The Ellesmerian Vol. LXXIII MAY, 1962 No. 293 MICHAELMAS TERM School Officers Captain of School. Prefect of Chapel. Prefect of Hall..... Prefect (Sept. Prefects, (Dec. 20th)... E. T. D. LeapaeaTEr . A. SMITH R. D. CLARKE B. BAKHTIAR K. Wenster .D. R. Apporr, R. A. BALL, G. Captain of Rugby’... Captain of Squash Racquet A. Suir Captain of Shooting. R. J. Reeves Libraria |. M. NICKSON Sacristans... .>R. D. CLarke and C.J, PARKER2 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL, LXXIII. No. 293 School Notes At the beginning of term the following appointments were made: E. T. D. Leapaeater, Captain of School; J. A. Smit, Prefect of Chapel and Captain of Rugger; R. D. CLarxe, Prefect of Hall; while R. BAKHTIAR became a Prefect. soe oe On Sunday, October 15th, Mitzi Lawton and Herbert Jones, with the Ellesmere Singers, gave a short but most enjoyable programme in Big School. On St. Luke's Day, October J8th, the Headmaster was installed by the Provost at a service at 4.0 p.m. In honour of the occasion we had a half-holiday the following day. + oe oe Canon Woodard, the grandson of our Founder, spent the week-end, October 21st-23rd with us. He preached on the Sunday morning and spoke to Common Room in the evening, The C.C.F. and Senior Scouts’ Field Day took place on Tuesday, October 24th. The Corps went to the Clwyd Range, while the Scouts were in the Llangollen area. At half-term, R. D. Clarke resigned his post as Sacristan, and was succeeded by C. J. Parker. soe oe In honour of the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of the Liverpool Playhouse, a party of the Ellesmerian Society attended a performance of A School for Scandal on November 11th. Though the morning weather was inclement, it cleared a little in the afternoon for the Remembrance Service in Ellesmere Church on November 12th. At 11.0 a.m. the prayers were read by the Rev. R. R. Walker, and the wreath laid on the School War Memorial by C.S.M. larke. There was a School Concert in Big School at 7.30 p.m. on November 25th. In general the audience considered this the most enjoyable concert heard at School. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols took place at 5.0 p.m. on the last Sunday of term, and the Junior House Carol Service was held on the Monday at 4.0 p.m. There were performances of Macbeth in Big School on the last Monday, Tuesday and Wed- nesday of term. On the last day of term D. R. Abbott, R. A. Ball and G. W. K. Webster were appointed Prefects. All were very genuinely sorry to lose Mr. G. B. G. Lawson, and we wish him every success and happiness in his new post at Malvern. We welcome in his piace Mr. J. D. Naylor, G.R.S.M. (Manch.), A.R.M.C.M., who has been teaching at the Royal Manchester College of Music, after a year as acting Director of Music at Trent College.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 3 Hovse Notes MEYNELL Captain of House... J. A. Smith House Prefects ae . D.R. Abbott, G. W. K. Webster F. P. Hodgkinson, M. E. D. Howell Captain of Juniors... R. G. Crossman Senior House Colours M. E. D. Howell, D. R. Leftwich This term, Meynell can proudly claim a good share in each of the School's rugger teams. In the School’s Ist XV we have five members, J. A. Smith (Capt.), D. R. Abbott, G. W. K Webster, D. N. Clay and J. R. Ridgway—D. R. Abbott must be congratulated on receiving his Full Colours. Seven of the 2nd XV are members of Meynell House: F. P. Hodgkinson, M. S. Oliver, H. D. Tawawala, D. R. Leftwich, M. C. Bishton, R. J. Richards and D. R. Edwards. In the Colts XV we have five members, R. Stretton, T. G.'N. Green, P. Bishton, N. T. Simpson and A. Roberts. Seven junior members, P. R. L. Cooper (Capt.), M. J. Patterson, D. J. Hall, P. J. Hodgkinson, J. H. Parry, K. Goodarzi and C. L. Moss are in the “Under Fiteens” XV. In the “Under Fourteens”, however, we have only two players, C. S. Shaw (Capt.), and P. R. Spink. In the Shakespearian Society's production of Macbeth, Meynell house members playing leading parts were J. R. Ridgway as ‘Macbeth’, J. M. S. Charnley as‘Duncan’, M. S. Oliver as *Malcolm’, M. D. Bonner-Thomas as ‘Caithness’ and J. E. Cope as a witch. In the Cadet Corps this term, a record was set up, for, of all the eight Meynell House boys who took the Part II Proficiency Certificate—J. W. V. Chillcott (Ist), R. Stretton, N. T. Simpson, D. Edwards, J. M. S. Charnley, C. Neill, J. R. Cave-Rogers and 'T. G. N. Green—every one passed with credit. We have six leavers this term—D. R. Leftwich, L. C. Suddaby, M. J. Turner, R. K. Bell, M. E. D. Mowell and M. G. Bishton-—to whom we wish the best of lick in their future eaters, -W.0. Valete-—M. E. D. HoweLt, entered School Sep., *52. G.C.E. “O” Level, 1957 (6). G.C.E. “A” and “S” Level, 1959, °60, "61 (3). Fllesmerian Society Committee, 1959-61. Seven Club 1959-61. Seven Club Secretary'1960-61. House Prefect ’61. House Colours ’61. D. R. Lerrwich, entered 1956 (December)—Senior School. Junior House Colours 1957. 2nd XV. School Tennis VI—Capt. Capt. House Tennis. Senior House Colours 1961. C.C.F.—Pt. Tand Pt. i, L/Cpl. T. R) Leadbeater J. Reeves, K. R. H. Thomas, Captain of House E, RJR S. R. Clarke, P. L. Thomason, S.CT E. House Prefects .C. Turpin 7 D. Leadbeater, R. J. Reeves, K. R. H. Thomas, S. G. Turpin Junior House Colours vs P. J, Nagele, P. F, Bamford Senior House Colours4 THE ELLESMERIAN, VoL. LXXIII. No. 293 As the number of shopping days to Christmas decreases steadily, we look back on what has been an enjoyable if rather uneventful term. No cups were contested at all, and we are neither obliged to deprecate our victories nor excuse our defeats. However, we did succeed in defeating Wakeman in a friendly table tennis tournament. For this we must thank A. D. Bunting and his fellow players. A few weeks after the beginning of term we were presented with three new House Prefects: S.C. Turpin, S$. R. Clarke and P. L. Thomason. We are already beginning to feel the wind of change blowing strongly through the school. Frequent gusts have reached the House and we must thank the Headmaster for a new Hobbies’ room (which P. C. R. Lewis has kindly supplied with a set of tools) and for reclothing the billiard table. Most of us look forward to further changes in the future. With all the usual keenness, preparations were made for the House Party. We should like to thank all those who helped in the decorating of the dayroom, or who supplied food. The party itself provided all the amusement it has done in previous years. After the festivities K. R. H. Thomas was awarded his Senior House Colours and P. J. Nagele and P. F, Bamford their Junior House Colours. The House is to be congratulated on its part in buying the typewriter presented to Mr. Lawson. We all hope that whenever typing he will entertain pleasant memories of Ellesmere. This term we say goodbye to S. C. Turpin and K. R. H. Thomas, both of whom have done a great deal for the House, especially on the sport's field. We wish them as much success in the outside world as they have enjoyed at school. PLM Valete—K. R. H. THOMAS. Talbot House Sept., 1957. House Prefect 1961; Junior House Colours 1959; Senior House Colours 1961. Rugger: U.14’s 1957-58; U.15’s 1959; Colts XV 1960; Ist XV and 2nd XV 1961. Cricket: Junior Colts XI 1957-1959; Senior Colts XI'1960. Athletics: Captain of House Athletics 1961. C.C.F.: Cert “A” Part I and II 1959; Sigs. Classification 1960; Assist, Instructors Exam. 1961; Sgt. 1961. G.C.E. “0” Level 1961. S.C. Turpin : entered Christmas, 1957. in 1957: Colts Cricket XI; Under 14’s rugger XV. In’ 1958 : Under 15°s XV rugger ; Junior House Colours ; 2nd. XI cricket. In 1959 : Colts rugger XV ; 2nd XI cricket. In 1960: Part I and II cert.; 2nd and Ist Rugger XV, 2nd and Ist Cricket XI; School Shooting VIII; Captain of House Shooting. In 1961: Ist XV half-colours; Richmond’ “7-a-side"; Capt. of House Shooting; Captain of House Athletics; School shooting VIII; Senior House Colours; House Prefect; Capt. of House Rugger; Cpl. C.C.F- WAKEMAN Captain of House... Rs D. Clarke Vice Captain... . R.A. Ball House Prefects es .. J. M. Nickson, J. T. P, Roberts, J. S. Bloomfield Captain of Junior Dormitory F. G. Parrott Captain of Juniors... R. A. Preece House Colours—Seniot —_.... R. D. Clarke, R. A. Ball, J. M. Nickson, F. S. Moreton Junior R. A. Preece, K. Higgins, D. 3. Swinn, T. L. Moreton, N. G. Sibley In a term remarkable for its complete lack of Inter-House competitions, life has progressed smoothly. ‘A date in December was chosen for the House's legalised gluttony and insolence. Jokes, that in other circumstances would have been rewarded by at jeast “half-an-hour”, passed in stormsMay, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 5 and his even swifter descent; Raybould’s dry humour applied to “Wet Wales” temperance desires; and Kerschell’s modified version of “Looking for Trouble”—a suitable choice for one so newly entered into the House! ‘The funds were again stretched, and a more spirited cloth laid on the billiard table, the old one having had all resistance exorcised from it, after five years of constant use and abuse. Enthusiastic house carpenters strove to level the supporting table. They intend to build a new one next term in the House hobby room which was constructed in great haste, but with praise-worthy efficiency, by the School Carpenters at the Headmaster’s request. One evening the Headmaster visited us to try to savour the atmosphere of a House during the term. His leading questions kept everyone alert—such mental activity requiring quite an effort at 10.0 p.m. Senior House Colours were awarded to J. M. Nickson and F. S. Moreton, who, unfortunately, is leaving us, breaking into a very successful school career. We wish him all success in his chosen ‘occupation. Junior Colours were awarded to K. Higgins, D. J. Swinn, T. L. Moreton and N. G. Sibley. Although there was no inter-House rugger, effort and enthusiasm were not lacking. Seven members of the House played regularly for the ist XV, and Baldwin, Moreton and Clarke should be congratulated on their half-colours. The permanently blackened eyes of Higgins were evidence both of Clarke's keenness and his flying elbows. Eight members of the Colts came from Wakeman, four of whom received their colours. During the last few days, the House combined to decorate the main corridor with holly, evergreens and candles together with some grotesquely carved turnips —somewhat alarming for the highly strung! The over-all effect of a candle lit cloister was very pleasing. of appreciative laughter. The high-spots of the evening included Parrott’s swift ascent to the rafters CCH. Valete.—F. $. MoRETON. Entered Junior School, 1954. Junior School Football, 1956. Junior School Cricket, 1955-6. Monitor, 1956. Junior School Colours 1956. Wakeman House, 1956. U. 14's Cricket, 1957. U.14’s Rugby, 1957. Captain U.14's Cricket, 1958. U.1S’s Rugby, 1958. Captain Junior Colts (Colours), 1959 Colts Rugby, 1959. Captain Senior Colts Cricket (Colours), 1960. 2nd XV, 1960. ist XV, 1961. (Half-Colours), 1961. Captain Senior Cricket, 1961. Junior Tennis, 1959. ‘Captain House Squash, 1961. School Squash Team, 1961. Gert “A” Pt. I, 1959, Cert “A” Pt. II, 1960. Sergeant, 1961. Junior House Colours 1959. Senior House Colours 1961. G.C.E. “O” Level, 1961. WOODARD Captain of House. B. Bakhtiar House Colours Mr. G. B. G. Lawson, B. Bakhtiar, G. T. Doodson, R. B. Williams X, P. J. Mincher- Lockett. Juniors E, T. Hamar, 8. Thirsk Nothing of sporting interest has occurred this term because the inter-House Rugger has been put off till next term. ‘Next term we move from our present day-room to our new day-room in Crypt One.6 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL. LXXIII. No. 293 Due to alterations in our present day-room, the House-Party was held in the new band hut. This was a great success and some of the acts were very good and extremely amusing. Bakhtiar took this wonderful opportunity of giving Mr. Lawson his House Colours. At the end of this term we say goodbye to two prefects, Doodson and Williams, and several other House members whom we wish all the best in their future careers. R.A.K.H. Valete—G. T. Doopson (1956-61), (Vice-Capt. House). House Prefect (1960-6); Senior House Colours (1960); Junior House Colours °58. School Teams: Rugby: Under 14's XV 1956-58 (Capt. and Colours); Under 15's XV 1959 (Capt. and Colours); Colts XV 1960 (Capt. and Colours) First XV_ 1960-61, half-Colours; Richmond VII “A” team. Cricket: Under 14’s XI (1957); Under 15's Xi ({958); Senior Colts (1959); Second XI (1960). Victor Ludorum (Junior). Capt. House Running. Capt. House Rugby. C.C.F. Part [and Il Cert. "A"; Cpl. (1960). G.C:E, “0% Level, °61 (3). Wittiams, X, R. B.: 2nd XI Cricket 1961; House Prefect 1961; Senior House Colours 1961. G.C.E.