THE PETERITE Vol.
\
MAY, 1953
No. 333
EDITORIAL When we return after the Easter holidays, the Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be barely a month away, and the tempo of the nation-wide interest will no doubt be quickening to its climax of enthusiasm. It has often been remarked that our attitude to the idea of Sovereignty is a cause of bewilderment to the foreigner, who cannot reconcile it with our passion for democracy and liberty. But perhaps we may reply by inverting Sberne's celebrated remark and contend that "we order - these things better in Britain." "Vive 1' Empereur", "Heil Hitler" and "Viva Mussolini" are buried now in the dust of the past, but the British Monarchy, which by its adaptability and ideal of service to the people has survived the republicanism of the nineteenth century and the catastrophic world wars of the twentieth, remains more firmly based in the loyalty of the British people than ever in its long history. With characteristic goodsense the Briton plods on to his goal over the ancient paths, improving, amending, compromising, but never discarding or destroying anything of whose intrinsic worth he is instinctively assured. "Ingredere ut proficias super antiquas vias" might well be the motto of our race. Recent events have given overwhelming proof that the joys and sorrows of the Royal Family strike deep into the hearts of the people. When time at length took from us the gracious and revered figure of Queen Mary, the grief and sympathy throughout the Commonwealth were as sincere as will be the rejoicing when, on 2nd June, our young Queen dedicates herself to her life of service to her peoples throughout the world. A four-days' holiday, from Sunday, the 31st May, to Wednesday, the 3rd June, enabling the boarders to go home, if they wish, will give us all an opportunity to celebrate the occasion in our own ways. And it seems to us a happy inspiration which has led the Head Master and the Governors to name the new day-boy house the "Queen's House". Are we not the "Royal School of St. Peter's" and do we not owe our resuscitation from the difficulties which followed the Reformation to a new Charter granted by an earlier English Queen 1
CONTENTS PAGE
Editorial ... Commemoration, 1953 Building Programme Day-Boy Houses Scholarship ... Old Peterite News ... Notes on New Zealand ... Valete and Salvete School Officers, Easter Term, 1953 House Notes The Oxford Cup Chapel Notes The Choir ... The Library The Curia The Debating Society The Science Society The British Ship Adoption Society The Young Farmers' Club The Photographic Society The Music Society The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain The French Tour, 1953 C.C.F. Notes Notes from the Services ... Shooting Squash Hockey, 1953 ••• Easter Term Rugger Cross-Country Athletics ... Cricket Fixtures, 1953 Boating Scouting The Junior School ...
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1 3 3 3 3 4 7 9 9 10 17 17 18 19 20 20 22 25 25 26 27 32 36 39 40 43 14 45 47 48 49 51 52 54 59
1 in 1557? Whatever the history books may have to say of the first Mary, there can be no doubt that her action brought salvation to our ancient foundation. Within thirty years recovery was complete, and in 1589, in the reign of the First Elizabeth, an Archbishop of York could write of St. Peter's as "the onelie good schole in this great Cytie, where two hundreth scholars or thereaboutes are vertuously trayned up." The need for a second non-resident house has latterly become increasingly obvious. The number of day-boys has grown considerably and the part they are playing in the life of the School is growing rapidly more significant. Four boarding houses to two day-boy houses is a fairer index of the balance of the School as it is today, and the sub-division will, of course, immensely ease the difficulties of Administration and organization. The essence of the house system is that close personal contact between Housemaster and boys should be possible. Temple has grown too unwieldy for Mr. Rhodes to be entirely satisfied in this respect. The Queen's House will come into being in September next, and we wish Mr. A. Craven, who will be its first Housemaster, every success with the new venture.
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Problems of accommodation, already acute, will, of course, be aggravated by the need for headquarters for the new house, and their solution will not be easy. Past experience, however, has convinced us that the Head Master's ingenuity and foresight will not fail us. On another page will 'be found the programme for the Commemoration festival, with which the coming term will conclude. We shall be particularly happy to welcome as our guest on the occasion Mr. E. Welbourne, M.C., M.A., Master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge. In recent years St. Peter's has had close and cordial relations both with Mr. Welbourne and with Emmanuel.
MISS I. R. STEPHENSON It is with much regret that we have to record the death on 29th April of Miss I. R. Stephenson, who had been our Domestic Bursar since May, ,1950. Miss Stephenson's outstanding ability as an organiser, her devotion to duty and latterly her fortitude in ill-health will be remembered with gratitude by us all. '2
A NOTE ON THE BUILDING PROGRAMME We are glad to be able to report that the first item in our Building Programme, the extension of the Science Block, is now being put in hand. We have obtained a licence to proceed, and it is expected that the new laboratories, etc., will be in use by next Summer. The result will be to double our Science teaching accommodation, and to provide the most modern and up-to-date facilities for this important part of our curriculum.
DAY-BOY HOUSES It has for some time been evident that Temple House should become two Houses, and since it is the policy of the Governors that the day-boys should form one-third (and not more than one-third) of the Senior School, the obvious solution is to have two Day-boy Houses to correspond to the existing four Boarding Houses. It has therefore been decided to form a new Day-boy House in September, and after careful consideration the new House will be called "Queen's", to mark its inauguration in Coronation year. Both Day-boy Houses will be provided with accommodation for day boarders, and the Housemastership of Queen's is to be taken over by Mr. A. Craven, M.A.
SCHOLARSHIP
J. M. Holt has been awarded an Open Scholarship in Science (The Harkness Residential Scholarship) at St. Andrew's University. We congratulate Holt. COMMEMORATION, 1953 The programme will be as follows : Wednesday, 22nd July. Junior School Speech Day and Distribution of Prizes by R. J. Evans, Esq., IM.A. Friday, 24th July. Cricket Match, School v. Old Peterites, begins. 0.P. Dinner and General Meeting of the O.P. Club. 3
Saturday, 25th July. Morning : Speeches and Distribution of Prizes by E. Welbourne, Esq., M.C., M.A., Master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge. Afternoon : Cricket Match continued. Boat Races, School v. Old Peterites. Sunday, 26th July. 8-15 a.m. Holy Communion. 11-0 a.m. Commemoration Service and Sermon by the Bishop of Selby.
OLD PETERITE NEWS COMMEMORATION The Commemoration week-end, which this year falls rather earlier than usual, will be from Friday, 24th July, to Sunday, 26th July. An outline of the programme, which follows the customary lines, is printed on page 3. Fuller details are not available at the time of going to press, but these will be circulated with the formal invitation to O.P.s in the early part of the term. We need hardly stress that the success of the gathering is largely dependent on the presence of a good muster of Old Peterites, and we hope that as many as possible will make the effort to attend. The arrangements for the O.P. v. School Cricket Match are in the hands of P. 'Penniston as far as the 02. side is concerned. Any who would like to play should write to him at Wyngarth, Woodhall Lane, Stanningley, Near Leeds ('Phone, Pudsey 3397). As usual, K. H. Rhodes, at the School, has undertaken to organize the crews for the Boat Races. Anyone interested should communicate with him.
LONDON DINNER
The next London Dinner will be held on Wednesday, the 11th November. Details are not yet available, but the arrangements will be made by Dr. R. H. Metcalfe, St. James' •Hospital, Ouseley Rd., ai
OXFORD CHAIR OF GEOGRAPHY Edmund William Gilbert (School House, 1914-19) has been appointed to the Chair of Geography at Oxford University. Gilbert is now Reader in Human Geography and Lecturer in Geography at Hertford College, and will succeed Professor Kenneth Mason in October next. This is, of course, a distinguished academic appointment and we congratulate Gilbert on the honour. 4
DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS Stewart Macpherson (1936-46), Flight Lieutenant, R.A.F., has been awarded the D.F.C., after carrying out 207 sorties against Malayan terrorists. The citation in the "London Gazette" states "Flight Lieut. Macpherson has total operational hours to date of 371. On one occasion he experienced engine failure 450 miles from base and about 300 miles out to sea. In spite of bad weather, he flew his aircraft for three hours on one engine and landed successfully at base. "By his sheer determination and courage at all times, he became the outstanding personality not only in his squadron, but on his station." Almost immediately after passing out from Cranwell, Macpherson was posted to Malaya to join the famous 84 Squadron. He returned to England in December last and is now an Instructor at the Central Flying School, Gloucester.
ITEMS
We congratulate G. C. Greetham (1944-47) on being chosen to sing bass in the Choir at Westminster Abbey at the Coronation. Greetham won a Choral Scholarship from St. Peter's to King's College, Cambridge in 1947.
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Brian Tomlinson, who left in 1946, qualified as a doctor in 1952 with the degrees of M.B., Ch.B. (Leeds) and L.R.C.P. (London), and is now House Physician at St. James' Hospital, Leeds.
R. Calvert (Temple, 1945-50) has been appointed Senior Under Officer at Cranwell. * * I. D. C. Morrison (The Rise, 1935-39) is now settled in New Zealand, where he has been for the past five years. He is married and working as an accountant for a firm of Woolbrokers in Wellington. His address is Chatsworth Road, Silverstream, Heretaunga, N.Z. His enthusiasm for his adopted country is revealed in an article on New Zealand which he has sent us and which we print following these notes.
OLD PETERITE CLUB CLOTHING
The School Shop can supply the following :— 0.P. Ties, normal pattern-9/-. O.P. Ties, for formal wear--Rayon (non-crease), 8/6; All silk, .12/6. O.P. Blazer Badges-27/6. 5
When ordering, please add 3d. for postage. If the order is received at a busy time of the term there may be a few days delay, but this delay will be reduced as much as possible. Please address orders to Mr. A. T. Howat. BIRTH BROCKBANK.—On 2nd March, 1953, at Hertford County Hospital, to Pamela (nee Parker), wife of James Tyrrell Brockbank—a brother for Richard. [Temple, 1928-39.] MARRIAGES FROST—MITCHELL-HART. On 21st March, 1953, at All Saints' Church, Leighton Buzzard, John Rodger Frost (Rise, 1938-42), only son of Mrs. D. J. Frost, 40 Colebrooke Avenue, London, W.13, to Sheila Doreen Mitchell-Hart, eldest daughter of Mrs. L. Mitchell-Hart, "Wayside", Plantation Road, Leighton Buzzard. The best man was D. J. G. B. Burton (Dizzy) (School House, 1938-43). HARTLEY—JAMES. On 21st March, at St. Oswald's Church, by the Rev. Pickering, Derek, only son of Mr. and Mrs. F. R. Hartley, of York, to Florence, eldest daughter of Mrs. T. G. James, of York. [1941-47.] REYNOLDS—BELL. ► On 7th March, 1953, at All Saints' Church, Fayid, Canal Zone, Egypt, Gerald Howes Fitzherbert Reynolds, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. R. H. F. Reynolds, of Bassett, Southampton, to Valerie Ann Bell, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Bell, formerly of Driffield, Yorkshire. [1943-461 RHODES—PARISH. On 14th February, 1953, at Bridlington, Brian Voase, second son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Ernest Rhodes, to Marjorie, only daughter of the late Mr. Harold W. Lamb and Mrs. H. W. Lamb. [School House, 1926-29.] STIBBARD—WEDDELL. On 6th April, 1953, quietly, in London, Geoffrey Douglas, son of the late Lt.-Col. and Mrs. H. J. Stibbard, to Margaret Elizabeth, daughter of Mrs. Weddell, of Cranham, Cheltenham, and the late Alexander Weddell, LL.B. [The Rise, 1926-32.]
ENGAGEMENTS WICKS—BROWN. The engagement is announced between Neville Edward Wicks, only son of Lt.-Col. C. L. Wicks, 0.B.E., and Mrs. C. Wicks, of 76 Riversley Road, Gloucester, and Margaret Therese Brown, younger daughter of •Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Brown, of 45 Nevill Avenue, Hove. [School House, '1940-431
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WILKINSON—BELL. A marriage has been arranged, and will take place shortly, between Roy Alston, only son of the late Mr. W. H. Wilkinson, and of Mrs. Wilkinson, of North Warren House, Gainsborough, and Mary Caroline, elder daughter of the late Major and Mrs. H. A. Bell, of Lindum Close, Lincoln. [School House, 1917-21]
NOTES ON NEW ZEALAND The other day it occurred to me that I am probably the only O.P. in New Zeauand. If there are others I would like to hear of them. In any event, with the accent today on migration to the Dominions, a few lines from one who has been settled in this Dominion over the past five years may be of interest to those about to leave School. Let me say, first of all, that the enterprise of the pioneers in this country has produced, during the course of a hundred years, a modern, wealthy, versatile and satisfied community. A couple of wars against the Maoris, which earned no fewer than half a dozen V.C.s for the British detachments, is some indication not only of the early problems attending colonisation, but also of the ferocity of the Maori warriors who resented intrusion by the pakeha, or white man. Lest the exponents of yard hockey should seek to assuage their thirst for blood in New Zealand now, I ought to say that the Maoris are no longer cannibalistic and illiterate, but well educated and respected subjects of the Queen. The first settlers cleared great tracts of bush and native trees to establish farms, and then the towns, communications, and ports to carry the fruits of their labours to the distant markets of the world. Today New Zealand exports every year a million and a quarter bales of wool, principally to Britain; a quarter of a million tons of lamb and mutton, principally to Britain; and butter, dried milk and cheese, again nearly all of it to Britain. She boasts excellent libraries, universities, schools, and hospitals. New Zealanders are justifiably proud of their great record which has been achieved within the lifetime of men who are living today and who came out in the sailing ships of the Victorian era. There are two million of them now, including the population of both races, and experts come from far and wide to study their successful methods of primary production, of industrial harmony and social security, and racial unity. In no other country in the world do white and coloured men live together in such a state of mutual trust and respect. Both islands have been endowed by Nature with a wide variety of scenery and phenomena. Not far distant from the rolling plains, lush with green pastures, stand towering, snow-capped mountains with trout 7
filled streams rippling down to the lakes below. Of great interest to the Geologists are the thermal regions with their boiling mud pools, hot springs, and geysers : and woe betide the Vulcanologist who ventures too close to the lips of Ngarahoe (pronounced Nara-hoey) and Ruapehu (Rooa-pay-hoo). These two mountains lie comparatively dormant most of the year, emitting perhaps a trace of steam and smoke, but, without warning, they will roar into activity, belching forth stones and rocks the size of houses. Surely, nowhere can a young man have better opportunities for healthy recreation than in New Zealand. Rugby, cricket, tennis, and golf clubs are open to him. Tramping and mountaineering clubs are strong and active. Hundreds of young men leave the towns every week-end on shooting and fishing trips : they shoot deer, pigs, and duck, or fish for trout for nothing more than the cost of a licence. No commentary on New Zealand would be complete without reference to the Maoris, who arrived in New Zealand by canoe more than three hundred years before Captain Cook. Where they sailed from nobody knows. A map of the Pacific will show that these intrepid mariners must have been the first to traverse thousands of miles of ocean, guided only by the stars and their faith in the Sun God who, their legends told them, would point the way to Ao-tea-roa. At the time of Captain Cook's discovery of New Zealand the Maoris used Stone Age implements, and as they could not write, their legends and family histories were carried down from father to son by word of mouth. To this day, in song and dance, the Maoris tell, just as the first generation told the second, of their great migrations in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. Today full-lbooded Maori teachers, priests of the Christian faith, Members of Parliament, doctors and engineers play their part in the social structure of New Zealand. A new settler will not find a great sheep station and a fortune awaiting him. There are jobs aplenty, but no fortunes. Careers may be made in farming, medicine, commerce and light industry : but success will only attend hard work—as anywhere else in the world. I would advise any boy thinking of trying his hand in New Zealand to get in touch with the Immigation Office at New Zealand House in the Strand. He would be advised, too, to read the pamphlet, "Prospects in New Zealand for the Public Schools Immigrant", which may be found in the School Library or, failing that, obtained from the Secretary of the Headmasters' Conference. I. D. C. MORRISON. 8
VALETE AND SALVETE VALETE (March, 1953) THE MANOR J. W. Horsley. 1949-53 (St. Olave's, 1945). Transitus B. G.C.E., "0" level, 1952. Member of the Choir and Choral Society, 1947-48-49. Member of the Debating Society. Cadet in Army Section (Gun Crew). Cert. "A", Part I, 1951; Part II, 1952. 1st Class Shot. Harrogate and District Public Schools' Cricket XI, 1952. SCHOOL HOUSE P. J. French. 1950-53. Transitus Science. Played for Colts XI, 1951. Cadet in C.C.F., Army Section. Cert. "A", Part I. 1st Class Shot. Efficiency Badge. Member of the Young Farmers' Club. TEMPLE R. B. Holdsworth. 1951-53. Transitus B. G.C.E., "0" level, 1952. Ordinary Seaman in Naval Section of C.C.F. Cert. "A", Part I, 1952. In Class Shot.
