Contents
Page 1
Index
Page 2 - 5
Forward by our President Ian Gunn
Page 6 - 11
March 13th - Concert at Colston Hall
Page 12 - 14
March 17th - Launch of the Foundation at Merchants Hall
Page 15 - 16
March 29th - London OC’s Drinks Reception/Dinner at
the House of Commons
Page 17 - 26
May 3rd - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun day
Page 27 - 28
May 25th - OPEN DAY
Page 29 - 32
4th June - Golf Tournament at Kendleshire
Page 33 - 40
13th June - 15/15 Cricket Competition and
Garden Party
Page 41 - 46
July 3rd - Summer Ball
Page 47 - 50
July 10th - Service at Stapleton Church
Page 51 - 54
July 11th to 16th - CCF Tour of the Battlefields
Page 55 - 59
October 23rd - Dinner
Page 60 - 63
Obituaries
Page 64
News of OCRFC / 2011 Events
1
The Tercentenary President Ian Gunn
With Colston’s School celebrating its tercentenary this year the Old Colstonian Society has had
a very important role to play. This year’s President of the Old Colstonian Society, Ian Gunn, has
been a luminary in the preparations leading up to the Tercentenary and in the management of
tercentenary events this year. He has also played a crucial part in the creation of the Colston’s
Foundation. As Ian prepares for the last of the OC events in the tercentenary year (the OC President’s
formal dinner on the 23rd October) it is fitting to learn a little more of the Old Colstonian Society’s
President.
Old Colstonian Society president Ian Gunn
Colston’s School 1956-1961
Roundway House
Cricket 1st X1
Rugby Fives 1st V1
At Colston’s
Colston’s strong sporting traditions suited me very well and I enjoyed my time at school immensely.
I was in Roundway House which had a proud record of producing many excellent sportsmen who
gained local and international recognition later in life. Roundway seemed to be constant winners
of the Challenge Bowl whilst I was at school although some of my fellow OCs dispute this. Boarding
also suited me although adjusting to dormitory living, cold showers and school food was quite
difficult to begin with. Looking back, the least happy memory was lying in bed in the summer
term wondering whether someone was about to burst through the door to announce a dreaded
fire practice. Despite the Roundway dorm being on top of the main building, it was a matter of
pride that we could evacuate everyone down the canvas shute in a quicker time than the other
Houses who had less distance to travel.
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The Tercentenary President Ian Gunn
Business Career
When I left school I became an articled clerk in a local firm of Chartered Accountants. My brother
Andrew, who was a year ahead of me at school, and class mate Dave Shaw were also articled at
the same firm. In the early years I worked with another OC, David Butler, who sadly died at a young
age. David drove a magnificent Austin Healey 3000 so I have great memories of going on audit
with him.
I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1967 and after a short period working at an engineering
company in South Wales joined the local builders Wm Cowlin. At that time Cowlin’s were the preeminent builders in Bristol and they built many local landmarks such as the Council House and the
Bristol & West Building.
In 1977 I joined Mardon Packaging International and started a long career in Packaging which
has taken me to most countries in Europe and North America. After working at Mardon’s head
office which, at that time, was close to the Mansion House on the Promenade in Bristol, I moved
to become Commercial Director and later Managing Director at their flexible packaging factory in
Midsomer Norton, Nr Bath.
In the mid eighties the Mardon Group became the subject of substantial leveraged buy out by
its Canadian subsidiary and I was asked to move to Toronto to manage its two flexible packaging
businesses in North America. This was to be the start of a continuing association of the Gunn
family with Canada. First my brother Andrew married a Canadian and, more recently, my son
Austen married a Canadian girl and now lives in Powell River which is just north of Vancouver.
This has provided a base for several happy family skiing holidays to Whistler which is just a short
distance away.
I returned to the UK in 1989 and was appointed Chief Operating Officier of Lawson Mardon’s UK and
Irish Flexible Packaging businesses. In 2001, I joined Amcor as Managing Director of their European
Processed Foods businesses and eventually retired from full time operational responsibilities in
2006. For the past few years I have advised Amcor on their European pension arrangements and
now act as Chairman of Trustees of their two UK pension schemes.
Old Colstonians
On leaving school I was encouraged to join the OCs by Pat Sexstone who sadly passed away two
years ago. Pat, who was also in Roundway, and born on the same day as me, was a huge enthusiast
in both the OC’s rugby and cricket clubs throughout the 1960s. We were both on the sports club
committee which, in my early days, met in the Hatchet just off the centre in Bristol. George Moore
was our Chairman and Mike Wood the secretary.
I played cricket for the OCs but having missed the last rugby season at Colston’s because of a virus,
I played hockey for the YMCA and gained my County colours for Gloucestershire playing on the
right wing.
3
The Tercentenary President Ian Gunn
One of the OCs major developments in the early 1960s was the acquisition of the cricket ground
which adjoined the rugby pitches at Mile Straight. The cricket ground, which had previously been
let to Counterslip Engineering, became the home of the OC’s cricket club and the venue of many
happy afternoons trying to come to terms with a very unpredictable wicket. No “spot betting”
here! We cut the grass and prepared the wicket ourselves and on many Friday afternoons when
Dave Shaw and I were supposed to be at student lectures, we were busy preparing the ground for
the following day’s match. One of the high spots of our season was a cricket festival on the main
square at School. We entertained some very good visiting sides but mostly managed to hold our
own against them.
We rebuilt our pavilion twice whilst I was Chairman of the OCs sports club in the 1970s with the
last brick built building surviving until we moved to the OC’s Pavilion at school in 2001.
The camaraderie of Old Colstonians has always been very important to me. There is something very
special about people you have been at school with. As you move through life, start a family and get
embroiled in a career, you inevitable move away from people you have grown up with. However,
when you meet up with them again later on in life, you are instantly back to the relationship you
enjoyed so many years earlier. Perhaps it’s something to do with shared experiences that allow
you to pick up where you left off without any of the inhibitions that sometimes affect relationships
forged later in life. Whatever it is, the OCs have been a source of great pleasure me and it has been
a real honour to have been asked to be the Society’s President in this most auspicious year.
