EDITORIAL STAFF P. J. Bellamy C. Clutton G. R. Napier F. Poorooshasb Rosanne Ward W. C. Newbold, Esq. Artists W. F. Morris S.J.E.Evans T. G. Hadcock Volume Number November MICHAELMAS TERM 1977 Captain of School: T. F. Ellis Prefects LR. Attoe A.C. Bonell G. Jinks M. J. W. Napier N. J. Phelps G. Owen S. Wongsanguan R. C. Wynne-Griffith Sacristan: J. W. McClure LENT AND SUMMER TERMS 1978 Captain of School: A. C. Bonell Prefects: A. C. Middleton W. M. H. Reynolds N. H. Rocholl R. F. Smail D.C. E. Smith A. J. C. Tunnicliffe NJ. Sacristan: Shann xc 315 1978 —e F DITORIAL ~o— EDITORIAL The Editors would like to content themselves with two thank yous this year. Firstly a thanks to all who supply us with photographs; in particular P. J. N. Knowles and T. C. Howitt-Dring who unsolicited have provided the majority of the photographs. ‘And secondly, a thank you to Mrs. Kay Eburne who has for the past four years typed out the copy of the magazine. From the safety of the Lodge she has spent many hours deciphering han- writings and enduring the whims of the editors. Life will not be the same for us.COMMON ROOM NOTES This term we welcome to Common Room Mr. P. C. Spicer as Director of Music; Mr. M. J. Wilcox (Head of Art); Mr. J. L. Wickson (English, History, Geography); Mr. S. Bailey (Brass) and Miss M. Halsall- Williams (Director of Arts Centre). Mr. W. H. Barnett is heading the Appeal this year in a full-time capacity; consequently Mr. A. E. Jones takes the responsibility for his academic work. We wish all an enjoyable stay at College. Leaving this year is Mrs. K. Owen, who has worked so hard with the dyslexics. We thank her for all the help she has given. Mr. & Mrs. V. H. Howard are leaving the Library this year. Their place is being taken by Mrs. F. Bates. V.H.H. is continuing his connections with College, for he has taken on the responsibility for the O.E.section ROBERT BROWN “It is never easy for a relatively newly arrived Headmaster to say goodbye to the oldest serving member of the Common Room, for he has never seen him or known him in his prime. While | have been here, Robert has been a conscientious tutor, and he and June, not to mention Caroline, have cheered up many young men of Woodard round their tea table. He has also founded the Chequered Flag Club, pioneered a series of popular annual visit to Art Galleries and built up a library of colour slides in addition to his art and pottery in the classroom. His friends in Common Room remember him in many other roles. Sailing on Whitemere, organising the Shooting with Sergeant Cross, playing a full part in the life of the Junior School before it left for Prestfelde, organising Police Cadets, dealing with careers, and year by year producing the large quantities of scenery demanded by the Cecil Howard Shakespeare productions: an impressive list. | speak, therefore, not only on my own behalf, but also on that of lan Bier and the legendary Evans Prosser, when | say thank you for all that you have given to this community and wish you and June a happy, long and active retirement.’” 2 ANTHONY DOWLEN AA vital part of our Chapelis its music — indeed as you know | believe it to be a vital part of the whole of College life. For the last 5 years it has grown from strength to strength under the enthusiastic single minded direction of Anthony Dowlen. Whe he arrived apart from the annual musical work and the Chapel choir there were but 28 music pupils, and the orchestra was only an illustration in the prospectus. Now there is a full orchestra and a string orchestra. There are over 100 music pupils providing a wide range of en- tertainment from madrigals to informal concerts after prep. The catalogue is almost endless and the standard of these events is rising all the time. Obviously his talented staff take much of the credit, but his has been the inspiration and organisation, and has been a magnificent achievement not least because as the Department has grown it has continued to serve us all and not the talented few. He has even made us enjoy our Congregational Practice! Beyond the music he has contributed much as well. His ski-ing holidays are always much enjoyed, and the sounds that came up from his league cricket matches speak for themselves. | shall always be grateful to Anthony for the way he has revolutionised our music, and set standards of variety and per- formance that have provided a significant civilising influence in our community. JEREMY MORRIS | shall never forget him one bitter Sunday afternoon marching up and down at Light Infantry pace in the front quad, one of a squad alongside eleven boys, drilled by an R.S.M. from the Sir John Moore barracks. Here was devotion beyond the call of duty. If this kind of enthusiasm continues at Brynaston where he moves after one year temporary appointment, they will have gained not just an excellent Linguist and a sensitive player of the viola, but also @ man motivated in the best traditions of Schoolmastering. To Jeremy and his family I say thank you, and | know you all join me in wishing them every happiness in their move to the South.HEADMASTER’S SPEECH 10th June, 1978 Provost, Bishop, Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen, Four weeks ago today, the Archbishop of Canterbury dedicated the new Rose Window at the West End of Lancing Chapel in the presence of the Prince ‘of Wales — and myself. Also present were some 11 Bishops, not to mention 4,000 other people. It wes a great and moving occasion bringing together for the first time the Head pupils and teachers together with the Chaplaincy of all 32 Schools in the Corporation. Ttmay surprise some of you that | have chosen to recall the Rose Window, knowing how deeply | feel about the need for a massive Endowment for our schools, and at the same time knowing how great has been the cost of th project. However, | have come to view it as the Woodard Corporation's alabaster box of ointment, and believe that its symbolism is right. Not only isi a firm statement of a belie in spiritual values in a materialistic age, but itis also a statement of our belief that to continue something until it is thoroughly finished is that which brings the true glory. Perhaps the thing | shall remember about the day most, is the encouragement it gave me and | think all those involved in the Corporation, that both the Heir to the Throne and the Primate of All England bothered to find the time to acknowledge the importance of our schools. At a time when independence is under fire, and indeed the Christian ‘gospel as a proper part of education is also in question, such a clear statement of approval of our intentions and support for our schools was most heartening. ‘The symbolism of the Rose Window, can | think, be profitably taken further. As a young Master many years ago at Radley, whenever | could find an excuse, | made a detour with parties of boys to visit the Parish Church at Fairford. Here, as | am sure you know, there is the finest set of medieval glass in any Parish Church in England. We are told that John Tame who planned the Fairford windows wanted it to serve as a complete picture Bible from which, not only the town, but all the district would derive spiritual profit, and people came from far and wide to learn from it. Visual aids you see are older than some people realise. It seems to me that the Rose Window, is an excellent visual There are, of, course, stained glass windows and stained glass windows. You may recall the late Mrs. Battlecock of Clifton: "This is the window to my lady wife, you cannot see it now, but.in the day ‘the greens and golds are truly wonderful. This window is the glory of the Church, at least | think so”. ‘Such a window, | susp resembles almost all other stained glass In it | am pleased to tell you that the Ellesmere College Crest shines almost brighter than any other by virtue of its golden background. I now hope to show you that the College, too, shines brightly by virtue of its many activities over the past year. In so doing | would like to give you an absolute standard by which to judge what we have done, for in the land of the blind the one eyed man is king and it would be very easy for me to eulogize about our per- formances in a parochial way. tor this your, Her Mojoty’s Inspectorate published an excolent booklet called "‘Curriculum 11-16". In their opening paragraphs they tell us that the first duty of compulsory secondary schooling is to help the pupils to realise their potential as fully 28 possible, and to become the better equipped in skils and attitudes to face the future. | would ask you to judge our performances by these criteria. Looking first at academic achievement itis a source of great satisfaction to _me that two young people, Christine Bowyer-Jones, and Sonathan Phelps saw ft to entrust their Oxford aspirations to the Collage, and that both were successful. A third young man, Jonathan Shann, set hs sights ‘on Cambridge and itis pleasing that he, too, was successful. “The results of ordinary mortals were aiso pleasing at ‘A’ level. Apart from ‘one disastrous subject — which gives every appearance of being put to rights this year — 78% of papers taken were passed — well above the best ever of last year. The ‘0’ levels remained much as before, and although the majority obtained what they need — some excelled themselves. | am sure they can — and willbe improved. Improvement on the academic front is always important and in the area of General Studies having already inserted @ voluntary course in Bachelor Cooking on Thursday evening at Moreton Hall, we now plan a two period a week one term course for all the Vith form in Public Speaking. From time to time | am painfully reminded that here is a gap that needs to be filed, We have been fortunate in appointing the former Head of English at Moreton Hall, Miss IM: Halsall- Willams, an expert inthis field to join us in September. For 75% of her time she will be teaching English alongside this General Studies com- itment. For the rest of her time she will occupy the recently vacated post of Director of the Arts Centre. ‘You may be wondering how the Centre is faring inthe interregnum, and | am delighted to tell you itis going very well indeed. The new management designed to involve meny more people both within and outside the College is proving a success. There have been fewer events but they have run at a profit, and | am most grateful forall the support we have received, par- ly from West Midland Arts who have given us their ful blessing and ity Barnett whose energy and enthusiasm has ensured continuity and ity, and a full programme of exhibitions booked through until October pA 19791 ‘The present Exhibition in the Centre is of Architectural drawings by the Shropshire Society of Architects. Itis well worth a visit both as a valuable piece of careers information, and as education in the realm of Civil Engineering. The importance of enginecering in education was, as you know, part of my theme last year when | said: ‘That which is lacking here is indeed lacking in the majority of our schools: an environment and atmosphere that gives engineering status and respectability on a par with the more academic disciplines. For too long engineering has been a dirty word associated with dungarees and spanners. | believe that this is something we must put to rights as soon as possible, and in consultation with industry. That is why | have proposed to the School Council, and they have agreed, that to honour our centenary in 1964.a modern tengineering and design centre should be built’You may well ask what has happened in the intervening twelve months and the answer is a great deal, but as in the early days of the west front of Lancing Chapel, piles of concrete were of necessity sunk many feet into the ‘Sussex downs to no visible effect, so here a lot of important foundations have been laid. First we have submitted our ideas to industry asking them for their views, and the response has been most encouraging. Detailed replies were received, obviously the result of much thought at a high level. From these replies we have discovered grest support for the venture, confirmation of some ideas, and many interesting new ones. Of particular interest to me was the ‘emphasis that almost everyone put on the importancemf teaching the art of Teport writing and of concise written and spoken communications. All this ‘work is being carried out by Andrew Thomson, Head of Applied Mathematics, ‘who has also accepted an invitation by I.C.