SALVETE (January, 1953)
D. H. Allan (Shell A). D. J. Bell (Shell B).
THE GROVE SCHOOL HOUSE
SCHOOL OFFICERS Easter Term, 1953 HEAD OF SCHOOL: H. P. G. SHAW. SCHOOL MONITORS : Head of The Grove: M. J. WOOD. Head of The Manor: J. B. WEIGHTMAN. Head of The Rise: H. P. G. SHAW. Head of School House: C. K. SMITH. Head of Temple: J. E. FAWCETT. Chapel Monitor: G. B. PULLAN. D. A. HAXBY. J. M. HOLT. HOUSE MONITORS : The Grove: C. M. C. BURDASS, M. N. COATES, T. A. FOY, T. WILKINSON. The Manor: A. T. BOOTH, R. J. DELITTLE, J. G. HUMBLE, M. J. QUARMBY, C. W. THOMPSON. The Rise: M. A. BUTTERWORTH, D. H. GUDGEON, J. C. OLDROYD, E. A. M. REID-SMITH, D. I. W. SMITH, R. D. WHEATLEY. School House: D. C. HOLMES, J. N. T. HOWAT, G. B. HUDSON, R. NELSON, J. 0. WALTON, D. N. SIMMONS.
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R. T. CLARK, R. DUNWELL, J. C. M. HERRING, P. G. TAYLO R D. K. TIMMS, C. M. WARD.
Temple:
GAMES CAPTAINS :
Captain of Rugger: P. G. TAYLOR. Captain of Hockey: J. E. FAWCETT. Captain of Boats: C. W. THOMPSON. Captain of Shooting: J. B. WEIGHTMAN. Captain of Squash: M. J. WOOD. Captain of Fencing: J. G. HUMBLE. EDITORS F"THEPT d:
R. D. WHEATLEY, P. G. TAYLOR, C. K. SMITH, M. J. QUARMBY 'r T. A. FOY.
HOUSE NOTES THE GROVE For an Easter Term the weather has been unusually good; we have, however, had our share of "flu" during the occasional bad spells, especially amongst the junior members of the House. As usual, the term has been a busy one with much to do in the little time available, and, as always, The Grove played a prominent part in all School activities. The Grove "scientists" had no sonner returned when they were called upon to give an evening's entertainment at the Science Society. The lectures, given by R. Shepherd, P. L. Bardgett and R. F. Scales, proved a very enjoyable evening for all members. The work of the House has continued to flourish, and many points were obtained towards the Work Cup by members of the fourth forms and below, though the results of the trial exams. were somewhat disappointing.
Several members of the House performed in the Concert held at the end of term, and we would especially like to congratulate R. Shepherd, W. B. Hawkins, and E. H. Turner on their individual performances. 4 The House chess team were unfortunate to be drawn against Temple in the first round of the Inter-House competition, and they were narrowly beaten 3-2. The boaters followed what seems now a tradition of watching the honours go to another House, but this lack of success was in no manner due to lack of effort. Squash, however, has never been stronger in the House, the Squash Cup easily being retained for .10
another year. N. J. Magson and W. G. A. Maxwell won the Junior and Intermediate competitions respectively, and the runners-up in all three competitions were members of The Grove. M. J. Wood captained a successful School team and W. G. A. Maxwell and G. B. Pullan also played. The only Grove representative in the shooting team was T. A. Foy, and we would like to congratulate him on the award of his colours. One of the main features of the School 1st XI this year was its effective forward line, and as four of the five were from The Grove we feel that the House has no little share in the success of the team. G. B. Pullan and M. J. Wood were awarded caps, and W. G. A. Maxwell and C. 1M. C. Burdass, colours. Under the inspiring captaincy of C. M. C. Burdass nearly all the House spent an energetic last three weeks of term scraping together as many points as possible towards the Athletics Shield. On Sports Day, however, we found that both Rise and Temple were too strong for us, and in spite of creditable performances by W. G. A. Maxwell and ID. P. Huger, we could only finish third. C. M. C. Burdass is to be congratulated on his appointment as a House Monitor during the term.
THE MANOR The Easter Term is always one of vigorous athletic activities, but it seemed impossible at the beginning of this term that The Manor could play any effective part in them. At the first assembly, many members of the House looked much the worse for wear. Was it the effect of a happy Christmas or the thought of the new term? Subsequent events, however, proved that first impressions cannot be trusted. As expected, we again completed the boating double by winning the senior and junior divisions. We were extremely lucky in having the same oarsmen in the senior boat as last year; only the cox needed training. Apparently his education had been slightly neglected, as he tended to lapse into his own idea of how many ten strokes were. Both crews were quite apprehensive before the races in view of the disgrace if they were beaten, the senior crew keeping their eyes on the Temple boat especially. In the final of the senior division we did meet Temple, but, alter a good race, we won by about two lengths. The 2nd crew beat The Rise comfortably in the junior division final. The cross-country came and went, resulting in eight hobbling members about the House, and the loss of the Cross-country Plate. We have no regrets in losing it, as we did come second, and Temple's team were really good. We must congratulate Humble and Elston
on coming 2nd and 3rd respectively in the race—not a bad performance at all. Elston was awarded his House colours for this and last year's performances. In the Inter-House squash competition we somehow managed to reach the final, but, of course, we had to step down to The Grove then. A. T. Booth got his hockey cap and R. J. De Little his hockey colours for their efforts in the School hockey team. We are pleased, as it shows that the House does have members who do not take boating. In the athletics the House as a whole was unsuccessful, coming last in the Sports, but Bulmer deserves special mention for his personal successes in the intermediate events. The Reading Room is now much more efficiently illuminated by strip lighting, which Ford has so kindly given to the House. We appreciate this gift to the full; it really does make all the difference. There is a vogue among the present generation in the House to work off surplus energy endeavouring to square dance, or something, in the Big Hall. We do not know quite what happens in there, but occasional visits to the School buildings at nights raise qualms as to their safety, since the whole place seems to bounce a good two inches in time to the strains of "The Dashing White Serjeant" or the "Virginia Reel". No doubt next term will reveal a seasonal decline in this "sport", but its popularity is such as to tide it over to next year.
THE RISE The success of the Easter Term depends largely upon the weather, which normally curtails outdoor activities. However, this year the weather has been kind to us, and we have been able to play our part in all games. The Rise had three members in the 1st Hockey XIReid-Smith, Moore, J. R., and Gudgeon—who are to be congratulated on their colours. Reid-Smith also won his cap for goal-keeping, which caused rumours of a transfer to some First Division club. Lewis, Butterworth, Shaw, Wheatley, Applewhite, and Grainger played for the 2nd XI. Our first two ventures in search of points for the Oxford Cup met with little success. The squash team lost to School House in the 1st round, despite the victories of Reid-Smith and Moore, J. R. Much enthusiasm and energy was put into the preparations for the crosscountry, and the team, although fourth in the competition, ran well. Wheatley, a fine captain, was most unlucky to fall on the way home, when placed fifth. The boating crews, which were rather on the light side, lost to the winners in both divisions : The Manor. The senior crew fought hard, but lost in the semi-final. The junior crew reached the final, after 12
a victory over The Grove, and missed their annual catch of crabs.
The chess team won their first match since 1947, beating Manor 3-1 in the semi-final. Temple, however, won the final 3-2, after we had given them several shocks; none of their members of the School chess team won. As usual the last three weeks of term were occupied with standards. The Rise, by a tremendous effort, reached an average of 13.14 per boy, beating the previous School record of 12.96 established in 1950. On Sports Day we only secured first place in three events and the senior relay, but so many other places were gained that Temple, the second House, were unable to cut very far into our lead gained on standards. To celebrate the victory we awarded Butterworth his House colours. Finally, Reid-Smith proved a magnificent captain : he endowed the House with the great spirit which is a necessary armament for all teams in their search for victory.
SCHOOL HOUSE The Easter Term is well known for its many and diverse activities, and this term has been no exception for the House. In ten brief weeks we have seen the playing fields thronged in turn with rugger, hockey, and athletic enthusiasts, while the river has been the scene of arduous training for the boat races. Indeed, too, a brief period of bad weather added a variety of novel activities in the form of "one minute, please" sessions and the like. This term we are to congratulate J. M. Holt on his School Monitorship and Nelson and Walton on their House Monitorships. Besides this and the addition of one new boy, Bell, D. J., whom we welcome to the House, there have been no material changes since last term. As usual the House has been well represented in the hockey teams : Crosskill and Hudson attaining to the 1st XI, while the 2nd XI drew its captain, Walton, and three members, Macpherson, Holmes and Nelson, from our ranks. In the junior rugby XV, too, we played our part, Ruddock and Sharp gaining places, while Mackintosh played at least once. Willstrop was not only chosen for the School squash team, as was Nelson, but also succeeded in winning the senior squash competition, thereby adding a silver cup to his collection. A pleasing augury for the future was the achievement of our cross-country team, young as it is in years and experience, which gained 3rd place in the final assessment. Subsequently Gardner was awarded his senior and Hawat, C. G., his junior House colours. Despite all the efforts of our rowing coach and captain Gardner, the 1st IV lost to Temple in the 1st round, although the 2nd IV reached the semi-final after beating Temple by two feet. After gaining 2nd place in the athletic standards our comparative weakness 13
in the mile races, coupled with the misfortune of several injuries, prevented us from doing ourselves full justice, though we did have a sprinkling of winners in Smith, Nesham and Leonard. However, although the sporting achievements of the term are undoubtedly more than adequate, there is much left to be desired in the work of the House, as proved by the results of the trial exams. Let us hope that they will act as an incentive for the House to work harder and do itself justice in the forthcoming examinations. Another season of House "proms", organised by J. N. T. Howat, has drawn to a close, remarkable for a piano recital by Mr. R. Eliot, whom we heartily thank for a splendid evening's entertainment. This term it is our task to say farewell to French and wish him every success in his future career. Finally, Mr. Payne terminates a brief stay in our midst, to be remembered for his, interest and enthusiasm for the House. A feature of our term's activities was a House play, inspired by Middlebrook, P. W., of which an account is given below. HOUSE PLAY "SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT" BY LESTER PHILLPOT
Characters (in order of appearance):
The Wolf (a burglar) ... ... R. LE PLA The Hon. Guy Sydney P. W. MIDDLEBROOK Preston ... M. R. LEONARD The Hon. Lettice Sydney P. B. CLAYTON Lord Redchester T. E. THOMAS Lady Redchester G. R. H. CLEMONS The Hon. and Rt. Rev. Charles Sydney, Bishop of Redchester D. J. NESHAM The Play produced by P. W. MIDDLEBROOK. Set and Stage Effects : M. R. LEONARD and J. HOWAT. Prompter : P. J. TAYLOR
To command the attention of its audience is perhaps the first difficulty that confronts a cast unskilled in the finer points of amateur dramatics, and this, it must be agreed, Middlebrook managed to achieve with remarkable ingenuity. From his first appearance in a darkened room accompanied by the appropriate music, Le Pla, presumably inexperienced in such a role, succeeded in drawing his audience into the aristocratic affability of the Sydney household. Shouldering the leading part, he proved himself competent to prevent the play from revolving around the more experienced and confident Thomas. The monocled lord gave his usual jovial performance, though by now, of course, we know exactly what to expect. Middlebrook as Guy, the ex-public schoolboy son, added an atmosphere of general "what-haveyou" to the farcical drama. However, apart from the ex-actors the
laurels must go to Nesham and Clemons, as the bishop and mother respectively. Perhaps Clemons more than anyone else succeeded in drawing contrast from his part, effectively presenting the ire and pathos of Lady Redchester. Nesham was every inch a bishop from his little black cap to his forcible monotones, a notable augury for his closer associates. It was the task of P. B. Clayton to stray from the abnormal to the normal, so to speak, in his portrayal of the highspirited 21 year old girl, and the fact that he surmounted this difficulty must be regarded as a splendid achievement for a boy whose voice is on the point of breaking. Leonard as Preston portrayed a butler off as well as on duty with remarkable effect. For the choice of the play Middlebrook must be highly commended, realising as he did that a younger cast finds it easier to act "character parts" provided by the play in abundance. Finally, if the production was a success, as undoubtedly it was, the success was due to the assistance and advice of Mr. Payne, who has had considerable experience of dramatics. May we, then, with increased confidence and hopes look forward to the next production of our dramatic group. C.K.S.
TEMPLE "To be or not to be ?"—that was the question which Templars were asking each other for the greater part of this term. Templars may be the salt of the earth, but, unfortunately, you can have too much of a good thing and eighty boys in accommodation meant to hold between forty and fifty is precisely that. The situation was fast becoming one of expansion or explosion, and this expansion was the cause of much debate in the House. So it was duly decided that, at the end of the Summer Term, Temple was to become two houses. News of this impending cleavage was received with mixed feelings by the House. The Captain of Rugger was reported to have sobbed hysterically at the thought of members of his carefully-nurtured House team probably opposing each other next Christmas Term, but the general opinion was that this method was the only way. Various suggestions—some of them sensible—were put forward as to what the forthcoming infant should be christened, but the powers-that-be wisely ignored them, and decided that the "Second Temple" would rejoice in the name of "Queen's". But all this is for the future. This term Templars and budding "Queeners" alike pulled their weight, as usual, for the House. In the realm of intellect Temple swept the board in the General Knowledge Prize competition, the first three places in the entire School being 15
occupied by Timms, Clark, and Taylor respectively. Herring and his "mates" annihilated all opposition to win the Chess Trophy. An interesting and, we hope, successful experiment was attempted this term when a Temple discussion group was formed, under the generalship of King. The Easter Term is usually a blank one as far as sport is concerned, since the weather apparently considers that there should be a close season for athletic activity between the months of January and April. This year, however, hardly any fixtures or events had to be cancelled, and there can, of course, be no doubt that members of the House were overjoyed as standards approached, heralded by gloriously sunny weather—or were they? The first main event of the term, however, was the cross-country, in which Temple scored a great victory. The whole team ran well, and special congratulations must go to Atkinson, R. B., who won the Goodburn Cup. House colours were awarded to Butland, Welch, Beckitt, Heap, and Crossley. The boating crew also covered themselves with glory in the Inter-House races, beating School House and Grove, and only losing narrowly to Manor in the final. Heap, Herring, Atkinson, R. B., and Ward, C. M., were awarded their House colours and Holdsworth his Junior House colours as a result. The junior crew, however, did not fare so well, losing to School House in the first round. In spite of plucky performances on Sports Day, in which the Temple contingent more than held its own, we lost the Athletics Shield to Rise, on account of a thirty points deficit on standards. The squash was also lost, after a grim struggle. The only senior inter-school sport of the Easter Term, hockey, did not prove to be Temple's strong point. Admittedly we had the Captain of Hockey, but, unfortunately, the Captain of Hockey had a knee with deviationist tendencies. Nevertheless, we feel certain that the team benefited immeasurably from Fawcett's touchline advice —and abuse. Bough and Crowe, however, kept the Temple flag flying in the 2nd XI and were awarded their colours. Several Temple juniors played for the "A" XV, and Hewson and Beckitt obtained places in the shooting VIII. Ward, C. M., we are told, was in the School fencing team, but since all fixtures were cancelled, we have to take his word for it ! Finally, we bid farewell to Holdsworth, whom we wish the best of luck in his future career. 16
THE OXFORD CUP, 1952-53 (Holders : THE RISE) The following table gives the points gained up to date :— Senior Rugger Junior Rugger Senior Cricket Junior Cricket ... Rowing (1st Division) Rowing (2nd Division) Athletics, 1st Athletics, 2nd Cross-country, 1st Cross-country, 2nd Swimming, 1st Swimming, 2nd Squash ... Tennis ... Shooting (Team) ... Fencing
Points Awarded Grove Manor •••
•• • •• • •• • •. • •• • •• • •• • •.• •• •
20 10 20 10 20 10 20 10 10
20
20 10 . — —
180
School House Temple — 10 --
20
---
10 10
5
5
10 5 10 10 5
Rise
— 10
—
—
—
30
35
20
10
20
CHAPEL NOTES The following boys were Confirmed by the Archbishop of York in the School Chapel on Thursday, 19th March, at 11-30 a.m. :— J. C. Armstrong, D. G. Barton, I. L. Barton, R. Baxter, N. J. Bell,
P. E. Bulmer, R. D. Burdass, B. W. H. Carter, M. T. Carter, T. Chilman, J. C. Cooke, P. A. Crossley, J. M. W. Dobson, W. D. Dodsworth, C. S. Elston, R. A. Field, J. M. Forster, C. B. M. Gregory, M. G. Hancock, P. M. Hewson, W. House, J. L. Hyde, D. B. Irvin, T. M. Jenkinson, C. M. Jones, R. V. King, J. J. F. Knapton, P. J. Ladd, J. R. Loadman, S. Mackintosh, H. C. Marshall, J. R. Maxwell, D. C. Magson, J. F. Miers, G. F. B. Mitchell, D. J. Oldman, J. 0. R. Penman, T. Piercy, C. J. Quickfall, W. N. Richards, D. Robinson, M. Ruddock, G. C. Sanderson, L, C. Sedman, R. J. Sharp, A. H. Sneesby, D. T. Sparham, M. P. Stanton, B. R. Stockton, M. G. Sykes, N. D. Taylor, E. W. Trevelyan, H. W. H. Unwin, J. G. Walker, F. F. Watson, R. M. Wheeler, I. Wilson and F. G. Woodgrove.