Tercentenary Celebrations
At the outset we decided that our main
objective in the Tercentenary year was to
encourage as many OCs as possible to get
in touch and to re-engage with the School
and with the OCs Society. We have arranged
rugby, cricket and golf tournaments, a choral
concert and a magnificent Summer Ball
where over 600 OCs and their guests enjoyed
a truly memorable evening in a marquee
on the school grounds. Our last event of
the year will be a dinner in the Great Hall at
school and we are confident of achieving
another “sell out”. In all these events we have
received the strong encouragement and
support of the Headmaster, Peter Fraser, and
the supremely efficient organisational skills
of our Tercentenary Coordinator Diane Iles.
When all the dust settles, I’m sure that we will
look back with great satisfaction on a very
successful and highly enjoyable Tercentenary
year.
Ian and his wife Gail at the Tercentenary Ball
4
The Tercentenary President Ian Gunn
However, if it is only great memories that we are left with, I think that we would all feel that we had
missed an opportunity to leave something of lasting benefit behind. One of the great pleasures of
being President of the OCs is being invited to a number of important events in the school calendar
such as Prize Day and Leavers’ Day. The reason that these days are so enjoyable is that you are given
the chance to meet and talk to the present generation of Colstonians. My wife Gail and I continue
to be astounded by the talent, maturity, and vitality of all the girls and boys we have met. Colston’s
is a very different and, dare I say, better and more diverse place than when I was at school. It still
attracts talented children from all backgrounds, many of whom are from modest homes that find
the cost of an independent education beyond their means. Colston’s does not enjoy a wealth
of educational endowments and so the launch of the Colston’s Foundation, to provide bursaries
to those who might otherwise be unable to afford a Colston education, is so appropriate in the
School’s 300th Anniversary and a fitting tribute to the memory of our founder, Edward Colston.
The OCs Society has already made a major contribution to the Foundation and I hope that all OCs
will feel able to do likewise.
Ready for the Launch
Foundation literature was distributed to invited guests at the Formal Launch of the Foundation,
March 17th at Merchants’ Hall, Clifton.
5
March 13th - Concert at the Colston Hall
Colston’s
300
Bristol Concert Orchestra
Colston’s Choral Society
and Choirs
Joke de Vin Colette Lam
Mahler: Syphony No 2 “Resurrection”
Rutter: “Feel the Spirit”
Colston’s School Tercentenary Celebrations 1710 - 2010
Thanks to our sponsors
March 13th - Concert at the Colston Hall
Concert audience feels the Tercentenary spirit
Colston’s School returned to its spiritual home on Saturday evening for a rousing and passionate
concert marking the start of this year’s Tercentenary celebrations.
The Colston Hall was a fitting choice for this historic event because it stands on the site occupied
by the school when it was founded 300 years ago.
Colston’s Director of Music, John Shooter, conducting the orchestra and choir
It was equally fitting that 300 musicians and singers were needed to perform two highly contrasting
works.
Bristol Concert Orchestra and a massed choir assembled by Colston’s Director of Music John
Shooter charmed their audience with ‘Feel the Spirit’, John Rutter’s arrangement of well-known
spirituals.
They went on to transfix them with Mahler’s dramatic 2nd Symphony, the ‘Resurrection’, which
was received rapturously.
The prolonged applause at the end of the evening was fitting reward for the orchestra and chorus
including members of Colston’s School Choirs, Colston’s Choral Society including parents, staff
and friends, Henbury Singers, Thornbury Choral Society and the Old Colstonian Society.Nearly 100
guests attended a pre-concert reception in the new Colston Hall extension. They included former
pupils whose school days spanned more than half a century –George Moore who left in 1947 to
David Stone who left in 2009.
7
March 13th - Concert at the Colston Hall
The Choir
George Moore with the Old Colstonians’ Vice President Ian Gunn
Recent Old Boy David Stone and sixth former Hannah Owen
8
March 13th - Concert at the Colston Hall
9
March 13th - Concert at the Colston Hall
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March 13th - Concert at the Colston Hall
Headmaster Peter Fraser said: “Our ambition is to re-engage with former pupils, and the response
from Old Colstonians to this first special event suggests that very many friendships will be renewed
and strengthened during the Tercentenary year.
Headmaster, Peter Fraser, welcoming everyone to the first of the tercentenary events
“I would like to thank all members of the Bristol Concert Orchestra and the massed choir for
providing such rich entertainment, and the school’s auditors, Deloitte, for sponsoring such a
memorable evening”.
11
March 17th - Foundation Launch at Merchants Hall
Colston’s creates Foundation to support bursaries and widen access
In its 300th anniversary year Colston’s School is creating a Foundation to support bursaries and
widen access.
The plan is to maintain and extend the school’s social diversity, enabling boys and girls from
modest families to access educational opportunities which would not normally be affordable.
Details were announced by the Headmaster Peter Fraser and Chairman of Governors David Marsh
at a special reception hosted by the Society of Merchant Venturers.
The launch of the Foundation was announced at Merchants’ Hall by Chairman of the Governors David Marsh
and Headmaster Peter Fraser. Pictured (left to right) are David Marsh, The Lord Mayor of Bristol, Peter Fraser and
the Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers, Colin Skellett.
As trustees of Edward Colston’s original endowment, the Merchants have managed and supported
the school since it was founded on the site now occupied by the Colston Hall. The school moved
to its present 30-acre site at Stapleton in1858 when the Merchants purchased the Bishop’s Palace
and surrounding land.
Mr Fraser said: “Three hundred years ago Edward Colston had a vision that education was central
to life chances.
“The foundation of Colston’s School in 1710, overseen by the Society of Merchant Venturers,
immediately impacted on the lives of 100 poor boys.
12
March 17th - Foundation Launch at Merchants Hall
“Colston’s in the modern age is an all-age, co-educational family school committed to ‘Education
for Life’. It is committed to developing young people and challenging them to be the best they can
be – and still impacts on lives.
