Angus Wright (B2 1978-82) is playing Claudius in the Almeida Theatre’s production of Hamlet (Andrew Scott as Hamlet & Juliet Stevenson as Gertrude).

The production is transferring to the Harold Pinter Theatre in the West End for a limited season.

‘The play scene is staged so that the royal party is seated in the front row of the Almeida and a news camera keeps track of their reactions. In close-up, the face of Claudius (the excellent Angus Wright) shifts by infinitesimal degrees as he watches the re-enactment of his crime. Instead of the usual stormy departure, his exit is all the more chilling for being so neat’ writes the Independent Review.

For his President’s weekend Adrian O’Loughlin (B3 1965-69) chose to visit Marlborough along with 60 Rotarians from the Leatherhead branch and Rotarians from France and Belgium. 

Clare Russell, the current Archivist, and her predecessor Terry Rogers (CR 1964-2014) conducted tours of the College Campus. 

Adrian tells us ‘both groups were bowled over by the quality of the tours. I myself learnt so much and people were talking about it throughout the rest of the weekend.'

If you are in Milan this week, Hannah Gauntlett (MO 1992-97) would like to invite you to her event, MYHOMEGALLERY POSTCARTS POP-UP SHOP, this Thursday 6th April 3pm-11pm.

The event takes place at co.arch Studio, Viale Col di Lana 6A, Milan FuoriSalone, part of Milan Design Week.

You can find out all about it here.

Tickets are now on sale for the 25-year reunion of the class of 1992 to be held in Court at Marlborough on Saturday 10th June 2017.

Catch up with old friends and reminisce about school days at a Drinks Reception in Court before a Hog Roast in the marquee on the lawn. There will also be an opportunity to take a look around College and tour your old House before drinks.

Click here for ticket details.

Kate Guinness (NC 1998-2003) and Julian de Segundo (C2 1999-2004) married in October 2016.

Congratulations from The Marlburian Club.

Congratulations to Charlie Norman (BH 2009-14) who has been included in the England Students squad to face Ireland Universities on Sunday 2nd April.

Norman impressed at a training day in Coventry and has been named in the 23-man squad for the contest, that will take place in Oxford.

England Students begin international camp today in Oxford to prepare for Ireland. The fixture against French Students is scheduled for Friday 7th April. Click here to read the full story.

An autobiography from Ed Gorman (C3 1974-79) draws on his time as a journalist in Afghanistan and for the Times of London, covering conflicts in Northern Ireland, the Gulf, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Balkans.

It is due to be released on 17th July 2017. Please click here for further information.

The Marlburian Club President, Tim Martin-Jenkins (B3 1961-65) has arranged for OMs to be able to attend the Hong Kong Society Sector Focussed Discussion on Fintec & Start Ups. 

All details are below. If you would like to attend please book via this website.

Innovative HK: What’s next for FinTech and start-ups in Hong Kong?
Date: Tuesday 25 April 2017
Venue: Linklaters LLP, One Silk Street, London EC2Y 8HQ
Time: 6.00 for 6.30pm start
Cost: Free (HKS members) / £10 per person (non-members)

Hong Kong has become one of the world’s most popular FinTech start-up hubs: since 2014, the number of start-ups in Hong Kong has increased by nearly 50% to over 1,500 as at mid-2016. A Deloitte report last year named Hong Kong as one of the global top five FinTech hubs.
The Hong Kong Government has been strongly promoting the city as a technology “super-connector” for Asia, with an unprecedented allocation of £1.6 billion in its 2016 budget to promote technology and innovation development. Amidst the uncertainty created by the Brexit vote which threatens London’s crown as the global capital of FinTech, UK’s FCA and Hong Kong Monetary Authority entered into a Cooperation Agreement in December 2016, to foster collaboration between the two regulatory authorities in promoting FinTech and financial innovation.

In the context of such trends, this event is a timely examination of Hong Kong’s FinTech and start-ups landscape.

If you are:
•    working or investing in the FinTech or start-ups sectors;
•    have a general interest in the FinTech or start-ups; and/or
•    interested in working or investing in Hong Kong
then this is the event for you.

Join us for a panel discussion of experts and thought leaders to explore future opportunities for development and investment in Hong Kong:

Keynote Speaker: Jeff Tijssen, EMEA Head of FinTech and Partnerships at Capco
Panellists: Thorsten Terweiden, Deputy Head (FinTech) of InvestHK London
Reijo Pold, Partner, Innovation Architect at SILK Ventures
Moderator: Julian Cunningham-Day, Partner and Co-head of TMT sector team at Linklater

This event is generously hosted by Linklaters LLP and will be followed by a networking drinks reception.

On the evening of Friday 24th March, the annual Scottish Dinner was once again hosted at the New Club and was well supported from across the generations.

It was undoubtedly this mix of ages from current undergrads to our most senior OM - who left C2 in 1947 - that made for such a successful and enjoyable evening.

Click here to read a full review.

The Whitehouse Restaurant, started in 2003 by Jane Stuart-Smith (B1 1978-80), has been awarded the Good Food Guide's Scottish Local Restaurant of the Year 2016.

Jane started the restaurant with Sarah Jones - please click here to find out more about The Whitehouse.

Congratulations to Ursula Lewis (B1 1987-89) who has been appointed to a new business management role within the Wealth Management division of Deutsche Bank.

Having grown up in a family of dentists, William Taylor (PR 2001-06) has launched a dental healthcare company providing a range of dental products that are free from harsh chemicals.

You can find out all about Taylor’s 32 on their website here.

Four OMs returned to Marlborough on Thursday 16th March for a Fives match against the College.

Pictured with Tom Kiggell, Master in Charge of Fives, are Ollie Fairweather (SU 2008-13), Louis Fulford-Smith (PR 2009-14), Guy Davies (SU 2008-13) and David George-Carey (C1 2008-13).
The OM quartet are all part of the Bristol University Fives squad and went away with a win, 84-82.

The engagement is announced between Emma L Pick (EL 2002-2007), younger daughter of Mr and Mrs Robert Pick (CR 1980-2012, Master MCM 2012 - present) of Marlborough, Wiltshire, and James, son of Commodore and Mrs Christopher Silcock of Hambledon, Hampshire.

See Georgia Cummings (MO 2000-05) and her hugely successful catering business featured in the Evening Standard’s article about Female Entrepreneurs.

Click here to read the full article.

Congratulations to Sophie Spink (MO 2009-14) & Sophie Shakespeare (EL 2011-16) who represented Oxford University Hockey Club in the varsity match.

Oxford beat Cambridge 4-0 with Shakespeare on the scoresheet on what was a memorable day.
It was the second successive year that Oxford have had two OMs playing in the fixture.

In 2016, Annie Hazlitt (MO 2009-14) joined Spink in the line-up.

Since leaving Marlborough College Mark Davison (B3 1972-75) has been involved in various horse riding ventures around the world.

He is the Director of Venture Co, a company specialising in horse riding holidays around the world. Two projects that he has been particularly pleased to be involved in are Polo for Heroes and Heroes Ride for Recovery.

The first is Polo for Heroes and as Mark explains: “The story begins with ‘Polo for Heroes’ which is an idea that recognises the intuitive strength that lies within horses and uses it to assist the recovery of injured service personnel. It doesn’t matter if the injured soldier has ever ridden before or not; the idea is that you introduce him/her to a horse and the innate ability of a horse to look after a rider kicks in.

"Gradually confidence builds and self-esteem returns. It’s a powerful, natural therapy! Using polo as a focus is just a means to an end, and works very well. It’s amazing, after a few months you watch these guys ride and you really can’t tell which ones are amputees and which ones able-bodied; until they dismount, when it becomes quite apparent."

You can find out all about the event itself on the website here.

Indian Adventure...

The second is an event Mark is organising in Rajasthan, India. His team are taking six recovering forces personnel and six able-bodied riders (the latter not necessarily ex-services), riding in buddy-pairs for mutual support, on a 14-day trail ride following in the footsteps of the Shekhawati Brigade. The Shekhawati was originally a British cavalry regiment and has over 200 years’ operations heritage. The Shekhawati Brigade is now part of the Indian army, re-designated “61st Cavalry” and the last remaining mounted regiment. The experience is designed to contribute to both physical and mental recovery. Click here for further information.

Having trained as a lawyer at a firm in the City, Laura Dowley (EL 2000-05) is now working for an NGO called Asylum Access in Mexico.

Their offices are housed in a migrant shelter run by a group of nuns in the state of Chiapas near the southern border with Guatemala. Most of the migrants spend a few days in the shelter where they can wash, rest and receive medical attention before carrying on their journey north to the U.S. The organisation represents those who want to stay and be recognised as refugees in Mexico. The majority of clients are Hondurans fleeing gang violence at home but people arrive in our offices from all over Latin America and the Caribbean.

Aside from the legal work, she also campaigns for refugee and migrant rights in Mexico and across Latin America.

On retirement five years ago, Michael Willmot (LI 1960-64) was presented with the opportunity to stage a rescue on the beautiful listed Helmsdale Station.

The stationmaster’s accommodation and ticket office are now available for a unique holiday let experience.

You can find out more about the repair and refurbishment project here and about prices and availability here.

Marlburian Club Women's Network Mentoring Event took place on Tuesday 7th March at Rathbone's.

The gathering included lively discussion, excellent networking opportunities and a real show of interest in the newly-launched mentoring programme.

Click here for a gallery of images.

Nick Nelson (C2 1984-89) is co-founder of Arcadia Education for Art History, together with his wife Katie.

It aims to share Art History through illustrated talks or lectures, bespoke gallery visits, study workshops, visits to cultural sites in the UK and abroad plus private tuition.

Arcadia has worked with Soho House in the Cotswolds, London, Berlin, Istanbul and New York, in addition to Ellenborough Park, Barnsley House, The Painswick, Cowley Manor and many other venues to deliver talks, study days and cultural events whilst endeavouring to bring in food and drink into the equation!

Nick is Head of History of Art at Cheltenham College where he teaches Art, History of Art, Architecture, Music, Classical Civilisation, Theology, Philosophy & Ethics. With a growing interest in media work, Nick is also an arts correspondent on Radio Gloucestershire and has written content for Radio 3 and 4 and Perspectives Magazine. He is registered with the Atlantic speaker Bureau, Rush Talent for Corporate training and the JLA agency, London.

Many congratulations to Patrick Woodroffe (PR 1967-68) who won an award at the 9th Knight of Illumination Awards this week.

Patrick was presented with "The Ambersphere Solutions Award for Arena" for his work on the Adele 2016 World Tour.

You can read all about the work of his company WBD here.

From 7th March to 8th April, the Royal Court London will be putting on The Kid Stays in the Picture a play directed by Simon McBurney (LI 1971-75).

The play explores the rise and fall of the legendary film producer Robert Evans against the backdrop of a changing America through the second half of the 20th century. Simon McBurney is an actor, writer, director and co-founder of award winning theatre company Complicite.

You can read more about Simon and the play in this article in the Guardian and you can book tickets here.

Rosie Richards (EL 2010-15), Camilla Dunhill (MM 2010-15) and Bella Imi (EL 2011-16) are part of a Capella group called Alternotives.

The group has produced a version of God Only Knows (famous from Love Actually) which is available from iTunes or Spotify.

You can see the video here on YouTube.

Nick Higham (SU 2006–11) is involved the Ashinaga Africa Initiative, an academic leadership programme that aims to provide an opportunity for higher education at the world’s leading institutions of higher education to orphaned students from 49 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The goal of the program is to nurture future leaders who will contribute to democratic realization, economic development and poverty eradication in their home countries post-graduation. Ashinaga hopes that education will empower these students to overcome their difficult backgrounds and bring positive change to their societies. One outstanding student from each Sub-Saharan African country is selected to join the program every year. Ashinaga will provide these students with the training, opportunities and finances necessary to study at academic institutions around the world.

Nick is wondering if there are any OMs out there with knowledge of or experience across Sub-Saharan Africa who could help to encourage as many gifted pupils as possible to apply for a scholarship. If so, please get in touch with by email here.

On this day in 1915, Ronald Owen Lagden (LI 1903-08) became the fifth England international of 27 to die in service during the First World War.

His single cap for England came in the 1911 match versus Scotland at Twickenham, where England won 13-8. Lagden, playing in the back row, converted two of England’s three tries.  After coming down in 1912 he took a post at Harrow School as a mathematics master, continuing to play rugby for Richmond, where he was vice-captain in 1912-13.

Click here to read the full story as part of the Rugby Football Union's First World War commemorations.

Ariadne, an international organisation of women making social and political theatre to inspire change run by Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97), presents and evening of fun, friendship and fundraising in aid of homelessness in London on Thursday 9th March. 

On New Year’s Eve a kind, popular man called Paddy died of natural causes, exacerbated by the cold. It’s fair to say he gave up. He was 52-years old. He was homeless.

Every week after singing at St Martin in the Fields, Susannah Tresilian would spend some time with Paddy – who would be sitting outside Leicester Square tube station (Exit 1) come rain or shine. He loved the fact that she sang in a choir and would brush away questions about how he was with ‘So did you sing well tonight, did you?’

After a few weeks of not seeing him, Susannah contacted Streetlink to inform them that he was missing. She subsequently discovered that he had passed away from his son, Patrick, who has ‘inherited’ Paddy’s patch, his tent, his dog… his homelessness.

This is outrageous in our modern 21st century London. So we are channelling our anger into something positive and useful: a fun evening of gigs, gags and information about what we can all do to help!  Oh, and raising some money along the way.

The event features Sara Pascoe, some of the Showstoppers improvised musical comedy, the hilarious Ruby Dolls and the St Martin Choir’s choir themselves and all proceeds to The Connection and Streetlink.

You can buy tickets here - but if you can’t go and would still like to help you can donate to Streetlink and The Connection directly.

Click here for a Guardian feature.

Piers Nicholson (B3 1948-52) has sent us this fascinating insight in to the development of his sundial making enterprise, Spot On Sundials.

Sundials have been around for many centuries.  Horizontal sundials are the most common and well-known type of sundial.  The basic features of their design have not changed for 500 years.  They have a gnomon to cast the shadow, which has to be at an angle to the horizontal equal to the latitude (511/2 degrees in London). The shadow is cast on a horizontal dialplate marked out with hourlines appropriate to the latitude

I first got interested in sundials in 1975 when I noticed that the shadow of a vertical stake in my garden cast a shadow on a patio.  I thought I had built a sundial, and marked out 9, 10, 11 and so on.  My hope that I had built a sundial were dashed when a month later, the shadow at 9 was nowhere near the 9!  

That sundial would have worked very well at the North Pole, since the gnomon was at 90 degrees to the horizontal. It took a few years to get back on track, and I then built two or three painted wooden sundials for the walls of houses. That led by accident to my getting on the council of the British Sundial Society, which in turn led to my reflecting on the reasons why garden sundials were mostly fairly awful.  They often had loose gnomons, or curved ones, or the gnomon set at the wrong angle, or hour lines inappropriate to the latitude or other defects.  And, worst of all, most of them were sold with no instructions on how to set them up accurately.

A trip to Guatemala, where the pyramids are all oriented to the cardinal points, suggested to me a way of making a scientific accurate sundial which would be easy to set up. The innovation was to make the gnomon out of two plates separated by a narrow air-gap which would produce a line of light at noon time when the sun is directly overhead. The importance of this is that the sundial can be set up absolutely accurately to true north solely by orienting it so that the line of light is there at the exact time of solar noon, which is obtainable from tables on the Internet, such as my Solar Noon website. 

I took two years to find an economical way of making these sundials at a reasonable price.  Eventually, I found a supplier in India who, after five attempts, produced a prototype matching specifications, and Spot-On Sundials was born.

Sundials are latitude specific, so there are five models, covering latitudes from Northern Scotland to the southern United States, and 1 model for the Southern Hemisphere (where the dial plate has to be lettered up in the reverse directions). They are now made in three sizes, and all of them can have a short message engraved on the side of the gnomon. 

In the last 15 years, we have sold around 2,000 of these innovative sundials; most have gone to the UK or to North America, but there are a good number in many other countries of the world. 
In 2007, I introduced a range of stainless steel sundials on the same basic principle. These are considerably more expensive, but they give very attractive reflections, and glint from a distance to attract the curious. They are also more robust, and thus more suitable for public open spaces. So far, around 120 of these have been sold. 

My initial hopes that a waiting world would flock to purchase one of these innovate sundials has not been met, but they have never-the-less achieved some modest success, and have also, I hope, introduced a number of people to the fascinating world of sundials.

As part of the BBC's 'My Generations 1990s' strand, Lewis Borg-Cardona’s (BH 1973-77) latest network radio show, 'An Insider's Guide To The 90s’, airs on Radio 6 Music this Friday 3rd March from 7-9pm.

Presented by Steve Levine, the show is programmed and written by Lewis and includes interviewees such as Suede's Bernard Butler; Blur's Graham Coxon; The Longpigs' Crispin Hunt; Menswear's Matt Everitt; Space's Tommy Scott and Franny Griffiths; plus record producer John Leckie.

Music from The Stone Roses to The Sundays; from Teenage Fanclub to Tricky... and much more besides. Tune in, this Friday 3rd March.

The Palmer Marlborough Beagles 65th Anniversary Dinner will be held on Friday 24th March. 

