News Submitted – November 2011

Many congratulations to Jonathan Smith (StB’98) on his recent engagement to Aoife Kilpatrick on the 21st October 2011.  The happy couple are planning their wedding for early 2012.

Our heartfelt congratulations to Felix Sainsbury-Martinez (C’09) who received, for the second year running, a Dean’s Commendation at Exeter University where he is studying Astro Physics, Quantum Physics and Maths.

Our congratulations to Neil Leach (G’76), who alongside Professors Behrokh Khoshnevis (Engineering), Anders Carlson (Architecture) and Madhu Thangavelu (Astronautics) from the University of Southern California (USC) have won a prestigious Nasa grant to explore the potential use of the robotic fabrication technology, Contour Crafting, for building structures on the moon. The grant, says a USC press release, “was one of only 30 awarded to over 700 applicants by the Nasa Innovation Advanced Concepts Program”.

News Submitted – October 2011

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of Peter Cole (C’92) on Saturday 22^nd October 2011, aged 37 years.  He leaves a widow, Helen, and a four year-old daughter, Olivia.  Peter had been ill with cancer for the past 18 months.  His funeral is to be held at 11.00am on Friday 4^th November 2011 at the Sacred Heart Church, Edge Hill, Wimbledon, London, SW19 4LU.  Peter kept in touch with many contemporaries from Worth, particularly through the Order of Malta Volunteers and their pilgrimages to Lourdes.

The 10/11 issue of The Blue Paper has been published and circulated to subscribed members of Worth Society.   Packed full of news from Worthians and about Worth Society events and activities – it is well worth a read.  If you haven’t received your copy, it could be that we don’t have your latest address or that you are not a fully subscribed member of the Society.  Please do get in touch with Olivia at :worthsociety@worth.org.uk if you’re interested in receiving a copy.

News Submitted – September 2011

Joan Edey, long time Medical Sister of Worth School, died last Thursday 22nd September 2011 aged 95 years.  Her funeral will take place at Worth Abbey on Friday 7^th October at 2.30pm and Worthians are most welcome to attend.

Congratulations to Jamie Dunster (B’85), Fraser Moore (G’95), Gordon Moore (G’85), Michael Gabriel (C’85), Johnny Greig (G’85), Charles McHugo (G’85) and Sean Taylor (C’85) who cycled from London to Paris starting on Thursday 22^nd September and finishing on Sunday 25^thSeptember 2011.  They were participating in the Momentum Challenge 2011 where 33 riders cycled to Paris on behalf of MOMENTUM.  Momentum is an organisation set up by a number of these Worthians to raise awareness of colon cancer and to raise funds for research projects into its treatment.  To make a donation and find out more do visit :www.bmycharity.com/momentum.

Over 100 Worthians joined Andrew Taylor at the Nordic Bar and Restaurant in London on the evening of Friday 16th September, to celebrate Andrew stepping down as House Master at Worth – after 12 years at the helm of St Bedes (from 1999 to 2001) and Gervase (from 2002 to 2011).  Drinking continued into the early hours of Saturday morning and everyone had a truly great evening.  Although Andrew will continue to be heavily involved in many other aspects of School life – we thought it was an appropriate time to celebrate this significant milestone with all those Worthians who have fallen under Andrew’s care between 1999 and 2011.