| to spend three weeks of the summer vacation with them seeing Engineering at first hand. For our detailed plans we will await the advent of N. and F — or what must surely happen: a Grastic revision so that the final system matches the criteria laid down when it was first envisaged. At the moment it fails in this completely while making a fourth year at University almost inevitable. We are one of 10 H.M.C. schools actively involved in a Research project to evaluate the demands the new system will make upon our schools and to assess its effectiveness in providing for our pupils needs. ‘Alongside the academic research has gone the planning of the Engineering and Design Centre itself. This will be in overall control of Terry Howitt-Dring, and he has kept a watching brief on the plans as well as visiting a number of schools making use of their experience. Here, too, ideas on space Tequirements, and equipment needed (promised too) from industry has be invaluable. The Architect has produced an imaginative plan. By use of existing walls and structures the whole can be built for just over haif the cost of a new building of the same floor area. Even so, it will need much money and to raise it we plan to launch "The Centenary Appeal’. | am confident that many of those ‘who covenanted to our last Development Fund will continue to contribute While new parents and more recent old boys will join them, making not only this Centre possible, but also the provision of our final phase of study development, 40 single studies capable of use as study bedrooms. These are essential as I'know every ‘A’ level student stil in a study day-room will agree. We have decided not to employ a professional fund raising company. Rather a member of Common Room — Bill Bamett — has agreed to be seconded for ‘one year from his boat and range building programme. It is worth noting these for they underline very clearly the fact that we are ve that the world owes us a Staff and pupils alike are all prepared in a wide variety of ways to give of their own time and ‘energy to help provide for their needs. Four boats have been built by the boys = 2 Mirrors and 2 Miracles. They are now in use almost every day by our joint Salling Club with Moreton Hall. 18,000 bricks have been laid for our new ‘outdoor range and this willbe opened at the end of term. ‘There is one other project for which money has already been coming in. The conversion of Cwm Penmachno to a Field Study Centre. Here detailed plans have been drawn, planning permission obtained, and £5,000 has been Taised by boys’ efforts in last year’s sponsored walks, and in gifts from several Trusts and parents. In addition all the boys’ earnings during term time from the filming at the beginning of this term, together with most of the monies earned by College — the balance goes to the Endowment Fund — will bring the available total to about £13,000, On Wednesday, the Schoo! Council agreed that we can go ahead, and build as soon as | can find another £20,000. Once pput in good repair it can be made self-supporting while providing an ideal base four our Geography and Biology fieldwork, and continuing as a centre for many of our wide variety of adventure training activities. ‘As you know these form the backbone of much of our Friday afternoon activity programme. They all continue to provide valuable enjoyment and training for the majority of the school. Scouts, Venture Scouts, Outdoor Training Unit, and C.C.F. all have their special attraction and characteristics. ‘The Venture Scouts are among other things our first line of defence against fire, and this year have been on an intensive full day course with the local brigade. They also took part in a full scale exercise involving four appliances ‘organised by the Regional Brigade at College two weeks ago. For their more regular activity they are engaged on the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. Four members have already gained their silver, six more are well on the way. ‘The Outdoor Training Unit are also impressive, and since | spoke to you les yar three members have been to Buckingham Palace to recive their Gold ward. ‘The C.C.F. for its part continues to be one of the outstanding units in the country — a view expressed after a recent visit by an inspecting Senior Officer. (Of course, not everybody wants to rush madly around in the open air on a Friday afternoon, nor yet at weekends. For such as these there are quieter pursuits available. One of the most important of these is the Social Service Group, who regularly visit old people in the town to do their shopping, to garden, to talk and perhaps most important of all, to listen. Others are taken regularly by Mrs. Penney to the Cheshire Home in the Ceiriog Valley, where their presence is much appreciated. Later this term for the second time in three years the Shropshire Helping Hand are bringing more than 400 people to the College, and it is the Social Service Group who will organise that afternoon. Many more of the Schoo! will help in pushing wheelchairs and looking after our, visitors. | am told that the visit of three year’s ago was a tremendous success, and everyone is looking forward to another happy occasion. Perhaps at this point | might refer back again to the working papers by Her Majesty's Inspectorate. “if a school itself ig a caring community and expresses that care internally in the quality of relationships and externally through service to the local ‘community, then pupils will be given a deeper understanding of the concepts like love and service, and of what these may demand in personal terms of humane concern”.| believe that here as well as in the earlier-mentioned area of enabling all ‘our pupils to achieve their potential, we can hold our heads up high. Not of ‘course that such comparisons are easily measured. The more obvious com- parisons which are usually made, are those meesured on the games field, and it would be a strange Speech Day i| failed to mention our performances th In the Football term, our team was, in my opinion, a better one than tt which had an unbeaten record the year previously. This owed much to the fact, that our old boy, Bill Beaumont, who as you know is Captain of England, bothered to give time and energy to coming down before term began for @ three day coaching course. It is a tremendous tibute to him that in @ year when his services were in great demand, he was prepared to come back to his old ‘school, and | would like to thank hm for this great kindness. | think he would have been proud to watch our XV who ended the season by winning match after match by impressive margins, and produced some of the best football | have seen in years. Perhaps more encouraging in some respects was the performance of the Under 14 and Under 18 teams who had magnificent ‘seasons. The U14 excelled themselves against Wrekin whom they defeated by more than 50 points. These age groups have gone on being highly successful ‘on the games field and this term in cricket have already reached the third round of the ESSO Cup. As you know during this summer term, and indeed last term, when the Hockey team had another successful run, we do not concentrate our activities on one particular sport. Rather our aim is to enable as many boys es possible to represent the school for in this way they can feel more pride in themselves and feel they are contributing to the community. It is, therefore, most encouraging to find us succeeding at all leusls in Cricket, Swimming, Athletics, Tennis, Golf and Sailing both in team results and individual per formances. | will not bore you with a long list of statistics, for they will be dealt with in detail in the school magazine. However, one other aspect of athleticism is worthy of mention, and that is the acquisition of alarge machine — the Ergo- Gym which has been given to us by a grateful parent. It provides not only training fecities forall the teams, But perhaps of equal importance, t enables the less athletic who want to do some effective exercise, to get maximum value for time in a most constructive way. If you have a look at it you will see that almost exactly similar to the equipment recently installed in the House of Commons, to enable those who legislate for usto keep their shape as well. As! said in my Parents Newsletter the machine-age has come to Ellesmere; not only hhave we machines for the body, but also for the mind. One of our Governors discovered for us an obsolescent Computor a Univac 92/100 for which we hope soon to obtain the necessary card-punching equipment, but do not be alarmed. | do not intend to let the Bursary near this to savage the accounts for in Jean Knibbs we have someone infinitely rore efficient and awe-inspiring than any computor. All the office staff, in fact, deserve a great thank you for the way in which, in the background they enable those of us who are at times less than perfectly organised to give of our best without disrupting the system. Indeed, all the non-teaching staff deserve a mention for they carry on their humdrum tasks making sure that we are all fed and clothed in an environment that remains clean, tidy, attractive and in good repair. if at times the boys, themselves, are not completely clean, tidy and attractive, itis certainly not the ‘fault of Mrs. Purcell — Ruby as she is almost universally known. Those of you who read the local press will already know thet at the end of April she retired ster more than 41 years continuous service, most of them in charge of the laundering and mending of the College. Cleanliness is next to Godliness, and, therefore, | move from the laundry to the Chapel, where the efficiency of Ruby's ladies is always seen but rarely Noticed in the laundering of many vestments and of the surplices for the choir. ‘These enhance the setting in which the Chaplain’s work helping to make our worship dignified and providing something of the mystery that young people look for and so often find lacking. There is no doubt in my mind that what we do in Chapel is the most important single thing that we do here. Its value will often not be fully realised for many years to come, but foundations are bieng laid, beliefs taught and shown in action that do not always result in habits of devotion for a life time but which will always provide a source of hope and strength to come back to when the realities of later life might otherwise bring them to despair. AA vital part of our Chapel is its musi be a vital part of the whole of College life. For the last 5 years it has grown from strength to strength under the enthusiastic single minded direction ot Anthony Dowien, Now in addtiion tothe annual musical work and Chapel choir there are ‘over 100 music pupils providing a wide range of entertainment from madrigals to informal concerts after prep. The catalogue is almost endless and the standard of these events is rising all the time. | shall always be grateful to Anthony for the way he has revolutionised our music, and set standards of variety and performance that have provided a significant civilsing influence in our community. ‘Another civilsing influence has been the study wing and library. The library in particular is always remarked on by visitors and for the past 5 years it has been cared for lovingly by Vernon and Betty Howard. Their patience and kindness with the untidy and the thoughtless have been exemplary. Vernon's Quiet wisdom and help for so many with problems in their Science will be greatly missed. Betty’s devotion to duty will be almost irreplaceable. What better example of this is there than that in her last term she has managed to ‘catalogue more than £1,000 worth of new books, bought by the various Departments, and a huge library bequest from the estate of an Old Ellesmerian, Rev. Michael Cooper. This was a magnificent gift for which we are very ¢grateful. But many a librarian in her last term would have leftits absorption to her successor. | am sure we shall continue to see Vernon end Betty here in College from time to time but would like to take this opportunity of thanking them for all their loyalty, kindness and hard work. | hope they now find time to relax and enjoy their home, their garden and their grandchildren. | began by saying that at Lancing | was greatly encouraged by the presence of the Prince of Wales, and the Primate of All England, and the Support that this implied. Of equal and more immediate importance to me is the support | have received over this past year from Common Room, whose loyalty and energy have been unstinting. To them all | say a big thank you, but to my Second Master, Martin Penney, in particular, for his ear has always been available, his administration has been meticulous, and withouthim | hould have sunk without trace, Thank you very much indeed,‘The most important support of all, of course, comes from the Preparatory ‘Schools and from you, the parents. Slowly, but surely more and more prep ‘schools are coming to recognise our qualities, not just for the less able, but also for the very clever. As a result we are full to bursting this year, and we shall be full to capacity again in September. Our top set will be the most able | can remember. Already almost all our places are filled, and | am in a dilemma, for this does not include any new overseas students. (This might surprise some for Tam told that rumour has been heard to say there are more than 160 Irar students at the College. Possibly a tonic for our soccer, but hardly conducive to their learning to express themselves adequately in English). Although it is not ‘good for any school to go beyond about 9% — our present fraction — of non- British pupils, their presence in that proportion is a vital ingredient of any ‘community that is teaching young people to live together in harmony and Understanding in the twentieth century. | find their presence in my Divinity classes invaluable, As 19 of our leavers come from overseas | want to integrate about 10 more at various levels. In some ways, therefore, it might be con- sidered a relief to me that only ten boys from Prestfelde are coming on to Ellesmere, but this is not so, for itjust does not make sense. If the symbolism of the Rose Winow means anything it must surely mean that schools within the Corporation work together. | am pleased to tell you that both Schools agree that this is so and here | would ask for your support as well. We are full because you recommend us to your friends. Your help in making known to Prestfelde parents when the opportunity arises just how good we are will be much ap- Preciated. If we can persuade more of them to make the journey to Ellesmer End judge us at first hand the problem will be solved. Perhaps we have taken them too much for granted and as busy men have been known to lose good \wives for this reason, so we must look to wooing back our own. T must also make sure | do not take my wife and those of Common Room for granted. All the flowers you see about the College have been arranged by them — an outward and visible sign of a deeper continuing concern ‘throughout the year for the community. This enables their husbands to give t it'so much of their time and energy and to them all not least my own, | say a big, thank you. hope that what | have told you this morning alongside your experience as parents over the past terms and years show you clearly what | know to be true. That we can be proud of our record but that we cannot afford to be com- placent. | would like to say to you all what | have recently said to the School Council: “Looking to the future we must continue to modernise and maintain a confident efficient public image. The Engineering Design Centre is particularly important, but | am very optimistic, for the Endowment is growing, and slowly but surely, we are establishing a reputation as a well run, happy community, ‘comprehensive from both a social and intellectual point of view, where young people can achieve their potential’’. Thank you for your support. Thank you for listening.FIRST FORM Jenks C. H. J. ‘Thompson D. Stanley C. SECOND FORM Copnall F. R. Micklewright R. J SHELL Baldwin J. C. S. Bowring C. P. Bradshaw S. J. Carter A. C. (Form Prize Umprovement) Umprovement) (Form Prize) (mprovement) (C.0.