which dated back to the 12th century. The Abbey had belonged to his eccentric Aunt Christina, who also owned the bookstore, but had long been in decline, its condition made all the worse by her phalanx of pungent, ill-trained cats. “We had to rip up floorboards and remove whole sections of plastering before we finally got rid of that lingering odour,” he later recalled.

He took charge of Foyle’s bookshop in 1999 on the death of Christina who had run it for 54 years in an increasingly bizarre fashion. Christopher had briefly worked there in his youth but then, finding his chances of promotion blocked by his autocratic relative, had forged his own commercial path. The store had become notorious under Christina Foyle for such anachronisms as requiring customers to queue three times to pay for their purchases rather than going to a single till. But that was the least of the problems Christopher faced.

He found for example that, instead of being ordered alphabetically, books were

grouped together by publisher across 30 miles of shelving: “The whole place was a mess. There were three elderly ladies writing up the figures in manual ledgers.” Yet he turned the business around, returned it to profitability, and opened a series of other outlets before he sold Foyle’s to the Waterstone’s chain in 2018.

Christopher was born on 20th January 1943, the son of Richard Foyle, who also worked for the family firm founded by Christopher’s grandfather William and great-uncle Gilbert in 1903. Christopher’s mother, Alice, née Kun, was a more formidable figure. Born in Budapest and brought up in Vienna, she had come to Britain in 1934, married Richard Foyle in 1937 and pursued her own, highly successful, independent career in publishing.

Along with his brother Anthony, Christopher attended Scaitcliffe preparatory School in Berkshire, from where he went to Radley. He was a bright but not particularly diligent pupil, his fondness for pranks sometimes landing him in trouble. After he let off some fire crackers in his dormitory he was beaten so clumsily by his housemaster that the cane broke; Christopher kept the shattered remnants in his library at Beeleigh Abbey as a souvenir.

During his schooldays, Christopher also began to attend Foyle’s literary luncheons. These events were major fixtures in the London social calendar, but Christopher’s first experience was particularly dramatic, as it was the occasion when Randolph Churchill drunkenly denounced fellow guest speaker Sir Hugh Cudlipp, editor of the Daily Mirror, as “the Pornographer Royal.”

During his unsatisfactory spell at Foyle’s as a trainee manager in the 1960s, Christopher travelled to Germany, Finland and France to gain more experience of the book trade. By a coincidence, one of the postcards still sold by Shakespeare and Company, the renowned Englishspeaking bookstore in Paris, features a dashing picture of Christopher from this period, clad in fashionable sunglasses and browsing through its outdoor display.

Thwarted of promotion by his aunt, he left to work for a firm of financial advisers before moving into the aviation industry,

having been interested in aviation since he had first learnt to fly a glider at the age of 15. From modest beginnings as a small air-taxi service operated from a terraced house in Luton, he built up a fleet that operated major freight services, including for the global giant TNT. His skill as a businessman was highlighted in 1989 when, after two years of tough negotiations with the Soviets, his company became responsible for the operational management of their mighty Antonov planes, which could carry everything from tanks to railway locomotives.

His airline was not just focused on commerce; during the first Gulf War, Air Foyle lifted 600 refugees from Kuwait to Ukraine. In 2007 Foyle was inducted into the International Air Cargo Association’s Hall of Fame, hailed as “a man of great vision, known for his high level of commitment, innovation, resourcefulness and perseverance”.

It was at a party in Luton that he met Catherine Jelleyman, a student nurse who shared his fascination with aviation. Struck by his good looks, easy warmth and selfconfidence, she had an uncanny “sense of knowing that I was going to marry him”. They married in July 1983 and went on to have three daughters.

The couple became renowned for their hospitality and kindness, reflected in their parties and open days for the public in the magnificently restored surroundings of Beeleigh, or the dinners held in Monaco where they based themselves for a time in the last couple of decades. There, Christopher became close to Prince Albert and the Easyjet founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou, both of whom became supporters of the Air League that Christopher founded in the Principality to give scholarships to budding aviators.

Christopher did not inherit Beeleigh from Christina, who left her entire £60 million estate to the Foyle Foundation, a charity for learning, education and the arts. So he had to buy the house at market value from the trustees. That he managed to do so was a tribute to his business acumen, though he regretted that he could only afford to buy around 40 per cent of the superb library that his grandfather had created.

Christopher Foyle was appointed a Deputy Lord Lieutenant in Essex in 2007 and was

appointed OBE in the Queen’s birthday honours this year. Having contracted a rare form of cancer, he fought heroically for years against the illness, never complaining, never far from laughter. Even in his final days he maintained his stoicism without a shred of self-pity. He is survived by his wife Catherine, by their three daughters and by a son from a previous relationship.

