The Suttonian 1951 (Lent Term)

THE

SUTTON IAN

LENT TERM 1951

CONTENTS

PAGE

Editorial ..

35

School Officials

36

School Notes

36

Valete

37

Salvete

37

Our Contemporaries

38

Middle School Plays

38

The Christmas Term Rag Concert, 1950

39

Football Matches ..

40

Football Retrospect, 1950-51

43

Boxing and Gymnastics ..

44

Cinema Notes

45

Society Notes

45

Hunting Society

16

Music Society

47

Choral Society—Handel's " Messiah "

48

Excavations and Renovations

49

County Assizes ..

50

Original Contributions

50

C.C.F. Notes

52

Shooting Notes

54

Scout Notes

56

Fives Notes

57

Cross-Country Retrospect

59

Athletics Retrospect

62

Library Notes

64

Chapel Notes

64

O.S. Notes ..

65

Correspondence

67

THE SUTTONIAN No. 214 (No. 2 of Volume XXVII)

LENT TERM, 1951

Ed itorial F there existed such a publication as "Notes for an Editorial" there would here be one eager purchaser, for at present the notes for this editorial consist of pages of phrases and words, all of which have been obliterated. The pages are illustrated by numerous doodled hieroglyphics—a possible source of sympathetic amusement.

Also would be appreciated a book explaining just why editorials have to be. They cause, or this one has caused, procrastination and a feeling of wretched shortcoming until the whole issue waits to be printed while some innocuous phrases are shabbily combined.

As is usual, so much has taken place this term that there has been but scant time for relaxation ; and the weather, nearly the introductory topic—and that is an admission !—has caused everyone great and extra worry. The outdoor activities were often drastically curtailed or condensed, except, apparently, the triumphantly successful shooting season, while the fewer indoor pursuits flourished, and of these the music especially. But yet the magazine is late in its termly appearance, an occurrence largely due to the intent to provide a complete review of this last term's functions. There is small appeal in the vision of August sunbathers learning who won which race under what appallingly cold and muddy conditions.

Fresh ideas replacing those hackneyed and stale are generally welcomed, being appreciated by some more than is essentially deserved. But just as often the initial gloss soon tarnishes and the new present is viewed as being as dull as, or worse than, the old past. The early admirers become despisers. With rare exceptions so kind a reception was extended to the tentatively altered aspect last term of this magazine that it has been deemed safe to maintain it so, only correcting the position of the contents page, a silly error pointed out by many interested readers. How long this present will be in favour is a matter for serious conjecture. If it remains so, then it must be worth its generous recognition ; if, as is always likely, progress affects the general attitude towards this small edition, then it must once more try to advance.

Hope and anticipation accompany this issue to the print, while its present producer, now unemployed, apprehensively awaits the outcome. All the while he is composing, at least mentally, a booklet of probably cynical amusement entitled "Thoughts concerning an Editorial."

THE SUTTONIAN

36

School Officials

School Notes

Head of School : 0. G. D. Goldfinch School Prefects : J. K. Randall S. W. T. Cullen T. G. Booer House Prefects : St. Margaret's : Westminster : J. Rapson-Edgar J. B. Poole A. Travers J. S. Fulljames A. D. J. Moise B. H. Lewis I. N. Wilcockson A. K. Bartlett C. F. Smith B. A. Fothergill P. A. Long C. L. R. Hart M. G. Earp Day Boys : F. G. Pyne Sports Committee : The Headmaster (President) R. L. Kay, Esq. C. F. Smith E. A. Craven, Esq. I. N. Wilcockson N. P. Bentley, Esq. S. W. T. Cullen J. W. Thompson, Esq. J. K. Randall J. S. Fulljames 0. G. D. Goldfinch Rugby Football : S. W. T. Cullen (Captain) J. K. Randall (Hon. Secretary) Athletics (Track) : J. Rapson-Edgar (Captain) Athletics (Cross-Country) : I. N. Wilcockson (Captain) Fives : J. S. Fulljames (Captain) Shooting : A. Travers (Captain) T. R. Hills (Hon. Secretary) Library Committee : The Headmaster (President) L. N. Harvey, Esq. (Librarian) 0. G. D. Goldfinch (Hon. Secretary) A. D. J. Moise J. B. Poole T. G. Booer P. A. Long R. F. Budd S. W. T. Cullen Magazine Committee : P. A. Long 0. G. D. Goldfinch (Editor) A. D. J. Moise T. G. Booer J. B. Poole (Assistant Editor)

J. K. Randall has been appointed Head of Westminster.

T. G. Booer has been appointed a School Prefect.

C. F. Smith and P. A. Long have been appointed House Prefects in St. Margaret's.

M. G. Earp has been appointed a House Prefect in Westminster.

A. D. J. Moise and J. B. Poole have been elected to the Magazine Committee.

The following, last term, gained the School Certificate of the Oxford and Cambridge Joint Board : D. C. Dodd, J. Rapson-Edgar, C. L. R. Hart, I. J. Lockhart and N. M. Norman.

Football Colours have been awarded to E. J. L. Harbott.

2nd XV Colours have been awarded to A. K. Bartlett and B. A. Fothergill.

Athletics Colours (Cross-Country) have been awarded to B. A. Fothergill, N. J. Noyes-Brown, G. L. Plommer, J. K. Randall, A. Travers and 0. G. D. Goldfinch.

Fives Colours have been awarded to B. D. Hough, P. B. Leonard and P. G. Baxter.

Miniature Range Shooting Colours have been awarded to T. R. Hills, C. F. Smith, J. S. Fulljames, J. K. Randall, P. B. Leonard, J. Rapson-Edgar and D. S. Prentice.

We welcome here this term, as assistant masters, F. G. Fennell, Esq., B.Sc., D. Waters, Esq., B.A., who is here for two terms, and G. Pearson, Esq., B.A., who is here for one term.

We welcome also Miss D. A. Warren as School Matron in place of Miss G. E. Thorn, whom we were sorry to see go at the end of last term.

37

THE SUTTONIAN The following represented the School in the Public Schools Seven-a-Sides Tournament at Richmond on Wednesday, April 4: S. W. T. Cullen, P. R. Anderson, C. R. G. Cullen, B. H. Lewis, J. K. Randall, C. F. Smith and I. N. Wilcockson.

On Friday, February 23, we were delighted once again to welcome a party from Ashford High School at a dance, held in the School Hall. We would like to thank the Headmaster for arranging so enjoyable an evening for us and also Miss Warren for feeding everyone so well. It was very pleasant to see Miss Brake once again, and we hope - that this institution will last for many years to come.

We would like to thank Guy Butler, the A.A.A. photographer, for the very instructive and interesting talk he gave us on " Athletics " in the School Hall, on Tuesday, February 27. He showed us films he had himself taken of the last European Games, which were very greatly appreciated.

Also our warmest thanks must go to Captain J. Noel, the official photographer of the Mount Everest Expedition, in which Malory and Irving, in reaching the highest point ever gained by man, lost their lives. In a lantern lecture he gave us on March 9 he conducted us, by means of some beautiful photographic slides, from the foot-hills of India, through Tibet and then up Mount Everest. His story of beauty, endurance and daring engrossed everyone present and we were sorry when he ended.

On Saturday, March 3, a party from the School went to East Mailing Church to see a performance of T. S. Eliot's "Murder in the Cathedral."

We are very sorry to learn that Mr. Craven has had to have another operation on his leg, which was badly

twisted and splintered in an accident at the end of last term. We all hope he will recover soon and well, and we look forward to seeing him here again as soon as is possible.

It was with great pleasure that we learnt that Mr. T. M. James, our late Headmaster, had recovered and was very much better after his operation last term.

The Captains of Football, Fives and Athletics wish to thank all members of the staff who have helped with the games this term.

The Magazine Committee would like to thank all masters and boys who have contributed to this term's magazine.

Valete (M.-1946).-1947, 2nd XI Cap, Colts XV Colours, Dramatic Society ; 1948, Choral Society, Cross-Country XII, House Athletics Team, School Cert.

(Matric.), Cert. "A," L/Cpl. in J.T.C., 2nd XV Colours ; 1949, Cross-Country VIII, School Athletics Team, Library Committee, Magazine Committee, House Tennis Team, House Prefect, Sjt. in C.C.F. ; 1950, Athletics Colours (Cross.

Country), Public Schools Cross-Country VI, House XI, Captain House Tennis, Higher Cert., School Prefect, Head of House, Head of School, Hon, Sec. Library Committee, Editor of the Magazine, Chairman of the Hunting Society, Capt. 2nd XV, Hon. Sec. Sports Committee ; 1951 Country Life' Team Leader. Awarded a Governors' Leaving Exhibition. Admitted as a commoner to Pembroke College, Oxford.

0. G. D.

GOLDFINCH

Salvete IV.—M. E. C. Rayner (H.).

FORM LOWER IV.-M. Seeman (H.) A. T. Stimpson (H.).

FORM III.-J. J. E. Keeley (brother of C. T. Keeley, 0.S.) (B.), C. Knox (H.).

FORM FL—W. D. Bailey (son of Major W. A. R. Bailey, 0.S.) (B.), J. S. Payn (grandson of 0. G. Jones, 0.S.) (L.).

FORM

UPPER

38

THE SUTTONIAN

Our Contemporaries The Magazine Committee gratefully acknowledges the receipt of the following, and apologises for any omissions :— The Aldenhamian, The Blundellian, The Cranbrookian, The Cranleighan, The Dovorian, The Dog Watch, The

Edward Alleyn Magazine, The Fettesian, The Georgian, The Gresham, The Ipswichian, The Lawrentian, The Maidstonian, The Mill Hill Magazine, The Portcullis, The Roffensian, The Rossallian, The School Tie, The St. Edmund's School Chronicle, The Sennockian, The Tonbridgian.

Middle School Plays AST term, on December 12, after the House Match, two one-act plays, "A Night at an Inn" and "The Knave of Hearts," were presented in the Hall

by Bennett and Holdgate Houses respectively.

L

A NIGHT AT AN INN Characters :

C. E. SLATER. A. E. Scott-Fortescue (The Toff) .

D. J. CAPON. William Jones (Bill) . .

J. P. WARD. Albert Thomas . . . M. A. HOLFORD. Jacob Smith (Sniggers) Priests of Klesh . . P. J. G. PENDRED, R. P. RUTTER, I. M. MCIVER. J. BATEMAN. Klesh .

Producer : F. T. W. BLATCHLEY-HENNAH. The renting of an inn—apparently complete with stock—was only one of the brilliant schemes evolved by the Toff ; one wonders how the author expected his Cockney gang to remain sober under such tempting conditions. However, there they were, with only a modest bottle or two between them, making plans for their future while the Toff remained haughtily aloof behind his newspaper. These three toughs were well played and one already noted the contrast of character between Sniggers and the other two. Naturally the Toff's plans, as gradually disclosed, turned out to be far more subtle than theirs, and his brains combined with their brawn were altogether too much for the simple-minded Priests of Klesh. These latter had to confine themselves to a grunt or a gurgle, but all the same they managed to infuse character into their sinister entrances and their ignominious exits after dispatch by Bill and his merry men.

But even the Toff had reckoned without Klesh himself. Bateman was able to make a suitably awe-inspiring figure of the idol, and his blind gropings towards his eye, contrasted with his purposeful exit once it was back in its socket, were cleverly done.

It was difficult to produce an atmosphere of horror on such an open stage, but the effort was very creditably made and the cast succeeded in avoiding the perilously easy transition from melodrama to farce.

•

••

•

THE SUTTONIAN

39

THE KNAVE OF HEARTS

Characters : The Manager Blue Hose .

Yellow Hose Herald Pompdebile V III Chancellor .

The Knave .

Lady Violetta Ursula Pages

.