*) (Engiish*) (C.D.*) (French, Classical Studies, English) HEADMASTER’S PRIZES SMITH D.C. E. TUNNICLIFFE A. J.C. BONELL A.C. ‘SPECIAL PRIZES CREATIVE DESIGN: ‘Sweeney |. POTTERY: Midwood R. N. SHAKESPEARIAN SOCIETY: Duke J. Evans S. J. E. ‘THE LOVELL PRIZES FOR ENGLISH LITERATURE: “A level: Westrop S. A. O'le ge M. SMITH HISTORICAL ESSAY: Messenger P, M. COLIN RUSSELL PRIZE FOR Cochrane N.W. (History*) NATURAL HISTORY: Beavan J. J. ByasK.D.H. | (Chemistry, Geography, MUSIC: Vocal: Green N. JL. German, English, Mathematics, For Services to the Biology, History) Choir: Riding D. P. Hibbert S.E. (Latin, Physics) Howard J. M. Hodgkins J.C. (Creative Design) Instrumental: Senior: Allen'C. A. Long R. J. thistory*) ‘inter- mediate: Junior FOURTH FORM Bell. A. (Mathematics*) Bromfield J. (Technical Drawing) Copnall R. T. (Physics) Culley H. M. {Creative Design) Foo. K. (Mathematics, History*) Fox N.C. History) Hilton N. (Creative Design) Jagoe R. T. ‘Biology, English) Jones J. L.'T. (Chemistry) Lai. (English*) Long T. H. (art) Messenger M.C. (Latin, Classical Studies) Natalegawa R. M.M. History") ‘Osborne M. J. (Geography) Parker S. F. ‘History*) Parmar A. (French, German) ToF.S.L. (C.D., Technical Drawing*) Young A. ¥. (Biology) + IMPROVEMENT PRIZES FIFTH FORM CobboldT.R. (Geography, English) Done M. J. (Classical Studies) Hems S. A. ‘History*) Hill C. 1, (French) Hopkins R.C.M. (Divinity) KayeM.R.S. | (Art) Kolahi Aval J. (Chemistry) Midwood R: N. (Technical Drawing) Matthews P.W. (Creative Design) Parry K. |. (Mathematics*) Poorooshasb F. (German, Mathematics) Ryland A.P. — (Geography*) Sedghi S. (Chemistry) ShelleyR.A. — (History*/ WalwynP.H. (French) Williams J. M. (History, Physics, Biology) Wright AN. (History*) Young P. (Latin) LOWER SIXTH FORM Clark J. (Economics) ane i (Physics) lutton C. (Geogr DenisP.H.D. fang”! Evans §. JE (Ar) jones A. A. (Biolo KasemsantP. tay” Creme) Lame H. (Gorman lessenger P.M. (English, His Shrimpton G.D. —feeSmornta) Streeter-Smith T. Ward R. SIXTH FORM Allahverdi A. Duke J. Grech-Mintoff E. Hulstrom R. P. Kelsall J. M1 Reynolds W. M. H. Shan N. J. Sheppard R. C. Tohidian |. J. (Mathematics, Chemistry) (French) (Physics*, Chemistry*) (Geography) (Chemistry, Biology, Physics*) ‘Economies, Mathematics, Physics) (German) (French, History) (Divinity, English) ‘Ancient History) (Chemistry*, Physics*)10 LAMBART HOUSE House Master: J. M. Scorer, Esq. Tutors: N. R. Panting, Esq., B. W. Poll, Esq., J. M. Marshall, Esq., C. S. T. Cant, Esq. House Captair |. J. Phelps (Autumn Term), R. F. Smail House Prefects: R. E. Parker, D. R. Job, M. G. Jones, G. D. Shrimpton, S. E. H. Bull, R. P. Hulstrom, J. H. E Lees. ‘The House has prospered this year on several fronts in which it has not done well for many years. This began in the Michaelmas term with the winning of the House Singing Competition with fine soloists in Philip Leech, Christopher Green and Thomas Jagoe, and with the whole effort organised by Philip Leech, this success provided a great boost. The house also got a lick of paint in the Michaelmas Term, with many helpers, headed by R. P. Hulstrom, enthusiastically painting Howard Dayroom. Lambart’s Rugby Record ran dismally to for Term, the Senior Squash Cup was won for the third year running. Also for the first time, the House Bridge Competition was won by Lambart, showing that there are some brains aomong our ranks. Our best term on the sports field however, was the Summer Term, in which we won the Senior Cricket for only the third time in our history, and were led to victory by R. F. Smail, who also captained the school XI. For the record he was also captain of School Hockey. Once and for all we proved to be the best House in the swimming pool, winning the senior and junior competitions and coming second in the Colts. G. D. Shrimpton was captain of swimming. The senior tennis pair of M. R. Brammer and D. R. Job reached the final only to lose narrowly to Wakeman. ‘On a less competitive front, the House party went off very well, with each year group in the house putting on a short play in the Arts Centre. Pride of place in these went to the Vith form, with but in the Lent a livened-up version of Cinderella. Philip Denis was the impresario of the evening entertainment, which was admirably compered by Frankie Howerd (or was it Andrew Jones?). The food as usual was excellent and our thanks go to Mrs. Scorer and the Tutors’ wives. There have been several outings during the year, including two to the Skating Rink at Deeside Leisure Centre. We also took a bus load to the Ludlow Festival in July to see ‘Taming of the Shrew’’. Examination commitments prevented many from coming but those who went thoroughly enjoyed the performance despite the in- different weather. ‘We congratulate Jon Phelps on gaining a place at Oxford. Returning to school after a year’s break was a brave venture and we are glad it worked. To him and all the other leavers we wish every success. They are: S. E. H. Bull, D. M. Colcough, P. Beh- poor, E. D. Grech-Mintoff, D. R. Job, M. G. Jones, N. J. F. Jones, M.H. K. Lee, J. H. E. Lees, S. N. Lewis, A. H. Mohammadian, N. Nithiyananthan, R. W. F. Overal, R. E. Parker, M. S. Rogers, R. F. Smail, | Tohidian and Caryl Hilton. During the year House Colours were awarded to: R. F, Smail, R. €. Parker, D. R. Job, M. G, Jones, G. D. Shrimpton, S. E. H. Bull, E. D. Grech-Mintoff, J. H. E. Lees, R. P. Hulstrom, R. W. F. Overall, Caryl Hilton and J. M. Marshall, Esq. Junior House Colours were awarded to R. T. Jagoe and S. F. Parker. M.P.D..MEYNELL HOUSE Housemaster: J. C. Wolters Esq. Tutors: F. E. Sutterby Esq., R. A. Kingdon Esq., C. D. Foyston Esq., J. R. Clark Esq., Miss M. M. Kirk. House Captain and Captain of School: A. C. Bonell Prefect . C. Middleton, W. M. H. Reynolds, J. W. McClure, N. J. Fillery, T. J. M. Bishop, J. S. McPhail, R. A. Leonard Once again it has been an eventful year for the House and one which has seen further redevelopment. We have now embarked on the carpeting of the dormitories; the money raised for the carpet in Extension came from another highly successful Victorian Evening and the now annual Strawberries and Champagne Party. Equally successful was our usual Christmas Punch Party for parents and members of the House. Hopefully further ventures will raise more ready cash so that further modernisation can take place. In addition to these functions various other celebrations took place, with enjoyable parties of one sort or another taking place in each term. The Dining Club went Indian and Chinese; the culture vultures took in the theatres; the ambitious sped their shaky ways round the ice rink at Deeside; internal competitions for the new chess, billiards and table-tennis cups were played out. There was hardly a dull moment! Lest anyone think we spent our days in frivolous living, we didn’t — at least not all of them! On the academic front our congratulations must go to Christine Bowyer-Jones and Neville Shann on gaining Oxbridge places and to the many who were very successful indeed in the A and O level examinations. This only goes to prove that hard work and disciplined relaxation can mix happily! On the games field the House enjoyed a successful year for the most part. The injury-hit Senior Rugger team lost in extra time to a strong Talbot side, but the Juniors made up for it by defeating Wakeman in a close, splendidly fought final. Both the Hockey teams did well: N. J. Fillery led the Seniors to victory and G.Latham and his men won the Junior Competition. The Squash V lost in the final narrowly and C. J. W.Toms’ splendid organisation helped the Cross-Country to perform most creditably, the Juniors again winning their age group. The summer term saw the Senior Cricket team go out early, despite A C. Middleton's efforts, but the Juniors, under P. S. Young, picked up the Cup. The Senior Athletics team won their competition against expectation and we congratulate R. A. Leonard and A. Fahim-Dejban on being Victors in their groups. Tennis players and swimmers tried hard but without success. Musically the House responded very well to Neville Shann’s persistent promptings to turn us into first the Bach Choir and then the Amadeus. Our thanks to him. Finally | would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. JCW and CDF for all the time and effort they have put in and to welcome Mr. J. Clark, ‘our new Tutor. We are grateful for all he and our other Tutors have done. Senior House Colours were awarded to Mrs. JCW, A. C. Middleton, W. M. H. Reynolds, J. W. McClure, N. J. Fillery, T. J. M. Bishop, J. S. McPhail, R. A. Leonard, C. J. W. Toms and R. C. Sheeppard. Junior Colours went to D. P. Riding, M.D. C. Dawson, P. J. Young, J. M. Williams, C. E. Deakin and T. J. R. Petty. We say farewell and wish all luck to Christine Bowyer- Jones, A. C. Bonell, A. C. Middleton, W. M. H. Reynolds, J. W. McClure, J. S. McPhail, T. J. M. Bishop, N. J. Fillery, C. J. W. Toms, R. C. Sheppard, N. J. Shan, L. el-Muddaris, J. N. Rudd, R. G. Weston, S. A. Hems, M. D. C. Dawson, M. Darugar, A. M. Miller, P. D. Myles, A. N. Wright, A. Kelly, K. Mirblouk and S. Mortazavi. A.C. Bonell "12 TALBOT HOUSE Housemaster: H. R. Hill, Esq. Tutors: A. F. Thomson, Esq., W. C. Newbold, Esq., S. A. Elwell- Sutton, Esq., D. R. Bates, Esq., J. J. Morris, Esq. Capt of House: (Michaelmas) M. J. W. Napier. (Lent & Summer) M. J. Lessiter. School Prefects: |. R. G. Jinks, G. Owen, S. Wongsanguan, R. C. Wynne-Griffith. House Prefect P. N. Robinson, P. C. Whitehead, M. M. V. Taylor, A. P. Killen, M. J. Cook, C. B. Mansell, R. M. Everall, J.C, Douglas. There was a surprising start to the year with no less than six School Prefects in our midst, three returning to sit for Oxbridge and three seeking further quaiifications. They included five 1st XV Colours holders, and it was no surprise that we won the Senior Rugby, but only after an exciting final against Meynell which went into extra time. The Juniors succumbed early, but not without a fight. The departure of our experienced campaigners left a gap which could not easily be filled, and further athletic success eluded us for some time. Hockey and Cross Country passed without us making our mark, although the flu epidemic struck down some of our abler members. The Squash competitions showed some talent among our ranks and the Juniors did well to win the cup in spite of little practice. The Summer term, usually our best term, provided us with further successes, but some disappointments. In the swimming, the Seniors, thanks mainly to sterling performances by the Cap- tain, P. C. Whitehead came a close second to Lambart, but the Colts swept all before them and won convincingly. The Juniors were disappointing, and failed to provide a single finalist. Water Polo was won yet again — for the eighth consecutive year, and the team improved with every match. We shall have the whole team here next year and shall hope to continue our unbroken run. The Swimming Standards cup was also taken with all members of the House making a good effort. Cricket was strong, but unfortunately we lost both in the finals — the Seniors collapsed disastrously, scoring only 27 runs, and were beaten by Lambart, and the Juniors lost to Meynell by 23 runs. Athletics reached an all-time low and we finished last in all three competitions. This was mainly due to a lack of real athletes, although there were some good individual per- formances. The highlight of the year was once again the Christmas party, produced to the now traditional ‘Talbot’ standard. The loft was converted with flair and character by S. Wongsanguan and his helpers, and the standard of both food and entertainment was excellent. Other social highlights were the ice-skating trip, which no doubt become a regular feature, and a surprise ‘strawberry and cream’ feast one evening when the House was expecting something dreadful to happen! A successful Whist Drive was also run, in which the ‘better players’ failed to make their mark. There is plenty of scope for further activities, but a good beginning has been made. This record of events would be incomplete without mention of our two new Tutors Mr. Bates (and his Murraymints) soon became a part of the House, and we are sorry for the House, but glad for him that he is getting married in the summer, and we wish him and his future wife all happiness and hope that their partnership will add further to the House. Mr. Morris after a year of happy association with the House is moving on, and we thank him for all his hard work on our behalf and wish him well. Our thanks also go to all the Tutors and to H.R.H. for their constant efforts on our behalf. Senior Colours were awarded during the year to P, N. Robinson, M. J. Lessiter, P. C. Whitehead and M. M. V. Taylor. Junior Colours were awarded to A. J. Carter and C. H. Walwyn. This year we say goodbye to M. J. Lessiter, A. P. Killen, J. C. L. Douglas, M. L. Edleston, R. M. Everall, C. B. Mansell, M. M. V. Taylor, P. R. Done, D. W. L. Roberts, R. C. Millward-Hopkins, M. J. Whittaker and S. W. O. Lee and we wish them every success in the future. M. J. LessiterWAKEMAN HOUSE “Right Gentlema In fact things have gone “‘right’’ for the house this year. We have done exceptionally well (for Wakeman) on the sports field, winning the Senior and Junior Rugby Sevens, Senior Tennis, Colts and Junior Athletics and Shell and Fourth Standards in Athletics, the Senior and Colts Cross Country. We also performed well by reaching the finals of the Senior Hockey, Junior Squash, and Junior Rugby Fifteen aside. This success has also spread onto the music front, shown by our winning of the Instrumental Cup. After a while of being “‘in charge’’ you realise there is super efficiency, chaos and Wakeman efficiency. This is brought about by a very ‘natural’ feeling within the house. We did eventually have a fancy dress party which everyone enjoyed. | would like, though, to place on record my thanks to Dave Smith, who was Captain of the House for the