“The Colston’s Foundation is without doubt an initiative clearly aligned with both the intentions
and vision of the Founder.
“The aim is very simple – to create a sustainable income to support bursaries designed to widen
access to a Colston’s education.
“The rationale – to maintain and extend our social diversity, to enable boys and girls from modest
families to access educational opportunities which would not normally be affordable.
“Opportunities that will change lives.”
David Marsh explained that the school had started the re-engagement with former pupils last
summer with a telethon. Sixth Form pupils were trained and employed to call all known Old
Colstonians.
“Some of us watched them at work,” he said. “They were great, really professional, and did the
groundwork for building up an electronic database in a format which is going to last for the next
300 years.”
Mr Marsh praised the Headmaster’s vision and drive in establishing the Foundation, and
emphasised that the school’s financial success had generated the funds to carry out major building
developments over the past three years.
“Colston’s School is in good health financially and academically,” he added.
“It is flourishing because of its record of providing a balanced and rounded education, bringing
out the best in every pupil.
13
March 17th - Foundation Launch at Merchants Hall
With 800 boys and girls from nursery to sixth form, the school has doubled in size over the last 50
years. Colston’s will continue as an independent, all-age, co-educational, broadly-based school,
reflecting the needs of parents and their sons and daughters.”
Mr Fraser added: “The Foundation will seek to invite all former pupils who are able and willing to
enable others to access a Colston’s education which will have been a major influence in their lives.
“Their generosity will, I hope, reflect the tradition set by those who have supported the school
over the last 300 years.”
He recorded his appreciation for the generosity shown in recent times by Paula Spielman, Kenneth
Hilborne, Roger Newport, the Old Colstonian Society and the Society of Merchant Venturers.
“It is time for those who have benefited to be able to give something back,” Mr Fraser added.
“In this I trust that the school’s motto ‘Go and Do Thou Likewise’ represents a call for every former
pupil to consider how they might respond.”
Thanks to Portrayal - our sponsors of Foundation Brochure
14
March 29th - London OC’s Drinks Reception/Dinner at the House of Commons
A group of 38 Old Colstonians, primarily
from London and the surrounding areas,
were extremely lucky to enjoy a Tercentenary
celebration in the Houses of Parliament,
where we were hosted by Robert Syms, the
Conservative MP and an Old Colstonian.
After an enjoyable meal Robert escorted
those remaining into the House for a short
tour. It was a unique opportunity to be
in a place you have seen so often in key
moments of our history and Robert was very
informative about the House of Commons
and Westminster Hall.
Over the course of the evening many OCs
were able to catch up and reminisce about
their school days. It was also nice to see a
number of younger OCs at the dinner. We
thank you very much for coming and hope
you can persuade others to join you at future
London based events.
15
March 29th - London OC’s Drinks Reception/Dinner at the House of Commons
Several O.C’s among them ‘Jack’ William Dempsey (1986-91), Tom Hurley (1995-92) who
attended several events this year, would be pleased to hear from any other London based O.C’s
who would like to be involved with re-invigorating regular meetings amongst London O.C’s.
Contact Fred Forse:
[email protected]
With special thanks to our sponsor of the drinks reception
Hudson Associates, surveyors for Colston’s School
16
3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
On Bank Holiday Monday, as part of the Tercentenary celebrations, many ex pupils returned to
school to play in the rugby 7s tournament. with ages ranging from 18-30(ish) there was a lot of
talent on show.
Unfortunately with so many important league matches and play offs in the near future none of the
numerous ex Colston’s Premiership players were available to play but Lee Mears and Duncan Bell
did manage to find the time to attend and present the trophies to the winning teams.
Old Colstonians Duncan Bell (Bath Rugby and England), Ian Gunn (President of the Old Colstonian Society) and
Lee Mears (Bath Rugby, England and British Lions) with trophies before the presentations.
In all there were 8 teams in the tournament several containing National League players.
In group 1 Joe Burford’s team of ex boarders (Mortlake) got off to an excellent start with a close
fought win over a very strong team selected by Stean Williams (SA’94) based on players who
toured South Africa in 1994 and OCRFC gained a victory over an aging Old School Wanderers team,
selected by Richard Bryan. Mortlake looked stronger with each game they played and eventually
won the league comfortably to progress to the final.The second group was a much closer affair
with all 4 teams reaching the last match having played 2 and won 1. With everything to play for
the school side took on Tom Hall’s team (Incestrians) with the lead changing hands on several
occasions. The school’s superior fitness resulted in a try in the dying minutes to earn victory 2922. In the other match Gregg Setherton’s V11 (‘Too Cool for Skool’), who had previously had a
surprising defeat to ‘Incestrians’, took on Mitch Quoi’s selection (Play hard or go home). Knowing
that they were behind the school team on points difference before the last match Gregg’s team
rallied to produce an excellent win 36-12.
17
3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
With all points counted and recounted a draw was announced with both winning teams having a
difference of +27. On try countback, with a score of 15 -13, the school team progressed to the final.
The Old Girls Team celebrate in style
Whilst the teams were resting the large crowd were treated to some excellent rugby provided by
the current girls school V11 against and ‘Old Girls’ team containing several ex school Internationals.
The Old Girls played a very physical game and ran out winners 48-10. There was also a Veterans
game against a Barbarians team selected from all the other teams.
There was great expectation as the final drew near with the winning team having the bragging
rights over all other year groups who had been through the school. The school team were young
and well organised but the Mortlake team were physical and more ‘street wise’. An excellent final
was played out with both teams producing superb flowing rugby and bone crunching tackles. The
final whistle went with the scores level at 19-19.After consultation with the competition organisers
sudden death extra time was played.
A knock on by Mortlake as they entered the school 22m area cost a try scoring opportunity and from
the resulting scrum the school team produced an excellent set piece looping move for Matthew
Evans to sprint 70 metres to score the winning try. With all points counted and recounted a draw
was announced with both winning teams having a difference of +27. On try countback, with a
score of 15 -13, the school team progressed to the final. With all points counted and recounted a
draw was announced with both winning teams having a difference of +27.