M. Veal was unfortunately away, but was Confirmed in the School Chapel by Bishop Hubbard, who very kindly came specially, on Friday, 27th March, at 6-30 p.m.
On the first Sunday of term the School again took their part in the Epiphany Procession in York Minster. The service followed its now traditional lines, and was as beautiful and inspiring an act of Worship as ever. 17
Our visiting preachers were Bishop Hubbard and the Revd. J. MdMullen, the Sacrist of York Minster, to whom we are most grateful. Our debt to Bishop Hubbard is particularly great since he came every Friday in Lent to give an address after Compline; and helped us all tremendously. We were very sorry to miss our usual visit from the Dean of York, and particularly sorry because his absence was due to a serious illness. We are thankful to know that the Dean is now well on the road to recovery; and we shall hope to welcome him back to the School Chapel soon.
,
We have now used our new Hymn Book—AIM. revised, 1950— for a full term; and have already explored some of its new hymns; or, more accurately, hymns new to us. Some of these, and especially "Cwm Rhondda", have already won their way, and more will soon do so.
We had special collections in Chapel on Sunday, 15th February, for the Lord Mayor's Flood Relief Fund, and sent a total of £,41 2s. 4d. —a result for which we may well feel thankful. The full statement of the Chapel account will, of course, be given at the end of the Summer Term.
C.P.
THE CHOIR At the beginning of term the Choir immediately started practising for the service of the Epiphany Processions with Carols in York Minster. Fortunately this year the Minster Choir came to the final rehearsal on Saturday morning in the Minster, which resulted in better antiphonal singing in the second responsory "Surge, illuminare" than last year. At the end of the service we received an invitation to join with the Minster Choir in the singing of Weelkes's splendid "Gloria in excelsis Deo" on future occasions. ,
The Choir Supper was held on Monday, 26th January, in the Dining 'Hall. This year we were glad to welcome Mrs. Dronfield and Mrs. Waine, who came to join in the celebrations with us and adjourned with us after supper to the Old Dining Room for an informal concert. This proved to be one of the best we have ever had. We would like to thank the Head Master for arranging and the domestic staff for providing a very enjoyable supper. "Hymns Ancient and Modern, revised 1950" introduced last term on the First Sunday in Advent is proving very successful and has provided us with some fine new hymns and tunes. Besides singing settings of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis with the School (Stanford 18
in B flat, Walmisley in D mina,- (twice) and to plainsong with faux Bourdon by Orlando Gibbons) the Choir sang the following anthems :
"Achieved is the glorious work"—Haydn. "The King of Love my shepherd is"—Bairstow. "0 Lord increase my faith"—Weelkes.* "Insanae et vanae curae"—Haydn. "0 Lord, the maker of all thing"—Mundy. "Hosanna to the Son of David"—Weelkes.* ' Added to the repertory this term. J.N.T.H.
THE LIBRARY Librarian: L. C. K. SMITH,
BURGESS,
ESQ.
Library Monitors: H. P. G. SHAW, D. A. HAXBY, J. C. M. HERRING, R. T. D. C. HOLMES, P. G. TAYLOR.
CLARK,
Compared with the large influx of books throughout last term, relatively few additions have been made, mainly in the Modern Languages Section. The list is as follows :Metaphysical poetry from Donne to Butler—Grierson, The Development of Shakespeare's Imagery—W. H. Clemens. The Recovery of Belief—C. E. M. Joad. A History of Western Philosophy—Bertrand Russell. La Symphonic Pastorale—Andre Gide. Portrait de M. Denis—Marc Bernard. Sept Petites Croix dans un Carnet—G. Simenon. Le Notaire Du Havre—G. Duhamel. Le Temorgnage de L'Enfant de Chceur—G. Simenon. Der Grosse Duden (German Lexicon). Stifters' Works, Vol. I and II. Arthur Schnitzler—A. Erzahlungen. Theatre, Drama and Audience in Goethe's Germany—Bruford. A History of the World's Art—Hermann Leicht. A History of Music of England—E, Walker. The Progress of Music—Dyson. Mozart's Operas—E. J. Dent. A Pattern of Islands—Arthur Grimble. The Thin Red Lines—Charles Graves. Practical Organic Chemistry—Mann & Saunders. The Short Stories of Somerset Maugham (3 vols.). Hitler—A Study in Tyranny—Bullock. A New Survey of Science—Shepherd.
May we again emphasise the necessity for the School to assist the Library Monitors by replacing reference books and by tidiness at all times? 19
THE CURIA A preliminary meeting was held in order that new officers could be elected, and a programme for the term arranged. Oldroyd was elected as Chairman, and the post of Secretary was filled by Thompson. The first meeting of the term was very successful. Mr. Lavender and Mr. Manby very kindly came and spoke to us on "Undergraduate life at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge". This meeting proved to be the most enjoyed one of the term, and we would thank both Mr. Lavender and Mr. Manby for giving their time so willingly. The second meeting took the form of the reading of a play, "One Wild Oat" by Vernon Sylvaine. Unfortunately, little time was left for criticism, but the whole play was amusing and entertaining throughout, and interest in it never flagged. The final meeting of the term was a kind of quiz, the rules of which nobody understood except Oldroyd, their originator. This, too, proved a success, and it must be recorded that the meeting could hardly have been such a success if Oldroyd had not given so much time and thought to devising the questions at such short notice. C. W.T.
THE DEBATING SOCIETY Chairman: L. C. LE TocQ, ESQ. Secretary: R. D. WHEATLEY. Committee:
J. B. WEIGHTMAN, T. A. FOY, J. C. OLDROYD, R. N. JOHNSON, A. G. D. STAINES, C. H. LEWIS, G. D. GARDNER, J. 0. WALTON, J. H. BAINES.
This term has been one of great success for the Society. We held four meetings during the term and all were very successful. However, the meetings were sometimes marred, and.time for debate cut down, by lengthy discussion about rules for the Society. Several proposals were made to institute new rules and regulations and many felt that there should be a written constitution for the Society. At the third meeting of the term, the whole issue was discussed, and by a considerable majority the Society voted in favour of having no fixed constitution and of leaving the making of any rules and regulations in the hands of the Committee. The standard of debating has considerably improved and even though speeches were sometimes irrelevant they were not lacking in eloquence. The first meeting took the form of a discussion on the fate of a young fox, which had recently been found in a suburban garden. There were four proposals. After the order of speaking had been 20
decided by lot, J. B. Weightman proposed to take the fox into the country and let it go. His proposal, he said, was a fair, humanitarian gesture, and the fox must be given a chance to see and enjoy life. C. H. Lewis proposed to keep the fox as a pet, for he said it would become affectionate and loyal, and it would probably turn out to be a good "watch fox". C. M. Dunn, in a maiden speech, wanted to give the fox to a zoo, for it would be out of the way and would be a source of amusement to others. H. C. Bulmer, in a confident maiden speech, proposed to shoot the fox, for he said it was a potential danger to the farmers and to the public. To shoot the fox would probably mean more food for the public and less work for the farmer. After views had been given from the floor of the House, Bulmer's proposal was endorsed, for he obtained 54 votes, Weightman 211 votes, Dunn 16 votes and Lewis 10 votes. The discussion provided a very enjoyable evening. The second meeting of the term began with a proposal to have a question time during debates. This was held over to the next meeting. J. H. Baines, seconded by W. R. Ibberson, proposed the motion "That nationalisation has done nothing to improve the relations between employers and employed in the industries concerned". The proposition thought that in these industries the employers were far removed from the workers and that there was no human contact between the two. Men were not machines but nationalisation tended to treat them as if they were. The opposition, Mr. K. H. Rhodes and J. Crossley, emphasised that we had to create a sensible and co-operative spirit in industry. Under nationalisation there were better relations and better methods of conciliation. The opposition appealed for an end to political prejudice towards industry. Feeling in the House seemed to be equally divided but the motion was defeated by 24 votes to 20 votes with 6 abstentions. The third meeting of the term saw a general discussion on the constitution of the Society and the decision to relinquish the idea of a fixed constitution. This was followed by a debate on the motion "That taste and humour are declining in Britain". The proposition, Mr. M. G. Manby and R. M. Kirkus, said that although their motion was not popular it was a fact that art, music, and literature were declining in taste. Many old buildings in York were examples of good architecture, but modern buildings were ugly and shapeless. The humour of the present day was childish and foolish, they maintained. The opposition, J. C. Oldroyd and T. E. Thomas, said that humour was an expression of national character. The Englishman's character had progressed by leaps and bounds. They were convinced that architecture had improved and that design was far better than before. Taste in sport had improved, for cock-fighting and bear-baiting had been replaced by rugby and cricket. Today, the opposition concluded, it was essential to have faith in ourselves. There were many speeches 21
from the floor of the House, mostly in support of the proposal, but on being put to the vote the motion was defeated by 35 votes to 26 votes with 7 abstentions. The fourth and last meeting of the term was chosen for a political debate. The motion was "That the present Conservative Government has disappointed its supporters". The proposition, R. D. Wheatley and J. B. Claydon, maintained that it was the duty of a loyal supporter of the Conservative party to criticise the Government constructively. The Conservative Government had made a good start, but they were now in the doldrums. There were many gaps in Government policy, such as the handling of purchase tax and rent control. There was no far-sighted policy for agriculture. Trade with the Commonwealth was being hindered by commitments to foreign countries. The Government should give its full support to European defence. If these gaps were filled, the proposition concluded, the Government would be stronger and far more effective. The opposition, W. R. Ibberson and J. H. Baines, claimed that the downward trend in the economy of the country had been halted. Time was needed to judge the Government fairly. Britain now had a more effective voice in the framing of Western policy and relations with the United States had improved. The strong policy of the Government had saved the Suez Canal from seizure by the Egyptians and the Sudan question had been settled. The Government had made us realise that we could not live in a fool's paradise and its achievements were great and many. The debate was thrown open to the House. True allegiance to the Conservative party was at stake and many accusations and taunts were made. Opinion was fairly evenly divided. On being put to the vote, however, the motion was carried by 47 votes to 36 votes with 2 abstentions. Thus ended a successful term for the Debating Society. Enthusiasm for the Society seems now to be strongest in the middle of the School, and support from the seniors is not all it might be. However, there have been many new and promising young speakers and there is a waiting list for membership, so we can report that the Debating Society is in a very healthy condition. Before closing our last meeting it was deemed right that we should thank Mr. Le Tocq for all the time and energy he has put into the Chairmanship of the Society. R.D.W
THE SCIENCE SOCIETY President: E. K. RosmsoN, EsQ. Secretary: J. FORD. Treasurer: W. R. IBBERSON. House Representatives: Grove: D. A. STABLER, N. W. M. CARR. Manor: C. M. DUNN, R. A. JACKSON. School House: J. M. HOLT, J. P. WHEATLEY. Rise: J. B. HUZZARD, W. R. IBBERSON. Temple: A. G. D. STAINES, P. J. NETHERWOOD.
22
Four meetings were held this term, the first being sponsored by the Grove. It consisted of three lectures. The first entitled "Instruments of the 'Orchestra" was originally to have been given by Hawkins, but owing to his unfortunate indisposition the lecture was given by P. L. Bardgett at very short notice. He described all the instruments in the main sections of a modern orchestra, and added interest to his talk by demonstrating some of them. R. F. Scales then gave a talk on "The Development of Railways", tracing their growth from the wagon and tramways used in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. It was pointed out that George Stephenson was not, as many people think, the first man to build a steam-driven locomotive, although he was extremely successful. At this time passenger trains travelled at about '20 m.p.h. and it cost five shillings for a journey of 30 miles. Scales finished his lecture by describing the growth of the London and North 'Eastern Railway from 4922 to 1948. The last lecture of the evening, "'Methods of Recording", was given by R. Shepherd. He described how the first recordings were made on a wax cylinder. With the introduction of the valve, and hence amplification, much better methods of recording were devised, as he showed by playing a modern 78 revs. per minute recording in contrast with an old one. Shepherd ended by demonstrating the tape recorder which he had built. At the end of this meeting the film "A Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra" was shown in conjunction with the first lecture. Mr. Lanning was in the Chair. At the second meeting of the term the evening's programme was provided by School House. "(Diagnosis by X-rays", the first of three lectures, was given by IM. J. McCallum. Rontogen first discovered X-rays whilst passing a high voltage current through a vacuum, but it was not until later that their penetrating properties were discovered. The talk was illustrated by actual X-ray photographs of such things as the pelvic girdle, lung, and skull. McCallum ended his lecture by mentioning that the absorption of rays is inversely proportional to the atomic weight of the substance, and demonstrated an X-ray tube in action, showing how a penny could be seen inside a purse. The second lecture of the evening, "from Gear-box to Differential", was given 'by J. 'P. 'Wheatley. The clutch assembly was first of all explained, followed by the gear-box. 'He then went on to describe how the crown and pinion converts a longitudinal drive into a transverse one. Wheatley ended his lecture by describing the differential in a car, this being a contrivance which enables the back wheels to revolve at different rates, thus preventing skidding when a corner is taken. 23
The last lecture was one on "Atomic Energy" given by Holt. As an introduction to nuclear chemistry he described the emission of rays from such radioactive substances as radium, and explained the difference between a chemical and radioactive change. Continuing, he explained why no atomic engine had so far been produced, and mentioned that if mass and energy were interchangeable as Einstein suggested, then 11 gram of matter could give 125 million kilowatt hours. Holt ended his lecture by describing how an atomic pile worked, and also the elementary principles involved in an atomic bomb. 'Mr. 'Jeffs was in the Chair. At the third meeting of the term an illustrated talk was given by Mr. •Mason, of the York Camera Club, who showed us some Kodachrome transparencies that he had himself taken. They were not, he said, all perfect, but he had purposely included some which would illustrate certain common faults; for even the best photographers were constantly making mistakes. Whilst the slides were being shown he pointed out any interesting features in the picture, and also faults which he thought were evident. 'Amongst the many tips he gave were "Do not buy an expensive camera or start taking colour photographs at first, but let it come later after some experience of handling a camera has been gained". Mr. 'Crews was in the Chair. Manor provided speakers for the last meeting of term. The first lecture was given by R. M. 'Botterill on the "Origin, Training, and Care of a Horse". He described how the horse had descended from an animal not much larger than a terrier, and how, as it became faster it raised itself up on to its toes, until now it runs on one toe nail. The horse at one time had a small trunk, which, although it has now disappeared, may still be seen on the Tapir, which is a close relative. Botterill ended his lecture by describing how a horse is broken in, and finally he mentioned a few of its more common ailments. The second lecture of the evening was given by the Secretary, J. Ford, on the "Development of a Modern Two-stroke Engine". He began by saying what the two-stroke offered, especially in relation to its efficiency and ease of maintenance compared with a four-stroke. He then went on to explain how a two-stroke worked and dismantled an engine so that the working parts could be easily seen. To end the lecture Ford described the various lubrication systems employed in two-strokes, and finally mentioned the new split-single engine, as used in Italy. The last lecture of the evening was given by Elston on "Gyroscopes and their Uses". 'He outlined the path of researches in gyroscopic action since the earliest spinning tops as far as firing a rifle bullet and throwing a disc. He then illustrated some of its uses such as the '24
gyroscopic compass, artificial horizon, and its use as a stabilizer in ships. Elston concluded by giving us a glimpse into the future by saying that soon we might have trains running on a cable steadied by large gyroscopes in the carriages. 'Mr. Le Tocq was in the Chair. J.F.
THE BRITISH SHIP ADOPTION SOCIETY The "Mountpark" arrived at Avonmouth from Montreal on 19th December, ;1952, and our correspondent, Mr. Ellis, was given leave. He has unfortunately not been able to return to sea, owing to illness. As the Society's policy is to attach schools to persons, rather than ships, this means that the School has not been in direct contact with the "Mountpark" this term. Since December the ship has made the voyage Newport, Mon., to Galveston, and back to liverpool, whence she sailed on ;1st March for Vitoria, Brazil. After calling at St. Vincent, Cape Verde Islands, on 10th March, she reached Vitoria on 19th March, and that is the latest news we have at the time of writing.
YOUNG FARMERS' CLUB Leader: MR. K. G. COULTHARD. Committee:
C. M. C. BuRDAss (Chairman), R. D. WHEATLEY (Vice-Chairman), D. C. HOLMES (Secretary), H. C. BULMER (Treasurer), C. W. THOMPSON (Librarian), A. G. QUARMBY, D. G. PROUDLEY.