C. S. POWELL D. F. ELTRINGHAM M. D. J. BARROW A. F. PEARCY R. M. BATTEN R. A. GRIFFIN D. A. COLLET . P. LATHAM J. L. LYNCH D. W. WAITE, D. W. GARTSIDE

Producer : A. B. DERRICK. This play provided us with a complete contrast and, from the grisly affairs of Klesh, we were transported to the fairyland kingdom of King Pompdebile. Here at last, as the dignified Manager explained to us, was the vindication of that muchmaligned character, the Knave of Hearts, who was to be revealed as a hero indeed.

And so, at the Manager's signal, the puppets sprang to life and the play began. In the royal palace the two champion pastry cooks were preparing for the ordeal by tarts" of the Lady Violetta. Barrow was unquestionably in his element and, apart from his obvious advantages in the part, his range of expression, from ecstasy to despair as the play proceeded, was remarkable.

The King himself, after a nervous start which might well have been explained by his doubts as to the Lady Violetta's culinary powers, was successfully amorous and overbearing in turns while, in the voice of his Chancellor, one seemed to hear the dry crackle of legal documents.

It is no disparagement to the rest of the cast to say that Latham's Lady Violetta sustained the play. It was a long and trying part, yet he never faltered and the producer must have been delighted to find such a faithful interpreter. Her—one must say "her "—by-play with the King was beautifully done. The Knave was not always quite audible, but convinced us that his "knavish tricks" were done with the highest motives. The smaller parts were all competently taken, and the grouping and patterns of colour all betrayed the expert guiding hand.

Altogether this was a most enjoyable evening and the members of the two houses are to be congratulated on their contributions towards its success.

The Christmas Term Rag Concert, 1950 HE test of a rag of any nature is whether or not there is present an atmosphere T

of freedom; of abandon. This was delightfully apparent at this concert, and as we have been informed that there was a necessary spontaneity in the individual productions, this was, in all probability, partly the reason for the happy atmosphere.

However, the source was, we believe, the natural humour of the participants who, needless to say, were of the right temperament for such antics.

THE SUTTONIAN

40

The programme included a portrayal of alleviated pedantry with the "masters' meeting " ; an attractive vocal effort ; a display of surprisingly mature conjuring ; a highly amusing representation of a scene in a nursing home ; a clever comparison was drawn between Headmasters—past and present. We regarded a "day at the races " as very instructive ; and, of course, the eternally intriguing drama of the dining-hall was represented—as also was the drama of the lamented luggage of a character suitable for inclusion alongside his next of kin in the work of Mr. Kenneth Grahame.

The gaps in the show were filled in pleasantly by the " piano-rolls" of Pyne.

Everyone, whether taking part on the stage or in the body of the hall, thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and so may we congratulate our entertainers for a truly merry evening ?

Football Matches School v. St. Lawrence College Played on the Upper on Saturday, December 9, and won by the School by two tries (6 points) to nil.

This match, postponed from early term on account of hard grounds, brought out the best display the home side had given this season. This was despite changes necessary in the centre, where Anderson took the place of the absent Harloe with considerable success in attack, even if his defence was not so robust as the latter's.

The foundation of Sutton's win was laid by the forwards, who gained a superiority, as far as getting the ball was concerned, right at the start of the game, and never let up at all. At their heels Smith played well and, with so good a supply of the ball, the backs played well, being much straighter in their running than heretofore. That the forwards did a good job was evident every time the St. Lawrence • centres had the ball, and it was only by very sound defence that they were subdued. The two scores that Sutton did gain were brilliant efforts, and nothing was so spectacular as a run by C. R. G. Cullen to score our second try. He seemed to

waltz along the left touchline from the 25-yards line to the corner-flag, and his final sidestep past the full-back was a chasse worthy of Victor Sylvester. It seemed impossible to avoid touch, but he managed it incredibly.

Team : I. J. Lockhart ; P. B. Leonard, P. R. Anderson, J. S. Fulljames, S. W. T. Cullen; C. R. G. Cullen, C. F. Smith ; .1. K. Randall, R. Whittington-Inee, I. N. Wileockson, B. H. Lewis, P. M. L. 0. Longford, E. J. L. Harbott, A. D. J. Moise, J. Rapson-Edgar.

The House Match Played on the Upper on Tuesday, December 12, and resulting in victory for St. Margaret's by one goal and one penalty goal (8 points) to two tries (6 points).

In ideal conditions this game contained many thrills and many anxious moments, both for the players and for the enthusiastic spectators. The first half saw the establishment and final realisation of a powerful St. Margaret's attack ; the second half saw the same team pressed down on its own line and so much so that its ultimate victory was to many almost unbelievable.

After an even start St. Margaret's took the initiative and maintained a steady attack on the Westminster line at the pavilion end of the pitch. Although

THE SUTTONIAN it lacked any outstanding individual, the side combined well and in about the twentieth minute Rapson-Edgar, following up a good penetrative run by S. W. T. Cullen, picked up a loose ball and went over ; Smith converted well.

Then, three minutes later, Smith increased the score with a penalty goal. The rest of the half was a period of continued supremacy for St. Margaret's in spite of some strong counter-attacks well led

by Randall.

The second half began with a furious onslaught by Westminster, resulting after about seven minutes in a spectacular try by Fulljames which was not converted. Five minutes later Fothergill ran over to score again for Westminster.

The rest of the game must have been enough to have filled any team's hearts with despair—mice only, near the end, did St. Margaret's reach the deserted Westminster half of the pitch, and very rarely were the defenders allowed outside their own twenty-five. Attack after attack penetrated the St. Margaret's defence, which was handicapped by the loss of Lockhart, who had gone off with concussion, only to be ruined by a bad pass or by careless handling, or by a last-minute crash tackle. Time and again one blue-topped figure would touch the ball down an instant before he was swamped by a rush of whites. In spite of it all, the continued attack was thwarted and the final whistle, which announced the recovery of the cup by St. Margaret's, must have seemed long in coming.

The game was hard and fast and was won by the team that combined and lasted better. Retrospection is very ineffective, but if Smith's second kick had missed, as it so nearly did, and if one less Westminster pass had been

41

dropped, or if one of their many secondhalf penalty kicks had succeeded, the tale would certainly have been very different. Westminster left it just too late, but St. Margaret's rose to the occasion in an unexpected manner with every man playing like a fanatic. The cup was presented to Wilcockson by Mrs. Aspinall.

TEAMS:— St. Margaret's: I. J. Lockhart ; P. B. Leonard, A. Travers, G. Hoeltschi, S. W. T. Cullen ; C. R. G. Cullen, C. F. Smith; R. F. Budd, D. C. Dodd, I. N. Wilcockson (Capt.), P. D. Hull, D. A. Potter, J. RapsonEdgar, A. D. J. Moise, P. A. Long.

Westminster : B. D. Hough ; C. L. R. Hart, P. R. Anderson, A. M. Patton, B. A. FothergIll ; J. S. Fulljames, M. B. Toler ; R. Whittington-Ince, A. K. Bartlett, J. K. Randall (Capt.), B. H. Lewis, P.M. L. 0. Longford, M. S. Everest, E. J. L. Harbott, T. J. Maher.

School v. Ton bridge R.F.C. Colts Played at Tonbridge on Saturday, January 27, resulting in a win for the School by three tries (9 points) to nil.

Played in ideal conditions, the game was at all times hard, but a trifle slow.

The first half was extremely even ; the School pack, although harassed, gave a good display—especially in the line-out.

Both sides were pressing for an advantage, and Fulljames, Lewis and Anderson stood out with some heroic tackling.

In the second half the School used the wind effectively, with an excellent display of tactics. From a cross-kick by Fulljames, Randall almost scored. However, the scoring opened when C. R. G. Cullen slipped his man and made half an opening for S. W. T. Cullen, who sold a dummy and dived over the line to score. A few minutes later the same player dribbled over to score again. The Sutton dash and vigour was telling, and Wilcockson, Lewis and Leonard dribbled sixty yards for Randall to score.

In spite of the spoiling of the Town's forwards, Sutton played an open game,

42

THE SUTTONIAN

with Lewis, Randall, Wilcockson and Harbott passing very well amongst the forwards—a well deserved win for the School.

Team : I. J. Lockhart ; P. B. Leonard, J. S. Fulljames, S. W. T. Cullen, P. R. Anderson ; C. It. G. Cullen, C. F. Smith ; J. K. Randall, R. Whittington-Ince, I. N. Wileockson, B. H. Lewis, P. M. L. 0. Longford, E. J. L. Harbott, A. D. J. Moise, J. Rapson-Edgar.

School v. Saracens Gypsy XV Played on B.M. on Saturday, February 17, resulting in a win for the Saracens by a try (3 points) to nil.

Conditions for this game were the worst they had been this season and, consequently, attractive rugger was out of the question. However, good rugger was seen. In a game between the packs, the heavier Saracens dominated the tight, but were not so fast in the loose.

Outside, the styles of play were different ; the School backs made ground by the kick and follow ; the Saracens by short bouts of passing. Neither defence ever showed any signs of cracking—it was obvious that the snap try would win the match.

And so it was. At the start of the second half, the Saracens' scrum-half, finding his threes marked, dived through the forwards, flung an outside pass, and the wing just beat a closing defence.

Thereupon, the School pack flung everything into the fray with some magnificent combined foot-rushes, probably tlie best of the season, with Lewis, Rapson-Edgar, Randall and Wilcockson prominent.

Fulljames in the centre tried all he knew, but on a slippery surface his guile was of little avail. The Saracens just managed to hold out, and were, perhaps, a trifle lucky to win.

Team : 1. J. Lockhart ; P. B. Leonard, S. W. T. Cullen, J. S. Fulljames, P. R. Anderson ; C. R. G. Cullen, C. F. Smith ; J. K. Randall, D. C. Dodd, I. N. Wilcockson, B. R. Lewis, P. M. L. 0. Longford, E. J. L. Harbott,

A. D. J. Home, J. Rapson-Edgar.

School v. R.A.F., West Mailing Played on B.M. on Wednesday, February 21, resulting in a win for the R.A.F., West Mailing, by two goals and two tries (16 points) to nil.

Although very wet underfoot, the game was comparatively open, being a complete contrast to that of the previous Saturday. A fast R.A.F. team, opening up the game on every possible occasion, always looked dangerous. In fact, they scored a try in the first minute of the game—a kick ahead by the outside half, and a quick follow-up, gave Lockhart no chance on the slippery surface. After this shock, the School rallied, and the forwards steadily tried to wear down the opposition. However, the visitors' side, which included several first-class club players, never looked like cracking.

Dropped passes, and a tendency to kick the ball away once it had been taken, lost us two possible tries. The School backs seemed to have little rhyme or reason about their play, with the exception of Fulljames. The tries need little description, except that a very lively scrum-half had a major part in two of them. Our line-out play was considerably better than it had been, and the pack, with Lewis, Harbott and Randall outstanding, although against only seven men, could not force a definite superiority over the R.A.F. At full back, Lockhart handled well, but found it difficult to negotiate the slippery turf. Our wings seemed hesitant at going for the line, and Anderson invariably essayed the inside pass, though on the occasions that he went straight for the line he looked surprisingly dangerous.

Team : I. J. Lockhart ; P. B. Leonard, J. S. Fulljanies, S. W. T. Cullen, P. It. Anderson ; C. R. G. Cullen, C. F. South; J. K. Randall, R. Whittington-Ince, I. N. Wileockson, B. 11. Lewis, P. M. L. 0. Longford, E. J. L. Harbott, A. 1). J. Moise, J. Rapson-Edgar.

THE SUTTONIAN School v. Wasps Extra "A " XV Played on B.M. on Saturday, February 21, resulting in a win for the Wasps by one goal and one penalty goal (8 points) to one goal (5 points).

