Issue 23 - The Glasgow Academy

Number 23 Spring 2014
THE MAGAZINE FOR FORMER PUPILS AND FRIENDS OF GLASGOW ACADEMY AND WESTBOURNE SCHOOL
The Academy Summer Exhibition: 23 – 26 June 2014
Seri Oh (S4)
Karima Hassan (S6)
Jasmine Li (S4)
Ian Halliday (S4)
Do we have your e-mail address?
It’s how we communicate best!
Karin Shaw (S4)
Editorial
‘Summer Term and the living is easy?’
Occasional visitors to The Academy
at this time of year ask if the school is
‘winding down towards the end of term’.
It’s quite likely that such visitors don’t
know Glasgow Academy very well!
As every teacher knows, the truth is that
things tend to wind up towards the end
of term rather than the other way round.
And that is probably truer of this school
than most.
Along with the arrival of cherry blossom
in late April and early May, of course,
comes the exam season. Generations
of pupils will remember that - as the
days get warmer and beckon most of
us outside with the promise of early
summer - for them, it’s time to stay in
and catch up on last-minute study!
After the exams are over, however, there
are a thousand things to keep our pupils
busy in the ‘wind up’ to the end of term.
Cricket matches, athletics competitions,
music and drama events, rowing regattas,
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions,
prize-givings, trips to museums,
university open days, Kindergarten
2
Etcetera
Wei Peng (S5)
graduations, concerts, plays, weeks
away to outdoor centres, a ‘Formula
1 Challenge’ for budding engineers,
even a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party… it’s
all happening! And, with every passing
year, a whole raft of new and exciting
happenings jostle for space alongside
more established events.
Compared to some of the items on
that list, having been with us for only
a decade or so, the Glasgow Academy
Art Exhibition is still in its infancy. In
a relatively short time, however, it has
established itself as an indispensable part
of the Summer Term - an event which
annually gives parents and visitors to the
school alike a glimpse of the fabulous
creative output of Glasgow Academy’s
art pupils.
If you’d like to come along to the
opening of the exhibition at 7 pm on
Monday 23 June, just give us a call on
0141 342 5494.
Keeping in touch
The External Relations office is situated
in Colebrooke Terrace. Former pupils are
always welcome to pop in for a chat and look
round the school. Just give us a call to arrange
a time. Our address is Colebrooke Terrace,
Glasgow G12 8HE and you can contact us on
0141 342 5494 or at [email protected]
The Glasgow Academical Club
21 Helensburgh Drive, Glasgow G13 1RR
President: Gavin Smith
E-mail: [email protected]
Secretary: Stuart Neilson
Tel: 07771 845104
E-mail: [email protected]
The Academical Club pavilion
is available for functions.
Academical Club’s London Section
Secretary – David Hall, 20 Cadogan Place
London SW1X 9SA
Tel: 020 7235 9012
E-mail: [email protected]
Like us on Facebook; join us on LinkedIn
We’d be delighted to see you!
Cover picture: Lucy McCall (S6)
Anecdotage
Tea for… 35!!
Few masters were as famous as Benjamin
G (Baggy) Aston. Not only did I prosper
under his tutelage, my father had also
trod that path more than 30 years earlier.
In September 1963, the story did the
rounds that Baggy’s Higher English Class
of the previous term had had a 100%
success rate and – as a result – the entire
class was invited chez Aston for a slap-up
tea after school on Friday. The following
week, the event was confirmed in
graphic detail by those who had
attended. We, in the next Higher group,
decided to stake our claim to a similar
outcome. The challenge was accepted!
In September of 1964, on return after
the Higher results, a quick poll soon
revealed that lightning had indeed
struck twice and we were in line for
our reward. It fell to me to jog BGA’s
memory on this matter and a date was
set.
My recollection of the actual event is
limited to one graphic mental snapshot of
an enormous Victorian dining room with
bay window. The sun was streaming in,
illuminating a substantial linen-bedecked
dining table, sagging with traditional
fare. Today it might be chicken
wings, pizza slices and wraps. Then
it was sausage rolls, egg/ham/cheese
sandwiches, homemade fruit scones with
jam and cream and a variety of cakes, all
washed down with a selection of juices
and tea from a silver teapot (rather like
something out of The Famous Five)! At
the end of the room was Baggy, beaming
from ear to ear, propped up against a vast
mahogany sideboard, clutching a cup of
tea and endlessly puffing his way through
a packet of Capstan, while Mrs A raced
back and forth from the kitchen with
additional supplies.
I doubt if such an event would be
allowed to take place in 2014. I wonder
how many readers from 1963/4
remember being at these events? How
many more years saw this celebration?
I was pleased to note from my research
that Baggy lived into his 90th year
(despite the Capstan!).
Douglas Macnaughtan (1965)
P.S. BGA was also a published science
fiction author (see http://www.
sf-encyclopedia.com/entry/aston_b_g)
Roger Trythall (1962) contributes this photograph from his CCF days. He says: ‘I think it was taken at a gunnery course
near Otterburn. The gun is a 25 pounder. In terms of who is who I think it’s as follows.
Back Row (left to right): Orr (?); unknown; John I ‘Anson; unknown; unknown; Hugh Ormerod; myself
Front Row: John McCluskey; Wilson (?); Harry Jackson; unknown; unknown; unknown.’
Anyone who thinks they recognise the missing cadets is welcome to send us their names.
Etcetera
3
Two Little Boys and two Dinky Toys
E
demolished to make way for the school’s
new, state of the art, science complex.
As a then avid collector of Dinky toys,
I remember, at the Academy in the
mid-fifties, forming a good friendship
with my classmate and fellow Dinky
enthusiast, Andrew Brown. Andrew
lived in the ground floor flat of the
traditional terrace block in Colebrooke
Street, which has recently been
Way back then, I lived so far distant from
the Academy that my commute home
involved a journey by tram, train and a
mile-long walk, so it was galling for me,
at the end of the school day, to have to
walk past Andrew’s house and to see
him at his front room window, already
home and dry, having only had to cross
the street. He could be out of school and
home in seconds.
nvy is not an admirable trait at any
stage in life, but in a ten-year-old
schoolboy it can be a powerful force.
Small objects of desire: The Mighty Antar Tank
Transporter complete with Centurion tank
Mr Barradell-Smith
T
his gentleman (known to those
who came under his tutelage
as ‘Beery’) was responsible for
teaching us English during my sojourn
at the Academy. In the classrooms which
we attended for various subjects there
seemed to be no serious allocation of
seats and we gravitated to a vacant space
which we felt comfortable with (in my
case somewhere near the back, well out
of the orbit of close scrutiny – this habit
continued through visits to the cinema
during courting days, but for different
reasons ). Once chosen, that was it for
the remainder of the session.
However Mr B-S had different ideas
– probably because he was not very
good at remembering names. He had us
installed in his seating arrangement in
alphabetical order – starting at the front
of Row 1 with Anderson (a clever clogs,
or ‘swot’ in our parlance), and ending
with Veitch and Young at the very back
of Row 4. I cannot recall the pecking
order in between – apart from a Rolland
and a Weatherhead (some connection
with the university) except that we had a
McFeat somewhere in the middle, who
unsurprisingly was known as ‘Cheesy’.
Mr B-S had one of the most prestigious
classrooms in the building – it was
commodious, on a corner of the building
with plenty of light from two sides,
and had raised flooring like a lecture
theatre which meant that being a late C
4
Etcetera
Andrew was also always lucky enough to
acquire the very latest Dinky Supertoy
model within days of its release. My
pocket money never seemed to stretch
quite far enough to follow suit. A new
Supertoy was issued every month, and he
would, naturally enough, always be keen
to show this off to me as I trudged past
(Cunningham), my appointed place was
almost at the back of Row 1, and well
away from the eagle eye of Mr B-S.
Another advantage of this site of learning
was if one happened to have an English
period immediately preceding lunch
and was a partaker of the delights of the
Tuck Shop, then this particular classroom
was immediately above the source of
sustenance and, when the bell tolled,
one had a head start in the queue for
refreshment.
This sounding of the luncheon break
probably did far more than PE for
training of quick movement and obstacle
his window, homeward bound.
I bore him no malice, but all this made
it more difficult for me to summon up a
cheery wave in his direction, as a I set off
on my epic trek. I felt a long way from
home and sadly deficient in my Dinky
collection. Many years on, I now look
forward to seeing the Academy’s new
Science block when it’s completed, but I
wonder whether the pangs of schoolboy
envy will resurface?
When I look upon the new building,
I expect to see the spectre of Andrew
at a window, holding aloft his ‘Mighty
Antar Tank Transporter’ – 19/6d in old
money (or, as we called it then, ‘money’)
complete with its ‘Centurion Tank’… an
extra 7/11d!
Jim Shearer (1964)
dodging, for those involved in obtaining
a prime place in the Tuck Shop queue.
For those at a Music or Art period prior
to lunchtime – even with the prowess of
an Olympic sprinter – a place at the back
of the queue was likely to be your lot.
Fortunately it was never my misfortune
to discover what happened when the
supply of Walter Hubbard’s fabulous
Mutton Pies ran out.
Jim Cunningham (1948)
Archie McIntyre (1942) knows who all these
smart young men from 1939/40 are, but does
anyone else?
Answers, please, to [email protected]
Favourite Teachers Remembered
John Horrex
Follow The Highway Code and listen to The
Weather Forecast…!
M
ention 1966 and inevitably
someone will remind you that
was when England won the
Football World Cup! Other momentous
events occurred in 1966, however –
possibly in the reflected glory of that
sporting triumph – Harold Wilson
consolidated his Prime Minister-ship
with a 96 seat parliamentary majority and
a Glasgow Academy teacher made the
Top 30 and came close to an appearing
on BBC Top of the Pops!
mathematicians. But I still remember
Horrex’s classes fondly. His excellent
madrigal group stirred in me a love of
choral singing, even though I never sang
in the group myself.
Those of us over a certain age may
perhaps recall the teacher was John
Horrex, who died last year and his
obituary featured in the previous issue
of Etcetera. His group, The Master
Singers, released a single of The Highway
Code set to an Anglican Chant – a
strange combination. Remarkably, their
recording was actually produced by ‘The
fifth Beatle’, George Martin CBE.
Code’ offered a valuable lesson to pupils
at the time – it showed that it was (and
is) possible to enjoy life outside of work.
The record was an entertaining outcome
of their efforts at achieving a ‘work-life’
balance – maybe rather a sophisticated
concept for pupils in these days but an
example from which I imagine many,
including myself, profited during their
subsequent working lives.
Hit-making schoolteachers were far from
the norm at that time! Education in Art
and Music was rather limited in those
days – with single-handed teachers in
each of these subjects. There were also
visiting peripatetic piano and instrument
teachers.