An excellent day was had by all and thanks go to all the organisers, referees, spectators and, most
of all, the players who were all a credit to the school.
18
3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
School Team
Stean Williams’ Team
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3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
Tom Hall’s Incestrians Team
Rich Bryan’s Old School Wanderers Team
20
3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
Tom Baker’s School Team
Joe Burford’s Mortlake Team
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3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
Mitch Quoi’s Go Hard or Go Home Team
Will Read’s OCRFC Team
22
3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
Greg Setherton’s Too Cool for School Team
Veteran’s Team
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3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
Girls School Team
O.C. Ladies Team
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3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
O.C’s Ladies Captain Charlotte Mardle being presented with the cup by Duncan Bell
School Captain Tom Baker being presented with the cup by Lee Mears
25
3rd May 2010 - Rugby 7’s Tournament and Family Fun Day
Ross Martinovic’s Referee’s Team
As well as the rugby tournament families were able to enjoy all the other events of the Family
Fun Day including the UWE Comets cheerleaders’ display team, a hog roast and barbecue, cakes
provided by the Parents’ Society.
Thank you to our sponsors
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Turn
26
25th May 2010 O.C’s OPEN DAY
Each Year since the Pavilion became the base for all Old Colstonians at school, an OPEN DAY has
been part of the social calendar, always in May and generally in the third week it coincides with
the Merchants X1 v School X1.
The format is similar each year with a welcome by the Headmaster and after a coffee the opportunity
to tour both the Lower and Upper schools, in both cases escorted by pupils.
We are grateful to Caroline Aspden, Head of the Lower School for always making us welcome in
the lower school.
27
25th May 2010 O.C’s OPEN DAY
Some of the younger pupils engaging O.C’s with Geoff Stock O.C. A recently retired Lower School
member of Staff in attendance. The tour is followed by drinks and lunch in the Pavilion the
opportunity to catch up with friends and then watch a little cricket.
A group of regulars attend the day and it was pleasing this year to welcome some new faces all of
whom seem to enjoy the enthusiasm shown by our pupil guides, they are without doubt the best
ambassadors that the school could have.
Not always possible to be able to guarantee the weather but we can always guarantee the welcome!
An O.C. just happened to be passing and saw the Open Day every Day sign outside and joined us
for lunch to meet up with some he hadn’t seen since 1959! Richard ‘Dickie’ Wofinden was on his
way back to his home, a Hotel in Thailand.
28
4th June 2010 Golf Tournament at the Kendleshire Club, Bristol
On one of the hottest days so far this year 92 golfers arrived at the Kendleshire Golf Club on Friday
4th June to take part in Colston’s Tercentenary Golf Tournament.
A professional electronic style scoreboard greeted the players on arrival and plenty of good
natured banter was exchanged over coffee and a bacon bap before play got under way at 12 noon
from the 1st and 10th tees.
The Kendleshire course was in excellent condition and the greens were fast and true for those who
were able to read them accurately.
It soon became obvious that it was going to be a long and hot afternoon. Fortunately our
tercentenary coordinator, Diane Iles, had hired a buggy and toured the course to provide players
with welcome liquid refreshment. The Tournament was a team stableford event with the three
best scores counting on each hole.
The final scores were remarkably close with Mike Humphries’ team of “Tenuous OC’s” winning with
107 points closely followed by Dicky Houghton’s team “Houghton Stone” with 106 points. Third
placed team was Keith Watts’ “Watts the score” with 105 points and fourth Alan Morley’s team
“three backs and one Scot” with 102 points.
After a welcome shower and a quick aperitif, players and their guests enjoyed a superb dinner
in the clubhouse. Short after dinner speeches were made by the President of the Old Colstonian
Society, Ian Gunn, and the Headmaster, Peter Fraser.
A prize draw during dinner raised over £300 for the Colston’s Foundation. It was an excellent day
with many old friendships renewed.
We would like to acknowledge the support of the following organisations:
AGDVERTISING
CIFT
ONSULTANCY
WWW.ADGIFTCO.CO.UK
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4th June 2010 Golf Tournament at the Kendleshire Club, Bristol
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4th June 2010 Golf Tournament at the Kendleshire Club, Bristol
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Old Colstonian Golf Society
The OCGS was formed in 1971 and meets three times a year – in March/April playing for the Spring
Shield, in July for the Challenge Cup and in September/October for the Challenge Trophy.
In 1996 to acknowledge 25 years of existence, a Cornish weekend was arranged at the Carlyon Bay
Hotel and Golf Club. This has proved so popular that it has become a regular biennial event with
27 golfers participating. New members are always most welcome and should contact
David Briffett Tel: 01179 864482
email: [email protected]
32
13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
What a summer of cricket so far. Firstly there was the big buck inspired Indian Premier League
followed swiftly by England’s success in the WorldT20. However, not to be outdone and undaunted
by standing against some footie tournament in South Africa the Colston’s Tercentenary’s latest
sporting Magnus opus brought the world its first 15/15 competition.
The school proved to be the perfect venue and under a beautiful June sky warriors from various
generations and in varying degrees of health (and in some instances decrepitude) battled it out
for the OC’s trophy. The first match was between Richard Pandya’s select X1 and Andy Thomas’
more mature vintage.
Andy Thomas driving
33
13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
The sides looked evenly matched (in the photos) but a total that proved to be at least 20 below par
by the over-40s was easily passed by the younger men with almost contemptuous ease - respecting
your elders had obviously become unfashionable at Crib in the years separating the two teams.
No matter. Not being in the final meant one could seek solace in the pavilion and fortuitously the
bar was open. As one pint turned to three, years gone by became vibrant memories and all those
sporting deeds of heroism that we had performed in the name of the school came flooding backeven if not all the names of team mates were instantly remembered.