In conditions more suited to " Diehards " than to rugger, there was no lack of hard, good play. Being the last game of the season, it was obvious to all that the XV intended to win. They played to win, and all but did during the last breathtaking minutes. It was a tale of relentless covering, with never an inch given. It was, too, a forward struggle from first to last, with our forwards giving their best defensive display of the season ; there were no passengers in the team at all.

In this terrific obsession to win an offside blunder was committed, and a penalty goal was landed by the Wasps.

At half-time the pace was beginning to tell on them, and twice, foot-rushes, with Lewis, Longford—playing his best game

43

of the season—and Whittington-Ince to the fore, almost crossed their line. In the line-out, the Sutton lethargy was completely gone, and in the tight, although outweighted, we gained possession of the ball far more than the Wasps.

S. W. T. Cullen and Fulljames looked particularly dangerous in the centre, but covering stopped their advance.

Late in the second half, a scrum under our posts was pushed over the line for a try. A few minutes later, Fulljames pounced on to a dropped pass, and dribbled three-quarters of the length of the field to score ; Smith converted.

But, alas, in spite of our redoubled efforts forward, we could not score again.

A very good game, with the School playing with more knowledge than hitherto.

Team : I. J. Lockhart ; P. B. Leonard, J. S. Fulljames, S. W. T. Cullen, P. It. Anderson ; C. R. G. Cullen, C. I'. Smith ; J. K. Randall, R. Whittington-Ince, I. N. Wilcockson, B. H. Lewis, P. M. L. 0. Longford, E. J. L. Harbott, A. D. J. Moise, J. Rapson-Edgar.

Football Retrospect, 1950-51 Played 15; Won 4; Lost 11; Drawn 0 Points for, 74; Points against, 116 HE above is a statistical statement of a football season during which the School side gradually improved and finally became an attractive combination. We have not been able to repeat the 1941 side's unbeaten record, but rugger is a game which has developed through the years, to be one for the enjoyment of players, in the first place. Judged on this standard, the season just finished has been a great success.

The gradual change from the firm grounds of October to the quagmires of February has made necessary a steady change in technique to keep the game moving.

Long spells of fine weather put the emphasis on back play, while rain such as we have experienced during the Lent term has made " old-fashioned " forward play of prime necessity. 1950-51 has given us all these conditions, and the general standard of football throughout the School has greatly improved in its all-round technique.

The team settled down rather slowly, and it was not for several weeks that Lockhart finally returned to his full-back position of last year, and C. R. 0. Cullen migrated from the turmoil at the base of the scrum to the comparatively gentle

T

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THE SUTTONIAN

position of stand-off half. This change brought a great improvement both in attack and defence, and the final composition of the back division was reached by the middle of November. The strength of the attack rested mainly with Fulljames, who was very quick to take advantage of his opponents' errors, and scored a number of good tries. The defence of S. W. T. CulMn and Leonard was really grand and, without belittling the others, these two rose to great heights (or should it be : fell to great depths) in this matter. Cullen also was, as last year, a great snapper-up of opportunities.

The forwards had sorted themselves out rather earlier than this, and improved steadily when the leadership was taken over by Wilcockson, a fierce player whose lead was by no means only vocal. Randall and Lewis always played well, and when the newer members of the pack had learned that rugger is rather fun really, the whole eight was rarely mastered, except by actual weight in tight scrummaging when the club games came in the Lent term. The pack itself scored several fine tries after long rushes of a type most demoralising to the opposition's defence.

During the first half of the season the captaincy was entrusted to Harloe, and during the second half he was succeeded by S. W. T. Cullen. They each carried out the dual task of organisation off, and leadership, on the field with zeal and efficiency, and much of the credit for a good season rests on them both.

For several years the Under-15 and Under-14 sides have done well, and this year was no exception. The Under-15 XV started badly, but soon began to play very well indeed, and their games against King's School, Canterbury, were excellent ones. The Under-14 XV also showed good form on all occasions. So, too, did the very " tiny ones " both in their soccer and rugger.

Lastly, the best of all, we have to record a rise in enthusiasm and efficiency in those games which provide no School teams, and enjoy no limelight. They now are playing better football, and enjoying it far more, than for several years past, and this improvement must bring a later one in teams of the next year or two.

2nd XV ..

Under-15 XV Under-14 XV

Played 7 10 6

OTHER TEAMS Won Lost 2 S 4 5 5 1

Drawn 0 1 0

For 24 59 29

Against 53 143 49

Boxing and Gymnastics

B

OTH these classes are as yet in their infancy and, based on a voluntary system, they have drawn a fairly representative group from the School. But although good progress has been made by all who have attended, they may still be described as fit but few. Owing to the paucity of combatants of like stature for boxing, the original pairing for bouts has been retained throughout the term, and these pairs have been categoried into Senior and Junior sections. Of the more enlightened faction the most promising is Lockhart (I. J.) ; he is a good stylist and does well to rely on nimble footwork as well as his punching. But conspicuous among those who have

THE SUTTONIAN

45

the will to win is Plommer who, while favouring the " agricultural " style, has the necessary grit to supplement his lack of art. Mention may also be made of Stubblefield and, among the Juniors, of Payn and Rutter. However, for the future we should like to see a little more interest displayed by the Senior members of the School.

The Gymnastic class has two good performers in Leonard and Hoad, who carry out the more basic movements with precision. But it may be pointed out that a more confident approach to the progressional work would meet with speedier results for everyone concerned. As with the boxing, this class has two divisions, and in the Junior one good progress has been made by Rutter. In passing, we are informed by the instructor that the performance on the parallel bars of a member of this category is expressive rather of a struggle for existence than a smooth, well-defined movement. Finally, much credit must be given to R.S.M. Sergison for his efforts in forming this nucleus, which we hope will further boxing and gymnastics throughout the School.

S

Cinema Notes ATURDAY evening films this term have been graced with regular performances

of interval music, not always to everybody's taste but, nevertheless, popular enough to make those rather long gaps in the shows just a little more interesting.

Another thing the club has seen this term is, unfortunately, a definite sign of wear and tear—mostly wear—on the projector, but when we remember that it has now had two years of constant use, this is not so surprising.

Finally it must be noted that all our debts have been paid off, and that it is with a clear conscience that we can now buy the necessities we promised ourselves last term.

Society Notes T is very hard to report on the activities of the School societies when those activities have been drastically curtailed. Films, of which there were plenty this term, and sporting activities have provided the chief impediment to any progress. In the first instance, the members of the societies were occupied watching the cinema screen, while in the second, nearly every society was decapitated as its chairman was not returned from representing his school in some athletic pursuit. So the societies were either dormant or helpless.

Reports and personal observations made on the pitifully few evenings when proper meetings could be held revealed, as is usual at this time, initial preparations for the next Speech Day. Of the societies there are three basic gro'ups—those who can and do work in any odd spare moment as well as on all available Saturdays, the most outstanding being the Models, closely followed, in certain directions only, by the N.H.S. ; secondly come the societies who generally only work on Saturdays,

46

THE SUTTONIAN

but could do much more ; and finally those whose very silence bespeaks volumes as to their apathy. Fortunately the last class is now the smallest.

Next term films will be curtailed, but fine weather—if, indeed, it ever comes— will probably act as a further distraction to the activities of the essentially indoor societies. There are only two means of escaping the sad repetition of this term's report—greater concentration and interest from all members and especially an exemplary lead from the societies' chairmen : a rather unlikely event by prevailing standards in certain societies. The other means is the perpetuity of bad weather— which is at present quite a likely prospect.

H unting Society President : The Headmaster Vice-President : F. T. W. Blatchley-Hennah, Esq. Chairman : J. Rapson-Edgar Hon. Secretary : R. F. Budd Clerk of the House : T. G. Booer Committee : 0. G. D. Goldfinch Guardians of the Gavel : D. C. Dodd, G. L. Plommer the depressing reading afforded by last term's account of the Society's A FTER activities, it is pleasant and relieving to be able to write with more hope as concerns the future, and with no true grounds for dismay about the present. For this changed aspect the committee of this term is to be applauded, but, above all, greatest thanks are due to the Chairman, whose keenness alone, besides his other qualities, has done more than anything else to turn the tide of demoralisation.

At the outset the committee, spurred on possibly by the previous condemnations, adopted a policy of furtherance to the Society's designs and to its popularity.

Suggestions were forwarded, and the two most prepossessing, namely, to hold one or even two open meetings a term, proposed by the President, and also to have a Fifth Form debate, were adopted and finally effected. The open meetings could be attended by any member of the Upper School and by any member of the Staff. As a result of this innovation, about one hundred and thirty people, including a number of invited guests from the surrounding district, heard the Vice-President deliver the second part of his " History of the School." This meeting can certainly be accounted a very great success, and in comparison it is sad that at the second open meeting, on March 27, although a satisfactory number from the School attended, not one member of the Staff was present, with the exception of the President, Vice-President and his wife.

The business of this meeting was a debate on the motion that "this House deplores the action of Columbus in discovering America," and opposing the Clerk of the House and the Chairman, Mr. Goldfinch made a final appearance after a long but unavoidable absence. After some quibbling over the interpretation of the wording of the motion, the debate soon resolved itself and the opposition was successful by twenty-nine votes to three.

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47

As a further effort to encourage greater and livelier attendance, a Fifth Form debate was held on February 27, in which no sixth-former was permitted to speak.

This enterprise was well attended and the standard of speaking was gratifyingly high.

The motion that "this House would prefer more sport at this School," proposed by Mr. Fermor and Mr. Prentice, and opposed by Mr. M. J. Bartlett and Mr. Harbott, was defeated by fifteen votes to eight.

The normal Routine Meetings of the Society have witnessed two talks and several debates. The first talk was by J. L. S. Vidler, Esq., Governor of Maidstone Gaol, on "Prison Life," and this opportunity must be taken to thank him for a very pleasant evening ; and the second was a paper on Communism delivered by the Chairman—an example worthy of note. Without doubt the best of the debates was that "this House approves of the removal of the Stone of Scone." After an exciting and amusing evening the motion was defeated by fourteen votes to eight.

In ending this report, it is with gratitude that the committee's thanks are accorded to E. E. Bailey, Esq., for the help he has given in creating an attractive poster to go in the School Block announcing the Society's forthcoming activities.

The attendance under these combined efforts has been increasing steadily, and although the next, the summer, term is usually accounted the worst, it is hoped to continue this improvement. If possible the Society's meetings will be on that evening of the week most suited to the greatest number. Please come if you have the time— it is well worth while.

T. G. B.

Musi c

Society

T

HE Society, still in its infancy, continues to flourish, although activities this term have been restricted to three meetings, with the Members' Evening yet to come.

The first meeting arranged had to be postponed until next term as Mr. Sidney Wenham, tenor, was laid low with the 'flu.

However, David Franklin, an ex-Master, who left Sutton to become a professional singer of considerable renown, gave an excellent start to the term's programme. He showed a large audience that he has a bass voice of outstanding quality and that he is an extremely versatile singer. We only hope that he will come and sing to us again.

This term's programme has included an evening's chamber music, and on February 25 we heard a delightful programme of Haydn and Beethoven, played by the rather unusual combination of flute, oboe, horn, bassoon and piano. The Haydn was well appreciated, especially the second movement, which was the well-known "St. Antoni Chorale." The skill and dexterity of the pianist were shown to good advantage in the Beethoven. The quintet ended their programme with a piece of " fireworks " by a modern French composer, which was a pleasing contrast, and was most enthusiastically received. It was a most enjoyable evening, and we would like to thank Miss Ida Parrish for arranging it for us.