Christmas term, Chris Henderson, Mark Kelsall, Dave Benson and all the others who have been in charge (including ‘Tarzan’), for their co-operation during this year. A special thank you also to Anthony Dowlen who is now leaving; he has always been willing to help with our music, while fulfilling his role of tutor admirably. Nature has come full circle; we wish the best for the future to everyone especially those leaving us who are, D. C. Smith*, K. J. Fox", C. A. Henderson’, M. J. Kelsall*, D. M. Benson*, K. Braithwaite, A. Allahverdi, P. Howells, C. Chater, C. Jenks, P. Cheng, R. N. M. Maclean-Eltham, J. R. Hunsley, H. Alun-Jones, A. R. |. Greenwood, R. M. B. G. Natalegawa, R. M. M. Natalegawa, H. Pourat, S. Sedghi, R. Vadera and G. Sweeney. K. J. Fox 134 WOODARD HOUSE Housemaster: K. J. Shuttleworth. Tutors: R. A. Brown, R. R. Jagoe, W. H. Barnett, P. J. N. Knowles, R. W. Allen. Captain of House: T. F. Ellis (Michaelmas), N. H. Rocholl (Lent and Summer). House Prefects: A. J. C. Tunnicliffe (School Prefect), M. R. Hayward, J. Duke, R. C. G. Brooke, S. P. O'Hara. At the beginning of the year, the House welcomed K. J. Shuttleworth as the newly appointed Housemaster, and we hope that under his guidance the House will prosper in the years to come. While the year has not been outstanding in terms of success in inter-house competitions — we finished 2nd many times — it is encouraging to note the involvement of Woodard boys in a wide variety of activities. We continue to provide an efficient stage crew, under the leadership of Richard Crane and Mark Harding- Rolls, for school productions in which many Woodard boys, especially juniors, have taken part this year. Other activities with a strong ‘violet’ involvement are the Natural History Society and the Sailing Club: here we are grateful to RRJ and WHB for their in- terest and enthusiasm. The Bridge Club and Choral Society have also become more popular among Woodard boys. As well as this, we have provided the captains of the School teams in golf (J. Duke), sailing (W. Ditcham) and shooting (R. C. G, Brooke). One of the aims this year has been that each boy should where possible achieve some distinction in one activity : many boys have already succeeded in thi 5 In the Michaelmas Term, Woodard won the House shooting cup under the captaincy of R. C. G. Brooke, and this made up for disappointments in other fields : both rugger sides lost in the first round, but thanks must go to T. F. Ellis and G. E. Humphreys for their unremitting encouragement. The House singing competition left Woodard in 2nd place, but N. J. Green ought to be singled out as the top soloist on the day, and the whole House congratulated ‘on winning the Unison section. During the course of the term, an indoor games evening was held with Talbot House, and this was greatly enjoyed : later, the annual House party was made memorable not only by a near disaster when over-enthusiasm in the tug of war resulted in a radiator being pulled away from the wall, but also by the presence of the tutors’ wives for the first time. For these events and the general running of the House, gratitude must be offered to the Top Seniors who have worked hard throughout the year. | The Lent term, although producing no cups, showed promise for the future: a very young hockey XI were just beaten by Talbot, both rugby sevens teams and the junior hockey six came second in their competitions, while the junior squash team lost narrowly to. the eventual cup winners. During this term, there was an outing to the ice rink at the Deeside Leisure Centre, and another indoor games evening towards the end of term. The highlight of the term, however, was @ soiree musicale, attended by parents, tutors and boys, in’ which members of the House displayed their various musical talents, and which was followed by a buffet supper. We hope it will be the first of many such occasions. The Summer term on the sports field was much more en- couraging, especially when our junior Tennis team won their competition, beating three other houses in the process. The House League cricket team, under the captaincy of R. F. Elkes, won that trophy, and both our senior and colts teams came 2nd in the Athletics, as did the juniors in the swimming. Activities this term included a trip to Theatre Clwyd to see ‘A Midsummer Night's Dream’. We also held a party at the end of term to mark the retirement of Mr Brown: the whole House wish him and his wife happiness and prosperity in the future. House Colours were awarded during the year as follows: Senior: N. H. Rocholl, A. J. C. Tunnicliffe, M. R. Hayward, R. C. G. Brooke, M. Chiarletti, J. Duke, S. P. O'Hara, K. J. S., M. A. C. Harding-Rolls. Junior: A. S. Foster, J. L. T. Jones, J. M. Howard, J. E. Barham, F. Centelles. Salvete: This year we have welcomed Messrs Sedaghat, Bradshaw, Cox, Ellis, Fuller, Green, Greenhalgh, Hockenhull, Johns, Martyn-Smith, Oakey, Tarrant, Khan, Matthews, Bradbury and Forrest as members of the House; we also welcome the return of Paul Dolan after a term's absence. Valete: Those leaving this year are T. F. Ellis, P. W. Matthews (Michaelmas), N. H. Rocholl, A. J. C. Tunnicliffe, M. R. Hayward, R. C. G. Brooke, S. P. O'Hara, M. Chiarletti, M. A. C. Harding- Rolls, K. Kashanian and H. W. Chung, to whom we wish every success in the future. J. DukeCHAPEL NOTES Holy Week and Easter at School This year Easter fell in term time and it provided an opportunity for everybody to observe and experience the symbolism and true meaning of Holy Week. For many it turned out to be very rich fuel for their spiritual needs. A series of well presented talks by Canon Alan Wilkinson served as a prologue to the week and mentally prepared people for the events to come. He explored the meaning and practice of Christian meditation and particularly how individuals could apply this method of prayer in their own way. After the procession and the palms of the Eucharist of Palm Sunday the week seems to pause while one waits for the inevitable to happen. Material to think about was provided. On Monday ‘’The Robe’ was shown which provided entertainment with a strong religious undercurrent. This was followed the next night by a meditation in words and music in chapel. The pattern was music, purposeful readings and silence. The former two provided a stimulus for our mental ideas about the week and the silence gave us time amply to exploit them. Wednesday saw a performance by the Choir of Stainer’s Crucifixion which, though amusing in places, did nevertheless have a significance in accelerating the tempo of the events of the week. And_so to the climax of man's redemption. The liturgy of Maundy Thursday was presented in plainsong which was for many another new experience. The ‘Watch of the Passion”, which followed, was well supported and lasted till midnight. ‘The Cross of Christ’, a devotion for Good Friday, further revealed. the meaning of Christ's tremendous self-sacrifice for men. Holy Saturday saw the Easter Vigil; the blessing of the new fire (which nearly got out of hand), the lighting of the great Paschal Candle, the reading of the prophecies, and the renewal of baptismal vows helped many to find new light in their old faith. Thus came Easter Day — ‘The Lord is risen indeed! Alleluial’’ The Sung Eucharist ended the physical events of the week, but for me, like for many, the memory of it and the thought of Christ's sacrifice burned on and is still with me today. M.R.T. 1516 CHOIR NOTES A good intake of trebles in September coupled with very few leavers at the end of last Summer Term helped to consolidate the previous year’s work with a smaller choir. Balance and coor- dination between the parts were much more precise and the sight- reading ability of the choir had greatly improved, enabling the repertoire to be expanded considerably. Although no new anthems were sung in the Autumn term, a visit to Chester Cathedral early in October enabled the choir to enlarge its repertoire of Evening Services, learning Brewer in D for the occasion, as well as the William Smith responses. The Carol Services again attracted large congregations of parents and friends and were especially memorable for some well disciplined singing from the choir, particularly on the Saturday evening. A highly popular new carol was John Rutter’s ‘Jesus Child’ where choir, organist and conductor revelled in the jazzy rhythms and luscious harmonies. Thomas Jagoe was the sensitive soloist in the haunt- vy attractive Willcocks’ arrangement of ‘The Lord at first did Adam make’, and Nicholas Green and Philip Leech provided a distinctive touch of professionalism to the solos in ‘In the bleak midwit er’. John Howard's developing tenor voice was heard to good advantage in ‘Quelle est cette odeur agreable’ and the ef- fective organ accompaniments of Roger Allen contributed much to ‘Ding-dong merrily on high’ and ‘The Sans day carol’. As is now traditional, the Madrigal Society sang from the Lady Chapel, this time ‘Gabriel’s message’ in a new arrangement by Sir David Willcocks. During the Lent term a total of eight anthems were sung, including a new piece by John Rutter, ‘Thy perfect love’. Nicholas Green's secure and confident voice was much in evidence in Wesley's ‘Blessed by the God and Father’, and also in Mendel- ssohn’s ‘Hear my prayer’ when he became the third treble in recent years to tackle the celebrated solo. For the frist time for about eight years the whole of Lent, Holy Week and Easter were spent at school, and this provided the choir with much extra work which they tackled with their accustomed enthusiasm. After Evensong had again been sung in Chester Cathedral, the choir worked hard towards the performance of Stainer's ‘Crucifixion’, a work not given at Ellesmere for about thirty years. Reginald Reece (tenor) Our singing teacher, and Eddie Bentley (bass), who had sung Noye in November, were the two principal soloists, supported by Philip Leech, Christopher Green and Charles Allen as ‘voices from the choir’. Roger Allen accompanied with his usual discretion and the choir clearly enjoyed the experience of tackling an eminently singable work. Thanks to an invitation from an eminent Cathedral Organist who had visited Ellesmere as an examiner for the Associated Board, the Summer term provided a new venue for Choral Evensong, this time in Worcester Cathedral, where we were faced with mounting a full-scale service less than a week after the beginning of term. Fortunately we were able to draw upon repertoire and gave Noble in B minor and Wood's ‘O thou the central orb’, both of which had been sung in Chester Cathedral on previous visits there during the year. The day out (on Bank Holiday Monday!) was certainly memorable for reasons other than musical or religious ones, for our coach broke down en route in Shrewsbury and we had very little time to rehearse in the unfamiliar surroundings. Nevertheless, the choir, completely undaunted, rose to the challenge and sang as if nothing had gone amiss. Other new music to be attempted in the Summer term included ‘We wait for thy loving kindness’ (McKie), ‘Not unto us’ (Walmisley) and ‘I sat down under his shadow’ (Bairstow). By popular request, Elgar’s Prologue to ‘The Apostles’, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me’, which had made such an impression a year ago, was revied for the Commemoration service, together with the Naylor Benedicite. The Brass Group was again in evidence, led this year by William Whitehead, who produced a highly competent trumpet descant in the second verse of ‘Ye Watchers’ — long may this splendid arrangement continue to resound round the walls of Ellesmere College Chapel!! As a reward for so much work this year, an outing was arranged to Wolverhampton where we heard an excellent per- formance of Johann Strauss’ famous operetta ‘Die Fledermaus’. This provided much light relief in the hurly burly of a busy Summer Term. The Headmaster and Mrs. Skipper again kindly entertained the choir to a barbeque — to them much thanks for all their support for what the choir does. Finally, | should like to add my thanks to all those who have contributed so much to the music in Ellesmere Chapel, particularly to David Riding and Nicholas Hammersley for their help with administration, and, as | depart for Radley, take many happy memories of five years in Shropshire. A.E,D.D.MESSIAH Handel’s Messiah needs little introduction, it must surely be the most popular oratorio ever written. It is among the repertoire of Choral Societies throughout the country and is performed many times in any one year. The performance given in Chapel by the Choral Societies of Ellesmere College and Moreton Hall ‘’Les femmes Prestfeldiennes’’ on 26th February went a long way to realising the spiritual and musical aspirations of Handel. The Chapel lends itself very well to a work of such magnitude and there was an enveloping atmosphere as the audience, chorus, orchestra, soloists and conductor congregated. The Overture formed a rather tentative preliminary, but the whole gathered momentum as the story of the Nativity was unfolded. The chorus was well controlled by Anthony Dowlen, the conductor, during the first part, and despite a couple of weak entries, they demonstrated a fine tone and clarity of words. The quartet of soloists: Delia Fletcher, Rachel Payne, Peter Bingham and Christopher Unddrwood, were competent: each giving their own interpretation of the airs and recitatives, with enhancing embellishments. The orchestra provided an excellent accompaniment throughout. The College are indeed fortunate in having such valuable resources from which to draw. The solo string quartet, led by Hamish Drummond, and supported by the Harpsichord con- tinuo, played with exceptional sensitivity, and it was particularly encouraging to see so many Ellesmerians in the orchestra. They came into their own with the Pastoral Symphony — a complete contrast to the previous rousing chorus: ‘’For unto us a child is born’’ — thus introducing a new tranquility. The second part of the evening's performance showed the chorus with a new confidence and the inestimable amount of work that had gone into rehearsals was justified as the splendid climax of the Hallelujah chorus was reached. The following air: "| know that my redeemer liveth’, was sung by Delia Fletcher with such a delicate and sincere reverence, that she conveyed a refreshing serenity, comparable to the earlier tranquility of the Pastoral Symphony. The final chorus made a triumphal ending to a performance only marred for us by the inexperienced members of the chorus who appeared to remain uninspired by the intense enthusiasm (and resulting gesticulations) of the conductor. 