William Richard Christopher Foyle died 10th August 2022.

HOLFORD, MC (1957, B)

Michael was born on 12th February 1944, the elder son of Rear Admiral “Bunny” Holford CB DSC and Priscilla Holford (née Micklem). He was happily married to Alex (née Bell) since 1967 and had a son Gerald and daughter Arabella. At the age of eight he and his grandmother launched the largest tanker (35,000 tons) in the world (owned by Stavros Niarchos).

He attended St Peter’s Court prep school (now part of Wellesley House) in Broadstairs and joined B Social (Neil Fisher) in the summer term of 1957. He said that he had two great teachers in Dr Cardwell (Chemistry) and Mr Goldsmith (Maths). He also fondly remembered the kindness of Sister Body but he said that one didn’t want to be a malingerer! He left at Christmas in 1961 and went to Argentina spending

9 months travelling and working on an estancia as a gaucho. On his return to the UK he went up to St Andrew’s and obtained a First in Biochemistry. He also got up to mischief. On the final day of the Open the 18th green was mysteriously covered in flashing bollards. In 1966 he joined Unilever as a Management trainee, working in Selby and Manchester.

In 1971 Michael joined Coates Bros, a large manufacturer of printing ink. After two years in the UK, he was sent to New Zealand swiftly becoming the Assistant Managing Director at the age of 30. In 1975 he was moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata) to become the Managing Director of Coates Indian subsidiary. Returning to the UK in 1977, he moved to Bath but was glad to be made redundant shortly after. He joined BTR’s subsidiary Permali, followed in 1984 by Oldham Batteries. Not enjoying the politics, he left after six months and joined the world’s leading international headhunter Spencer Stuart mostly filling FTSE 100 Main Board positions. He had 15 happy years heading up their Industrial Practice. On retirement in 2001 he became a director of Thirsk Racecourse for 15 years and of Armstrong Craven Recruitment for 6 years.

He and Alex travelled extensively all around the world as well as spending three months a year in their house in

the Western Algarve. He loved shooting, was an avid DIYer, renovating seven houses, and was a renowned collector of clocks. He also for a time owned the national collection of the 19th century watercolourists Henry Barlow Carter and his son Joseph Newington Carter. Sadly, downsizing required a large disposal. He was a Freeman of the City of London, a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers and a past Mayor (Master) of the Merchants of the Company of the Staple of England in York.

Michael Charles Holford died on 26th February 2022, aged 78.

LAURENCE, CPG (1964, D)

An extract from the Telegraph obituary, 25 October 2022

Charles Laurence, who has died aged 72, was a newspaper correspondent who covered the 1982 Falklands War for The Sunday Telegraph and later became chief New York correspondent for The Daily Telegraph.

He was born in London on 1st July 1950, the son of Peter (later Sir Peter) Laurence, a diplomat, and his wife Elizabeth, nee Way, and grew up with childhood memories of postings to Cairo, Berlin, and Prague – the last to become the setting of a successful, if controversial, semi-autobiographical thriller which he wrote in retirement. Charlie was educated

Charles Laurence in the Falklands, 1982.

Michael Charles Holford

at Radley where he rebelled against his establishment upbringing – while in the school cadet corps he painted his boots white so that he would get thrown out. From the University of Kent he worked on local newspapers, among them the Leatherhead Advertiser where he would roll up every morning on a big motorcycle in leathers and then take them off, Supermanstyle, to reveal his suit ready for work. Joining the London Evening News later in the 1970s he made his mark as a young reporter at a time of a cut-throat war with the Evening Standard.

Just as delivery drivers would carve each other up in their effort to reach the news vendors first, so reporters had to race to beat their Fleet Street rivals to the stories. Laurence had an advantage: riding an unusually stylish Italian Laverda motorcycle, he would arrive ahead of the pack at many a breaking news story, be it the discovery of a headless corpse in a south London park, or the spotting of a celebrity in the West End.

One lunchtime in the mid-1970s, he raced off to Scott’s in Mount Street, following a tip-off that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor were lunching there privately, having recently married for the second time. As the couple settled down to their meal, in walked the lean, raffish Laurence. Parking his motorbike helmet and grinning broadly, he asked politely for an interview. Not only was he not thrown out, but he was invited to join the couple at their table. Then as Burton, as was his wont, got stuck into the booze, his wife, sotto voce, reached out to the young reporter: “The trouble is, he can’t get it up anymore.” The line was “cleaned up” for the article, but readers were left in no doubt what she meant.