On March 4, Denis Holloway (0.S.) gave a piano recital, showing himself to be a pianist of extremely high calibre. Mr. Holloway not only plays, but "lives "'his

48

THE SUTTONIAN

music, and his energy and enthusiasm spread quickly to his audience. The highlight of this varied and most attractive programme was Beethoven's " Pathetique Sonata."

The term's meetings have been most successful. They have all been in the School hall, which unfortunately lacks an informal atmosphere, but it is hoped to round off the term informally with the Members' Evening Our best thanks go to Pyne for his good work.

E. R. P.

Choral Society HANDEL'S " MESSIAH " Gabrielle Phillips Shiela Young Andrew Gold Anthony Richards •

Soprano Contralto Tenor Bass

Conductor :

Edward Pierssene HE School Choral Society, which has greatly revived recently under the able guidance of Edward Pierssene, Esq., gave two performances of Handel's " Messiah" on Wednesday, March 21, in the School Hall. The Choir, reinforced by several masters, an Old Boy, and a number of friends of the School from outside, and supported by full orchestra, gave a very praiseworthy rendering of the great masterpiece. The soloists, named above, each gave a very inspiring interpretation.

This was indeed a great step forward for the Choral Society, whose members obviously enjoyed this most satisfying music and joined lustily in the great choruses.

The appreciation of good music is one of the great lessons to be learned and one of the joys of life that all should strive to understand. Let us hope that the performance of one of the great oratorios will become an annual event in the life of the School.

R. E. G. F.

T

The following article is reprinted by kind permission of the " Kent Messenger " :—

The Sutton Valence School hall was crowded on Wednesday evening last week for a full performance, by the School Choral Society, of Handel's " Messiah."

Both at the interval and close there was warm applause for the choir of over one hundred voices, and especially for the four principals, who did much to make the occasion a memorable one.

Sheila Young (contralto) sang the alto passages with rich distinction, while Gabrielle Phillips (soprano) provided the equally enjoyable contrast.

Andrew Gold (tenor) and Antony Richards (bass) also gave fine performances in their respective solo arias.

The evening's greatest satisfaction, however, was the clear and powerful rendering by the massed choir. In splendid voice they found complete unison, and reached a standard worthy of great praise.

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49

Edward Pierssene conducted feelingly and with considerable skill, and for this reason it was rather a pity that the orchestra itself did not quite reach the perfect blending and mellowness that would have made the complete rendering an outstanding musical achievement.

Nevertheless, one must not minimise the extreme difficulty which confronts any musician accompanying so massive a work as the "Messiah," and one hopes the Choral Society as a whole will find the opportunity to repeat the work in the near future.

Excavations and Renovations Sundays at School even those fiends of sport who persist in dashing madly O N around have an air of desultoriness in their contortions, while indoors the raucity of Radio Luxembourg is seemingly deadened by the groups of silent figures hunched over some colourful newspaper. No one looks as if he is being, or intends to be, energetic—and then the mirage fades. From the Thanet emerges a band of people dressed as though no one in the world cared for them, and covered with either mud or pulverised plaster. They discuss blisters and assess the amount of work done.

If arrested in their grimy promenade, the muddy ones will prove to be archwologists—for the purposes of this article, excavators. Unfortunately the weather this term, which has been appallingly wet, has caused this breed practically to hibernate, and their progress has been unavoidably small. With the object of unearthing the floor of the medieval keep of the derelict castle of Sutton Valence they intend to dig down atout four or five feet to where they expect to find it ; and then to open an exploratory trench in the hope of confirming or refuting the theory that the castle was built on the site of a Roman watch-tower overlooking the road, in continuation of that section uncovered last year. So far these burrowers have only been able to explore and photograph.

The dusty, plastery group are renovators—otherwise the stalwarts who are doing the School's share in the conversion of the Alms Houses, an enterprise announced last term. The roof has been repaired by builders while these demolishers have this term broken, hammered, and levelled the old floor as a foundation for the new. This task, in which a fair number have shared, is a thankless one entailing much work and but little to show for it. In the holidays the new floor is to be laid and for this a word of thanks must go to a parent, Mr. Aisher, for his offer to have the entire job done by his own firm free of charge—a gift which has been gratefully accepted. Also another parent, G. Keeble, Esq., has kindly undertaken to provide the material for the internal decoration of the Alms Houses ; he is equally to be thanked. So the good work, begun so willingly last term, goes on, and if, as is hoped, the undertaking is complete by Speech Day, the Lord Mayor of London, who is to present the prizes then, will be asked to open the Alms Houses officially.

This much was declared by the spoilers of the general air of reposeful ease. They trudged on up the path, deposited their instruments of discovery or destruction, and vanished indoors to see if any hot water had been left in the showers by those more lackadaisical.

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THE SUTTONIAN

County Assizes "

m'lord."

N OT guilty, A buzz of expectancy runs through the room, dying quickly away. The

jury of" twelve good men and true" is duly sworn in and, in the tense hush, a slight swish of silk is heard as counsel rises to open the case for the prosecution. His clear accents ring through the room, so different from the mumbling tones of the witnesses, and are audible in the most remote corners. With well-chosen phrases he emphasises his points, seeking always to sway the minds of the jury, while over the whole proceedings presides the scarlet figure of the judge. Round him, as its pivot, the cases unfold. He is indeed the focal point, commanding yet unobtrusive, controlling but not dominating, the epitome of fairness but the thundering voice of doom to the convicted felon.

The scene is set in a dignified panelled room, it cannot be called a hall for it is too intimate, and the occasion is the sitting of the County Assizes.

The present tense is used justifiably, for scenes such as this are constantly being enacted in courtrooms all over England ; but for most of us our visit to the Assizes in Maidstone was the first occasion on which we had had the opportunity of viewing, first hand, the administration of British justice. We were, I think, chiefly struck by the intimacy of the whole procedure and the striking fairness and perspicacity of the judge. Furthermore, the gripping drama constantly unfolding before our eyes enabled us to forget the hardness of the seats and the shortage of leg room to such an extent that it required a conscious effort to bring ourselves back to everyday things at the adjournment.

Our thanks are due to the Headmaster for making possible this visit for the senior members of the School on February 26, 27 and 28.

Original Contributions " In The Light of the Moon "

The whirligig of life is smoothed away, The Hunting Goddess rules departing [day; The hamlet sleeping in a ghostly sheen, As eerie as Diana's ghostly mien ; The stars like jewels set in a pitch-black [sea0, jocund, twinkling, pristine company.

A rider gallops through the night, But briefly seen, as briefly out of sight.

In turn, the moon has gazed on many [lands- The icy poles, the desert's silver sands ;

And always brings her peace with steady [gleam, Forgetfulness of toils as in a dream.

Still, still, her soft-laid mantle casts us [o'er— Of universal peace she is the sower.

HESPERUS. The Festival of Sutton One night, when the rain was wet and the sun wasn't shining, wearied from excess of study, the happy thought entered our mind. To save the jolly old School from rack and ruin, as well as badly vegetarians, we would stage a Festival of Sutton.

51

THE SUTTONIAN The opening ceremony would naturally be long and wearisome. Included would be a rendering of the School Song, with a few ballads from the Glee Club, known in sporting circles as the 1st XV. A brass band would put in a stirring appearance.

The two (or is it one?) corps buglers would blow their horns. We regretted that Humphrey Lyttelton would not be available for the occasion. The Head of School would contribute a speech in Latin, which would appear to be a linguistic potpourri. An invitation would then be issued to see the School in normal working conditions. This would, we fear, prove unpopular. The Sixth Form would have their freedom curtailed.

A happy informal air would hang lazily in the classrooms. The masters would teach their pupils with great dignity.

No noise would prevail, just the sight of thirty attentive pupils, and a master talking, while reloading his sawn-off shotgun.

At mealtimes the visitors would be allowed to watch us eating. Doubtless some well-meaning visitors would throw us some stale cake, as they do at the London Zoo. A spot of gentle games-playing would be staged—possibly a game of rugger.

However, for the sake of one's vocabulary, this would have to be regarded from a discreet distance. The reason advanced for this caution would be that one's language is apt to be a trifle unrestricted on these occasions. A comic cricket match could also be staged. This feature would be easy to arrange. The 1st XI would play their usual game, and so provide amusement to those unenlightened members of the world who know nothing of the subtle arts of this game of our ancestors. One wonders whether the bleary pundits up at Lords started the

game off when they were the masterful, capable johnnies of yesteryear.

However, if our guests wanted instructional cricket, no doubt a game starring the Under-14 XI could be arranged.

The School military affair (last time we were on parade, we believe it was known as the 0.T.C., but what is it now ? ) could give an exhibition. The innocents in the recruits, who haven't yet learnt the art of looking untidy, would give a drill demonstration. A visit to the School societies would be short, the Jazz Club would blast everyone's eardrums to pieces with some amplifiers (" Tiger Rag" has been thus heard by the Alps), so that the jostling crowd (we always were optimists) would refrain from carrying on.

At this stage of our dream we fell asleep. Such a Festival would be fun, if it could be realised !

HAPPY-GO-LUCKY.

A Bleat What is the point of running away as fast as our legs can go, And coming back, tired out, in a half an hour or so ?

What is the point of putting on shorts that are freshly white and clean, Then coming back with them covered with mud and our faces a frightening green ?

Why do we run through fields and woods, where the tracks are unsafe and unkind, Making us slide on their slippery face where their edges are nettleweed-fined ?

Why do we run for mile after mile, hating it all the time, On a twisting, turning, treacherous course that lacks all reason or rhyme ?

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THE SUTTONIAN

Can anyone say why we run this race which is torture more than a sport, In which we toil five miles on obstructed ground for a total gain of nought ?

There are no buses for us to catch—no shops that soon will close ; There are only two sticks that mark the end, and our time—well, nobody knows.

There is nothing to gain and plenty to lose in time and vigour and weight ; And all that they say when at last you come in is' hallo 'and you're very late.'

As a result of this criminal forced labour of boys (that it's this you'll all agree) I propose to write as soon as I can to my personally local M.P. ; And if he doesn't stop this merciless slaughter of boys who are frail and meek I will raise up the standard of civil revolt and will over the realm in a week.

But now I must cease in my plans for a while and stop at this crucial place, For I must be off to change and run for my House in the annual Steeplechase !

SHEEPISH.

C.C.F. Notes

S

ELDOM, if ever, in the Chronicles of the Contingent can there have been recorded a worse term from the point of view of weather ; the Cert. " A " syllabus forces us to be largely classroom bound at the best of times, but certainly in the course of the last five years we have not previously been reduced to holding but three full dress ceremonial parades in the course of a whole term, entirely owing to climatic "inclemency." Freezing February phased into moistful March ; Cert. " A" Candidates snatched from time to time a few shivering moments on the " Square" practising re-drill under the patient care of Sjt. Travers ; once or twice the " Gun" has been wheeled out of its garage while Sjt. Booer supervised frenzied applications of lubricant and brasso before they froze in their respective tins, before bowing to the inevitable and taking the newest gun crew to the comparative warmth of the History Classroom to explore more academic problems of ballistics and fire control. Signals, with the added impetus of Cross-Country Matches requiring commentary and control and a given minimum of workable wireless sets, have been observed clad like Chinese Irregulars patrolling the School precincts conducting strange conversations with unseen correspondents with the maximum eloquence but with the most perfunctory attention to standard procedure ; one gathers that the 12-Set is once more in working order from the number of complaints received from Televiewers with whose reception interference has been experienced ; the Travelling Wing, come rain come snow, have persevered in their efforts with the simple single-mindedness of the Regular Army to instruct our Junior Leaders in the principles of instruction as to how to become good schoolmasters, while the devoted band of schoolmasters on our present establishment of Officers have been working extremely hard, teaching schoolboys how best they can get on in the regular army.