Having recently retired as a Consultant
in England’s NHS, I am very much
aware that nowadays so many of those in
work are subjected to highly-pressurised,
humourless, target-driven environments
that encroach on leisure and family
time. In these circumstances, it is really
important to stand up for the work-life
balance and the value of being able to
smile occasionally! John Horrex certainly
did that back in 1966.
The school then had a number of
societies and the beginnings of wider
travel opportunities (largely through
the active CCF). Overall, however, the
environment was not one that nurtured
or really encouraged music or art
development. Sporting success was rather
more esteemed. The Academy then was
really quite a conservative establishment
– slowly beginning to embrace the
tremendous changes in society that were
emerging in the 1960s.
The school focus was very traditional and
worthy – geared to achieving University
entrance, Oxbridge success especially –
or preparation for traditional professions
such as law, accountancy and medicine.
The concept of a teacher doing anything
other than teaching or assisting in school
societies, sports or the CCF was quite
unique: a teacher wasn’t supposed to
have much of a life outside work, or so it
seemed to pupils then!
Looking back, I rather think the success
and publicity achieved by ‘The Highway
Thanks to the miracles of technology
and YouTube, we can still do so and
enjoy the highway code and Weather
Forecast – http://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=Qngi_jSaXlI and http://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=4z2jwDcb9wI
Alastair G Smith BSc, FRCP, FRCPath
(1967)
The whimsical chant ‘The Highway
Code’ leapt from some long-neglected
recess of my brain, on hearing the news
of John Horrex’s passing. Horrex was a
first-rate physics teacher, who (I recall)
relied on his lively intellect rather than
the leather tawse to tame the rebellious
hordes.
My own interests ran more to
mathematics, taught by the quirky but
enthusiastic EBC Thornton, inspirer
of many aspiring Oxbridge-bound
Since my Academy days I have derived
much pleasure from singing, in a capella
choirs and Grammy-winning choruses.
It goes to show how good teachers can
influence, even tangentially. So in the
words of my favourite madrigal by John
Wilbye, Draw on Sweet Night, and rest
in peace, John Horrex.
Rod Little (1967)
JAT Richards
In early December, we learned with much
sadness of the death of JAT Richards. For
several years, I had the privilege of teaching in
the English Department alongside Tony. The
affection in which he was held by colleagues
and boys alike and the depth of his pupils’
gratitude to him can be measured by the
following tributes.
Malcolm McNaught
Tony Richards’ passing stirred grateful
memories.
His enjoyment in teaching English was
as evident as his ability to communicate
it. He was a natural volunteer in any
activity expanding the horizons of
his students. He gave time to CCF,
rugby, cricket, curling, and assorted
drama enterprises, but most notably
in organising the annual orienteering
competitions on Mugdock Moor,
involving most of the school, which
reflected his own love of the hills. His
natural gift for camaraderie ensured he
never lacked the help of colleagues. He
was the consummate schoolmaster.
This wide experience gave him
knowledge of, and sympathy with, the
uncertainties of adolescence, which stood
him in good stead when he succeeded
the redoubtable Ken Waine as senior
master, where his calmness, innate
good humour and gentle, dry wit often
defused difficult disciplinary situations.
I was grateful for the friendship and
support which he so freely offered to me
Etcetera
5
and many contemporaries, both staff and
pupils.
David Gray (former Academy staff)
including write a book, without that
critical intervention.
Mr Richards was one of several excellent
English masters who I was lucky enough
to have teach me at the Academy – and
all of whose extra-curricular interests
rubbed off on me (e.g. Mr Payman’s hill
walking, Mr Spike’s sub-aqua, Mr Gray’s
RAF Section) but Tony was probably
the most influential of all.
Am very sorry to hear about Jack
Richards. He was a truly inspiring
teacher and I still vividly and often
remember some of his feedback on my
‘florid’ language…
David Fraser (1981)
His teaching of Darkling Thrush was
genuinely brilliant. I read every word of
poetry that Larkin ever wrote on account
of him. He was a truly inspiring teacher
who opened up worlds of imagination
for his pupils.
Between you, the English Department
turned around the slightly-built
stammering child with scrawling
handwriting and terrible spelling into
a youth who was ready to take on the
world, and that in no small part through
the power of language.
It was Tony (or ‘Jack’ as the boys
referred to him), who taught me through
my Higher English (in which, much to
my parents’ surprise, I secured an ‘A’).
He was understanding of my lingering
stutter, giving me time to make my
contributions in class, and instilled the
art of lifting and knitting together quotes
to construct a credible and flowing
persuasive argument.
Tony also nurtured what has become
my lifelong love of running, by leading
a distance running group when I was
in the latter years at school. I still
occasionally head out along the Kelvin
Way past the back of the school towards
Anniesland. When doing so, I often
cannot resist a wry smile at memories of
the ‘Indian Running’ sessions in which
the pace seemed to creep inexorably up
as we each took turns at the front of the
group before rotating to the back of the
line on a long run.
It was through running that I found
a pressure release, a focus and
determination, a taste of success and most
importantly self-belief and confidence.
Thirty years on, that legacy has been
passed to another generation of runners
(and triathletes too).
Neil Amner (1984)
I remember JAT Richards fondly as my
English teacher. It was never my best
subject, but he brought out the best
in me in time for the Highers and I
thoroughly enjoyed the year I spent as
one of his pupils.
Alastair Brown (1979)
I found Mr Richards to be a wonderful
6
Etcetera
William Forrest (1986)
JAT Richards
teacher who inspired me through his
reading lists and his teaching of what
English was about. My grammar,
punctuation and sentence construction
have remained as bad as ever but I read
and imagine and take pleasure in all
books I take up because of Mr Richards.
John Monaghan (1972)
I remember him as a quite inspirational
teacher who somehow succeeded in
helping me achieve a grade at Higher
English which seemed significantly in
excess of my abilities and was largely
responsible for my University offers!
Gordon Jack (1966)
Thank you also for the notification of
Tony Richard’s sad passing. I have a
particular gratitude to him because he
taught my class a method for success in
Higher English in Fifth Year. Up till then
I had found English a bit of a struggle
and, while in the top set the previous
year, the head of department’s teaching
style really didn’t suit me at all (though it
evidently did suit Niall Ferguson, to be
fair). As a result, I was put down into the
second top set in the Fifth Year and got
Tony – one of the best things that ever
happened to me. He had a systematic
approach which was just what I needed
and I went on to get a good ‘A’ in the
exam. I really believe I wouldn’t have
gone on to do the things I’ve done,
I first met Tony when I joined the
Academy in 1974, and we struck up a
pleasant friendship. We enjoyed going
on stage together, and I can still see
him in his Dame’s outfit one Christmas,
smoking his pipe in the Green Room,
which of course would not be allowed
today! I liked his dry sense of humour,
and recall when he left that he informed
the assembled company that he was
grateful for the money collected on his
behalf, saying that he wished to buy a
good quality scope with it to take with
him to Tomintoul. He then made it clear
that he did not simply wish to observe
deer and the like with it, but to shoot
them where allowed, and to eat the meat
afterwards. I think the Rector at the
time was somewhat taken aback, but all
colleagues present appreciated his views!
Alan Hutchinson (former Academy staff)
Tony was a great friend and colleague
to me during the sixties at GA, and –
although we rather lost touch after that
– we have always valued our association
with him and with Maxie.
Philip (former Academy staff) and Ruth
Beattie
Saddened to hear of this as he was one
of my favourite teachers. Especially since
he seemed to like my essays and I often
got to read them out. He practised what
many of his contemporaries did not; the
most important function of a teacher
was to be encouraging, and Tony always
achieved that. He has certainly been an
influence on my life.
Malcolm Le May (1965)
I am sure that many Academicals are
very sad to hear of Tony’s passing. I
thought that he was a gifted and natural
teacher, and very popular. Throughout
my career, which is nearing an end
and has been far from illustrious, many
colleagues have said how well I put
together on paper the right expressions
for the right occasions in the right
manner. I know that this skill was due
entirely to being in Tony’s English class
for only a couple of years. His tips on the
proper use of grammar are with me to
this day.
Iain J Smith (1971)
Very sad to hear of Mr Richards’ passing.
He never taught me English, but I have
fond memories of him taking charge
of cross country running training on a
Friday afternoon after school and driving
us into interval sprints up and down the
hilly sections of Kelvingrove park, and
around the (then recently landscaped)
areas beside Kelvinbridge underground
station.
Gordon Low (1984)
So sorry to hear this. He was a great
teacher.
Colin Ingram (1987)
Tony (JAT)Richards taught me English
at the Academy. I enjoyed his classes
although I only remember him teaching
me for one year. But without the benefit
of his teaching, I wonder what I would
have been doing now. I owe it to him
and the other English teachers that I
became an author. At university my
lecturers said I wrote well and asked who
had taught me English. JAT was one of
four I mentioned.
Miller Caldwell (1969)
He was a good man and a great teacher.
He will be missed.
Duncan McPhie (1986)
Mr Richards taught me English and
French and I probably would not have
passed those exams without him. He also
introduced me to Orienteering.
J Charles Lewis (1973)
That is indeed sad news. I was fond of
Tony Richards – he was my second
year form master. That aside, his English
lessons were always engaging if for no
other reason than the promise of a mint
a Black Strip Ball from the large tin of
them which he kept under lock and key
in the cupboard of his classroom.
There was also the challenge of
identifying which pipe tobacco he was
favouring from week to week, as well
as the gruelling winter ‘cross country’
runs on a Wednesday afternoon round
Kelvingrove Park.
Kenneth Good (1990)
I had him in third year and always
thought he was one of the best teachers I
encountered. I seem to recall many hours
spent on Keats’ The Eve of St. Agnes,
and on a cold night I often find myself
muttering, ‘St Agnes’ Eve- Ah, bitter
chill it was!’... much to the bewilderment
of the family!
Dan Carmichael (1985)
I remember in 1966 I was in 2A for
English. I was hopeless in English and
was bottom student. He wrote on my
report ‘Has tried hard in a good set’. He
wrote in Fountain pen and I can still
see the remark in my mind. There is no
other school remark I remember.
I think he is one of the few teachers –
apart from Archie Foster who taught
Maths in the room next door – who
made me feel good in my school days,
which I really loathed. I think Mr
Richards actually congratulated me on
leaving school when I picked up two
prizes. It was unexpected. That was back
in 1970.
Edwin R Lucas (1970)
I remember with fondness the lessons
and teaching that Mr Richards gave to
me and my peers, during my time at
Glasgow Academy. I was very sad to
hear of his death.