7The Voice of God Noye Mrs. Noye Sem Ham Jaffett Mrs. Sem Mrs. Ham Mrs. Jaffett The Raven ‘The Dove Mrs. Noye’s Gossips Property Men William Barber Timothy Bennett Alistair Boot Christopher Brown, Peter Bryan Peter Brymer Richard Crane John Davis ‘Andrew Dobson ‘Anthony Elston Stewart Evans Richard Eve Benjamin Fry Patrick Furse lan Garrard Robin Griffiths ‘Warwick Hawkins. 1olas Hollings David Hopkins Adrian Isaac ‘THE CAST Maurice Gray Eddie Bentley Kay Eburne Nicholas Green Howard Walwyn Timothy Streeter-Smith ‘Mark Messenger Alistair Campbell ‘Thomas Jagoe Richard Lanyon William Barber Rosalie Clay, Jocelyn Clay, Caroline Girffths, David Riding Andrew Fletcher, James Barham, ‘Simon Prichard, Christopher Deal CHORUS OF ANIMALS Peter Jameson Timothy Jobber Robert Kelsall Richard Lanyon Stephen Lees Charles LeQuesne Richard Lewis Thomas McPhail Marcus Maisey Christopher Newbold Nigel Park Sebastian David Pursiow Hugh Smith Roderick Twist Michael Valentine Guy Vickers Mario Vottalino ‘Andrew Wade ‘Anthony Webb Mark Wormald ips NOVE'S FLUDDE 26th and 27th November | have always considered Noye's Fludde to be a logical development from the cantata St. Nicolas which Benjamin Britten wrote forthe centenary of the Woodard Schools in 1948, in that both were written for performance by young people and more importantly, both involve the audience by the inclusion ‘Congregational hymns. But whereas St. Nicolas is @ cantata, sung by a choir (holding their copies in front of their noses), Noye’s Fludde is an opera (words ‘and music must be leamed by heart); St, Nicolas has one soloist, Nove’ Fludde has eight, only two of whom are adults, ‘accomplished singer-actors’ as Briten describes them; St. Nicolas demands @ mainly professional or- chestra, Noye’s Fludde a mainly amateur one; (the programme notes might have emphasised this); moreover, this is the only stage production | know in Which the property men are not invisible back-room boys but a visible part of the show, bringing on the ark in sections, manipulating the waves, and carrying the sun and moon and stars in procession. Noye's Fludde is, therefore, an excellent choice for our schools, as not conly does it require the co-operation of the preparatory school but also involves people in designing and making the ark, the costumes, the maks for the fnimals and the waves, and lighting experts for the rainbow and other visual effects in addition to the training of the orchestra and singers. have now seen this work performed at Lancing (twice), at Denstone, ‘and, in rehearsal, t Ranby and by any standards the Ellesmere production was @ triumphant success. | attended both performances at the College, the second I followed closely from the score. | suppose there were some mistakes, if s0, | didn’t spot them. Both performances had a spontaneity and — if one dares use the word — a gaiety that are essential in a work of this kind. ‘With a cast of such uniform excellence it is tempting to mention them all by name, but | think | must single out the Chaplain for proclaiming the Voice of God with such authority and — even more important — audibilty, Richard Lanyon and Wiliam Barber for dancing The Raven and The Dove with com- plete dedication and lack of self-consciousness, and, above all, Anthony Dowien for a splendid production and Roger Allen for holding the whole show ‘together with such mastery and apparent ease, repeat performance before too long! W. R. Derry 19SOIREE MUSICALE FOR CELLISTS ‘Thursday 13th October The series of Soirees continued with the Cellsts on Thursday, the 13th October, in the Arts Centre. Although very few pupils took part, they were all of fairy high standard, The programme opened with Charles Allen and Phil Bellamy playing two movements from the Sonata for Two Cellos by Dotzauer Later in the programme they played three movements from the Sonata for Two Cellos by Romberg. They played well together in. both pieces, but the Andantino of the Romberg was especially pleasing, with good tonal quality and control of bowing. Nick Hammersley then played an Aria from The Lyric Suite by Lloyd Webber, which was a very pleasant piece. Two members of the staff, ‘Anne and Richard Taylor, Anne of course teaches the Cello, played a Bach Minuet. Richard commented that he was not making a come-back, as he found it took longer to tune the Cello than play it! Peter Messenger played @ very interesting work, Orientale by Cui with exceptional feeling, and great musical ability, as one would expect from this young man. The final item was the ‘Adagio from Duet Sonata by Wiliam de Fesch, played by Henrietta Wale and Charles Allen, ably played and improving towards the end. RM.C. Lunch time concert given by the String Orchestra ‘Thursday 8th December ‘A small but appreciative audience was present to hear the String Orchestra, conducted by Malcolm Henderson, give a short concert in the congenial’ surroundings of the Arts Centre Studio. Thros movoments from Handel's Suite for the Royal Fireworks began the concert, and the orchestra's firm attack and incisive style were evident from the start. In the Minuet, a quartet consiting of James Drummond and John Howard (violins), PI Leech (viola) and Philip Bellamy (cello) played stylishly in cvontrast to the full band. ‘There then followed two violin solos — Andrew Carter, coping remarkabl well with a tricky bit of Corelli, and Mark Messenger hauntingly atmospheric it a Noctume by David Stone. To conclude, the String Orchestra gave a spirited rendering of ‘Eye Level’, the catchy tune from the Television series ‘Van der Valk’ and this lively per- formance brought the concert ot an end. A.E.D.D. ‘THE CHOIR OF ST. MICHAEL'S, TENBURY, THURSDAY 2nd MARCH 1978 Roger Judd introduced each of the five sections that he and his choir performed in a programme of choral and organ music in the Chapel. The choir Of sixteen boys and eight men was a delight to listen to, and it was a pity that the audience was so small. The underneath parts were not always able to match the tonal clarity, tuning, and quality of the trebles — particualry in Stanford's ‘“Beati Quorum” and Byrd's ‘Civitas Sancti tui” — and the balance was obviously top heavy when the men were divided. The boys were superb throughout the programme, although some parts of Britten's Missa Brevis were Perhaps too demanding late at night when concentration was beginning to waver. The ennunciation and dynamics in Gibbon’s “0 Clap your hands together’ was of a very high standard, the ‘’Sing Praises"’ section being most effective. Bruckner’s ‘Christus Factus Est’’ was a thrilling and moving conclusion to the section of unaccompanied motets sung from the Chancel; this motet, with its range of harmony and dynamics, was certainly a highlight of the performance. The two organ works played by Mr. Judd may not have found the instrument or the organist at their best. Elgar’s G. Major Organ Sonata (first movement) was not suited to this type of organ, which favours ‘and Bach's exciting D Major Prelude and Fugue seemed to present ‘tempo problems. ‘The eveing was remarkable for the finesse of the choral singing. Greene's “Lord, let me know my end” was sung with great sensitivity. All through the programme, the greatest impression was made by the trebles — they blended, there was no hint of any strain, they were versatile, natural in tone, full of ‘musicianship, relaxed yet very accurate; they so obviously lived and loved their ‘music, and were able to convey this dedication and joy. RLF. and A.ET. ‘SOIREE MUSICALE FOR VIOLINISTS Sth March 1978 The soiree musicale was as entertaining for the performers as for the audience. Many of the former were enduring for the first time the nerva- ‘wracking experience of playing in public. An important lesson was there to be learned: to control your trembling bow, press harder! The intonation in the early pieces reflected the nervousness of the performers. Nevertheless, Mark Brown and Richard Baty produced good, confident sounds to get the evening off to a good start, as did Adam McLean subsequently. Nicholas Green displayed vary fuent bowing in Schubert's "Rosamunds” piece al the rors difficut to bring off, as its 80 well known. Both Philip Leech and Mark Beach produced a pleasant, mellow viola tone. It isa pity they did not choose longerpieces. The rendering of the largo from the “‘New World Symphony’” by the Youngest players’ violin quintet gave a discerning demonstration of how dif- ficult even simple harmony can be to match with a tune. Tann Hian Long also chose Dvorak — the “"Humoresque”” — as his offering, and while his sedate tempo missed the music’s lit, the centre section was very stylishly played. The ‘opportunity to settle down ‘that a longer piece affords the performer, was, ‘exemplified by Mark Talbot's playing of “Nocturne’’. Awkward intonation was efficiently corrected as the performance progressed to a very expressive close. ‘Andrew Carter gave a very spirited rendering of Handel's A major sonata throwing off the awkward triple stopping with grest panache. The main work of the evening was Telemiann’s concerto in D for four violins, played by James Drummond, Andrew Carter, Mark Messenger and Tann Hian Long. Although the tone in ‘the slow movements was slightly thin, dynamic control was good. ‘The performers gave of their best in the faster movements, and in the second, ‘8 compelling sense of rhythm was developed. Grateful thanks are due to the ‘accompanists and above all Mr. Henderson who masterminded the entire evening. JJM. ‘THE CRUCIFIXION, by John Stainer ‘As part of the devotions for Holy Week, the Colege choir performed John Stainer’s, “The Crucifixion’ on Wednesday March 22nd. Composed in 1887, it ‘combines biblical passages with devotional comment in the form of metrical hymns, written by J. Sparrow-Simpson. ‘The Crucifixion’ is a meditation on the Passion and Crucifixion of Christ. It requires thoughtful, sensitive singing by the small choir and two soloists for which it is scored. Without careful dynamic variation by choir and conductor it can become over sentimental: but ‘that pitfall was efficientlyovercome. ‘The choir were probably at their best in the unaccompanied chorus ‘God ‘0 loved the world’. Here the singing of the trebles was impressive, combining with the other parts to give a sensitive statement of the love of God in Christ. We were fortunate to have two excellent soloists in Reginald Reece and Eddi Bentley. The former's striking tenor tone reverberated through the chapel, capturing the paradox of the humiliation of Jesus leading to glory in “’The Majesty of the Divine Humiliation”. His ringing “Thos art the King’ was a high- Point of the evening, Ellesmere’s own soloists, Charles Allen, Philip Leech and Christopher Green also made valuable contributions. The latter two helped to create a dramatic scene of the interchange between the robbers and Jesus on the cross. The meditation moved on to the inexorable climax in an impressive fashion, the full rounded tones of Mr. Allen on the organ creating a stark Scene, for the pleading tones of the choir in ‘The Appeal of the Crucified’ There was genuine stillness in the Chapel as the last words of Christ were uttered. Then the triumph of ‘For the love of Jeus’. Overall it was a valuable Contribution and thanks should be given to Mr. Dowien for his obvious efforts. J LENT TERM CONCERT On the evening of 28th March in Big School, the two orchestras, madrigal society and soloists provided an interesting and enjoyable kaleidoscope of the College’s music. There was evidence of good preparation of all the items, producing on the whole, a high standard. ‘The programme opened in fine style with a Sonata in F for piano duet by J.C. Bach, played by Peter Messenger & Charles Allen. The second piano item ‘was the Fantiastic Dance of Shostakovich delightfully played by Roger Muttit. We had some good singing in the Bold Gendarmes by Stephen Evans & Christopher Green, and in the Barber Shop Quintet the close harmonies were very well managed most of the time. Timothy Streeter-Smith gave a commendable performance of two ‘movernents of a Sonata in Eb by Bach, especially in the slow movement. Telemann’s concerto for four violins provided an excellent vehicle for the four violinists, James Drummond, Andrew Carter, Tana Hian Long and Mark Messenger. They manged to produce some sensitive sounds and well con- trolled dynamics. During the second half of the programme, the three larger groups, the Madrigal Society, the String Orchestra and the College Orchestra took part. ‘The Madrigal Society chose to sing some quite taxing David Willcocks arrangements of three well known folk songs, and for the most part pulled them off successfully. ‘The String orchestra's Folk Tune and Fiddle Dance didn’t quite capture the mood of the piece but it was encouraging to see so many young players Participating. ‘The concert ended with the College orchestra playing the overture to the Pirates of Penzance and the Radetcky March. These were played with con- Viction, and in the Sullivan there was some distinguished playing in the brass section. The Strauss piece was a fitting end to a most enjoyable concert. J. R. Drummond ‘SOIREE MUSICALE FOR PIANISTS—Thursday 11th May ‘we shall be listening to some young and in particular Tann their assurance at the keyboard and developing musicianship; indeed for me, Long's Greig was the highlight of the programme. For “curiosity” value, however, the prize of the evening must go to Peter Messenger’s Schoenberg piece —"the experts (who may be presumed to know?) tell me that it was ‘meant to sound like that! piano playing. Most of the performers were mn Long and Kevin Dyas caught ear and eye by MW.H.G. 21SPEECH DAY CONCERT—June 9th 1978 A large and appreciative audience heard