However generally inclement the weather, and this term its full viciousness seems to have been specially reserved for Tuesday and Friday afternoons, usually we have been fortunate on the occasions of our Field Days. Operation " Slipshod" was conducted, however, on Friday, March 16, in a depressing drizzle, never serious

THE SUTTONIAN

53

enough to warrant cancellation, but sufficiently persistent as to vitiate initiative.

It was remarkable, therefore, with what spirit the House Platoons carried out their tasks. Each in turn represented a Communist guerilla force lying up in King's Wood briefed to lie concealed and avoid contact with the regular forces so as to live to wreak havoc with lines of communication and sub-area troops ; the other was supposed to constitute a patrol to locate the bandits, and, if possible, clear the wood.

As the commander of the bandits during the first phase of the Exercise, Sjt. Fulljames allowed his partisan zeal such scope that his parties resolved themselves into suicide squads determined above all else to expend the minute allocation of blank allowed. Sjt. Wilcockson, in charge of the attackers, and with Bennett House section complete with Susan, a most imperfectly trained "war-dog," in support, found himself committed with most of his sections in different parts of the wood simultaneously, with the result that both sides would have suffered heavy casualties.

In the afternoon, with reversed roles, the guerillas definitely had the best of it, having a coherent plan of quietly slipping out, where possible, through the contracting noose, and withdrawing to a final stronghold. Their ambush and destruction of the attacking platoon headqualters was a lucky accident ;- Susan's continued preoccupation with rabbits rather than concealed soldiery was another. Both sides must have learnt the necessity of elaborate preparations for maintaining control in thickly wooded areas, but in detail the operation showed considerable individual prowess in fieldcraft ; the individual duels between Cadet Bartlett and L/Cpl. Plommer and between Cadet Dalziel and Bren-gunner Henniker are cases in point.

No account of the term's activities would be complete without a vote of thanks to Miss Warren for her excellent haversack rations, to the Officers and N.C.O.s who brought the Cert. " A " Candidates up to what we are so blase nowadays as to consider their normal standard of excellence, and to the Junior Leaders' Course which impressed the peripatetic "Crazy Gang" most favourably by their keen conscientiousness.

Lastly, we welcome Mr. Sergison as our R.S.M./P.S.I. this term. Already he has made his mark as a meticulous Quartermaster and painstaking weapon-training instructor, and we hope he may long continue with us.

PROMOTIONS To Lieut. : 2nd Lieut. E. E. Bailey (late R.A.E.C.) (Authy. L.G. Mar. 13, 1951).

To C.Q.M.S. : Sjt. Poole, J. B. To Sit.: Cpl. Rapson-Edgar, J. To Cpl. : L/Cpls. Bartlett, A. K.; Pyne, F. G.; Candy, M. St. J.; Long, P. A.; Dodd, D. C. (All with effect from Jan. 17, 1951.)

CERTIFICATE " A " (Held on March 16, 1951) PART II (Section Leading) : Cdts. Aisher, R. B. ; Aisher, T. J.; Anderson, P. R.; Betts, T. C.; Goddard, E. M.; Smedley, J. G.; Clapp, G. N. (Seven Candidates passed out of eight.)

PART I (Individual) : Cdts. Cardwell, P. J.; Chenery, R. J.; Cottle, I. G.; Funnell, J.; Gaunt, J. R.; Holford, M. A.; Jenner, K. J.; Light, R. A.; Lockhart, B. H.; MeNish, A. M.; Naylor, M. H.; Offen, B. V. G.; Rayner, C. J.; Smeed, H.; Trippett, A. L. (All fifteen Candidates passed.)

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THE SUTTONIAN

ARTILLERY CLASSIFICATION The following passed the Artillery Classification Test (Cadets) on Dec. 15, 1950 :— PARTS I and II: Sjt. Booer, T. G.; Sjt. Fulljames, J. S.; Bdr. Leonard, P. B. PART I only : L/Bdr. Lewis, B. H.; L/Bdr. Padgett, B. S. SIGNALS CLASSIFICATION March 16, 1951 : Sjt. Rapson-Edgar, J.

Shooting Notes every miniature range postal match won, the School is in a position to W ITHregard this term—as far as shooting is concerned—with pride. This record, never previously achieved as far as can be found, was reached by good steady shooting by an excellent VIII, and it must be remembered how bad was the weather. Sometimes the matches were delayed by anything up to a week and only the full use of every moment of spare time—especially on the part of Travers, this season's enthusiastic captain—enabled the team to complete all their matches and achieve such heartening glory. No honours for individual ability can possibly be bestowed as the following results were gained by united team efforts :— Date Feb. 10

Feb. 24 Mar. 3

Mar. 10 Mar. 17

Victoria College. .

Felsted School . . .

Glasgow Academy . .

Monkton Combe School . . .

Christ's Hospital .

Hurstpierpoint College Uppingham School . .

King's School, Canterbury .

St. Peter's School (1st VIII) St. Peter's School (2nd VIII) Epsom College . . .

Bloxham School . . . .

Sherborne School .

Repton School.

Cheltenham Colle ge . .

King's School, Wimbledon .

Points . . . .

• . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Result

For

Against

681 681 681 674 674 674 668 668 629 668 668 651 651 651 651

615 624 509 568 651 590 602 632 547 637 608 618 631 628 587

ozzoo oz go zz= 000000 0000 00000

Feb. 17

Opponents

The "Country Life" Competition has been completed for another year, but at the time of these notes going to press the official results were not yet known. Our total, by our own unofficial estimation, is eighteen less than our score last year, which was 840. With this score our hopes are high as our lead over our nearest rival last year was 58.

55

THE SUTTONIAN THE INTER-HOUSE SHOOTING CUP

to the shortage in the supply of ammunition available in the penultimate OWING week of this term, the Inter-House Shooting Match had to be postponed to the last week, when a suitable time to complete the competition was hard to find amongst all the other end-of-term activities. As a result the match was fired spasmodically over the whole week.

The winners of the cup were St. Margaret's with a considerable points lead of 67.

In general the individual scores were below average, but this was not surprising in a competition which is intensified by nervous excitement. The individual shield was won by Travers with a score of 88—this was his second time of winning it and it provided for him just such a satisfactory ending to the Miniature range shooting season that his hard work and encouragement of others truly deserved.

SCORES WESTMINSTER J. S. Fulljames J. K. Randall ..

N. J. Noyes-Brown ..

J. R. Wood C. P. P. Wiggins D. Wilkin .. ..

J. Melvin P. G. Baxter

..

Group (10) 10 5 10 5 10 10 5 10

Rapid (50) 45 38 29 41 30 • 45 41 41

Snap (30) 30 25 25 20 5 25 25 25

Total 85 68 64 66 45 80 71 76 -

GRAND TOTAL

555

ST. MARGARET'S Group (10)

Rapid (50)

Snap (30)

Total

..

10

48

30

es

..

T. R. Hills C. F. SMith ..

P. B. Leonard ..

J. Rapson-Edgar D. S. Prentice ..

P. F. Waller ..

G. Hoeltschi ..

5 5 10 10 10 5 5

43 42 45 45 42

25 25 30 25

73 72 85 80 77 76 71

A. Travers

41 41

25 30 25

GRAND TOTAL

622 —

56

THE SUTTONIAN

Scout Notes

I

N the early part of the term the persistently bad weather curtailed the Junior

Troop's outdoor activities except for one treasure hunt organised by Mr. Pearson and an afternoon of drill games and relays. Fortunately Mr. Corfield, now officially warranted as A.S.M., Mr. Fennell, Mr. Waters and Mr. Pearson have given most valuable assistance by running badge classes for the 2nd Class Scouts and " nearlies " and in encouraging the remainder to get on with their tests. As a result we hope to have a crop of Weathermen, Jobmen, Cameramen and Observers by the end of term.

At the end of last term the inter-Patrol competition was won by the Tigers (P,L..; A. H. W. Jones). The following were appointed Patrol Leaders this term : R. M. Batten, W. E. Ellis, P. J. T. Herbert and I. D. Johnstone.

The Upper School Scouts have been very lucky this term in obtaining the "garage block" behind Lambe's as a new Scout H.Q. The garage itself is now used as a store for Scout goods as well as for the " Rover " ; the room above has been turned into a comfortable den, the stables next door into a wood store and bike shed and the loft above this into a models room. In addition, the small washing-up room in Lambe's, opposite the Bootroom, has been turned into a photographic darkroom. Naylor and Shaw have taken over the job of Storemen and have done much useful work.

The Saturday evening meetings have been devoted to lectures and practices for the Firefighter and Firemen Badges, conducted by Fire-Officer Filmer of the Maidstone Fire Brigade, who has made the whole subject extremely interesting.

There have also been a series of Ambulance Badge classes on Wednesday afternoons and a number of tests have been passed at other times.

On March 11, J. W. Nicholls and P. F. Waller received their King's Scout Certificates from the Chief Scout, Lord Rowallan, in London.

Troop Leader G. L. Plommer will be representing the Troop at the Jamboree in Austria in August.

A party of ten U.S.S. spent a most enjoyable long week-end at Gilwell Park from January 9 to 11, and were lucky enough to escape the worst of the weather, having two fine days on the Saturday and Sunday. We lived in a wooden hut, but were provided with the luxury of a gas stove on which to cook, and hot showers for washing.

Our main job was to erect over a hundred yards of roll fencing, which was done in a surprisingly fast time and was still standing when we left ! At other times we shifted spiles, whipped and spliced ropes and helped in the making of wood-badges.

On the Sunday afternoon we split forces, one small party exploring the Enfield Reservoir and the others finding it very difficult to map read in Epping Forest. The final objective of the Epping Forest party was the romantic "Dick Turpin's Cave."

We eventually tracked it down and were somewhat abashed to find that the nearest we could get to a cave was a shady looking public-house of that name !

THE SUTTONIAN

57

During our stay we met John Thurman, the Camp Chief, and were taken on a most instructive conducted tour of the house and camping grounds by Bob Herbert, one of his assistants. We hope to make this an annual Christmas holiday event.

It has been suggested that O.S. who were in the Upper School Scouts might form a Scout Club with the object of meeting twice a year, once in London for a meal during the winter and again for a week-end at Ringles during the Summer term.

I should be glad to hear from any O.S. who would be interested. If there are enough to make the scheme worth while further steps to form the club can be taken.

J. W. T. Fives Notes The Fives IV's record of two wins against five losses does not seem impressive, but three of the five losses were against good club sides, and of the four school matches they won two and lost two.

The two wins were against St. Paul's, whom we beat easily in our own courts, and against Eastbourne College in their courts.

In the match against Eastbourne the team played their best fives of the term and finished strongly to win comfortably in the end, although we had led by only ten points before the last game of doubles.

The Colts Pair had two good wins against St. Paul's and Eastbourne, but the IV was overwhelmed at Alleyn's School.

The School IV—Fulljames, Hough, Leonard and Baxter—remained unchanged from the time that Hough became fit enough to play, and the two pairs, of Fulljames and Hough, and Leonard and Baxter, were very evenly balanced. The two general criticisms of their play were, first, a lack of purpose behind many strokes, even from an attacking position, and, secondly, a lack of consistency which led to too many balls being hit down. This was a pity because each

member of the four could hit the ball really well and, when in form, looked a very effective player.

J. S. Fulljames, the captain, was the best striker of the ball in the team and played many good games.

B. D. Hough was not a hard hitter, but developed a good reverse angle stroke with which he won many points. With a stronger left hand and a general increase in severity of stroke he should become a very useful player.

P. B. Leonard made up for some lack of stroke play by a magnificent fighting spirit which was most noticeable against Eastbourne and again in the House Match.