Philip Tam (1990)
I am very grateful for the education
that he gave me. One memorable
anecdote I have is that in one lesson on
a particularly soporific afternoon, circa
1980, he started stretching himself in
front of us – no doubt he must have
been stiff and restless at the time, having
been a cross-country runner. By the end
of the class, he was sitting cross-legged
on the top of his desk going through the
answers of an interpretation in the Art of
English. This was made more amusing
by the fact that he was wearing his black
graduation gown at the time.
The Independence
debate at Glasgow
Academy – in 1959
I live in Catalonia, in the countryside
north of Barcelona. I now spend
my time writing books and running
courses in unusual topics.
As in Scotland, the people here
are contemplating independence.
It is much more evident here, in
the republican flags that hang from
nearly every balcony, and in the fact
that over a million people regularly
turn out on demonstrations. There
is also the substantial difference that,
over here, Madrid is very hostile
to any talk of self-determination,
while London has at least signed the
Edinburgh Agreement.
All this talk of independence
takes me right back to 1959 at
the Academy. It was the year
of a General Election, and the
Conservatives were expected to
win comfortably. So different from
today where the Tory presence in
Scotland is a pale shadow of what it
used to be. We had a mock election
at the school. Not surprisingly, the
Conservative candidate won easily.
What now strikes me, all these
years later, is that there was an SNP
candidate. If my memory serves me
well, it was a chap named Gilchrist.
When you think about it, it was
a courageous thing to do in those
far-off days of conservatism.
Belatedly, I take my hat off to him.
Chris Thomson (1963)
He had a relaxed demeanour, and it just
seemed like a quirkiness on his part to
sit atop his desk like a thin version of the
Budda.
Marcus Szilagyi (1982)
Etcetera
7
My early life – and other adventures
I
was born in Scotland on 1 April 1928
in the house of my mother’s parents.
My father was a dentist with rooms
on the south side of Glasgow. As a family
we used to cruise in steam-driven paddle
steamers down the Clyde River to The
Kyles of Bute. So, early in my life, my
love of ships was fostered. In 1938 we
sailed from Leith to London down the
east coast of Britain to see Walt Disney’s
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. A year
later I sailed from Aberdeen to Lerwick,
capital of The Shetland Isles, to stay
with my uncle who lived in Cullivoe
on the Island of Yell. After that glorious
summer, War was declared against
Germany in September.
I attended primary school at Glasgow
Academy, but by 1939 I has moved
to the Senior School where Roydon
Richards was Rector. Many of the
teachers were male and quite a few
were enlisted to fight for their country.
Mr Orr, our Art teacher, was one and
our Rector found a young lady to fill
his place. On her first day she placed
an orange on her desk and asked the
class to draw it with crayons. Wanting
to impress, I tried to draw the best
orange ever. Our art mistress took one
look, grabbed me by the ear, and took
me to the Rector. I was caned there
and then with no explanation. A Miss
Walker from the primary school got
word of this, and showed me some
coloured cards. “Did you know you are
colour-blind, Crombie?” she asked. I
did not know, and had drawn a green
orange. This was taken as my comment
about our new teacher. The Rector
never apologized and never forgave me.
In 1943, my final year, the Rector told
me I could sit my final exams, but he
would not pass me, so I might as well
leave school. This I did.
My father found me a job with a local
Marine Engineering, as an apprentice.
I worked happily there for 18 months
until I was called up for National
Service. After Basic Training, I was
posted to Catterick in Yorkshire in the
Royal Signals, taught to drive and look
after trucks. After a week-end leave, I
was returning to Catterick by train. I
was offered 11 am lunch, but I opted
for noon. At Goswick the train gave
a sudden lurch and braked violently. I
8
Etcetera
The wreckage of John’s train to Catterick
The 20-year-old John Crombie pictured in 1948
looked out and saw the Restaurant car
lying wrecked on its side.
It subsequently came out that the driver
of the steam locomotive had failed to
read notices at the engine depot. These
told him of track repairs at Goswick,
where the train was to be diverted. He
took the diversion at full speed. The
locomotive, and eight leading carriages,
plunged into the ditch. I was in the
second last carriage which remained
upright.
Twenty-seven passengers were killed,
and fifty-nine including the driver and
fireman, injured. Many hours later a
brought-in train took the survivors
south, and I arrived at Catterick after
midnight. I had overstayed my leave
pass. Absent without leave, I was put
in the Guardhouse to await Company
Commander’s orders. I had given my
Army greatcoat to an injured passenger,
shivering on a stretcher. I was charged.
I explained why I was late and had no
greatcoat. Somebody was sent for a
morning paper, and I was believed! The
Commanding Officer for Catterick must
have learned of my ordeal because he
referred me to WOSB to be considered
for promotion to a Commissioned
Officer. I was trained at the Officer
Training Unit at Aldershot. I passed and
became 2nd Lieutenant Crombie of the
RASC.
I was posted to Bielefeld in Germany,
on the Rhine, via Harwich and The
Hook of Holland. I became 2nd in
Command of a Petrol Storage Platoon
under Captain Gibbons. But not for
long. Stalin had closed outside access to
Berlin, threatening the population with
starvation.
The Berlin Airlift had begun. I was
posted to Fassberg near Celle. This was
an old Luftwaffe fighter base with a grass
airstrip. The RAF had taken it over and
were flying Dakotas to Berlin with five
tons of bagged coal. This was inadequate,
so the Americans took over. They
covered the airstrip with perforated steel
planking, and brought in four-engined
Skymasters which could carry 12 tons of
bagged coal. I became responsible for the
German Prisoners of War as they loaded
the planes with coal.
On 14 November 1948, Prince Charles
was born to Queen Elizabeth! The RAF
still officially ran the Officers’ Mess and
drinks were declared to be free. The
American Pilots, all in their 30s, thought
this was great – and decided to get the
Scottish 20-year-old Lieutenant Crombie
drunk.
Holland to Harwich service: the
Americans were flying a Skymaster to
England to have the coal-dust removed
from its innards. I was invited to sit on
the coal-dusty aircraft floor. And so I got
to England within hours, and caught the
train home to Scotland.
I don’t know how I got to bed, but I
woke early with a severe headache and
had to get my Platoon on duty. The
Berlin Airlift stopped for nobody.
I was demobilised after my two years’
National Service, with my self-esteem
restored. I applied to Glasgow
University to study Medicine. Without
qualifications, I studied the London
Matriculation Examination. I passed. As
At Christmas in 1948, I was granted
leave. I did not need The Hook of
Books
an ex-serviceman, entry to University
was easier then.
I qualified MB,ChB in July 1956, and
– after two years’ Hospital training in
Surgery, Medicine and Obstetrics – I
applied to Alfred Holt of the Blue
Funnel Line as a ship’s surgeon. I sailed
in the RMS ‘Rhexenor’, and was in
Melbourne six weeks later. The rest is
history.
John Moir Crombie (1943)
Simon Wood, The Academy’s Head of History and Modern Studies, is the author of a number of history books.
Simon is also The Academy’s archivist and is currently researching The Academy’s role in the First World War. So
when Dr Anthony Seldon approached Glasgow Academy’s External Relations office seeking material for a new book he
was planning about the Great War, it was to Simon that we turned. Here he reviews the resulting publication.
Public Schools and The Great War: The Generation Lost
by Anthony Seldon and David Walsh
shaping British foreign policy prior to
and during the Second World War.
Published by Pen and Swords Books.
The school motto of Serva Fidem means
to keep faith. The Glasgow Academy, its
pupils, staff and former pupils certainly
had to keep faith during the years of the
First World War. Over 1300 Academicals
served in the various arms of the forces,
with 327 paying the ultimate sacrifice.
This sacrifice is acknowledged in one
of the appendices of a new publication
on Public Schools and the Great War by
Anthony Seldon and David Walsh.
The percentage of Academicals killed
relative to pupils who served is 23.8%
– one of the highest levels of sacrifice
from a public school. This book is a
timely reminder of the contribution
and sacrifice made by public schools
across Britain and the Empire in the
First World War. Indeed it is the first
piece of broad scholarship on the subject
since the publication of The Old Lie by
Peter Parker, which I read many years
ago at St Andrews University. The
foreword of the book acknowledges
that public school boys were to die at
almost twice the average rate for all those
who served. The fact that many public
school boys became the junior officers
who led their men into attack as well as
pilots in the Royal Flying Corps meant
that their sacrifice was all the greater in
proportional terms.
The authors acknowledge that
contemporary perceptions of public
schools and the Great War are deeply
inaccurate, based as they are on books
like Alan Clark’s Lions led by Donkeys
and the fine comedy series Blackadder
goes Forth. This book goes some way to
redress that perception, looking at the
impact of Public Schools on the various
battle fronts as well as the contribution
from Ireland and Public Schools from
the Dominions. Life at school during
the war, the end of the conflict and
commemoration after the war are all
covered in detail. The book finishes with
two intelligent chapters on how public
school alumni shaped the perceptions of
the war after the conflict had ended – be
it through the poetry of Sassoon or the
paintings of Paul Nash – followed by
reflections on the impact of The Lost
Generation. This impact was profound.
The Lost Generation has been blamed
variously for everything from British
economic failure between the wars to
Inevitably the book focuses on those
schools which contributed most to the
research phase. The Glasgow Academy
features in a number of chapters, notably
on the production of Fearnought gloves
for sailors in the Atlantic and North
Sea, as well as the sacrifice suffered by
those who served in the Dardanelles.
Of the ‘Scottish’ photographs in the
book, The Academy can claim a strong
link to two. One is of the Glasgow
Academy officers who served in the 8th
Cameronians [Scottish Rifles] who made
that sacrifice at Gallipoli. The other is of
the war memorial at Fettes College. The
main figure on the memorial is that of
Lieutenant Donald Macintosh VC. Prior
to being educated at Fettes, he was a
pupil at The Glasgow Academy.
This book is a timely rejoinder to those
who are critical of the privileges that a
Public School gives. People are right
to be critical, but there should also
be recognition of the sacrifice very
many made. The book is written in
a fluent style that led me to devour it
in about three days. It is a fine book
that allows for a balanced appraisal of
the Public School contribution to the
war. Academicals, of course, kept faith
with those who died and The Glasgow
Academy was reborn after the war with
the creation of The Glasgow Academy
War Memorial Trust.
Simon Wood (Academy staff)
Etcetera
9
Mary Queen of Scots and
her Escapes
by AE McRobert
S
ince retiring, Sandy McRobert
(1945) has researched aspects of
Scottish history. His latest book
relates to Mary’s escapes from her foes
not in melodramatic or semi-fictional
form but as history based on
contemporary sources.
In 1561, Mary returned from France
at the age of 18. The young Catholic
monarch had to thwart the powerful
Protestant nobles, who were supported
by England, and were determined to
control or even get rid of her. She
showed courage and resilience in
countering a series of plots and rebellions
accompanied by false allegations.