“O” Level, 4 subjects, 1961; G.C.E. Geography prize. Cert “A™ Part land Il; L./Cpl. 1961. Junior House Head Monitor a vs H. V. S, Cornwell Monitors... s._ J. 8. Openshaw, R. N. Boyle, J, Pilkington, M. C. Thornton, D. C. Bratby, C. J. Bowley All-round Cup Windsors House Colours... H. V. 8. Cornwell, R. N. Boyle We start our House Notes this time by offering our hearty congratulations to the football team on 4 most successful term. After a most unpromising—even depressing—start, they developed into a commanding side capable of mastering even powerful opposition. A detailed report of the term’s Soccer is given elsewhere, but it was felt right to record our appreciation of the team’s efforts in these notes. Christmas examinations have, no doubt, provided a great stimutus to our work this year, as also has the system of awarding a ‘plus’ mark where a boy is seen to be trying hard. In this connection we should Jike to congratulate C. R. Bourne and R. J. Hulmes who won “Star” Prizes, mainly as a result of good and improved work. ‘Our annual concert of musical items and recitations, held towards the end of November, Provided a most entertaining half-hour. The seasoned performers gave pleasing evidence of their Progress and inspired in the newcomers a high standard of performance. Special mention must be made of J. E. Allsop, a new arrival this term, who proved his talent by singing solo items both in the concert, and carol service. We were pleased to see so many parents supporting our efforts. The House party was, as usual, a lively affair. Each dorm. presented a play of its own com- Position and production. “This was followed by a “spread” of considerable proportions, generously contributed to by parents, and the evening was concluded by several short films. Needless to say, @ good time was had by all. The events of the term were concluded appropriately by our service of lessons and carols, which once again presented the story of Christmas in a simple and moving form. This year four Of the lessons were read from the text of the “New English Bible” It was with regret that we learned that Mr. Lawson, who has trained our choir and directed our musical efforts for the last five years, was leaving Us to take up a post at Malvern School. We have much appreciated his cheerful co-operation during that period and wish him every success in the future. REB.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 7 “O” Level Supplementaries ‘The following supplemented their “O" Level Certificates in December: Anson (1); Bakhtiar (3); Baldwin (1); Bayat (1); Biddle (1); Bowen (3); Brockhouse (1); Bunting (1); Collis (1); Cooke (1); Crutchfield (1); Dean (i); Deadson (2); Gibson (1); Hatton(1); Higgins, i (1); Hoppins (2); Kelly (2); Laithwaite (2); Leftwich (1); Mills (2); Mincher-Lockett (2); Moreton, i (1); Moore (1); Perry (2); Richards, ii (2); Sanandaji (2); Sedgwick (1); Suddaby (3); Sutherland (2); Tawawala (1); Thomas, K. (1); Thomas, N. (1); Turner (2); Turpin (1); Whitehouse (1). Chapel Notes Visitors to the Chapel this term have included the Rev. Harry Hartley (R. of Solihull and Fellow), the Rev. Richard Eckersley, O-E., the Rev. Canon Alfred Woodard (V. of St. Andrew the Great, Cambridge), the Ven. John Lewis (Archd. of Ludlow), the Rev. J. G. Murphy, C.F. (Infantry sunior Leaders Bn., Park Hall) and Fr. Peter (Community of the Glorious Ascension) In addition to speaking in Chapel, Fr. Eckersley spoke to the Ellesmerian Society on the work of the Church in his district of Portsmouth, and Canon Woodard met the Common Room to discuss with them his grandfather's ideals in founding his schools. Special services during the term have included the Feast of Dedication, Thanksgiving for the Harvest, the Remembrance service in St. Mary's, Ellesmere, and the service of Nine Lessons on the last Sunday of the term. The most memorable of all was the Installation by the Provost of the new Headmaster, which took place on October 16th. Everything was done to make this an expression of the spiritual aspect of bearing rule at Ellesmere, and the dignity and simplicity of the service seems to have impressed everyone. ‘An innovation during the term has been the reading of the daily lessons by certain House Prefecis who have offered to do so. This is not necessarily a permanent arrangement, but has ‘aroused much interest, and a good deal of care has been given to the preparation of the lessons by those concerned. {it has also been a great pleasure to be able to include more fully in our worship the Rev. R. R Walker, and we are very grateful to him for the help that he has given in apel. During the term R. Clarke has resigned the position of Sacristan, after giving service of a quality that few have done. He has been replaced by C. Parker, who thus comes to hold the Position which was his brother's two years ago. S.C. Installation of Head Master The Installation of the Head Master took place at 4.0 p.m. on the Feast of Saint Luke, Wednesday, October 18th. Holy Communion was celebrated at 7.25 a.m. in honour of the Saint, and naturally the solemn ceremony of the afternoon was in everyone’s thoughts and prayers. ‘After the visiting Headmistresses, the School and Visitors had taken their places, the procession of the Fellows, visiting Headmasters and Chaplains, Members of the Staff and the Head Master entered the Chapel. This procession was closely followed by that of the Choir, Officiating Minister (The Reverend L. E. H. Caller, 0.E.), and the Provost, preceded by his cross. Evensong was sung up to the end of the Collects, the lessons being read by the Captain of School and the Second Master. During the singing of the hymn Ye warchers and ye holy ones, Sir Offiey Wakeman, as tepresentative of the Woodard Corporation, conducted the Head Master to the Sanctuary where he presented him to the Provost. After accepting the presentation, the Provost exhorted the congregation to “kneel in silence for @ space and invoke the Holy Spirit of God.” Then was sung the Veni Creator by the kneeling congregation. After the Head Master had been reminded of Nathaniel Woodard’s object and intention in building the School, he made his solemn and sincere declaration that he believed the three Creeds and the lawful mission of the Church of England; lastly, he promised to observe the Statutes of the Corporation of SS. Mary and Nicolas. ‘The Head Master received the blessing of the Provast. who then conducted him to his stall and there assigned to him “this place and seat, with all the rights and privileges pertaining to the8 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL. LXXIII, No. 293 office of Head Master.” He was exhorted “to rule with love, seeking diligently the spirit of wisdom and knowledge, for the glory of God and the edification of the Body of Christ.” ‘After the singing of the hymn Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation, the ceremony concluded with the Provost's Blessing. ‘Many visitors remarked on the dignity of the ceremony and the excellence of the Choir, and special thanks are due fo the Chaplain and Mr. Lumley. "Tea was served in the Dining Hall immediately after the Service. The Head Master and Mrs. Beer received their guests at the door and then mingled with the assembled company. Tn honour of the occasion the Head Master granted a half holiday on the following day, Thursday, October 19th. ‘Amongst those present were: The Right Reverend the Bishop of Shrewsbury (Provost) and Mrs. Parker; Major F. J. Yates, J.P. (Fellow); Captain Sir Offley Wakeman, BI., C.B.E., D.L. (Feliow, and Custos of Ellesmere); The Rt. Hon. the Earl of Cavan (Fellow); The Reverend Canon H. P. Saunders (Fellow); Colonel H. H. Story, M.C. (Divisional Bursar) and Mrs. Story and the Vicomtesse de Bondy; 'C. H. Mostyn-Owen, Esq. (Fellow). Mrs. B. M. W. Trapnell (Denstone College); Major and Mrs. John Kenyon (Prestfelde School, Shrewsbury); Miss M. E. S. Roch (Headmistress, School of SS. Mary and Anne, Abbots Bromley); Miss M. J. ‘Taylor (Headmistress, S. Winifred's School, Llanfairfechan); The Reverend G. G. ‘Newman (Chaplain, S. Winifred’s ‘Schoot, Llanfairfechan); The Reverend C. J. A. Payton (Vicar and Chaplain of Abbots Bromiey); Miss I. Kinsey (Headmistress of S. Hilary's School, Alderley Edge); The Reverend H. J. Pickles (Chaplain of Worksop College); R. S. Thompson, Esq. (Head Master of Bloxham School). ‘The Head Master of King’s School, Worcester and Mrs. Annet; The Reverend D. E. C. Hayman (Chaplain, Marlborough College); Mr. and Mrs. Keast (Marlborough College); Major R. B. and Mrs. Pearson (Packwood Haugh); Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Beer; Lieutenant-Colonel and Mrs. E. S. G. Howard; Mr. A. M. Rees (Chief Constable of Denbighshire) and Mrs. Rees; Mrs. H. C. Cholmondeley (Lee Hall, Ellesmere); Dr. and Mrs. M. E. R. Samson; The Reverend R. J.C. Lumley (Vicar of the Abbey Church, Shrewsbury); The Reverend N. A. Fenn (Vicar of Ellesmere) and Mrs. Fenn. Chapel Music and Choir Notes ‘The term has been a memorable one for several reasons. In the first place, we lost very few of our experienced singers at the end of the Summer term, and this has helped very much in the preparation of our music. Secondly, we have been fortunate in being able to welcome a greater fiumber of trebles than in recent terms who have come from other choirs—and whose experience, therefore, is obviously of great value to us. Thirdly—though perhaps as a natural result of these two previous reasons—there has been much enthusiasm and hard work. Quite a large variety of music has been sung—both Service settings and Anthems—some of which had not been heard for a number of terms. On those Sundays (alternate ones, usually) when we have had a setting of the canticles at Evensong in which the congregation joins, they have done so whole-heartedly. The contribution of both choir and congregation to the singing at the Head Master’s Installation Service will not soon be forgotten. At this we sang a hymn-tune (to the hymn How beauteous are their feet who stand on Sion's hill) and a chant (to the {22nd psalm) both of which had been composed for the occasion. Treble descants, both at this service and on other occasions throughout the term, have sometimes been almost thrilling to hear. It should not be forgotten that the full effect of a descant is never heard unless the congregation is singing its part effectively and without hesitation. On the Sunday nearest to Saint Cecilia’s Day, a large number stayed after Evensong to hear some organ and vocal music. A. H. Jeffreys and R. J. Cox sang Richard Dering’s two-part Above him stood the Seraphim with unusual artistry, from opposite sides of the organ gallery; and they combined equally effectively in a two-part arrangement of Mozart's Ave verum corpus. Mr. Lumley played organ music by Bach, Camil Van Hulse and Vierne. ‘We have welcomed the following trebles to the Choir this term: A. H. Jeffreys and N. W. S. Jones (both from Llandaff Cathedral), C. F. Lewis (from Lichfield Cathedral), R. J. Cox (from S. John’s College, Cambridge) and M: Keyworth (from Alton Castle School, Staffordshire). | RALLMay, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 9 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols This eagerly-anticipated festival was held in the candlelit Chapel on the last Sunday of term, 17th December. A large number of visitors—parents and old Ellesmerians—were able to be present and to share with us in hearing once more the story of the Fall and Redemption of man through readings from the Scriptures and through the singing of Carols. Organ Music before the Service Chorale Preludes: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm’ ich her. Earth has many a noble city. Pastorale from the “Christmas” Concerto Improvisation on The First Nowell... --Johann Pachelbel Flor Peeters Arcangelo Corelli Peter Burton Carols Hymns Recitative and Chorale from Bach's Christmas Once in Royal David s city Oratorio Q little town of Bethlehem ‘Adam lay bounden While shepherds watched God rest ye merry, gentlemen As with gladness men of old On Christmas night all Christians sing O come, all ye faithful I saw three ships come sailing in Hark, the herald Angels sing Wail! Blessed Virgin Mary! A great and mighty wonder Three kings from Persian lands afar Torches ! torches! Once, as I remember Readers Soloists: A Ghorister: M. St. K. D. Willcock Treble: A. H. Jeffreys, M. Keyworth, R. T. H. A fourth-former: M. J. Whitlow Williams, N. W. S. Jones, C. F. Lewis, A fifth-former: T. F. G. Abraham. S. G. Cutting, G. C. Snell A House Prefect: D. R. Abbott Alto: R. M. Killey ‘The Sacristan: C. J. Parker Tenor: S. R. Clarke, T. G. N. Green, R. P. The Captain of School: E. T. D. Leadbeater Hirtenstein ‘The Second Master Bass: R. J. Reeves, E. A. Crutchfield The Chaplain The Head Master ‘The unaccompanied carols were conducted by Mr. G. B. G. Lawson and the organist was Mr. R. A. L. Lumley. “Macbeth” by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE December 18th, 19th and 20th, 1961 CHARACTERS IN THE PLAY Duncan, King of Scotland J. M. S. Charaley Matcom M. S. Oliver Donatpatn fis sons wns LL. T. Rutherford MacserH, af first a General, later King ‘or'Scotland ... 