the String Orchestra begin the concert with Bartok’s Rumanian Folk Dances, delightfully and sensitively played under Malcolm Henderson’s baton.” James Drummond, Mark Messenger, and Andrew Carter are particularly to be congratulated on some excellent solo work. Wagner's ‘Traume’ which followed was outstanding for the solo clarinet played by Thomas Jagoe. The school orchestra conducted by Roger Allen concluded the first haif of the programme with the ever popular “Thunder and Lightning Polka’ by Johann Strauss, and a daring choice, Tehaikovsky's ‘1812 Overture’. Not an easy task to perform something 80 familar, but the orchestra gave a good account of itself. ‘Afier the interval we enjoyed ‘Three Hungarian Folk Songs’ by Matyas Seiber, beautifully sung by the Madrigal Society under Anthony Dowien’s direction. The second “Apple, Apple’ was a joy to hear in its balance and harmony. The selections from Edward German's ‘Merrie England’ sung by the Choral Society, completed the programme and gave much pleasure to audience and singers alike. This work, which perhaps today is despised by some, has stil much to offer and delight us. The singing of the duets “Come to Arcadie’ and ‘It is the mertie month of May’ were of special not Congratulations to Joyce Rogers and Stephen Evans, and Kay Ebume and Philip Leech. The audience pressed in vain for an encore! ‘To many of us who have witnessed the growth in the musical life of the College in recent years the evening had a sad note, because it was Anthony Dowien’s last concert. We thank him for his enthusiasm and hard work which has so enriched and expanded the musical life of the College and wish him well in his new post at Radley. JIMA. Concert at St. Michael's Tenbury—Sunday June 18th Musicians from Ellesmere visited St. Michael's College, Tenbury on June ‘18th. They came first to Evensong where, after listening to the St. Michael's choir, they joined lustily in the closing hymn to show what they themselves ‘could do. Afterwards in the Music School they proved it in an entertaining Concert devised to illustrate music-making at Ellesmere. Christopher Green sang Schumann pleasantly, Malcolm Entecott blew gentle Mozart into his horn and William Whitehead showed himself to be a trumpeter with a good clean tone. Kevin Dyas proved by his playing of a ‘Schubert Impromptu that pianists are in good hands at Ellesmere, though the ‘opening section needed perhaps a lighter touch with the left hand. Group singing was well represented by the ‘Allegros’ who gave us three mellifluous songs from the Yale Song Book and by the Madrigal Society whose Three Hungarian Folk Songs by Matyas Selber were excellently sung. These are not easy pleces but the parts were secure and there was a nice Yeoing for the wor 2 ‘The weak link in School music is so often the string playing. We were offered early on.a Concerto for four violins by Telemann played by James Drummond, Andrew Carter, Mark Messenger and Tann Hian Long, which dispelled our fears and persuaded us to put our ear plugs back in our pockets. Both intonation and ensemble were more than acceptable. Later the String Orchestra played Seven Rumanian Folk Dances by Bela Bartok in a way which genuinely captured the spirit of the pieces. The strings were then joined by the rest of the Orchestra in a well controlled performance of ‘Traume’ by Wagner, with Thomas Jagoe as the clerinet soloist. Energetic performances of Johann Strauss’ Radetzky March and Thunder and Lightning Polka brought the eveing to an end. We shall long remember the enthusiasm of the performers and the beatific expression on the face of the double-bass player in particular. Rev. G. A. H. Atkins.Soiree Musicale for Wind Instruments “An ill wind that nobody blows good!” — the layman's idea of a wind instrument | imagine, and learning once myself | am very much inclined to agree at times! However, although this soiree had its ups and downs with ‘squeaks’ and shortage of breath due to nerves, it was a most varied and entertaining programme, running the gamut from Mozart to memories of Glen Miller. The opening item was “'Three pieces for wind quartet” by Willy Schneider played by Andrew Hudson flute), Adam McLean and Mark Whittaker (clarinets) and David Griffiths (bassoon). This showed some precise and tuneful playing. Alastair Pyke (oboe) then played two pieces, a Minuet by Purcell and a Polish Folk Song by Alan Richardson. After an uncertain start he gained confidence in the second piece and played well. Richard Brooke then regaled us with the Theme from ‘Love Story’ on his saxophone, after which we had a complete change of mood in Mozart's lush an lovely adagio from his Clarinet Concerto, played with sensitivity and superb tone by Paul Whitehead. Dick Neal then really set our feet tapping with two pieces on his saxophone “In the Mood’ and “‘Chattannoga Choo-Choo", played with tremendous rhythm and panache. The evening finished with “Homage to Beatrix Potter”, six attractive pieces each one portraying one or more of the animals in Potter's stories. They were well handled by Wiliam Ditcham (flute), Caroline Griffiths (oboe), Paul Whitehead and Thomas Jagoe (clarinets), Malcolm Entecott (horn) ‘and David Griffiths (bassoon), and it was obvious that they enjoyed playing the suite. Congratulations and thanks go to Elizabeth Dibben, who teaches these young people, for arranging such an enjoyable evening. KEE. 29th June 1978 LUNCHTIME CONCERT 13th July 1978 Mussorgsky’s ‘Melodie’ filed the role of a ‘warm-up’ piece to the Beethoven Rondo. The frst few bars of piano introduction were followed by. slightly flat violin entrance. However, the piano somewhat disappointingly, did not diminuendo and a fight began to see who could make the most noise. The cello, however, dectined to enter the battle, and faded into obscurity, but | felt that ‘the violin part could have been played with greater feeling with more vibrato. The same criticism could not be levelled at the cellist, Peter Messenger, whose vibrato stil manages to run away with him! The pianist, Miss Henrietta Wale played extremely well, with great feeling. ‘Then came the Beethoven Rondo. Again, the piano seemed to be the ‘glue’ that stuck the whole piece together and on occasions the ‘cello seemed 10 be in competition with the violin. A great amount of contrast of texture was achieved in the recital by the varying of the dynamics. ‘All in all, the recital came over quite well, but for the three performers it can not have been pleasing to play to such a small audience, as was present. It is a pity that more people could not turn-up to see and hear the splendid efforts of Henrietta Wale (piano), Mark Messenger (violin) and Peter Messenger (cello) and of Mr. Malcolm Henderson for his excellent coaching to whom our thanks must also go. P. Bellamy ASSORTED SOIREE MUSICALES ‘That new phenomenon on the Ellesmerian musical scene, the Soiree Musicale, has had another good year. Reports on most of them can be found elsewhere in these columns, but your correspondent wishes to commment on two that escaped the usual team of critics. On Thursday, 2nd February, fourteen pianists took the stage providing us with an enjoyable recital of music from every period. Of the more advanced technicians, ‘both Mark Messenger and Nicholas Green gave competent performances of pieces by Back and Haydn respectively, while promising Newcomers included Rosslyn Jobber with Sonatine (Kabalevsky) and Mark Brown with Ecossaise (Beethoven). Among the other performers were Messrs. Reiff, Baty, Petty, Hudson T, Humpidge, Messenger P, Brown L, and Miss Caroline Griffiths. The concert ended with a staunch performance of a Weber March for piano duet played by David Riding and Andrew Carter. ‘At the end of May, we heard eight brass players. Christopher Sykes (trombone) gave a stiring performance of ‘Gaudeamus igitur’ and Beethoven's ‘Creation’s Hymn’, as did David Riding, also @ trombonist, with the Theme from the last movement of Beethoven's Choral Symphony. Farrokh Poorooshasb’s firm horn tone was heard to good advantage in Gagliardo by Frescobaldi, while promising debuts were made by Mark Riding (Trumpet) and Charles Burton (Tombone). Robert Shelley gave a spirited account of Caisson ‘Song by Gruber, and Frederic Centelles kept us all amused with his per- formance of ‘All’ through the night’. It was left to Kevin Dyas to close the ings in a suitably professional way with a sensitive performance of 3 Song’ by Greig. Alin all, two good eveings of music making, certainly occasions which enabled many less experienced but no less dedicated musicians to take the stage in less formal suroundings with a small sympathetic audience to support them. AED. 23HOUSE MUSIC COMPETITIONS ;nnual Inter-House Singing Competition occupied its now traditional position on the evening before the start of half term in the Autumn Term. On this occssion, the adjudicator was the colourful Mr. Neil Page, Director of Music at Malvern College, an ideal person to officiate at such an event, for in addition to being an outstanding choir trainer, Mr. Page has also achieved some measure of success as a professional solo singer. Certainly the fifteen solos provided a wide variety of music, and, far from being a competitive occasion, was an enjoyable one for purely musical reasons. Two things contributed to the success of the venture, the fact that every soloist had taken the trouble to learn his song by heart, and that all who took part benefitted greatly from the large and appreciative audience who turned up in support, Among the outstanding performances were the two star trebles of the Chapei Choir; Nicholas Green, whose performance of the lovely ‘Mary of Allendale’ will long be remembered, and Thomas Jagoe’s secure and confident rendering of ‘Under the ‘Greenwood Tres’ by Ame. Other performances of repute included Christopher Green with ‘When a maiden takes your fancy’ from ‘Il Seraglio’ by Mozart, and a theatrical performance of “The Tinker’s ‘Song’ (Dibdin) from Howard Walwyn, complete with ‘actions’. John Howard also attracted attention for his sensitive and musical rendering of Quilter's ‘Now Sleeps the Crimson Petal’, and Mark Messenger with Britten’s ‘The Ploughboy’, Philip Leech with ‘Amari mia bella’ (Caccini) and Tim Petty with “Boatmen dance’ were not far be ‘After supper, a full house in Big School was on hand to hear the part songs and unison songs. In the part songs, Talbot's performance of Gordon Lawson's arrangement of ‘Li'l Liza Jane’ just beat Woodard’s ‘The lass of Richmond Hill’, despite some hot competition from Lambart with “Come, sleep’ (Wood), ‘and a strange song about an exploding egg from Wakeman called ‘Not yet, but soon’. Meynell’s “The Ash Grove’ was not far behind. For the unison songs, the competition was fiercer than ever, especially as all marks gained 50 far were being kept a secret unti all the music was over. There were many colourful, and well rehearsed performances to listen to, especially that from Woodard with the ever popular ‘Hippopotamus Song’. This performance just best Meynell’s rendering of ‘Consider Yourself’ from ‘Oliver’, and Lam- bart’s rumbustuous performance of the Tommy Steele song ‘Flash, Bang Wallop’, complete with percussion effects. Wakeman with ‘Boot, horse — and away’ by Dyson, and Talbot, slightly less successful in unison ‘than in harmony with Finzi’s‘Rollicum Rorumn’. ‘Atter Mr. Page's hilarious yet perceptive adjudication, all the marks were added up, and the cup presented to Philip Leech of Lambart, this year’s winners. ‘The Instrumental competition took place in the Summer Term and ws adjudicated by John Davenport, Director of Music at Worksop College. In the solos, the highest marks were awarded to Timothy Streeter-Smith for a most musical account of two movements from a for the first movenent from Schubert's D m Drummond for the first movement from Bach's A minor violin concerto. Other enjoyable and convincing performances were given by Dick Neal with an energetic saxophone solo ‘Rock around the clock’, Jeremy Douglas with a Vigorous account of a Bach Prelude and Fugue for organ, Andrew Carter from some Handel played on the violin, and Malcolm Entecott for a strange yet atmospheric tribute to the late Dennis Brain entitled ‘Elegie’ by Poulenc. In the 24 ensembles, all the performances reflected the amount ot work which had gone into the preparation of the music. The most polished performance of all was given by Wakeman with a Dvorak Bagatelle for two violins, cello and piano, ‘although Talbot's performance of two American Folk songs for Brass Quartet ‘and Meyneli’s Mozart Divertimento ran them close. Woodard and Lambart ‘were not far behind. ‘After Mr. Davenport's adjudication, the cup was presented to Charles Allen the leader of the Wakeman contingent. AED.D. ASSOCIATED BOARD EXAMINATION RESULTS Richard Baty Grade it Mark Beach Grade it Laurence Brown Grade V Mark Brown, Grade! Jeremy Douglas Grade VI James Drummond Grade IV Kevin Dyas Grade V Piano and theory Stephen Evans Grade iv Singing Andrew Fawcett Grave V Piano Caroline Griffiths Grade |v ‘Oboe ‘Thomas Jagoe Grade VI Clarinet Philip Leech Grade Il Grade VI ‘Adam McLean Grade II Mark Messenger Grade IV Grade VI Peter Messenger Grave VI Roger Muttitt Grade Il Grave V Grade It 9 Grade it Mark Riding Grade It Christopher Sykes. Grade It Paul Whitehead Grave V Grade VI Mark Whittaker Grade ill + paid Higa Junior Division Piano Duet with Merit ‘** with distinction“THARK’ cast Roger Allen Felicity Bamett Ralph Bates Rosalie Clay John Clark June Jagoe ‘Anthony Dowlen Heather Pol Bill Newbold Paul Privett ““Farce’’, wrote the ever popular Chesterton, “creates people who are so intellectually simple as to hide in packing cases or pretend to be their own aunts”. While Ben Travers’ Thark produces no packing cases and only one aunt — playing herself — it is certainly full of the intellectually simple and, presumably, this was why the cast preferred to remain anonymous; not that it was that simple for them to hide their identities, though some had to become geriatric and others sought to arrest and even reverse the wrinkling and spreading processes. It is a tribute to their success that we were able to forget who we thought they