The book revises traditional accounts of
some of the escapes, stresses that she was
not in love with Bothwell, and explains
why – after the defeat of her forces at
Langside in 1568 – she had good reasons
to seek help from Queen Elizabeth.
Mary Queen of Scots and her Escapes,
ISBN: 978-1-907732-90-4, is widely
available online.
Ralph Isaacs (1952) worked with the British
Council in Burma from 1989 to 1994, learning
some Burmese language and acquiring insights
into Burmese Theravada Buddhist culture.
In this beautifully-produced and wonderfully
illustrated book, he introduces us to Sazigyo,
Burmese tablet-woven bands for binding palm-leaf
manuscripts. Although he playfully describes its
subject as ‘so recondite it may be of little value’,
we certainly enjoyed reading it.
From Colebrooke Street to Pole Position
I
t is a bright November morning
in Orlando. Having just visited
Academicals in Colorado, California
and Houston – and not quite sure what
time zone I am in! – it is a little strange
to turn on the television to see Ryan
Dalziel (2000), whom I am to meet later
that morning, being interviewed on
Good Day Orlando. Realising that this
is the type of media work Ryan is used
to – and very comfortable with – makes
me all the more grateful that he is willing
to spare some time in his busy schedule
of practising, promoting and racing to do
an interview for Etcetera.
Ryan joined Glasgow Academy in 1990
in Prep 4. He enjoyed many happy
years at the school. Art and Design
was his favourite subject in the Senior
School and he remains grateful for
the encouragement and support he
received from both Jamie McNaught
and Kim Fraser. He also liked English
lessons with David Gray – and enjoyed
being referred to as ‘Scholar Dalziel’
in his class. However, around Easter in
1998, Ryan realised that juggling the
demands of motor racing with the rigid
10
Etcetera
expectations of school was just not going
to work – so he took the brave decision
to pursue his dream and boldly walked
down the Rector’s Steps and away from
Colebrooke Street.
Despite considerable success in his
karting days (he became a Scottish
champion aged 9, began competing
across the UK at 10 and was racing in
Europe by his mid-teens), Ryan had to
start at the bottom rung professionally;
in his first year he lived in a caravan and
was a runner and general apprentice with
Team DFR in Longtown near Carlisle.
He began his professional racing career
proper in 1999 in Formula Vauxhall. He
also drove in British Formula Renault
and British Formula 3, before relocating
to the United States a few years later.
Victory at Indianapolis
From 2002 until 2004, Ryan spent
three years in the Toyota Atlantic
Championship, finishing runner-up
twice, before moving to the American
Le Mans Series in 2005. After several
years driving part-time with various
teams in a Daytona Prototype in the
Rolex Sports Car Series, 2010 was his
breakthrough year. It started with victory
at the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Ryan then
joined the Starworks Motorsport team
for the remainder of the season and
finished 5th in the driver standings. In
2011 he was with Starworks again in the
Grand Am Rolex series and finished the
year with a victory at the finale in Mid
Ohio.
2012 was Ryan’s ‘fairy tale’ season. His
team expanded into the FIA World
Endurance Championship – which they
won – and this included wins for Ryan
at the prestigious 24 hours of Le Mans
and the 12 hours of Sebring. Ryan also
captured pole and finished runner up
at the 50th Rolex 24 at Daytona and
competed in the American Le Mans
Series, winning races at Long Beach,
Baltimore and Petit Le Mans. As Ryan
says himself, ‘It was a huge year for me –
I won tons!’ The Scottish Motor Racing
Club honoured his success at their
annual dinner and awards in Edinburgh
in December 2012 by awarding him
the William Lyons trophy for the best
performance by a Scottish driver in a
sports car. Highlights in 2013 included
victory at Indianapolis and 2nd place
finishes at Road Atlanta and Circuit of
The Americas.
A major development for Ryan towards
the end of 2013 – a year which included
yellow flag in the closing stages. This
early success means Ryan now believes
ESM are ‘ready to soar this season’. We
certainly hope so. You can follow Ryan’s
progress at his next events at Monterey
and Detroit in May via his website:
www.ryandalziel.com
Ryan the family man with his niece
victory at Indianapolis and several other
podium finishes – was his surprise move
to Extreme Speed Motorsports (ESM).
Early results suggest he has made another
good move in his career. In March at
the Mobil 1 12-hour race at Sebring
(Florida), he set a team record with
both ESM, Tequila Patron-sponsored
cars finishing in the top five. Ryan’s
car only narrowly missed the top spot
on the podium due to a controversial
I was intrigued by what Ryan would
drive off the track. His spotless bright
red Porsche certainly did not disappoint
but it became clear when we sat in the
Florida sunshine at Starbucks that the
simple things in life – such as spending
time at home near Florida with his
wife Jessica and their extended families,
walking the dog, going to the gym and
taking time for a holiday – are more
important to him. His responsibilities
as both a husband and a son mean he
remains conscious of the dangers of
driving at up to 200mph on a regular
basis. There were six fatalities in
endurance motorsport in 2013 and two
good friends were involved in serious
crashes last year. At the same time, Ryan
seems relaxed about the perils of his
profession: he simply says, ‘It [crashing]
happens every now and again…’ before
adding with a grin, ‘I had a good one in
October!’
Mark Taylor
Etcetera
11
Academical Club
A word on
Rugby from your
President…
A
fter a flood of key player retirals
and the departure of 1st XV
coach Davy Wilson at the end
of last season, new Rugby Section
Chairman, Nigel Campbell (1979),
and his committee, drew up a 3-year
development plan to build upon the
good work already achieved.
Key to this plan was the ‘capture’ of
2012-13 SRU Youth Coach of the Year,
John Couper and his no.2, Graham
Boyle (formerly of Garnock RFC). From
the start, their impact was significant
and – supported by Academical Chris
Reid (1977) who is also involved as an
SRU development officer – we have
developed an exciting style of expansive
rugby.
Gavin Smith, with his daughter Val, at the London
Section Dinner in February
We have been fortunate to attract some
extremely talented youngsters to the
Club – and their progression into senior
rugby has been great to watch as their
game develops and their confidence
grows. Sitting in a credible third place,
our highlights so far have included two
wins out of three over GHK, a 6-try
hammering of Allan Glen’s at home, and
a training session from All-Black, Hika
Reid. We are also pleased to support
Women’s Rugby and to provide the
SRU with training and gym facilities for
their Youth Development Programme.
There is no complacency and we are
keen to recruit further support – both on
and off the pitch. Support of Academicals
far and wide has been fantastic but we
would always welcome more! Whatever
your level of interest in the game whilst
at school, why not come down to New
Annniesland to see the progress we’ve
been making, meet some old friends and
enjoy some exciting rugby?
You’d be most welcome!
Gavin Smith, President
Glasgow Accies Ladies’ Hockey
T
he Ladies’ 1st XI are sitting fourth
in the 1st Division of the Scottish
Hockey Championship league.
Their goal is to finish 3rd at the end of
the season. Division 1 is dominated by
Clydesdale Western teams and strong
sides from Edinburgh and Dundee. It has
not been an easy season but the Ladies’
1st XI have risen to the challenge with
some really well-earned results.
The Ladies’ 2nd XI are sitting third
bottom in West District 1. Their goal
is to avoid relegation this season. With
only a couple of games left, they hope
that with a lot of hard work and a spot
of luck they might just pull it off! It has
been a tough year
for those playing
and organising the
2nd XI – issues
such as availability,
injury, new
players and old
players moving
on have really
affected the team’s
performance. They
look forward to
starting afresh next
season and really
building on 2014.
Accies 2nd XI
played in the
quarter finals
of the Scottish
District Plate on
2nd XI – Ladies Hockey
12
Etcetera
12 April – further details are
available on the website –
www.glasgow-hockey.com
We encourage anyone
interested in playing hockey
to come along and try out
summer hockey at Glasgow
Accies. Everyone over 14
years of age is welcome –
male/female, pupils, school
leavers, former pupils,
teachers, parents and all
friends of The Academy. For
more information, please
email Stephanie Hermes –
stephaniebarnet@hotmail.
com
We thoroughly enjoyed
taking three tables at the
Accies’ Sports Ball on
Saturday 5 April – an
excellent excuse to get dressed
up, enjoy some ceilidh
dancing, and socialise with
all members of the Glasgow
Academical Sports Club. Past,
present or future members of
the hockey section are always
welcome to come to this
event.
On a sad note we say
goodbye to one of our
longest-serving players; Lynne
Moore (née Allan). Lynne
is off to Dubai with her
husband, Ali, who has been
offered a new job as a pilot
for Fly Dubai. Lynne will
be working as a physio and
the plan is to return within 5
years and settle somewhere
in Europe. Lynnie – you are
most welcome back at Accies
if you ever return to Glasgow.
We wish you good luck and
Bon Voyage.
Anyone wishing to
join Accies, please visit
our website. For more
information about Glasgow
Accies please email us
via the contact us page
on our website – www.
glasgow-hockey.com We are
especially keen to welcome
pupils and school leavers in
the Glasgow area.
Men’s Hockey – end of Season
Men’s Hockey
G
lasgow Accies men’s hockey team has survived – and performed well recently with
victories over Helensburgh (1-0 Away) and Giffnock 2nds (4-1 Away) whilst fielding only
ten men! We have some talented hockey players amongst us; however, we need more to
strengthen the squad.
Home games are played at Windeyedge on the new ultra-modern water-based pitch and
Monday nights are set aside for training sessions of drills and skills, usually followed by a short
game played in good spirits. We are reasonably well-played in the Glasgow West District
Hockley League. In the summer months we join forces with our ladies and play in a mixed
league against a variety of teams. These matches are open to non-Club members and are
competitive; however, they’re also good fun. We hope to get the BBQ set up this year!
Our hockey facilities are on a par with the other clubs against whom we compete, so please get in
touch if you or any family members or friends have any interest in playing hockey with us.
Paul Harrison
[email protected]
Our thanks to
Hugh Barrow
(1962) who sent
us this photograph
of the Scotland
Team for the First
Empire Games
(1930). Back row
in white is Accie
Ian Borland (440
yards).
Etcetera
13
London Section
We continue to increase our membership
with the arrival in the London area
of recent school and university
leavers. Those who do not contact us
immediately soon hear of the London
Section through Facebook, through The
Academy office or by word of mouth.
We would encourage all Accies to make
contact with the London office when
they know they are relocating to the
London area. (Please see the contact
information below.)
In addition to our normal events, we
have in the last 12 months organised a
drinks evening which was held at Barrio
Central, W1. This event attracted some
new faces along with some regulars and
the evening was a great success. Our
thanks go to our Vice-President, Karen
Greenshields, for initiating this event.