There will be drinks at 6.30pm in Adderley followed by 7pm Dinner in the Common Room Dining Room.
 
On the following Tuesday 28th March, there will be a Lawn Meet in Court at 1pm followed by trail hunting at Temple Farm, Rockley, after which we have been invited for tea by Countess Goess-Saurau. 

If you would like to attend please contact Sean Dempster, Master in Charge of Beagling, on smdd@marlboroughcollege.org or call 01672 892240

OMs are very welcome to attend a private view of Regrowth - a solo show of work by mixed media artist Jane Corbett.

Exquisitely detailed sculptures and wall pieces reveal her preoccupation with the power of the miniature in the natural world. The intricate forms of seed heads, pollen, lichen and moss all echo through her pieces, “I am intrigued by the power of tiny plants and seeds to lie dormant, regrow and even reclaim the concrete of the urban environment.”

In her latest pieces, ranging from 4 inches high to 4 foot high, there are surprising combinations of materials such as silk and concrete, resin and linen, pewter and embroidery thread, brought together in an extraordinary collection of intricate life forms.

The private view will take place on Friday 3rd March at 7pm in the Mount House Gallery.

Peter Welsford (CO 1939-41) has co-authored the chief article “Is Francis Bacon the true author of Shakespeare’s plays?" in issue 94 of The Caduceus Magazine.

The article is in two parts and is concluded in issue 95. Both issues are held in the College Library and you can order back copies of the magazine here.

The guest speakers for the OM Women’s Network Mentoring event on Tuesday 7th March 2017 at have been announced.

There will be a panel discussion focused on how to get the most out of mentoring. Whatever our ages, backgrounds, life choices or journeys in and out of employment, we can probably all benefit from the wisdom of others - giving it and receiving it. The panel will include;

Catherine Stewart (LI 1974-76) - Senior Advisor to Interel and Partner at Jericho Chambers. Catherine also holds a variety of non executive and pro bono Board positions related to education, women's professional development and entrepreneurship.

Michelle Jana Chan (TU 1990-92) - Journalist, Broadcaster & Author. Michelle is the current Deputy Editor of the Telegraph's Ultra Travel Magazine.

Kristy Castleton (CO 1994-96) - Founder, Rebel & Soul and Calyx Tech, Singapore. With offices in London, Shanghai, Amsterdam & Singapore, Kristy's company delivers brand experiences for some of the biggest global brands.

Samantha Peter (MM 1991-93) - Head of Marketing at Google for Education. Samantha manages a global team that creates dozens of programs to help advance innovative thinking in education through the use of technology. Co-created the internationally acclaimed Google Science Fair, an online global science competition for teenagers that encourages them to change the world through scientific inquiry and invention.

To sign up for the event, to be held at Rathbones in London, please click here.

In his role at Camborne Energy Storage Limited, Harry Vickers (SU 2002-05) was invited by the Confederation of Indian Industry and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to speak at three different events in India.

Over three days, Harry spoke in New Delhi, Hyderabad and Bangalore about Camborne's experience of developing the first Tesla Powerpack batteries in Europe and how the energy storage industry is growing in the UK and what lessons can be applied to the Indian market.

Prior to the 30-year reunion happening in May, Kevin Chan (B2 1982-87), James Geddes (TU 1983-87), Neil Gardner (TU 1985-87), Nicholas Mak (B1 1983-87) and Christopher Ng (B2 1983-87) had an impromptu meeting in Singapore where they are either based or do business.

For a full list of forthcoming events - including reunions for the class of 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1986, 1987, 1992 and 1997 - please click here.

A new feature has been launched on this website, aiming to share OM memories with others.

In the first instalment, Tim Halton (B1 1945-49) writes about the snow of 1947 and how, with no organised sport able to be played, pupils were soon found tobogganing around Granham Hill.

Click here to read more.

 

James Geddes (TU 1982-87) has set up a residential search and acquisition business called GWD.

The initials GWD refer to partners James Geddes, Deborah Walker and Hugh Dixon who, between them, have over 50 years’ experience of the central London residential property market.

The clients, of all nationalities, are those looking only for the best homes or investments with honest and concise advice and they provide advice on budgets from £500,000 to in excess of £100,000.

Click here to visit their website.

The second part of the Frank Gardner (LI 1974-79) documentary following his journey through Papua New Guinea to fulfil Frank's lifelong dream of seeing birds of paradise is on tonight on BBC2 at 9pm.

If you missed it, part one is available on BBC iPlayer here.

On Tuesday 7th February, 15 OMs returned to Marlborough to give a series of enlightening talks about careers and the future.

The Club would like to thank each and every one who gave up their time to help young Marlburians who are plotting their own future paths. The 'speed dating' style evening is an annual event organised by the Guidance Department.

Tom Adams (CO 2002-07), Tech Start-ups
Oliver Azis (LI 2001-06), Talent Agent
Archie Chappel (C2 2004-09), Investment Manager
Noah Devereux (B1 2001-06), Charity
James Gerard (SU 2004-09), Property Development
Louise Harvey (NC 2004-09), Financial PR
Cass Horowitz (C3 2004-09), Journalism
Louise Kingham (SU 2008-10), Clinical Research
Xanthe Kueppers (SU 2002-04), Law
Patrick McGown (LI 2004-09), Medicine
Georgia Parker (CO 2007-09), Deloitte Gap Year/Graduate scheme
Fred Puckle Hobbs (LI 2004-09), Investment Banking
Henry Price (CO 2006-11), Engineering
Molly Rowan Hamilton (MO 2004-09), Brand Strategist/Design Agency
Harry Vickers (SU 2000-05), Renewable Energy

Having taken the plunge to take their gap year together, Oliver Bell (BH 1993-98) and Ravi Sabharwal (BH 1993-98) quickly found a love and knack for travel.

Most graduates yearn to have a foot in the door, but these two defied the ‘norm’ and started a business together post-university. Today, they’re the successful Co-Founders of Oliver’s Travels. They were recently interviewed by the Evening Standard, detailing their journey from working in a spare bedroom to running a well-oiled business with a team of 25 and growing.

They have remained in contact with the College and offer internships to OMs. So, if you’ve got the same fire in your belly, please email the Club and we will put you in touch with them!

Read their interview in the Standard here.

Leading racehorse trainer, Ralph Beckett (C2 1985-89) returned to Marlborough on Thursday 2nd February to give a talk to the Biology Society.

After leaving Marlborough in 1989, he spent a year in Australia and two seasons as a stable lad with Jimmy Fitzgerald in Yorkshire. He moved on to Ireland and two-and-a-half years as Head Man to leading National Hunt trainer Arthur Moore. He then had a short spell with Martin Pipe, before landing the job of assistant trainer to Peter Walwyn in 1996. He was in that role for three and a half years, at which point Peter retired, handed over the license to Ralph in 2000, and rented him his yard at Windsor House in the centre of Lambourn. Ralph trained 105 winners there, including Penkenna Princess winner of the Group 3 Fred Darling and 2nd in the Irish 1000 Guineas, and Come On Jonny winner of the November Handicap.

In late 2005, Chris Harper invited him to move to his estate at Whitsbury, as David Elsworth was moving to Newmarket. Ralph arrived with 60 horses and increased the size of the string thanks to Look Here's triumph in the 2008 Epsom Oaks, and Muhannak's win in the 2008 Breeders Cup Marathon at Santa Anita under Pat Smullen. In all he trained 244 winners in five years at Whitsbury.

To Sean Dempster's review of Ralph's talk to the Biology Society, please click here.

This weekend’s episode of Call the Midwife saw the departure of Emerald Fennell’s (NC 1998-2003) character, Patsy, from the series.

The Radio Times does assure us, however, that she will be back! We look forward to hearing what Emerald is up to next.

After his successful run in King Lear and subsequent book on his experiences, King Lear in Brooklyn, (see OM News 18th October 2016), Michael Pennington (PR 1957-61) appeared in Endeavour on Sunday. If you missed it, you can watch it here.

Nick Woodeson (B2 1963-67) can currently be seen playing Robert Thoyt, Delaney's lawyer, in Taboo, the regular character Artem Chernik in Holby City and was also in an episode of Delicious on Sky1. 

And finally, Jack Whitehall’s (B1 2001-06) national tour, Jack Whitehall: At Large, is now on. All the venues and dates can be seen on his website here.

If you are an actor or performer and are appearing in any up-and-coming production, please do let us know at marlburianclub@marlboroughcollege.org

Samantha Cameron (B3 1987-89) has launched a new fashion label, Cefinn.

Named after the initials of her children, Cefinn is a ready-to-wear women’s capsule collection designed with the busy, modern woman in mind.

The Cefinn Spring/Summer 2017 will soon be available to buy at Selfridges and Net-A-Porter as well as on www.cefinn.com, launching Monday 13th February.

“I wanted to create an urban uniform for busy women who love fashion. I felt there was a gap in the market for a designer British brand at a contemporary price point offering a capsule wardrobe that takes you from day to evening," she said.

Commando General -The Life of Major General Sir Robert Laycock KCMG CB DSO

In this biography, the author, Richard Mead (SU 1960-65), reveals the detail of this fine soldier's character and superb military record.

Click here for more information or to order a copy.

A party of 26 B1 pupils, parents and staff have just returned from two days in Ypres, led by former Head of History David Du Croz – Chairman of the World War One Committee – and John Carroll (HM, B1).

Fifteen graves of OMs from B1, B2 and B3 were visited in different sites. At each resting place or memorial, a cross was laid by a current pupil and the soldiers’ citations were read. On Saturday evening in Ypres, the group took part in the Last Post service at The Menin Gate, reading and laying a wreath. This was followed by a meal that replicated the dinner attended by 44 OMs on January 16th 1917.

Will Sandbach (B1 Sh) and Archie Del Mar (B1 Sh) penned their thoughts upon returning from what was a moving and memorable journey.

Click here for a gallery of images or to read the pupil reviews.

Piers Nicholson (B3 1948-52) reports that he has recently become a Founder Freeman of the Guild of Entrepreneurs, which, in about six years’ time, is expected to join the 110 Livery Companies of the City of London.

“The Livery Companies trace their origins to medieval times, when they started as trade guilds,” he explains.

“Their objectives were to enforce standards, restrict entry to the trade to apprentices of existing members, and to look after members of the guild who had fallen on hard times. The older ones have benefitted from bequests, often of small fields on the London outskirts which now bring in substantial rents.

“In 1900, there were around 70 companies, but nowadays three or four new ones are started every decade. The Guild of Entrepreneurs is somewhat unusual, because it has a very young membership (except for me!) and is very well-balanced in terms of gender and ethnicity. So it is a pretty sparky group.”

Every second Tuesday, they have a gathering in Abchurch Street. Aspirant members are encouraged to come to learn a bit more about the guild, the members, and the atmosphere of  events. If you would like to come sometime, please email Piers Nicholson here or visit their website.

This is a marvellous opportunity to meet a wide variety of interesting people sharing a common entrepreneurial interest, and to participate in a part of the ancient traditions of the City of London.

OMs can pledge for a discounted copy of Song, a novel by Michelle Jana Chan (TU 1990-1992).
 
Set in the post-slavery of the 19th century, this is a story about a young boy, Song who travels from China to British Guiana, in South America, to seek his fortune. He begins his new life as an indentured labourer on a sugar plantation, eventually finding success as a gold prospector. Yet not all his dreams are realised; he never succeeds in sharing his wealth with his family back in China, nor is he accepted into the ruling colonial class. He is between places, between peoples, and increasingly aware that his circumstances of birth carry more weight than his accomplishments or good deeds. He will forever live as an outsider.

In many ways, Song's story is a contemporary one. He travels halfway around the world searching for a better life. We live today during the greatest movement of people made up of individuals such as Song. For many of these economic migrants, as it was for Song, they never find a place they can truly call home.
 
OMs can pledge for a discounted copy of the book in advance. Click here to become part of Song's story. Enter the discount code ‘Marlborough' on check out for a 10% discount.
 
Michelle Jana Chan is an award-winning journalist who began her career with Newsweek magazine in New York, Beijing and London, before moving into radio and then television as a news producer for CNN. She is now Deputy Editor of the Telegraph’s Ultra travel magazine, the BBC's presenter of Global Guide and Contributing Editor at Condé Nast Traveller with a weekly column. She is also on Twitter @michellejchan

Two job opportunities have been sent to us from Yachtmasters.

Please see the Job board page here for more information.

The College is also recruiting for a number of positions, with details found here.

The 2017 annual AGM & Dinner will take place this Friday 27th January and there is still time for you to book your place(s).
 
The event is once again being hosted at Lord's, courtesy of Mike Griffith (C3 1957-62), President of the Marlborough Blues CC.

OM cricketers are encouraged to try and get together a group of friends/peers for what is always a very enjoyable dinner.

To purchase tickets please contact Tom Montagu-Pollock (C2 1996-01) via email.

Students for Happiness was set up by Arthur Kay (PR 2004-09) in 2012 whilst studying Architecture at UCL having realised that there was very little provided for Students in terms of information advice and support re mental health wellbeing and happiness.

The drop-out rate, especially in architecture students, was hugely high due to pressure put on students by themselves and others and they found they could not find adequate support from their mentors nor their peer group.

There is a Students for Happiness event happening next month in Oxford where Professor Lord Richard Layard will address a gathering at Oriel College about how we can  improve happiness on a global scale, Dr Michael Plant will focus on what happiness is, how we measure it and how we can improve our own happiness and Adrian Sell will representative his charity Basic Needs, which works on mental health interventions in the developing world.

Click here for more information.

It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death on Sunday 15 January 2017 of Diana Vazquez, who was a member of the Support Staff from 1990-2013 and a much loved tutor in Littlefield from 1997-2009.

OMs are welcome to attend the Art Scholars' Exhibition Preview evening this Friday 20th January.

The event will begin at 7pm and run through until 8.30pm in the Mount House Gallery. Artist in residence Timothy Betjeman and the art scholars have been working hard towards the new year exhibition with their work on show from Friday.

Ray Ward
Visual Art Coordinator, Mount House Gallery

Congratulations to the following Old Marlburians who have been offered places at Oxford and Cambridge this year.

At a time when competition for entry to these elite institutions is higher than ever, it is testament to their abilities and attitudes that these candidates have been selected for a wide range of courses.

Oscar Idelji-Tehrani (LI 2010-15) - Oxford
Maeve Mahony (NC 2011-16) - Oxford
Henry Martin (PR 2011-16) - Oxford
Tom Moody (C1 2011-16) - Oxford
Georgia Vyvyan (MO 2011-16) - Cambridge

Antonia Packard (SU 2002-04) is the Creative Director and part of a small team that has set up Head Talks. Head Talks is a website, that has just recently been launched, that hosts short talks that will inform, inspire and engage everyone with an interest in mental wellbeing.

The website aims to share stories about mental illness and, in doing so, reduce the stigma surrounding it and bring mental illness into the open. You’ll find psychiatrists, academics, yogis, authors, meditation experts, politicians, nutritionists and many others with a keen interest in the mind. But you will also find people who have suffered from mental ill health, who have managed their illness and live a stable, happy and purposeful life.

It really is a fabulous resource on a historically taboo topic, Antonia asks you to please share it to open up the conversation and help those that are quietly settling for an unhappy life or are in desperate straits and urgently need information and inspiration.

In our 2015 Marlburian Club magazine, we featured the app Plantsnapp, launched by George Williams (BH 2004-09) in 2014.

Since then the app has gone from strength to strength. George has collaborated with US company Garden Compass, and the new revamped app is the result. For £24 a year, or £3 per month, a subscriber can have unlimited access to more than 50 experts around the world who will share their knowledge and wisdom and fill your ‘Care Calendar’ with monthly tips to encourage you to look after your plants.

You can read more about the app here.

One hundred years ago 44 Old Marlburians sat down to an eight-course dinner in the small garrison town of Bailleul close to the fighting around Ypres.

Today in Norwood Hall the kitchens have replicated three of those courses for the College lunch and the choir will sing the school song.

Next weekend a group of pupils from B1 with their parents will visit the Western Front around Ypres and commemorate with a dinner those who fought there 100 years ago.

Please click here to view the menu card, including a full list of Old Marlburians who attended the 1917 dinner.

The Club are delighted to hear of two OM engagements, Bob and Ali Pick have announced the engagement of Laura (EL 1999-2004).

The engagement is announced between Laura, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs Robert Pick (CR 1980-2012, Master MCM 2012 - present) of Marlborough, Wiltshire, and William, elder son of Dr and Mrs Mark Linley-Adams of East Morden, Dorset.

Rebecca Hony (MO 1998-2003 has announced her engagement to Alexander Scott. 

Congratulations to all.

If you left Marlborough less than 12 years ago, we would love you to come back and chat to the Hundreds about your career sector on Tuesday 7th February.

Even if you are only a year or two into your career or on a graduate training scheme, the pupils would love to hear about how you got there.

We can promise a lively evening and we’ll even treat you to a curry supper in Common Room afterwards! We’d love to hear from you, if you would like to come along on Tuesday 7th February.

Travel expenses will be paid. Please click here and email the Guidance Department for more information.

Join us for the Marlburian Club Law Networking Event on Tuesday 17th January in London.

As part of our growing list of Professional Groups, the Marlburian Club is delighted to be launching the Marlburian Club Law Network and would like to invite you to attend the inaugural event on Tuesday 17th January at the offices of CIPA (Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys) in London.