Laurence joined The Sunday Telegraph as a news reporter two years before the Falklands War. He sailed to the South Atlantic in the Canberra with three other Fleet Street men – Max Hastings, Robert Fox, and Patrick Bishop – who would find themselves working together at the Daily Telegraph four years later when Hastings was appointed editor. Morale on board, Laurence reported, was “sky high with the ranks ebullient at the prospect of action” but enjoying the “holiday atmosphere” aboard the ocean liner.

Like his rivals, Laurence had a good war: landing at San Carlos Water with the Royal

Marine Commandos, he joined them on their gruelling 56-mile hike in full kit “across moorland swept by blizzards and in below freezing temperatures.” Apart from a brief period of “ignominy” when he had to be evacuated for treatment to a septic blister on his foot, he remained with the troops to witness the liberation of Port Stanley. It was Laurence who introduced the Commandos’ expression “yomping” into the English vernacular, a term defined as “marching, humping up to 120lb of equipment and all the arms needed for the attack at the far end of the trek.”

Back in London, in November 1982, Laurence attended a regimental dinner at which he was presented with a wall plaque featuring the regimental crest and dedicated to “fond memories of the yomp.” It was given, he was told, as a gesture of the Commandos’ surprise that a “long-haired civvie from The Sunday Telegraph” had been able to “hack it” with them across the ferocious Falklands landscape. “We didn’t think you would last two days, let alone yomp across the island,” he was told. But as he observed: “the truth is that without their generosity and help I would not have survived.”

After switching from the Sunday to The Daily Telegraph, Laurence was posted to New York to become secondin-command to the illustrious chief correspondent Ian Ball. Already a dedicated follower of American history and culture (he had read American Studies at university), Laurence fell in love with the city. Under the wing of the stylish Ball, who was approaching an age at which he was happy for the younger man to hit the road while he manned the bureau, Laurence found himself making road trips to all the corners of the US: one day the return of buffalo on the Great Plains, the next a juicy Mob trial in Chicago.

When Ball retired in 1991 there was only one contender and Laurence took on the role with gusto. Whether writing short, sharp reports for the news pages, or “long-form” articles for the Telegraph Magazine, Laurence was in his element.

In 1994 he visited a Michigan Militia “bootcamp” and came back with stories of them shooting at pumpkins with automatic rifles saying: “those boys are

going to get themselves in real trouble one of these days.” The Oklahoma City bombing took place just five months later; one of the perpetrators turned out to be a Michigan native.

If Laurence could meet any of his journalistic heroes on his travels – Tom Wolfe, Hunter S Thompson – so much the better. It was their America he wanted a piece of. Writing about the Beat poets, he once followed Allen Ginsberg into the lavatories at the Whitney Museum of American Art (which was showing a Beats retrospective) to get a quote.

He was a certain kind of Englishman who had to escape the establishment strictures of his background, and New York provided the perfect place to do it. Warm and effusive, he took young Telegraph writers fresh off the tarmac at JFK and relished showing them the ropes, and his favourite bars and restaurants, regaling them with stories, and how the city worked. At ease in any social circle, Laurence was equally happy in the company of editors, actors, rock stars, Wall Street buccaneers, or ne’er-do-wells. The common theme was whether they were interesting. He was too sophisticated to be impressed by celebrity.

In retirement from the Telegraph, he moved from the city to Woodstock, upstate New York, and continued to write for magazines and journals in the UK. Laurence’s property dealings were legendary: at one stage, he decided to buy a tin-roofed cottage on the beach of Salt Cay, one of the Turks and Caicos islands. Buffeted by storms, constantly cut off from the outside world, it was a typically bold Laurentian experiment and one his beloved wife, Laura Johnson, remained to be convinced by when her husband finally sold it after one hurricane too many.

Laurence’s sartorial style – leather jacket and black jeans – had a flavour of Steve McQueen, and latterly he favoured linen, and suede loafers. Looking for a suitable car for his retirement, having handed on his Yamaha bike to his son Luke, he hunted down a stylish red convertible Jaguar XK8 to a classic car dealership in New Jersey. A few weeks before his death from lung cancer he drove it with Luke, heading west to Cedar Falls, Iowa, where he and Laura had just bought a second

home. It was to be his last road trip. He is survived by his wife, Laura Johnson, an arts administrator at New York’s Lincoln Centre, and by Luke and Charlotte, his children from a previous marriage to Mia Scammell, a former fashion journalist with the Evening News.

Charles Peter George Laurence died 23rd October 2022.

WILSON, WA (1966, C)

Bill Wilson, son of Captain J M A Wilson, was born in Emsworth, and along with his brothers C M and J St J Wilson, attended Radley as a member of C Social. He went on to gain a BA in Geography & Sociology at the University of Sheffield, followed by Solicitors’ Professional Exams at the College of Law, before being admitted as a solicitor in 1978. He worked as a solicitor in Bristol and London for six years.