Our Annual Dinner was held on 28
February at the Caledonian Club and
we were delighted not only to entertain
74 Accies and their guests during the
evening, but also to have representation
from Glasgow, in the form of the Rector,
the President of the Glasgow Academical
Club, Malcolm McNaught, Mark Taylor
and Emma Fitzpatrick from the school –
as well as representatives from the Smith
Clan.
The evening provided a wonderful
opportunity for Accies of all ages to
Notices
mix in the excellent atmosphere of the
Caledonian Club. Judging by the noise
in the Johnnie Walker Room, there
was a great deal of reminiscing and
conversation.
Cammy Wilson presided over the
dinner with our Vice-President, Karen
Greenshields, welcoming the Rector and
the President of the Parent Body, both of
whom responded with detailed accounts
of the School and the Club respectively.
Cammy introduced our guest speaker,
Mr Jamie Matheson, who – despite being
educated in Edinburgh! – recognised the
attributes of The Academy.
Colin Ingram proposed a very witty Vote
of Thanks and the evening concluded
with a large gathering in the bar
afterwards.
The London Section has already started
planning for its 2015 Annual Dinner and
I would ask you all to make a note in
your diaries that this event will take place
on Friday 13 March 2015 (eve of the
Calcutta Cup match) at The Caledonian
Club in London.
I would like to reiterate that if any
Accie is planning to move to or near
to London, do get in touch with the
London Section on 020 7235 9012 or at
[email protected]
David Hall (1961)
Some of the younger Academicals who enjoyed the Annual Dinner on 28
February
Academical Club
AGM
Tuesday 3 June 2014
GLASGOW ACADEMICAL
CLUB
Notice is hereby given to members
that the Annual General Meeting of
the Club will be held at 6.30 pm on
Tuesday 3 June 2014 in the Pavilion,
New Anniesland, 21 Helensburgh
Drive, Glasgow G13 1RR.
The Secretary will make available
copies of the Report and Accounts
to any member, on request to the
above address.
Stuart W Neilson
Secretary
The Glasgow Academical Sports
Club Annual General Meeting will
be held prior to the above meeting
commencing at 6.00 pm in the
Pavilion, New Anniesland.
2014 – 2015
Subscriptions
Following a review of Club subscription
levels, there has been an increase to
most membership categories for the new
subscription year, 1st April 2014 – 31st
March 2015, with ordinary membership
increasing to £40, and Rugby/Gents’
Hockey/Ladies’ Hockey/Gents’ Cricket
going to £110.
There are to be no changes to Gents Golf,
Ladies Cricket, or Non-playing/Social
subscriptions.
You should have received your 2014-15
Subscription Form at the end of March but,
if you didn’t, please contact Iain Jarvie,
Membership Secretary at iainjarvie152@
btinternet.com,
or on 07803 855394
14
Etcetera
Westbourne Section
Class of ‘66 Reunion
Update
Death
A
Fiona Kennedy Clark
(1973)
Marjorie A Brash (1976)
s most reunions probably do, our class reunion
came about over lunch! Four of us have met
regularly since school and one day Mary joined
us as a surprise – she was the catalyst! Each of us was
in contact with someone, each of these had a contact
or two and with the help of Emma’s ‘list’ we soon had
about 50 names – after 48 years this was amazing! We
had 72 in our class – the Post-War Baby Boom! So by
e-mail and snail mail initial notices were sent. Not all
replied, but it was good to hear news of many and, on
the day, we had 20 for lunch at Anniesland.
There was much talk and laughter – everyone looked
great and we were all delighted to be in each other’s
company again. There was complete disbelief that
so many years had passed and great hilarity when
photographs were produced. What hairstyles we all had
– not helped by the ‘hairband’ era! Great pictures also
of the ski trip and the school teams and someone even
produced a class project, a beautifully-written page by
each girl – possibly produced especially for the ‘Show
of Work’ at the end of the summer term.
Received an OBE in the
2014 New Year’s Honours
list for services to music and
charities. Last year Fiona
also became a Deputy Lord
Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire.
She still sings, produced a
show called ‘The Kist’ and
gets up to mischief!
Marjorie Anne Brash died
peacefully in Edinburgh
on 23 March. On leaving
Westbourne, she gained a
place to study German at St
Andrews University where
she graduated MA (Hons) in
1981. Marjorie was a dear
sister of Alan and Granger and
a proud aunt and great-aunt.
The Laboratory Appeal – On Target
The Westbourne Appeal to name one of the laboratories
in the new Science and Technology Building now stands
at £22,500.
With just a little more help, we can ensure we will have a
Westbourne Laboratory in the new building.
Please give what you can.
The Academical Pavilion was the perfect venue – we all
felt very relaxed and under no pressure to eat and drink
up and leave! It was a very happy occasion and we hope
that we may all meet again some day.
With many thanks to the staff at Anniesland and to
Emma for her undoubted skills in co-ordinating it all.
Alison Young (Scott) (1966)
Etcetera
15
Events
The Independence
Debate – in 2014
O
n Friday 28 March The Academy
held its great debate on Scottish
Independence.
We were delighted to welcome four
experts to present the evidence for and
against Independence and to debate
the topic in front of an audience of
Senior School pupils eligible to vote
in September’s referendum. In the
‘Yes’ corner were highly-successful
entrepreneur and former pupil, Ian
Ferguson-Brown and the SNP Minister
for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism and
current parent, Fergus Ewing. Presenting
the opposing case were local MP and
former Parliamentary Under-Secretary
of State at the Scottish Office, Anne
McKechin, alongside former pupil
and Deputy Leader of the Scottish
Conservatives, Jackson Carlaw MSP.
Taking the questions from the floor and
generally keeping the peace was our own
James Mortimer (S6), President of The
Glasgow Academy Debating Society.
After it was all over, one member of
the audience commented that it had
been one of the most informative and
best-tempered debates that she had heard
on the subject of Scottish Independence.
The Iain Muir Spring
Lunch
T
he annual lunch for 1945-1955
school leavers took place on the
traditional date of the first Friday of
March. Now known as the ‘Iain Muir
Spring Lunch’ in memory of its founding
organiser, since Iain’s untimely death at
the beginning of 2012, this year’s event
was held at the School, having settled
over the past few years into a pattern of
New Anniesland and Colebrooke Street
in alternate years.
Forty ‘golden oldies’, several from
far-flung Academical outposts in the
United Kingdom, sat down after a drinks
reception provided by the School to a
splendid repast created by the School’s
catering staff and including a generous
quantity of wine and soft drinks – all for
a bargain ‘ticket’ price which couldn’t
have been matched elsewhere. Thirty-six
apologies with messages of warm
greetings brought the total number of
responses to approximately a third of
the overall circulation list, indicating a
continuing interest in, and enthusiasm
for, this annual get-together.
This year, the invited guest was
Gavin Smith, current President of the
Glasgow Academical Club, who got
an attentive hearing when in a short
address he delivered a snapshot review
of the widespread activities of the sports
sections of the club. Gavin also gave a
16
Etcetera
titillating glimpse of plans being formed
to celebrate the Club’s 150th anniversary
in 2016.
The adjoining photograph describes
better than words the non-stop
conversation and camaraderie which
was only curtailed when the gathering
reluctantly dispersed as the Cargill Hall
was occupied for lecture purposes by
present-day pupils.
John B Park
Dates for your Diary
Thursday 5 June
Monday 23 June
Thursday 4 September
Friday 19 September
Thursday 25 September
Friday 3 October
Friday 24 October Friday 24 October
Friday 7 November
Sell It for SciTech! Antique selling event
Donor Thank You Reception
TGA Dinner with Sir Steve Redgrave
Kelvin Foundation Lunch
GA Careers Event
‘Class of 1994’ 20-year Reunion
‘Class of 2004’ 10-year reunion
Gasbags Lunch
GAC Dinner
2015
DATE TBC
‘Class of 1995’ Reunion
The Canada Prize
T
he Canada Prize was first presented
to a pupil at the Glasgow Academy
thirty years ago. The idea of the
prize was conceived one evening some
three years earlier in a Chinese restaurant
in Vancouver, British Columbia. Tony
Kozlowski, then living in Toronto, was
in Vancouver on a business trip and
dining out with his old school friend,
Sandy Ferns. As the evening progressed,
the conversation eventually gravitated to
the old school, the usual pattern of these
dinners. At the time, Tony had been
coordinating an active section of the
Academical Club in Ontario and it soon
became apparent from the information
which he had accumulated that there
was a growing number of Academicals
residing not only in Ontario but
throughout Canada.
In those far-off days there was minimal
reference to Academicals living abroad
in any of the school publications. But
times were changing. Academicals
were emigrating, seeking employment
abroad or simply exploring the world in
ever-increasing numbers. Remarkably,
it was apparent that, although they were
unable to enjoy the camaraderie of
an afternoon’s rugby at Anniesland or
attend a school function, distances did
not diminish the feeling of attachment
which they continued to hold for their
old school. This sense of belonging was
evident in the Academicals that Tony
and Sandy had come across in Canada
and they started to think of ways that
they might turn this fact to the school’s
benefit. It wasn’t long before they came
up with an idea of establishing a Canada
Prize to be presented as part of the
annual Prize Giving ceremony. They
hoped that the presentation of such a
prize would generate awareness among
the pupils, staff and parents that many
Academicals of all eras were now living
in Canada and, regardless of the distances
involved, they continued to appreciate
the benefits which they obtained from
Academy schooling.
When the proposal was first put to
the rector, he suggested instead an
endowment to the library – a worthy
idea but not quite in keeping with
the original vision. So it was not until
the arrival of Colin Turner that the
Canada Prize project really got under
way. Long-serving Academicals Jimmy
Murray (1950) in Montreal and Doug
Gibson (1962) in Toronto quickly
endorsed the concept and their advice
and active support have ever since been
freely given and gratefully received.
The concept as approved by Colin
Turner was for a book on a subject
relevant to Canada and or Academicals,
to be presented for studies in History
or Geography, together with a small
monetary gift. The book would be
chosen each year by the Academicals
in Canada and would contain a unique
tile or plate that would identify it as the
Canada Prize. In light of his involvement
with the Ontario Academical Section
and the preponderance of Academicals
living in the Province of Ontario, Tony
Kozlowski was in the ideal position to
commence raising funds with the goal of
providing a sound financial base for the
prize in the future.
Some eight years later, at the suggestion
of the rector, the cash award was phased
out. This created a dilemma as to what
might happen to the Canada Prize in
the future when the Academicals who
conceived it were not able to manage
the process. The Indian Trophy provided
the seed for thought and it was decided
that a permanent memento along the
lines of the Indian Trophy would be
the best way to guarantee the continued
existence of the Prize. When it was
deemed that adequate funds had been
raised, the question naturally arose. What
form would the trophy take? The only
component in the decision which was
sacrosanct was that the trophy had to
represent some element that was totally
Canadian and immediately recognized
as such. This decision prevented the
comment of ‘not another silver cup!’.