This will be an excellent opportunity to meet, network and socialise with fellow OMs working within the legal Book Nowprofession. You will also be able to register interest in mentoring, giving career advice  or work experience to current or recently graduated Marlborough pupils.

The evening will run from 6pm - 8pm and the cost of the evening will be £15, to include drinks and nibbles. Click here for further information.

The Harold Radford Rose Bowl is the squash tournament open to all pupils, OM’s and Beaks. It will be held at College from 2.30pm on Saturday 14th January 2017. The holder is Nick Fallowfield (B1 1981-85) with other recent winners including Charlie Horrell (B2 1976-81) & Mark Skull (C1 1975-79).

It was first held in 1954, the trophy donated by Harold “Tich” Radford. Tich made a subsequent gift to the Marlborough Courtiers in 1989 and attended the tournament that year at the College for the last time before his death in 1990. He made a lasting impression on the 1989 pupils with his attending nurse and large glass of orange squash and scotch. The tournament has evolved and now incorporates the OV v College match.

The format of the day will be a round robin followed by finals, there will be plenty of squash for all entrants.

All entrants welcome, please email Alex Wildman (C2 1984-89).

This new 35-minute documentary explores the past, present and future of the Marlborough Mound. This film uncovers the history of the Mound, explaining its legacy to those unaware of its profound importance, and to those curious about the unknown.

Telling stories of the local area dating back to the Mound’s construction in around 2400 bc, and including key moments of Neolithic heritage, Norman royal occupation and prestigious 18th-century garden and landscape design, the film focuses on a great panoply of human interactions with this extraordinary ancient monument.

Click Here to view the film

The film stands as an historic document: a record of how the modern world of archaeology investigates and speculates about the origins of the Mound. But the film also presents at least three rival strands of interpretation of this historic site, urging viewers to question their own understanding and beliefs about the Mound.

Should the Mound be seen as an ancient ritual site associated with the worship of water and fertility by early farming communities? Or should it rather be seen as the burial site of Merlin, as claimed in the Marlborough town motto, “Where now are the bones of wise Merlin”? Did the succession of kings and queens who frequented the royal castle on the site believe that Merlin was trapped for eternity in the Mound? What did poets in receipt of Lady Hertford’s patronage think, as they recited their works in her shell grotto for the delight of her fellow ‘nymphs and muses’?

This film covers popular myths, newly discovered scientific evidence from carbon-dating and cultural evolution in the hands of Lady Hertford and the Seymour family; and, in doing so, covers 4,500 years of national heritage. Most of all, the film urges us not to regard this remarkable monument as ‘an artefact’ whose story has ended, but as a living, changing being whose mystery continues to draw in and enchant those whose minds remain open to the magic of this place.

The production of this film was made possible only through the imagination and generosity of Eric Elstob (C2 1956-60) who left a legacy to found the Mound Trust.

Thanks are due also to Michael Macfadyen (C2 1956-61), Chairman of the Mound Trust, and to his fellow Trustees. Much of the research for the script and screenplay, including the interviewing, was done by recent OMs:

Sophie Kidwell (MO 2008-13), Georgia Stratham (EL 2008-13), Will Perry (B1 2007-12), Maeve Mahony (NC 2011-16), Molly Macaire (NC 2011-16), Sarah Whitham (LI 2013-15) and Marcus Miller (C3 2011-16).

Teach A Man to Fish - produced by Ian Packard (BH 2003-08) - received the prestigious Gold Arrow award for ‘Best Student Commercial’ at this year’s British Arrows CRAFT Awards, which took place on Wednesday 23rd November 2016 in London.

Teach A Man to Fish was made as part of the school’s Bridges to Industry Programme for fashion brand, Jigsaw. National Film and Television School students and graduates were given the opportunity to create a short film that ‘celebrates, educates and elevates’ fashion brand Jigsaw’s commitment to product creation, craft and design.

Ian completed the advert while in his final year at the National Film & Television School. He now runs his own production company based in London called Media Mayhem.

2017 has arrived and the number of events for Old Marlburians continues to grow with the launch several new industry groups.

The inaugural Law Group Networking Evening will take place at The Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys in London on Tuesday 17th January. For further details please send an email.

OMs are also advised the date for the 2017 Edinburgh Dinner has been confirmed and will take place on Friday 24th March. This will be held at The New Club.

Please take a look at the Events page for the full list of forthcoming events or for more details or enquiries, email marlburianclub@marlboroughcollege.org

What does a VC winner, a box of exquisitely made truffles and the rescuer of migrants from the Mediterranean have in common? They all appear in 2016’s Marlburian Club Magazine.

2016’s magazine, the first for new Editor Catherine Brumwell nee Redpath (NC 1991-96, pictured), features a variety of topics and showcases established or budding journalists, which is part of Catherine’s ambition for the magazine.

OMs are endlessly impressive and their exploits fascinating. Caroline Hitch’s (B3 1975-77) rise to the top of one of the world’s largest banks is astounding; and Grace Jackson’s (LI 2007-09) personal account of working with the Ebola Response Team in Sierra Leone extraordinary.

The cover story is about award-winning cameraman, director and photographer Nick Shoolingin-Jordan (B1 1987-92), who is brilliantly interviewed by Clem Simon (NC 2007-10).

Alongside the many articles are many pages of OM News; global OM and Club events; and the annual record of sporting prowess. Click here to read the magazine.

The magazine needs your continued help and input. If you would like to get your writing or photographs onto the pages of a magazine, which goes out to over 10,000 OMs and current parents, please contact Catherine on catherine@theommagazine.co.uk

'It is Easy to be Dead', a play based on the works of Charles Hamilton Sorley (C1 1908-13) has been reviewed by the Daily Telegraph.

Please click here to review the full article.

(Photo credit: Scott Rylander).

Once again, Marlborough College Summer School returns for four weeks from 9th July to 5th August 2017. This eagerly anticipated annual event has grown beyond compare into one of the largest multi-generational Summer Schools of its kind and welcomes visitors from both home and abroad, with many returning year after year to renew friendships and enjoy all that Marlborough College has to offer.

The popularity of Summer School is undoubtedly underpinned by the phrase “something for everyone”. Catering for students starting from three years old through to 90 years young, it is this blend spanning the generations and accommodating all combinations of family groups and individuals that creates a unique holiday atmosphere in the beautiful setting of Marlborough College.

The eclectic course programme of art, culture and sport is refreshed and developed annually, and this year is no exception, with traditional favourites running alongside a wide range of inspiring new titles including Performing Victorian Music Hall, An Introduction to Astronomy, Willow Animal Sculpture, The Anatomy of Antiques and even Wine and Cheese Matching!

In addition to over 400 fascinating courses for adults and a comprehensive programme of activities for young people, 2017 also sees the first Summer School courses run in France. Popular Summer School art tutor Kevin Scully will be heading to south-west France at the end of April to lead Light and Colour in the Medium of Your Choice, followed by Melanie Cambridge and her Adventures with Gouache and Mixed Media in September.

The Friday exhibition continues to flourish and provides a perfect opportunity to view work from many of the courses, whilst enjoying live music and entertainment in the wonderful setting of Court in the heart of the College. What’s more, the entertainment continues long after afternoon tea is served.  The Summer School team have surpassed themselves with this year’s packed entertainment programme which includes daily lectures, film nights, recitals and showcase Gala performances which are open to both Summer School students and the general public.

The 2017 Gala Series features a superb line-up ranging from An Evening with Ann Widdecombe to Illyria’s outdoor theatre production of The Lost World – complete with life-size dinosaurs! There’s also early music from the award-winning Ensemble Plus Ultra, jive and swing from The Jive Aces, The Overtures tribute to the 60s and much more.

For further information and to book, phone the Summer School team on 01672 892388 or visit the new and improved website at summerschool.co.uk 

With picturesque surroundings, a wide range of excellent amenities and an in-house catering team Marlborough College can offer you fantastic venues for a variety of events – with discounted rates for OMs.

Marlborough not only offers a number of historic and modern spaces to hire, we can also offer parking, recommended suppliers to suit all budgets and an experienced and dedicated events team to make sure your event runs smoothly.

Click here to take a look at the range of venues available.

For more information please contact Events Manager, Debbie Flower, on 01672 892459 or email here.

Retired Colonel Tim Van Rees (CO 1953-57) is to host a dinner for Welsh OMs in the Cardiff and Country Club, on the evening of Friday 28th April.

The guest of honour will be the Master Jonathan Leigh and his wife Emma. It is many years since the last Welsh Dinner with a good attendance anticipated at the 2017 event.

Further details to follow but please let Events Manager Fiona Cottrill know via email if you are interested in attending.

Join us for the inaugural Marlburian Club Law Networking Event on Tuesday 17th January in London.

As part of our growing list of Professional Groups, the Marlburian Club is delighted to be launching the Marlburian Club Law Network and would like to invite you to attend the inaugural event on Tuesday 17th January at the offices of CIPA (Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys) in London.

This will be an excellent opportunity to meet, network and socialise with fellow OMs working within the legal Book Nowprofession. You will also be able to register interest in mentoring, giving career advice  or work experience to current or recently graduated Marlborough pupils.

The evening will run from 6pm - 8pm and the cost of the evening will be £15, to include drinks and nibbles. Please click here for more details or to register.

The College Chapel will host an All-age service on Christmas Day that is open to all.

Old Marlburians are most welcome to attend the service that will begin at 10am in Chapel.

The Revd Dr David Campbell,Senior Chaplain, commented: "Currently the College Chapel stands stately by the Bath Road like a grand and gracious galleon ready to put to sea, bathed as it is in its glorious blue light for the festive season.

"It will certainly witness plenty of wonderful and happy occasions in the coming weeks, from the annual College Christmas Carol Services this weekend, through to those other schools we are privileged to host for their carol services."

Neil Hall (SU 1961-63) and his son have launched their new fun interactive ‘Bouncy The Tennis Ball’ website www.bouncythetennisball.com.

An interactive site, aimed at children, set in the world of tennis in sunny California. you can also buy and download, through the website, Bouncy’s ‘First Great Adventure’ which is the first in a planned series of books.

They are particularly looking for reviews on Amazon and Goodreads if you feel able.

A reminder that tickets have sold-out for the OM Carol Service this Wednesday 14th December at Chelsea Old Church.

President of the Marlburian Club Tim Martin-Jenkins (B3 1961-65) and the Club Committee will be present with over 300 tickets sold for the Carol Service.

Readers will include James Mates (C3 1974-77), Simon Fanshawe (C1 1970-74), Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97), Alex Blake (B2 1988-93) and Alethea Steven (NC 1994-99). The Rev Dickie, known to many as Father Dickie, will give the address and an OM Choir will accompany the Carols.

There is a waiting list now in operation. If you would like to be added, please email Alex Martin, Alumni Relations Assistant, or call 01672 892385.

David Mahoney (C3 2001-06) and Joe Arkwright (SU 2011-15) are both on stage tonight – featuring in Christmas on Broadway.

Arkwright – who was born in C3 - is a second year trombonist at the RWCMD. During his time at Marlborough, Mahoney was a Music Scholar and a member of Big Band on bass guitar, a cellist and a member of the Chapel Choir.

Tonight will see the Royal Welsh College Concert Orchestra and musical theatre performers team up with Only Men Aloud’s Mahoney to present a unique celebration of Christmas on Broadway.

The Club office was delighted to receive a box of handmade chocolates from Troffle, set up by Verity Macdonald (MO 2002-07). 

They were delicious and enjoyed by all. Thank you! Find out more on the Troffle website here.

Lauren Child (B1 1982-84) (known as Helen when at Marlborough), has published the final book in her Ruby Redfort series.

Lauren Child has written many bestselling and award-winning books, including the Charlie and Lola and the Clarice Bean series. She has won numerous awards including the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal and the Smarties Gold Award. Her books have been made into an award-winning TV series and have sold in many languages with runaway success.

Ruby Redfort is an undercover agent, code-cracker and 13-year-old genius you can count on her when the ice starts to crack. The final book says goodbye to this much loved character in true smart and sassy Ruby style. Click here for more information.

Nicky Hawkins (EL 2004-09) and Vicky Eatough (EL 2004-09) are planning to set up an OM Girls' Netball team - and need your help!

There are a range of OM sports clubs in operation and OM Netball fixtures could soon be added to the programme of events.

If you would be interested in being involved please email omnetball@gmail.com

Adam Lees (B1 2002-07) is taking on a mammoth charity run called MAD2Run in aid of the Make A Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD), in South Africa where he currently lives.
 
The MAD Leadership Foundation was started by former South African rugby player, Francois Pienaar, in 2003, with the ambition to help transform his country - one scholar at a time. As an organization they are dedicated to identifying and offering scholarships to academically talented young leaders who may lack the opportunities to access education. The foundation focuses on helping these individuals through all tiers of education whilst supporting their leadership and life-skills development, so they in turn can help those around them.
 
Adam commented: "Coming from the UK and being fortunate enough to attend Marlborough is a million miles away from the opportunities available to many of South Africa’s youngsters.

"Through the work of the Foundation they provide life changing opportunities, see for yourself in Gaddaffi’s story here."

The Event

MAD2Run is an annual fund raising event in support of the MAD Leadership Foundation. The event consists of a 24hr a day, 7-day long relay-style run from Johannesburg to Cape Town (1520km!) with 12 runners per crew. MAD2Run 2017 will be the fourth consecutive annual event, and will be taking place from the 7th – 14th April 2017. Each runner will aim to run a minimum of 150km over these seven days with shifts varying from the 3am desert chill to the roasting mid-day sun. It will be a tough yet amazing adventure, however the ultimate goal of raising awareness and funds for the Foundation is the priority.
 
If you would like to sponsor Adam, please do so here. 

Sadly Nick Woodeson (B2 1963-67) is now unable to read at the OM Carol Service on Wednesday 14th December, as he is away filming. 

We are delighted to confirm that ITV News' Europe Editor James Mates (C3 1974-77) has agreed to read instead.

Tickets have now SOLD-OUT for the service, that will take place at Chelsea Old Church. President of the Marlburian Club Tim Martin-Jenkins (B3 1961-65) and the Club Committee will be present with over 300 tickets sold.

The 117th edition of The Marlburian Club Magazine has this week been published.

Edited by Catherine Brumwell (NC 1991-96), the cover story features award-winning cameraman, producer and director Nick Shoolingin-Jordan.

There are also a raft of other insightful items including features, news stories, sports reports as well as the popular crossword by Alberich (C1 1976-80) – the perfect way to unwind over the festive season.

Copies have been sent out by post this week or if you would like to read the latest edition online, please do so here.

This Friday on BBC Radio 6, Lewis Borg-Cardona’s (BH 1973-77) latest network radio show airs.

Steve Levine presents two hours of 'Alternative 80s: An Insider's History Of Pop', sitting in for Iggy Pop (7-9pm), as part of the BBC's 'My Generations 1980s' strand. The show is programmed and written by Lewis, with interviewees including Midge Ure, Martyn Ware, Johnny Marr and Trevor Horn.

Music from The Slits to The Smiths; from Culture Club to Cocteau Twins... and much more besides. Tune in by clicking here, this Friday 2nd December.

The Duchess of Cambridge (EL 1996-2000) attended the Place2Be Awards at Mansion House where she praised the work being done by Place2Be in support of children's mental health.
 
'Without many of the inspiring people gathered here this evening, countless children would not receive such transformational support in their schools,' she said, speaking at the ceremony.

'It is because of so many of you that, in their time of need, children have the help, care and attention that will get them through tough times in their lives.'

The Duchess said she believed in the importance of confronting problems early on, to prevent them from escalating into 'even greater issues later in life'.

'As you all recognise through your support of Place2Be, even the luckiest people can face great challenges, no matter how invincible we seem on the surface, all of us need help from time to time.' 

Place2Be is the UK's leading children's mental health charity providing in-school support and expert training to improve the emotional wellbeing of pupils, families, teachers and school staff and works directly with more than 282 primary and secondary schools across Wales, Scotland and England, reaching a school population of over 116,000 pupils.

The Duchess has been Patron of Place2Be since 2013 to find out more click here.

20 East Sussex OMs met for their annual casual get-together on Friday 11th November at the Star pub at Waldron near Heathfield.

As usual the noise level was high and it was particularly noticeable how all the different generations present seemed to have so much in common. After much good food and wine, the evening closed with the ritual singing of 'The Old Bath Road'  - though sadly some of the younger members did not seem familiar with this Marlborough classic. It was left to us 'oldies' to keep the tradition going!

Any OMs living in East Sussex are welcome to join us at future events.  Please email Robin Bather for information.

The number of events for Old Marlburians continues to grow with the launch several new industry groups.

The inaugural Law Group Networking Evening will take place at The Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys in London on Tuesday 17th January. For further details please send an email.

OMs are also advised the date for the 2017 Edinburgh Dinner has been confirmed and will take place on Friday 24th March. This will be held at The New Club.

Ahead of Christmas, the OM Carol Service is nearly sold-out with limited places remaining for the evening at Chelsea Old Church on Wednesday 14th December.

Please take a look at the Events page for the full list of forthcoming events or for more details or enquiries, email marlburianclub@marlboroughcollege.org

The draw has been made for the first round of The Cricketer Cup.