A change of heart led him to return to university at Durham, where he completed a BA in Theology in 1985, and then a Certificate of Ministerial Education in 1985. Bill was ordained as a minister in the Church of England by the Bishop of Southwark in Southwark Cathedral on 6th October 1985. He was curate at Emmanuel Church, South Croydon, from 1985-89, and curate at All Saints with Holy Trinity, Wandsworth, from 1989-93.

In 1994 Bill moved to France and became chaplain to the English Speaking Church

of Fontainebleau for six years, he also taught English as a foreign language. In 2000 he returned to England and continued to serve the community as vicar at St Stephen’s, South Lambeth, until his retirement in May 2021.

Revd William Adam Wilson died on 14th August 2022, aged 69.

JOHNSTON, RL (1970, F)

Written by Nicholas Bayley (1966, A)

Robert Johnston died unexpectedly aged only 69. He flashed like a comet through the skies of Radley in the year 1970-1971, leaving bright memories for many of us, including, I know, Huddy and Dennis Silk, both of whom he kept in touch with over the years. It is no surprise that the impressions he left were very different for each of us (rebel, Social Prefect, guitarist …). He was even known by several different names during his life – Bob at Radley, Bobby to his brother, Logan to all his adult friends.

Born in 1952 in Los Angeles, Robert made a formidable impact in F Social during his gap year on an English Speaking Union scholarship between leaving Harvard School in California and going to Harvard University. At Radley, he played a lot of music, discovered a passion for literature (subsequently changing his life by switching to English Literature from Engineering at Harvard).

To the delight of many of us at the time, Robert brought a Morgan 4/4 sports car to College, an incident which Warden Silk handled with very great wisdom. His report at the end of his year says, ‘It was sad to see that familiar gangling American figure shouldering his belongings and heading back West again, but warming to think what an enormous contribution he has made here … [above all] his concern for and interest in other people.’ Throughout his adult life, Robert credited Radley with giving him his true education. He often said that he had learned more in one year at Radley than he had in all the years of schooling before that. He believed the Dons at Radley taught him how to write and think critically.

Known as Logan from Harvard days, he met his dearly loved wife Phyllis

Gardiner as a student. He was devoted to her. Their happy married life was based at her family home in Gardiner, Maine. While Phyllis worked as a lawyer, Robert pursued careers in publishing, including co-founding Harpswell Press. He was involved in City and State politics. Then he was a bookstore consultant. In the past 20 years he and Phyllis ran a grass-fed beef farm. He was on the Board of the Maine Organic Farmers & Gardeners Association. That sounds a lot, but Robert also involved himself energetically in the life of the Gardiner family, as well as the life of the city of Gardiner, while never losing touch with his own parents and brother. His involvement with people was infectious and selfless. Serving as a Gardiner City councillor for eight years, he also, together with Phyllis, helped found a local performing arts centre and lead, for over thirty years, the campaign to renovate the 19th century Johnson Hall in Gardiner (which this very year achieved its funding target). The obituary in a Gardiner local newspaper said that Robert ‘made his life’s work the betterment of this community.’

Phyllis has said that it was only after his death that she discovered just how many people he had known and modestly helped. At his funeral in Gardiner, Maine, earlier this year, the Mayor, Patricia Hart, described how she would anticipate his many visits to her office to give her support and advice. She wept at his funeral, saying: ‘He didn’t just talk about the things he cherished, he took action.’ She described how he would sometimes kneel (he was very tall) in front of her desk to help her to see ‘eye to eye’ with his views.

Robert took great pride and joy in his son, Philip, (particularly his choice of career as a teacher), and Philip’s wife and daughter, Katherine and Margot. Sadly, he died before his second granddaughter was born.

Bob was an astonishing man of many talents, and a dear friend to me for 52 years. His greatest gift was the loving, unobtrusive, and unswerving support of his wife, his family, his friends, his neighbourhood and everyone he ever met.

Robert Lawrence Johnston died on 22nd May 2022

◀ Robert Lawrence Johnston

2023

Radleian Society Events

• University Suppers – Late January 2023, Bristol & Bath

• Radleian Society AGM – 10th May 2023, London

• Old Radleian Day – 16th September 2023, Radley College

• OR Dinner – 14th November 2023, London

• Young OR Christmas Drinks – Early December 2023, London

Contact: radsoc@radley.org.uk, 01235 548 574

Radley Foundation Events

• Foundation Donor Event – 4th March 2023, Radley College

• Vyvyan Hope Society Luncheon – 21st May 2023, Radley College

Contact: foundation@radley.org.uk, 01235 548 574

RADLEIAN SOCIETY Radley College, Abingdon, OX14 2HR