3, R, Ridgway BANQUO, a General D. R. Whitehouse Macourr, a Generat M. G. Mann LENNOX") S. 0. Clegg. Ross C. 5. Parker MENTIETH } Scottish Lords R. V. Wells Anaus | N. J. Wheeler Carriness J M. D. Bonner-Thomas FLEANCE, son of Banquo AM, Stwarp, Earl of Northumberland, English General PLL.10 THE ELLESMERIAN Vot. LXXIII. No. 293 YOUNG SIWARD, his son... : +. E.G. Denman SeYTON, armour bearer to Macbeth M. S. Hollway ‘A SERGEANT . I. Newport A Porter... I. Newport ‘A Doctor B. E. G. Oates MurDeRERs sie: P. Cowell A. W. Egerton (RP. Hirtenstein Tue Weirp SISTERS sass 4 J Es Copee RJ. Biddle Lavy Macaern JCA. Barrett A GENTLEWOMAN, C. G. Cutting [J.W. V. Chilleott SERVANTS HJ INE The Play produced by Mr. C. Howard ‘The Music under the direction of Mr. R. A. L. Lumley Subscriptions received ee EC) Expenses (Printing, Postages, Hire of Costumes and Swords, Chairs, Music, New Curtains and Fittings) £151 6 9 Balance to Chapel/Fund ... £627 9 Play week was strangely beautiful. ‘The thermometer registered a good twelve degrees of frost and a thick rime covered every leaf and twig. A blanket of fog reduced visibility to a matter of yards, and to the visitors travelling the roads, trees appeared suddenly out of the gloom like spectres of majesty and mystery from another world. A red afternoon sun cast its uncanny glow through the windows of Big School and became an accepted part of the presentation of Macbeth, William Shakespeare s medieval tragedy. From windows to stage was but a glance, a glance that was held with almost mesmeric attention from the time the curtain parted for the “Wild Trio” and their raging elements to take possession of us, until the final triumphant proclamation of “Malcolm, King of Scotland!" “Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the filthy air,” shricked the Three Weird Sisters (R. P. Hirtenstein, J. E. Cope and R. J. Biddle) “Each at once her choppy finger laying upon her skinny lips.” A sense of evil enjoyment in their supernatural practice was conveyed across the gloom, as cach contributed “Eye of newt and toe of frog, wool of bat and tongue of dog” to the furiously bubbling and steaming cauldron. These three prophetesses gave an awe-inspiring performance and accompanied it with voices conjured up from we know not where. They immediately set the Pace and atmosphere of the play. J. M. S. Charnley interpreted Duncan, King of Scotland as a man of dignity and stateliness, establishing his succession and estates upon his son Malcolm as “Prince of Cumberland”; and honour upon Macbeth as “Worthy Thane of Cawdor . . . a peerless kinsman.” Malcolm (M. S. Oliver) and Donalbain (1. L. T. Rutherford) sons of King Duncan, carried out their self-inflicted banishment with the required emphasis. Malcoim’s return to Dunsinane with his tree-embelished army, to do battle and demand the surrender of the Castle, was carried through with aplomb and resulted in his glorious triumph and succession to the Crown. Every word by Banquo (D. R. Whitehouse) impressed us with its sincerity. His exclamations on the heath, “What are these, so withered and so wild in their attire?’ and of the witches disappearance—“Whither are they vanished?”"—were the natural exclamations of a puzzled man, Later, as he meditates on the fulfilment of the prophecies for Macbeth’s future “Thou hast it now ‘King, Cawdor, Glamis, all. And I fear thou play'st most foully for 't.” we are given in full measure the honesty and nobility of his character. M. C. Mann's Macduff was no gentle or retiting Scottish lord. He was wild and rough, with a bounce and clangour that spoke of vigour and the swiftest challenge, “Strike Heaven on theMay, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN ul face, that it resounds as if it felt with Scotland” he cries to the dispirited Malcolm. Later, we witness his grief in his tragic bereavement swell to scornful vengeance, as he seeks the vile Macbeth With sharpened steel. “Bring this fiend of Scotland and myself. Within my sword’s length set im.” Lennox (S. O. Clegg) brought out the change in Macbeth’s character with ironic clarity. “Some say the earth was feverous and did shake” he comments wryly of the night of Duncan's murder. Later, his suspicion growing, “The gracious Duncan, Marry he was dead. And the right valiant Banquo walked too late.” Finally, with manly resolution, he joins Malcolm and Macduff, to march on Dunsinane that ““A swift blessing may soon return to our suffering country.” Ross (C. J. Parker) imparts his tidings of savage slaughter with “words that would be howled out in the desert ais.” This actor possesses a fine sense of a dramatic situation. Angus (N. J. Wheeler), bearer of the news of Macbeth’s new title; Monteith (R. V. Wells); and Caithness (M. D. Bonner-Thomas) all carrying out the supporting roles of Scottish lords, brought an air of authenticity to the scene. Of Fleance, son of Banquo (A. M. Wilson) we saw little, but he presented the picture of a pleasant youth, quick of manner and fieet of foot. Siward, Earl of Northumberland (P. L. Thomason) made an impressive General of the English Army in his demand “Let us be beaten if we cannot fight.” Young Siward (F. G. Denman), challenging Macbeth with his sword, protests hotly ““The devil himself could not pronounce a title more hateful to mine ear” and falls upon his enemy with Passionate fervour, placing his unpractised steel against that of the older man with touching abandon. The faithful Seyton (M. S. Hollway) fumbled long and realistically with Macbeth’s armour, until acidly bidden to “Bring it after me, [ will not be afraid of death and bane.” The wounded Sergeant (I. Newport) tells the story of the fighting that took place before the play began: “As sparrows eagles or the hare the lion. As cannons overcharged with double cracks.” He was also an engaging exhibitionist as The Porter and hiccuped and raved in a chesty roar that filled Big School without effort. How wise of the famous Will to give some lighter characters, even in his darkest tragedies. Wit abounds in this play, but apart from the Porter's, it is sombre wit that draws no smile. The pronouncement “This place is too cold for hell” brought gusts of heart-felt laughter. B. E. G. Oates gave an impeccable interpretation of The Doctor. His manner was fussy and perplexed as the part required, and his assertion that “Infected minds do to their pillows discharge their secrets . . . More needs she the divine than the physician” was given as a sympathetic and understanding conclusion, but his dingy apparel and tallow skin conveyed the impression of his having one foot in the grave. The Murderers (G. P. Cowell and A. W. Egerton) “Weary with disaster, tugged by fortune” implanted in the watchers a sense of unease and foreboding that swiftly developed into tragic acceptance as they completed their cold-blooded engagement “With twenty trenched gashes on is head.” The Servants and pages moved in and out unobtrusively and with dignity: they gave a sense of change and movement to the scene. C. G. Cutting made a very pleasant and patient Gentlewoman attendant on Lady Macbeth. Her matter-of-fact scuttling in and out was very natural; and her confidences to the Doctor a delight. J. A. Barrett gave an absorbing portrayal of Lady Macheth. We watched her gentleness and charm fall away and callous ambition take command. As she savoured the Weird Sisters’ prophecies in her lord’s letter, ““Glamis thou art, and Cawdor, and shalt be what thou art promised” and made her grim invocation to the spirit of evil, “Come . .. fill me from the crown to toe top-full of direst cruelty” foul iron entered her beauty and presaged “Nature's mischief” and the “dunnest smoke of hell.” She was exciting to listen to, lovely to watch, with graceful movements and restrained gestures. Her sleep-walking was restriced to a few steps on the battlements, but her agonising cries of remorse electrified the air and struck an answering chord in her listeners as the “tapers” flickered fitfully in the darkness. T. R. Ridgeway gave an inspiring interpretation of Macbeth. Tall and of impressive appearance his acting was polished and his fine voice gave conviction to his lines. From his first entreating the Weird Sisters “You imperfect speakers, tell me more,” we watched this undaunted character,12 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL. LXXIII. No. 293 growing bold with “Vaulting ambition” carry out the foul plan until hallucinations occurred and madness threatened. The ghostly dagger scene was tense and moving, the cry—“Is this a dagger which I see before me, Come let me clutch thee”... “I have the not—and yet I see thee,” seemed wrung from his very soul. ‘Once again the costumes were hired from the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre, Stratford-on- ‘Avon, and were, in most instances, an outstanding success. As a fanfare sounds, the King and Queen, resplendent in scarlet and gold, magenta and purple, enter and take their seats for the banquet: the Thanes, entertained as guests, make a lively picture in their gilt-studded and leather- trimmed garments: King Duncan flings wide his crimson cloak to give a warm greeting to his subjects: Lady Macbeth’s draperies and wimple, her almost ethereal gown for her appearance on the battlements: all these and many more made up the canvas from the colours on the palette. The “Witch Music” Overture was composed by Mr. Lumley, who also arranged the resounding fanfares for the trumpets. We never seem to have enough from the School Orchestra, so polished is their performance; and such a far cry from those first attempts for “Much Ado” in 1954 when we joyfully welcomed the change from canned music, ‘The “Noises-off-and-Effects Department” must have had the time of their lives. Not only did “Fire burn and cauldron bubble” but howling gales were hurled from an ingenious “Wind machine,” lightning flashed from an evilly-flickering lamp and thunder was invoked from a fear- some metal sheet hanging nonchalantly on the wall. Buttons were pressed and switches flicked so that the changing shades of night and day couid be arranged without pause. Transmigration from the Scottish to the English scene was managed with the aid of a sliding curtain: left-half, England, right-half, Scotland. It was an irritating expedient, but it conveyed the desired impression of each country. School Carpenter, Mr. J. Edwards, recalls that when the present stage was assembled and curtains made for the first Shakespearian Play in Big School, twenty-five years ago, he guided the curtains back and forth and controlled them with a pair of square, lead weights from a grandfather clock. Previous to this time the Play was given in Dining Hall ‘The scenery for the Scottish scene, with turreted Castle and effective cloud and sky, were provided by the Art Room. The Woodwork Room, in addition to the “Weather Effects”, had combined with the Art Room to make a wonderful, lichen-covered tree with blasted limbs and pointing branches that dominated the landscape on that storm-ridden heath. In spite of the bitter weather and poor attendances, this year's play audiences were given a highly-dramatic and, at (imes, inspired performance. ‘The Producer had imbued into his cast his own deep love of history and the English language. The inflections of tone, the turn of a phrase, the emphasis of a particular word had all been patiently rehearsed and perfection achieved. Some cutting had been carried out, but it was skilfully done and kept to a minimum, so that we followed the full sense of the theme and saw the play as William Shakespeare intended it. Playing a part in such a production is not only a memory test and cultural experience: there comes a day when all that is learned is turned to for comfort or prestige. For the moment, “Tomorrow and tomorrow, and tomorrow” is all, but as the years fly and recollection prompts, Macbeth will be found filed’away “With all our yesterdays.” We warmly congratulate Mr. Howard on his faithful presentation. M. A. CHAPMAN. Rugby Itis impossible to play Rugby Football unless the skills of the game are mastered by consistent