Made at Wednesday night's AGM, the Blues will play the Old Cheltonians at home on Sunday 11th June.

To stay up to date with the latest Cricket news from Marlborough please follow @MCol_Cricket here.

Becca Naylor (MM 2003-08) has become Reed Smith’s Pro Bono Manager for Europe, the Middle East and Asia (EMEA).

Becca started working there as a trainee in 2014 following a strong background in human rights.

You can read more about her story and rise through the ranks here.

The Kempson Rosedale Enterprise Trust Annual Lecture takes place this Thursday 24th November, with Jake Meyer (C3 1997-02) the speaker.

His lecture ‘Reaching for the Top’ is open to the public with OMs and members of the Marlborough community especially welcome.

The Marlborough-based charity the Kempson Rosedale Enterprise Trust funds selected students from St. John’s Academy or Marlborough College who plan to spend holiday time or gap years undertaking an enterprising and challenging activity.  They look for young people with ideas for inspiring and remarkable activities, which will enrich their lives.

The Kempson Rosedale Enterprise Trust was formed in 1988 in memory of a much revered Marlborough College master and mountaineer, “G” Kempson. In 2009 the trust was extended by Rachel and Barney Rosedale commemorating their son Rupert Rosedale, an inspirational and much loved Head of Outdoor Activities, who died in an avalanche on Ben Nevis.

Tickets for the talk are £10 for Adults and £5 for pupils.  These are available on the door or via events@marlboroughcollege.org

The next exhibition at the Mount House Gallery is a selection of work by the Art Staff at Marlborough.

OMs are invited to attend the Private View this Friday 25th November at 7pm-9pm. The exhibition itself is then on from Saturday 26th November - Sunday 11th December 2016.

The gallery opening times are Wednesday - Friday 2pm - 5pm, Saturday 9.30am - 12.30pm and 2pm - 5pm and Sunday 2pm-5pm.

The Marlborough College community wished George Johnson a very Happy 90th Birthday on Thursday 17th November.

A news story was posted on the The Marlburian Club Facebook page quickly became the most 'Liked' news story in recent years, with 238 likes and a reach of over 10,000 people.

George joined Marlborough in 1953 as a painter and decorator. He then became General Foreman of Estates – a role he carried out until the age of 65. After that he joined the catering team in the Norwood Hall, where he has been a familiar face for the past 25 years.

George was present in Common Room at break on Thursday lunchtime, where the Master recognised this fine achievement – 63 years of service!

The Marlburian Club would like to congratulate Will Eversfield (C3 2007-12) who made his debut for Hong Kong on Friday night.

Eversfield represented England Students whilst at Newcastle University, but following a move to Hong Kong in July to play for Borrelli Walsh USRC Tigers - he found himself stepping up a level.
The Hong Kong born forward started in the second row for Hong Kong’s Cup of Nations opener against Papua New Guinea – starring in a 51-5 victory. Click here to watch the match.

Hong Kong assistant coach Andy Hall was pleased with the OM’s efforts.

“He’s integrated well, he’s quite a smart kid so he’s taking things on quickly,” Hall told the South China Morning Post.

“He ran the line-outs today and our ball was certainly successful. For him to come in that quickly and adapt and then perform how he did was really pleasing to see.”

Hong Kong now face Russia on Saturday in the final game of the tournament.

Marlborough College and Radley College competed for the Silk Cup on Saturday afternoon, a trophy named in honour of Dennis Silk.

Presented by The Marlburian Club, the Silk Cup is in honour of DRW Silk who was both the coach of the all-conquering Marlborough XV of 1963 and subsequently Warden of Radley from 1968-1991.

Radley were the inaugural winners of the trophy in 2013, but Marlborough won the day on Saturday with nine wins, two draws and five defeats across the board.

As ever thanks to all those OMs who were on the sidelines at the various fixtures both home and away on Saturday.

Harry Fox was at Marlborough from 1911 to 1916, in Cotton House. Upon leaving school, in common with almost all of his contemporaries, he was called up and, upon completion of Officer and Artillery training, Second Lieutenant Harry Fox, aged 19, was sent to fight in France in July 1917.

Letters were extremely important for the morale of the officers and men who fought in the First World War – both the sending and receiving. We are very lucky to have access here to the complete collection of letters that Harry sent to his family, from training in England in 1917, through his combat experiences on the Western Front, and on after the Armistice until his return home in February 1919. More than anything the letters reveal the essential characteristics and values of Harry Fox – he is mature, conscientious, well balanced, resilient and brave. He is also witty, thoughtful, sporty and loyal by nature. You could say that he is a model example of the Edwardian public schoolboy.

The Memoirs, written in 1920, give a factual account of his experiences. Unlike in the letters, which had to pass the censor, here he is free to give details of places, battles, retreats and advances. Narrative accounts by artillerymen of the Great War are relatively uncommon and, together with the letters, the Memoirs provide an excellent chronicle of what it was like to be a gunner in the First World War.

The writings of Harry Fox will be of interest to students of history, members of the CCF, OMs, and anyone who has an interest in the First World War and history in general.

Click here to read the letters.

Gráinne Lenehan
Archive Assistant

Pip Brignall (LI 2002-07) is starring in a new play, “Think of England”, touring the country with Anonymous is a Woman Theatre Company.
 
“It’s the Summer of 1943, Bette and Vera travel the country hosting tea dances for RAF fighter pilots stationed nearby. What the locals don’t know is that the dance is a cover for the girls’ real purpose; to send the men off to fight having experienced all of life’s pleasures.”
 
Audiences will be invited to attend the tea dance just as they would have done in 1942 and the play comes alive all around them.
 
The tour starts Wednesday 9th November, full dates and locations can be found here.

You may have read about Emily Brett (LI 1994-96) in last year’s Marlburian Club magazine and the Charity she founded, Ourmala.  Ourmala works with refugees and those seeking asylum to help them integrate into UK Society and rebuild their lives through yoga. 

Emily has now launched a crowdfunder to raise funds to enable Ourmala to grow and to work with the British Red Cross to help some of the unaccompanied child refugees coming to the UK from the camps in Calais. So far £6,600 of the £7,200 target has been reached.

She asks: "Please would you help us by pledging and / or sharing this link with your network and asking them to do the same? The more people pledge quickly, the more people will see our project and the more likely it is we'll be able to reach our goal and possibly raise even more so we can help more people in 2017."

Click here for the crowdfunder page or visit to find out more about Ourmala and their work visit their website. A feature in the Guardian can be viewed here.

Pippa Middleton (EL 1997-2002) has published a new book, “Heartfelt”, in conjunction with the British Heart Foundation.

Click here for further details.

Ione Wells (EL 2007-2013) has given a powerful TED talk, discussing her experience of assault and the social media campaign which followed.

"We need a more considered approach to using social media for social justice," says writer and activist.

After she was the victim of an assault in London, Wells published a letter to her attacker in a student newspaper that went viral and sparked the #NotGuilty campaign against sexual violence and victim-blaming. In this moving talk, she describes how sharing her personal story gave hope to others and delivers a powerful message against the culture of online shaming. Click here.

It is Easy to be Dead, a play based on the works of Charles Hamilton Sorley (C1 1908-13), will transfer to Trafalgar Studios 2 following a successful run at the Finborough Theatre in west London.

The play will be running from 9 November – 3 December 2016 with an official opening on 11 November 2016.

The original London run at the Finborough, which the Marlborough College Archive department advised on, played to sell-out audiences and it was nominated for seven Off-West End Awards including Best New Play, Best Male Performance, and Best Director.

Click here for further information.

Following the excitement of the Ryder Cup, Old Marlburians are invited to join the OM Golf Society.

There is also a new category of membership for leavers.  Subject to approval by the Beak in charge of golf, Marlborough College leavers may apply for ten years' free membership of the OMGS. 

Please note that applications should be made within six months of leaving Marlborough.  Please  email here for more information.

Michael Pennington (PR 1957-61), who toured as Lear in Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy King Lear this year, has published a book about his experiences.

“King Lear In Brooklyn” is Pennington’s meditations on grappling with Shakespeare’s greatest role, and gives a fascinating insight into the punishing mental and physical impact the role can have on those who are brave enough to take on the challenge. 

Containing sharp reportage on the time he spent in Brooklyn, Pennington examines the relationships between the cast and the characters they play, and explores the director’s approach to Lear and that of the other actors. We see the production develop and unfurl through the eyes of an English actor playing the lead in an otherwise all-American cast.

It includes a transcript of a conversation between the author and Sir Ian McKellen, and gives an enthralling account of the circumstances and fortunes of the New York production. Pennington dispels the idea of this great play as forbidding and remote, by bringing its characters vividly into the present in their contemporary voices, to explain their reactions, strategies, and struggles on the way to the production’s acclaimed success.

Funny, personal and deeply honest, Pennington’s account is also probing and scholarly – there is no greater insight into Shakespeare’s greatest role. This is the work of one of our most sublime actor-writers at the top of his game.

Michael Pennington is also going to be appearing in a BBC 2 programme on Lear which is going out at 9pm on Saturday 29th October.

Rosemeadians Lacrosse welcomes any OMs looking to join a London-based Lacrosse club.

If you're a player keen to take part in a few relaxed lacrosse games across the season without additional commitment to training and a higher level league then feel free to get in touch. All levels welcome.

For more information please email Dordie Brett (EL 1992-96).

OMFC played out a 3-3 draw against the Common Room on Sunday, as part of Club Day 2016.

The game was played in great spirit on Water Meadows with the OMs edging into a 3-2 lead  thanks to Charlie Laughton (TU 1994-99) and a brace from Harry Harvey (C3 1998-2003), before a late leveller from Simon Gale brought an end to the six-goal thriller.

The Marlburian Club would like to thank Adam Scott (B2 1973-78) for not only travelling from the West Coast of America to attend Club Day, but also for donning his boots to play a full game for the OMs!

OMs are invited to the Digital Players Networking Event on Tuesday 8th November in London.

The evening will appeal to those with an interest in shaping the digital economy, from strategists, entrepreneurs, designers, marketers and creatives to programmers, business owners and tech wizzes. This informal get-together is an opportunity to exchange ideas, share knowledge and help one another as well as having a catch up.

The event will run from 6.30 - 8.30pm at The Rack and Tenter pub in Moorgate. The cost of the evening will be £10 for OMs or £5 for OMs under 25. If you would like to attend, please book by clicking here for more information.

OMs attending Club Day have the opportunity to have a tour of the Mound this Sunday . 

If you would like a place on the tour at 3.30pm then please email The Marlburian Club here.

It is ½ mile up to the top of the Mound so you will need a little stamina for the climb and the tour is limited to 20 on a first come, first served basis.

A busy programme of events for this Sunday 9th October, Club Day 2016,can be viewed below. There is something for everyone so please register in advance.

The day will take place on Sunday 9th October at Marlborough with all OMs invited back to the College.

The day will begin with coffee served in Court from 9.45am before Chapel at 10.15am and the Marlburian Club AGM will take place in Adderley at 11.15am.

OM sport on the day includes OM girls' hockey, a rugby match against the Old Cliftonians on Hamersley and an encounter for OMFC against a Common Room XI.

Click here for the full schedule and registration form or click here for a gallery of images from past Club Days.

To see a video from last year's event please click here.

OMs are invited to a casual gathering on Wednesday 2nd November from 6.30pm at the Four Seasons Hotel in Jumeirah 2, Dubai.

The venue is the roof top Mercury Lounge from 6.30pm and OMs are welcome to bring along spouses/guests etc. 

Those interested are kindly asked to RSVP to Nick Stockwell (C2 1992-1997) via email here.

Tickets are still on sale for the The Tom ap Rhys Pryce Memorial Trust 10th Anniversary Gala Concert.

Taking place on Sunday 2nd October in the Memorial Hall with an afternoon of classical music, jazz, poetry, friendship and celebration.

Marking a decade of helping disadvantaged young people achieve their full potential with
an afternoon of young talent and world class performances from classical, pop and jazz musicians.

There will be performances by past & present music scholars, including special guest Trumpet maestro Crispian Steele-Perkins.

Tickets are £20 per person and there is also an option to make an additional donation to Tom's Trust on the payment page. All proceeds to go to Tom's Trust. Please click here for more details.

Robert Stedall’s (LI 1956-60) latest book Men of Substance: The London Livery Companies’ Reluctant Part in the Plantation of Ulster is due to be published at the end of September.

You can read the summary and order the book here.

OMs are invited to view a new series of exhibitions by the 2016/17 Artist in Residence, Timothy Betjeman, at the Mount House Gallery.

The Exhibition is now open until Wednesday 12th October or by appointment 07946 001809.

Opening times are Wednesday to Friday (2-7pm), Saturday (9am–1pm) and Sunday 2-5pm.

Click here to visit Timothy Betjeman's website.

Robert Perrins (SU 1978-83), chief executive of the Berkeley Group, was recently interviewed in the Evening Standard about the challenges and opportunities faced by housing developers in London.

“We want to build communities, not just apartments. It’s what London needs," he says.

Click here to read the full interview.

Graham Bagnall (C2 1960–64) has retired after working for 50 years as a shipbroker for various firms on the Baltic Exchange, in the City of London. 

He retired as a director of SSY, the second largest firm, and has been elected as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers.

In early 2015, after recovering from a hip replacement, he resumed his interest in rowing and this summer won two gold medals in the British Rowing Championships for Masters (veterans!) in VIII's and Quadruple Sculls.

The OM putting elite - David Niven (C3 1970-73), Richard Graham (B1 1981-85), Tom Macfarlane (TU 1996-2001) and Jack Naylor (C2 1975-80) - won the Schools Putting competition at Royal Wimbledon.

The competition was won for the second time in ten years, this time by one point from Lancing, with Wellington and King's Taunton a distant third. 

Ably led and managed by Chris Dowling (B2 1966-71), who was 400 miles away, Tom won an outstanding 13 (out of a possible 14) points and despite darkness falling before the final round was completed, victory had already been sealed. 

Is this a portent for the Grafton Morrish (7-9 October) and next year's Halford Hewitt? 

Congratulations to the team, not forgetting Angus Murray (BH 1983-88) and Chaz Blockley (C1 1996-2001), who helped us to qualify in June - sadly, they do not receive winners' medals!

Molly Cowan (MO 2001-06) married Will Taylor (PR 2001-06) on Saturday 27th August 2016 at Bampton Church, Oxfordshire.

The cataclysmic storm outside during the service did not succeed in dampening the spirits of the many OM friends and family gathered to celebrate together – and the sun began to shine as the party moved outside for speeches, drinks and dancing. A truly wonderful occasion!

Old Marlburian FC returned to Marlborough for a friendly match on Saturday afternoon.

Ben Walters (SU 2005-10) is pictured here before kick-off alongside referee Graham Davis and the Grannies’ captain.

It was a comfortable victory for the OMs, who will line up against the College Common Room as part of the Club Day programme on Sunday 9th October.

The immediate past captain of the OM Golf Society, Iain Macdonald-Smith (B1 1959-63), is a former Olympian having won gold at the 1968 Olympics in yachting. He was awarded an MBE for this achievement.

He first teamed-up with Rodney Pattisson in 1967, when they finished second in the British championships. With Pattisson as helmsman and MacDonald-Smith as crew, it proved to be a highly successful partnership and together they won three World, two European and three British titles.

At the 1968 Olympics, they entered the ultra-modern Superdocious and won the gold medals with the most overwhelming victory ever achieved in any class in the history of Olympic yachting. MacDonald-Smith, who was educated at Marlborough and Selwyn College, Cambridge, before becoming a solicitor, was only a reserve for the 1972 Olympics but he competed again in 1976, finishing 13th in the Soling Class.

Iain, now 71, attended and addressed the OM Golf Society Dinner in London back in May with a review available here.

Are you a 2011 leaver? Then read on for details of a reunion taking place in London on Wednesday 21st September.

Celebrate the fifth anniversary of the class of 2011 by joining us for a reunion evening. Olivia Timbs (C1 1970-72), Club President and Chris Carpmael (C1 1980-84), Club Chairman invite OMs from the class of 2011 to attend this informal Drinks Reception at The Jam Tree in Chelsea from 6.30pm onwards.

There is no charge to attend but there are a limited number of places available, so we would ask you to book before the closing date of Monday 12th September. Click here for more details.

Justin Blampied (B3 1986-90), who writes under the name of Justin Fisher, has written a fantastic book for 9-14 year olds that has been published by Harper Collins.

Ned’s Circus of Marvels, the first of a trilogy: From exciting debut author, Justin Fisher, comes this rip-roaring, page-turning new magical adventure. Ned Waddlesworth has always considered his world to be exceptionally ordinary. Until the day he discovers it ISN’T. AT ALL. Because on Ned’s thirteenth birthday he discovers that everything magical he’s ever read about or imagined is REAL. And without him, the world will soon be engulfed in monstrous beasts and beings.
So with the help of a robot mouse, a girl witch and a flying circus unlike any other, it’s up to Ned to swoop in and save the day! Roll up, roll up, and prepare to be AMAZED by Ned and the marvellous, magical, monstrous flying circus!

Film rights have been snapped up too.  More information can be found here.
 
Justin’s ‘day job’ is as a title sequence designer for Hollywood movies and commercials. He’s designed for Steven Spielberg, Michael Bay, Tim Burton, Joel Schumacher and Brian Singer, for everything from X-Men 2 to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory.