Vintage bowlers
Andy Bromley
John Uwins
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13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
Headmaster Peter Fraser follows Mathew Thatchers’s cover drive
Meanwhile out on the field of play Ian Webb’s team were showing their younger adversaries - a
combination of recent school leavers, current school members and the master in charge of cricket
that experience is only gained with the advancing of years
Richard Foley is caught behind off his son Ben’s bowling
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13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
Ali Bell dispatches the ball to all parts of the ground
The final proved to be a disappointment to the large crowd as the rain clouds gathered and
eventually brought an end to play. As there was a splendid Trophy to be presented by ‘Sid’ Lawrence
a bowl-out was deemed to be the most appropriate way to decide upon a winner. Eventually, the
rain eased sufficiently to allow this to take place and the umpires and two teams (accompanied by
a few remaining spectators) proceeded to the middle where 2 players from 21 attempts managed
to hit the stumps.
36
13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
Thankfully, they were both from the same team and so Ian Webb’s team emerged the victors. The
Trophy and the compulsory bottle of bubbly were presented in the OC’s pavilion to Ian and his
team amongst a throng of cricketers and supporters. Two signed bats were given to the successful
raffle winners and David Powell from Osborne Clarke presented the Man of the Tournament trophy
to Qamar Waraich.
Qamar Waraich receiving the Man of the Tournament trophy from Osborne Clarke’s David Powell
Ian Webb’s victorious team celebrate with the trophy and bubbly
37
13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
Ian Webb winning Captain being presented the trophy by Syd Lawrence
Yet again Colstonians past and present had risen to the challenge of staging an enjoyable and
worthwhile event. This had been the third sporting event of our Tercentenary Year and following
on from the Rugby and the Golf we had achieved what we had set out to do. A large number of
OC’s had come back to the school for the first time in a long time and had enjoyed being back in
the company of both peers and other generations.
We wish to thank the sponsors for the Cricket Tournament
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13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
Old Boys who were not quite up to taking part in the cricket activities to celebrate the school’s
300th anniversary (report to follow) were still able to enjoy the day watching the cricket and taking
the opportunity to meet each other at the Garden Party.
Pictured below are Rodney Ashman (at Colston’s 1946-54), Richard Hull (1948-56) and Alan Jordan (1947-53)
with their wives Marie, Saxon and Rosemary.
Andrew Davidson (1972-79) met up with Mark Hedgcock (1974-79) and his wife Diane.
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13th June Cricket Tournament and Garden Party
Old Colstonian Society President, Ian Gunn (1956-61), laughing over a beer with John Uwins(1967-74),
Brian Smith (1945-50) and Dave King (1945-53).
40
July 3rd The Tercentenary Summer Ball
Colston’s School celebrates 300 years with a magnificent Ball
On a warm summer’s evening over 500 guests gathered outside a large marquee erected in the
school’s grounds to enjoy pre dinner drinks before the start of the Tercentenary Ball. The school’s
Swing Band conducted by Colston’s Director of Music, Mr John Shooter, provided a pleasant
musical background to the excited conversations of arriving guests. All members of the Colston’s
community including the Head Master, Peter Fraser, staff, parents, governors, members of the
Society of Merchant Venturers and Old Colstonians were represented at the Ball.
Pre-dinner drinks before the start of the Tercentenary Ball
At 7.30pm Lt. Colonel Tim Scarl of Colston’s CCF called guests into dinner. On entering the marquee
diners passed through a separate reception tent before reaching a most impressive dining area
which was beautifully decorated with chandeliers, flowers and table balloons in the School’s
colours.
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July 3rd The Tercentenary Summer Ball
The President of the Old Colstonian Society, Mr Ian Gunn, welcomed guests and thanked several
individuals and businesses for their generous support of the Tercentenary Ball. He said that the
programme of Tercentenary events so far this year ,which culminated in this evening’s Summer
Ball, had proved to be highly successful and had encouraged a large number of Old Colstonians
and friends of Colston’s School to participate in celebrating the School’s Foundation. Ian Gunn
outlined the programme for the evening which included a prize draw, casino and dancing to a live
vocal group.
42
July 3rd The Tercentenary Summer Ball
Guests then enjoyed a four course dinner superbly catered for by Fosters with generous donations
of produce by Richard Sheppard and Chris Jenkins. Other sponsors of the Ball were GVA Grimley,
Monahans, Steve Burnside, Nick Baker and Sharp’s Brewery.
The main bar was run, very professionally, throughout the evening by members of the Old
Colstonian Rugby Football Club. After dinner the President’s wife, Gail Gunn, drew envelopes for
the three lucky winners of the prize draw before dancing got under way.
Guests also made their way to the casino to play with fun money and the serious punters were
also able to buy additional chips. At the end of the evening the player with the largest number of
chips won a Magnum of Champagne presented by Mr Willie Lorang, immediate past President of
the OC Society.
43
July 3rd The Tercentenary Summer Ball
44
July 3rd The Tercentenary Summer Ball
45
July 3rd The Tercentenary Summer Ball
Guests continued dancing throughout the night thanks to the excellent music provided by Vice
Versa. The dance floor was fully occupied right up until the time that the music stopped at 1am.
Eventually guests drifted away during the early hours of the morning, tired but exhilarated by a
memorable Summer Ball.
Guests were also able to have their photographs taken by professional photographers Ashborne
RTphotography.
Those photos and others in the slideshow below are available to purchase directly from Ashborne
RTphotograph. To access the gallery navigate to the following page on the Ashborne website
(http://www.ashborne.co.uk/client/index.php) - accept the terms and conditions and enter the
following password 100703colstons and hit ‘submit’.
Time to go home!
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July 10th The Tercentenary Service
Bishop of Bristol addresses Tercentenary Service at Stapleton Parish Church
The Tercentenary of Colston’s School was marked by a service of thanksgiving at Stapleton Parish
Church on Saturday (July 10th), 100 years to the day after a Bicentenary service at the same church.
The 1910 format was followed closely including a sermon by the Bishop of Bristol. The school
motto ‘Go and Do Thou Likewise’ provided the theme for Bishop Mike Hill’s address.