practice. Having mastered the skills, no side will ever win on the field unless it is capable of playing up to its limit. This term the XV have shown they will practise and have become more proficient. at the skills, but still too many tries have been missed through dropped passes and given away through missed tackles and mis-kicking. Moreover, the team has not always been able to apply itself to doing its best. Against strong opposition great success came their way, but against weak opposition 15 boys thought they could win without going as hard as possible. There is no doubt that all players in the school can learn these two lessons from a School XV. ne te ee more skilful as it has practised, and more successful as it has apy the skills fon the field.enn enh4 THE ELLESMERIAN Vo. LXXIII. No. 293 Ist XV ELLESMERE y. BIRKENHEAD SCHOOL. Lost 0-20. Away. It was a disadvantage to meet a strong side right at the beginning of the Term when Ellesmere had only been back at School for one week compared with the opponents’ three weeks. So it was not surprising that Birkenhead were the fitter team, and this showed itself strongly in the packs. Against a heavier pack Ellesmere never appeared to push at the right time, while the three-quarters made the usual early season mistakes of passing wildly and too late. Birkenhead were awarded numerous penalties, though only two were converted, and two tries were scored against Ellesmere in each half, only one of which was converted ELLESMERE y. CoTTON CoLtece. Won 9-3. Away. ‘The match was played in a strong wind, though after heavy rain the pitch was firm. The first half was scrappy, neither side making use of the wind, and all the elementary mistakes, in handling, tackling or falling were again revealed. Only in the last twenty minutes of the game was there any score. Cotton converted a penalty, and this roused the Ellesmere pack to get possession of the ball more frequently, while Webster, playing at scrum-half for the first time, co-ordinated well with Abbott. From a passing movement in the three-quarters, and a breakaway by Turpin, Smith scored in the corner, and from a similar movement a few minutes tater, Smith again scored. Neither try was converted. In the last few minutes Bloomfield scored on the right wing. ELLESMERE y. RYDAL SCHOOL. Lost 0-22. Home. ‘A thoroughly disappointing game in every way. Though the pack played more intelligently than previously, frequently gaining possession of the ball in the tight and loose scrums, and out- jumping Rydal in the lines-out, yet the movements frequently broke down in the centre, and little ‘ground was gained by three-quarter movements. Rydal looked the better team all the way through the game, for far more determination was shown by their forwards, while their backs were quicker to pounce on mistakes in handling and take advantage of faulty covering or positioning. It was very obvious that Ellesmere was up against a team that used its intelligence all the time, and though the School side fought hard, tackled well and played better Rugger than earlier in the Term, there could have been only one result to the game. ELLesmers y. H.M.S. Conway. Won [4-3, Home. After the last reverse, and a fortnight without any matches, Ellesmere had improved greatly, both in forward and three-quarter play. For the first half of the game Ellesmere had territorial advantage, and tackling, handling, backing-up and positioning was better than Conway's. Abbott at fly-half always looked dangerous, and Turpin and Doodson in the centre had several breaks which nearly resulted in tries. Of the forwards Baldwin was outstanding in the lines-out, feeding the scrum-half cleanly ait the time. The pack gained possession from tight scrums mainly through well-timed pushing, and Higgins was clearly the better hooker. ‘A notable feature of this game was Smith's kicking for touch, and his speed and handling at full-back, or when he joined in the three-quarter movements. ‘One strange feature of the season's rugger was revealed later on in the Term when H.M.S. Conway beat Rydal ELLESMERE y. Liverroot Couzece. Won 9-8. Home. This was one of the most exciting games to watch of the Term. Until four minutes from the end Ellesmere were 8-6 down, although they had pressed hard for most of the game, monopolising the tight scrums and the lines-out. Only resolute tackling by the Liverpool three-quarters kept Ellesmere from scoring. The game was made difficult by a strong cross-wind, which hindered kicking and passing, though Smith at full-back used the wind well to keep Liverpool on the defensive for most of the game. However, strong three-quarter movements by Liverpool resulted in two tries, one of which was converted. Ellesmere, with twenty minutes to go had scored two tries only, ‘while several Penalty attempts were missed before C. C. Hughes dropped the winning goal to end a dramatic match.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 15 ELLESMERE ¥. LANCASTER ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL. Lost 8-9. Home. This match was also a good one from every point of view. For the first fifteen minutes neither side could gain any advantage, umil the Lancaster fly-half dropped a goal. This roused the Ellesmere forwards to battle harder still, and from a set scrum the ball was heeled cleanly to enable Doodson to score. Smith converted. ‘However, after this Lancaster had more of the game in the forwards, until their full-back fumbled an attempt to gather the ball from a kick, so allowing Smith to pick up cleanly and score, thus bringing the score to 8-3 to Ellesmere. Lancaster scored again, and then in the last minute of the game—in injury time—Lancaster scored in the corner after a poor attempt at a tackle by an Ellesmere forward, so winning the match by one point. ELLesMere y. RUTHIN SCHOOL. Lost 3-11. Away. ‘After the last two matches the Team was probably over-confident, for there was little excuse for the dismal display of rugger that this game offered. The forwards were lethargic, breaking too siowly or holding on to the ball far too long: the three-quarters made similar errors, and appeared to have lost all penetrative attack. Ruthin, on the other hand, siezed their opportunities in the game, when theit outside centre ran strongly through a disorganised defence to score twice, one try of which was converted. Well-beaten from the start in tactical skill and determination, Ellesmere could only reply by poor kicking into touch. One penalty was scored when a Ruthin forward was off-side, though an earlier penalty under the posts was missed. In the closing minutes of the game the Ruthin captain, at wing-forward, from a well-controlled dribble round the blind side of the scrum, beat two feeble attempts to fall on the ball and scored in the corner. ELtesmerE ¥. KiNna’s ScHoo, Worcrster. Won 10-3. Home. Though the match was won quite convincingly, and there were more good features to this game, especially from the lines-out and three-quarters, it was a disappointing game to watch. The service from the scrum was ragged mainly because the ball was seldom heeled cleanly, and thus Lager at scrum-half was harried by the opposing wing-forwards. The three-quarters, therefore, had fewer opportunities than usual. Doodson at centre made several breaks through the defence, one of which enabled Bloomfield to score in the corner. This was converted by Smith. ‘A few minutes after this Bloomfield was penalised for holding on to the ball after a tackle, and the penalty awarded was converted, bringing the score to 5-3. Near the end of the match, Smith, full-back, came into the three-quarter line to score in the corner: this try he also converted. Tackling and falling throughout the game was poor, and only good fortune prevented Elles- mere from having more points against them. ELtesmere y. WREKIN COLLEGE. Lost 312. Away. This match against our closest rivals is always regarded as the key match of the season, and for the first twenty minutes Ellesmere dominated the game, pressing Wrekin into their twenty-five for most of the time. One early penalty was missed, though Smith converted a very long one. With the score at 3-0 to Ellesmere, Wrekin gradually fought to a lead. In the lines-out and set scums they out-jumped and out-heeled Ellesmere, enabling their outside centre to score twice before half-time. In the second half the same centre scored again, running strongly through the whole of the defence, which appeared to be on the wrong foot all the time against a cleverly side-stepping runner. When an Ellesmere centre was offside under his posts, the score was brought to 3-12 to irekin. Before the end of the game Abbott at fly-half dummied his way over the Wrekin line, but was revented from grounding the ball, and this was the only time that there appeared any opportunity of scoring. ELLesMERE y. ADAMS GRAMMAR Scoot. Lost 5-8. Away. Within five minutes of the start Doodson broke away from his twenty-five and ran strongly through the defence to score under the posts. This try was converted by Smith. Perhaps this try was made to look too easy, or the team grew over-confident, for from this moment the standard of play deteriorated. Adams’ three-quarters saw more of the ball and ran more strongly than Ellesmere; defence against constant attacks was weakening, and soon Adams scored near the16 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL. LXXIII. No. 293 posts. Then a long penalty awarded to Adams resulted in the ball hitting the top of the post; the ball was dropped over the line from an attacking Adams three-quarter; but another movement ‘gave them success, to win 8-5. ELLESMERE v. MERCHANT TAYLORS, Crospy. Lost 3-6. Home. ‘Against a Team that had had an outstanding record for the Term Ellesmere played probably their best game. Over-confidence by Merchant Taylors had its usual result, so that their forwards found themselves beaten frequently in the lines-out and loose mauls by a determined pack. In the set scrums the heavier pack of Merchant Taylors enabled them to heel the ball more frequently. Their three-quarters were prevented many times from scoring when they were tackled just short of the line. At half-time the score was 3-3, and for most of the second half both sides probed and fought for an opening, though neither side looked like scoring. However, a few minutes from the end, Merchant Taylors’ fly-half dropped a goal, and this was the last score in a tense and well-fought match. ELLESMERE v. BIRKENHEAD Park R.U.F.C. Won 11-3. Home. It is always gratifying to win the last match of the Term, but after the magnificent way in which Ellesmere had fought out the previous match, if they showed the same skill and determination there were few sides that could have withstood them, In the first half the play was mainly in the forwards, and few three-quarter movements were seen on either side. Smith kicked a penalty goal, and just before half-time Doodson scored from a break through, which was also converted by Smith. In the second half Birkenhead scored a penalty goal. The Ellesmere three-quarters saw more of the ball in this half, and though they always looked dangerous, it was not until Smith joined the line just before the end of the game that he was able to outpace all the opposition and score in the corner. The kick at goal failed. IMF. RESULTS *, BIRKENHEAD SCHOOL Losr, 0-20 COTTON COLLEGE Won, 9-3 RypaL ScHoot Losr, 0-22 H.M.S. Conway Won, 14-3 v. LIVERPOOL COLLEGE Won, 9-8 y. LaNcaster R.G.S. Lost, 8-9 v. RUTHIN ScHooL | * Lost, 3-11 y. KinG’s ScHooL, WoRCESTER Won, 10-3 v, WREKIN COLLEGE Losr, 3-12 v. ApaMs’ G'S"... Lost, 5-11 v. MERCHANT TAYLORS" I Losr, 3-6 v. BIRKENHEAD R.U.F.C, Won, 11-3 2np XV ‘The Term has not been an outstanding one in any way, though the Team enjoyed itself in all matches. ‘At times the players rose to the occasion and outfought heavier opponents: sometimes they displayed a dismal lack of rugger sense and even energy. Injuries in the Ist and 2nd XV caused 30 players to play for the 2nd XV during the Term, and it was difficult to build on such unsure and shifting foundations. ‘As has been reported above, unsureness in the basic skills of the game has been the cause of the Team s weakness, and until each player can give accurate passes, and receive them, fall and tackle when required, results will always be disappointnig. To improve these skills should be the aim of all who are playing in Teams, and time spent on these will not be wasted. ‘The three-quarters have only rarely looked dangerous, because of inaccurate passing and gathering: fast wings are useless if they are fed too late. Defence in the three-quarters has always been suspect. and some of the matches made the weakness very clear. However, tackling did improve: Bishton on the left wing was always a potential match-winner by his speed; Mooney is developing strongly as a runner, though he must learn to time his passes more accurately.