The OM football side will be in action as part of this year’s Club Day programme on Sunday 9th October.

Now managed by Nick Horowitz (C3 2002-07) and Ben Walters (SU 2005-10), the OMs will return to Marlborough for a match up against a Common Room XI.

Further Club Day announcements will be made over the coming weeks ahead of what looks like being another entertaining day.

Imran Tayabali FCA (LI 1989-94) has just completed a charity cycle ride from Shelford to Southwold (c.90 miles) in memory of his father who died of Meningitis in 2008.

A Director of Chartered Accountants & Business Consultants Tayabali Tomlin & White, Imran took on the challenge on Friday 8th July.

After the ride, he commented: “The cycle ride went well and we managed to raise over £5,000 which is more than we initially anticipated. The pint at the end tasted amazing after a dip in the North Sea to cool down!”

Click here make a donation or to read more.

OMtrepreneurs “Pitch & Putt” Networking Evening
Thursday 8th September 6:30 – 9:30 pm
City Golf, 40 Coleman St, near Bank Tube, EC2R 5EH

Want to sell more of your product or service? Want to raise capital at the best price? Want to sell your company for the highest value? Come along to the OMtrepreneurs networking evening kindly sponsored by MBM Commercial on Thursday, 8th September at City Golf to pick up some tips on how to hone your pitch… whatever it is you are selling.

Kyle Burrows (C1 1986-90), founder of Propeller Training & Work Ready Graduates, has been training business owners and corporate sales teams in the psychology and techniques of selling for over 12 years and Peter Tahany (C3 1973-78) of Fraser Finance has been extracting best price exits and capital raises for entrepreneurs for even longer. Both will share their secrets and take Q&A before an opportunity for five OMtrepreneurs to give a brief (no longer than two minutes) pitch to the audience to source customers, partners, employees, advice or even capital.

The pitching will be followed by networking drinks and the chance to take part in “closest to the pin” and “longest off the tee” competitions on the City Golf simulators (all equipment provided).

To secure your place please click here to book and pay online before the closing date of 1st September.

2018 marks the 50th year of girls at Marlborough College and the 175th year since the College was established.

We would be delighted if you are able to join us for some of the celebratory events which will take place throughout the academic year 2017/2018.

Please click here for more information.

Robert Perrins (SU 1979-83) has been awarded an honorary degree to mark the 50th Anniversary of Aston University’s award of a Royal Charter and status as a University.

23 honorary degrees were awarded to prominent Aston graduates, luminaries and leading figures from throughout the University's history.

Robert graduated with an honours degree in Geological sciences from Aston. He joined the Berkeley Group in 1994, after qualifying as a Chartered Accountant with Ernst & Young and rose to become Managing Director in 2009. The next year he launched a major new 10 year plan for the company. This set out to make Berkeley one of the most successful, sustainable businesses in Britain.

Under Robert's leadership, Berkeley has cemented a reputation for outstanding commercial performance and the ability to create beautiful homes in amazing places where people aspire to live. In 2011, he set up the Berkeley Foundation, a pioneering charity which supports young people and their communities.

Nick Allport (SU 2006-11) will set out to run the Pennine Way starting on Monday 15th August.

Along with a childhood friend, Nick will be attempting to run the 268-miles along the Penine Way.

“We have split it up into ten marathon length sections, which we are attempting to run back to back in ten days,” he said.

“We are running in aid of two great charities, the Ways and Means Trust and Jacaranda Trust, both of which support adults with special needs, enabling them to play a more active role in society.”

To find out more details or to make a donation please click here.

You can follow their progress on Facebook here during the run (well, when they have a break!).

We welcome the first leaving cohort from Marlborough College Malaysia to join The Marlburian Club.

The 41 leavers have been at the top of the school for their entire time at the College. They were the first group to take IGCSE examination in 2014 and have recently completed their IB Diploma Programme.

They will move on to study at some of the world’s top universities: University of Auckland, University of Melbourne, McGill University, New York University, University of Queensland, University of Toronto, Bath, Bristol, Durham, Exeter, Imperial, King’s London, Manchester, Newcastle and St Andrew’s are possible destinations.

Congratulations to Sasha McMurrary (LI 2005-07) who’s latest production for Watch Your Head, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a unique production that is part of the Royal Collection Trust’s Shakespeare 400 programme has sold out all their performances at Windsor Castle
18 – 20 & 25 – 27 August 2016.

Tamara Heber-Percy MBE (TU 1989-91) features in the article 'the busy woman’s guide to building your A-team'.

You know the saying: if you want something done, ask a busy person. But who do the busy ones lean on?

Tamara features in the article which sees four successful career women asked who they depend on for sanity, time-saving… and late night fro-yos.

Are you an OM and attending this year’s Summer School?

Then why not join The Marlburian Club for drinks in Court, each Wednesday throughout the four-week Summer School programme from 6pm to 7pm.

A traditional gathering, the drinks offer a chance to unwind in the company of fellow OMs, current Development Office staff and Beaks.

Wednesday 3rd August, 6-7pm

Please note the drinks are only for OMs directly involved with Summer School.

Any questions? Please contact us.

For more information regarding Summer School and the courses available please click here.

Congratulations to the Marlborough Blues regained the CMJ Globe at Marlborough on Sunday afternoon.

The Radley Rangers were dismissed before tea, as the OM bowling attack, spearheaded by Max Koe (3-33), bowled them out for 95, AC (2-10).

The runs were comfortably knocked off, 99-2, Logan 42*.

Celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the Class of 2011 by joining us for a Reunion Evening on Wednesday 21st September in London.

Olivia Timbs (C1 1970-72), Club President and Chris Carpmael (C1 1980-84), Club Chairman invite you to attend this informal Drinks Reception at The Jam Tree in Chelsea from 6.30pm onwards.

There is no charge to attend but there are a limited number of places available, so we would ask you to click here to register and book your ticket before the closing date of Monday 12th September.

Helena Dickie (MO 2000-05) has worked as an Event Manager and Live Entertainment Producer at Sound Advice for two years.

Her most recent success was the annual Cornbury Festival in Oxfordshire for which she is Festival Producer.

James Runcie's (B2 1972-77) eagerly anticipated fifth instalment in the Grantchester Mysteries series, Sidney Chambers and the Dangers of Temptation, was published on 2nd June 2016.

“From the theft of an heirloom to an ominous case of blackmail, Sidney is once again rushed off his feet”.

Click here for more.

The College have just embarked on a two-week tour of Japan, with eight fixtures lined up against a range of local opposition.

If you are an OM based in Japan, then follow the tour with games to come in Sugadaira, Kyoto, Tokyo and Yokohama - for which support would be most welcomed.

The XV squad have been joined by a Colts squad for the tour, with full details available on the College website here.

After seven years of running the Old Marlburian Football Club Joe Hare and Dan Black (both C3 1999-2004) are stepping down from running the Club.

OMFC has gone from playing a couple of friendlies a year to establishing itself in the top division. During the 2015/16 season a remarkable 29 games were played.

Commenting on the announcement, Hare said: “It has been an honour and privilege to be part of the success achieved in the Club’s short history, and we thank everyone who has made it such an enjoyable experience. 

“Our reign will be ably succeeded by Nick Horowitz (C3 2002-07) and Ben Walters (SU 2005-10) with support from George Brown (BH 2002-07) who will continue in his role as treasurer. Whilst experience is key, the Club needs to blood some new, energetic, ambitious recruits to propel us forward as we look to build on what has been achieved so far. If you are a keen and committed footballer reading this, I urge you to put your services forward and get in touch at omfc.management@gmail.com.”

The Marlburian Club would like to thank both Joe and Dan for all the energy and commitment they have put into bringing OMFC so far in such a short time.  OMFC is looking for new lead sponsors so if anyone would like a fantastic sponsorship opportunity, do be in touch with Marlburian Club Office or with the team directly on the email above.

If you’re thinking about going to the cinema this weekend, why not support a fellow OM and go and see Absolutely Fabulous, produced by Damian Jones (TU 1978-82).

You can find out more about what he has been up to in his career on his website.

Damian also produced the recent Dad’s Army remake which is out now on DVD.

Henry Martin has been included in the Bath Rugby squad for the Singha Premiership Rugby 7s Series this Saturday at Sandy Park.

Martin was a regular for the XV in the Michaelmas Term and on the sevens circuit, as well as being a part of the Bath Rugby Academy. Now an OM having left at the end of the Summer Term, the winger is also now contracted as an England 7s Academy player.

Bath have been drawn in an exciting Group B that also features hosts Exeter Chiefs, Bristol Rugby and Wasps. Their first game of the round is against Wasps at 3.25pm, before taking on local rivals Exeter and Bristol back to back. Follow the action here.

Congratulations to Susanna Spicer (SU 1979-81) who has completed the 250 miles walk of the WW1 Western Front to commemorate all those who died 1914-18 and particularly her great-uncle, whose idea the Via Sacra was.

So far she has raised £2.323.52 for www.Legs4Africa.org - follow this link if you would like to add to the sponsorship total.

Olivia Lomenech Gill (MM 1990-92) is a very successful illustrator and artist and an exhibition of her work runs from 29th July to 31st July.

In 2012, she illustrated the book, “Where My Wellies Take Me…” and later on was commissioned by the author to create artwork for his concert performance, ‘War Horse: Only Remembered’.

Her work is now being shown in an exhibition which ties together the two stories of wellies and warhorse. The exhibition runs from 29th July to 31st October in the Hayloft Gallery, Paxton House, Berwick-upon-Tweed TD15 1SZ.

Entry is free. Click here for more information.

She also has work in the newly opened Michael Morpurgo exhibition at Seven Stories in Newcastle. This is a great exhibition for families and children. You can find out more here.

On Wednesday 20th July Tessa Packard (TU 2001-03), founder of Tessa Packard London, has been invited to speak on her experiences of founding and building a creative business in the fine jewellery sector.

It is being hosted by Kit and Ace, the leading technical cashmere brand, as part of their Speaker Series.

Places are limited and allocated on a first come, first served basis. Please click here to RSVP.

Dan Springate (SU 2013-15) will be playing with The Ben Cipolla Band at The Fire Station 6-8pm on Saturday 16th July.

Jonny Gee (CO 1985-90) will be playing at The Marlborough from 10pm – midnight with Sara Spade and the Noisy Boys.

Sophie Shakespeare (EL 2011-16) has been selected to represent England U18s at the forthcoming EHC European Championships in Ireland.

She captained her country for the victories over Germany and Belgium and then completed a series win in Antwerp against Belgium, with Shakespeare scoring a penalty.

Click here for further information and we of course wish Sophie every success during the tournament.

England Head coach Sarah Kelleher said; “This series of matches has been a very good test for us, giving us a great opportunity to work on key areas of our game. I am pleased with the results and know that our girls have a great team spirit, full of grit and determination ahead of our Euros campaign which start against Ireland on Sunday 24th July in Cork.”

A C2 2006 Leavers Reunion took place on Friday 11th July at the Lobster and Burger Restaurant in the City.

The get together was organised by Fynn Vergos, and afterwards we were treated to champagne and port at the Saddlers' Hall, where Sam Barclay's father, Charlie (CR), is the Prime Warden. Conversation ranged from Brexit to hair products.

Left to right in the photograph are: Sam Barclay, Jamie Clarke, Lisa McVeigh, Jack Bonham Cozens, Mark McVeigh (past HMC2), Tom Graham, Ed Kilbee and Fynn Vergos.

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity have asked Charlie Bladon (C1 1984-89) to organise a fundraising cycle ride to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

The event takes place from 31 July - 6 August and is 352 mile circuit around northern France and Belgium.

19 Old Marlburians died on the bloodiest day in British military history, ranging from 18-year old pilot Cecile Coxe (C2 1911-15) to 46-year old Richard Lovett (C2 1883-87), who returned from his Indian tea plantation to join the 16 Middlesex Regiment – otherwise known as the Public Schools Battalion, where public schoolboys from around the Empire joined up as soldiers to do their bit.

Also perishing that day was General Charles Prowse (CO 1882-85), who also has the distinction of having a cemetery on the Ypres Salient named after him after leading a brave bayonet charge on German positions in Plug Street Wood in late 1914.

Further details can be found at www.greenjerseycycling.co.uk/somme-cycle

There is a new way to advertise in this year's  Marlburian Club Magazine and discounts are available for OMs if booked by Friday 15th July.

Advertise your holiday let, an item for sale, or your business for as little as £40 in this year’s edition of The Marlburian Club Magazine - out in October.

It couldn’t be simpler to create your ad. Select the type of listing you would like from those shown below:

To download the classifieds spec click here or to download our advertising rates spec click here.

Ben Slee (C2 1987-92) recently became a Trustee of the Tutu Foundation UK.

The Foundation was created by his parents in collaboration with Desmond and Leah Tutu to help UK communities deal with conflict by promoting and using many of the ideas that helped lead to some sort of reconciliation in communities in South Africa.

The Tutu Foundation UK is currently going from strength to strength. Last year they ran a series of workshops with young people in schools and youth groups culminating in the Youth Summit.

If you want to know more please email info@tutufoundationuk.org

The Old Marlburian Polo team were in action on Saturday 4th June as part of the Cheltenham College Polo Day at Longdole. 

After the College team had finished their game, the OMs took centre stage with Patrick Ephson (C1 2003-08), Tilda Woodd (MO 2003-08), James Cooper (PR 2005-10) and Freddie Dear (TU 2006-11).

The afternoon ended in success with the OMs enjoying a victory over their Old Cheltonian counterparts, with Tilda pictured above collecting the trophy.

Jack Whitehall (B1 2001-06) appears in the Hollywood film ‘Mother’s Day’ – out in cinemas now.

A regular on the screens recently with Fresh Meat, Bad Education, Backchat With Jack Whitehall And His Dad, A League Of Their Own and stand-up shows.

The film, which sees three generations come together in the week leading up to Mother's Day, stars Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson and Julia Roberts.

Click here to view the trailer.

Last year's BBC Radio 2 series 30 Years Man And Boy, A Calmer Chameleon: The Boy George Story, was written and produced by Lewis Borg-Cardona (BH 1973-77).

The programme, for Magnum Opus Broadcasting, has just won a Gold Award at the 2016 New York Festivals 'World's Best Radio Programs' competition.

Click here to listen.

Ed Perkins (TU 1999-2004), a former Morehead-Cain Scholar, returned to Marlborough this week.

He visited the College and told Upper School pupils about the astonishing opportunity that the scholarship offers: a fully funded world class liberal arts education (including four summer programmes of enrichment) is complemented after university by the availability of an unparalleled network of alumni in top positions almost everywhere. 

Less than half a dozen lucky UK applicants are selected every year, and the competition is fierce amongst the academically excellent who demonstrate clear leadership qualities and wish to contribute to their communities. We hope another Marlburian will be inspired and selected to continue our tradition in the not too distant future.  

A selection of Cotton House 1969 leavers travelled to the Czech Republic for a reunion at the home of Vasek (CO 1968-69) & Marcela Jelinek.

Guests included Ian Crowlesmith (CO 1964-69) and his wife Lyn, Rod Hawnt (CO 1965-69) and his wife Rosie were joined by Olof Olsson (CO 1968-69).

The visit, over the May Bank Holiday weekend, included walks in the woods, visits to historical sites and plentiful sampling of Czech Beer, Slivovitz (traditional Czech plum brandy) and food. It also included a memorable International Cotton House Leavers’ Ping Pong contest. 
 
There was much talk of old times and reminiscences of other Cotton friends. Sitting together and listening to music from 1969 helped to recreate the atmosphere of those happy times and indeed it seemed only yesterday instead of 47 years ago, when Olle, Rod, Ian and Vasek listened together to the same music in Cotton House common room. There was also time to celebrate Lyn’s birthday with a special cake made for the occasion.
 
The final evening culminated in a joint effort that saw everyone's collective barbecue know-how put to good use for some tasty and perfectly grilled steaks. The icing on the cake was Vasek’s crème brûlée, which arrived after a tense struggle in the kitchen, just before the final doubles table tennis game between England (Rod & Ian) and the rest of Europe (Olle & Vasek).  
 
When the time came to part, it was agreed by everyone that the group should meet up again for a fifty-year reunion, this one to be held in New Zealand in 2019.
 
Václav Jelínek (CO 1968-69)

Miranda Wells (B3 1987-89) is relocating back to the UK after around nine years as OM Middle East Club Secretary.

Nicholas Stockwell (C2 1992-97) has agreed to take over and already has lots of ideas to implement. He can be contacted by email here.

We would like to thank Miranda for her many years of hard work for the Middle East Group.

Sarah Taylor (SU 1973-75) has been appointed as High Sheriff of Oxfordshire.

She took up the position at a ceremony in April and will spend a year in office.

You can read more about her role and about Sarah herself here.

Image courtesy of The Oxford Mail.

Juliette Casini (MM 2010-15), Belgian swimming champion in the 50, 100 and 200m freestyle, was selected to represent Belgium at the European swimming championships which took place at the aquatic centre in London last month.

The Belgian girls' relay team managed a successful performance in the finals and as a result managed to qualify for the Rio Olympics, taking 16th spot internationally.

Sadly for the team, the qualifying period remained open till the end of May, and at the last minute, Slovenia managed to better their time back home and push them back in 17th position which means that Belgium will not go to Rio unless one of the teams gets disqualified.