It is with great sadness that we inform Worthians of the death of Mr Matthew Boughton, Head of Drama at Worth School, on the evening of Thursday 15th September 2011 in the company of his family.  Matthew had been absent from school since January, during which time he was given every possible treatment and support to fight his illness.  The entire school attended a service of prayer and reflection on Friday 16th September 2011, conducted by members of the monastic community.  Details concerning his funeral arrangements have ben posted on the ‘Events’ page of this website.  We ask each of you to pray for the repose of Matthew’s soul; for his family, colleagues, friends, students and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Sunday 11th September 2011 was an exciting day for us here at Worth - not only did we welcome the ‘young’ and ‘older’ Worthian RFC teams to play the School’s 1st XV – we also welcomed the Worthian girls for their very first hockey match versus the School’s 1st XI!  The Worthian boys were just defeated by the School – 20-15 in a ferocious dual, while the Worthian girls came away on top - just beating the school team 3-2 in a hard fought victory on the School’s new, very impressive astro turf.   Everyone came together for team teas in the Pavilion after the matches had finished.  A huge thank you to Desmond Calnan (R’69) for orchestrating the Rugby, and to our new Girls’ Sporting Co-ordinator,Louisa McCarthy (StM’10), for doing the honours and fielding the Worthian girls’ hockey team.  We look forward to these annual fixtures sharing the same date in future years.

Charles Gerada (R’90) has sent us news that he has just taken over as Acting Chairman of the Downside Fisher (Worth) Youth Club.  Many of you will be familiar with the Youth Club which supports socially excluded children and young people from Bermondsey and surrounding areas (the Bermondsey Huts at Worth have a historic connection).  The Youth Club depends on the generosity of benefactors to keep operating and is a worthy recipient of Corporate Social Responsibility funding.  Charles would like to hear from any Worthians who might be interested in lending their support or putting him in touch with potential funders.  If you would like to find out more, then please do e-mail ccg@jgrlaw.co.uk.

After two years of planning, sheer determination and hard work, Charles Hooper (C’80) has launched Forest Garden Shovelstrode; a place for people to learn traditional woodland crafts and skills – such as green wood working, basketry, hurdle making and bee keeping – or take a spiritual retreat for the benefit of mind, body and soul.  They have two beautiful, fully equipped yurts available for individuals, couples or small families to book and enjoy a back-to-nature retreat in quiet secluded anicent woodland.  If you’d like to find out more, then do visit their website at : www.forestgarden.info or e-mail Charles at :info@forestgarden.info.

Darren Carrick, Director of Sport at Worth School is taking the 1^st and 2^nd XI football squads to Valencia for a pre-season tour at the beginning of the Christmas holiday break.  He was wondering if those Worthians who have an affinity to the round-ball game – and we know there are plenty of you out there following the huge success of the 2011 Worthians football match! – might be willing to sponsor equipment or clothing, for example – although any form of support would be most welcome.  Darren would be very happy to print sponsors names on kit.  If you’re interested, then please do get in direct contact with Darren at :dcarrick@worth.org.uk.

James Cockburn (former staff 1980-1990) has sent news that he is holding exhibitions of his work at The Red Gate Gallery, 209a Coldharbour Lane, London SW9 8RU on the 16th September 2011 from 6pm to 11pm; at The Pasmore Gallery at Harrow School in November; and other exhibitions in Singapore, Brisbane and Adelaide during November and December.  Any Worthians are more than welcome to check them out on his website: www.jamescockburn.co.  James has also published a 70-page full-colour book to accompany the exhibitions which can be downloaded free of charge.  Copies are also available to buy at the shows, or on-line at :http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/off-the-cuff/16807457

Daniel Garrigan (G’99) has sent news that he is organising a charity fundraising event in aid of the East Africa Children’s Crisis Appeal for UNICEF. The event is to be held from 6.00pm onwards on Saturday 22nd October at The Castle, Battersea High Street comprises a raffle, auction and musical entertainment.  Admission is free with donations accepted on the door.  Items up for auction include a bottle of House of Commons Whisky signed by Prime Minister, David Cameron; a Mercedes F1 photograph signed by Michael Schumacher and Russ Brawn.  For further details about prizes and lots and the opportunity to donate online, do visit : http://fundraise.unicef.org.uk/MyPage/Daniel-Garrigan-Battersea-Raffle–Auction.