The first meeting of the term was held on 22nd January when Mr. J. W. 'Proctor gave a talk on the life of a Veterinary Surgeon, which he said was greatly modified by the location of his work. Most of his work was now concerned rather with prevention than with cure of disease, which entailed vaccinating cattle against tuberculosis and diseases leading to abortion. A vet. had also to deal with contagious diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease. Mr. Proctor thoroughly endorsed the slaughter policy of the Government to combat the spread of this disease. On 5th February Mr. J. G. Brunton spoke about Dairy Farming as a career. He said that unless a boy was extremely interested he should not take up farming. He thought that there was more to interest the would-be farmer in dairying than in any other branch of farming. He stressed the feeling of great satisfaction to be gained from developing a first-class dairy herd over a number of years, but 25
pointed out the necessity for milk recording. This was the only method whereby poor yielding cows could be detected and removed from the herd, so improving the average yield of the herd. Mr. Brunton expressed a preference for line-breeding over inter-breeding, so keeping all the cows in the herd similar, without weakening the strain. On 49th February Mr. R. Stephenson, assisted by a farmer grader and a butcher grader from York Cattle Market, spoke about cattle grading for beef. He said that the basis of the present scheme was live weight, coupled with an estimate of the killing-out percentage, that is the proportion of the animal estimated to be of use to the butcher. The price paid to the farmer is based on the grade into which the animal is placed. Grading is complicated by the fact that different scales of grading are laid down for different categories of cattle such as cow-heifers, beasts over 131 cwts., young bulls, cows and imported cattle. On 5th March Mr. R. R. Pepperall, Secretary of the Milk Marketing Board, described the functions of the board which was founded in 1933. Its main work was to guarantee markets and prices for milk. In the main the board dealt with the buying, collection, and sale of all milk. The board provides facilities for hygienic milk production but it cannot enforce farmers to keep Tuberculin-free cattle, though if any farmer fails to maintain a high standard of hygiene his contract can be terminated, leaving him without any sale for his milk. The board owns a few creameries and grass driers and is responsible for the Artificial Insemination Centres, which have greatly improved the quality of British dairy herds. On 26th March IMr. K. N. Findlay, M.B.E., Provincial Livestock Husbandry Officer, introduced two films on cattle breeding. He said that his work was to see that the statutory laws were administered in Yorkshire and Lancashire and this entailed the inspection of bulls, boars, and stallions before they were licensed for service. The first film "Breeding for Milk", stressed the need for Milk Recording, the culling of the herd and the use of a good bull. The second film, "Breeding by Artificial Insemination", showed how an A.I. centre works. It emphasised the importance of such centres to the small farmer because it is now possible for him to have the use of a first-class bull without incurring the great expense involved in buying, housing, and feeding it. D.C.H.
•
THE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY As no internal lectures were planned for this term, the activities of the Sociey have centred round the York Camera Club. Many members attended the lectures, whose subjects ranged from Child Photography to Dufay Colour and were much enjoyed by all. 26
.1
The dark room was used by many members throughout the term, and it is hoped that members will give strong support to the Annual Exhibition at the end of the year. P.G.B.
THE MUSIC SOCIETY Secretary: J. N. T. Librarians: P. L.
HOWAT.
BARDGETT AND
E.
TURNER.
Musical events during the term have been the normal series of Friday lunch-time recitals, two Saturday evening meetings, a lecture recital given by 'Margaret Haig and Gertrude Trede, and the School Concert.
FRIDAY RECITALS All the recitals this term were of recorded music but we had the opportunity of hearing Long Playing records for the first time and we were very grateful to E. M. 'Gray for loaning us his L.P. record of the 3rd Rachmaninov Concerto and the apparatus with which to reproduce it. Date 23rd January 30th January 6th February 13th February 20th February 27th February 6th March 13th March
Subject Music for School Concert "Pizzicato" Bach Mozart's operas Sibelius Beethoven Rachmaninov Miscellaneous
Presented by J. N. T. Howat C. G. Howat M. J. Quarmby P. G. Taylor M. A. Butterworth R M. Kirkus E. M. Gray J. C. M. Herring
TWO-PIANO RECITAL Saturday, 7th February After the rather austere fare of last term's concert by the music staff, it was pleasant to find a sunny programme, carefully planned to display all facets of the two-piano idiom. The recital began and ended with a signature tune, Rae Robertson's spirited arrangement of the Strauss "Moto perpetuo". This put everybody in excellent spirits and made a fair-sized audience ready for the main part of the programme. In the Duettino
'27
Concertante by Feruccio'Busoni, a delightful pastiche in the style of Mozart. we felt we were listening to music more Mozartian than the true Mozart of the 'March in D (K 249) (arranged for two pianos by James Brown) which followed. These two pieces led up to the first major work of the programme, Brahms' Variations on a Theme of Haydn. This brilliant and happy work exists in two versions, one for full orchestra and the one we heard in this recital for two pianos. We found the interpretation of Mr. Waine and Mr. Wicks completely satisfying. After this big work something less exacting for audience and pianists was required, and we were delighted when Mrs. Procter played on the cello Saint Saens' ever-popular "Le Cygne"—on this occasion with the rarely heard original accompaniment on two pianos —followed by one of W. H. Squire's brilliant pieces for the instrument he understood so well. After this charming interlude we returned to the two pianos with the delightfully sentimental and nostalgic sounds of "May Mell—The Pleasant Plain" by 'Arnold Bax. For a composer who is so strikingly a master of the orchestra, Bax has, in this original piece, achieved some suprisingly pianistic effects. After two more light and charming pieces on the cello, we came to the last group, starting with Debussy's compelling Nocturne "Fetes" with its exotic and barbaric rhythms and melodies, and ending with the three dances, contrasting with each other, the acid Polka of Lennox Berkeley, the ever-green "Blue Danube" (brilliantly arranged by Wilhelm Grosz) and—the signature tune. We thank Mrs. Procter for so kindly coming once again to play for us, and Mr. Waine and 'Mr. Wicks for a most enjoyable evening's music.
LECTURE RECITAL ON FRENCH MUSIC Saturday, 28th February 'Oldroyd's lecture recital was given to a rather small audience in the Lecture Theatre. His programme consisted of records of French music and some apt and original remarks on the subject of his own personal tastes—as well as some caustic remarks on the subject of the tastes of others. He began his programme with a carefully worded discourse on the uselessness of convention, and then proceeded to put this into practice by playing Cha'brier's lively piece of nonsense, "Espafia", and leaving the Overture until later ! "Esparta" is a happy piece of music, not without crudities and inconsistencies. Might not the overture to "Orpheus in the Underworld" have been just as lively a beginning as well as satisfying convention? '28
From Chabrier's light-heartedness, Oldroyd brought us to Debussy's warmness and sincerity, to "Poissons d'or" in fact, though how one can picture embroidered fish on a screen from music so full of grace, poise and movement is beyond the writer's conception. From "Poissons d'or" he moved to "La Cathedrale engloutie", the weird tale of the engulfed cathedral, and then on to "Claire de Lune", a truly excellent choice and, as 'Oldroyd confessed, his favourite piece of piano music. I often wonder why "Claire de Lune", so soft, so gentle, never seems to receive the interpretation it requires. Perhaps it is my own imagination, but I always feel that it is played far too loud. Oldroyd next chose Berlioz, and of Berlioz the striking "Carnaval Romain", which succeeded in shaking everyone out of the peaceful reverie induced by "Claire de Lune". This stirring music tells the story of feasting and Bacchanalian orgies in ancient Rome and it aptly describes what it sets out to say ! Another alarming piece of Berlioz followed this, the Trojan March, actually the prelude to the third act of his opera, "Les Troyens". Oldroyd continued with a violent and not always reasonable attack on the Concerto, a form now well established for some 200 years. The main grounds for his adverse criticism were length (due to recapitulation) and "fa-la-de-da" sections (by which, presumably, he meant Cadenzas and the virtuoso element generally). It may be argued, in language which may appeal to Oldroyd's mathematical mind, how infinitely dull is a straight line parallel to the axis, compared with a simple cubic equation having one maximum and one minimum value. Applying this to a Concerto, we find that by cutting out the bridge • passages and the florid work generally we should have a long string of melodies, the musical equivalent of a straight line. Could anything be more boring? After provoking us with this argument, Oldroyd cooled us down with Saint Saens' magnificent 'Cello Concerto in A minor. Although it is written in one movement, it contains everything one looks for in a concerto. It is written in the typical brilliant and popular style which we associate with Saint Saens' genius. Oldroyd followed this with the "Grand March of the Lion" from Saint Saens' huge zoological garden party, "The Carnival of the Animals". This magnificent king of beasts is mocked rather rudely (through the bars of his cage) as he pads restlessly around inside, stopping occasionally to roar at the onlookers. The evening was completed by part of Cesar Franck's great work the Symphonic Variations for piano and orchestra. This was an excellent choice as it left us in the hands of a really great composer. In spite of Oldroyd's plausible arguments, we remained convinced that in a musical programme convention does not necessarily mean dullness or boredom and though the dates of a composer may not mean very much to everyone they often do mean quite a lot to some. We thank Oldroyd for a most stimulating and interesting lecture. M.A.B. 129
LECTURE RECITAL Margaret Haig and Gertrude Trede Most lovers of "classical" music have their taste formed by the great composers of the 119th century. This taste stretches back through Haydn and Mozart to the 18th century and the chief works of Handel and 'Bach. Music written earlier than that, with rare exceptions, sounds to most people antiquated and dull. It was the purpose of Miss Haig and Miss Trede in their lecture recital on Shrove Tuesday evening (17th February) to show that, in its way, music of still earlier times, in fact as far back as the '14th century, may be enjoyed for its own sake. Their method was to help the members of their audience to penetrate the "iron curtain" of taste that comes at the beginning of the '18th century by trying to make them hear with the ears of contemporaries of the music. This they did, not unsuccessfully, by wearing the eloquent costumes of the various centuries, by describing the life led by people of culture in those days, and by reading contemporary poetry, singing unaccompanied songs and playing pieces on contemporary instruments. The sounds made by the ancient instruments were beautiful, especially the big lute or theorbo, but as Miss Trede said, it was very difficult to tune them, and it might be added, still more difficult to keep them in tune. We would like to thank Miss Haig and Miss Trede for their entertaining lecture. F.W.
SCHOOL CONCERT The end of term concert took the form of a programme of British music, and was held in Big Hall on Wednesday, '25th March, at 6-15 p.m. Its remarkable success was a tribute to Mr. Waine and the music staff. From the first notes of Handel's great Coronation Anthem, "Zadok the Priest", the audience's attention was held by the feast of music offered in this very varied programme, so ably performed by all who took part in it. Indeed, the general standard was so high that on such an occasion criticism would appear churlish. The many instrumental soloists who delighted us each offered some quite distinctive and separate contribution to the well-balanced whole. As the appended programme shows, three pianoforte solos were performed, by P. S. Roe, A. Bloomfield, and R. Shepherd, all of them pleasing, and displaying the different potentialities of the instrument, and J. Ford showed talent in varying moods on the flute. E. H. N. Turner entertained us with a charming piece for violin by Robert Valentine. A sonata for violin and pianoforte was most sensitively performed by R. Atkinson, whose string tone was really beautiful, and he was accompanied at the piano in a very competent manner by J. A. Sutton. The mellow tones of the viola were heard to advantage in the Sussex Lullaby of Alan Richardson, and W. B. Hawkins gave us a thoughtful interpretation of this piece. He then relaxed a little in a cheery lilting Irish jig. 30
A stirring and noble performance of the Trumpet Voluntary of Jeremiah Clarke by M. C. Martin must have impressed people passing down Clifton, and certainly uplifted the hearts of those for whom it was intended. The authorship of this work was ascribed in the programme to PurcelPWood, as Mr. Waine explained, because Sir Henry was desirous of popularizing it, and felt that a famous name such as Purcell's would attract attention more than one which is all too enshrouded in obscurity. The Choral Society performed with a simple charm a madrigal from Ruddigore, but it was in "Zadok the Priest"— a happy thought for Coronation Year—and particularly the Rio Grande, that we heard them to the best advantage. This work, based on South American dance rhythms, is apt to shock those who hear it for the first time, though it has great beauty. So closely is the music wedded to the words that this picture of the great river is made far more coherent and expressive by the union. It is a work of some complexity, to which professional choirs and orchestras have sometimes failed to do justice. It reflects credit on the venturesome spirit of the Society, therefore, that it was attempted at all, but that it was such a thrilling and triumphant performance is highly gratifying. The Choir rose to the occasion magnificently, and were superb in the great climaxes, while they brought a solemn beauty to the quieter passages. The orchestra, theoretically very small for such a work, gave the impression, under the baton of Mr. Waine, of being much more fully equipped, and the kitchen department thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and amused the audience. We are grateful to Miss Mary Davies for assisting us so capably with the contralto solo part. The large and technically difficult part for solo piano was performed with distinction by R. B. Atkinson. The whole presentation was a complete triumph for the music of the School. The end of the concert came all too soon, but with a rousing rendering of Sir Malcolm Sargent's arrangement of "Rule Britannia", in which the whole assembly participated. Somewhat surprisingly, both orchestral and eardrums were intact at the close. C.E.F. The following was the programme :— 1. Chorus and Orchestra Coronation Anthem "Zadok the Priest" 2. Solo No. XII for Flute Adagio-Poco Allegro-Gigg J. FORD 3. Solo Pianoforte Intermezzo P. S. ROE 4. Solo Violin Sarabanda & Gavotta E. H. N. TURNER 5. Orchestra Trumpet Voluntary
Handel John Stanley George Dyson Robert Valentine Purcell-Wood
6.
Madrigal
Arthur Sullivan "When the buds are blossoming" from Ruddigore 7. Chorus, Orchestra, Solo Contralto and Solo Pianoforte Constant Lambert The Rio Grande (the poem by Sacheverell Sitwell) Solo Contralto: MARY DAVIES Solo Pianoforte: R. B. ATKINSON Henry Eccles 8 Sonata for Violin and Pianoforte J. A. SUTTON R. ATKINSON 9. Solo Pianoforte John Ireland Puck's Birthday A. BLOOMFIELD 10. Solo Viola Alan Richardson (a) Sussex Lullaby adapted Howard Ferguson (b) A Jig (from Irish Folk Tunes) W. B. HAWKINS 11. Solo Pianoforte John Field Rondo Scherzoso R. SHEPHERD 12. Chorus and Orchestra The celebrated Ode in Honour of Great Britain called Thomas Arne RULE, BRITANNIA arr. Sargent (words by James Thomson) The audience is invited to join in the Chorus:— Rule Britannia! Britannia rule the waves, Britons ne—ver will be slaves. -
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
THE NATIONAL YOUTH ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN It was in 'August, 1949, that I first had the privilege of hearing the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, then five courses old. The following morning, the "Yorkshire Post" music critic said :"I was not the only person at the concert to be completely taken by surprise when these enthusiastic youngsters opened the programme with Dvorak's "Carnival" overture. Here was alert, disciplined and even sensitive playing that set up a magnificent sound and could have put to shame many a professional orchestra. Perhaps I should not be believed when I say that, in all the music I have heard during the past month (Edinburgh Festival; Salzburg Festival), nothing has quite excited me so much as the noise of this orchestra; an emotion aroused, no doubt, as much by genuine feeling behind the playing as by the playing itself." I, too, was left with glowing reminiscences of that memorable night : I resolved to become a member of the Orchestra. But it was not until '1951 that was chosen to play on their twelfth course at Liverpool. All this time the N.Y.O. had been building up its reputation. I had had a second chance of hearing them in Hull (January, '1954 The "Hull Daily Mail" clearly appreciated the qualities of this one hundred and twenty-strong body of musicians between the ages of thirteen and nineteen :
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". . . As our first big concert in the Festival of Britain programme, this has set a standard which it will not be easy to keep up." By the time I joined, the Orchestra had already given concerts in deven different towns and cities in this country, including an appearance in the Edinburgh International Festival in the Summer of 1951, and had made its first trip abroad, on this occasion to Paris, where two concerts were given : one to the general public in the Palais de Chaillot, and the other before the Jeunesses Musicales in the Salle Pleyel. From the beginning of the Orchestra's history, money was the main worry. Miss Ruth Railton, whose idea it was to found such a body, had saved every penny she could in order to launch her gigantic project. She had realised that there was an enormous amount of musical talent in the younger generation going to waste. She advertised her proposal, and arranged for auditions to be held all over the country. She had over two thousand applications, out of which had to be picked a select hundred. She engaged a secretary, and pleaded with conductors to come and conduct the Orchestra. She also pleaded with many leading musicians to coach the various sections of the Orchestra. The people concerned were most kind and appreciative of her efforts, but many thought that her plans would fall to ruin. They did not. Without Miss Railton's intense enthusiasm, her strong character and magnificent courage, the N.Y.O. would not exist. Consequently, the first course was held during the Easter holidays at Bath (1947). Their first concert was the opening concert of the Bath 'Assembly. The conductor was Dr. 'Reginald Jacques, the eminent conductor of the 'Jacques String Orchestra. A B.B.C. recording was taken. It was decided that a course would be held each school holiday '(the vast majority of members still being at school). A week or ten days of intensive rehearsal both by sections under eminent musicians, and in full under the conductor, would be followed by a concert, or perhaps two. Dr. Jacques conducted during the first four courses, and the Leeds concert which I attended was directed by Mr. Walter Susskind. The directorship alternated between these two until the ninth course (at Hull), when Mr. Anthony Collins (who has recently made some fine recordings on UP. for Decca) took the baton. The Orchestra's president, Sir Adrian Boult, conducted for the first time at Manchester in 'April, 1951. This was the "Manchester 'Guardian's" criticism after this concert : "The attack was precise and the intonation was impeccable throughout an exacting programme The tone was warm and vital, and there were many effects that were touching in their delicacy."