The Pico Players orchestra was founded in April 2014 by keen amateur musicians Rosie Wintour (MM 1996-2001) and Patrick Massey.

Since then the group has grown regularly to become a full sized symphony orchestra, with the aim of performing at least three concerts a year. A hugely successful Autumn Concert put their total fund-raising tally up to £18,000 for their chosen charities since they started two years ago.

And their next event is on Sunday 3rd July at the St James' Park Bandstand.

Click here for more information.

Alexandra Dowling (TU 2005-07) is currently starring in The Musketeers on BBC One playing Queen Anne.

She is also in Terence Rattigan’s While the Sun Shines at Bath Theatre Royal from Wednesday 13th to 30th July.

Charles Rodwell (PR 1969-73) will be exhibiting his recent paintings including work based on an inspirational trip to Rajasthan together with a selection of English landscapes and other subjects.

The paintings can be viewed on the website www.charlesrodwellarts.com and are for sale now with prices available on request. His sketches can be viewed on the Facebook page - Charles Rodwell's Rajasthan Sketchbooks.

You can follow Charles and find out about future work on his Facebook page Charles Rodwell's Studio Gallery.

The exhibition will run until this Friday 24th June 2016 at Piers Feetham Gallery, 475 Fulham Rd, London SW6 1HL.

Many congratulations to Lieutenant General John Lorimer (C1 1976-81) who was appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in the 2016 Birthday Honours.

You can read more about his career here.

Andy Beckett (SU 1983-88), author of Promised You a Miracle UK 80-82 – was recently interviewed by Radcliffe and Maconie about his book on Radio 6 Music. 

“The early 1980s in Britain were a time of hope, and of dread: of Cold War tension and imminent conflict, when crowds in the street could mean an ecstatic national celebration or an inner-city riot. Here, Andy Beckett recreates an often misunderstood moment of transition, with all its potential and uncertainty: the first precarious years of Margaret Thatcher's government. By the end of 1982, the country was changing, leaving the kinder, more sluggish postwar Britain decisively behind, and becoming the country we have lived in ever since: assertive, commercially driven, outward-looking, often harsher than its neighbours”.

The book has also been reviewed by The Guardian, which can be found here.

Amanda Jennings (née Bone) (PR 1989–91) has published a novel In Her Wake.

About the novel: A tragic family event reveals devastating news that rips apart Bella’s comfortable existence. Embarking on a personal journey to uncover the truth, she faces a series of traumatic discoveries that take her to the ruggedly beautiful Cornish coast, where hidden truths, past betrayals and a 25-year-old mystery threaten not just her identity, but her life.

Chilling, complex and profoundly moving, In Her Wake is a gripping psychological thriller that questions the nature of family – and reminds us that sometimes the most shocking crimes are committed closest to home.
Click here for more.

The 2016 Marlburian Club Summer Drinks Party took place on the evening of Tuesday 14th June.

Following on from the success of the 2014 event, this year's gathering took place at The Stationers’ Hall, by kind permission of The Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers.

Almost 200 OMs were present, enjoying drinks and canapés in the hall and garden from from 6.30pm until around 9pm.

Thanks to all those who attended - a gallery of images can be viewed here with a full review to follow in the events section of this website.

Jonathon Barton (C1 1981-86) has joined the Bank of America from Meru Capital Group as Managing Director of global swaps products and stock loans.

Click here to read the full story.

There will be a memorial concert for Peter Smith in Eton College Chapel on Saturday 15th October in the early evening, followed by drinks and canapés in the Upper School.

If you would like to take part in the memorial concert then please contact David Goode at Eton College D.Goode@etoncollege.org.uk

On Saturday 18th June, Jack Kirkwood (TU Hu) and Freddie Moorhead (TU Hu), the sons of Thomas Kirkwood (TU 1981-86) and Daniel Moorhead (B3 1981-86) are running the Ridgeway Revenge Half Marathon for charity.

Brighter Futures, based out of Great Western Hospital, is aiming to raise £2.9 million in order to make radiotherapy cancer treatment available in Swindon because currently the nearest treatment station is in Oxford which means a patient generally spends 40 days over the course of their treatment just traveling.

They want to contribute to this charity because, every year in Swindon alone, over 3,400 people are diagnosed with cancer and having a treatment centre available in Swindon would give the people in and around Swindon a far better quality of life.

DONATE HERE

Polio Children a UK and US based charity has been awarded the first Charity Clarity award organised by the Asian Voice group of newspapers.

The Charity originating in Ilford was awarded  in the fundraising category at the inaugural ceremony held last Friday at the Sheraton hotel, Park Lane, London.

The award was given in recognition as a showcase for excellence in non-profit organisations which operate in Great Britain and globally and offer a priceless leg-up to organisations that are delivering practical solutions to present-day problems. Charity Clarity rating gives Polio Children further international exposure.

"We are delighted to be selected out of so many entries. It goes to validate our performance and accountability " commented a delighted Arun Patel (Chairman, Polio Children).

Mayoor Patel BCAo (PR 1973-77) of Bolton collected the award for Polio Children and stated: 'It is an honour to accept this award on behalf of all the children we have the privilege of serving around the world’. 

At the presentation ceremony,(from L to R): The presenter and EastEnders' actor Mr Nitin Ganatra with the founding trustees of Polio Children,  Mr Arun Patel BCAh and Mr Mayoor Patel BCAo (PR 1973-77).

Congratulations to Katie Beney (MO 1989-91) and the team at Welcome to Yorkshire who won the BBC/RHS People’s Choice Award: Show Garden.

Click here for the full story.

OMs are invited to a preview evening in the Mount House Gallery featuring an exhibition curated by Artist in Residence Archie Franks.

This year Archie has put together a show not just featuring his own work but also that of the pupils he has worked with. The preview evening takes place on Friday 10th June at 6.30pm.

The exhibition opens Wednesday – Friday, 2.30pm - 5.30pm and each Saturday 9am - 12pm until Saturday 25th June.

Jake Meyer (C3 1997-02) is preparing to scale K2, the world’s second tallest mountain, which may be smaller than Everest but is far more deadly.

He began climbing on the Swanage cliffs at the age of 12, before he caught the bug at Marlborough and set himself the challenge of becoming the youngest person to scale the highest point on every continent. He became the youngest Brit at the time to scale Everest, before an attempt on K2 in 2009.

“I turned back at about 7,700metres, so about 900 vertical metres from the top. That doesn’t sound far but it’s a significant distance," he said.

Jake is fundraising for charity Walking With The Wounded, which provides support to ex-service men and women who are making the difficult transition into civilian life after leaving the military. Click here for more.

Gavin Tan (B2 1981-85), CEO of Singapore Cellresearch Corp, has been interviewed for the Peak Magazine.

"At the age of 12, he was sent to the prestigious Marlborough College in England." A self-described shy kid, Tan says those were formative years for him. “I learnt to get on and empathise with others, and to live in a community. The school taught us that with privilege comes responsibility and that we couldn’t take this education and do nothing with it," he said.

To read the full interview please click here.

If you missed Michael Elwyn’s (B3 1956-61) performance as Anthony Eden in The Audience screenings of the 2013 West End production, then there's still time.

Featuring Helen Mirren's Olivier Award-winning performance as Queen Elizabeth II, screenings return to over 650 cinemas nationwide to celebrate the monarch's 90th birthday.

In cinemas from Thursday 9th June. Find a venue and book by clicking here.

Michael Pennington (PR 1957-61), who is currently on tour as Lear in Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy King Lear, appeared on Front row on Tuesday evening talking about the production.

Please click here to listen - around 13m40 into the programme. 

You can also hear him talking about his book ‘Let me Play the Lion too: How to be an Actor’, published earlier this year - click here.

Lear will be Bath Theatre Royal week commencing 6th June and on tour until July.

It has just come to our attention that Matt Reid (CO 1985-90) won his first BAFTA last year (2015) as part of the team on “The Island with Bear Grylls”.

His other documentary work has included “Jon Richardson Grows Up” and “Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work”.  Matt - told the College that he made his first steps into filming in the audio/visual department - has also made a film about the band, New Model Army called Between Dog & Wolf which had a cinema release and is currently available on DVD. Mat particularly enjoyed the dichotomy of filming such diametrically opposed British institutions in close succession.

He has also made many documentaries for Sport/Comic Relief and is currently making a film about Bradley Wiggins as he prepares for Rio de Janeiro.

Marlburian Club Past President Nick Maurice (C3 1956-61) worked for ten days as a medical volunteer in and around the refugee camps in Calais. 

He is wrote a diary for Marlborough News Online which can be found here.

Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97) is currently running the NEAT (Nottingham European Arts and Theatre) festival.

This is a festival celebrating the extraordinary cultural life of Nottingham – from its amazing spaces and events to its status as a UNESCO City of Literature.

The festival is already underway but there are many events still to come over the next month. You can find out everything you need to know about the festival on their website here.

Commemoration and Prize Day took place at Marlborough on Saturday 28th May.

The day saw a number of Old Marlburians return to the College with fixtures for the XI, Tennis, Hockey and Lacrosse.

A video of the day can be viewed here.

Pictured: Lord Malloch-Brown KCMG PC, Chairman of Council, during his speech to parents and pupils.

Imran Tayabali FCA (LI 1989-94) will be cycling from Shelford to Southwold (c.90 miles) in memory of his father who died of Meningitis in 2008.

A Director of Chartered Accountants & Business Consultants Tayabali Tomlin & White, Imran will be taking on the challenge on Friday 8th July.

He commented: “This is an opportunity to raise money for Meningitis Now, a charity that supports those affected by the disease. If you feel able to make a donation it would be hugely appreciated.”

Click here make a donation or to read more.

The winner of the 2015 Marlburian Club Magazine crossword prize is Jason James (C3 1978-82) and a pair of OM cufflinks is on the way to him.

You can read the 2015 edition of The Marlburian Club Magazine online by clicking here.

James Sennett (TU 2008-13) is organising a charity cricket match between an OM XI and a Sepsis Select XI for the UK Sepsis Trust.

James lost his father to septicaemia some 15 months ago and this match is taking place in his memory, to raise more awareness of the disease and to fund some money for the charity.

The 20/20 limited overs match will take place on the XI on Friday 10th June with play due to begin at 6.15pm. James was captain of the XI in 2013 and the OM side will be from his generation.

He said: “My father was a great sportsman and there was nothing more enjoyable for him than to take part in or watch cricket all around the world.

“This is an open invitation for anyone who would like to watch a good game of cricket on a hot (hopefully) summer evening with a glass of wine and to take part in raising some money for the UK Sepsis Trust in a happy environment.”

A BBQ and drinks will be provided with all support welcome, especially Old Marlburians!

Click here for the Just Giving page.

Several OMs returned to The Memorial Hall on Friday 20th May for the Orchestral & Ensembles Concert.

Tom Hooker (LI 2001-06) played the French horn whilst Joe Arkwright (SU 2010-15), Ellen Arkwright (MM 2007-12) were in the audience to witness their father, Alex (CR 1995-, pictured), conducting Brasser. Millie Ashworth (MO 2006-11), Tom Cayley (CO 2010-15) and Julia Mackie (née Daniels, B3 1978-80) were also present for what was a memorable and emotional evening.

Click here for a review of the event by Clare Toomer, Deputy Head of Music.

Gordon Hamilton-Fairley (CO 1946-48) is featured on the BBC Radio 4 'Great Lives' series.

He was a brilliant cancer specialist, the father of oncology in the UK. Then in 1975 he was killed by an IRA bomb intended for a politician who lived in his street.

Former editor of the Daily Telegraph Charles Moore chooses a man cut down in his prime. Please click here to listen.

Neil Hall's (SU 1961-63) latest book 'Salisbury in the Great War' will soon be available.

Published by PEN and SWORD MILITARY (ISBN-10 1473843731) - you can pre-order here

Available from all good bookshops from Saturday 30th May. ‘The war invisibly regulated our lives’, commented a Salisbury resident when recalling the calamity known as the Great War.

Eventually, in 1918, the war ended. The people of Salisbury had adapted, endured and ‘done their bit’. Surely they believed this was the war to end all wars. Uniquely compiled from extensive archives, personal interviews and with striking images. This book unveils the minutiae of the Salisbury Home Front.

The London Residents Club is offering work experience over the summer to any competent Marlburians out there.

Based off the Kings Road The London Residents Club rents out high end London properties on Airbnb. The role will include a lot of responsibility and the candidate will be plunged in at the deep end. There will be no tea making!

With plenty of opportunity for problem solving the candidate will be expected to think outside of the box to come up with innovative solutions. This is perfect for someone who wants to see how a small company is run or for someone who plans on setting up their own company in the future. Travel expenses and lunch will be paid at £15 a day and there will be some financial incentive.
Although initially a week long there is an opportunity to extend it up to a month plus.

If you would like to hear more please email Thomas Archer (C3 2002-07) at thomas@thelondonresidentsclub.com

Arthur Kay (PR 2004-09) is bio-bean's founder and CEO. In two years, he has grown the bio-bean team to 25 and built the world's first waste coffee recycling factory. He is now launching their latest product - Coffee Logs -  recycling coffee waste into biofuel you can use in the home.

Find out more about Bio Bean’s crowdfunding campaign - live until 23 May as part of #VOOM. They are exclusively accepting orders for Coffee Logs and a range of exciting rewards (free coffee, mugs, tickets and more!) via this campaign.

Coffee Logs are biomass briquettes that can be used in a wide range of appliances such as wood burning stoves, pizza ovens, BBQs, smokers, chimeneas or just on your open fire at home. When compared to conventional fuels, Coffee Logs are more sustainable, cheaper, hotter, burn for longer, and are sourced and manufactured from waste coffee grounds by bio-bean in the UK.
bio-¬bean works with coffee shops, office blocks, transport hubs, instant coffee factories, roasteries and waste management companies from all over the UK to collect tens of thousands of tonnes of waste coffee grounds and recycle them into a range of innovative biofuel products and can recycle 1 in 10 cups of coffee drunk in the UK. Click here to discover more.

Perdy has moved to Italy and is currently studying Italian and History of Art in Florence with the British Institute of Florence.

Her course comes to an end in June and she is looking to stay in Italy to work in Milan or Rome. She is wondering whether there are any OMs with contacts in the regions to whom she could enquire about work placements.

If you can help Perdy, please contact the Marlburian Club via email.

Were you at Hawtreys Prep School? Edward Harford, father of James (CO 1997-02), is organising an old boys’ reunion this summer.

The event will take place at Tottenham House on Friday 8th July with those interested in attending asked to get in touch via email here.

Watch Your Head is a theatre company set up by Sasha McMurray (LI 2005-07) and Sara Langridge (MO 2005-07). Following the success of their open air immersive A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Savill Garden, Windsor Great Park in 2015 they will return with an immersive As You Like It in 2016.

Watch Your Head aims to create exciting theatrical experiences, engaging as many people as possible with accessible and visually exciting versions of classic texts.

As a young, unsubsidised company with high production costs, the company relies on sponsorship and investment in order to get the shows up and running. Watch Your Head operate with the belief that while many people enjoy the arts, those who make a career out of it are often pitifully remunerated or not at all. The company aims to pay performers and creatives properly. Any support or interest in collaboration would be much appreciated.

Their website is www.watch-your-head.co.uk  and tickets are available on their site.

A gathering of ten Old Marlburians recently took place at the Honourable Artillery Company in the City. The lunch was organised by Adrian Platt (C2 1949-54), with the help of Michael Virtue (C2 1949-54), who is also a member at the venue.

Whilst some of them had been able to keep in touch, many had not seen each other for about 62 years! Despite that they enjoyed a very happy get together and found that they had so much in common even though their lives had taken different directions.

After much research, and help from the Marlburian Club, Adrian and Michael were able locate a good nucleus of old friends, even if sadly some friends were no longer with us. By coincidence the majority were from C2 with a number from Preshute. They are all keen to have another lunch in two years' time, particularly the Preshute contingent who hope to have more representatives, and hopefully some from other houses. 

Best wishes to Patrick Keightley (C2 1949-53) who had hoped to be there but was unwell and to David Slee (C2 1950-54), who was coming from Australia, broke his ankle and could not travel.

If anyone in this year range or close to it would like to be contacted for future lunches please get in touch.

From the left [in beard] Jimmy Doak (C2 1949-53), Robert Savory (C2 1949-53), Michael Virtue (C2 1949-54), Jeremy Coltart (PR 1949-54), John Labouchere (PR 1950-54), Muir Stratford (PR 1949-54), Ben Hopkinson (C2 1949-54), David Forster (C2 1949-53), Chris Bond (C2 1950-54), Adrian Platt (C2 1949-54).

Alastair Cameron (B2 1983-88) is living in Edinburgh and working as an independent management consultant. 

In addition to client work and family life, Alastair founded a non-party pro-UK movement, Scotland In Union in March 2015. The group promotes a positive view of Scotland within the UK, and seeks to counter the rise of nationalism in Scotland.

Alastair would welcome any interest and support from other OMs, in Scotland or elsewhere, and can be contacted via SIU's website.

Old Marlburians are invited to join Sir David and Lady Chapman for dinner with the Master and Emma Leigh, at The Northern Counties Club on Thursday 19th May.