were so easily. As a play Thark has a better first Act than some but a worse ending than almost any. It creates some highly amusing situations but produces few memorable lines; therefore, much depends on the ability of the actors to keep it going at a cracking pace and the appreciation of minor quips on the part of the audience was a sure indication that this goal was being achieved. At no time was the pace better maintained than when Sir Hector Benbow (Roger Allen) and Ronald Gamble (John Clark) were on stage, as they were for large parts of the evening. They were determined to extract every laugh from every scene and then some! In a play with a considerable number of comparatively minor parts it was difficult for such characters to develop much identity, but there were some excellent cameos — especially from Lady Benbow (Felicity Bar- nett), Mrs. Frush (June Jagoe), Jones (Paul Privett) and Whittle (Ralph Bates). The rest played to the standards we have come to expect from the Common Room Players, some fine casting gave them every opportunity to play themselves. One noteworthy feature of this production was the teamwork displayed and nobody tried to get away with anyone else’s lines. It was a splendid evening's entertainment and our grateful thanks are due to all those concerned both seen and unseen. Tribute in particular must be paid to PBP for all his hard work in directing such a motley crew into a cast which gave so many in- dications of knowing what they were doing. J.C.THE WINTER'S TALE CAST Leontes, King of Sicilia ‘Andrew Middleton Mamiliis, young Prince of Sicilia. Howard Walwyn Camilo, @ Lord of Sicilia James Duke Antigonus, a Lord of Sic Ever Grech-Mintoff Cleomones, a Sicilian Nobleman Michael Taylor A Lord of Sicilia Mark Hayward ‘Sicilian Servant Michael Done Polixenes, King of Bohemia Tim Elis Florizel, Prince of Bohemia Marcus Dawson Archidamus, a Lord of Bohemia Michael Ne Old Shepherd, reputed father of Perdita Roger Davies Clown, his son Stephen Evans Autolycus, arogue ‘Adrian James ‘Bohemian Servant Peter Done ‘mariner Farrokh Poorooshasb ‘A gaoler Nick Rocholl Hermione, Queen to Leontes Caryl Hilton ila, a lady attendant Rosalie Ward 2 Ladies in We Jocelyn Clay x See eran Heneetie The outstanding performance of Christine Bowyer-Jones as eaten oid " oa Paulina in particularly — a character which tends to hold the whole Heer ei pag Seine Garrine drama together — showed that this step was worthwhile. Caroline Dorcas, @ shepherdess Henrietta Wale Griffiths as Perdita gave further evidence for this, as she and Marcus Dawson (Florizel) portrayed well the somewhat difficult Wee Gregory Jones ‘Arcadian carefree attitude of the country scenes. Feet oancers Richard Attwood, Philip Bennett, ‘Andrew Middleton, after a difficult first evening mastered the Ivan Grech, David Holt, Andrew Hudson, complex role of Leontes most convincingly. In particular, he Timothy Hudson, Alastair Pyk captured the contrast between the somewhat blistering confidence Charles Short, Mark Riding, lan Sweeney. of the opening figure with the dejected penitent of the second Producer. P. B. Privett Esq. section. roaucer 2 ‘Comedy was ably provided by Adrian James as the roguish Autolycus and Stephen Evans as the Clown — an excellent contrast to the morbid introspection and near-mysticism of much | of the rest of the drama. The school play this year, The Winter's Tale, was notable not All round, it was amost enjoyable performance, especially on only for its high quality both of individual and general acting, but the third evening. Much credit is due to the producer, Mr. Privett, also for the speed with which it was produced. Not an easy play to who even stepped in to replace the injured Richard Wynne-Griffith perform at school level, it was chosen at relatively short notice. as Time, Mr, Panting’s skilful lighting effects made much of the This was due to the sixth form girls’ unparallelled enthusiasm to many difficult paradoxes of the play more apposite. take part, which meant that the intended play, Rattigan’s Ross, had to be eschewed in favour of one with more female roles. Neville ShanJUNIOR SCHOOL PLAY In choosing the ‘Chester Mystery Plays’ to be this years Junior School Production, it only too clearly highlighted the necessary qualities needed for a successful representation. It is preferable that it should give the opportunity of going on stage to a large number of boys who might never do a similar thing again as well as, giving the other more competent actors a chance to demonstrate their abilities. In so far as this was concerned the selection was perfectly adequate but the play was long with a large part of it written in rhyming-verse which almost inevitably caused problems over lines and cues. Therefore, it caused major gaps in the continuity. Nevertheless, some scenes are still memorable in their own right, and in particular the insertion of the Wakefield Second Shepherds Play proved to be most successful. Nick Fox most deserves to be congratulated for his exceptionally spirited per- formance as one of the shepherds, and Timothy Petty and Chris, Deakin should be mentioned for backing him up so well. Guy Davies and Robert Done were both sufficiently evil to be con- vincing as Herod and Satan respectively, in their scenes, and Alison Batho as Gabriel brought out the full power and glory at- tributed to that part with clear diction and absolute precision. To play the very taxing role of Jesus himself Mr. Newbold gave us Jeremy Smith who, despite putting up a valiant per- formance was a little lacking in feeling and emotion and one felt that he should have put more expression into both his words and his actions. However, in the climax of the play when he was being crucified the audience caught the atmosphere much more and t was due to a very moving performance by both him and the rest of the cast. Special thanks must of course go to Mrs. Skipper for organising the wardrobe which was the best I have ever seen on the Ellesmere stage and also Mrs. Barnett who, despite having some very irritating helpers, managed the make-up department very professionally. Mention should also be made of the other people who worked behind stage, all of whom helped to make the evenings as enjoyable as they were. James Duke CAST Jesus Jeremy Smith Mary ikate Evans Herod Guy Davies Shepherd and Second Jew Nick Fox First Soldier Lawrence Jones Gabriel Alison Batho Joseph and James ‘Thomas Jagoe First Midwife and Mary Magdalene Fiona Miller First Woman and Martha Karen Miler Satan Robert Done Gill and Mary Jacobi Caitlin Hawkins Second Woman and Mary Salome Jayne Pritchard Lazarus and Pontius Pilate Paul Dolan Calaphas John Howard Peter ‘Alastair Campbell Other parts played by:- ; Harvey Park Chris Deaking Simon richard Timothy Fen van Grech-Mintott Mike Osborne Mark Riding ‘Andrew Foster pitch Gresahetgty Philip Martyn-Smith eee Simon Bradshaw Guy Young Marcus Hill indrew Young ‘Andrew Viney David Hott fe Robert Jackson ee Producer: W. C. Newbold, Esq.THE C.C.F. Itis no coincidence that we are fortunate in the experience and enthusiasm of our officers, and also that the C.C.F. continues in good heart with efficient, vigorous training programmes, and numbers rising to 203. This year has seen Major Scorer continuing as Second in Command giving invaluable advice on every aspect of the CCF, supervising the external Leadership Cadre, and undertaking nearly all the organisation of the Adventure Training week. Captain Knowles has been recently promoted to this rank and has led the Patrol Platoon, together with CSM Tunnicliffe, thorugh a year of exciting and genuinely military training. Lt. Wolters has generously ued in charge of the Signals section who have passed the classification and signals instructor tests. The REME section has worked under Mr. Page, assisted by Sgt. Taylor, and they too have all earned the appropirate Cert. T. Certificates. Capt Morris joined the CCF direct from the Queen’s Own Irish Hussars, supervised the Apex Platoon together with CSM Middleton and C/Sgt Rocholl and Bull, through the difficult year of Apex tests for this group, and we are sorry that he is just staying the one year before moving to Bryanston. The exceptionally large intake of Recruits has been under the care of 2/Lt Elwell-Sutton and his team of NCOs led by Under Officer Bonell and C/Sgts Leonard and Fillery. Finally the RAF Section has continued to grow and develop under F/O Thomson. We welcome 2/Lt Bates commissioned in May this year and Lt. John Wickson who is joining us in September from Monmouth and Kenya, two valued additions to our officer strength. Expedition weekends have seen the Contingent departing to the familiar grounds of Nesscliff, Leek and Snowdonia, and Adrain Bonell earned his promotion to Under Officer by his detailed planning for Recruits training especially at these weekends. The Apex Platoon have had no relaxations, being under canvas up on the Stiperstones in October, again at Nesscliff in March and finally at Sonwdonia in May. The REME section have travelled to the gton REME workships for two days’ instruction, but the 19 in those barracks has prevented our party from staying overnight. The Patrol Section have been the envy of some others for the excitements of their weekends, staying at the Royal Marine Barracks in Plymouth in March — a gruelling weekend of physical 1g, then taking a Parachuting course in May, with the gentler excitements of leaping out of small aeroplanes. Adventure Training this year was in the Cairngorm Mountains based on the Army Ski Training Hut at Rothiemurchus Lodge. The last visit to this area in 1975 left us with legendary tales of camping in blizzards and waist deep snow, so the party of 6 officers, 3 OE's and 15 cadets travelled north in some anticipation. However, the Cairngorms relented for us this time and we only briefly tasted what the mountain storms can bring, when parties on both Cairngorm itself and on Braeriach had to turn back in ‘white-out’ conditions. C.F30 The major camping expedition was restricted to lower altitudes by the winds in midweek and we traversed the Larig Ghru, camping near the Corrour bothie, a bleak spot, with the novel sound of avalanches rumbling during the night. The last two days turned calm and sunny so both the skiing group and the hill-climbing party had unforgettable days high up in immense snowfields; perfect days to complete an excellent week. The Contingent entered teams in three of the District Com- petitions, the ‘March and Shoot’, near Worcester in February which a strong team under Sgt Brooke won to our great satisfaction. Then the orienteering in March in which we came eighth on a course run thorugh Cannock Chase woodland, mostly in rain, with an officers’ team also representing the Contingent with credit. Finally we came to the Patrol Competition on 6 May; a team led by CSM Tunnicliffe with Cpl Twist as 2i/c. This is a competition for which we had high hopes and extensive practice, and it speaks for the level of the competition standards to find us sixth. However this has only fuelled our determination to win next year! Inspection Day only comes biennially now, so we had a less formal visit to our training by Brigadier Hopkinson, Deputy Commander West Midland District, on 6 May at which all units from Recruits practising Field cooking to RAF Section at Aircraft recognition were visited, and a warm commendation was earned from the Brigadier. Finally to Annual Camp at Sennybridge. Forty one cadets, seven officers and CSM Page arrived to a large, well organised central camp, and embarked immediately on a 24-hour Patrol exercise then two days of varied competitions and Demon- strations, a day for Adventure training on the Brecon Beacons or parachuting, and finally a 48-hour exercie in which two forces of PROZ under Capt Morris hunted and battled with the elusive guerillas of ZAFFO led by Capt Knowles. The most vivid event for most of us was the Assault course in the March and Shoot Competition which involved a series of water obstacles culminating with water filled tunnels under a road, and here the Ellesmere team set the time record for the course. This was truly an Assault course to beat all other, and we were glad to see 2/Lt Bates initiating himself into the Contingent in proper style by going ‘through’ the course with other officers. R.RJ. R.A.F. SECTION In September we welcomed Chris Jenks, Anthony Ferrier, Michael Ingram and Ali Nassiri to the Section. Chris came to us from the A.T.C. in which he had been a corporal, and as he seemed the best one to lead the section in the future he was promoted to Sergeant straight away. In the Michaelmas term, however, we had Michael Napier back as Cadet Warrant Officer. Michael ‘had completed his Flying Scholarship training in the summer holidays so at last we had a real pilot on the section. We said farewell to him at Christmas and thank him for a most valuable contribution. We wish him all the best in his future career in the RAAF. For expeditions during the year we have used the Friday after- noon for a visit of aeronautical interest and joined in with an army exercise for the Saturday and Sunday. On these occasions we usually find ourselves as the enemy with a vast allocation of blanks and thunderflashes. Chris Jenks took particular delight frightening poor little recruits with loud bangs. We have made much use of the flying experience available at R.A.F, Shawbury, some of the cadets indulging in some quite exciting aerobatics. Others of us prefer to avoid the stunts and to keep our dinners in place. ‘At the end of the year we said farewell to many of the old faithfuls who have been in the section since it started: Chris Chater, Evers Grech-Mintoff and Dave Colclough, also Nithi, Anthony Fertier and Chris Jenks. ART. PATROL PLATOON This year there were eighteen cadets who opted for the Patrol Section from the APEX and we were in the happy position of being able to take them all. Thus with six excellent NCO’s, the remnant of last year’s section, the Patrol Platoon was born. Sgt. A. J. C. Tunnicliffe became Platoon Sergeant and the combined effort of the seven NCO's soon welded the Platoon into an efficient force. The Platoon was divided into