P. G. Baxter, a left-hander, played some good games at the beginning of the term but did not improve as we had hoped. He has a good left-handed service and the real left-hander's shot down the left-hand wall, but misses too many easy ones through trying to make winners off every shot.

For the Colts P. R. Anderson and R. D. Playfair played very well and show much promise. The IV was completed

by N. J. Noyes-Brown and J. R. Wood, who will both do well with perseverance and practice.

58

THE SUTTONIAN

School v. St. Dunstan's Played on Saturday, February 3, in our courts. Result : Match lost by 178 points to 224.

SINGLES: J. S. Fulljames lost to Mockford 15-13, 12-15 ; P. B. Leonard lost to Ballantine 6-15, 15-9; P. G. Baxter lost to Head 13-15, 13-15; I. J. Lockhart lost to Smith 9-15, 6-15.

DOUBLES: Lockhart and Fulljames lost to Smith and /Rockford 15-13, 12-15; Baxter and Leonard lost to Head and Ballantine 12-15, 13-15; Lockhart and Fulljames lost to Head and Ballantine 5-15, 15-12; Baxter and Leonard lost to Smith and Mockford 10-15, 7-15.

School v. St. Paul's Played on Wednesday, February 7, in our courts. Result : Match won by 178 points to 86.

SINGLES: J. S. Fulljames beat Nolan 15-12; P. B. Leonard beat Cooke 15-10; P. G. Baxter beat Norman 15-4; P. R. Anderson beat Fitch 15-3.

DOUBLES: Fulljames and Anderson beat Nolan and Cooke 15-5, 15-2 ; Leonard and Baxter beat Norman and Fitch 15-3, 15-8; Fulljarnes and Anderson lost to Norman and Fitch 13-15, 15-14 ; Leonard and Baxter beat Nolan and Cooke 15-4, 15-6.

COLTS : It. D. Playfair and J. R. Wood won by 60 points to 38.

DOUBLES: FuIljames and Hough lost to Smith and Robinson 6-15, 9-15; Baxter and Leonard lost to Rossiter and Edney 10-15, 5-15 ; Fulljames and Hough lost to Rossiter and Edney 15-11, 5-15; Baxter and Leonard lost to Smith and Robinson 6-15, 9-15.

COLTS IV : P. It. Anderson, R. D. Playfair, N. J. NoyesBrown, and J. R. Wood lost by 79 points to 180.

School v. Eastbourne College

Played on Wednesday, February 28, at Eastbourne. Result : Match won by 163 points to 128.

SINGLES: J. S. Fulljames beat Nicholson 15-11 ; B. D. Hough lost to Partridge 7-15; P. B. Leonard beat Langton 16-14; P. G. Baxter beat Lucas 15-6.

DOUBLES: Fulljames and Hough beat Nicholson and Lucas 15-4, 15-13; Leonard and Baxter lost to Partridge and Langton 7-15, 13-15; Fulljames and Hough beat Partridge and Langton 15-9, 15-13; Leonard and Baxter beat Nicholson and Lucas 15-4, 15-9.

COLTS: P. R. Anderson and It. I). Playfair won by 60 points to 10.

School v. Old Strandians

Played on Saturday, March 3, in our courts. Result : Match lost by 123 points to 172.

School v. Oxford University "Beavers"

Played on Saturday, February 10, in our courts. Result : Match lost by 128 points to 153.

SINGLES: J. S. Fulljames lost to Watkins 7-15; P. B. Leonard lost to Shuker 9-15; P. G. Baxter lost to Lambert 12-15; P. R. Anderson beat Russell 15-9.

DOUBLES: Fulljames and Anderson lost to Shuker and Watkins 11-15, 4-15; Leonard and Baxter beat Lambert and Russell 11-15, 15-8; Fulljames and Anderson beat Lambert and Russell 15-8, 15-8; Leonard and Baxter lost to Shuker and Watkins 6-15, 8-15.

School v. Alleyn's School

Played on Tuesday, February 27, at Alleyn's. Result : Match lost by 80 points to 173.

SINGLES: J. S. Fulljames lost to Smith 6-15; B. D. Hough lost to Robinson 2-15 ; P. B. Leonard lost to Rossiter 0-15; P. G. Baxter lost to Edney 7-15.

School v. The Jesters

Played on Saturday, March 10, in our courts. Result : Match lost by 99 points to 172.

House Match

Played on Sunday, March 18. Result : Westminster beat St. Margaret's by 179 points to 96.

SINGLES: P. B. Leonard beat J. S. Fulljames 16-14; R. D. Playfair lost to B. D. Hough 13-15 ; C. F. Smith lost to P. G. Baxter 8-15; J. M. I. Lewis lost to P. It. Anderson 0-15.

DOUBLES: Leonard and, Lewis lost to Fulljames and Anderson 2-15, 2-15; Playfair and Smith lost to Baxter and Hough 9-15, 5-15 ; Leonard and Lewis lost to Baxter and Hough 8-15, 12-15 ; Playfair and Smith lost to Fulljames and Anderson 9-15, 12-15.

THE SUTTONIAN

59

Cross-Country Retrospect have been no outstanding performances over the course of the season THERE and the team has been of average standard. It is, however, encouraging to report a substantial increase in the number of those of the required ability who have displayed keenness from the start of the season right up to the time of the Steeplechases. It also bodes well for the future to see the promising efforts made by the more junior runners such as Wall, Vant and Stimpson. The team itself has missed the services of E. N. Mackay, Esq., and of J. H. Scott-Wilson, whose help and advice proved so invaluable during previous seasons, and it is to be hoped that there will be someone in authority willing to take an interest in Cross-Country by next year.

Our first race was away at Dover, and our opponents' course more than lived up to its reputation of being a really stiff ordeal. Our runners were unused to the precipitous start and were never able to master the hills and the plough in the fashion of our opponents, being beaten. This was an unfortunate start to the season, since Melvin was barred from running in any more races and the rest of the team were extremely fatigued when the next race came along three clays later.

This was the Blackheath Harriers' match which attracted the usual crowd of spectators, and we were only too sorry that Wooderson was unable to bring down his team of Old Suttonians as well this year. It is no disgrace that we lost this race, since the Harriers' team contained some eminent distance runners, and the performances put up by Fothergill, Noyes-Brown and Travers were very creditable.

As we were unable to enter for the Inter-Schools Race this year, the home fixture against the County Constabulary proved to be our last of the season, and an easy win was gained against their depleted team.

A word must be said about individual performers. In Fothergill we had a capable and experienced runner ; he was able to act as pack-leader on two occasions, and this season has shown, especially in the Steeplechases, that good packing pays dividends. Noyes-Brown and Travers were the discoveries of the season, and while the former never once ran below form, showing himself to be a runner of great determination, the latter improved steadily with every race. Plommer, Randall and Goldfinch, who ran for us last year, all did well on occasions, with Plommer giving the most consistent performance of the three. Finally, Wilcockson, the captain for this season, deserves especial mention as an enthusiastic and encouraging leader. He was very unfortunate at Dover, where he for once failed, but against the Police and in the Steeplechases he regained his old form—in the latter event he would probably have done even better had he had a challenger for the lead. His capability in shouldering the entire burden of this sport was exemplary and much thanks must go to him for his work, which, considering the mediocre material he had to handle, was in many ways very successful.

It is hoped that in future the time and support for cross-country will not again be curtailed as it was. this term. With the number of very promising runners who have appeared this term, and also with the evident increase in general keenness, the prospect for the years ahead is very hopeful—if the sport is given any chance.

60

THE SUTTONIAN MATCHES School v. Dover College

Run at Dover on Wednesday, February 7. Result : Dover, 27 points ; School, 54 points.

This race was run under the most muddy and trying conditions, the disadvantage being doubled by the number of steep hills. Had the team taken advantage of their knowledge of a steep uphill start by "warming up" properly, in all probability the number of blackouts would have been fewer. As it was, Melvin was forced to retire after the first mile, and Wilcockson finished in a most exhausted condition, rendering him unfit for the next match.

After an extremely fast start by the Dover second string, closely followed by their pack, our team had improved its position by " The Plough," roughly halfway round, so as to be actually leading on points. But again the remaining hills proved too much for us, and we had to be content with an equal fourth place for our first two scores ; for this performance credit must be given to Noyes-Brown and Fothergill.

Goldfinch and Plommer strengthened their reputation of last year, and mention must be made of Travers, who, running as a reserve, did well to rank as our fifth man.

The following scored for the School : Noyes-Brown (4 =), Fothergill (4 =), Goldfinch (9), Ploninter (10), Travers (12), Randall (13), Wilcockson (14).

School v. Blackheath Harriers " A " Run at Sutton Valence on Saturday, February 10. Result : Blackheath Harriers, 42 points ; School, 63 points.

As is usual for this race, coining as it does at the beginning of February, the course was rather sticky in places and a slow time was anticipated. However,

this did not deter the stalwart participants, and the attack of Scott-Wilson (B.H. and 0.S.) and Brent (B.H.) on Wooderson's and Scott-Wilson's record only failed by a matter of seconds.

The race was started by the Headmaster and as usual our opponents were content to let the school runners lead the way over the first mile. By the time Chartway Street had been covered the runners had settled down to a steady pace, and at the Alps five " Heathens " had taken the lead, these being followed by a pack of seven School runners, broken up by only one opponent. Since the teams were scoring seven-a-side, it appeared at this stage that if the School pack, en bloc, could overtake one of the Harriers in front of them, a School victory would be possible.

At East Sutton, although the three leading Harriers were still setting a fast pace, the School's scoring seven had succeeded in shaking off the intruder in their midst and were coming up on the couple in front of them. Greasy Grind was at last reached and by this time, superior stamina having told its tale, the five " Heathens " out in front had gained a minute's lead on their closest challengers. The School runners, however, admirably led round by NoyesBrown and Fothergill, held their positions until the finish and so forced back the Harriers' remaining scoring men to thirteenth and fourteenth places.

Mention must be made of Plommer, who confirmed the good impression he had created at Dover, and of Travers who, coming into the team as a reserve again, ran extremely well to come in third for the School. We would like to commiserate with Long, who was called in as ninth man at the last minute.

The following scored for the School : Noyes-Brown (6 =), Fothergill (6 =), Travers (8), Plonuner (0), Candy (10), Goldfinch (11), Cullen (12).

THE SUTTON IAN

61

in commendable fashion on Division B, being additionally handicapped by the absence of Candy and Noyes-Brown.

Great keenness was shown by both Houses in this struggle for the Nation Cup and in a record entry it is satisfactory to note that the only non-runners were those with a medical reason for abstaining.

On Division " A " the race was started with a feeling of tension, since it was realised that St. Margaret's had only a nine points lead. It was perhaps this which spurred a large pack of St. Margaret's runners to take the lead from the start. By the end of Chartway Street, Wilcockson, Travers and Randall were well ahead of the rest of the field, and it was observed at this point that there were but four Westminster runners in the first sixteen. At the Alps Wilcockson was well in the lead, but a spirited tussle was developing for second place between Travers and Randall, with Plommer, Fothergill and Goldfinch not so far behind.

Travers did eventually beat Randall, and with Wilcockson still in front, and Goldfinch and Plommer occupying the next two places, this was the final order.

There was a crop of good runners On Division " B " and it was impossible to forecast a possible winner. That Tapley filled this position is entirely to his credit, and the fact that he successfully held off Anderson and Aisher, both physically his The following scored for the School : Wilcockson (2), superiors, adds to his laurels. Division Randall (3), Fothergill (4), Noyes-Brown (5). " C " provided the spectators with what was probably the best race of all. Right The Steeplechases from the start Vant and Evans were It was mentioned in last year's fighting it out for first place, with runners magazine that it is the House with the from both houses jockeying for positions best all-round performers rather than that behind them. Skinner's Farm showed with the few outstanding individuals who Wall, Blake and Naylor not far behind win the Steeplechase Cup. This year the two leaders, and by Greasy Grind since St. Margaret's had both, the issue Blake and Wall had joined Vant and of the competition was never really in were well ahead of everybody else. It is doubt, although Westminster retaliated much to their credit that these three did

School v. Kent County Constabulary

Run at Sutton Valence on Saturday, March 3. Result : School, 14 points ; K.C.C., 36 points.