This evening will be a wonderful opportunity to meet other OMs living in the area; to socialise, reminisce and hear from the Master about the latest news from the College. Previous such events have been a greBook Nowat success.

The evening will begin at 7.15pm with a drinks reception and the dress code is lounge suits. The cost of the evening is £35 to include a three course meal, wine, and coffee in addition to the drinks reception. To keep costs low, Sir David Chapman (LI 1955-59) is very kindly subsidising the evening. Guests are welcome. Please click here to book.

A date has been confirmed for an OM Lacrosse match – with the call now out for players!

The fixture will take place at Marlborough on Prize Day, Saturday 28th May against the College.

Jen Cohen, Mistress in Charge of Lacrosse, said: “Over the years the College’s lacrosse program has expanded and we now have 6 teams representing Marlborough on a regular basis.

“Players have made county and regional teams during their time at Marlborough and some have even gone on to play for England and Scotland. This match is an opportunity for OMs to come back to the College and enjoy an afternoon playing lacrosse once again.”

If you would like to take part in the match then please send an email to Kate Goodwin, Alumni Relations Manager, here.

Marlborough College regards the protection and welfare of pupils as being of paramount importance.

The College acknowledges the crucial role played by staff in nourishing and supporting the personal, emotional and social growth of pupils, and the need for robust and clearly articulated systems for child protection and for pupil safeguarding within the College environment.

Marlborough College commends the work of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse. This inquiry, which began its work under Hon. Dame Lowell Goddard in July 2015, will investigate whether public bodies and other non-state institutions have taken seriously their duty of care to protect children from sexual abuse in England and Wales.  

All staff at Marlborough share in this duty of care to pupils: this underpins our commitment to the notion that living and working together in a co-educational, full boarding community brings value to the lives of its pupils.

Further information about the inquiry can be found here.

Marlborough College’s Development & Alumni Relations Office is looking for outgoing and reliable OMs to play a vital role in its 2016 fundraising campaign from Saturday 18th June to Saturday 9th July 2016.

Accommodation is free, pay is excellent, full training is provided.  As well as helping the future of the College you will develop relevant skills in marketing, communication and negotiation.

It will also be fun. OMs like to hear about Marlborough today, and many have interesting experiences to share.

Click here for more information.

Watch Your Head is a theatre company set up by Sasha McMurray (LI 2005-07) and Sara Langridge (MO 2005-07).

Following the success of their open air immersive A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Savill Garden, Windsor Great Park in 2015 they will return with an immersive As You Like It in 2016. Watch Your Head aims to create exciting theatrical experiences, engaging as many people as possible with accessible and visually exciting versions of classic texts.
 
As a young, unsubsidised company with high production costs, the company relies on sponsorship and investment in order to get the shows up and running. Watch Your Head operate with the belief that while many people enjoy the arts, those who make a career out of it are often pitifully remunerated or not at all. The company aims to pay performers and creatives properly. Any support or interest in collaboration would be much appreciated.

For further information email Sasha here.

Tandem is a year-round arts project based in Oxford set up by Nina Brown (MO 2000-05).

It is about bringing eco-friendliness to new audiences through the arts, all whilst celebrating vibrant cultures from across Europe and beyond. As a not-for-profit initiative, any surplus made will be re-invested back into local community groups and cultural enterprises focused on sustainability and environmentalism. Tandem is a volunteer-run enterprise and more information can be found here.

Nina also runs InTandem, which brings international writers and artists together to collaboratively produce publications that deal with a broad spectrum of environmental and social issues. They fuse fact, fiction, poetry, photography, and illustration to make these issues accessible to new audiences. InTandem is a not-for-profit initiative. To submit to the third edition, please follow this link.

Kim Bishop (CO 1988-93) is looking for staff to work the ski season (December 2016 - April 2017) and would like to invite this term’s leavers to apply.

The resort will require people to work in the restaurants, bar and potentially supermarket in the resort of El Tarter in Andorra. They require hard working applicants to be fluent (or near fluent) in Spanish and or French.

They will provide a season ski pass to Grandvalira resort, accommodation in El Tarter for the season, a monthly wage in the region of 1,000 Euros, return travel to and from El Tarter at the beginning and end of season provided and full training and support.

The working week will consist of six days on and one day off, regular hours per week will be 48 with the option of working more for extra cash or time off. Duties will be those associated with bar, restaurant and supermarket work.

Kim says: “I understand that people who come out to work a ski season want to ski, we obviously will support this, but anyone coming out needs to understand that we expect a level of commitment in order to help us provide a high level service to customers.

“This is a new part of our business (our core business being residential apartments in El Tarter) and we hope to be able to offer an exciting seasonal opportunity whilst expecting a certain level of commitment.”

Please email here for more information.

OMs interested in learning more about the luxury sector are invited to attend a Panel Event - ‘The Face of British Luxury Today’ – which takes place this Thursday.

Tessa Packard (TU 2001-03), the founder and creative director of Tessa Packard London, will be leading the event that will take place at Collyer Bristow in London. To book your place please email events@collyerbristow.com

Speakers will include:
- Georgina Coleridge Cole, founder of Sheerluxe
- Shirley Leigh Wood of Wickerwood, a luxury brand influence agency
- Jacob Tomkins of Twelve, a watch specialist and luxury consultant
- Ed Taylor, Director, Quintessentially Communications (Chair)

Having ignored advice “not to pursue the career path she wanted to because it was too competitive”, Emily Chiswell (SU 2000–02) has become a successful continuity announcer on BBC 1 and 2 and voiceover artist.

As a result she has set up www.passionpods.co.uk with the aim of inspiring and encouraging young people to seek out those creative, unusual careers that can so often seem impossible. The series has over 75 exclusive interviews with an impressive line-up of entrepreneurs and creative minds.

If you would like to get involved or think you could support young people that are pursuing their passion or if you just want to know more contact Emily via her website.

Hannah McCollum (MM 2003-08) has recently pitched her start-up company, ChicP to Richard Branson's Pitch To Rich Competition.

ChicP makes a variety of sweet & savoury hummus from surplus vegetables.

Please click here to vote for Hannah’s company and help her on her way to success.

Tristan Robbins (CO 2009-14) has been selected by the Madison Genesis Team for his biggest and highest profile race: Le Tour de Yorkshire.

He has been riding professionally for two years and will compete in the Category 1 race on the pro circuit organised by the Tour de France ASO organisation. It is hugely prestigious and was included on the pro circuit after the success of the Grand Depart in Yorkshire in 2014. Big names are taking part including Wiggins, Hayman (who just won Paris Roubaix last weekend), Voeckler, Bernie Eisel and others.

ITV4 are showing the three-day stage race live during the day Friday-Sunday this week; highlights will be at 7pm on those same evenings.

Follow the team on Twitter via @MadisonGenesis

Tim O'Donovan was honoured to receive the Royal Maundy from Her Majesty The Queen in St George’s Chapel, Windsor on Thursday 24th March 2016. 

84-year old O'Donovan has authored the annual survey of Royal Family engagements published in The Times since 1979. He is also a retired lay steward for St George's Chapel, and said he began keeping the record "out of curiosity" after thinking "perhaps one should know what the Royal Family are doing". Click here for the full story.

Congratulations to all Old Marlburians who ran the London Marathon on Sunday 24th April.

Jim Ashley-Down (BH 1991-96) ran to raise money for Phab Kids (www.phabkids.co.uk), a charity offering children with disabilities unique experiences in outdoor activity centres. Support him here.

Congratulations also go to Roger Backhouse (C1 1974-79), Alex Backhouse (LI 2005 -10), Robert Gibson (C2 2007-12), Tom Rowe-Jones (LI 2005-10) who ran as part of Team Blind as a Bat - managed by Theo Backhouse (LI 2007-12). Roger, who has RP himself, is trustee and long-time supporter of the charity and he ran the London Marathon for RP Fighting Blindness in 2010. They have now raised almost £125,000.

Awarded a Travel Scholarship from the Arthur Scott Fund in 2015, Charlie Bawden (MM 2010-15) has recently spent time volunteering at Springvale House in Zimbabwe, which serves as the preparatory school within the Peterhouse Group of Schools. She writes:
 
Having spent the first five years of my life on the campus of the Boys’ School, it was a real pleasure to return to the place that I have always remembered so fondly.

As a Junior Mistress (JM), I mainly spent my time looking after the 12 infant boarders (Grade 1 and 2) who were five or six years old. The day started at 6.00am when I woke them up and made sure they were dressed having brushed their teeth and made their beds (with pyjamas perfectly folded under their pillows!) before we went to breakfast.

After serving breakfast to my table and attending assembly (which even in the middle of winter occurred outside), I spent the morning listening to the Grade 1, 2, 3 and 4s read. This was very important for the younger pupils as I had to make sure that each child had the right book and words to read to the Grade 7 monitors, teachers or parents later on in the day. I found the reading so rewarding. To see the children, especially the ones who struggled, make huge improvements with their words was lovely.

Every afternoon, after taking the day scholars siesta for an hour, I coached sport whether it was Grade 3 girls hockey and netball or Grade 4 boys rugby! I thoroughly enjoyed every minute spent in the sun coaching the children and was very fortunate to have four other JM’s whom I spent much of my time with. Three of whom were also extremely keen cricketers! My evenings consisted of making sure the infants had polished their shoes and then properly showered and dried themselves before getting dressed for supper. I then put the infants to bed at 7pm usually after a story and a prayer.

I was also lucky enough to get the opportunity to accompany the Grade 7s (equivalent of Year 8) on their week long residential trip to Rifa Educational Camp, North Zimbabwe. I found this week particularly enjoyable as our accomodation was in the middle of the bush and I had to supervise many activities that I myself have never done and might never do again. On three occasions I was part of a group which canoed up the croc and hippo infested Zambezi River and was responsible for two children within my canoe. This was quite nerve-racking as a small deviation into a current could lead to a confrontation with crocodile or hippo. However, the week was thoroughly enjoyable and the children were a pleasure to look after.

Although I did not myself attend a boarding preparatory school, there were many differences between Marlborough and Springvale. Imagine if every pupil at Marlborough had to polish their shoes every day to be inspected and then remember to take their serviettes to and from the dining hall! It really was a different world but I really enjoyed the teaching experience. It was so interesting spending time with children who were from completely different backgrounds All of the pupils were so polite and I soon felt so at home as the staff were so welcoming. I made some incredible friends and I plan to return back soon.

Charlie Bawden (MM 2010-15)

Alex Price (LI 2006-11) has been named as one of the 'top 100 most influential people in digital' by the British Interactive Media Association, the youngest person to ever make the list aged 23.

BIMA represents Britain’s digital industry – founded in 1985, BIMA is now one of the most widely respected names in the digital community, working to inspire and support talent, connect the digital community and reward great work.

The annual BIMA HOT 100 aims to recognise those who have had the biggest impact on the digital industry, naming BIMA’s ‘100 most influential people in digital’.

Commenting on the news, Alex said: “The start of 2016 has been incredibly exciting for 93digital, having recently moved into a bigger office and taken on 3 new team members. To be included in the BIMA 100 this year alongside such an inspiring list of names tops it off.”

Chris George (C2 1960-64) will be going to Texas to compete on the North American Iron Man Championships on Saturday 14th May with the aim of qualifying for Kona World Championships.

To get through, Chris must win his age group (the 70-74 age group) and to this end he has a training programme of 10 to 20 hours a week.

The World Championships are on Saturday 8th October. In addition, Chris has been invited to be a guest substitute rower in the Head of the Charles later in October as part of the USA 1980 Olympic Heavyweight Eight team.

Click here for further information or for a video feature of his win in 2012, click here.

A helping hand from Old Marlburians helped the College to success at Bisley on Saturday 16th April.

Shooting at 300 yards, and then again at 600 yards, in bitterly cold wind, two competitions were held, one for a team of three Old Marlburians and three current pupils, and one for a team of six current pupils.

In the mixed competition, Schuyler Neuhauser (B1 U6), Oskar Money-Kyrle (C3 L6) and Tom Elvin (BH Hu) shot alongside Sandy Gill (BH 1996-2000), Charles Brooks (PR 1969-74) and Jim Spender (C2 1987-92), scoring 562 with 47 V bulls, but were unlucky to come fourth in a very close competition.

They did, however, manage to beat Wellington’s B team, who were perhaps brought down from within by Mr Finn unexpectedly being called upon to shoot for his alma mater!

Elvin top scored for the College with 94 and 8 V bulls, but was rather outshone by a brilliant performance from Sandy Gill with 99 and 14 V bulls.

2016 is the 40th Anniversary of the foundation of the charity RP fighting Blindness. To mark this a team of 24 is running the London Marathon under the name Blind as a Bat.

Team Blind as a Bat was put together by Roger Backhouse (C1 1974-79), who has RP himself and is trustee and long-time supporter of the charity; he ran the London Marathon for RP Fighting Blindness in 2010 with his brother Oliver, an eye surgeon in Leeds, and is now taking on an even bigger challenge for the charity’s fortieth anniversary and has put together a whole team of runners. Of this team there are four OM runners and one non-runner.

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the name given to a group of inherited conditions of the retina that lead to a gradual progressive loss in vision. Difficulties with night vision and peripheral vision are the first things that are noticed; later, reading, colour, and central vision are affected. There is currently no cure for retinitis pigmentosa, but many researchers are working hard to develop a treatment.

The team is raising money for Professor Robin Ali of the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, who is a world-respected medical researcher and leading expert in the field of gene and stem cell therapy. Roger and his brother raised money for the start of a pioneering five-year gene therapy research project of Professor Ali’s in 2010, which aims to develop a treatment for RP, and now they want to help him fund its final year. The money raised by Team Blind as a Bat will be contributing to building a programme of clinical trials, which is the next stage of finding an effective treatment.

Runners:
Roger Backhouse (C1 1974-79)
Alex Backhouse (LI 2005 -10)
Robert Gibson (C2 2007-12)
Tom Rowe-Jones (LI 2005-10)

Non-Runner (manager):
Theo Backhouse (LI 2007-12)

Alex Price (LI 2006-11) has been named as one of the 'top 100 most influential people in digital' by the British Interactive Media Association, the youngest person to ever make the list aged 23.

BIMA represents Britain’s digital industry – founded in 1985, BIMA is now one of the most widely respected names in the digital community, working to inspire and support talent, connect the digital community and reward great work.

The annual BIMA HOT 100 aims to recognise those who have had the biggest impact on the digital industry, naming BIMA’s ‘100 most influential people in digital’.

Commenting on the news, Alex said: “The start of 2016 has been incredibly exciting for 93digital, having recently moved into a bigger office and taken on 3 new team members. To be included in the BIMA 100 this year alongside such an inspiring list of names tops it off.”

Huge congratulations to Will Eversfield (C3 2007-12) who represented England Rugby on Saturday 9th April.

Will played for England Students in their 57-30 win against Ireland Students in Dublin, with the game played at at Trinity College in Dublin.

Having just returned from the game, Will’s father, Geoff, commented: “We all went over to Dublin and saw the match at Trinity in beautiful surroundings (and England triumphed!) - so all those days of thinking about rugby when he should have been focused on Chemistry may have paid off!”

Archbishop of Canterbury’s chaplain, the Rev. Canon Jo Bailey Wells (B3 1981-83), will be the fifth bishop of Dorking in the Church of England’s Diocese of Guildford.

Wells, 50, studied at the University of Minnesota and from 2005 to 2013 was the director of the Anglican Episcopal House of Studies at Duke Divinity School in North Carolina.

She was Chaplain of Clare College, Cambridge from 1995 to 1998 and Dean from 1998 to 2001. From 2001 to 2005 Jo served as a lecturer in Old Testament and Biblical Theology at Ridley Hall, Cambridge.

Click here to read the full story.

Alessandro Latif (B1 2009-14) left Brands Hatch in optimistic mood following the opening round of the 2016 Porsche Carrera Cup GB, after impressing with his pace and prowess on his sportscar racing comeback, writes Russell Atkins.
 
Having plied his trade in single-seaters throughout 2015 in North America’s Pro Mazda Championship, Latif has returned to home turf this year and is contesting the fiercely-disputed, ITV4-televised Porsche Carrera Cup GB – the UK’s fastest one-make series – for the first time with former title-winning outfit GT Marques.
 
The rising young British star featured up towards the sharp end throughout practice around Brands’ short Indy layout, posting the sixth-quickest effort amongst the 23 high-calibre protagonists in the opening session.

“The level of opposition in the Porsche Carrera Cup GB this year is extremely strong – including the reigning champion and a number of drivers who have been competing in the series for several years – but our pace was promising from the outset,” reflected the 2014 Blancpain Sprint Series Pro-Am Champion.

Click here for the full story.

Edward Bayntun-Coward (PR 1979-84) was sworn in as High Sheriff of Somerset at Wells Cathedral on Sunday 13th March.

Edward is the great-grandson of George Bayntun and son of Hylton. He read Modern History at Oxford University and then worked for five years at Maggs Bros. in London. He now runs George Bayntun, a venerable bookbindery and rare books seller in Bath that was founded by his great-grandfather in 1894.

He is also Chairman of the Bath Preservation Trust and various museums.

Click here to read a recent feature in the New York Times.

Georgia Cummings (MO 2000-05), Founder & CEO of Potage, is inviting OMs to the first event at Potage HQ hosted by the team.