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 17 Both Story and Lager played valiantly at scrum-half: the former was quicker getting the ball away from the scrum; Lager had a longer pass. The pack, always changing, played with some energy, and under a good leader sometimes dominated the play. With so many players having appeared in the pack this Term, it would be invidious to mention only a few, but Thomas, wing- forward, as pack leader, was tireless in his encouragement and example. J.M.F. RESULTS v, BIRKENHEAD SCHOOL Lost, 5-15 v. Rypat ScHooL in Lost, 6-12 v. H.M.S. Conway + Won, 14-3 v. LIVERPOOL COLLEGE Drawn, 6-6 vy. Warrcuurcn GS... Losr, 5-11 v. LINDISFARNE COLLEGE Lost, 0-3 v. WREKIN COLLEGE Won, 13. v, MERCHANT TAYLORS Losr, 3-41 y. SHREWSBURY COLTS Losr, 3-18 COLTS xv », BIRKENHEAD y. COTTON COLLEGE A. Lost, 10-13 A. Lost, 8-19 vy, RYDAL Ep H. Lost, 0-19 v. H.M.S. Conwav H. Won, 16-8 v. Kino’s, WORCESTER H. Won, 32:3 v. WREKIN . A. Won, 6-0 v, MERCHANT TAYLORS A. Won, 6:3 vy. SHREWSBURY COLTS ... A. Won, 27-0 ‘The season opened, one week after our return to school, with the Birkenhead fixture. Fitness was undoubtedly below peak standard. The issue was in doubt until the final whistle nevertheless, everyone having given of their best, Green in particular bringing off some very fine tackles at full back. ‘The Cotton defeat is inexplicable in the light of later performances and is best forgotten. Rydal produced their usual polished performance, having better and more confident backs. We are looking forward to next term's fixture which should be a bit closer. ‘After this the team went from strength to strength and began to fulfil the promise they showed last season. The pack began to play as a unit under the tireless leadership of Sedgwick, and the backs, following Parker's example, began to run really strongly when in possession and to tackle hard when defending. H.M.S. Conway were overcome in the first half, as the pace slackened off after half time. King’s School, Worcester were shaken by two very quick tries from which they did not recover until late in the second half. A feature of the game was the open play resulting from the wing three-quarters—Tills in patticular—looking inside for support and thus switching the direction of the attack. Roberts, the hooker, sustained a knee injury since when he has not played. Colours were awarded to C. J. Parker, G. H. Sedgwick, A. J. McG. Lunn, and R. J. Brassington. At Wrekin the forwards played a tremendous game in the loose.’ They were outweighted and out pushed in tight scrums but still managed to give the backs more than @ fair share of the ball. Had all the moves been carried through without one of the backs dropping the slippery ball, the result would have been more conclusive. Brassington s handling was particularly good on this occasion. The match at Merchant Taylor's, Crosby, is always expected to be a hard one and this was no exception. Again the pack were beaten in the tight scrums but made up for this in the loose where they fought extremely well. Merchant Taylor's backs looked dangerous when on the move, and our backs gave them too much room to work in at first. However they tightened up as the game progressed. The score was 6-3 at half-time and the second half was tough going, but it was a fair Tesult in the end. Stretton and Laithwaite both had very good games and were awarded colours18 THE ELLESMERIAN Voi. LXXIIL No. 293 immediately after the match. Laithwaite narrowly failed with a penalty from halfway and Stretton was clear away on several occasions only to be pulled back for some infringement. Shrewsbury Colts put up a spirited opposition, but we were rather too strong all round. The following have played for the Colts this term: C. J. Parker (capt.), G. H. Sedgwick (v.-capt,), A. J. Lunn, R. L. Stretton, R. J. Brassington, J. J. Laithwaite, Wake, Raybould, Green, Tills, Williams, Sutcliffe, Loxham, Simpson, Bishton, Cowell and Roberts. EDS UNDER 15 XV ‘The team had a reasonably creditable record in terms of results with only two defeats suffered —the first and last of the terms matches. Patent weaknesses of a fundamental nature must be rectified, not least among them the giving and taking of a pas Tt was too early in the season to expect a victory against Birkenhead, who came to us with considerable match experience behind them, but it was evident that tackling would in future have to be sterner and more determined, and passing more accurate and properly placed in front of the receiver. There was some improvement in the way Conway were held to a draw, in spite of ‘Swinn limping on the wing, Higgins movement restricted (he kicked two penalty goals), and Patterson removed from the field with a fractured forearm. Stuttart, at stand-off, realized the incapacity of the rearranged three-quarter line and kicked intelligently and lengthily to touch, keeping play in the Conway end. Grove Park left us with a pointless draw. Although the forwards played lustily in the loose and gained possession frequently in the tight, the backs’ passes more often than not went awry. They were too flat in attack, often due to slow service from the halves, and were not accelerating on receiving. Against Whitchurch, Swinn was transferred to full back, Robinson came in at centre and Lever at scrum half. Everyone was quick to capitalize on the mistakes of the opposition and for the first time the three-quarters produced some scoring move- ments. The tackling was admirable. It was good to see both feet off the ground. Bamford and Preece figured prominently in forward rushes. The pack played stoutly in the Ruthin game pe forming two wheels on the opponents line, falling en masse on the ball for a try. Once again the threes lapsed with wildly thrown passes and indecisive running. The wheel manoeuvre was repeated at Adams G.S. but the forwards were slow to pack down in the loose; however, the taking was fiery with Parry and Nagele well in the van. It was unfortunate that Adams G.S. lost a man in the first two minutes of play. Defeat of Wrekin came unexpectedly. The threes were running and handling with more assurance, but slowing as they gave and received a pass. Cooper missed a try by attempting to go for the posts and colliding with covering forwards instead of taking the open route to the corner flag. He made amends by scoring later and Hamar pounced and touched down an in-goal error by Wrekin. The final game was rather like the first. Lever was off with appendicitis and Moss, at full back, played as a last-minute substitute. After five minutes spent in the opponents half, a penalty goal rattled the team which slumped to a 0-20 defeat by a side better in every department of play. Although tackling improved tremendously throughout the term, handling and passing were generally weak, and running from centres unimaginative. The service from the scrum was slow, with the back row sluggish with the ball in a mid-field attacking position. The forwards, often surpassing in taking, frequently hacked the ball through to the opposing scrum-half when stopped. FSG. : UNDER 14 XV This has not been a very successful term for the Under 14 yeam. Once again, we found only ‘one player from last year's clubside left, and were obliged to meet experienced teams while our ‘own knowledge and skill were still rudimentary. As a result we suffered some heavy defeats; ‘our one victory was against Grove Park. Much, therefore, remains to be done and we very much hope that the weather next term will Permit the constant practice in basic skills that must come before an improvement will be shown. The following represented the school during the term:—Ashley, I. H. G.; Ashworth, J. R. H. Baker (iii), J. P.; Davidson, C.; Davies (i), G. L.; Griffiths, I. C.; Walton (iii), F. R.; Shaw, C. $. (Capt.); Horspool, I. G.; Spink, P. L.; Wady, C. P. S.; Cutting, S. G.; Laing (ii), P. M. N. Willcock (ii), M. St. K. D.; Leggett, C. J. REB.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 19 Junior House Soccer Ist XI Away PAcKWoop HAuGH ... 0 6 Lost Away — PRESTFELDE 1 4 Lost ‘Away KING'S, CHESTER... 0 2 Lost Away — Cuorr ScHoot, CuesTER 3.4 Lost Home — MLLMEDE ; 3.1 Won Away Oswestry G.S. 2.0 Won Home — PRESTFELDE © 0 Drawn Home — Oswestry G.S. 11 Drawn Away — MILLMEDE 10 Won Home — PacKwooo HAvGH ... 2.0. Won Home — Cuok Scuoot, CHESTER 7 0 Won Goals Goals Played Won Drawn Lost — For Against I 5 2 4 20 18 This has been a most remarkable season for the Junior School Soccer team. After losing the first four matches heavily, and looking a very ragged company in the process, five positional changes were made, and the team suddenly clicked. ‘The result was that of the last seven matches five were won and two drawn, and in complete contrast to the early games the team looked a most capable one. This was principally due to 2 tightening of the defence, which, after being penetrated with consummate ease by the opposition in the first games, only gave two goals away in the last seven matches. Also in the forwards Boyle suddenly found his shooting boots, and produced eleven goals, including two “hat-tricks”. The highlights of a successful season’ were the defeat of Packwood Haugh after six years, and the well-earned away successes at Millmede and Oswestry, for the first time. While it was essentially a team success, particularly in defence, mention must be made of Boyle, a clever forward and good Captain; Hulmes, a most industrious and hard tackling half back, and Openshaw, a first rate goalkeeper who saved us on many occasions. Colours were awarded to R. Boyle, J. S. Openshaw, J. H. Clay, M. Brereton, M. D. A. Dawe, and H. V. Cornwell. JS.K. C.C.F. Notes It was with considerable regret that the unit heard of the impending departure of Lieut. G. B. G. Lawson. This will affect many sections of school life, not the least of them the C.C.F. Mr. Lawson has served us well in very many ways. His cheerfulness and charm, his loyalty and enthusiasm, his concern for the individual as well as the platoon, were attributes which endeared him. to us and which will be sorely missed. We wish him well at Malvern. We were also sorry to hear that Miss Holford is leaving. She has made sure that we have not starved on Field Days, and her advice and assistance in preparation for camps has been of the Breatest help to us. Remembrance ‘Sunday was observed in the customary manner. At 11.0 am. a service, conducted by the Reverend R. R. Walker, was held in antechapel. The wreath was laid by C.S.M. Clarke and the calls were excellently sounded by the buglers. In the afternoon the band and senior platoons marched to Ellesmere and took part in the processions to and from the Parish Church. The Service was conducted by the Vicar, Rev. N. A. Fenn, assisted by the Headmaster and the Ministers of the Non-Conformist Churches. The salute at the march past was taken by Colonel J. R. Kynaston, D.S.0., M.C. Once again the band, and in particular Mr. Eeles, are to be congratulated on their performance. It is worthy of note that we were able ta spare two buglers to sound the Last Post and Reveille at the service at Hanmer. For Field Day training this term we were able to obtain the use of the Moel y Parc training area, whose only fault was its distance from school. A good battle was had by all and the weather was kind to us.20 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL. LXXIIL. No. 293 On the examination front the Proficiency Certificate platoon of 27 candidates produced results which rather shook their leaders, Mr. Sidebottom, C.S.M. Leadbetter, Cpls. Moreton and Turpin and L./Cpl. Mott, and probably had a somewhat similar effect on the Board . . .24 Credits and 3 Passes. Colonel F. M. de Butts, the Commander of the Light Infantry Brigade, paid us a visit and saw an afternoon of training. He is anxious to be of assistance to us in whatever way he can, and, when present alterations at Shrewsbury are complete, this assistance will undoubtedly be considerable. The Doctor has once again taken on the responsibility of a First Aid Class, preparing for the St, John’s Certificate in March. Dr. Samson’s willingness to sacrifice his limited spare time for this purpose deserves our thanks. ‘A reconnaissance of the Brecon area has now been carried out in preparation for the Arduous Training camp to be held in April. The prospects are good. V.LH. Senior Scouts At the beginning of the term, as usual, there were more applications from the Junior Troop than we could accept, but