three sections, each with a section commander and a2 i/c.There are many advantages of having three sections, the greatest probably being the spur of competition and the pride of belonging to a tightly knit group. A number of closely fought competitions in orienteering, obstacle crossing, shooting, initiative tests and first-aid, developed great spirit and excellent team work. The Platoon training for the year is planned to incorporate all aspects of Patrol Skills. Expedition weekends are of tremendous value in that concentrated training can take place over the two and a half days. The Michaelmas Expedition saw the Platoon practising section attacks as a demonstration for the Recruits; manning an extremely effective “night noise’ alley and defending Acksea Farm in slit trenches from hoards of suicidal recruits. One aspect of Patrol skills which the Platoon really worked hard on was the First-Aid. With the expert advice and practical help of Dr. Bottomley a number of realistic incidents were staged. These varied from gunshot wounds to road accident victims; this training culminated in an overturned car catching fire and trapping the three occupants. Brigadier Hopkinson, for whom the demonstration was arranged, seemed most impressed with the speed at which the competition section dealt with the accident. In the Lent term the Platoon were very lucky to be invited to visit the Royal Marines at Stonehouse Barracks, Plymouth. Here three very exhausting, but rewarding full days of training took place. A morning was spent on Plymouth Sound getting acquainted with the rigid raiding boats, the G.P.M.G. and Browning pistol were fired and a number of P.T. sessions kept everyone in a state of exhaustion. However, the highlight was the ‘Scenic Stroll’” over Dartmoor, followed by a Marine “’Speed March’ — 4 miles in 40 minutes. Over half the Platoon completed this gurelling test in 37 minutes and were able to feel pleased with themselves for a few moments, until our host Colour Sgt. Downey arrived with the stragglers. Soon, all were running knee deep in a handy bog because “‘in the Marines if one man lets the squad down you all suffer’’. It was not surprising later that evening that only three cadets out of the Platoon had the strength to sample the delights of Plymouth.The Summer term saw the formation of the ‘‘Competition Section” — the best ten cadets chosen to compete in the West Midland Patrol Competition. Training had to be brief due to the early date of the Competition, but all the ground work had been covered and only the small details had to be finalised. The Competition was more elaborate this year with a narrative linking the various phases. However luck was against us; in thick mist the team missed a vital check point on the top of the Stiperstones and this, with the added blow of the Section Attack being cancelled, cost us the competition. Comp fierce amongst units that an element of luck is necessary as well as a great deal of skill and preparation. Our final position of sixth was disappointing after so much effort, but the team can feel justly proud of their efforts. The lessons learned will profit next year’s team. Team: Section Cmd. Sgt. Tunnicliffe, Cpls. Twist (2 i/c), McMahon, Benson, Napier, Cats. Ashley, Humphreys, Hems, Jones D. G. and Green. ‘After the trauma of the Competition the Platoon had a relaxing weekend learning to parachute with the Herefordshire Parachute Club at Shobdon. Everyone over sixteen had six hours intensive training before leaping out of a tiny Cessna 206 at 2,600 feet above the patchwork fields of Herefordshire. An amazing experience and one that just had to be repeated the next day; after first repacking own parachutes. So confident was the Platoon Commander men that he even allowed Jones and Poorooshasb to repack chute for him and it worked! Apart from an afternoon's abseiling off Thomas Telford's 100’ h aqueduct at Chirk, the remainder of the year was spent in introducing the Apex Platoon to the joys of the Patrol Platoon. From the response so far it seems likely that the Platoon will be in existence again next year. | would like to take this opportunity of thanking C.S.M. Tunnicliffe, Cpls. Twist, McMahon, Benson, L/Cpls. Napier, Harding-Rolls and Lushey for the enthusiasm, hard work and skill they have put into their sections throughout the year. Also Dr. Malcolm Bottomley for his invaluable assistance with the First Aid. P.J.N.K.SOCIAL SERVICES This year has probably been the busiest one for the group. We welcomed the Revd. M. R. Ruff o the Society's leadership, whose immediate two principle aims were ‘‘change’’ and “expansion”, and that is what we have seen! Boosting our size to 32 members and 18 clients including the Cottage Hospital, the Old Peoples’ Home an The Dolywern Cheshire Home visits, we then had to regulate and turn recruits away. With the loss of many Sixth Formers this year, we would welcome more potential members. The Committee decided to venture into a new series of our Annual Fund Raising Evenings for which we rely on the kindness and generosity of the parents, the boys and the public to keep us functioning. This year we held a Fashion Show, sponsored by ““Majors’’, in the Arts Centre, and its outcome was a huge suc- cess, trebling last year’s profit. ‘July has been a month of terrifically hard work. As well as The Helping Hand visit and the Dolywem Fete, the group is in preparation for the Social Service Senior Dance and the Salford Boys’ visit after the school has broken up. The money raised from our functions goes towards providing the underprivileged Salford boys a holiday centred around the College. With the little extra, we will buy a much needed lawnmower and gardening tools for our clients’ gardens, and some painting equipment. Finally, | must point out the Social Servants sitting with old folk drinking tea and eating scones and cakes is an unfair tra n we try to dismiss. Tea and cakes are only a just reward for the work we do, which our clints appreciate and to which we look forward. Robin SheppardSCOUTS This has been quite a successful year in the troop. Activities were based largely on basic scouting skills, all boys working towards gaining their Scout Standard or Advanced Scout Stand- ard awards. Compass work and map reading were again an essential part of our outdoor training but not the only one, as our three expedition weekends gave us the opportunity to test our progress, or lack of it (?) in many a field. For example, in the Michaelmas expedition, which saw a return visit to the ever popular Wrekin site, Patrol Leaders built their own bivouacs and spent the night in them, whilst the rest of the troop took part in the suc- cessful construction and use of the now traditional aerial runway. In the Lent term, all members happily exchanged patrol tents for the luxuries of Llangollen youth hostel and enjoyed a fine orien- tering day on the hills around the town. In May, Patrols — now reduced in numbers, senior boys having moved on to the Venture Scouts — under new Patrol Leaders, carried out their own hiking expeditions over the Berwyns, before meeting at Tyfos Farm, near Bala, for the second night. Two ice-skating trips, raft building, cooking and pioneering projects, Nature walks and conservation at the Sweeney Mountain Nature reserve were also part of this year’s programme, emphasizing the variety of our activities. In this year which saw a palace revolution resulting in your humble servant having to write this article (1), we were fortunate to obtain the services of Mr. J. R. Clark, who filled the gap left by C.D.F. now mainly helping with the Venture Scouts, Finally | would like to thank N.R.A. for his help and last, but by no means least, K.J.S. and P.B.P. without whose energey and experience the troop would not run as smoothly as it does. M.R. VENTURE SCOUTS This year has seen confirmation of last year’s decision to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Out of the twelve people who started the scheme at the beginning of the year, six completed their expedition in Michaelmas Expedition Weekend, and four have completed their silver award. Everybody has completed the service section and nearly everybody, including this term's recruits, have completed the fitness section. During the summer holiday three members of the unit are attempting the gola expedition with two members of the 0.T.U. and two members of the C.C.F. and so progress is very definitely encouraging. This introduction may give the impression that we have abandoned the traditional occupations of the Venture Scout Unit, but this is by no means the case. We continue to act as the School fire party and this year the whole unit benefitted from a whole day's intensive training at Oswestry Fire Station which was en- joyable and very instructive. More recently we took part in an exercise at School with four appliances from Ellesmere, Oswestry and Wem. ‘Once more the Venture Scout Unit has ventured underground in Yorkshire, Derbyshire and North Wales. In Derbyshire we have had Sunday trips to P8 and Carlswark Wonder Cave. A third Sunday trip to help at a “‘dig’’ in North Wales was prevented by the ‘flu bug which struck last term, but we still hope to get involved in this activity. Nearer to home we have had fairly regular trips to lower Ceiriog Cave west of Chirk and are hoping to survey this cave next term. We have now got 175 feet of ladder and have access to another 50 feet. All of this was required during this term’s ex- pedition weekend when we had an extensive and even exhaustive trip to Ireby Fall Cavern in Yorkshire where we discovered that following a party of nine cavers down three pitches is a very time consuming affair! During the year a variety of other activities have been at- tempted, most with a reasonable degree of success. We crossed top pond by means of a commando bridge and in a more down to earth (water?) manner we crossed the river Dee through fast moving, waist deep water at Trevor. During the Lent term ex- pedition weekend half of the unit also negotiated expanses of water but in this case they did so by means of a narrowboat on the Shropshire Union Canal. The rest of the group went to the Lake District to Coniston Far End Youth Hostel. A 600ft. snow gully on Dow Crag was climbed before returning via Coniston Old Man, ‘Swirl Flow and the Copper Mines Valley. On the Sunday a mar- vellous day was had starting at Wynose Pass and taking in Pike O'Blesco, Crinkle Crages and Bowfell in a flurry of unashamed “peak bagging’’..We descended to Old Durgeon Ghyll Hotel by means of Rossett Gill and-it was generally felt that this was one of the most enjoyable expedition weekends for some time. The walking obviously encouraged a number of members of the unit to indulge in more walking and the unit now has seven more LykeWake Dirges as a result of this term’s optional activity when a joint OTU/Venture Scout expedition once more attempted the Lyke Wake Walk. The rest of the unit went to Yorkshire where seven members went caving and the rest attacked Ingeborough on the Saturday and Pen y Ghent on the Sunday. All of this year’s expeditions have been carried out in con- junction with the OTU and this gives a certain amount of flexibility of activities and of use of leaders, and | hope that this trend will continue. Several members of this year's intake have already displayed much enthusiasm and since only three senior members have left, this coming year should be every bit as good and en- joyable as the one just completed. | would like to finish off by thanking Joe Killen, especially for his chairmanship of the group, and all of the other members of the unit who have helped to make this such an enjoyable year. POTHOLING We started off in the van about half ten. There were six of us, Mr. Panting, Joe Killen, Beavan, Vaughan Jones, Tim Russell and myself. Everybody except Vaughan Jones and Tim Russell were clad in wetsuits who were assured by the rest of the team that they would get thoroughly wet and cold, but this obviously didn’t deter them from having a good time. ‘We travelled for about an hour in the hot morning sun until we reached the National Caving Centre and hired some lamps. We reached the area of the hole and those of us in wet suits were well and truly roasted and to be told we had to walk about half a mile to. reach the site . . . well, | can tell you, it was pretty uncomfortable! Mr. Panting went down first, through what looked like a drain cover, stretched through a sort of tunnel and disappeared to what we called the first pitch. We all followed carefully, and were told to wait a while for our eyes to get used to the dark. Beavan went on forward to help get things set up, whilst Joe Killen stayed behind with the less experienced of us to make sure we were all right. It was a relief to get into the cool. We waited while the gear was set up, sitting in the dark with ropes and wire ladders hanging from our necks. The time came when | had to go down my first ladder. Although | had practiced climbing down such ladders at school from the water tower, | was still alittle apprehensive and my limited knowledge of knots had to come into operation but thanks to Bev soon got sorted out. Firstly we had to tie a length of rope round our waists for safety, handing the other end to Mr. Panting who would belay us down. | was given all sorts of tips as how to do down the ladder, but, when | was actually doing it I found it best to go down how | felt most comfortable and I devised my own methods. | seemed to be climbing for ages and when | reached the bottom | couldn't believe the height from which | had just come! (in fact it was more than the height of the water towerl!). We did three such pitches, and then crawled and walked for half a mile in order to reach the last pitch where we had to press our backs and feet against two walls horizontally, whilst going over a gaping hole with a water fall. This | think was the most hair raising part and it was the only time | was really scared, especially on the way back when | slipped!! When we reached the bottom we walked and crawled through little passages with stalactites and stalagmites galore and with the torch light on them it was a marvellous sight.