It was Tony Kozlowski’s proposal that
the trophy should be an Inuit carving
and this satisfied both the inviolable
requirement and the artistic sense of
those involved in the project. It was
agreed that the final form the carving
should take was that of the Dancing
Bear, a deeply revered and integral part
of the culture of the Canadian Inuit
people that depicts the transformation
of the dancing Shaman, the ‘medicine
man’, into the body and soul of the
Great Bear, the most powerful of
all native animal spirits. This, to the
prize’s founders, seems to epitomize the
awakening of the mind that is the heart
of Glasgow Academy education.
Tony arranged to meet Koomutuak
Curley, a young Inuit carver from Cape
Dorset on Baffin Island, who was gaining
a well-deserved national reputation for
his art and at the time of contact was
exhibiting at a Toronto gallery. He was
duly commissioned to carve the Dancing
Bear out of dark green serpentine rock,
a much more demanding and exciting
medium than the ubiquitous soapstone.
By coincidence, ‘Koozie’ Curley was
born in 1984 – the year the Canada Prize
in its original form was first presented.
A commission was also given to an
Ontario wood carver with historic
connections to Scotland to create a base
of North American Black Walnut and,
finally, to connect the Dancing Bear
tangibly to Scotland, a well-established
Glasgow jeweller created the silver
bands and inscription plates on which
provenance of the Prize and the
recipient’s name would be inscribed.
The resulting trophy is a magnificent
piece, almost two feet tall and is
undoubtedly a worthy tribute to the
Canada Prize winners past, present
and future and to those Canadian
Academicals whose enterprise and
education took The Academy’s name
and reputation to foreign shores with
such success.
Sandy Ferns conceived the initial idea
for a prize and he sums up his vision
thus: ‘The Canada Prize, as represented
by the Dancing Bear, should not only
be a symbol of our pride in our new
beginnings and new homeland but
should also honour our roots and
Scottish heritage, specifically our time at
The Glasgow Academy, which provided
us with the education, confidence and
spirit to seek and settle in the greener
pastures ‘across the water’. We trust that
it provides similar inspiration to those
Academy pupils who follow.’
Sandy Ferns (1960) and Tony Kozlowski
(1962)
Etcetera
17
SciTech Update
Construction Begins!
SciTech Facts – the new building will provide:
• 37,000 square feet over four floors
• A 175-seat auditorium
• A food technology department
•A hospitality suite for community, school and FP events
•15 state-of-the-art laboratories for Biology, Physics and Chemistry
SciTech Donations by Year Group
Many parents – as well as a number of trusts and foundations – have made generous
contributions to the SciTech appeal. Nevertheless, former pupils have still given the
largest portion of gifts and pledges to date. The following tables highlight which year
ranges and which particular ‘Classes’ have raised the most for SciTech so far:
Appeal total update
35%
65%
Support still
required
Gifts
banked to
date
Thanks to the generosity of so many former
pupils, parents and friends of The Academy,
we were able to begin construction on our new
SciTech building in January. You can watch
live progress of the work on Colebrooke Street
via our webcam: www.theglasgowacademy.org.
uk/fps/sci-tech-webcam
18
Etcetera
We need your help to raise at least
£1,000,000. Because of the generosity of
The Academy community, we have now
banked £650,000 in gifts, not including
legacies.
We are extremely grateful for all gifts –
large or small. With your help, we will
be able to complete this transformational
project – and SciTech can open in 2015.
TGA Alumni Gift Summary
Year
Gifts and Range
Pledges
Number of Donors
1925 -1940
1941-1945
1946-1950
1951-1955
1956-1960
1961-1965
1966-1970
1971-1975
1976-1980
1981-1985
1986-1990
1991-1995
1996-2000
2001-2013
10
11
20
24
17
14
12
7
5
14
3
1
1
1
£96,278
£58,975
£94,947
£53,017
£88,163
£44,031
£9,545
£10,500
£8,289
£132,178
£20,000
£625
£2,500
£1,250
Year Group Gifts – Top 5
‘Class of’
Amount Raised
1981
1947
1957
1943
1952
£129,115
£74,738
£65,000
£62,625
£26,806
Major Naming Opportunities
Nearly all of the major spaces in the
building have now been sponsored. If
you would like information on the last
few naming opportunities available,
contact Mark on 0141 342 5494/ Mark.
[email protected] for more details and
Gift Aid benefits.
Name your seat!
The 175-seat auditorium will be at
the heart of the new building.
You can name your own seat in the
auditorium.
You can make all the
difference
Contact Mark on
0141 342 5494/
[email protected] for
more details on naming
options and gift aid benefits.
Gifts of a Lifetime
Generations of Academy pupils have
benefited from the generosity of
lifetime gifts. Legacy gifts allow us to
provide fund Bursaries for talented
pupils – as well as providing the best
facilities for all.
Reducing Inheritance Tax
Gifts to charities such as The Glasgow
Academy are 100% exempt from
Inheritance Tax (IHT). In addition, if
you make charitable gifts in your Will
that amount to 10% or more of your
chargeable net estate, the IHT rate on
the whole estate will be reduced from
40% to 36%. After your gift is made,
the tax saving will be passed on to the
other beneficiaries.
Make a difference
Every bequest makes a difference
to The Academy and we are deeply
grateful for the legacy gifts we receive,
whether it is a cash gift, a specific
item or a percentage of your estate
after taking care of your family.
There are various ways in which you
might consider leaving a gift to Glasgow
Academy in your Will:
Types of Legacy
•Residuary: Provides a part or all of
the remainder (or a share of the
remainder) of your estate after other
liabilities and bequests have been
satisfied.
•Pecuniary: Allows for a specific
percentage or sum of an estate to
be left to a named individual or
organisation.
•Reversionary: Leaves assets to
be administered by trustees so
beneficiaries (e.g. a spouse) enjoy the
income during their lifetime and the
whole – or a portion of – the estate
reverts to the school upon their death.
• S
pecific: Permits the leaving of specific,
personal possessions. Examples
might be property, investments, life
insurance policies or works of art.
•Conditional: Provides for the
eventuality that no named dependants
survive the benefactor
If you already have a Will and wish
to add The Academy as a beneficiary,
your lawyer can attach a codicil to
your existing Will. (The Glasgow
Academy’s Charity Number is SC
015638)
The Kelvin Foundation
All who pledge or make a legacy gift
to Glasgow Academy are invited to
join our Kelvin Foundation. Members
are invited to an annual event, hosted
by the Rector. All legators (unless
they ask for their bequests to be
anonymous) are also remembered
publicly and permanently in our
Book of Thanks, which is kept in the
Rector’s Study.
If you are thinking about remembering
The Academy in your Will, we
strongly recommend that you seek
professional advice from a solicitor.
We cannot, of course, offer any legal
advice but if you would like to discuss
a legacy gift to the school, please
contact Mark on 0141 342 5494 or at
[email protected]
Etcetera
19
Announcements
Births
Far left: Jessica holding
baby Willow Rew Allan
Paul Allan (1995)
Left: Gregory Colin
Macdonald Atkinson
My wife Sara and I had another baby
girl on 13 January 2014. The photo is
of Jessica holding her new baby sister,
Willow Rew Allan (all 8lbs).
Michael Atkinson (1999)
My wife, Alison, and I are delighted to
announce the birth of our second son,
Gregory Colin Macdonald Atkinson, on
31 January 2014 in Edinburgh. Gregory’s
middle name, Colin, is in memory of his
late grandfather, former GAC President
and Chairman of GAC Sports Club,
Colin Atkinson. Murray (born 2012) is
very pleased to have a little brother!
Below: Team Caldicot!
Finlay James Chassels
Scott Chassels (1998)
Jen and I welcomed our first child, Finlay
James Chassels, into the world on 19
August 2013. This is a picture of our little
man.
Alison (Kemp) Caldicott (2000)
The Caldicott family are delighted to
welcome Jacob Alexander to join their
clan! He arrived on 11 February 2014,
at home as planned, weighing 10lbs. Big
brothers Nathan and Joshua are very
proud.
Elizabeth (Gilchrist) Maitland
(2000)
Baby Ewan Watson McMaster and
George John McMaster
Elizabeth and Douglas Maitland are
delighted to announce the arrival of their
daughter, Isla Margaret, at The Royal
Berkshire Hospital on 2 January 2014.
John McMaster (1996)
Pictured is George John McMaster (born
15 April 2012) and his little brother Ewan
Watson McMaster (born 10 October
2013) in their Scotland rugby tops.
Scott McMaster (1993)
Scott and his wife Kate are delighted to
announce the birth of their daughter Kim
Patricia McMaster on 11 November 2013.
Born a healthy 8lbs 10oz at Glasgow’s
Southern General Maternity Hospital.
David McNaught (2002)
David and Ruth are delighted to
announce that George Morrison Ross
McNaught was born – four weeks early
– on 9 March 2014 weighing in at 5lb
2oz. Currently, George’s name is slightly
longer than he is – but he’s catching up
fast!
20
Etcetera
Isla Margaret Maitland
Kim Patricia McMaster
George Morrison Ross McNaught
Special Birthday
Happy Bitrthday, Ken Waine!
It’s not every day you’re 90 – and in
celebration of the event Ken Waine’s
family got together for a big party
for his birthday in March. Ken’s
many friends in the Academy family
join in wishing many happy returns
of the day!
Moving up, moving on…
Conrad Rafique (1983)
Conrad Rafique has made the full career
transition to Fitness and Motivation
Coach and is currently completing his
masters in Personal Training, Fitness and
Nutrition with the European Institute
of Fitness at Lillieshall National Sports
Centre.
The new business is called Rock
Mountain Fitness www.rockmountain.
co.uk
Engagements and
Marriages
Alan Barrie (1979)
John Howie (2002)
On 15 May 2013 I got married to my
wife, Claire, at Drumtochty Castle in
Aberdeenshire and we had a wonderful
day. We are both living and working
in Aberdeen. I’m an Assistant Project
Manager with Subsea 7 and my wife is
an Analyst with Rushmore Reviews.
Lydia Petersen (2013)
I recently got engaged on 7 February!
I’m engaged to David Morrow.
My eldest son is working in Tierra del
Fuego (most southerly tip of Argentina)
from the middle of March to the
beginning of September 2014 as part
of his Edinburgh University 3rd Year
Languages. I am keen to see if there are
any contacts down that way who would
be available in an emergency or indeed
to offer hospitality.
(Please contact the External Relations
office [email protected] or 0141 342
5494 if you can help.)
Etcetera
21
Neil Amner (1984)
across Scotland, in the rain or sunshine
and series two of the show is set to be
just as exciting.