eventually it was possible to find room for four keen would-be Seniors. H. B. Birch was appointed Actg. T/L., and F. G. Parrott and R. W. Story became Patrol Leaders. A certain amount of effort had to be spent preparing for Remembrance Sunday, but we have spent the minimum time possible on formal drill. At other times we have tried out an obstacle course, have done a cross-country map-reading scheme, which led inevitably towards the can we have had a field day on the Llantisilio mountain, and, of course, have trained an hose party. At the end of the term, we assisted in moving all the Scout gear to fresh accommodation, so that plans for the development of the Crypt for other uses could go on unhindered. In conclusion, all the Senior Scouts hope that Mr. Ainscow, who has this term become S.M. of the Junior Troop, will much enjoy holding that appointment, and they look forward to helping him in every way possible. S.C. Scouts ‘This term has seen several changes. Mr. Chapman, who has run the Junior Troop for over thirty years, now, as G.S.M., has Mr. Ainscow to help. He, in turn has four Senior Scouts, kindly seconded by the Chapiain, to help with the more technical aspects of the weekly meetings. Their work has been invaluable in this respect. ‘Towards the end of term we moved from our room in Crypt Two to quarters kindly vacated for us by the C.C.F. On Saturday, 21st October the P.L.’s went to Shrewsbury to hear the Chief Scout speak, and on Sunday, 12th November, the Troop took part in the usual parade to the Armistice Day Service at the Parish Church. The Troop now numbers 25, one fifth of whom are new entrants this term. Much Badge Work has been done, and the Wolves are at the moment leading in the Patrol Competition. N.RA- School Music The first musical event of the term gives a taste, we hope. of good things to come in the future. On the evening of Sunday, 15th October, the Listerers’ Society welcomed all who would come (this included many visitors from Ellesmere, whom we were delighted to sec) to an Open Concert in Big School. This was given by Mitzi Lawton (piano) and Herbert Jones (Tenor). The piano music was in two groups—music by Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Chopin in the first, and the “moderns”, Ibert, Bartok, Julius Harrison, Cyril Scott and Manuel da Falla in the second. The first group of songs was of operatic arias by Bizert and Donizetti, and the second one of ballads by English composers. As a centre-piece to the programme the Ellesmere Singers sang part-songs by Quilter, C. S. Lang—and three “inevitable” G.B.G.L. “arrangements”. ‘These singers have never been heard to better advantage; perhaps they Were aware that it was ¢heir last occasionMay, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 21 with “G.B.G.L.” conducting them; whatever it was, may it be said that their contribution to the programme was of as high an order as the other soloists. ‘The autumnal School Concert was held on 25th November in Big School. It looked impressive to be able to muster on the platform an orchestra of 32, and it is truthful to say, I think, that all played in time and in tune! Those who had heard the orchestra in its formative stages over the past few years were kind enough to say that it was their best performance. Certainly their playing of music by Jeremiah Clarke, Mozart and Handel was quite competent. D. N. Clay, H. B. Birch and R. J. Reeves each sang to Mr. Lawson’s pianoforte accompaniment, and R. T. H. Williams (violin), R. J. Cox (flute), E. A. Crutchfield (clarinet) and P. I, Bishton (clarinet) proved themselves most acceptable and capable solo instrumentalists. “Team” efforts were two movements from Purcell’s Golden Sonata played by A. J. H. Roberts and J. R. Russell (violins), one of Bach s three-part Inventions played on three clarinets by E. A. Crutchfield, P. R. Hirtenstein and R. P. Hartley, and a two-part treble choir singing Handel's 0 lovely peace with S. R. Clarke and R. J. Cox providing flute obligati. R. P. Hirtenstein played the solo part in two movements from an early piano concerto by Haydn, and was supported by the strings, flutes and horns of the orchestra. All performers in this should be congratulated on the success of this fairly ambitious, venture. J. W. Naylor “brought the house down” with his trumpeting in Leroy Anderson's Bugler's holiday —a breathtaking performance, in every sense of the word; and a select group of instrumentalists gilded the pill of listening with their "made to measure” version of Ronald Binge’s Elizabethan Serenade. Nor must it be forgotten that in all the orchestral parts of the programme we were joined by Mrs. Beer playing ’cello—a pleasure to which we look forward on (we hope) many future occasions. The programme concluded with Mr. Lawson conducting the tenors and basses of the Choral Society, J. A. Smith singing the baritone solos, in Stanford's Songs of the Sea, and Mr, Britton and Mr. Lumley providing the wo-piano accompaniment. ‘Three excursions were made to hear music beyond the bounds of the College—first, accom- panied by Mr. Lawson and Mr. Lumley, 8 sixth-formers went to hear a programme of String Quartets given at Attingham Park by the Allegri String Quartet on 19th October. Then on 16th November, four of the College clarinettists were able to attend the Shrewsbury Orchestral Society's Concert to hear (amongst other things) the eminent clarinetist Gervase de Peyer play the Mozart Clarinet Concerto and Webes’s Concertino. Finally on December 2nd, a number of the Choir, accompanied by the Headmaster and Mrs. Beet went to hear a_most enjoyable performance of Handel’s Messiah sung by the Ellesmere Choral Society in Ellesmere Parish Church. “Afterwards they were most kindly entertained by Mr. and Mrs. ‘Nankivell at theit jome. ‘A small growp of wind players provided most effective music for the Shakespearian Society's performance of Macbeth. The trumpet fanfares played by J. W. Naylor and T. S. Metcalfe were performed impeccably. ‘At the December Examination of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music the following were successful: Piano — Grade 4: M. G. Mann; Grade 3: C. G. Cutting Grade 2: C.J. Parker; S. G. Cutting Grade 1: S. GC, M. Jones; 5. G. Dangerfield. Violin — Grade 3: R. T. H. Williams, with Merit Clarinet — Grade 5: E. A. Crutchfield. French Horn — Grade 5: 8. 0. Clegg. Theory — Grade 5: R. W. Baxter (97%). ‘And now Mc. Lawson has left us in order to take up @ responsible position on the Music Staff of Malvern College. In the five years he has been with us here at Ellesmere his great gifts of musicianship and his lively mind could not help impress themselves on all. In particular, many pianists, the Ellesmere Singers and the Listener's Society have cause to be grateful tor his ministrations. There is no department of our music with which he did not at some time come into contact—he appeared as composer, performer and conductor with equal ease. As an organiser. especially of the expanded House Music Competition, he was invaluable. In the Common Room, too, his good spirits were no less apparent: as a colleague, he was delightful to work with. We shail all miss his breezy personality and good humour. He is assured that our good wishes for his future success go with him in fullest measure and we are ready to admit that Ellesmere’s loss is Malvern’s gain. RALL.22 THE ELLESMERIAN, VoL. LXXIII. No. 293 The Seven Club This term six new members joined the Club, Messrs. P. L. Mott, R. A. Ball, G. W. K. Webster, J. M. Nickson, T. Nayer-Mouri and S. O. Clegg. P. L. Mote was elected secretary. ‘The Club met three times during the term. The Rev. J.D. Mathias-Jones, O.E., gave a talk on “Christmas Island”, and Dr. Edwards, O.E., read a paper on Kenya, At the last meeting of the term E. T. D. Leadbeater read a paper entitled “Man”. This term we say goodbye to M. E. D. Howell who has done a great deal for the Club in many ways. We must again thank Mr. Howard for the use of his room for our meetings. PLM. The Ellesmerian Society At the business meeting on Saturday, September 30th, Mr. E. T. D. Leadbeater was elected Vice-President, Mr. J. M. Nickson, Secretary, Mr. R. D. Clarke, Assistant Secretary and Treasurer, and Messrs. M. E. D. Howell, R. A. Ball’ and P. L. Mott, Members of Committee. Mr. T. Nayer-Nouri agreed to complete his second term of office as a Committee Member. The President, in his customary initial address, welcomed a)} new. members and urged everyone to give of their very best in order that the Society might thrive throughout the 1961-62 session. ‘On October 7th, the Chaplain introduced a film entitled The Song of Ceylon. He traced the gradual development of the film industry, spoke of its present advantages and of the importance of the documentary, and then invited us'to appreciate his choice. We were pleased to welcome an Old Ellesmerian, the Rev. Richard Eckersley, at the meeting of October 14th, who was to give a lecture entitled “A priest at work in a dockyard town, Portsmouth was the town in question and, with the aid of several colourful slides, he admirably described its situation, its industries, and its problems. Before the first formal debate of the session was allowed to commence on October 2Ist, the geremony of the Society's newly acquired mace, presented by Mr. Rhodes, had to take place. The evening’s motion was “That, in the opinion of this House, modern painters, poets and mus- icians are undisciplined fakes”. Opening for the Proposition, Mr. P. L. Matt described modern stic taste as “Impressionism taken to its farthest and most ridiculous extreme"—devoid of all skill, form or beauty. Mr. M. E. D. Howell, for the opposition, ably distinguished between a Modern artist and a modern fake and afterwards outlined the admirable qualities of the former. Speaking almost entirely of music, Mr. S. R. Clarke stressed the carefree, Undisciplined nature of Modern composition. Seconding for the opposition, Mr. B. E. G. Oates condemned the modern Public for its lack of appreciation of modern clever originality. The motion was defeated by 84 votes to 4. For the meeting of October 28th, Mr. Martin Gibson gave a lecture entitled “Steel—its part in Britain's economy". He not only gave the Society a comprehensive outline of the steel industry, but also showed a film of steel production from the ore stage to the finished product. In a combined music and art evening on November 4th, Mr. R. A. Ball spoke of the life and work of the renowned Michelangelo Buinarroti, while Mr. M. E. D. Howell described the splendour of surrealism. Rossini filled the interludes, and a film entitled Running, Jumping and ‘Standing Still, starring Peter Sellers and Spike Milligan, completed a most entertaining programme. 32 members of the Society visited the Playhouse Theatre, Liverpool on November 1th t0 see what proved to be a most rewarding performance of R. B. Sheridan's School for Scandal. Mr. P. L. Mott entertained us with R. C. Sheriff's play A Shred of Evidence on November 18h, ‘The cast was as follow: LAURA MEDWAY 3. A, Barrett RICHARD MeDway M.S. Oliver PAMELA Mepway ... .. J. R. Cave-Rogers Joun CARTWRIGHT « P.R, Hirtenstein A PoLice INsPECTOR MC. Mann ‘Tom Foster... P.L. Mott Mr. Bennett... SR. Clarke Mars. BENNETT S. O. CleggMay, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 23 The readers must be congratulated on completing a difficult task successfully. Four members of Wrekin Coliege Debating Society were our guests for the final debate of the term on 2nd December—Messrs. A. H. Gates, C. K. G. Rowe, J. G. Turner and W. R. M. Steele. The motion was “That in the opinion of this House there is no room for Idealism in the twentieth century”. Mr. M. E. D. Howell, opening for the Proposition, entreated the Society to beware of idealists for, in their strivings after perfection, they caused much unnecessary suffering. In opposition for Wrekin, Mr. A. H. Gates firmly believed that ideals were the basis of progress, without which existence would be absolutely purposeless. Seconding for Ellesmere, Mr. R. A. Ball could only foresee disaster in Idealism and future advancement. In reply, Mr. J. G. Turner asked the Society why the twentieth century should wish to be devoid of ideals if all our pre- decessors had found them necessary. When put to the vote the motion was defeated by 91 votes to 3. Thus a new venture, namely an inter-school debate, was extremely successful. Messrs. Howell, Leadbeater and Ball entertained us with a review of “The Post-War Years” ‘on December 9th. ‘Together they outlined the ways in which Britain had degenerated since the last world war: in her industry, her politics, her economy, and all her artistic inclinations