2007 November Reunion

The AGM attended to the business of the Association in just over an hour on Saturday morning. Details of the outcomes of discussion may be found in due course on the website. Mike Rogers was confirmed as Treasurer, (having prepared and delivered his first report), while it was reluctantly noted that Paul Farmer was standing down as Vice-Chairman.

In the absence of any Old Boy Rugby this year, attention shifted to a keenly contested game of hockey, which the current girls 1st X1 won 3-2. Many former pupils then moved across Bulford to watch a fine game of rugby in which the school 1st XV defeated West Buckland by 21-3.

Only 23 gathered in the new extension to the dining hall for a low-key but pleasant evening. The School Captains, Jack Mitchell and Alys Metcalf, gave a full account of the school’s excellent year in academic matters, sport and the performing arts.

On Sunday the Remembrance Service in Chapel was quite well attended. The WSA wreath was presented by Bill Lewis, one of George Corner’s boys, and one who served in the RAF from March 1940 until the end of the war. The President, James Bradnock, then joined the parade, led by the Corps of Drums, from the Quad to the Park to lay the wreath at the War Memorial on behalf of the WSA.

JHB

Old Wellingtonian

London Reunion Lunch 2007

 Beginning with a group photo, lunch at The Cricketers’ Club afforded many opportunities for leisurely reminiscence. Former Second Master Victor Finn (1947-82) recalled the escapades of his earliest charges, receiving much warm applause.

Then Headmaster Martin Reader spoke of his ambitious vision for the School.

He welcomed the interest in their shared past, while inviting their continued and strengthening interest in the School.

Appeal Chairman James Bradnock said that the Appeal would be wound up in July and that the target of £400k was within touching distance. He thanked Neil Bruce Copp for leading the Appeal to former pupils, and thanked those present for their generosity to the School, a generosity he hoped would continue in support of the Foundation.

Chris Daykin told stories, jokes and one-liners; then the proceedings were even more entertainingly brought to a close by the inimitable Jeffrey Archer who told “the worst joke in the world” and followed with a quick-fire dispersal of pipes and keys from the former Chapel organ, raising over £1,100 in three minutes flat as a - nearly - final contribution to the Appeal.

A good time was had by all, and we look forward to next year.

WSA weekend 2006

AGM

The following officers were elected: 

President - James Bradnock

Chairman - Mike Sertin

Vice-Chairman - Paul Farmer

Treasurer - James Clist

Committee - Caroline Heaton, Rob Brown and Phil Chambers

Foundation Representative - Mike Sertin

Friends Representatives - Mike Sertin and Paul Farmer

The following nominations for Honorary Life Vice-President were approved:

Neil Bruce Copp

Michael Furmston

Glyn Meredith

John Moore

Alan Rogers

Dennis Trist

The AGM agreed that a Performing Arts Appeal Brick should be purchased in memory of Buck Andrews.

RUGBY

WSA defeated the local Club side 36-5 with tries from Robert Brown 2, Robert Moysey 1, Neil Farmer 1, James Crowther 1 and Frank Stafford 1; Conversions: Robert Moysey 3. 

HOCKEY

Six Old Girls, helped by members of the U15 team, held out valiantly in the first half but eventually lost by four goals in the hockey match.

DINNER

The dinner was enjoyed by 61 guests. James Bradnock took over as President from Michael Furmston who was presented with a salver in thanks for his service.

At the service of Remembrance on Sunday morning, the first lesson was read by the President and the WSA wreath was laid by Stephen Creech (Hardwick 1994-2002).