With an interval of three weeks since the previous match, the team had had ample time to recuperate from the gruelling "double" against Dover and Blackheath Harriers. Wilcockson made a welcome return to the team and to his old form, while Randall also asserted his true worth. The course for this fixture was somewhat sticky and an east wind did not alleviate the discomfort.

Unfortunately the Police were at the last minute robbed of half their team owing to illness and special duties and so only four counted in the scoring.

The School ran twelve, less Goldfinch and Candy, who were not well. Randall again set the early pace in face of the wind and held the lead until Chartway Street where he was overtaken by Black (K.C.C.) and Wilcockson who ran round together until, in the home stretch, Black won a very good finishing run-in. Their lead was considerable, and next came Randall, doing well to finish in third place, followed closely by Fothergill and Noyes-Brown, whose injure'd foot did not deter him from again running well.

Another Policeman, and then a long line of School runners ensured a victory for the School by twenty-two points.

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62

not stage a tame finish but fought it out to the end ; Wall just managed to get in front of Blake and Vant, and he must be congratulated on running such a welltimed race. Juniors, although run under trying conditions, was a very fast race, and Stimpson, winning by a wide margin, beat the previous best time. He was followed by Croft, and these two should do well in years to come.

THE NATION Cu All those who scored for their Howe have their name in heavy type DIVISION A: 1. Wilcockson (51.) ..

2. Travers (M.) 3. Randall (W.) .. ..

4. Goldfinch (M.) .. ..

5. Plommer (M.) .. ..

6. Cullen, S. W. T. (D.B. ; M.) 7. Budd (M.) .. ..

8. Fothergill (W.) .. ..

9. Goddard (D.B.; W.) ..

10. Hull (M) •• •.. ..

11. Patton (W.) 12. Long (M.) .. ..

13. Pyne (D.B. ; M.) 14. Whittingtonelnce (W.)

15. Ferrnor (M.) 16. Cullen, C. R. G. (D..B. ; 'M.) 17. Smith (M.) •• •• ..

18. Johns (W.)

TIME

.. .. .. ..

.. ..

••

.. ..

..

nuns.

secs.

30 31 31 31 31 32 32 32 32 32 33 33 33 33

27 22 42 45 51 0 13 23 48 59 7 13 35 51

34

18

34 34

18 59

35 13 ..

19. Edgar (M.) 35 29 ..

20. Earp (W.) 36 14 .. ..

21. Moise (M.) ..

36 25 22. Apthorpe (W.) .. .. ..

36 36 Points : St. Margarets, 94. Westminster, 214.

TIME DIVISION B: mins. secs. ..

21 20 1. Tapley (W.) 21 47 2. Anderson (W.)

r 3. Aisher, T.J. (W.) .6. Lewis (M.) 4. Playfair (M.); 5. Gaunt (IL); 7. Wood (W.) ; 8. Everest (W.) ; 9. Harbott (NV.) 11. Wicks (M.); 12. Hills (M.) 10. Pyne (NV.) ; 13. Light (M.) ; 14 Cottle (W.) ; 15. Hoeltschi (M.) 16. McNish (M.).

Points :

St. Margarets, 82. Westminster, 54.

DIVISION C: TIME

1. Wan (M.) 2. Blake (M.) 3. Vant (M.)

mins. secs.

19 31 19 31 19 34

4. Evans (W.); 5. Maberly(D.B. •, W.); 6. Jones (M.); 7. Bateman (31.); 8. Bunker (M.); 9. Naylor (W.); (D.B. ; W.) ; 11.

Rayner (II.) '• 10.

J 13. Hole (M.) ; 14. Duncan 12. Dahlstrom (W.) ; (W.) ; 15. Overy (W.); 16 'Topton (51.) ; 17. Chenery (W.).

Points: St. Margaret's, 50. Westminster, 87.

St. Margaret's (226 points) beat Westminster (355 points).

RESULT:

Athletics Retrospect The School athletics this term must certainly rank amongst the most unfortunate ever ; but although the time and the weather were also against us, the greatest misfortune of the term was without any doubt the absence of E. A. Craven, Esq. In spite of his crippled condition he was nevertheless able to give much essential advice from behindscenes for which he is owed much gratitude. Also we would like to thank J. H. Scott-Wilson, Esq., 0.S., who did an enormous amount of work in helping and advising the small but regular band who toiled on the Upper morning after morning re-marking the tracks which had been washed out by the nightly deluge.

The run of bad luck began when, after weeks of preparation, the weather rendered the ground unfit, and the annual athletics match with King's School, Rochester, had to be cancelled. After this disappointment, the rain only allowed six days for the heats, finals, and interhouse relays, and even then three of the days were run off in rain, and, once, in a snowstorm. The main credit for the final completion of the Sports must go to Rapson-Edgar, this year's captain, above all others of both Staff and School.

Toiling in all weathers, marking out tracks, arranging heats which then had to be rearranged owing to impossible weather conditions, and keeping interest alive by his own keen example, he did a magnificent job of work. The one regret is that his administrative preoccupation denied him personally any time for training, with a result that this essentially fine athlete was, on the occasion, unable to give of his best, to his own detriment -a poor reward for his work, and he deserves great admiration for his unselfishness.

63

THE SUTTONIAN Unfortunately, by the end of term many people were discouraged, and what could have been a very strong team for the Inter-Schools Challenge Cup at the White City Stadium in the holidays has now diminished to four dutiful entries.

Finally, and more cheerfully, Westminster must be congratulated on keeping the Athletics Cup, which, by a fine effort in the relays in which they established three new records, they won by a large margin. Congratulations also to Hart and Melvin, both of Westminster, on breaking respectively the School high jump and discus records.

SPORTS RESULTS OPEN EVENTS: Mile : 1, Wilcockson ; 2, Travers ; 3, Fothergill.

5 nuns. 23 sees.

Weight : 1, Longford ; 2, Melvin ; 3, Travers.

33 ft. 7 ins.

Javelin: 1, Melvin ; 2, Smith ; 3, Hart. Distance not recorded.

Discus: 1, Travers ; 2, Melvin; 3, Longford.

101 ft. 7 in.

DIVISION " A " : 100 yards : 1, Lockhart, I. 1.; 2, Leonard ; 3, Dodd.

11.5 secs.

220 yards : 1, Lewis, B. H.; 2, Lockhart, I. J.; 3, Leonard. 26.1 secs.

120 yards Hurdles : 1, Long ; 2, Patton ; 3, RapsonEdgar. 19.6 secs.

440 yards : 1, Fothergill ; 2, Lewis, B. II.; 3, Long.

Time not recorded.

880 yards : 1, Wileockson ; 2, Fothergill ; 3, Goldfinch.

2 mins. 22 secs.

Long Jump : 1, Long ; 2, Lewis, B. U.; 3, Travers.

16 ft . in.

High Jump : 1, Hart ; 2, Rapson-Edgar ; 3, Patton.

5 ft . 2 in.

DIVISION " B " : 100 yards : 1, Anderson, P. R.; 2, Harbott ; 3, Aisher, T. J. 11.8 secs.

220 yards : 1, Anderson, P. H.; 2, Aisher, T. I.; 3, Harbott. 25.5 secs.

100 yards Hurdles : 1, Anderson, P. R.; 2, Wood ; 3, Dalziel. Time not recorded.

440 yards : 1, Anderson, P. 11.; 2, Playfair ; 3, Harbott. 58.4 secs.

880 yards : 1, Playfair ; 2, Anderson, P. H.; 3, Lewis, J. M. I. 2 mins. 32.2 sees.

Long Jump : 1, Goodwin ; 2, H.arbott ; 3, Lockhart, B. IL 15 ft. 41 in.

High Jump : 1, Lewis, J. M. I.; 2, Anderson, P. H.; 3, Hills. 4 ft. 61 in.

JUNIOR FIELD EVENTS: Weight : Cancelled owing to weather conditions.

Javelin : 1, Blake ; 2 Vandershuys ; 3, McIver.

99 ft. 1 in.

Discus : 1, Maber1y, M. A.; 2, Wall ; 3, Biggs.

100 ft. 10 in. Record.

DIVISION " C " : 100 yards : 1, Rayner, C. 3.; 2, Wall, 3, Bateman.

11.4 secs. Record.

220 yards : 1, Rayner, C. J.; 2, Wall ; 3, Bateman.

Time not recorded.

83 yards Hurdles : Cancelled owing to weather conditions.

440 yards : 1, Wall ; 2, Blake ; 3, Bateman.

64.7 secs.

880 yards : 1, Blake ; 2, Wall ; 3, Hollingsworth.

2 mins. 31.9 secs.

Long Jump : 1, Rayner, C. J.; 2, Bateman ; 3, Fermor, D. B. 16 ft. 11 ins.

High Jump : 1, Smeed, H.; 2, Rayner, C. J. ; 3, Blake. 4 ft. 10 in.

JUNIORS: 100 yards : 1, Pearcy ; 13.2 secs.

220 yards : 1, Croft ; 30.6 secs.

440 yards : 1, Croft ; 70 secs.

Long Jump : 1, Lyle ; 12 ft. 10 in.

High Jump : 1, Craven ; P. N. 4 ft. 41 in.

2, Herbert ;

3, Molineux.

2, Molineux ;

3, Pearcy.

2, Stirapson ;

3, Keeley.

2, Pearcy ;

3, Jefferies.

2, Jefferies ; 3, Goddard,

UNDER 12: 100 yards : 1, Smeed, P.; 2, Hickmott ; 3, Kerasley.

14.2 secs.

220 yards : 1, Hickmott ; 2, Smeed, P.; 3, Vant, J. R. 34 secs.

Long Jump : 1, Smeed, P.; 2, Wallis; 3, Fulmer.

Distance not recorded.

High Jump : 1, Hickmott ; 2, Pierce ; 3, Muer.

3 ft. 81 in.

UNDER 11: 75 yards : 1, Clifton ; 2, Cottle, G. D. 12.6 secs.

150 yards : Cancelled owing to weather conditions.

INTER-HOUSE RELAYS Westminster 47.8 secs.

Westminster 's 19 ft. 41 in. aggregate 4 x 880 yards St. Margaret 's 9 mins. 44 secs.

Putting the Weight Westminst er's 125 ft. 5 ins.

4 x 100 yards High Jump

aggregat

4 x 220 yards Throwing the Javelin 4 x 120 yards • Hurdles Long Jump One Mile Team Race • Discus

Record.

Westminster

1 min. 46 secs.

Westminst er's aggregat

431 ft. 6 ins.

Record.

1 min. 24.6 secs.

Westminster Westminster's aggregate St. Margaret's

64 ft. 8/ in.

Westminster's aggregate

371 ft. 6 ins.

Record.

4 x 440 yards Westminster Twenty Men Race Westminster

5 min. 28.3 secs.

4 min. 4.3 secs.

9 min. 50 sees.

64

THE SUTTONIAN

The Inter-House Relays were run on Monday, March 26, and were won by Westminster by the unexpectedly, but deservedly, large margin of 10 events to 2. In the high jump, C. L. R. Hart established a new School record of 5 ft. 41 ins. ; and J. Melvin a new School discus record of 116 ft. 6 ins.