Our thanks to Daniel Pring (R’03) for helping to organise our second Recent Leavers’ Networking Event which took place on Wednesday 7th September 2011 at The Samuel Pepys Bar & Restaurant, Stew Lane, Off Upper Thames Street, London EC4V 3PT.   Around 40 Worthians attended this informal business networking event which brought together Worthians who have recently left School, are currently at, are about to join, or have just left University, together with influential decision-makers across a wide range of professions who were there to offer advice and support.  We look forward to seeing more of you at next year’s gathering!

The newly refurbished Abbey Church opened its doors on Sunday 4th September to over 1000 people who came to visit for the first ever Worth Parish Open Day.  There were plenty of takers for the guided tours which went around the Abbey, through the monastery grounds and into part of the school.  Tea and coffee flowed throughout the afternoon from a seemingly tireless team of volunteers.  There was a lively Q&A session in the Abbey with a panel of Fr Luke, Fr James and Friends of Worth stalwart, Christina Fitzsimons.  Afterwards, there was standing room only at the guided meditation held in one of the side chapels and many people stayed for the Vespers service.

News Submitted – August 2011

Congratulations to Oliver Mulcahy (C’05) who passed out of Britannia Royal Naval College on Thursday 4th August 2011, as a Sub-Lieutenant Weapon Engineer.

Je Ahn (R’01), Luca Belpassi (G’01) Adrian Pring (R’01) and Jocelyn Seligman (StB’01) organised a great gathering of their year group for ‘The Class of 1996-2001′ 10-Year Reunion on Saturday 20th August 2011.  Around 30 of them met for a meal at Ciao Bella, 90 Lamb’s Conduit Street, London WC1N 3LZ and according to Jos, “behaved just the way he remembered them!”.

News Submitted – July 2011

Our heartfelt thanks to Ben Hamilton (B’91) who so valiantly took on the organisation of the Class of 1986-91 : 30-Year Reunion remotely from his base outside the UK.  He cajoled 31 Worthians and seven staff into attending an informal gathering at the Courthouse Modern Hotel just off Oxford Street, London W1 on Saturday 2nd July 2011 .  They all caught up over some canapes and a steady flow of beer and wine and, needless to say, had a great afternoon.  The die-hards continued late into the night and particularly special kudos goes to Richard Bates (G’91) for making it all the way over from Hong Kong, Vincent Tang (G’91) from Vancouver and Owen Lynch (B’91) from Texas.

News Submitted – June 2011

Oli Jacobs (F’10) has just sent news that he, along with James Cliffe (R’11), Nick Elvidge (C’11), Niamh Fogarty (StM’11) and Jack Udale (B’11) are doing a half marathon on the 25th September 2011.  They are raising money for the Matthew Elvidge Trust in aid of Nick’s cousin who sadly took his own life after a bout of depression.  If anyone out there would like to support them, then please do visit Oli Jacob’s fundrasing page at : www.olijacobs.co.uk.

News Submitted – May 2011

Congratulations to Mickey Morrissey (R’77) and his son, Hugo, who completed the Edinburgh Marathon on the 22^nd May 2011 in 3 hours 58 minutes and 3 hours 56 minutes respectively.  They got off to a fantastic start, completing the first half in 1:49 and 20 miles in 2:55 minutes – then they found themselves running the last six miles into the wind with gusts of 35-40mph along the coast road to the finish at Mussleborough.  It proved to be a real test of endurance.  They raised a magnificent amount of over £5000 for The Irish Guards Appeal and WellChild.

Our thanks to Simon Jones (StB’98) for fielding a Worthian Cricket team and our six Worthian tennis enthusiasts - Philip de Ayala (C’76), Ben Elwes (G’81), Crispin Hayhoe (StB’82), Neil Laughton (C’82), Christ McCourt (B’83) and Greg Pickard (StB’81) - who returned to School on Speech Day, Saturday 28th May 2011, to play the School teams.  Unfortunately, youth overcame the skill of our more senior cricket and tennis players.  But we look forward to battling it out again next year – and hopefully coming out on top!