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Sir Adrian is taking the Orchestra to the Edinburgh Festival for their third time in the Summer of 1953. The N.Y.O.'s first Festival concert was "the sensation of this. Festival" ("Weekly Scotsman"). Dr. Bruno Walter, who in collaboration with 'Mr. Dimitri 'Metropoulos was conducting The Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra of New York in a number of concerts at Edinburgh, attended one of the rehearsals. What he said was flared across the tops of newspaper reports : "One of the most inspiring things I have ever heard in my life." When the ,1952 Festival arrived, I had been a member of the Orchestra for three courses. On this occasion, we ate, slept and rehearsed in Abington, a small village in Lanarkshire. Glengonnar Camp was the name given to a group of wooden chalets surrounded by trees and mountains, where all manner of strange and illuminating sounds might be heard in the heat of the day while we were in occupation. We had magnificent weather, and rehearsals were most exhausting. Such was our daily time-table : 7-30 a.m. Rising bell. 8-0 a.m. Breakfast. 9-30-10-45 a.m. Full Orchestra. 110-45-111-1 10 a.m. Break. 11-.10—, 1-0 p.m. Full Orchestra. 1-0 p.m. Lunch. 2-0-3-0 p.m. (Much needed) rest, compulsory for the ladies. of the Orchestra. 3-0-4 0 p.m. Sectional Rehearsals. 4-0 p.m. Afternoon tea. 5-0-7-0 p.m. Full Orchestra. 7-0 p.m. High tea. 7-45-9-0 p.m. A recital by one of the professors. 10-0 p.m. Lights out. A strenuous day indeed. The Pathe-News people arrived on the first day, and took a number of shots. No sooner had they disappeared than two gentlemen in a large Humber drove up. They were from the B.B.C. Along, too, came pressmen with their inevitable cameras. We are always warned of the habits of pressmen. It is surprising how rapidly ten days can pass. The day of the Edinburgh concert in the Usher Hall arrived. I had played in the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and the Winter Gardens, Bournemouth, but this was the Usher 'Hall. Many international celebrities would be present. Edinburgh was forty miles from Abington, so we had an early start—at about eight o'clock. We arrived in time for the final rehearsal in the Hall. (It is sometimes hard to get used to playing in 34
a large concert hall, after being accustomed to play in a much smaller one, such as we had been rehearsing in for ten days. Instead of being very loud and overpowering, it is rather like playing one's own little solo.) Imagine a vast, cold concert hall empty except for small groups of two or three people sitting in the stalls. We rehearsed from about eleven o'clock until lunch, which was taken at an Edinburgh school. 'After the meal we all were told to go and rest on mattresses, specially laid out in the gymnasium of the school. Already the sinking feeling in the pit of the stomach was prevalent in most people. We tried to visualise those countless rows of empty seats we had seen that morning, full of faces—faces of all nationalities and denominations. The B.B.C. were broadcasting us direct on the Third Programme.. Slowly the afternoon dragged away. Tea came. Then buses back to the Usher Hall. 'We had been put through our paces both on that morning and on all concert days of past courses. We, the string section, found ourselves in a large, carpeted green-room with a rather strong smell of stale tobacco and drink. Mr. Rafael Kubelik, who was conducting the Concertgebouw Orchestra of Amsterdam, had spoken a few words to us during the morning's rehearsal. Filled with these, we filed onto the platform, not brightly lit as yet. We sat in our places. I scanned the sea of muttering faces. It rested with us to make this concert as great a success as others we had given. A tremendous standard had been set up the previous Summer in Edinburgh. Were we to maintain it? The lights went up as the leader came on to the platform. He took his bow. The conductor followed close upon his heels : we rose : The National Anthem : The overture . . .PatheNews wished to photograph the overture for the end of their film The bright spotlights required for this could clearly not be switched on during the concert, so they were satisfied at the end. .. In a flash, we were in the second half.. In a flash, all was over. The newsreel men got their film, much to the audience's delight, we having to play once again the overture ("Russian and Ludmilla" by Glinka). A visit to the renowned Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle, and bed at 4 a.m. brought the day successfully to a close. The follow ing night we gave the same programme at Glasgow. The next day we went home. Such, only too briefly, are the main features of the Orchestra's history, and some of my personal reminiscences. I shall finish this article by quoting the words of Mr. Hugo Rignold (permanent conductor of the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra), who directed us on the fifteenth course (January, .1953). 35
Mr. Rignold said : "I consider this to have been the most important work I 'have ever done." W. B. HAWKINS.
Note: Plans for 1953 include a course at Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire (,10th-47th April). Concert : Royal Festival Hall, London (18th April), followed by a week in Brussels and Amsterdam (20th-27th April).
THE FRENCH TOUR, 1953 This year the School tour to the continent, which seems to be hardening into an annual event, took 412 boys to Faverges, a small country town of about 2,000 inhabitants, in Haute Savoie. The choice was based on several factors, of which perhaps the chief was that everyone enjoyed mountains so much last year in Switzerland that another visit to the Alps seemed called for. There was some discussion originally about the possibility of staying in Grenoble, but the majority preferred a country holiday, and so the smaller place was chosen. Perhaps this was fortunate, for during the period of our holiday Grenoble figured in the French press because of its bad weather, including a gale of hurricane force which did much damage. We, on the contrary, were very lucky, and what rain did fall during our visit occurred either at night or while we were in the bus. Faverges is pleasantly situated a few kilometres south of Lake Annecy, and, except in that direction, is surrounded by mountains rising to nearly 8,000 feet. 'Some of its streets are picturesque, and its chief feature is the castle—no quaint ruin, but the home of the manager of the local silk factory and formerly a convalescent home. It was not the architecture, however, nor even perhaps the setting, that made Faverges so attractive, but its atmosphere of rural France, for it is not a tourist centre in any sense, and has none of the features associated with towns such as, for example, Chamonix. Except for a tobacconist who had a few "Souvenirs de Faverges"—chalets, knives, pipes, and the like, all suitably inscribed—there was no shop for the visitor. The cow-bells for sale were real cow-bells for real cows, not painted ones for export. When one member of the party wanted a strap for a broken suitcase, and called on the saddler in the marketplace, the strap was fashioned on the spot from a large piece of hide— ready made ones were not stocked. The hotel, too, was in keeping, and most of us had our coffee at "petit dejeuner" from bowls, and grew accustomed to retaining our cutlery for two courses. Indeed, the hotel was particularly pleasant, and our host was kindness itself. The holiday tried to cater for all tastes. There were walks in the surrounding hills, which were ideal for this, and usually the party split to enable the more energetic to assault some local peak. The higher 36
mountains were inaccessible, for there was still snow about above 5,000 feet, and avalanches were not rare. Many of us saw some from the distance, and the noise was quite enough to warn us of the folly of risking a venture where they were liable to occur. Still, there was climbing enough to satisfy most, and plenty to entertain those whose tastes favoured the valley bottoms. 'Here there were lizards, snakes (one a most handsome, glistening copper colour, which we failed to name, and an adder, whose skin was duly brought home), and a variety of butterflies. 'Alpine flowers, too, were beginning to be plentiful— crocus; sylla; mauve, purple and white violets; periwinkle; and gentian among those we could identify. Those with no taste for natural history would sun-bathe, or try to select the best from the bewildering variety of subjects for photography, or just contemplate. A few spent a happy Sunday afternoon damming a mountain stream. Others returned to Faverges that day to savour a continental Sunday, and were entertained in succession by a cycle race, a football match against a rival village team, and two basket-ball matches. The first and last were impressive, it seems, but local soccer talent did not compare very well—not surprisingly—with that of, shall we say, Middlesbrough. The nearest town was Annecy, where we spent a morning and an odd hour or two. It was probably at its best, for in Summer, to all appearances, it becomes very crowded. The lake, streams, and arcades, e of the old quarter, combine to make Annecy a town of especially thos character and charm. Many would, perhaps, have preferred a longer time to linger over its attractions. Much of our shopping was, however, done in Geneva, which for a dozen or so members of the party was no new experience, for we visited it last year from Montreux. This time we visited the Palace of the Nations, however, which we missed last year, and this proved most interesting. Few could fail to be impressed by the murals of the Spanish artist Jose-Maria Sert in the Council Chamber, while the Assembly Hall must surely be one of the finest rooms of its kind. After this visit the party dispersed for shop-gazing and shopping. Prices were high enough to encourage the one and limit the other, but musical chalets (about which the British Customs showed an unwonted interest later on) were bought in some numbers. On the return journey we left the bus to walk over the old suspension bridge spanning the gorge of the River Usses at la Caille. Built, if memory serves aright, in 1839, it must have been a remarkable feat of engineering in its day, and though now available for foot passengers only, still excited our admiration. The most ambitious day of the holiday was the visit to Chamonix. Those not used to Alpine roads had their first real taste of hair-pin bends and precipices only four or five kilometres from Faverges, as the bus went over the Col des Esserieux, just beyond St. Ferreol, which we had visited on foot. This, however, was only a beginning, for the
37
route took us over the Col des Aravis, which was only just open, ours being one of the first buses to make the journey this year. The journey by this pass, with the snow, the vivid blue skies, the excitements of the road, and the cheerful waves of a number of sunburnt maidens of considerable pulchritude, put the party into high spirits. At Chamonix we were disappointed not to see the peaks of the Mont Blanc massif, which were cloud-capped, but the mountains on the West of the valley were clear and we made the ascent to 'Planpraz and then on to Le Breveut by teleferique. This took us up to 7,80'2 feet in as exciting a "ride" as one could wish, and the party also derived much entertainment from the skiers, especially one whose enthusiasm was greater than his ability. We did not visit very many "show places", though we did go to the local beauty-spots, the cascade and gorge at Sythenex, and the Gorges de Fier, where one walks for about 300 yards along a narrow gangway supported on steel brackets, with a roaring torrent 80 feet below and towering cliffs above, mostly overhanging. At one point the gorge is narrow enough for the visitor to touch both sides. Of buildings, we only visited two—the Abbey of 'Hautecombe and the Castle of Montrottier. The former, one of the main burial places of the princes of Savoy, and situated on the shores of the 'Lac du Bourget, gave most of us our first introduction to an Italianate church interior. The memorials, which are numerous and mostly modern, are all of white Carrara marble, as the guide, a venerable gentleman of ecclesiastical mien, pointed out many times, and while we were impressed by the detail, such as every stitch carved in the clothing, the general effect seemed to us cold and austere. The Castle of Montrottier contains the collection of antiques and curios made by M. Leon Mares, who died in 1916. But to us, perhaps, the main interest was that the castle belonged at one time to, and contains relics of, General Dufour. Now there is a character in the "0" level set book, Forester's "The Gun", called General Dufour. It is a pity that later enquiries have revealed that the two generals are not one and the same, for the Dufours of Montrottier were a Swiss family, and the General was a Swiss commander-in-chief, not one of Napoleon's generals. Still, we had our amusement at the time ! Of the journeys there is little to record. The sea was in the St. Peter's tradition for the Newhaven-Dieppe route on the outward journey, but was calm on the return passage, which we made in the French ship "Lisieux", a new vessel which had made her maiden voyage only a fortnight or so before. French trains proved much better than those unfamiliar with them had expected. An "English style" breakfast in 'Paris showed that French efforts at English cooking are not necessarily better than English efforts at French cooking. For the rest, all went to the plan, and perhaps it is to be observed that schools journeys, like nations, are happy when they have no history. 38
A diary of the holiday may be of interest : Monday : travel, leaving York 1-8 a.m., with dinner in Paris and a night train to Annecy. Tuesday : from Annecy by bus, arriving Faverges for "petit dejeuner". Morning spent settling in. Walk in afternoon to St. Ferreol. Wednesday : market day in Faverges. Walk to Sythenex. In afternoon bus to Gorges de Fier and Castle of Montrottier. Thursday : visit to Geneva. Friday : walk to Col de Tamie. Saturday : visit to Chamonix—outward via Col des Aravis and the Gorges de l'Arondine, back via the Gorges d'Arly. Sunday : walk to St. Ruph. Afternoon in Faverges for some who watched football, etc. Monday : morning in Annecy. Afternoon by bus to Lac du Bourget, visiting Abbey of ∎Hautecombe and Aix-lesBains. Tuesday : free day in Faverges. Depart in evening. Wednesday : breakfast in Paris, and journey home.
C.C.F. NOTES The three section accounts that follow have been largely written this term by the Senior N.C.O.s, an aim many times attempted but seldom achieved. In this introduction, therefore, it will only be necessary to give a general picture of the term's activities. The term has been devoted entirely to the preparation for the various examinations, with little time for combined exercises and the more interesting aspects of training. History was made by the appointment of Petty Officer Shaw to the post of "C.'S.M." Since he is the first member of the Naval Section to be appointed to this office, the choice of style caused some difficulty, and it was finally decided that he should be known as "Contingent Petty Officer"--C.P.O. for short. This rank should not be confused with the Naval Chief Petty Officer, a rank that does not exist in the C.C.F. The Band started training very much earlier this year under the new Drum Major, D/M. Wheatley; and have now put in a consider.able amount of practice in readiness for next term's Inspection. On ,17th February the Army Training Platoon paid a visit to the Drill Hall of the 5th Battalion, The West Yorkshire Regiment, to watch a demonstration, which had been arranged most efficiently by an Old Boy, Capt. Denison, now serving with the T.A. We welcome such visits to our affiliated Regiment as we have only too few associations with it. 39
After much negotiating we have now heard that our request for an additional but has been granted and we look forward eagerly to seeing it erected. Now that the extensions to the Science block have started, we have been compelled to move much of our training equipment over to the already crowded stores, and the new accommodation will help tremendously to ease the congestion. Next term we look forward to two important functions, the Annual Inspection, which will be carried out by the War Office this year, and the Coronation activities in the City, in which we are to play quite an important part. Finally, we should like to thank all those who have been helpful to us in what has been a very full term. R.N. SECTION C.P.O. Shaw, who last term was 'P.O. i/c Naval Section, is to be heartily congratulated on his appointment as Contingent Petty Officer. He is the first to have attained this office from the ranks of the R.N. Section, but not, it is to be hoped, the last. His new duties have necessarily placed him outside the Section, but his influence may still be just as clearly felt. 'P.O. Quarmby succeeds him as P.O. i/c R.N. Section with Lg/Seaman Ibberson as his 2nd i/c. This term has proved less spectacular, though not less active than the previous one, as our attention has been focused on the P.O. and Lg/'Seaman examinations. The good results obtained in these examinations indicate the hard work put in by the candidates, and Lg/'Seamen Ibberson, Moore and 'Humble have passed for P.O.s in both written and oral, although A.B.s Rollinson and Griffiths failed in the latter examination; A.B.s Walton, Macdonald, Delittle, Coates and Leishman have all passed the Lg/Seaman examination, written and oral. The A.B. class, formed from last term's Basic Section, and exceptionally numerous, have been preparing for their examination next term under P.O. Quarmby, and Lg/Seaman Nelson and A.B. Walton have been assisting with the Basic Section. Lg/Seaman Leonard and Ord/Seaman Thomas put in some good work in the early part of the term in fitting the whole Section with new uniforms, and towards the end of term in preparing tackles for the practical examinations. If the emphasis this term has been on work, we may look forward to more out-of-doors activity next term. The whaler has been completely overhauled and is awaiting collection at Naburn. The School C.C.F. has been invited to take part in the Coronation celebrations on the river on 6th June, and the R.N. Section looks forward to this event with keen anticipation. 40
THE ARMY SECTION This term has been spent preparing the Section for the Certificate "A", Pt. II, examination, which was held at Fulford Barracks on Tuesday, 24th July, in a joint examination with Ripon Grammar School. The strange environment did not seem to affect the issue, but it was apparent that the marking was much stiffer than in previous years, and for this reason a IWO% success is not expected again. The fine weather, which has so favoured the sporting activities this term, allowed a great variety of demonstrations and T.B.W.T.s to be organised. The arrangement of having map reading lessons out of normal parade times was successful on two counts, for besides giving the extra time on parades to other pressing topics, it never became boring, and the syllabus was well revised. The discipline of the Section has been good, as has the general turn-out. It was only in the marching that slackness was encountered. All the Cert. "A" candidates were issued with a new booklet, published by Repton, which embodies within a few pages the whole of the syllabus in note form. It is a very helpful booklet; almost too helpful in fact, for some have been heard to say that parades are now unnecessary for the teaching of its contents ! The Gun Crew and Signals have been very active in their mysterious ways. The spare 'N.C.O.s were formed into a Cadre and acted as a Demonstration Squad for the Part II candidates. Under the leadership of Sgt. Hudson they proved to be very useful.