she had undoubtedly declined. The final meeting of the term, conducted by Mr. G. B. G. Lawson was entitled “An Alpine Evening”. With the aid of films, slides, photographs and folk music, he spoke of the splendour of Switzerland and Austria. Although everyone enjoyed the programme, it was of special interest to those hoping to visit these countries during the holidays. At the end of term we say goodbye to one of our Vice-Presidents, Mr. G. B. G. Lawson, and also to Mr. M. E. D. Howell, a Member of Committee. We wish’ them both every success in the future and sincerely thank them for their worthy contributions to the Society. J.M.N. Thespians This term, G. Webster became Secretary, and we have read two plays. The first was Juno and the Paycock, for which we were delighted to welcome the Rev. R. R. Walker, who set a standard which, for national reasons, the other readers could hatdly emulate The second reading, which took place in the comfort of the Vice-President’s room, was of The Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Various attempts, more of less (some very much less) successful, at reproducing the accents of the original were made, but about half-way through it was proposed, seconded, and carried, that the reading cease. The subject-matter proved so distasteful, and the emotional range required was so great, that there was only slight enthusiasm for continuing. We did however, continue to enjoy the hospitality of Mr. Ainscow’s room. sc The Aeronautical Club This term the Club has been a little unsettled; but, through a granted request from Rev. R. A, Evans-Prosser last term, the Club has been permitted to build boats, in which the Club has flourished this term. Much sailing activity has been successfully accomplished on the local Ellesmere Canal. K. A. Wilson has given great amusement with his lively “Sea Nymph”, while on the sailing side A. J. N. Collis has produced a real “G.P.14” and “Silhouette”, of which the latter has given several satisfactory sailing afternoons on the gusty canal. On the aircraft side of the Club this term, a competition has been organised, which was easily won by B. Aukett with his stunt and combat models “Spectre” and "Peacemaker". Runner-up was M. D. Willcock with his free-Right contest model “Gaucho”. As very few members had any completed models, only two members entered the Headmaster’s Hobbies Competition, in which K. A. Wilson won a 5/- prize with a very neatly-built speed boat. ‘Next term there will be several vacant spaces through a few members leaving, and we hope they will be filled by enthusiastic modellers from the new House Hobbies’ rooms. AJ.N.C,24 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL. LXXIII. No. 293 The Young Farmers’ Club During the term the Club has met on a number of Sunday evenings. The first meeting of the season was a business meeting at which a number of vacancies had to be filled. The vacancies were filled thus: Secretary, Mr. E. A. Crutchfield; Assistant Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. K. J. Mills; Committee Members, Messrs. J. A. Barrett, J. A. E. Major and F. G. Parrott. The Chairman is Mr. J. H. Pritchard. For the rest of the meeting suggestions were taken for places of interest which the Club could visit. The following meeting was in the form of “Aay Questions”. This aroused the interest of a number of members and a very interesting evening was had by all. The third meeting was addressed by a Mr. Pryce about his trip to Canada earlier on this year. Mr. Pryce described, with the aid of many beautiful slides, what farming techniques were used in various parts of Canada around the Great Lakes’ Lowlands. He visited in all about fourteen various farms as Well as an agricultural college during the three months he was in Canada. When he was not working, he used to visit places of historical interest as well as go to dances. ‘Onall of the farms which he had visited, he had been given a great variety of jobs. These ranged from picking fruit and weeding to driving a lorry. Mr. Pryce commented om the way in which the state of farms was maintained; some were extremely well kept, while others were not so in- spiring. The lecture ended by his saying how much he had enjoyed the trip. The next meeting was another lecture, this time given by Mr. and Mrs. Hordern about Guernsey Cattle. There was a film shown first about the breed, describing how they were bred and showing some of zhe climates in which they could survive quite comfortably. After the film had been shown, Mr. and Mrs. Hordern gave a short talk, and then answered questions put to them by members of the floor. The evening appeared to be a very interesting one as well as being instructive. ‘The last meeting of the term consisted of the showing of three films, “Man against Insect”, “Sterility in Dairy Cattle”, and “Harvest from the Skies”. The first described how man fought against harmful insects with powerful insecticides. The next film, “Sterility in Dairy Cattle”, showed us how a farmer's herd was deteriorating owing to widespread and increasing sterility. The film then showed what the causes were and how sterility could be prevented and cured. The last film, “Harvest from the Skies”, described how the I.C.1. factory at Billingham was begun and what it’ produces today. The products manufactured by this factory include fertilizers, refrigerators, syathetic petrol, plasterboard, and materials for plastics. As well as meetings this term, there have been two outings. The first place which the club visited on Wednesday, 8th November, was the Allscott Beet Sugar Factory near Wellington We were shown over the whole factory from where the sugar beet entered the factory in lorries or railway wagons to where the sugar crystals were bagged ready for marketing. The tour of the factory proved a very worthwhile experience. The second outing took place on Wednesday, 22nd November, and this was an inspection of Mr. Latham’s farm at Overton-on-Dee. This was also a very interesting afternoon, the club being shown over the whole farm. This term has been a good one and we hope that the young farmers have gained some useful knowledge of the agricultural world. EAC. Stamp Club This term has proved to have been a very interesting and instructive one indeed for the Society. Amongst our acti there has been a visit to the Post Office at Welshpool where we all spent a very enjoyable afternoon. We were also visited by a small party of boys from Shrewsbury School one Sunday evening in December, when a series of smaif fecturettes were given. Mr. Hall, our Vice-President, also attended one of our meetings this term when he exhibited, and talked about, his Canadian collection. Thanks are due to all those members who contributed to our meetings this term, especially to the Committee:—Mr. N. R. Ainscow, the President, S. O. Clegg, the Chairman, P. H. Moore, R. A. Preece, A. Richards, and B. E. G. Oates. It is hoped that next term will prove to be as successful as this on: our hobby of hobbies. LEC.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 25 Sailing Club Six useful days’ sailing were enjoyed this term by some dozen members of the Club. "Wome sawa", “Xara” and the Club Cadet were in full commission, and our last sailing day of the season was November ist. Most members gave some valuable assistance with the Shropshire S.C.'s working parties—including some re-shaping of the foreshore and approaches to the main jetty. __ Towards the end of term, a most interesting film on the basic principles of sailing was shown in the Lecture Room to members and to visitors, who were very welcome. We are indebted to Bayat for his initiative and perseverance in securing this film; also to Mr. D’Aubyn for the loan ‘of the projector, and to Thomason and Turpin for operating it. Collis, A. J.’N. was appointed Secretary at the beginning of the term. The Shropshire S.C. have asked us to re-paint the Nissen hut. This, together with a considerable amount of main- tenance work on “Wometawa”, will keep us active most of next term. LEK. The Ellesmere Jazz Band With the commencement of this term the first Ellesmere Jazz Bsnd has blossomed into ex- istence. The band consists of: J. W, Naylor (Trumpet), P. H. Moore (Trombone), P. Bishton (Clarinet), P. R. Hirtenstein (Piano), M. Eeles, Esq. (Bass), T. G. N. Green (Drums and effects). Although there is no recognised founder of our Band it is generally agreed that it was one of the above. We hope that our services will be put to good use during this school year. P.H.M. German Youth Hostel Tour AUGUST 24th—SEPTEMBER 4th ‘On Thursday, August 24th, the party of 26 met at Victoria Station. On the way to Dover it started to rain, but stopped as soon as we arrived in Belgium. The crossing was uneventful, and, when we docked at Ostend, the one thing everyone noticed was a gendarme standing on the quay. He was about 6 ft. 6 ins. tall, and had a gun and an 18-inch truncheon strapped to his waist. 1 don't think anyone felt like causing trouble with him around! "After looking round Ostend, we caught a train to Bruges—the first of the five places where we were to stay. At Bruges we had a “short” walk to the hostel; as it happened, it was a very Tong walk, but we got used to walking as the holiday went on. The hostel was very new, and we all had an enjoyable night there admiring the floodlit canals and the quaint Flemish architecture. The next day we returned to the station, this time by bus, and departed for Bad Godesberg on the Rhine. We had to change trains at Cologne where we spent an hour visiting the cathedral which we all found very impressive. On arrival at Bad Godesberg we were joined by Mr. McEach- ran, a master from Shrewsbury School, who soon became “one of the group” and accompanied us for the rest of the tour. He was a constant source of never-failing good humour, and we were all sorry to say farewell to him at the end of the trip, ‘The Godesberg hostel was on a hill, and the view from it was very beautiful. There our leaders, remembering a previous tour, renewed their acquaintance with the ““Hausmutter”, the lady in charge, “Frau Sorge”, a keen musician who organized for our benefits a small choir of girls every morning and evening. These stationed themselves unobtrusively on the stairs, and we were lulled to sleep and awoke to the sound of their voices singing a “Volkslied”! We spent three days there. First, we went to the top of the Drachenfels mountain, crossing the Rhine for the first time. ‘The following day, Sunday, we all went on an excursion to Marialaach where there isa large monastery. There we had a picnic lunch by the lake, and afterwards visited the monastery. Stopping on the way ta Marialaach, we were shown over a wine-cellar, where we all got a free drink after having paid to enter! ‘On Monday we boarded the luxury Rhine steamer Deutschland and went all the way up-river to Koblenz, from where we caught a local train to Brodenbach on the Moselle, our next resting- place. The hostel here lay nestling half-way up a well-wooded crag, and a more peaceful and26 THE ELLESMERIAN VoL. LXXIII. No. 293 “Running Repairs” somewhere between BRODENBACH and Boprarb . idyllic spot it would be hard to imagine. To the haunting lilt of guitars we sat enraptured by the nostalgic folk-songs sung by some of the German boys and girls in the little yard in front of the building. With them we were soon great friends. While at Brodenbach we went to Trier where we saw the Roman baths, a Protestant church dating from Roman times, and the Amphi- theatre—all very interesting. On Wednesday we had a terrific shock. We were told we were going to walk to Boppard on the Rhine, 25 kilometres away. In spite of the distance we all enjoyed the walk because we stopped from time to time for cooling drinks ‘‘on the house” at the numerous rustic cafes with which Germany seems to abound. At Boppard we met a large party of English girls who added to our fun. At the hostel we found some of our German friends from Brodenbach too. On Thursday afternoon we crossed the Rhine to have a swim in a rather small swimming- was cool and most enjoyable. The next day we caught the train to Heidelberg. The hostel was a very modern one, and standards generally seemed higher there. On Saturday morning some of us went to the Student Prison and the castle where we heard a choir front Berne give an impromptu and unforgettable performance. On Sunday we went on a long excursion through the Odenwald. On the way weMay, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 27 stopped at Amorbach where there is a beautiful rococo church, and then visited a travelling fair where we soon spent some of our last pfennings. After a round of the