Worth welcomes its first ‘father and son’ team on the Staff at Worth School with the appointment of Matthew Doggett (F’07) to the Mathematics Department.  Matthew is a graduate of the University of Cambridge and his father, Dr Brian Doggett is Head of Science.  Matthew will be given a heartfelt welcome when he joins the School in September 2011.

News Submitted – April 2011

Our heartfelt congratulations to Matt Scotland (C’08) who is currently in his second year at Loughborough University, where he entered ‘The Business and Finance Undergraduate of the Year Award’ (sponsored by Morgan Stanley) and ‘The Accounting, Consulting and Economics Undergraduate of the Year Award’ (sponsored by KPMG).  After very lengthy application processes, he made it through to the final 10 for both Awards and attended the Awards Ceremony at East Winter Garden at Canary Wharf on Friday 15th April.  Here he found out that he had won the Business and Finance Undergraduate of the Year Award – receiving a trophy and a 10-week internship with Morgan Stanley including a week all expenses paid trip to their New York Offices.  He is, understandably ”over the moon!”.

News Submitted – March 2011

A great afternoon was had by all involved in our third Worthians versus School Team Football Match which took place on Sunday 27th March.  Our sincere thanks to Andrew Taylor for all his help in orchestrating this Event, where we had enough players – a magnificent 48 in total – to field four separate teams!  The School Team played in a triangular tournament against the Older Worthians and the Younger Worthians teams; and both Worthian teams also played against the Staff team.  The School Team came out on top overall.  John Surtees and Abbot Kevin joined everyone for Match Tea in the Pit Stop Cafe and the Abbot kindly presented the Henry Surtees Memorial Trophy to the School Team Captain.

Worth Society’s annual St Benedict’s Day Mass took place on Thursday 24th March at Corpus Christi Church, Maiden Lane in Covent Garden.  The service, presided by Abbot Kevin, was attended by around 40 Worthians who retired for drinks in the Mask Bar at the Strand Palace Hotel afterwards.

Alex Stewart-Clark (R’79) and a number of Worthians are in the thick of organising a Citywide Passion of Christ play which will take place in Brighton on Friday 22nd April 2011.  They are looking for volunteers to help bring it all together so, if you happen to be an actor, a set designer, a brilliant organiser, have a gift for marketing or a head for numbers, then please do get in touch on 0800 740 8254.  For more information, visit the website at : http://passionofchrist.co.uk.

Tom McMurray (B’08) returned to Worth to speak to Year 12 pupils about his Gap Year experience which included working with disadvantaged people in Africa.  He spoke eloquently of the excitement and the sheer joy of his Gap year experience and left the audience excited about the many opportunities available to them if they are willing to stretch themselves.  Tom successfully applied for a Worth Society Global Action Award before he left Worth in 2008, and received funding for the charitable work he undertook in Africa.

Our congratulations to Worthian Tom Mitchell (F’07) who skippered his country for the first time when England Students played Rugby against Portugal in Lisbon on Saturday 5th March.  It was a proud moment for the 21 year-old who is in his final year studying English and Philosophy at Bristol University.  He is hoping for a second chance to captain the team when England faces France in Versailles at the end of the month.

News Submitted – February 2011

Competition is becoming increasingly fierce for a place at the fabled City Lunch which was held for the third consecutive year at The Bleeding Heart Restaurant just off Hatton Garden on Thursday 17th February.  40 Worthians from a wide range of year groups and spanning five decades sat down to an excellent three course meal in the Terrace Room, using the opportunity to network and to catch up with old friends.

News Submitted – January 2011

Our grateful thanks to Eddie Robinson (B’89) and Ben Babington (G’96)who organised Worth Society’s third “Call My Bluff” Wine tasting evening which was held at The Prince Albert in Battersea on Thursday 27th January.  This popular event was attended by 33 Worthians includingOwen Lean (C’01) who entertained everyone with his ‘street magic’.  In true Worth style, everyone entered wholeheartedly into the spirit of the evening and not much could be remembered by the end!