R.A.F. SECTION Two visits have been made to Rufforth during the term, and nineteen members of the Section have each had an hour's flying. Corporal Crossley and Cadets Seaton and Welsh have started gliding at Rufforth, and five applications have been submitted for training as pilots under the Flying Scholarship Scheme. The normal training programme was directed towards the Advanced and Proficiency Examinations, held on 16th March, with results not yet known. Next term it is intended to carry out training less in the classroom and more out-of-doors, for a good deal of emphasis is now placed on training for airfield defence. 'Such training is likely also to be of value to potential C.C.F. N.C.O.s. On the last parade of the term the Section was visited by Squadron Leader Reid, of H.Q. 64(N) Group. 41
NOTES FROM THE SERVICES (No. 1 ADMIRALTY)
FLYING IN THE ROYAL NAVY THE introduction of the big gun into ships of the Navy by Henry VIII some 400 years ago, changed the duties of a Naval Officer from those of a mere sailingmaster to those of Captain of a man-of-war, who had to "fight" his ship. Modern weapons and equipment of ever-increasing complexity demand specialised knowledge, so the Royal Navy now has Gunnery Officers, Submarine Officers and others who, although primarily seamen, are experts in one particular branch of Naval warfare. The largest body of specialists is now to be found in Naval Aviation — the pilots and observers who fly and operate the aircraft of the Fleet. These officers learn not only to fly, but to fly with the skill and precision required for carrier landings at sea. They are specialists indeed. This branch of the Service has had several titles, Fleet Air Arm included, and has passed through many phases. From 1923-1939 it was a mixture of Royal Air Force and Royal Naval personnel but just before the Second World War the Admiralty assumed full control. The flying branch then became an integral part of the Royal Navy and since that time all personnel have been Officers and Ratings of the Navy, taught by the Navy, operating aircraft designed for the Navy, and working from carriers at sea and Naval Air Stations ashore. The Second World War confirmed that carrier-borne aircraft are essential in sea warfare, and the fighter, strike and anti-submarine aircraft of today form the Navy's first and most formidable weapons of attack. The pilots and observers, who man these aircraft, combine the pleasures and excitement of flying with the adventurous nature of life at sea. They are usually either:— Officers serving in permanent Commissions, who either enter as Cadets (a) at 16 and 16* or between 17* and 18* years of age, or ratings promoted from the lower deck. Officers serving under 8 year Short Service Aviation Commissions, who (b) enter between the ages of 17* and 24 and have the chance of gaining a permanent Commission in due course. National Servicemen who learn to fly as R.N. V.R. Officers during their (c) 2 years compulsory service, and then either join R.N. V.R. Squadrons for week-end flying, or transfer to 4 and 8 year R.N. Commissions with the opportunity of making the Navy their career. It is essential that Aviation Officers keep in constant flying practice in order to keep abreast with the rapid developments in modern service flying. Nevertheless, every opportunity is taken to keep them well trained in all their other duties as Naval Officers. You will often see Commanding Officers and Officersof-the-watch in Destroyers and Frigates wearing wings on their sleeves. The Commanding Officer of H.M.S. OCEAN, the carrier operating against the Communists in Korea, was a Naval fighter pilot of the 1939-1945 war. Information regarding all types of Commissions in the Royal Navy can be obtained from
THE SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY (C.W. BRANCH), DEPT. QUEEN ANNE'S MANSIONS, LONDON, S.W.1. 42
(BM/54),
SHOOTING At the beginning of this term very few of us had used the No. 8 rifle. This was unfortunate as the "Country Life" rules were changed so that we had to use it. After the initial suspicion of a new, unproved rifle was overcome, we realised that its double trigger pressure and smooth bolt action were a vast improvement over the Mossberg, but there was some difficulty encountered in trying to group on a target. It was discovered that the team consisted of two types : those who could see the foresight but not the target, and those who could see the target but not the foresight. We looked for the cause, finding the aperture of the back sight was too great, but were helpless as the sights were specified by 'Country Life" to be as issued. Three of the rifles were found to be useless without an arrnourer's help since they were not sighted truly and the back sight possesses no latteral adjustment. We could only do one thing, and that was to practice. We had just three weeks to the first match and throughout that time we considered it good shooting if an individual topped 70. However, we persevered and found new points of aim and techniques in aiming, and the first Finch groups began to appear. Almost in dispair, we had our last practice before the first match. Miraculously, so it seemed, we had suddenly improved, and we managed to better 600 in the match. On the whole, we can be fairly satisfied with the progress made this term. We accepted this season as one of training and discovery, and have succeeded in that fairly well. Our only disappointment was that we could not devote enough time to the "Country Life" landscape targets since we just had to be thoroughly at home with the No. 8. In the "Country Life" competition our lack of practice on the landscape was only too apparent, spoiling a good effort on the straight shoot through. The matches and results for this term are :St. Peter's (601) v. Felsted (615). Lost. v. St. Bartholomew's (614). Lost. St. Peter's (598) v. Rossall (565). Won. St. Peter's (589) v. Ampleforth (677). Lost. St. Peter's (606) v. Leeds G.S. (594). Won. St. Peter's 1(606) v. George Watson's (586). Won. St. Peter's (620) v. King Edward's St. Peter's (643) v. Sutton Valence (677). Lost. St. Peter's (616) v. Denstone
J. Lewis was re-awarded his Shooting Colours, and Shooting Colours were awarded to J. 0. R. Penman, W. R. Ibberson, C. J. Griffiths and T. A. Foy for the 1952-53 season. 43
The official team and averages for the 1952-53 season are :Shot
J. B. Weightman Christmas Term 1 J. A. E. Wick only 1 D. J. Bird J. Lewis J. 0. R. Penman W. R. Ibberson C. J. Griffiths T. A. Foy Easter Term P. M. Hewson P. only t R. D. Beckitt Reserve : J. B. Huzzard
10 4 4 11 11 11 11 10 7 7 3
Average
78.70 79.25 79.00 75.54 79.64 75.54 76.36 74.30 77.00 73.57 68.33
The team's average score was 12 points better than last season's, standing at 611.3.
Classification. Classification has continued this term, organised by Sgt. Gudgeon, and so far 85 cadets have classified. We now have three Marksmen and 20 First Class Shots among the cadets over 16, while many under this age have "Qualified".
SQUASH Five matches were played this term of which three were won. The results were as follows :1. v. THE STAFF. M. J. Wood beat R. F. Harding, Esq., 3-1. W. G. A. Maxwell lost to A. E. R. Dodds, Esq., 0-3. E. A. M. Reid-Smith beat D. A. C. Blunt, Esq., 3-1. M. Willstrop beat E. S. Jeffs, Esq., 3-0. G. B. Pullan beat D. K. Crews, Esq., 3-0. 2.
v. OLD PETERITES. M. J. Wood beat D. J. Oliver, 3-0. E. A. M. Reid-Smith v. D. G. Watson. Stopped owing to injury. W. G. A. Maxwell beat R. M. Garth, 3-0. G. B. Pullan lost to P. V. Leigh, 0-3. M. Willstrop beat I. S. Macpherson, 3-1.
3.
v. R.A.F., CRANWELL (Away). M. J. Wood beat M. Lees, 3-0. E. A. M. Reid-Smith lost to A. N. Other, 0-3. W. G. A. Maxwell lost to R. Jones, 1-3. M. Willstrop lost to P. Cock, 2-3. R. Nelson lost to N. Pickersgill, 2-3.
4.
v. DONCASTER GRAMMAR SCHOOL (Home). M. J. Wood lost to M. M. Brew, 0-3. E. A. M. Reid-Smith lost to D. G. S. Smith, 0-3. W. G. A. Maxwell lost to M. Norton, 2-3. M. Willstrop beat J. G. Wilkinson, 3-2. R. Nelson lost to P. J. Wormold, 2-3.
44
5. v. OLD PETERITES. M. J. Wood beat J. A. Hannon, 3-0. E. A. M. Reid-Smith lost to P. V. Leigh, 0-3. W. G. A. Maxwell beat R. D. Watson, 3-1. M. Willstrop beat R. M. Leigh, 3-1. R. Nelson beat T. Hobson, 3-0.
Three competitions were Played this term. The Senior was won by M. Willstrop, the Intermediate by W. G. A. Maxwell and the Junior by N. J. Magson. In the House matches School House beat the Rise in the first round (3 2). Manor beat temple (3--2) and Grove beat School House (3-0) in the semi-finals. In the final the Grove beat the Manor (3-0). M. J. Wood, as Captain of the School team, was the outstanding player of the year, and did not defend his title in the School Squash Competitions. We look forward with interest to his progress in the Drysdale Cup. -
HOCKEY, 1953 RETROSPECT Before the season started Fawcett, the Captain-elect, was told that he would be unable to play at all owing to cartilage trouble : this was a sad blow both for him and for the side, but he played a Captain's part nevertheless, giving much valuable assistance and support both to the XIs and to the other games. Four old colours therefore remained—Reid-Smith in goal, Booth at right half, Wood and Pullan at inside and outside left respectively, and the latter acted as Captain on the field. Practice games soon revealed promising forwards in Burdass, Maxwell, and Moore, whilst Hudson and De Little appeared to be the obvious full backs, although Crowe was little behind either and actually deputised very successfully for Hudson in one match. There was, however, a lack of halves : eventually Gudgeon filled the centre-half position and although not brilliant, performed there quite adequately. For left half the "Beginners" game had to be approached and it produced Crosskillnot a genuine beginner, although only 15 and in his first year of hockey at the School. He justified his selection by playing very well throughout the season. It soon became clear that the team's main strength lay in the forwards—a rare state of affairs in School hockey, but an extremely welcome one. As the season progressed the newcomers to the forward line outshone the two old Colours, both of whom lost form after a promising start : 'Maxwell was a danger to any defence with his speed off the mark, and Moore and Burdass on the right improved with every match. 45
The defence was by no means weak—in five school matches they only conceded seven goals, of which five were in one game—but the backs tended to stray out of position, and some of Gudgeon's clearances were not very well directed. As a result. Reid-Smith was often called upon to save the day, and right nobly did he do it—many of his saves were acrobatic and savoured of soccer rather than hockey, while he sometimes kicked a prodigious length. The same side was played in every match apart from the one occasion mentioned above, and only against the Old Peterites and Worksop did they fail to impress. The 2nd XI experienced a less pleasing season, although their record shows a satisfying progress in the right direction. They suffered in practice from being outclassed by the 1st XI and their forwards consequently never formed the habit of scoring goals; however, in the last two matches they showed some promise and in a season of normal length they might well have developed into quite a good side. A word must be said of the "Beginners" games—the first, under Canon ,Patteson's guidance made much progress and produced some very promising players, whilst the second, under Mr. Manby, showed commendable enthusiasm and, in places, not a little science. Many beginners would do well to remember, however, that, although casual hockey in spare time is generally admirable, far more benefit would be derived from it if some slight effort were made to obey the more common rules, in particular the one which prohibits the brandishing of the stick in emulation of a broadsword expert about to cleave his unfortunate opponent from helm to chine.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS 1st XI v. Ashville College ... v. Scarborough College v. York H.C. ... v. Bootham School v. Old Peterites v. Worksop College v. Trent College
Away Won 3-1 Away Won 3-0 Away Lost 2-4 Away Won 6-0 Home Lost 2-4 Home Lost 1-5 Home Won 7-1
2nd XI v. Ashville College ... v. Bridlington School 1st XI v. Bootham School ... v. Worksop College ... v. Trent College ..
Away Lost 1-5 Away Lost 1-11 Home Lost 0-1 Home Lost 5-6 Home Won 2-1
The final composition of the 2nd XI was as follows :—J. Ford; P. Crowe,
D. C. Holmes; D. A. Macpherson, J. 0. Walton (Capt.), J. H. Hepworth; R. Nelson, C. H. Lewis, R. G. Bough, H. P. G. Shaw, M. A. Butterworth. 46
CHARACTERS OF THE XI (Outside Left). At the beginning of the season he looked very G. R good and combined well with his inside left, but later on he took far too long to centre and developed the bad habit of trying to dribble along the goal line instead of getting the ball across. A. T. Boom (Right Half). Probably the best hockey player on the side, he was a tower of strength to the defence and gave his opposing outside left very little rope. He also fed his forwards well, excelling in the cross pass to his inside left. E. A. M. REID-SMITH (Goalkeeper). His coolness and sound judgment were an inspiration to the side, and he rarely made a mistake. His kicking was excellent, even if, on occasions, it was a little unnecessary. M. J. Woo]) (Inside Left). He promised to be the mainspring of the attack but lost form halfway through the season, developing a fatal tendency to delay his pass and thus hold up the line. Worked hard in defence and often shot well from short corners. R. J. DE LrrTLE (Left Back). Apart from a tendency to get out of position, he played well and his hitting was usually clean, if sometimes misdirected. He was prone to slowness in clearing in the circle. W. G. A. MAXWELL (Centre Forward). A very welcome "find", he scored ten of the 24 goals scored and with a little more steadiness in front of goal would have scored many more. His speed off the mark and eye for an opening made him very dangerous, but he will have to improve his stickwork to make the most of these attributes. W. B. CROSSKILL .(Left Half). A young player of natural ability, he showed great promise, having the happy knack of being in the right place at the right time—the mark of the good player. He sometimes, however, allowed his opposing outside right too much time to get the ball under control, instead of intercepting the pass himself. G. M. C. BURDASS (Outside Right). He improved greatly through the season and ended up with a well-deserved hat-trick. His ball control left a little to be desired, but he centred well and knew when to go for goal himself. Combined well with his inside right. J. R. MOORE (Inside Right). At first he looked as if he would be the weak link in the forward line, as he was rather clumsy, but he improved rapidly and soon developed into a very promising hockey player. He worked extremely hard, both in attack and defence, and distributed the ball well, striking up a very happy understanding with his outside right. D. H. GUDGEON (Centre Half), He was generally sound in defence, intercepting centres especially well, but his distribution of the ball was often faulty— he also tended to pat the ball rather than hit it, which made it easy for the opposing side to intercept. •G. B. HUDSON (Right Back). A sound enough player if allowed plenty of time, but he was often too slow in clearing and too fond of first time hitting. P U LLAN
EASTER TERM RUGGER The good weather which we had for most of the term enabled the two Junior games, "A" and "B", to play more Rugger than has been possible for a long time. There were two fixtures for the "A" team and these games proved exciting and encouraging, for there are four or five forwards of more than average size who will be able to remedy the lack of line-out experts in the School.
,
47
The results were :21st Feb. Home 28th Feb.