Neil Amner, partner at national
business law firm, DWF, has been
appointed as Deputy President of the
Glasgow Chamber of Commerce at
its annual general meeting. Neil joins
newly-appointed President, Vic Emery,
for a two-year term and will help the
Chamber to achieve the objectives of the
city’s economic development strategy.
Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s
leading transport, environmental and
parliamentary lawyers, Neil heads up the
Construction, Infrastructure & Projects
team at DWF in Scotland. He has
particular expertise in rail, road, aviation,
ferry and infrastructure matters and also
works closely with clients undertaking
Scottish Government and other public
body consultations, as well as overseeing
Bills and Orders before the Scottish
Parliament.
Neil has been a Board Member of the
Chamber for more than seven years,
chairing its Transport and Infrastructure
Export Panel. As well as his work with
the Chamber, he is also a Chartered
Fellow of the Chartered Institute of
Logistics and Transport and a member
of the European Freight and Logistics
Leaders’ Forum.
Talking about his appointment, Neil
said: ‘It is an honour to be appointed
as Deputy President, and to hold
this important position during such a
significant period of the city’s growth
and development. As a long-standing
board member, I have witnessed
first-hand the excellent work this
organisation has done to promote
Glasgow as a place to do business. I hope
my experience will benefit the Chamber
by helping it to make important
decisions that will have widespread
advantages for the city’s businesses and
people.’
‘I’m especially looking forward to tracing
my family tree at the Scotland’s People
Centre in Edinburgh and heading to
Orkney and standing in the middle of
the Ring of Brodgar.
Please do get in touch if there’s anything
you think I should go and visit when
I’m embarking on my travels, and
definitely say hello! You can follow me
on twitter @shionamc for all the updates
or on instagram @shionapics to see
photographs of my journey.’
http://www.realradio-scotland.co.uk/
shows/ewen-and-cats-guide-to-scotland/
shionas-challenges/a7411
Shiona McCallum (2004)
After tremendous success last year,
ex-Academy pupil Shiona McCallum
is gearing up for even more adventures
in 2014 as she travels the country as
Real Radio and Visit Scotland’s Roving
Reporter.
‘It really is my dream job; travelling our
wonderful country and trying the best
of what’s on offer in each region. When
the opportunity presented itself to me
last year, I couldn’t believe my luck. Like
many of us, I’ve been all over the world,
but not seen enough of what’s on my
doorstep.
‘Visit Scotland and Real Radio had
me on the longest zip wire in Scotland
in Dumfries and Galloway, staying in
bespoke cottages along the Caledonian
Canal and champagne tasting in St
Andrews. Last year we rolled out the
programme, not knowing what to
expect, but now it’s back by popular
demand.
‘My personal recommendation for the
wow factor is catching the train from
Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig. It’s
really a journey that stands out, not
just nationally, but globally. Why had
I not done this before? Taking in the
unparalleled scenery and breath-taking
views of the richest of landscapes, I was
in awe.
‘Now I don’t claim to be an ‘outdoorsy’
type and I certainly don’t own a pair of
robust hiking boots or even a practical
waterproof with a hood, but I’m up for
the challenge of being out and about
22
Etcetera
Katie wins her first world
title!
Former Glasgow Academy pupil Katie
Archibald (2012) won her first world
title and becomes Scotland’s first female
world champion in cycling.
Alongside teammates Joanna Rowsell,
Laura Trott and Elinor Barker – Katie
claimed Britain’s sixth women’s team
pursuit world title out of seven and a
first gold of the 2014 event at the Track
Cycling World Championships in Cali,
Colombia in late February. It was a first
world title for Katie, 19, after she joined
the squad full-time at their Manchester
training base in November. She has been
described as a ‘revelation’ since joining
the team.
Well done, Katie!
Deaths
James P Bannerman (1953)
24 May 1935 – 28 March 2014
James (Jim) Pirie Bannerman OBE died
peacefully at home in his sleep. Beloved
husband of Marjie, much-loved dad of
Grant and Julie and a loving grandfather.
T Bonnar Fulton (1971)
29 April 1954 – 29 December 2013
Bonnar packed a lot into his near 60
years. He was born at Dalmuir and
started school at Jackton Primary –
where he spent many hours of his first
week hiding his head below a sink
through shyness. Bonnar attended
Glasgow Academy from 1963 to 1971.
In his final year he played for the 1st XV
before leaving as a confident young man
with his own – very firm – ideas on
fashion and hairstyle!
Bonnar attended Strathclyde University
and obtained a BSc before joining the
family business, HF Electrical. By 1981
he was a major player as one of the
directors of the firm. He worked hard
and played hard. He took up fishing
and played golf, becoming a member
at Pollok. Bonnar also served the
community: his charitable work included
serving as Chairman of the Glasgow
branch of The British Heart Foundation.
T Bonnar Fulton
Bonnar Fulton died without pain,
worries or fears in late December. He
lived his life his way and made many
friends along the way. In early January
in a crowded Fenwick Parish Church a
memorial service was held. He gave his
farewell toast after the memorial service
at the Lochgreen Hotel ‘in absentia’.
Bonnar is survived by his wife, Susan,
and their son, Bonnar Euan. Susan was
his dear and caring wife to the end.
HM Fulton (1969)
Charlie Grant Gordon (1944) 21 August 1927 – 21 December 2013
Charles Grant Gordon was born in
Glasgow on 21 August, 1927, eldest son
of William Grant Gordon, a distiller
in the family firm, and Janet Grant, a
doctor. He was a great-grandson of the
founder, William Grant. He attended
Glasgow Academy between 1933 and
1939 before going on to Ardvreck and
then Rugby.
Aged 17, Charlie joined the Royal
Navy, just after the end of the war in
1945. Mostly based in Malta, he served
aboard the heavy cruiser HMS Sussex,
replenishing RN submarines, and ended
his service in 1948 on board the aircraft
carrier HMS Illustrious. He returned to
spend three years at Glasgow University,
where he qualified as a chartered
accountant in 1951 and joined the
family business. His father died just two
years later and – as eldest son – Charlie
became a director of the company.
He was later joined by brother, Sandy,
and their uncle, Eric Lloyd Roberts.
Together, they transformed the family
firm into a global player.
In 1954 Charlie married Margaret
Charlie Grant Gordon
Louise Eccles, a radiographer at the
city’s Western Infirmary, and settled in
Westbourne Gardens. Having served
as director, and sometime chairman of
Grant’s, he was named life president in
2008. Following the death of Louise,
as she was mostly known, he married
Francesca Canales and together they
pursued his other great loves beyond
his family, philanthropy and the whisky
business – ocean sailing. He and Louise
had started with the yacht Yala – their
three infant sons’ prams secured to the
mast! He and his second wife Francesca
made their last transatlantic crossing
when he was 85 and at the helm. He
was on his way to London and Scotland
for business meetings in November
when stricken by pneumonia. He died
in hospital in New York City with
Francesca and other family members by
his bedside.
Charles Gordon is survived by his
wife, Francesca, three sons from his
first marriage to Louise, and nine
grandchildren.
Peter R Gordon (1947)
13 August 1928 – 27 December 2013
Peter Russell Gordon’s early years
were spent in the Sind – a Himalayan
sub-valley of the Vale of Kashmir in
India – where his father was building
dams for the Indian Public Works
Department. He attended boarding
school in Scotland from the age of 4,
initially at Stanley House in Bridge
of Allan, before coming to board at
Glasgow Academy, where he appreciated
the kindness of Mrs Coleman Smith.
Peter thrived at The Academy. He was
an industrious pupil and won prizes in
Latin, General Knowledge, English and
Modern Languages. In his last few years
he was Captain
of Kelvin House,
captain of the 1st
XV and School
Captain. On
leaving school
– before taking
up his major
scholarship to
study Modern
Languages at
Corpus Christi
College,
Cambridge –
Peter completed
his national
Etcetera
23
service. He spent much of it in the
Intelligence Corps in Germany.
After graduating from Corpus, Peter
joined Burmah-Shell and spent a few
years in Calcutta. This was followed
by posts in London with the Joint Iron
Council and Portsmouth with the
Associated Coal and Wharf Company.
He was delighted when he gained late
entry into the Civil Service and became
a Principal in HM Treasury in 1966.
Peter felt at home intellectually at the
heart of government; he relished the
atmosphere and the work. He remained
at the Treasury, where he was promoted
to the level of Assistant Secretary until he
retired.
In his spare time, Peter was a voracious
reader and a regular walker. He
developed an interest in art and music
and, especially once he and his wife,
Isabel – whom he married in 1960 –
retired to the Scottish Borders, he went
regularly to concerts and exhibitions.
Peter died peacefully, after a short illness
in December. He is survived by Isabel,
two sons – John and Graeme – and his
brother Alastair (1949).
The Very Rev Dr William J Morris
(Former Academy Chaplain) 22 August
1925 – 31 October 2013
William James Morris KCVO, JP was
minister of Glasgow Cathedral for 40
years and served Glasgow Academy as
Chaplain from 1976 until 2004. He
was elected an Honorary Governor in
1995 and continued to take an interest
in – and support – The Academy in this
capacity until he died late last year.
moved to Rutland to live with David
(1978), who survives him. Dr Morris was
respected by all who knew him and will
be sorely missed.
Dr Morris was born in Cardiff and
educated at Cardiff High School. Later
he studied at the University of Wales,
graduating in arts from Cardiff and in
divinity from the United Theological
College at Aberystwyth in 1949. Later
he took his PhD at New College,
Edinburgh.
JAT Richards
Between 1949 and 1951, Dr Morris was
Assistant Minister at Canongate Kirk
and then Minister at the Presbyterian
Church of Wales at Cadoxton and Barry
Island. He then held further ministries at
Buckhaven and Peterhead before he was
elected Minister of Glasgow Cathedral
in 1967. He cherished the setting and
traditions of the Cathedral and quickly
earned the respect and affection of
his congregation. He also went on to
make an impact on the wider affairs of
the Church of Scotland, including as
convenor of the Kirk’s Advisory Board
between 1977 and 1990.
As well as serving as minister of the
Cathedral, Dr Morris was chaplain of
The Academy, Strathclyde Police, the
Trades House and the Royal Scottish
Automobile Club. He also served as
an honorary President of the Glasgow
Council of Social Service and Chairman
of the Iona Cathedral Trust, on the
Independent Broadcasting Authority
and was Dean of the Chapel Royal in
Scotland from 1991 until 1996, having
been one of the Queen’s chaplains since
1969.
Dr Morris married his wife, Jean Howie,
in 1952. (Mrs Morris went on to make
her own impact on Scottish life, most
notably as Chair of the Parole Board
for Scotland for 12 years.) They were a
devoted and inseparable couple. Indeed,
despite his myriad cathedral and civic
responsibilities, family life was always the
priority of Dr Morris. His son, David,
recalls the constant encouragement and
support of his father: ‘He would even
take me to rugby matches at Anniesland
with my kit – when not in a team –
in case someone had to call off and
volunteer me to play!’