Peter Gilbert (R’68) is delighted to inform Worthians that his new book, “Spirituality and Mental Health”, will be published by Pavilion in early March.  It is an edited work, with 23 chapters by a range of experienced and inspirational writers.  The book considers perspectives from Childhood to Older Age and to our ultimate challenge of death.  The work also tackles challenging issues around culture and sexuality; and assists with guidance on mindfullness, recovery and reflective practice. There are specific chapters on education, and bringing the issues forward with the workforce in vital services.

Congratulations to Anthony Sheperd (B’75) who received an MVO in the New Year’s Honours List for his work as head of the Outward Bound Centre in Loch Eil, Inverness-shire.

Ambrose Rigby, a former pupil and Counsellor at the school, died during the holiday period.  Please pray for the repose of Ambrose’s soul.

News Submitted – December 2010

We are very excited that the first Worth Society Event for 2011 will be the first Worthian all-girls Reunion.  Jessica Coffin (StM’10) is helping to co-ordinate a gathering of St Mary’s 2010 Leavers’ on Friday 7th January at Worth School, where attendees will enjoy a three-course meal in the Cowdray Room followed by coffee in St Mary’s.

We are very sad to report the death of Giles Gleadell who was educated at Worth Abbey and Downside.  He was 68 and died peacefully at his home in Winsham, near Chard, from bone cancer on the 11th December 2010.  May he rest in peace.

News Submitted – November 2010

Congratulations to Ben Hancock (G’90) and Linda on the birth of Daphne Charlotte Poppy, born on the 14th November 2010.

Many congratulations to Richard Hook (B’92) and Di on the safe arrival of their first son, Elliot James Hook who was born at 6.09 pm on Tuesday 23rd November 2010 weighing in at 7 pounds 12oz.  All safely at home and doing well – if a little tired!

Our thanks to Ken Ross (G’65) for organising the Autumn Meeting for the Worth Salver on  Sunday 21^st November 2010 held at the Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club, Forest Row, East Sussex, RH18 5LR.  A good cohort of Worthians and past Staff members – James Blake, Phillip Davey, Peter Gottelier, Nicholas Barnett, Hugh Bett, Patrick Davey, James Ambrose, Paul Moran, Dominic Pasqua, Glenn Robertson, Matthew Wood, Mike Margrett and Greg Pickard – were joined by Abbot Kevin for an excellent day’s Golf.

James Cockburn, who was Head of Art at Worth School from 1980 to 1990, has been in touch about the exhibition of his pottery he is holding at the Dulwich Picture Gallery, Gallery Road, Dulwich SE21 7AD on Thursday 18th November 2010 from 6.00pm to 8.00pm.  Worthians are most welcome to attend.

Our thanks to Simon Gabriel (C’90) for organising the 20-year gathering of his peer group from the Class of 1985-90.  26 gathered in the Cowdray Room at Worth School on Saturday 6th November for a three-course sit-down lunch including Fr Luke, Fr James, Jeremy Dowling, Paul Miller and Keith Owers -and guest appearances from Abbot Kevin and Fr Charles.  They all had a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon concluding with a tour of the School and left in awe of “all the changes made since their days at Worth!”

News Submitted – September 2010

Worth Society hosted its first business networking event for recent School and University Leavers on Wednesday 22^nd September 2010 at The Samuel Pepys Bar & Restaurant, Stew Lane, Off Upper Thames Street, London EC4V 3PT to great acclaim.  Howard Brookman (G’93) wrote : “Just a quick note to extend my thanks to those involved in the organisation of the Worthians City Networking Event earlier this week.  It was an enjoyable evening and a great opportunity to be back in contact with some old friends and to meet some new faces.  It’s an event that I hope will be repeated in the future.”

Our thanks to Charles Hooper (C’80) for all his sterling efforts in organising and getting together 47 of his peer group to attend the Class of 1975-80 30-Year Reunion which was held on Friday 17th September 2010 at the Dining Room, Soho 21, 21 Old Compton Street, London W1.  They were joined by Abbot Kevin, Fr Stephen and Keith Owers and had a great evening catching up on ‘old times’.