Home
Pocklington School ... ... Lost Sheffield Schools A.A. XV ... Won
9-10'
12-11
The following played :—J. F. Liversidge (Capt.), D. Kirby (Vice-Capt.), P. J. Ladd, I N. Ridley, N. D. Taylor, D. N. Brocklebank, R. J. Sharp, I. C. Bytheway, M. B. Wilson, M. Ruddock, G. C. Sanderson, N. J. Dick, J. A. Whitmore, T. G. Tomlinson, J. G. Spink, J. M. Ward, W. D. Dodsworth, S. Mackintosh. ,
INTER-HOUSE CROSS-COUNTRY RACE THE GOODBURN CUP As early as the beginning of February, if not earlier, training of House teams began in earnest and had to continue with as little interference as possible with other school activities. Such an arrangement is far from ideal and calls for considerable self-sacrifice on the part of some individuals, but nevertheless it seems inevitable. The pity is that key-personnel in other sports are always doubly involved. but without the limitation of the number of entrants per team the would be far worse. Preparation for such a race is of paramount importance and for the most part was successfully achieved in varying conditions. A survey of the existing course, which has now remained exactly the same since 1949 (if not 1948?), estimates the distance as 3 miles 7 furlongs, taking into account the start across the Old Golf Course and including the loop at the far end of the Ings, where the field adjoining the North Riding Mental Hospital is traversed. This year the homeward stretch down the near-side of the Ings was distinctly wet, but otherwise the course was in good condition, and overhead conditions were favourable when the 40 runners set off at a good gallop on Monday, 23rd February. A running commentary on the race by the Signal Section was not very successful, or shall we say that atmospheric conditions seemed unfavourable. but as far as could be gathered R. B. Atkinson and J. G. Humble shared the lead throughout the whole race, and as soon as the Boat House came into view once again the former soon showed the latter a clean pair of heels. The result was very much as could have been predicted. R. B. Atkinson (T.) (4th last year) won by the length of a street from J. G. Humble (M.) (8th last year) with C. S. Elston (M.) (14th last year) a good third. Previous experience once' again had proved invaluable, and others to follow were W. E. Butland (T.), R. D. Beckitt (T.), P. Smith (G.). R. D. Welch (T.), B. A. Heap (T.). R. Nelson ('S.'H.), and 10th, R. M. Botterill (M.). The time of 24 mins. 59 secs. was slow by previous standards, but undoubtedly R. B. Atkinson had set an admirable pace for so many 13
of his own team to follow in his wake. Temple amassed the lowest aggregate on record (previous best by the Grove in 1949), and are to be congratulated on this fine performance by such a youthful team. Their prospects for the future are indeed rosy. 'House Placings Grove. 6 14 17 29 34 —
:-
Manor. 2 3 10 15 23 24
Rise. 12 181 181 21 30 31
School House. 9 11 16 20 22 28
Temple. 1 4 5 7 8 13
77
131
106
38
ATHLETICS On 26th February our thoughts were turned to athletics "proper" by the visit to the School of Mr. Guy Butler, the famous quarter-miler of the .1920's and now official photographer of the A.A. Association. His film, "Olympic Champions at 'Helsinki, 1952", showed us how it is done by the experts, and an even more enlightening "talk" was afterwards held in the Gym. before a selected audience, which provided a splendid opportunity for many to raise their individual problems and produce their bones of contention. When the season opened with the first of the daily rounds of Standards on 9th March, little did we know that we were entering a spell of fine weather which was to break all meteorological records for this time of year. Conditions were generally ideal for athletics; day after day the wind was negligible, track conditions excellent, and the atmosphere mildly warm. It was in this atmosphere that the Standards programme was exhaustively pursued for '21 weeks. There were few laggards—most of them were in the net—such was the intensiveness of the inter-house spirit, and the improvement shown by individuals from the beginning to the end of this period of training was once again quite remarkable. Few would deny that they were not better for it in the end. Individuals who distinguished themselves by gaining maximum points were :—in Set B : W. G. A. 'Maxwell (G); in Set C: R. M. Kirkus (R.), E. S. Portlock ('R.), 'W. B. Crosskill (S.H.), M. Wilisrop (S.H.), and R. 'D. Beckitt (T.); in Set D : D. Kirby (G.), D. Pfluger (G.), G. V. Plester (G.), and G. R. H. Clemons (S.H.); and in Set E : G. F. B. 'Mitchell (R.). The Rise established an average per head (13.14) which has never previously been attained, and no adjustment has been made over the past few years which has in any way eased the level of Standards. 49
Their effort was hotly rivalled by the other Houses, but their lead on points from Standards, although not so great as last year, was this time sufficient to bring them out worthy winners at the end of Sports Day. Nothing that Temple could do in both mile races before Sports Day, as meritorious as the effort was, was sufficient to close the gap before the end. It is, however, worthy of note that on Sports Day alone, excluding the mile events, Temple gained the most points (691) and the Rise second with 67+. There certainly seems to be a strong argument for the award of a separate trophy for Standards alone. The weather on Sports Day did not live up to the standard of the previous three weeks, but nevertheless was the best we have enjoyed for many years, although this is not exactly flattering. The wind blew strong and blusteringly from the direction of the river and rain was always threatening, but track conditions were still good. School House had the great misfortune in having to cancel one of their star performers, W. B. Crosskill, but for whose loss in the Intermediate age-group they would undoubtedly have secured third place. The level of performances, judged on previous years, was average or a little above average. No existing School records were broken, or even dangerously threatened, but the two best performances were probably the Intermediate '220 Yards won by H. C. Bulmer in 25.4 secs. and the junior High jump won by D. Pfluger at 4 ft. 51 in. The jumping generally was poor, there being a noticeable increase in the number of "no-jumps" at the long jump pit, and style in high jumping was sadly amiss. The 'Rise maintained their lead well enough, and by the time of the final event their position was unassailable. Mrs. Smith, the mother of C. K. Smith, School House Captain, kindly presented the Athletic Shield to IE. A. •M. Reid-Smith, the winning team Captain.
INTER-HOUSE ATHLETICS Saturday, 28th March, 1953 Points from Standards : Rise 200; School House 181; Grove 180; Manor 178. Temple 172. Senior Mile: 1. R. B. Atkinson (T.); 2. Nendick (R.); 3. Butterworth (R.); 4. P. Smith (G.). Time : 5 min. 2.8 sec. Inter. Mile : 1. Heap (T.); 2. Beckitt (T.); 3. Dobson (T.); 4. Portlock (R.). Time : 5 min. 15.4 sec. Senior 100 Yards : 1. Johnson (T.); 2. Lewis (R.); 3. C. K. Smith (S.H.); 4. A. T. Booth (M.). Time : 11.1 sec. Junior 100 Yards : 1. Pfluger (G.); 2. Netherwood (T.); 3. Clemons (S.H.); 4. Mitchell (R.). Time 11.6 sec. Inter. 100 Yards : 1. Bulmer (M.); 2. Equal, Dobson (T.) and Portlock (R.); 4. Kettlewell (R.). Time : 11.6 sec. Senior High Jump : 1. Maxwell (G.); 2. Reid-Smith (R.); 3. Coates (G.): 4. Equal, Nelson (S.H.) and Jesper (T.). Height : 5 ft. °fin. Junior Long Jump : 1. Mitchell (R.); 2. Clemons (S.H.); 3. Equal, Turner (G.), D. T. Sparham (T.) and Plester (G.). Distance : 15 ft. 8 in. Inier. Half Mile : 1. Heap (T.); 2. Kettlewell (R.); 3. Butland (T.); 4, Equal, Shirtcliffe (R.) and Elston (M.). Time : 2 min. 25.2 sec. Senior Half Mile : 1. R. B. Atkinson (T.); 2. Butterworth (R.); 3. P. Smith (G.); 4. Bolton (R.). Time 2 min. 14.0 sec.
50
Senior 220 Yards : 1. C. K. Smith (S.H.); 2. Johnson (T.); 3. Lewis (R.); 4. A. T. Booth (M.). Time : 25.0 sec. Inter. 220 Yards : 1. Bulmer (M.); 2. Portlock (R.); 3. King (T.); 4. Peat ,(S.H.). Time : 25.4 sec. Junior 220 Yards : 1. Pfluger (G.); 2. Clemons (S.H.); 3. B. W. H. Carter (T.); 4. D. T. Sparham (T.). Time : 27.0 sec. Senior Long Jump : 1. Reid-Smith (R.); 2. Maxwell (G.); 3. Butterworth (R.); 4. A. T. Booth (M.). Distance : 18 ft. 31 in. Inter. High Jump : 1. Leonard (S.H.); 2. Penman (M.); 3. Ridley (S.H.); 4. Equal, D. G. Barton (T.) and Hudson (R.). Height : 4 ft. 91 in. Junior Cricket Ball : 1. D. Kirby (G.); 2. Whitmore (T.); 3. Fish (G.); 4. Hall (S.H.). Distance : 61 yd. 1 ft. 81 in. Inter. 440 Yards : 1. Dobson i(T.); 2. Portlock (R.); 3. Birch (G.); 4, Beckitt (T.). Time : 58.4 sec. Junior 440 Yards : 1. Netherwood (T.); 2. D. T. Sparham , (T.); 3. RobbinsJones (S.H.); 4. Roe (R.). Time: 65.6 sec. Senior 440 Yards : 1. Butterworth (R.); 2. C. K. Smith (S.H.); 3. Wood (G.); 4. Lewis (R.). Time: 57.2 sec. Inter. Long Jump : 1. Nesham (S.H.); 2. Bulmer (M.); 3. Ridley (S.H.); 4. A. C. Stubbs (R.). Distance : 17 ft. 2 in. Junior High Jump : 1. Pfluger (G.); 2. Roe (R.); 3. Whitmore ,(T.); 4. F. A. L. Kirby (S.H.). Height 4 ft. 51 in. Junior Relay (110 x 110 x 110 x 110 yd.): 1. Grove; 2. Temple; 3. Rise; 4. School House. Time 53.4 sec. Inter. Relay (110 x 440 x 220 x 110 yd.): 1. Manor; 2. Temple; 3. Rise; 4. School House. Time : 1 min. 53 sec. Senior Relay (110 x 440 x 220 x 110 yd.): 1. Rise; 2. Temple; 3. School House; 4. Manor. Time : 1 min. 49 sec. House Placing: 1. Rise 2731 points. 2. Temple 2561 points. 3. Grove 231 points. 4. School House 2261 points. 5. Manor 2091 points.
CRICKET FIXTURES, 1953 2nd XI
1st XI Wed. May 13 Sat. „ Wed. „ Sat. „ Wed. „ Sat. „ Sat. June Wed. „ Sat. „ Wed. „ Sat. „ Wed. „ Sat. „ Wed. July Sat. „ Wed. „ Sat. „
16 20 23 27 30 6 10 13 17 20 24 27 1 4 8 1I
Clifton C.C. ... Durham School Worksop Coll. York C.C. ... Giggleswick Sch Yorks. Gent. ... Amplef'th Coll Leeds G.S.
Wed. „ Sat. „ Wed. „
15 18 22
Fri.
Staff and Boys Bootham Sch. T.H.Hobson's XI
241 01d Peterites
Sat
„
.,
25
'Under 16' Colts XI Ashville Coll (2nd XI)
-
Bradford G.S. 1st Round Sen Semi-finals Seni Final Senior Ho Craven Gent.
H H H H
Durham School Worksop Coll.
A
H
A
Giggleswick Sch H
A
Amplef'th Coll Leeds G.S.
H
H H A
H A
Bradford G.S.... H
for House Match ... or House Matches use
H v.
H
A
H
51
Durham School A Worksop Coll. A Giggleswick Sett H AmplefT1 Coll
A
1st Round Juni Or Bradford G.S.... H Semi-finals Juni or Final Junior Ho use
Match R.A.F. Linton Bootham Sch.
H
A
'Under 15' Colts XI Bootham Sch.
A
Worksop Coll.
A
Leeds G.S. House Match
A
House Matches Bootham Sch. H Match Drax G.S. Pocklington School
BOATING The term opened well, and boating was only cancelled on three occasions because of bad conditions. The general standard of rowing in the School has greatly improved and the number of "crabs" caught in the House races is definitely on the down grade. As usual the coaching has been shared by Mr. Howat and Mr. Lavender, and we do thank them both for the time and care they have spent on coaching and on the many repairs that are daily necessary. Illness did not halt the progress of many crews, and when it did do so substitutes were always available. A fitting climax to the term's boating was the performance of the First IV in the York Spring Regatta. Permission was kindly given by the Head Master to enter a crew. The crew had only been out five times together before the day of the Regatta, and their performance in winning the Maiden Four's event was very creditable. During the latter weeks of the term the boathouse has been equipped with electricity, which will be an enormous Asset to the Boat Club. We should like to thank those who willingly gave their services in the digging of a trench from the rifle range to the boathouse to carry the cable. Some of these volunteers were not boaters, and their willing help was appreciated all the more because of this. Details of the House races are given below. THE HOUSE RACES-SENIOR DIVISION.
Preliminary Round. Rowed on Saturday, '28th February. School House met Temple in the preliminary round. Temple led from start to finish and won very comfortably by five lengths in 4 minutes 58 seconds. Semi-finals. In the first semi-final Temple, the preliminary round winners, met the Grove, Temple taking the Station side, and the Grove the Minster side. Temple led from the start, and were soon a length up. In spite of a gallant attempt by the Grove to cut down this lead, Temple went on to win by I} lengths in 4 minutes 41% seconds. The second semi-final was rowed between the Manor and the Rise. The Manor took the Station side and the Rise took the Minster side. Manor went up at the start and soon had a comfortable lead which was maintained throughout the course, and the Manor finished the victors by 11i lengths in 4 minutes 45 seconds. The Final. This race between the Manor and Temple proved very exciting. The Manor were on the inside position hoping for an advantage on the bend by the diving-boards. From the start Temple went up by about three feet, but this lead was lost by Love Lane. The experience of the Manor then began to tell, and they went on to retain the Cup by just over of a length in 4 minutes 35 seconds. Mention must be made of the progress of the Temple crew throughout the term. They started the term with only one member of a School 52
crew of the previous year. Heap proved a most successful stroke and he must be commended upon the way in which he kept his crew together. Rowed on Wednesday, Jll.th March. This year the Manor were obviously the outstanding crew in this division. They had three members of the School third four in the crew, and consequently had little difficulty in retaining the Cup for the third year in succession.
JUNIOR DIVISION.
Preliminary Round. This was rowed on the previous Saturday and, after an exciting race, School 'House beat Temple by 2 feet. Semi-finals. In the first semi-final the Manor met School House and won comfortably by 12 lengths in '2 minutes 11 seconds. The second semi-final proved a victory for the Rise, who beat the Grove by '2-i lengths in '2 minutes 26 seconds. The Final. This race, rowed between the Rise and the 'Manor, showed the marked superiority of the Manor crew, who were soon lengths up. This lead was increased to in lengths at the finish, and the time was 2 minutes 17k seconds. (Bow first). SENIOR. Grove :—M. N. Coates, M. J. Kent, D. C. Dick, T. G. Stephenson, T. A. Foy (cox). Manor :—J. G. Humble, R. A. Jackson, J. B. Weightman, C. W. Thompson, R. M. Botterill (cox). Rise :—P. J. Rowbottom, W. R. Ibberson, M. W. Bolton, J. C. Oldroyd, J. R. U. Leishman (cox). School House :—J. M. Holt, J. N. T. Howat, G. D. Gardner, C. J. Griffiths, D. I. Donaldson (cox). Temple:—C. M. Ward, J. C. M. Herring, R. B. Atkinson, B. A. Heap, R. B. Holdsworth (cox).
HOUSE CREWS
JUNIOR CREWS.
Grove :—D. C. Pattison, D. M. Walker, J. D. Birch, J. M. Rollinson, P. D. Allan (cox). -Manor :—J. A. Jackson, J. H. MacDonald, J. M. Saville, C. M. Dunn, I. Wilson (cox). Rise :—D. G. Proudley, R. M. Kirkus, J. B. Claydon, D. A. Haxby, R. M. Scarth (cox). School House :—D. N. Simmons, C. W. Leach, J. P. Wheatley, M. J. McCallum, A. G. Hall (cox). Temple :—N. R. Seaton, R. V. King, J. R. Dodsworth, R. D. Beckitt. I. L. Barton (cox).
YORK SPRING REGATTA. Saturday, 14th 'March. MAIDEN FOURS.
The first race against St. John's College was won very comfortably by 3 lengths. In the second round the School met another St. John's crew. The St. John's crew had the misfortune to break an oar and as the School were about 1k lengths up they were virtually given 53
'"a row-over". In the quarter-final the School beat University College, Durham, without exerting themselves. The final against York City was a rather harder race. The School were on the Station side, and at the start they went up on the York crew quite well. They maintained a good lead all the way down the course and finished about lengths ahead of the York crew. The "Evening Press" quotes the School as being " in all six heats St. Peter's School appeared the most efficient crew". The First IV was :—J. B. Weightman (bow). R. A. Jackson (2). D. C. Dick (3). C. W. Thompson (stroke). T. A. Foy (cox).
C.W.T.
SCOUT GROUP We congratulate Mr. Chilman on his appointment as ViceChairman of York Local Boy Scouts' Association. This is recognition not only of his long service as a Scouter in the School Group, but also of his services to York scouting in general. On 'Wednesday, 28th January, a meeting of the Group was inspected by the Head Master. He then presented their Queen's Scout Badges to P./L.(S.) M. J. ,Baddeley, P./L.(S.) J. E. H. Quickfall, and Sec.(S.) J. H. Baines. In addressing the Group he emphasised the necessity for hard personal work if other boys were to achieve this high standard of scouting. After the presentation the Scouts of the Senior School and junior School Troops took part in an inter-Patrol competition, devised and organised by the Senior Scout Troop.
1. SENIOR. SCOUT TROOP We congratulate P./L.(S.) J. E. H. Quickfall on the award of his Queen's Scout Badge. He travelled to Eton College, with those who gained the Badge last term, to receive the Royal Certificate from Lord Rowallan. A report of their visit appears elsewhere. During the term a course of study for the Ambulance Badge was followed and several Badges were gained. Most meetings were held on Saturday evenings and much time was devoted to preparations for the Cycle Tour. The Cycle Tour to Southern Scotland started from Durham on Monday, 13th April. On unloading the cycles from the guard's van one tyre was found to be flat and it had to be repaired at frequent intervals throughout the day. Fortunately the owner replaced the inner tube the following day. Strong head-winds, sleet, snow, hail, rain and overcast skies typified the weather as we battled over the Border between snow-clad hills, finding it almost as difficult to cycle 54
down hills as up. We stayed at Ferniehirst Castle Youth Hostel, near Jedburgh, during the second night. In this 15th Century Border castle we cooked our supper in the large hall, later sat round a blazing log fire in a large open fireplace and retired to bed by climbing a spiral staircase. We continued to Barns Hostel, near Peebles, through a heavy snowstorm and, in passing, could only raise enthusiasm for those parts of 'Melrose 'Abbey which are still roofed over. During our twonight stay at Barns we visited Edinburgh and did a lightning conducted tour of the major buildings of interest. For the first time during the tour it did not rain and as we travelled by bus we did not care how strong the head-wind was. On the Friday we cycled in pouring rain, but with the wind largely behind us, to Chapelhope, a lonely hostel by the Loch of the Lowes, near St. 'Mary's Loch. The latter part of the journey was over a road which consisted merely of two vaguely parallel strips of macadam. We had an exciting run down this road to Cappercleuch, because, wearing capes, we had to fight to prevent ourselves being blown on to the marshy ground or rocks by gusts of wind as we rounded the comers. We spent two nights at 'Chapelhope and visited the Grey Mare's Tail, a waterfall of some 270 feet, and explored the St. Mary's Loch district. We returned to England on Sunday and spent the night at a small hostel at Rockcliffe-onJEden, five miles from Carlisle. On the following day we again discovered how useful bicycles are to lean on when walking up hills, as we climbed via Alston to a height of nearly 2,000 feet on a moor road across the Pennines. Our destination was a hostel with the curious name of Dirt Pot, which we found to be a converted Primitive Methodist Chapel. The weather had been steadily improving and the last stage of our journey down Weardale to Durham took place in brilliant sunshine. Despite much bad weather we all thoroughly enjoyed the tour and made the pleasant discovery that though hostel meals are generally very good, by cooking for ourselves we could provide substantial and interesting meals at less than two-thirds of the cost of hostel meals.