The Tug-of-War The Tug- of - war, on Thursday, March 15, was won by Westminster in two straight pulls. There was subsequently some controversy as to the required distance to be travelled by the marking tape, but there can be no doubt that Westminster were the heavier team ; and although St. Margaret's were more in unison and more correct regarding stance, the superior weight of the Westminster eight was inexorable.

The Baton Race The race was run on the usual course on Tuesday, March 27, in cold and depressing conditions accompanied by rain and snow squalls. There was never much doubt as to the final outcome of the race, and, after an unexpectedly mediocre start, St. Margaret's finally overtook through Playfair on the 700-yard stretch across lower B.M. From that point their lead quickly increased and was established even more by their very fast finish. The race was won by St. Margaret's by about two-thirds of a mile. The baton was presented by Miss Angela Nicholl.

Library Notes The following books have been presented to the Library this term : " The Wrecker," by R. L. Stevenson and Lloyd Osbourne, presented by F. T. W.

Blatchley-Hennah, Esq. ; "The Model Railway Encyclopaa:lia," by Ernest F. Carter, presented by G. Pember, O.S. The following books have been purchased by the Library Fund : "Tom Brown's Schooldays," by Thomas Hughes ; "The King's English," by H. W. and F. G. Fowler ; "The Prose and Poetry of Dr. Samuel Johnson," selected by Mona Wilson ; Whitaker's Almanack for 1951 ; "This Game of Golf," by Henry Cotton ; "Tom Jones" (volume ii), by Henry Fielding ; " Great Men of Science,"

by Philip Lenard ; "The Creative Craftsman," by John Farleigh ; "Japan, a Physical, Cultural, and Regional Geography," by G. T. Trewartha ; "France, a Companion to French Studies," by R. L. Graeme Ritchie ; Supplement to Harrap's Standard French and English Dictionary ; " Beaumarchais—theatre " ; Oxford Junior Encycloptedia, volume iv : " Communications " ; "The thoughts of Descartes," presented by Paul Valery.

Chapel Notes We have been pleased to welcome as preachers in Chapel this term the Right Revd. the Lord Bishop of Fulham, the Venble. the Archdeacon of Maidstone, the Revd. Canon W. A. R. Ball and the Revd. C. C. H. M. Morgan.

Next term the Rural Dean, the Revd.

Canon C. B. Sampson, has promised to come on June 3, the Revd. Canon J. E. Fison on May 27, Bishop B. C. Corfield on June 24, and the Revd.

I. E. Douglas-Jones on July 15. The Right Revd. the Lord Bishop of Dover will be conducting the confirmation service on June 16, at 3 p.m., and the Lord Bishop of Croydon will be preaching on Speech Day, Sunday, July 8.

THE SUTTONIAN This term we are spending Easter at School and, although this may have its difficulties in some ways, it does provide us with an opportunity to view the whole drama of our Redemption without interruption. The Passion, Crucifixion and Resurrection are shown in their true light and significance as a completed and glorious whole.

65

A Chapel Committee has been formed, its chief function being to determine the allocation of collections. Its members are the Chaplain, the Heads of the two Senior Houses and the Heads of the Senior Dayrooms. Members of the School, therefore, who would wish any particular charity to be supported by a collection are asked to get in touch with any member of this committee.

O.S. NOTES Sir R. S. Champion, K.C.M.G., O.B.E. (1911), until recently Governor of Aden, has retired from the Colonial Service and has entered Lincoln Theological College.

W. R. Filmer (1922) and A. E. A. Day (1937) have been elected to the Council of the Kent County Agricultural Show for 1951.

G. Pember (1926) is Chairman of the North-Lancashire Sub-Centre of the Institution of Electrical Engineers.

D. E. Oates (1928), who is growing tobacco in Southern Rhodesia, would like to hear of any 0.5. who think of settling there. He would be pleased to supply information. Address : "Shelton," Trelawney, S. Rhodesia.

C. B. Groves (1932) was last year seconded from the B.B.C. to the Australian Broadcasting Commission. He conducted in nearly all the principal cities of the Commonwealth.

Lt.-Cdr. H. J. Lee, R.N. (1935), has received a second bar to the D.S.C. for distinguished services in Korean waters.

Lt.-Cdr. W. J. M. Teale, R.N. (1937), has been nominated to the Army Staff Course. His address is Staff College, Blenheim Barracks, Aldershot.

F. P. B. Derrick (1938) is sailing home and arriving on April 19.

Warrant Officer C. R. Wampach, R.E. (1939), who has been stationed in West Africa since the war, is now at Kempston Barracks, Bedford.

Capt. C. J. Meade (1940), Adjutant of the King's VIII Hussars, is in Korea.

L. E. Carden (1941) has rejoined the R.A.F. for a five-year term with the rank of Flying Officer. He is at the R.A.F. 0.C.T.U. at Spitalgate, Grantham.

J. H. Scott-Wilson (1943) ran for Oxford v. Cambridge in the three miles.

0. F. Winser (1943) has passed the Intermediate Examination of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

D. G. Leak (1946) has finished a fouryear apprenticeship with the English Electric Co. at Stafford, and obtained his Electrical Higher National Certificate with credits in all subjects. He is now doing his National Service.

L. E. Cross (1948) is doing his National Service in Egypt and D. J. Rowlandson (1948) in Malta.

J. R. Hind (1949) is with Napiers, at Acton, and at the same time studying at London University for his Inter B.Sc.(Eng.), as is P. N. Lonsdale (1950).

N. R. Pearless (1949) has obtained a commission in the R.A. and is shortly sailing for Tripoli.

66

THE SUTTONIAN

F. W. P. Bentley (1950) has gone to the Officer Cadet School at Eaton Hall.

The following 0.S. have been at Park Hall Camp, Oswestry, during the winter : 2nd Lt. F. D. Playfair (1948) and P. G. F. Bryant, F. C. Carter, J. L. Hough, M. J. Wilkin and F. R. Williamson (1950).

Carter is shortly going to the Mons Officer Cadet School. M. A. Whittaker (1950) is in the R.A.F. at Padgate.

B. S. Padgett (1950) is with Lloyd's Insurance Co.

Marriages BECKWITH - PEARSON. — On October 14, 1950, John C. Beckwith (1940) to Constance Lorraine Pearson, of Neutral Bay, Sydney, N.S.W. MINIFIE-HAWKINS - BARNES.-On February 3, 1951, in Tangier, Morocco, Rev. S. Minifie-Hawkins (Chaplain, 1932-33) to Constance Barnes.

Death Rev. J. D. Kingdon's Portrait Donations amounting to £5 5s. 6d. have been received from D. Clarkson (1950), W. G. Collett (1888), H. D. Haslewood (1887) and L. A. Vidler (1886).

Austrian Tyrol A party from the School is going to Kitzbuhel, in the Austrian Tyrol (August 21—September 6). There are still vacancies in the party and any O.S. who are interested are asked to communicate with N. P. Bentley, at the School.

Births ARCHBUTT.—On July 1, 1950, at Bromley, to Hedwig, wife of J. L. Archbutt (1928), twin brother and sister for Christopher.

FRERE-SMITH.--On February 13, 1951, at Wimbledon, to Patricia, wife of Matthew Frere-Smith (1941), a daughter, Bridget.

ROGERS.—On January 30, 1951, to Margaret, wife of C. E. Rogers (Master, 1932-40) of 1 Hillraorton Road, Rugby, a daughter.

PAINE.—On March 14, 1951, at Morry House, East Sutton, John Paine (1899).

Old Suttonians Cricket, 1951 The following games have been arranged for this season :— Saturday, July 14: v. The School (at Sutton Valence) 11.30 Saturday, July 21: v. The Mote C.C. (at Sutton Valence) 11.30 Sunday, August 12: v. Old Cranbrookians (at Cranbrook) 12.00 Monday, August 13: v. St. Lawrence Club (at SuttonValence) . 11.30 Tuesday, August 14: v. Old Merchant Taylors (at Sutton Valence) 11.30.

Wednesday, August 15: v. Headcorn C.C. (at Sutton Valence) 11.30 Thursday, August 16: v. Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regt. (at Shorncliffe) 11.30 Friday, August 17: v. Ashford C.C. (at Ashford) 11.30 Saturday, August 18: v. The "Three Suttons " (at Sutton Valence) 11.30 Sunday, August 19: v. The Dragons (at Sutton Valence) 11.30

Will any Old Suttonian who wishes to play in all or any of the above games please write to E. A. Craven, at the

THE SUTTONIAN

The balance is to be used to purchase an article of furniture or other article of a permanent nature to be selected by Mr. and Mrs. James.

The organisers wish to express their thanks for the whole-hearted support to their suggestion. They wish to take this opportunity of saying that all donations have been acknowledged by receipts.

If anyone has had no receipt a copy will be sent on application to one of the undersigned :— 0. A. Keeble, Apsley House, Amersham, Bucks.

K. B. Poole, 65 High Street, Amersham, Bucks.

W. A. Travers, " Framlington," Manor Way, Chesham, Bucks.

School, without waiting for an individual invitation.

The H.Q. for the week is the Sanatorium and there are vacancies for " Cooks" and "Domestic Staff" should any noncricketing O.S. wish to help.

Correspondence The Magazine Committee apologises for their inability to insert the two following letters in the Christmas Term's issue of THE SUTTONIAN. Apsley House, High Street, Amersham, Bucks.

The Editor, December 11, 1950.

The Suttonian.

Dear Sir.—A short while ago a letter was addressed to all parents inviting them to subscribe to a parting present to Mr. and Mrs. James.

In the letter a note was made regarding the publication of the result to the effect that this would be published in the School Magazine. I should be very grateful if the enclosed could be published in the next issue.

Yours sincerely, GEORGE KEEBLE.

George Hill House, Robertsbridge, Sussex.

November 30, 1950.

The Editor, The Suttonian.

Sir,—May we crave the hospitality of your columns for a short letter of thanks to Mr. George Keeble, 0.S., and to all other parents who contributed so generously to the appeal which he made at the end of the Speech Day Dance ?

We are both deeply moved by the magnitude of the gift, and by the number of those who contributed to it.

"James Presentation Fund" £ s. d.

Donations received

222

3

Expenditure Printing and Stationery ..

Postage .. ..

Purchase of Refrigerator T. M. James, Esq. ..

Cheque to T. M. James, Esq. Bank charges ..

.. for o

1 4

2 0 0

2

7

£141 Balance

..

8 11 2 li

34 10 100 0 1 1 £81

0 11 .■•■■

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•11

We have been so busy, decorating our new house, in trying to get straight and accustomed to our new surroundings, that we have hardly had time to consider what we shall do with your generosity.

With part we have already purchased a refrigerator, which will be invaluable to us. When we are straight we hope to buy a piece of furniture. Each will

THE SUTTONIAN

68

bring you, and your sons, to our memories.

And we mean to use a part, deo volente, to enjoy what we have not had for a very long time—a holiday away together.

In due course we hope some of you will be able to find time to come here and see and hear how much your generosity and affection have meant to us. You will already know the welcome that awaits you.

JOAN and Tom JAMES.

Bennett House, Sutton Valence, Kent.

January 30, 1951.

The Editor, The Suttonian.

Sir,—As one interested in general history and also in military matters, I was struck recently with the answers to some questions I had occasion to put to the Fifth Form, of which one was an inquiry

as to the nature of Charles 11's Statement of Policy, signed at Breda in 1660, preparatory to accepting General Monk's invitation to resume the Crown. The Army had already earned the description "brutal and licentious" and Charles promised to disband them at the earliest opportunity.

The Form in question, however, would have it that the appropriate clause in the Breda Declaration required the Army to be— (a) Dismembered. (b) Disabled. (c) Dispended. (d) Disbantled.

I feel this last possibility is worthy in the future of inclusion in the Oxford Dictionary. It sounds so much better than— (e) Demobbed.

Yours faithfully, " CLASS Z."