More than 750 well-wishers, including a representative of the Papal Nuncio, a Cardinal, Abbots of other monasteries, Bishop John Hind of Chichester and dozens of clergy, flocked to Worth Abbey on Saturday 11th September to witness Dom Kevin Taggart’s formal installation as the monastery’s fifth Abbot.  Abbot Kevin, 79, was elected by the 25-strong Worth monastic community on the 2nd June 2010.  During the Blessing, Abbot Kevin made solemn promises to lead the Monastic Community in their lives of prayer and work and to watch over them as their father. He joked to the packed congregation, “I am a bit bemused at my time of life to be elected as Abbot.”

Many congratulations to Toby Rumford (R’95) on his engagement to Floriane Heutsch in August 2010.

News Submitted – August 2010

Our thanks to Jamie Bruce (R’04) for co-ordinating a team of 17 Worthians to take part in the Conk-Cunis National Under 21 RFC Festival on Monday 30th August.  The Worthians lost in the main competition to Dulwich (as they did last year) but successfully reached the quarter final of the Plate.

Many congratulations to Felix Sainsbury-Martinez (C’09) who has been awarded a Dean’s Commendation after an excellent first year reading Natural Sciences at Exeter University.

News Submitted – July 2010

Many congratulations to Patrick Doyle (B’92) and his wife, Sarah, on the birth of Daniel.  He weighed in at a healthy 7lb 15oz boy and joins older sister Evie.

Our heartfelt congratulations to Tim Davies (C’10) and William Brenninkmeyer (StB’10) who successfully summited Mont Blanc the week after leaving Worth School.  It took them 6 hours to reach the summit from the Aiguille du Midi and then 4 hours 15 minutes to return back down to the same spot.They were partly sponsored by Worth Society and climbed in support of LUPUS UK and The Alzheimer’s Society.

News Submitted – June 2010

Worth Society has launched the Worthians Group on LinkedIn as a business networking vehicle for members of the Worthian community.  Over 500 Worthians have already joined this network and are taking advantage of the facility.  If you are not part of the Worthians Group and would like to apply to join, then please e-mail Olivia Henley atworthsociety@worth.org.uk.

Matthew Burnford (StB’77) is undertaking a 1,000 mile cycle ride through France in August 2010 to raise money for the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Unit at King’s College, London.  Matthew is raising the money in memory of Goochy Watts whose husband, Andrew, once flew an Army helicopter to Worth and took Father Stephen up for a spin!  The link to the charity is :https://breakthrough.tributefunds.com/GoochyWatts and Matthew would be very grateful for support from any Worthian who would like to help him in his quest to raise £5,000 for this worthy cause

Many congratulations to Michael Spencer (B’72), founder and CEO of ICAP, who has been awarded Ernst and Young’s “Global Entrepreneur of the Year” 2010 award.  To read more visit :http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/banksandfinance.html

Congratulations to our Worthian golfers who were yet again victorious in winning the Russell Bowl (the Catholic public schools golfing trophy) for the second successive year.  The event was held at Woking on Sunday 6th June 2010 – a 36 holes scratch foursomes.  The team comprised:  Philip (F’02) and Patrick Davey (F’01), Peter Gottelier (R’70),  Simon Jones (StB’98), Will Kelly (F’02) and Ken Ross (G’65) – so they represented a good span across the Worthian age rankings!

Following an Abbatical Election on Wednesday 2nd June, Fr Kevin Taggart has been elected Abbot of Worth with immediate effect.  Click here to read more

News Submitted – May 2010

Many congratulations to Alex Hiam (C’07) who has just finished at Bristol University and has been offered a place to study Music at New College Oxford.

News Submitted – April 2010

Congratulations to Gavin Chase (C’01) who has just attained teacher status via a PGCE and is starting a post from September 2010 at The Warwick School in Redhill as History and RS teacher.