The goal is to bring people together to enjoy food, drink and conversation for the event which will be held on Tuesday 3rd May at Potage HQ in Battersea.

Nick Wheeler, founder of Charles Tyrwhitt will be the speaker. Nick started the mail order shirt business in 1986 while he was still at Bristol University, today the business employs over 750 people and his shirts are sold all over the world.

Tickets can be purchased online here.

This summer James Lam (CO 2007-2012) will be leading an Oxford University Expedition to Svalbard in the High Arctic.

They will attempt a 184-mile crossing of East Spitsbergen in the Svalbard Archipelago, just 700 miles from the North Pole. They will retrace an Oxford expedition that explored this region of the Arctic in 1923, one which has yet to be repeated. For five weeks they will ski entirely unsupported, towing all their equipment in sledges and building on the previous expedition’s scientific legacy. James became obsessed with climbing and subsequently with expeditions almost as soon as he started in Shell. Since his first trip to the Alps with Marlborough Outdoor Activities led by the late Mr Rosedale and other members of the OA department in 2008 he has never looked back!  He sees this expedition as a chance to also work on another passion that began when he was at Marlborough: using science to ‘make a difference’. The main purpose of this expedition is to record the effects of climate change in this Arctic region.

Travelling to one of the farthest, frozen corners of the Earth is a major undertaking in itself, and is one which carries significant financial costs. The whole team are making major personal contributions to ensure the expedition’s viability. In addition, they are applying to a number of charitable and scientific bodies for funding, but there is a limit to what they can provide. Through the generosity of private donors and sponsors, relatively modest sums can help achieve a great deal. James is asking any OMs who have an interest in this undertaking and who have the capacity to do so to consider making a donation towards the costs of what will potentially be an important expedition. They would be immensely grateful for any support.

At the end of June, all donors will be invited to an evening in Oxford to celebrate the 1923 expedition. They will showcase a number of artefacts and a presentation will be given about the historical perspective of our trip. To support the team and find out more about the expedition please visit the website svalbard2016.com or contact James via email.

A statue of Sir Nigel Gresley (B1 1890-93) will be unveiled at King’s Cross station in London at 11am this morning, on the 75th anniversary of Gresley’s death.

Sir Nigel designed the Doncaster-built Flying Scotsman and the Mallard locomotive steam engines.

The unveiling of the new statue at London Kings Cross station coincides with the 75th anniversary of his death.

John Cameron, CBE, President of The Gresley Society, commented:

“This is a very special day. The Gresley Society are delighted to see this superb statue of Sir Nigel Gresley unveiled at King’s Cross, a place that was so important to his life’s work.

“I congratulate Hazel Reeves on the way she has caught the essence of this great engineer. It will stand as a memorial to his achievements for future generations, and to the quality of British engineering.”

Network Rail chairman Sir Peter Hendy will unveil the statue with members of Sir Nigel's family.

Gordon Welchman (C3 1920-25) was one of the original elite codebreakers crucial to the allies defeating the Nazis in World War II. He is the forgotten genius of Bletchley Park.

Filmed extensively at Bletchley Park, the centre for codebreaking operations during World War II, this documentary features the abandoned buildings where thousands of people worked tirelessly trying to crack the codes, Hut 6, where Welchman pioneered his groundbreaking work, and the machines that Welchman helped design.

The documentary is now available to view on BBC iPlayer here and was shown on Sunday 3rd April.

The 2016 South-West France lunch will take place in Le Castéra this Saturday 2nd April.

Now a regular fixture in the Marlburian Club calendar, the event will be hosted by John Wilkinson (CR 1967-93), Secretary in SW France.

This year it is hoped that the Master, Jonathan Leigh, and his wife, Emma, will attend alongside regular attendee – Martin Evans – President of the 1843 Society.

The President of The Marlburian Club, Olivia Timbs (C1 1970-72), has also expressed an interest.

For more information or to book your attendance please email John Wilkinson via email.

Congratulations to Georgina Daniell (MM 2007-12) who was a part of the Oxford Women’s reserve boat ‘Osiris’ in this year’s Cancer Research UK Boat Race.

A winner in the 2015 event, George was denied back to back success as Cambridge won this year’s contest – which took place on Sunday 27th March.

22-year old Georgia, who is studying Experimental Psychology and a full race report can be viewed here.

Following the highly successful production of his own stage adaptation of The Hudsucker Proxy, Simon Dormandy (C2 1971-75) is directing the UK Premier of Luce.

The performances take place at The Southwark Playhouse and run until this Saturday 2nd April with Mel Giedroyc and Josette Simon among the cast. 

Please click here for further information including ticket details.

Today’s Google Doodle pays tribute to William Morris, who was a pupil at Marlborough in Aa House between 1848 and 1851.

Five different designs adorn the Google homepage throughout what would have been his 182nd birthday, Thursday 24th March 2016.

Witten on the Google website: “It's nearly impossible to sum up William Morris' contributions to British design, arts, and aesthetics. A true prodigy, Morris dove deeply into each of his many interests, leaving us a rich legacy in multiple fields.

“A relentless creative, Morris played with patterns in words as well. In 1856, he founded the Oxford and Cambridge Magazine, writing and publishing many of his early poems there. He lectured publicly on socialism, art, architecture, and founded or held titles in multiple artists’ groups, such as the Hammersmith Socialist Society and the Art Workers Guild.”

Click here for more.

Sir Philip Williams (LI 1963-68) has been ‘pricked’ at a 1,000 year tradition to appoint a High Sheriff of Dorset. 

The names of nominees are pricked on vellum so they could not avoid the position which was an unpopular and dangerous role – the first incumbent fell foul of irate Vikings in Weymouth while collecting taxes and was killed.

Not many wanted it because they were liable for any perceived shortfall in income and would often try and bribe their way out of it but there was no disputing the pin hole and the practice survives to this day.

Sir Philip will make his Declaration of Office in front of invited guests in the Victorian Gallery of the Dorset County Museum on Tuesday 29th March. Click here for the full story.

Sir Philip said it was an honour and a privilege to take on the role, He will be following in his mother's footsteps - Elizabeth, Lady Williams was the first female High Sheriff in 1979.

Tristan Robbins (CO 2009-14) claims Mark Cavendish's decision to help coach riders on his Madison Genesis team could help him achieve his dream of riding the Tour de France.

Cavendish, the Tour's green jersey winner in 2011, has agreed a deal to support the 19-year-old who rides for the British Madison-Genesis team from 2016 in a new partnership.

"I am pretty much a full-time bike rider now. The workload has increased hugely due to the longer distances of the races I will be doing but the specifics within it are quite similar. I'm just doing more of them.”

Click here for the full story in the Bristol Post.

Grace Jackson (LI 2007-09) has been awarded an OBE for her work with the Ebola response team in Sierra Leone.

She is the youngest person from the Department for International Development to be appointed OBE, at 24 years of age.

Congratulations to Constantin Atnas (SU 1993-96) who has been elected to the Foreign Trade Council of the Austrian Federal Economic Chambers.

This is a 20-member panel representing Austria’s exporting industries and companies. 

Congratulations are also due to his sister, Catherine ‘Kiki’ Atnas (SU 1996-98), who has recently completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Surrey.

Former Master John Dancy was among 21 Second World War veterans from across Cornwall presented the Legion d’honneur by Alain Sibril the French Honorary Counsel at a ceremony in Truro on Thursday 3rd March.

The French Government has been awarding the Légion d’honneur to D-Day veterans to honour and thank those who fought and risked their lives to secure France’s liberation during the Second World War. 

The Légion d’honneur was established in 1802 by Napoléon Bonaparte and is France’s highest distinction and awarded in recognition of both military and civilian merit.

Miles Bolus, Marlburian Club Secretary for Southern Spain met with Andrew Linn and Nicholas Grose-Hodge at a monthly luncheon of Marbella Business International.

Pictured above (l-r) are Andrew J Linn (B2 1955-59) (Marbella-based for the last 40 years); Nicolas Grose-Hodge (LI 1956-61) (previously Malaga-based, now resident in Winchester but a regular visitor to Spain) and Miles Bolus (B1 1945-49) (Marbella-based, Spain-based for last 50 plus years!)

During his travels George Sopwith (LI 2006-11) met the people of Thanamir village and has become involved with them in their Community Conservation project to create a formally recognised reserve that will protect an area of virgin forest.

Thanamir’s forests fall in to the Indo-Malayan region, a global biodiversity hotspot that are home to many endangered species such as the hoolock gibbon, Asiatic black bear and clouded leopard. Tigers are still occasionally reported in this area and with sufficient protection could make a comeback.

"We have been working in partnership with the Wildlife Protection Society of India and with their help have made significant progress on the project," he said. If you are interested in supporting this project please visit their Just Giving page or email George here.

Sophie Spink (MO 2009-2014) and Annabel Hazlitt (MO 2009-2014) both played for Oxford in a 2-1 Varsity Hockey win against Cambridge recently.

Sophie and Annabel were both regular performers during their time at the College and congratulations to them both on their Varsity victory.

Neil Cleminson (CR 1989-2012) is offering Easter revision in Fulham, specialising in A Level Physics and, perhaps uniquely, Common Entrance Maths/Physics/Chemistry.

Please visit www.oystereducation.com for details.

Congratulations to Katyuli Lloyd (MO 1998–2003) who has just completed her MA in Children’s Book Illustration at the Cambridge School of Art.

She has also been short-listed for the Victoria and Albert Museum illustration prize in the Student Category for her illustrations for Virginia Woolf’s novel ‘Flush’.

Katyuli’s work can be seen at the Graduation Exhibition at Ruskin Gallery, East Road, Cambridge, from 25th February until 5th March.

Click here for more information or visit her website here.

Susanna Spicer (SU 1979-81) will be singing the part of The Angel in the Dream of Gerontius with the MC Choral Society in Chapel.

The evening will take place this Sunday 13th March, starting at 7.30pm.

The second of two performances by bands from Seb Fagg’s (C1 2004-09) Yucatan record label took place in the Mem Hall on Saturday 5th March.

After a sequence of electronic music by Tom Niven (B1 2004-09), Wovoka Gentle (Will Stokes (B1 2003-08), Immie Mason and Ellie Mason) treated us to a performance of high quality musicianship.

Using a rich mix of electronics, loops, guitars, violin and acoustic percussion, they performed a set of bewitching richness. Intelligent, engaging and with keen attention to detail, their songs wove a beguiling narrative. The performance was enhanced by Olivia Norris – a dancer with the troupe ‘Stasis’, and by the projection of her film made specifically for Wovoka Gentle’s performances.

Recordings of the band’s music are available from Yucatan Records or iTunes; their music can be heard on Soundcloud, iTunes or Spotify. Or visit their Facebook page.

Congratulations to Michael Pennington (PR 1957-61) who has been nominated in the Best Actor in a Supporting Role in the 2016 Olivier Awards for his performance as Antigonus in The Winter’s Tale. 

The ceremony is at the Royal Opera House on the Sunday 3rd April.

Best Actor in a Supporting Role: Mark Gatiss for Three Days In The Country at National Theatre, Lyttelton Michael Pennington for The Winter's Tale at Garrick Theatre, Tom Sturridge for American Buffalo at Wyndham's Theatre, David Suchet for The Importance Of Being Earnest at Vaudeville Theatre

Jonathan Hall’s (C1 1974-1979) firm Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM) recently won the RIBA Stirling prize for architecture for 2015 for Burntwood School.

Jonathan has also been involved in the recently completed award winning schemes; Sunshine House, a Children's Development Centre in Southwark, and housing developments at Church Street and Crown Street Buildings.

Jonathan has been an external examiner at the University of New England and a Part III examiner at the University College of London as well as lecturing at architectural schools in the UK. He has contributed to architectural publications including Architecture Today and Building Design and has been a member of the RIBA Journal Practice editorial committee.

Find out more about Jonathan and the work of AHMM here.

Simon McBurney’s (LI 1971-75) ‘The Encounter’ will be streamed live from The Barbican this evening.

A review of the performance by Michael Billington can be read here courtesy of The Guardian.

To access the live stream please click here.

The Flying Scotsman, designed by Sir Nigel Gresley (B1 1890-93), returned to action this morning after a £4.2 million, 10-year refit.

Departing from London King’s Cross at 7.40am, with its inaugural run destined for York.

The locomotive was built in Doncaster becoming the first locomotive of the newly formed London and North Eastern Railway (LNER). It left the works on 24 February 1923 with number 1472.

It was designed by Gresley as part of the A1 class – the most powerful locomotives used by the LNER at that time.

In 1934, Scotsman was clocked at 100mph on a special test run – officially the first locomotive in the UK to have reached that speed.

A statue of Gresley will be unveiled at King’s Cross station in London on Tuesday 5th April 2016, the 75th anniversary of Gresley’s death.

Pictured above: Sir Nigel Gresley with its inventor, Sir Nigel Gresley (B1 1890-93)

Claire Lowdon (MO 1998-2003) returned to Marlborough on Tuesday 23rd February to speak to the Literary Society.

She spoke in Adderley to an appreciative Literary Society audience about the writing of her first novel, 'Left of the Bang', which one reviewer has called 'the definitive novel of a generation of Londoners.' 

Her talk about the craft of writing was compelling, generous and candid - a fascinating insight into the creative process.

Mayoor Patel (PR 1973-77) whose passion for education has directly helped more than 2,000 children has been recognised with a national honour by the British Citizen Award (BCA) Committee for his services to international achievement. Mayoor was one of 33 medallists who were honoured at a prestigious ceremony on January 28th, at the Palace of Westminster.

Now entering their second year, the British Citizen Awards were launched in January 2015 to recognise exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on society and recognise ‘everyday’ people whose achievements may otherwise be overlooked.

Mayoor has been fundraising for charity since the age of 13 and has been instrumental in raising more than £1.5 million for three charities - the OKAS Fund, which helps academically-gifted but financially disadvantaged students in Uganda; Polio Children, which works on four continents to support those affected by polio; and Little Drops Shravana, which is the only project of its kind providing an integrated free service for hearing impaired children in India. He is also involved in numerous other charities and projects, including the Milapfest Trust – the UK’s leading Indian arts development trust.

Mayoor, who was originally from Uganda, leads from the front, believing that an education is the best gift he can give. He began his charitable work after being inspired by his father, who had served the Ugandan government 30 years before the family was expelled in the 1970s. His father told him, ‘Son, I will give you something nobody can take away from you and one day you must give it to someone who needs it, but not charge for it. That something I will put between your ears.’

Armed with this philosophy, Mayoor has impacted positively on more than 2,000 children. He is a passionate advocate of ‘education at any cost’ and believes that self-sufficiency is the key for communities and projects. With this aim in mind, he relentlessly pursues fundraising and awareness programmes, undertaking presentations across his many networks, as well as at Lions clubs, schools, universities and temples.

Much of his work focusses upon children and adults with disabilities or from poor backgrounds in countries and communities where they would have traditionally not been accepted and would have been marginalised.

Speaking about his receiving the award, Mayoor said: “It was a complete shock when I found out that I would be receiving a British Citizen Award, I was speechless. I don’t do this work to be rewarded, I do this for the children and it is a big part of my life. However, it is nice to have been recognised, and I feel very proud.”

Fresh Meat - starring Jack Whitehall (B1 2001-06) - returns to Channel 4 this evening at 10pm.

'Kitchen slugs, bathroom blazes, bodies in lakes … as the anarchic campus comedy returns, its writers remember the wild (and not so wild) times that inspired the show.'

Click here to read a feature interview.

Orphee Productions, founded by Florence Keith-Roach (NC 2000-05), invites you to join their cast and team for a Gala Fundraising Performance of their second 5 star play, Eggs'.

Taking place as part of The Vaults Festival on Thursday 25th February, 6.30pm, with a drinks reception beforehand from 5.30pm.

Click here to view a trailer or click here for ticket details.

The spectacular reviews for MONSTERS by Emerald Fennell (NC 1998-2003) keep rolling in.

The novel was named by James Dawson in The Guardian as one of the Best Children's Books of 2015.

The Financial Times writes: "Any lingering echoes of the Famous Five rattling around Cornish coves are banished forever by this dark tale... a mash up of Carrie and Bluebeard with a touch of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, is smart, modern and fresh. This savage and ultimately bleak tale is not for the faint of heart."
Click here for more.

Theatre503 has appointed Andrew Shepherd (LI 1993-98) as executive director, replacing Jeremy Woodhouse.

Shepherd is the founder of theatre company ACS Random, which he set up in 2002 and which focuses on developing new writing. He will join the south London theatre when Woodhouse leaves in February to become associate producer for English Touring Theatre.

Shepherd, who is also an actor and writer, said he was "thrilled to be joining the venue, adding: "As a passionate advocate for new writing and supporting emerging talent, it’s incredibly exciting to be part of one of London's best venues for groundbreaking new work."

Shepherd will work with Theatre503's artistic director Paul Robinson, who described him as "perfect fit" for the role.

Hidden in a small leather suitcase in the family attic is where former Marlborough College student Harry Fox stored all his war memoirs but he never spoke of it nor was it discovered until after his death.

Now archivists Terry Rogers, Clare Russell and Gráinne Lenehan from Marlborough College have spent six months bringing the collection of his fascinating writings together to share Harry’s wartime experiences with the public.

Taken from the Gazette & Herald, Thursday 28th January. Click here for the full story.