Bishop of Bristol Mike Hill
The congregation included current and former members of the school. The Headmaster Peter
Fraser was joined by David Crawford, his predecessor,
David Marsh, Chairman of the Governors, Richard Cotton, Chairman of the Colston’s Foundation,
and Andy Thomas, Vice President of the Old Colstonians.
The service was conducted by Colston’s Director of Studies Mike Graham who retired at the end of
term after 32 years’ service. Alongside his other duties, Mike has a long and distinguished record
in organising and maintaining collective worship at school.
The Christian foundation of the school continues to be influential and central to the Colston’s
experience.
47
July 10th The Tercentenary Service
Clive Warren, who has retired as Head of Design Technology, also played an important role in the
Tercentenary Service. He carved a number of wooden crosses from the remains of furniture used
in a school chapel until its demolition in 1999.
The crosses were presented to members of the school CCF unit who paraded at the service ahead
of a battlefield tour to France and Belgium. It is known that 74 Colstonians gave their lives during
the First World War, and the plan is to lay wreaths and crosses on 21 graves which have been
identified. The cadets were to be accompanied by two O.C’s, Nigel Hurley and Fred Forse.
Tea in the school dining room was enjoyed after the service by many of the O.C’s and past staff,
amongst which was David Baker past Latin Master and Rev. Brian Dickson who was a past School
Chaplin.
Holy Trinity Church is only yards from the main entrance to Colston’s, and is used for school services
at the start and end of each term.
Mike Graham Director of Studies arranged the service as one of his last tasks before retiring this
summer from both Colston’s and as a lay preacher of the church.
48
July 10th The Tercentenary Service
49
July 10th The Tercentenary Service
The Service was yet another occasion during the Tercentenary year when O.C’s and staff of wide
age range were able to not only enjoy the solemnity of the Service but to be able to reminisce. We
were especially pleased to welcome Rev. Brian Dickson, who was a past Chaplin of the school and
was able incorporate the visit whilst en route from visiting his daughter in France, I only hope that
I am still globe-trotting in my nineties! F.F.
Rev. Brian Dickson discussing with Lt. Col. Tim Scarll of the CCF the tour of the Battlefields of the Somme and
Ypres Salient due to take place the following day.
50
July 11th - 16th Colston’s School CCF Battlefield Tour Belgium/France
In celebration of the Tercentenary, the
School’s CCF planned a trip to the Battlefields
of Belgium and France. It was not the first
such trip undertaken by the school but
this time there was an objective, namely to
research and identify those O.C’s and Staff
that fell during WW1 and to visit as many as
possible of their graves, leaving a cross or a
wreath. The tour was to be supported by the
Old Colstonian Society and accompanied by
two of their past Presidents, Nigel Hurley and
Fred Forse.
The high point of the Tour was the honour of
being granted the opportunity to participate
in the ‘Last Post’ ceremony at Menin Gate in
Ypres, Belgium, taken at 8p.m. each evening,
a pupil Edward Mathews and the two O.C’s
laid wreaths and a cross in memory of those
O.C’s named on the memorial.
The Menin Gate Last Post Ceremony just after 8pm on Tuesday 13th July 2010
51
July 11th - 16th Colston’s School CCF Battlefield Tour Belgium/France
52
July 11th - 16th Colston’s School CCF Battlefield Tour Belgium/France
53
July 11th - 16th Colston’s School CCF Battlefield Tour Belgium/France
The research carried out by the CCF was aided by a book that was produced by an O.C. Harry
Messenger in 1920, which listed the fallen O.C’s and staff, what regiment they were in, their
rank and decorations and the area in which they fell. From this information the War Graves
Commission website provided known details of where they were buried. For practical purposes
the tour was restricted to the Somme area and Ypres Salient, with a visit to Bruges all undertaken
from our base in Ypres.
The WW1 and WW2 are covered as topics within History at school by the Cadets and with Head of
History in the form of Squadron Leader Nick Drew present, the opportunity was not lost to ensure
that everyone did not miss anything.
The Society helped sponsor the transport costs and Fred Forse and Nigel Hurley O.C’s, both Past
Presidents and officers of the Society, accompanied the Cadets and Staff.
We much appreciated the opportunity and wish to thank both the Staff and the Cadets for making
them so welcome.
Fred Forse & Nigel Hurley
Full report available. Email: [email protected]
54
23rd October Tercentenary Dinner
The largest gathering of O.C’s for many years attended the last of the Society’s
Tercentenary events, the Annual Dinner.
The Headmaster in proposing ‘Foreat Colstona’ stated that every penny donated to the
newly-established Colston’s Foundation will support a bursary at Colston’s School and help
change the lives of boys and girls for generations to come.
This was the central message by Colston’s Headmaster Peter Fraser at the Tercentenary Dinner of
the Old Colstonian Society at the school on Saturday evening.
Through many events sponsored by the Society throughout this Tercentenary year, the Society
has attempted to re-engage O.C’s to share this unique year. O.C’s for the Bi-centenary in 1910
raised funds to build the Old Library. The Headmaster posed the question of how the present
generation would be judged in 100 year’s time.
Our 800 pupils, a third of whom are now girls, come from a wide range of diverse families,” Mr
Fraser said, “And whereas I could talk about the development of the buildings and fabric over the
last five years, these do not make a school. I want to talk instead about people.
“Many of our parents make huge sacrifices so that their sons and daughters come to Colston’s and
receive something of value – something that will change their lives.
“Anyone who seeks to link independent schools with privilege does not see what I see. I see
families for whom a Colston’s education takes their finances to the edge.
“They do it for their children because they feel it will make a difference.”
“My vision and that of this Foundation is to do everything to ensure that money in itself does not
prevent parents from sending their children to Colston’s School,” he continued.
“We cannot support thousands, but we can support some.”
55
23rd October Tercentenary Dinner
In paying tribute to the generosity of two major benefactors Roger Newport and the late
Kenneth Hilborne, whose individual foundations help support the school, Mr Fraser added:
“All of us should play some part - any donation, no matter how small, will be welcome.”