Many congratulations to Mark Collini (StB’89) and Alexandra Finch on their engagement on the 28^th March 2010.

News Submitted – March 2010

Gino Carminati, Headmaster at Worth School, is delighted to announce that Worthian, Patrick Doyle (B’92) has been appointed as Deputy Head Pastoral with effect from the 1^st September 2010.

Raphael Coman (B’95) would like to inform Worthians that he has opened an accounting business in South London called Coman & Co.  Please do feel to contact him at Coman & Co on Tel : 020 8653 4454 or e-mail : enquiries@comanandco.co.uk for further information.

This summer Fraser Moyle (R’08), along with other students from York, will be trekking his way up Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania in aid of Childreach International, the innovative children’s charity that works with local communities in some of the world’s poorest regions, helping them give their children a brighter future.  If you would like to help him in his quest to raise £3,000, then please do visit :http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/FraserMoyle where you can donate on-line.

Daniel Grace (F’05) and two of his friends who are studying Medicine at King’s College London with him, have recorded the Kings for Haiti Album in order to raise money for the DEC following the devastating earthquake that occurred in Haiti.   As students they were wondering what they could do to help make a difference, and this record is the end result.  There are two songs, a cover of “Let it Be” by the Beatles and an original song called “The Sun Will Rise Again.” Please do visit :http://www.kingsforhaiti.co.uk/ where you can buy their music – all profits will go directly to the DEC.  The album is available from Amazon.co.uk’s mp3 store or itunes.

News Submitted – February 2010

You may have read about Andy Carroll’s (R’81) cycling exploits in the 08/09 issue of The Blue Paper where he cycled across the Alps for charity.  Well, on the 23rd June 2010 he is going to embark on a further cycle challenge over the Alps with ‘The Fireflies’ in order to raise money for Leuka – the charity that raises money for Leukaemia Research at the Catherine Lewis Centre at The Hammersmith Hospital.  He is covering his own expenses and is looking to raise a minimum of £2,000 which will go directly to the hospital.  If you would like to support him, than please do visit his JustGiving page at : http://www.justgiving.com/TenaciousFox

Oliver (S’98) and Sam Barnett (C’97) will be undertaking the Marathon des Sables in April 2010.  Described as the toughest foot race on earth, it comprises the equivalent of 6 marathons (150 miles) in 7 days across the Sahara Desert – one of the stages is a 50-mile effort.  If the heat (averaging 40 degrees centigrade) and the distance are not sufficient tests of their resolve, they will be carrying all their kit (sleeping bag, food, venom pump!) other than water (which is strictly rationed to 9 litres a day) for the duration.  If you have the time, do read Ben Fogle’s account of the event at : http://www.telegraph.co.uk/arts/main.jhtml?xml=/arts/2004/04/26/ft26.xml   The brothers are raising money for an amazing charity called Take Heart India, which is focused on practical education projects in India.  Take Heart’s belief is in empowering people via education, thereby allowing them to achieve a sustainable way of life through their own efforts as opposed to living off handouts.  Because the charity doesn’t employ a single person, 100% of the proceeds go to the education projects, which will also be the case with Oliver and Sam’s fundraising.  Do visit the charity’s website at :http://www.takeheartindia.org/main.htm and consider supporting Oliver and Sam in their fundraising efforts by visiting their JustGiving page at :http://www.justgiving.com/Ollie-and-Sam-Barnett.

Do please consider supporting Giles Heather (F’03) in his fundraising efforts for The Lymphoma Association – a charity very close to his heart.  He will be running with Mark Lane (F’03) in both the Brighton and London Marathons in April 2010 for this very worthwhile cause. To sponsor Giles, please visit his Just Giving page at :http://www.justgiving.com/Giles-Heather-marathons.

Congratulations to Alistair Myles (G’99) who is engaged to Zia Dottridge (an old Mayfield girl).  The happy couple, who are pictured above, got engaged on the 15^th January 2010 and their wedding is planned for the 28^th May 2011.