SENIOR SCHOOL TROOP A good deal of time this term has been spent in preparation for the Easter Hike and, as a result, there has not been the usual progress with proficiency badges and First Class tests. A special effort in this direction is needed next term. A most interesting programme was arranged by the Senior Scouts after the presentation of Queen's Scout Badges, and the Scoutcraft of our patrols was tested very thoroughly. The Patrol Competition for the term was won by the Seals, with the Beavers only one point behind. The Summer Camp will be held at Julian Park Farm, Goathland, from !28th July to 5th August. 55
EASTER HIKE, 15th-22nd April, 1953 The party of fourteen boys and three Scouters left York by the 8-35 a.m. train for Keswick, via Darlington. During the journey five Scouts and a Scouter decided to alight at Threlkeld, the station before Keswick, and climb Saddleback C2,847 ft.). The ascent was started in fine weather but this did not last long and the final thousand feet or so was a scramble up a steep, rocky ridge in a blinding snowstorm. Mr. Cooper, who had gone to Keswick and climbed from there, somehow arrived at the summit at exactly the same instant and led a rapid descent to the Keswick Hostel. Meanwhile the main party had explored the shores of Derwentwater and visited the Stone Circle, east of the town. The next day was very wet. Mr. Bennett, with five boys, left for a two night stay at Honister Hostel. They went by launch across the lake to Derwent Bay and then up the Newlands Valley and southward over the fells into Honister Pass about a mile below the summit. Next morning the mist was swirling round the hostel but it cleared before mid-day and the party climbed southward on to Grey Knotts and continued along the ridge over Brandreth and Green Gable to Great Gable (2,949 ft.). The descent was by Sty Head to Seathwaite Farm for tea and then back to the hostel by road. On Saturday the weather was perfect and a high level route was chosen to Grasmere over 'Green Gable and Esk Hause to the top of Stake Pass, then over Thunacar Knott and down into Easdale to arrive at the hostel just in time for supper. The main party had stayed in the Keswick district on the Thursday and went to Grasmere on Friday by Watendlath Tarn, Ullscarf ('2,370 ft.) and down Far 'Easdale. On the Saturday they went up F.asdale and climbed Sergeant Man ('2,414 ft.) and Harrison Stickle, descending by Stickle Tarn on the return journey to Grasmere. On Sunday Mr. Cooper and five boys went over Helvellyn (3A.18 ft.) and down the famous Striding Edge to Patterdale, where they stayed the night. Next day they explored High Street (2,718 ft.), which was on the Roman route from Ambleside to Penrith, and then joined the main body again at Greenside Hostel in Glenridding. The others had enjoyed a rest day in Grasmere. They went to church in the morning and then basked in the sunshine by Rydal Water until it was time to return to the hostel for supper. On the Monday they all climbed Helvellyn, some descending by Striding Edge and the rest by Sticks Pass to Greenside. The last night was to be spent at Ambleside and three groups set off by different routes which all led over Fairfield 02,863 ft.). The boats on Ullswater tempted one party and they spent a pleasant how 56
on the lake before climbing on to St. Sunday Crag (2,756 ft.). From Fairfield the whole length of Windermere and Coniston Water could be seen with the sea in the distance beyond them and ranges of hills in every other direction. Next day most people went by bus to Windermere Station though a few preferred to complete the week on foot and caught the train with only a few minutes to spare. The party consisted of P./L.s A. G. Hall, D. R. Holt, D. J. Oldman, Seconds T. Chilman, J. R. Loadman, C. J. Quickfall, F. F. Watson, Scouts P. H. C. Burn, I. C. Bytheway, N. j. Dick, D. B. Irvin, D. C. Mayson, N. D. Taylor, S. J. S. Wroe and 'Messrs. Chilman, Cooper and Bennett.
THE QUEEN'S SCOUTS' VISIT TO WINDSOR First, we must express our thanks to Mr. Quickfall, who kindly undertook to transport us by road to and from Windsor. 'As we sped southwards on Friday, 24th April, the weather improved, and by the time we reached Windsor the prospect of a favourable weekend was good. We caught a Windsor-Waterloo train, which runs fairly frequently, and arrived in London just after the "rush-hour". From Waterloo all three of us walked to the Royal Research Ship "Discovery", which is moored on the Thames Embankment about two or three hundred yards from Cleopatra's Needle. The "Discovery" was the ship used by Robert Falcon Scott in his Antarctic expedition; it is now run by the Sea Scouts, and it was here that two of us, who were to stay here, left our luggage before continuing to 'Roland House, which is the normal place for Scouts to stay, and in which the other one of our party was to be accommodated. Having discovered the whereabouts of Roland House, we made our way to the centre of the city and had supper. We then made our respective ways back to R.R.S. "Discovery" and Roland House. A good night was spent at Roland House; in the morning breakfast was about half-past eight and one could get up any desired time before that. On arrival at the "Discovery" the other two were met by a person, who supposedly was a young Sea Scouter, told to collect their kit and get down aft. The person followed up this request with the advice that they should turn in soon, and that he would be down shortly. At Roland House light camp beds were provided, whereas the "Discovery" possessed good, solid timber bunks. A little before seven o'clock on Saturday morning the Scouts in the "Discovery" were startled by the notorious "hoot" and `Vakey, 'Wakey", etc., coming over the very-loud-speakers. When most people were half dressed the loud speaker demanded that all "hands" assemble amidships immediately. The outcome of this was that thirty to forty Scouts were observed running along the Embankment in the direction of Cleopatra's Needle, early in the morning of Saturday, 25th April. 57
The two Peterites escaped from the "Discovery" fairly early, reached Waterloo Station, and deposited their luggage. One went off to visit a relative whilst the other waited for the third to arrive from Roland House. The latter two spent the morning wandering about London, visiting Imperial Headquarters as they did so. We rejoined each other for lunch at twelve-thirty, after which we, along with several hundred other scouts, packed ourselves into the Waterloo-Windsor train. 'At Waterloo we had been divided into squads alphabetically. and consequently Quickfall was separated from Baddeley and Baines. The presentation of the Queen's Scout Certificates took place in the main hall of Eton College, to which we had marched from Windsor Station. Lord Rowallan, the Chief Scout, presented the certificates to each Queen's Scout individually, which involved shaking hands several hundred times and saluting twice as often, in addition to speaking to many of the boys. After the presentation photographs were taken and then we had tea as guests of Imperial Headquarters.
We marched back from Eton College, through Windsor, to Windsor Home Park in which we were to camp. At the camp-fire in the evening new songs were learnt by some of us and, in addition, an excellent performance on the bag-pipes was given by a Scottish Senior I Scout. Saturday night—or rather early Sunday morning—was cold and hence it was not easy to sleep, even though well wrapped up. A Scouts-own-service was held on Sunday morning in the marquee erected for that purpose. The camp consisted of over nine-hundred people, most of whom were in small hike tents; there were thus about five hundred tents in all. At a quarter to one we all alphabetically divided into squads as before, under the command of a Scouter. Then, headed by a band provided by one of the Guards regiments, we marched to Windsor Castle. The night before we had practiced the "halts", "eyes right", etc.; we three were glad that we were in the 'C.C.F. at School. On the slope up to the main gates of Windsor Castle, which leads into the quadrangle, we halted, and waited for the Queen to take her position on the dais. We then marched into the quadrangle of the 'Castle, turned right towards the Sovereign's Entrance, and then left towards the Queen. Looking out of one of the windows on our right was Prince Charles, but not all in the parade saw him. On the dais, slightly to the front, stood the Queen, dressed e of in black. Behind her were Princess Margaret and the Duk Edinburgh, who was talking to Lord Rowallan. After passing the Queen, we entered St. George's Chapel for the special Scout St. George's Day service. The Dean of Windsor, the Right Reverend Eric Knightley Chetwode, officiated. After the service we filed out through the choir, passing the tombs and vaults of 58
,
many of the British Royal Family. On leaving the Garter Chapel we assembled in the court in front of the main steps, from which Lord Rowallan, standing a few steps below the Dean of Windsor and two other clergymen, made a short speech. He told us of his intention this year not to ask the Queen to take the salute, since she had so many public engagements; he went on to say that the Queen had requested that she be invited to attend. He ended by calling for three cheers for Her Majesty, and, afterwards, one for the Dean of Windsor. After this we marched back through the crowded, sunlit streets of Windsor, to the camp-site, where we disbanded, and returned home. M.
j. BADDELEY, J. H. BAINES, J.
E. H.
QUICKFALL.
THE JUNIOR SCHOOL We are often inclined to consider that the Easter Term is the term for colds, infectious diseases, and some general unpleasantness, but this term we have really managed very well indeed. It is true there was a run of mild influenza amongst the boys, but the School was not disorganised as most of the cases quickly recovered, and so the events of the term have been carried through successfully. The weather must be the subject of some comment, for, with the exception of the strong gale of 31st January-4st February the greater part of the term has been remarkably still and windless, and perhaps as a consequence there have been many foggy mornings, as those of us who cycle to School every morning knew very well. We have had practically no snow, and very little rain, but we have had many frosts, so that on several games days the grounds have been too hard for rugger. The first Lesser Celandine in flower was brought in on 23rd February and several 'Coltsfoot flowers on the same day, but they were very early forerunners, real signs of coming Spring did not appear until a week or two later. Notable specimens brought in for Natural History lessons include two Pygmy Shrews, a nearly white Stoat, a Weasel, a Jay, a Waterhen and a Great Tit. Amongst the activities of the term there have been several event., of interest. On 118th January a good proportion of the boys in the Junior School attended the special Epiphany Service in York Minster. On Ash Wednesday a special service for the whole of the Junior School was held in the School Chapel at which the Chaplain gave a short address. On Thursday, 126th February, the boys of our upper forms saw a film entitled "Olympic Champions of Helsinki", which interested them very much. 59
A Concert was given in the Big Hall on Wednesday aftern 11th March. This concert was based largely on the ordinary wo done in School periods, and showed the progressive work—singing instrumental—from Ji to Jvi. A considerable number of parents an friends were present. Our Annual Boxing Tournament was held on Wednesday, 25th March, when there were fourteen contests and a very keen spirit was shown in a very creditable standard of boxing. We are very grateful to Captain E. Norris, who came to referee the contests, and who gave some very useful advice to the boys at the end of the Tournament. So we must bring to an end this very brief summary of the term's doings; for the full account of the Scouts, Cubs. 'Games and House details we should remind readers that these are printed in the "Olavite", which is the complete record of our doings.
SALVETE (January, 1953) M. J. Barney.
P. A. Barney.
VALETE (March, 1953) J. M. Lynch.
D. S. Moat.
ST. OLAVE'S BOXING TOURNAMENT Wednesday, 25th March, 1953 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
9.
10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
CONTESTS A. N. Crowther beat L. T. Beaumont. D. G. Woolley beat M. R. Hornby. M. C. Thain beat J. A. Baldwin. I. T. Parkin beat M. W. Foster. F. J. Hewitt beat B. K. Smith. M. P. Giddings beat J. M. Holroyd. S. N. Harrison beat J. W. Beckett. C. M. Wilkinson beat A. G. Black. R. G. Armstrong beat D. H. Rhodes. W. M. Sessions beat J. R. Shannon. D. S. Ridley beat M. G. Adcock. T. C. James beat J. G. Wright. W. Gibson beat W. E. Montague. M. K. Oldham beat A. N. Butland.
Duration of bouts:—Three rounds of one minute. One minute interval between rounds. Referee: Captain E. Norris. Judges: K. G. Chilman, Esq., J. S. Cooper, Esq.,
J. N. Gaastra, Esq. Announcer: A. W. Ping, Esq. Timekeeper: P. M. Lanning, Esq. Instructor: R.S.M. P. F. Power.
60
D. A. C. Blunt, Esq.,
JUNIOR SCHOOL FOOTBALL The only item of special interest other than normal games on Tuesdays and Thursdays was the playing of the match v. Drax Grammar School Juniors' XV at York, postponed from last term owing to the frozen condition of the fields at that time. We lost a very enjoyable game by 9 points to 6; this was partly our own fault, as on one occasion our player carried the ball over the dead-line in his excitement, and failed to ground the ball when he passed over the try-line. After the Cross-Country Inter House League was run off we were able to continue with Rugger and Soccer games until the last games day of term thanks to the unusually dry state of the playing fields.
ST. OLAVE'S CROSS COUNTRY, 1953 -
This year Spartans won the shield by a comfortable margin, their Seniors and juniors being unbeaten throughout the season. Thebans and Etruscans tied for second place. In the Senior events, Holroyd had little difficulty in winning all his races, and he shows real promise as a runner, as he will still be at St. Olave's next year. In the championship he was followed by Collingwood and Bygate, both of whom ran well, although Wheeler, R. M., might well have been second if he had been fit. The 'Middles suffered from illness, both May, M., and Cormack, who were easy winners in previous races, being unable to compete in the championship. !Rhodes, J. J., won this event in fine style. Evans, R. L., who recovered well from a fall earlier in the race, and Fenton followed him home. Of the Juniors, Dukes, T. A., won all the league races, and it was a surprise to see him beaten in the championship by Armstrong, who produced a more powerful finish. Holgate was third. The table below gives the results in detail House.
1. Spartans 2. J Thebans / Etruscans 4. Trojans
:-
League. Championship. Seniors. Middles. Juniors. Seniors. Middles. juniors. Total. 1 1 3 14 3 3 1 0 2 2 1 8 3 0 8 3 0 1 6 0 2 2 2 0
SCOUTING Junior School Troop Elsewhere in this issue appears an account of the Inspection of the Group and the Presentation of Queen's Scout Badges by the Head Master. This event, coupled with a further influx of recruits from
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the Boarding Houses, has done much to stimulate activity in this section of the Group. An unusually large number of Scouts have made great progress with First Class Tests, while there has been a tremendous urge, particularly from the Boarder Patrols, to complete the '2nd Class Badge tests. In order to accommodate all the Wentworth Scouts it has been necessary to create another Patrol. The members of it chose the name of Kingfishers. This Patrol soon set a high standard and succeeded in winning the Inter-Patrol Competition for the term. After completing a course of instruction at York City Fire Station the following Scouts passed the examination for the Firefighter Badge :—P./L.s Parkin, F. N., Knapton, House, Seconds Rhodes and Steel, Scouts Hopkinson, Beaumont and Parkin, G. D. The Linguist Badge was won by P./L. Russell, Seconds Fenn, J. L., and Steel; the 1st Aid Badge by P. /Ls House and Parkin, F. N., Seconds Fenn, J. L. and Rhodes.
WOLF CUB REPORT In order to reduce our alarmingly long waiting list, we are trying out the experiment of running a second Pack meeting next term. If the experiment is a success, we shall continue with two small packs, which is certainly a better proposition than one inordinately large one. If the experiment fails, it will be comparatively simple to combine the two packs, and continue with a long waiting list. This term the numbers have remained at twenty-eight, and we have been quite successful. We have gained three second stars, two first stars, and ten badges, including two Leaping Wolves. In the Inter-Six Competition, Greens beat Reds by four points, Yellows and Blues following some way behind. On 28th January we watched the Head Master inspect the Scouts and present three Queen's Scout Certificates. We were very proud to learn that two of the recipients had started their Scouting career some years ago in the Green Six. Later, it was our turn to be inspected by the Head Master, who seemed quite pleased with us.
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EDITORIAL NOTICES The Peterite is the magazine of St. Peter's School, York. The Editors solicit literary contributions and general correspondence from past and present Peterites. No notice can be taken of anonymous correspondence. Contributors may, if they prefer it, send their name in a separate envelope, which will not be opened unless the contribution is accepted. Where the contributor's name is not intended for publication, his "nom-de-plume" should be enclosed as well. The subscription to The Peterite is 6s. Od. per annum, payable in advance, i.e., before the issue of the first number of the year (January). Members of the O.P. Club receive The Peterite gratuitously. The Peterite is published three times a year, at the beginning of each term.
If any members of the O.P. Club should not receive their numbers of The Peterite, the Editors would be obliged if notice could be sent at once to The Bursar, St. Peter's School, York. The Editors of The Peterite will be glad to supply any past numbers which they may have to those desiring them, at the price of Is. Od. per copy. Applications for advertising space to be made to The Bursar, St. Peter's School, York.
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