“There can be no greater service than to support boys and girls that we will never know and never
meet.”
“I hope in 100 years’ time when somebody else stands in front of a full hall at this occasion that he
or she will talk of the vision of the 2010 Foundation, and remember us as well as Edward Colston.”
“If you have feelings for this school, now in this Tercentenary is the time to do something for
Colston’s and its young people.”
Mr Fraser praised “the huge energy, enthusiasm and ambition” of David Marsh, who was about to
step down as Chairman of Governors after six years, and also paid tribute to staff, governors and
parents for their loyalty and support for the school.
Ian Gunn, President of the Old Colstonians, said: “I continue to be astounded by the talent and
diversity of the girls and boys I meet at the school.
“Colston’s doesn’t enjoy a large educational endowment, and therefore the Foundation is so
appropriate to the school’s 300th anniversary and a fitting tribute to the memory of our founder.”
The guest speaker, BBC sports presenter John Inverdale, confessed to being a former pupil at
Clifton College, but then restored order with memories of playing rugby for Old Colstonians.
He recalled how Jim Tolman who sadly died this year was one of several O.C’s who welcomed him
to the OCRFC. “Playing for the OCs was hugely important for me,” he added. “It is a fantastic club on
the field and socially. Through playing rugby for the Old Colstonians, a lot of former pupils of this
school did a great deal for me in growing up.”
London girls
56
23rd October Tercentenary Dinner
The Waddington’s table.
John Inverdale with his Old Colstonian Rugby Club mates Mike Humphries, Rob Jennings, Mike Brown and
Richard Pring
57
23rd October Tercentenary Dinner
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23rd October Tercentenary Dinner
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Obituaries
Phil Lomax
D.A. (Tony) Lewis
We are sad to report that Phil Lomax passed
away on Sunday 30th May.
Tony, who died on June 23rd this year, age 77,
was at the school from 1945 to 1952.
Memories of Phil will be evoked by the articles
from The Colstonian below.
He was captain of Roundway, played as a left
arm medium/fast bowler in the 1st XI and on
the wing for the 2nd XV.
After leaving the crib he did his National
Service in the R.A.F. where he trained and was
commissioned as a navigator. Subsequently
he studied at Keele University where he
graduated in English and Philosophy and
also met his future wife, Margaret.
He spent his working career in education
first teaching English to foreign students in a
technical college in Windsor and then moving
into teacher training at Garnet College and
the University of Greenwich. Here he became
involved in developing the use modern
technology to support teachers, in particular,
the use of closed circuit television and other
visual aids. He was also Editor in Chief of a
series of teacher education publications, a
job he continued for five years after his official
retirement.
Mr. P. M. Lomax reflects on
‘25 Years at Colston’s’
There is an old saying that goes - ‘The Happiest
Days of Your Life are your School Days’. Perhaps
this statement is stretching it rather, but on
reflection I can say with honesty that my days
at Colston’s have been interesting, stimulating
- with the added flavour of contentment
‘stirred in’. Whilst there have been better
positions that have surfaced during the
past quarter century Colston’s, somehow,
has produced the correct combination for
job satisfaction and I have never lost that
initial feeling of honour to be allowed to
join the ranks of the school teaching staff - a
bit ‘old hat’ you may say - well back in 1960
conditions were rigid with everyone knowing
their place and as a new boy (as I was at that
time) coming into an established public
school from industry was daunting to say
the least.
He married Margaret Davies in 1959 in her
home town of Wrexham and although his
early career saw them in Windsor they always
planned to set up home in Wales the land
of his forebears. It was whilst they were in
Windsor that Tony learnt Welsh helped by
Margaret, a fluent speaker. When his work
took him to London he did so as weekly
commuter from Monmouth, the first stage
in the family’s move to Wales. After his
retirement he and Margaret made their final
move to Abergavenny in 2003.
Tony is survived by his wife and three children
Richard, Sian and Ben.
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Obituaries
even represented Bristol RFC 1st XV before
committing himself to the Old Colstonians RFC.
We offer our condolences to his wife Jan and
his children Katy and Joe, both former pupils
at Colston’s.
The funeral was held on Wednesday June 2nd
at 11.00am in Stapleton Church.
A note from Peter Fraser the Headmaster
The extended Colston’s family was saddened
to learn of the death of Jim Tolman following
a long and courageous fight against cancer.
Jim was well known to many as a teacher,
father, rugby player and above all, a great
supporter of Colston’s School.
His appearance at the recent Tercentenary
Rugby Tournament reflected his continuing
love for Colston’s sport. It is strange to think
that we will not see him on the touchline next
season.
James Tolman (1953-2010)
We are sorry to report that the President of
the Old Colstonians Rugby Club, Jim Tolman,
passed away on Tuesday 18th May 2010 at
the age of 57.
The School would join me in sending
condolences to Jan, Joe and Katy.
Peter Fraser
Jim has been a stalwart of the Old Colstonian
Society serving on the OC Society Committee
for many years and was President in 2000.
Tribute received by Martin Taylor at school from
Pete Lloyd
Jim made a record 700+ appearances for
the OCRFC and made an unprecedented
contribution to the club as player, captain,
coach, committee member and, latterly,
President.
Martin
Hope all is well with you? Sometimes it takes
the death of someone you really admired to
stir you into action!
I was so sorry to hear of the death of Jim
Tolman, just can’t believe it.
After leaving school in 1971 Jim trained as a
teacher at St Luke’s College, Exeter. He spent
his whole teaching career as a PE teacher
and most recently as assistant head at Oasis
Academy Brightstowe and its predecessor
Portway School in Shirehampton.
As you might be aware, I played rugby and
cricket with Jim on and off from leaving
school in 1981 through to about 1990.
Firstly, Jim was such a positive and enthusiastic
influence on myself and many other guys
who just wanted to play club rugby and have
a good time and we certainly did!
Jim played in the 1st XV at school and as well
as representing St Luke’s College he made
several appearances for Bristol United and
61
Obituaries
I remember, training with him, rugby tours
and cricket matches and although he was ten
years older than us, you never would have
known.
he had written, document witnessed etc he
would never have to work again.