Dr Morris retired in 2005. He was
pre-deceased by Jean and recently
The Very Rev Dr William J Morris
24
Etcetera
(Academy Staff 1960-1991)
Tony Richards had many facets.
Tributes sent to the family describe a
teacher ‘truly inspiring’ and ‘influential’
who ‘nurtured… my lifelong love of
running’, ‘brought out the best in me’
with ‘ innate good humour and gentle,
dry wit’.
I remember going to the annual
pantomime in the Cargill Hall sitting as a
young girl on those shiny, hard wooden
seats, seeing Dad replete in shiny blue
dress, his thin legs in white tights, wig,
full make up and a fairy wand.
Dad retired in 1991 to a remote
cottage near Tomintoul, doing The
Times crossword, tending his garden,
skiing when the snow fell and shooting
(legitimately) a red deer for the freezer
from his bedroom window.
Sadly this lifestyle ended abruptly with
a debilitating stroke in 2010. Dad bore
the limitations of a care home with
stoicism. Mostly. An independent spirit
whose wings beat against a frail body and
institutional bureaucracy. I once asked if
he spoke to other residents. ‘Yes, there
are some less glassy-eyed than others,’
was his wry reply.
It was fitting that Dad’s last journey was
from Bridge of Allan back to Tomintoul.
The hearse negotiated Glenshee, wheels
JAT Richards
crunching through the overnight frost
and first snows. Looking back, Dad
would have been impressed with the
next vehicle to summit, driven by a
former colleague who executed an
elegant 180° skid.
illness. Ged was the beloved husband of
the late Patricia, father of Michael and
Ian (Sandy) and a proud father-in-law,
grandpa and great-grandpa. Also brother
of Audrey and the late Alistair D Robin
(1943).
We read Larkin at the funeral with the
Minister concluding, ‘It is always a relief
to reach the end of Larkin without
encountering any swear words.’
John Ramsay Stevenson
(1936) Dad is now at peace in Tomintoul,
looking out to the surrounding hills. If
not his homeland, certainly where his
heart was happiest.
Apologies for any grammatical errors,
Dad!
Kate Richards (W1980)
Gerard M Robin (1946)
5 December 1928 – 31 December 2013
Gerard Marriot Robin (Ged) was a
pupil at Glasgow Academy from 1939
to 1946. On several occasions he was a
class captain and in Form 5 he played
for the 1st XI and won his 1st XV
colours. In his final year at school he was
also a member of the winning House
(Morrison) rugby 7s team.
After school, the Academical Club
became an important part of Ged’s life.
He joined the Club in 1947 and became
very involved at Anniesland. He played
for the Accies XV for many years and for
the 1st XI cricket team.
He died peacefully, at the Prince and
Princess of Wales Hospice, after a long
J Ramsay Stevenson
30 August 1919 – 27 January 2014
Ramsay was born in Kelvinside and
educated at Glasgow Academy. During
the war he was a Commissioned Officer
with the Highland Light Infantry and
then the King’s Own Scottish Borderers.
Ramsay saw service in Africa, Burma
and India. After WWII he worked in the
glass industry for 37 years.
A keen golfer, he was a member of
Buchanan Castle Golf Club and Glasgow
Golf Club. He enjoyed fishing and was a
past president of Milngavie Angling Club.
Over and above anything else, Ramsay
will be remembered for being a
gentleman, always impeccably polite
and smartly dressed right to the end. He
was predeceased by Doris, his wife of 53
years.
William Graham Desmond Wright
(1933)
5 August 1916 – 29 April 2014
William Graham Desmond Wright
(known as Desmond), one of our oldest
Academicals, has died at the age of 97
years. He was born in the middle of
the First World War, in Helensburgh,
and attended Larchfield School before
coming to the Academy for his senior
school years.
Helensburgh as the whole of Greenock
went up in flames after being bombed,
and spoke of the desolation of the
Clydeside blitz.
Desmond enjoyed his bachelor days
longer than most, getting married at 37
years old to Betty Weir having met her
at a Scripture Union conference in Alloa
soon after she had relocated to Milngavie
from London. They were married in
September 1953 and were inseparable for
54 years until she passed away in 2008.
He continued in Chemical Engineering
in Glasgow until his retirement, working
in the world of soaps and greases. He
was inordinately proud of supplying
the grease to the slipways of the great
Glasgow shipbuilders including, lastly,
the Queen Elizabeth II.
His voluntary Christian Service –
including many years running Crusader
groups and camps for boys – was central
to his life. He supported and worked
with Scripture Union Scotland, latterly
as their Chairman.
Desmond tolerated getting old but
did not dwell on it apart from latterly
lamenting the fact that he could not
understand why God had not taken him
‘home’ sooner to be reunited with Betty.
He finally passed away in his sleep at
the age of 97. He was hugely proud of
being an Academical and saw his period
at the school as central to his personal
development and lifelong service to his
fellow men and women.
W G Desmond Wright
In 1933 Desmond went to the Royal
College of Science and Technology
(now part of Strathclyde University) in
Glasgow to study chemistry. He then
taught Chemistry there for two years
until the Second World War started.
He and his contemporaries were in the
Officers’ Training Corps and spoke of
weekly parades wearing their kilts and
carrying rifles for interminable drill.
Tragically, most of them never came
back and this grieved him greatly as
he had rubbed shoulders with them
every day at the Academy. He was
in a reserved occupation, setting up
a sub-department of the Ministry of
Supply in Glasgow researching new
explosives. He combined this locally
with volunteer ambulance driving
for the Red Cross. He watched from
Etcetera
25
Picture Post
Dear Mark and Malcolm
I was astounded to see in the latest
edition of Etcetera, a photograph of me
teaching a Prep 4 class in 1962-63. I
had totally forgotten Cuisenaire rods,
but I do remember they were quite an
innovation. I know I enjoyed using them
and the boys are obviously engrossed in
what they are doing.
Yes, I am the same Doris Johnston as
the Doris Vaughan (née Johnston) who
visited the Academy last summer at the
age of 90!
The story in between these two times is
that in 1983 I retired at the age of 60. I
went over to America for a retirement
trip and stayed with friends there. I
was taken out and about a lot by Dr
Robert C Vaughan, the minister of 2nd
Presbyterian Virginia, who had done an
exchange pastorate with my minister in
Kilmacolm. His first wife who was with
him then had died of cancer about five
years earlier. To my amazement Bob
Vaughan asked me to marry him, which
I did and went to live in America. We
lived happily ever after – at least for 28
years till I lost him in April 2012.
On the same page is a photograph of
Harvest Camp and the caption ‘Mr
Gilmore (Tom Thumb)’. John Gilmour
(I think) taught us maths in class 2C. I
believe he had returned to teaching to
fill one of the staff vacancies during the
war. We called him ‘The Wee Man’,
never Tom Thumb, and we loved him
to the extent that at the end of the year
we bought him a pipe. I can still feel and
see the moment: the wee man with tears
filling his eyes and 13-year-olds knowing
they had brought joy to an old teacher’s
day.
So that is my story. I am now living in
a retirement community in Richmond,
Virginia, where I have a lot of friends. I
still play golf occasionally and score very
badly but I still enjoy it. So a big thank
you to Michael Warren for finding that
photograph and writing about it.
And the best to all my friends from
Glasgow Academy,
Doris
Doris (Johnson) Vaughan (Former Staff)
Dear Malcolm
Jimmy Murray (1950) evokes memories
of GA in Etcetera 22 – Anecdotage –
Winter 2013. Jimmy was my hero,
captain of the school. He lived in
Hyndland – as I did. On occasions, we
would travel on the same No 10 tram
to school and he might see fit to sit
beside me and chat. As a lowly second
former, I was flattered to receive this
mark of favour from such an eminence.
Ginger or not, I have never forgotten the
kindliness of the captain of the school.
26
Etcetera
I hope that these memories might be of
interest for Etcetera which gives me great
pleasure to read in this far way land.
Yours sincerely
Kerr Chatfield (1954)
Harvest Camp
have to say, however, with all due
deference to George, that it is not
as the phantom piper, nor as CCF
band Pipe Major, nor indeed as a
leader of Gurkhas that I remember
George, but as King of Middle
Study marble football. I will forever
see him, with trusty six-inch ruler,
playing the game on the middle
study floor while at the same time
supplying the sound effects of the
crowd.
Dear Malcolm
My most sincere thanks go to Sandy
Strang for supplying the copy of
the boarding house photograph that
I was seeking. The list of names
given with the picture was also a
Dear Malcolm
I much enjoy reading Etcetera and
congratulate you and the team involved
in its creation and production. My
wife and I receive quite a number of
school/ FP magazines and we think
that Etcetera comes out on top.
In the Winter 2013 edition you asked
if any of your readers could help to
identify members of a rugby team
photographed circa 1963. I happen
to appear in that photograph and will
have a go at supplying some of the
great help, and many memories and
personalities have been recalled.
The memories were enhanced with the
inclusion, in the current issue of Etcetera,
of the story of the ‘Phantom Piper of
Chester.’ I remember the incident well. I
Again, my sincere thanks to Sandy,
for the copy of the photograph,
to George for the additional
memories, and to you for making
the ‘meeting’ possible.
Kind regards
Alistair C McLean (1957)
names! Nicknames seem to stick in
the memory better than first names!
Other readers will have done better
than me but I hope that I have helped
a bit.
With best wishes
David Welsh (1964) and Academy
staff (1973-1978)
[Ed. Thanks to Peter Salmond (1963)
who identified most of the same
names and whose memory for faces
was almost as good as David’s.]
Back Row (l to r): Mr John Maxton, Windy Wintrup, .... Jeffrey, David Goodall, Ian Lang, ....
Coulthard, Pete Salmond, Moray Anderson
Front Row: David Welsh, Kenny Scott, Waddy Frame, Boogie Barclay, Ally Pretsell, W.A.G. Mackie,
Jock Gaylor
Last comments on Tony
Hatfield’s photo
In Etcetera 22, Arthur Hill identified
himself in the rugby photograph
sent in by Tony Hatfield. Douglas
Walker (1955) offers the following
comment:
‘Arthur, you were right and your
wife was wrong, It was not you,
bottom right. It was definitely
myself, Douglas Walker (full back).
However, did you have in your
family, a namesake, who was a
Scottish International tennis player in
the 1930s? If so, I would be pleased
to hear from you, as my father, Percy
Walker, was a contemporary of his.’
[Ed: Arthur, Douglas Walker can
be contacted through the External
Relations office.]
Nick Rogers (1956) has informed us
that he is the unidentified lad in the
back row, second from the right.
Etcetera
27
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