Heidelberg shops on Monday morning, we caught the train back to England. Almost asleep, we dragged ourselves onto the boat at midnight, arriving at Victoria at 7.0 a.m. tired but happy. The weather throughout the trip was glorious—hot, baking sun every single day. Our thanks are due to Mr. Ainscow for organizing and leading the tour, as also to Mr. England and Mr. Walker, who acted as our constant guides and guards, husbanding our pocket-money for us and doling out, when required, “medicine to heal our sickness”. cap.28 THE ELLESMERIAN Vou. LXXIIL. No. 293 EASTER TERM, 1962 School Notes On the evening of Monday, January 22nd, the day before term commenced, the Parish Church held their Christian Stewardship Campaign Dinner in the Dining Hall—at the invitation of the Headmaster. yee ‘The Violets Day Room and the “Prop’” Room have now become the Masters’ Common Room, and the Violets have a new home in the first two rooms in Crypt. The old Crypt I has been fitted with carols, and is for the use of the Seniors. Eight members of the Ellesmere Urban District Council lunched at High Table on Tuesday, February 20th. They were most popular visitors, as the Chairman requested a half holiday which we had the same afternoon. . The Senior School attended Evensong in the Parish Church of St. Mary on Sunday, February 25th. The Vicar preached. tae ‘Owing to the number of boys suffering from “throats”, or recuperating, the Steeplechases and the seven--side House Matches were cancelled. In the Senior House Rugger, Wakeman beat Talbot 11-0, and Meynell defeated Woodard 12-0. The final resulted in a draw 0-0. In the Junior matches Talbot beat Wakeman 17-0, and Meynell were the victors against Woodard 12-0. The final was cancelled. The Adjudicator at the House Music Competition on March 30th was Mr. D. Clare, Director of Music at Stonyhurst College. Both the Instrumental and Vocal cups were won by Talbot. It was only decided finally to hold the competition at all on the previous Sunday as so many were still “throaty”. toe ‘The O.E. Rugger Match on Saturday, March 31st, was won by the Old Boys, 6-3. As always it was pleasant to see old faces once more, It was hoped to include in this issue a photograph of the oil painting—now in the Dining Hall—of the last Headmaster. Messrs. Sutterby and Sidebottom spent one afternoon positioning and photographing it, but the result of their labours was not up to their high standard, House Notes MEYNELL JA, Smith D. R, Abbott G. W. K. Webster F. P. Hodgkinson, M. G. Harris, H. D. Tawawala Captain of House... Vice-Captain of House School Prefect House Prefects Captain of Juniors... P. J. Hodgkinson Junior House Colours iP. J. Hodgkinson, K. Goodarzi, D. J. Harris ‘The cancelling of the Steeplechases was much of a disappointment to us, for we had expected good resuits in both the Senior and Junior events. However, both our House Rugby teams fought valiantly and, in spite of the unfortunate absence of some of our best players, we remained unbeaten, and in each case won half the Inter-House Rugby Cup.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 29 In the Inter-House Music Competition, we were second at the end of both the Instrumental and Vocal Parts, yet our Instrumental Ensemble was the best; this was comprised of: R. W. Baxter, piano; D. N. Clay, A. J. H. Roberts, R. T. Williams, violins; P. I. Bishton, clarinet; D. J. Hall, oboe; I. H. G. Ashley, J. M. Charnley, trumpets. Particularly outstanding in their strumental solos were R. W. Baxter, P. I. Bishton, R. T. Williams. This term we have three members leaving us—R. W. Orme, J. D. Cooke, R. Swindells—and we wish them all the best of luck for the future. R.W.0. TALBOT E.T. D, Leadbeater R. J. Reeves, S. R. Clarke, P. L. Thomason, A. D. Bunting E. T. D. Leadbeater, R. J. Reeves, S. R. Clarke Captain of House House Prefects Senior House Colours Captain of Rugger Captain of Squash Captain of House Music P. L. Thomason A. D. Bunting S. R. Clarke All through this term the sickroom has been crowded and the House has very rarely been at its full strength. Despite this disadvantage we have done very well. The most outstanding success was in the House Music where we managed to win both the lastrumental and the Vocal cups. For this effort all those who took part must be congratulated, but special thanks must go to S. R. Clarke who organised and co-ordinated the whole thing with such success. ‘The plague struck the rugger, In the Senior game we lost to Wakeman, but reached the final with our hefty Junior side. Owing to the depleted numbers of both sides the finals were never played and we share the Junior rugeer cup with Meynell. ‘Again, in the Squash the cup was never decided. Thanks to the efforts of our squash team, headed by A. D. Bunting, we also share the Squash Cup, ‘The Steeplechase and House Sevens were both cancelled owing to itiness. At the end of this term S. R. Clarke was awarded his Senior House Colours, which he well deserves, both for his brilliant success in the House Music and his services to the House as a whole. P. L. Thomason is to be thanked for organising the House Rugger. We must congratulate C. T. Winkle on being awarded his Rugby Colours, and A. D. Bunting on being appointed a House Prefect. ‘The Bootroom and Hobbies Room have been painted by the boys; the job took no little length of time, but now that it has been completed we may confidently say it is a job thoroughly done. "This term we lose E. T. D. Leadbeater, whom we shall all be extremely sorry to lose. His vitality will be missed throughout the House and we wish him all success at Bristol. In spite of illness, the term has been quite a successful one and we may look forward to a healthier, warmer, and, we hope, more successful, Summer Term. P.L.M. E. T. D. Leappeater: 1953-62. Captain of School, Captain of House. Entered Junior School 1953, Captain of Football, Captain of Cricket. Colours. House Colours. Head Monitor. Entered Talbot House 1956, Junior House Colours 1958, Senior House Colours 1960, House Prefect 1960. U.14 Rugger 1957, U.S Rugger 1958, U. 14 Cricket 1957, U.15 Cricket 1958. U.16 Cricket 1959, Ist XI 1960. Captain of 2nd XL 1961. Cert “A” Pt. 11958; Cert “A” Pt. II 1959, C.S.M. 1961. Seven Club 1961, Ellesmerian Society 1959-62, ‘Assistant Secretary 1959, Secretary 1960, Vice-President 1961. Shakespearian Society 1958-60. Thespians 1960-62, Secretary of Jazz Club 1961. Librarian 1959-61. III Form Prize 1955. Subject Prizes: Remove 1956; Sheil 1957; Fourth 1958; Fifth Form Prize 1959; Sixth Form History Prize 1961. “O" Level (9) 1959. A" Level (3) 1961.30 THE ELLESMERIAN WAKEMAN R. D. Clarke R. A. Ball J.T. P. Roberts, J. 5. Bloomfield J. M. Nickson, H. R. E. Clarke- Lomas H. R. E. Clarke-Lomas, I. R. Higgins Vor. LXXIIL. No. 293 Captain of House Vice-Captain of House House Prefects Senior House Colours As one member of staff was heard to say—“In all my fifteen years here, we've never had it so bad”, the offensive “it” being the ‘flu that has struck so effectively and so repeatedly with no regard for age or rank, throughout the term, and that won for the weather the role of "dictator of the term’s activities.” Alas, its policy Was a negative one, and several activities had to be cancelled, among them the much-trained-for Steeplechase, in which we had a very reasonable chance of retaining the cup. Other sporting activities that were cancelled were the Junior Fifteen-a-Side Final, where un- fortunately we were not represented, having succumbed to a far heavier Talbot fifteen, the whole of the Seven-a-Side Competition and the newly-dated Shooting Cup. Among the competitions that did take place, we retained our hold on the Chess Cup, but lost the Vocal Cup in the House Music Competition to Talbot, through no lack of effort either by singers or directors. ‘Once again we were well represented in the Ist XV and Colts XV, a fact which stood us in good stead in the Senior Fifteen-a-side Final against Meynell, when, afver one of the best games of the term, we shared the cup after a 0-0 draw. H. R. E. Clarke-Lomas and I. R. Higgins should be congratulated on receiving their Ist XV Half-colours. The same pair should again be congratulated on receiving their Senior House-Colours. On the last Sunday of the term the Annual Military Whist-Drive was held, and was, as usual, a success. To finish on a “brighter” note, how pleasant it is to see the House boot-room and Hobbies room so colourfully cheerful, after being decorated during the course of the term. The cheerful colours match some of the products of the latter, as the newly-formed Hobbies Room finds its feet. CCH. WOODARD Captain of House B. Bakhtiar House Prefects B. Mincher-Lockett, D. Sanan- aii Captain of Rugger B. Bakhtiar Captain of Squash R.A. K. Hoppins Captain of Shooting House Secretary House Colours: Senior Junior J. Bayat R. A. K. Hoppins B. Bakhtiar, P. Mincher-Lockett J, Bayat E. T. Hamar, B. Thirsk After two weeks we moved into our new dayrooms, in crypt owing and two. The senior day- room is much better than our fast one. Twenty-eight people have their own “horse-boxes”. ‘The rugger this term has not been very successful, partly due to illness, In the semi-final we played Meynell, who had superior teams. The teams did very well to keep the score down against Meynell, and this must be attributed to team spirit. Only when the final whistle had gone were they sure of victory in both senior and junior matches. R. L. Mooney played an outstanding game as outside centre. The Sevens were cancelled because of illness.May, 1962 THE ELLESMERIAN 31 In the squash we fared better, by beating Wakeman 2-1 in the semi-finals, Hoppins and Lager being the victors while Coulson, who had been off games for some time, lost. The final against Talbot was cancelled because of iliness. ‘The House Music this term was somewhat chaotic due to illness. The House Unison song was outstanding, and we gained second place in the Vocal Cup. J. W. Naylor is to be congratulated on his very fine trumpet solo which earned him 23 marks out of a possible 25. The vocal solos —broken voices—were mainly responsible for our success in the Vocal field. On the whole the House made a good contribution to the enjoyment of the music that evening. We did not have much success in the Chess competition, only managing to come third. We look forward to next term with confidence and enthusiasm. K RAK.H. VALETE B. BAKHTIAR (1958-1962). ““O" Level (10 subjects), House Colours 1961. Prefect and Captain of House 1961. Captain of 2nd XV 1961. C.C.F. Cert “A” (I and II), Sgt. J. Bayar (1958-1962). “O" Level (5 subjects). Senior House Colours 1962. C.C.F. Cert. “A (Land 11). Corporal. Junior House Head Monitor vs HV. S. Cornwall Monitors r "IL JS. Openshaw, R. N. Boyle, J. Pilkington, M. C. Thornton, D.C. Bratby, C. J, Bowley, R. J. Hulmes All-Round Cup Not awarded ‘Shooting Cup .. Not awarded Steeplechase Cup Not awarded Football Cup ... Not awarded House Colours G. J. Whitehead There is little for us to record this term. The cold weather combined with sickness to curtail our activities so that we were unable to award any of the usual cups at the end of the term. School work was affected, in some cases seriously. We was therefore the more remarkable that we were able, despite the difficulties, to perform our play. This was most fortunate because our production of “Clive” by L. Du Garde Peach this year marked the tenth birthday of the Junior House Dramatic Society. The play Was successful and, although the whole cast played their parts well, special congratulations must go to H. V. S. Cornwell who, as Clive, sustained with ease and confidence a long part which required him to age nearly twenty years during the period of the play. The Junior Ellesmerian Society met regularly throughout the term, and a varied programme including some musical items was presented. In addition, the senior members of the society visited the site of Ellesmere’s castle. On Field Day this term a large party from the Junior House Visited the walls of the City of Chester and Chester Zoo. A most interesting and entertaining day was had by all. This year the Headmaster has decided to increase the number of prizes awarded to boys in the Junior School. The additional prizes are to be given for Art, Handicraft, Reading and Essay writing. We congratulate Bourne, Dawe and Cornwell on winning star prizes, and Whitehead ‘on winning the modelling prize and receiving his House Colours. R -E.B. Chapel Notes Visitors to the Chapel this term have included the Bishop of Lichfield, the Bishop of Shrewsbury the Rev. John Whiteley (Marlborough College), the Rev. Charles Willis (C.4.C.T.M.) and the Rev. G. A. H. Atkins (Presifelde School).