To his pupils at Oasis Academy Brightstowe,
he was variously The Hoff, Mr T, Jimbo or The
Tolmanator, best known for his ability to be
frank about life, rugby and his fondness for
pints and fry-ups. “All right, Jimbo?” pupils
would greet him in the corridor. He was The
Hoff because of his love of swimming; he was
Mr T, Jimbo, The Tolmanator because of his
physical presence.
What a top bloke and I am so sorry I didn’t
keep in contact with him and so many others
during the last nearly 20 years; I am sure he
will be missed by so many people.
Very Kind Regards
Pete Lloyd
But Jim was also the teacher to whom
pupils unfailingly turned whenever they
needed advice, support or inspiration. One
of his pupils wrote about Jim for his GCSE
English course work, which told how Mr.
Tolman had “taught everyone’s mums, dads,
uncles, aunties and even grandmothers and
grandfathers” and even described how “he
used to be handsome back in the old days”.
Jim’s playing career with the OC’s spanned
over 700 games from the early 1970’s until
about three or four years ago when running
out for the Vets, then later refereeing.
It was not only as a player, a Captain; on
the field that he fought for the Club, but he
was instrumental as President of the Club
in persuading it’s members to move to the
school. He played an enormous role with
those negotiations with the Club, the Society
and the school and was an integral part of
the team of O.C’s that enabled the Society,
the OCRFC and the school to now share
their existing status. This he celebrated as
President of the Society in 2001.
One of the many highlights of Jim’s teaching
career was in 2008 when his year 10 netball
team won the league and was rewarded
by Oasis with a trip to Los Angeles to help
teach sport to children from disadvantaged
backgrounds. The experience made a big
impression on him and he worked hard
to share what he had learned with all his
teaching colleagues.
A regular and avid supporter of the O.C’s,
he watched with pride at the teams’ success
and with constructive criticism at their
failures, always supportive and in times of
celebration the first to lead the singing in the
bar and when called for strutting his stuff to
the ‘Stones’; although always the last to get
changed, to make the start of a meeting or to
go home.
Out of school, too, his reputation followed
him. When the local council built a youth
sports centre, it was Jim they turned to for
advice.
In Rugby circles he was known as “Gentleman
Jim” he played hard but always within the
laws. Famous for his time outs - if the OC’s
try line was threathened he would go down
‘injured’ and after treatment carry on with
a wink and a smile to the rest of the team.
Rugby Referees who did not know his name
were clearly new to Bristol: he spent every
game telling them - usually correctly - where
they had gone wrong. Most dreaded being
Always Gentleman Jim he will be missed but
never forgotten. FF.
Jim Tolman always had time for everyone. This
was shown in the many obituaries, articles
and even on Face Book. He once said that if
he had been paid a pound for every reference
62
cornered by him after a match. Not so the
players: with sufficient lubrication, he would
regale them all with bawdy rugby songs. He
played hard but always fair.
He was also a keen cricketer and swimmer and
in Jim’s usual way got involved in Committee
work in these sports. He captained United
Banks Cricket Club just a few seasons ago.
Jim had only one approach in life –
give everything 150%.
He will be greatly missed.
Nigel Hurley
Memorabilia
Society Ties
100% Silk Ties as illustrated
Cuff-links
Lapel Badge
£15.00 + £2.00 p&p
£20.00 + £1.50 p&p
£7.50 + £1.50 p&p
To Order
please contact Fred Forse - email: [email protected]
63
Insert High Res pic of 305G499 of Headmaster. Ex MT.
Change picture of Ian plus add several others of younger age groups. To make a gallery.
Insert the following:-
News of OCRFC / Events for 2011
News of OCRFC
TheXV
1stof
XV
ofRugby
the Rugby
remain
this season
in Gloucester
Premier
League
The 1st
the
club club
remain
this season
in Gloucester
Premier
League
whichwhich
has now
has
now
some
tough
opposition
and
so
far
although
playing
some
good
rugby
at
times
some tough opposition and so far although playing some good rugby at times we have only two
havesix
only
wins against
six have
loss to
show for
it, they
however
played
the
wins we
against
losstwo
to show
for it, they
however
played
thehave
strongest
sides
and potentially
strongest
sides
and potentially
should
now startare
picking
upmost
some
games. at
Spectators
are
should
now start
picking
up some games.
Spectators
always
welcome
home games.
always most welcome at home games.
Gloucester Premier
Team
Short Format
P
W
D
L
F
A
Diff
B Pts
Pts
Adjust
Whitehall
Old Bristolians
Old Richians
Tewkesbury
Widden Old Boys
Bristol Saracens
Frampton Cotterell
Southmead
Old Colstonians
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
7
6
5
5
6
4
3
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
3
3
2
4
5
6
327
253
242
222
192
159
176
93
134
88
86
123
147
93
138
162
218
232
239
167
119
75
99
21
14
-125
-98
7
5
5
7
6
2
4
1
4
39
33
29
27
26
26
20
13
12
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Brockworth
8
1
0
7
91
234
-143
3
7
0
Ross On Wye
8
1
0
7
63
184
-121
2
6
0
Gloucester Old Boys
8
0
0
8
58
305
-247
0
0
0
Last Updated: Nov 13 2010 4:50PM
The club supported the Old Colstonian Society’s Rugby 7’s Tournament on Bank Holiday Monday
May 3rd, which was a huge success and will take place again this year on May 2nd. The Cup
presented to the winning team will be renamed the Jim Tolman Memorial Cup, in memory of Jim
who was President of the Club who sadly passed away earlier this year, it will be a most fitting
tribute.
Future Events for 2011
Rugby 7’s Tournament Colstons School Monday 2nd May 2011
Old Colstonians Open Day Colstons School Tuesday 24th May 2011
OCs Cricket Vs School & Garden Party Colstons School Sunday 26th June 2011
OC Dinner Colstons School Saturday 22nd October
For further information on any event please contact Fred Forse - email: [email protected]
64