News Submitted – January 2010

Congratulations to Julian Gairdner (StB’89) and Melissa who have had a son, Frederick (Freddie) James Temple, born on the 28th December 2009 – a brother, and someone to wrestle, for Olly.

We have just heard that Paul Leahu (B’71) died recently.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and two children who live in Madrid where Paul lived for the past 25 years.

Congratulations to Andrew Micallef-Eynaud (B’96) and Katia who had a son, William, born on 20^th December 2009 in Australia, where they moved in February 2009.  Andrew is pictured above with baby William.

Congratulations to Anthony Haggar (G’93) who is marrying Maria Luz Porcella on Sunday 14^th February 2010 in the Dominican Republic - Maria’s home.

News from Alan Mitchell, Director of Pastoral Care here at Worth – his son, Tom Mitchell (F’07), has been selected for the English Universities Rugby Squad and is going out to Lisbon, Portugal with them on the 27th January 2010.  Tom is currently in his second year at Bristol University studying English and Philosophy.

News Submitted – December 2009

Worthian, Robert Bathurst (R’75) - well known to television and theatre audiences with credits including Cold Feet, Hornblower and My Dad’s the Prime Minister - will be touring in the New Year with Noel Coward’s classic comedy ‘Present Laughter’.  You can see ‘Present Laughter’ at the Theatre Royal Brighton from Monday 25^th - Saturday 30^th January 2010, with Robert starring as the successful and self-obsessed actor, Garry Essendine.  If you are interested in going to see him in this production, then do please visit the following link for further details and to purchase tickets :

http://www.ambassadortickets.com/1471/664/Brighton/Theatre-Royal-Brighton/Present-Laughter

News Submitted – November 2009

Many congratulations to Nick Mifsud (C’87) and Sophie on the birth of Edward Robert who was born on 6^th November 2009, weighing in at 7 lb 13 oz – a brother for Thomas, who is slightly confused and apprehensive about his new big brother role but is gradually getting used to it!

News Submitted – September 2009

Congratulations to all Worthians who took part in the Cronk-Cunis Under 21s Rugby Tournament which took place on Bank Holiday Monday 31st August 2009.  The boys did exceptionally well with a turn-out of more than 24 – and on time!  They beat Gordonstoun 5-0 in the first round, then Tonbridge 6-5 (who had been undefeated for their last 30 school matches) and then lost in the Quarter Finals to Dulwich.  Dulwich were extremely strong and were the only team to trouble the eventual Tournament winners – St Benedicts Ealing, taking them to extra time in the Semi Finals.

News Submitted – August 2009

Giles Maskell (G’72) has been appointed as the new Director of Cancer Services at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust.  The announcement was made in June 2009.  He is a consultant radiologist based at Treliske and West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance and will hold the role for the next 18 months.

Julian Tang (G’93) and family (pictured above) are delighted to announce the birth of Gabriella Wei Tze Tang, 6lb 2oz, born on the evening of 19th August 2009 at Women’s Hospital Vancouver.  Mother and baby are doing very well and the children are thrilled with their brand new baby sister!

Martyn Powys-Lybbe has written a biography on his late wife, Anne Powys-Lybbe for the interest of her family and friends and all those who remember her during her time here at Worth School.  The biography can be viewed at http://amir.webhop.net/anne/AnneBiogAPL.doc

The Blue Paper 08/09 Issue Now Available
The 08/09 issue of The Blue Paper is available from the Worth Society office and was despatched to all members in July 2009. If you haven’t received your copy, it could be that your membership to Worth Society has lapsed so, if you’re interested in receiving a copy, don’t hesitate to contact Olivia Henley on admin@worthsociety.org.uk to find out more.

Many congratulations to James Baybutt (StB’99) who married Elizabeth Skerrett on Saturday 22nd August 2009 at Our Lady & St Thomas Cathedral in Northampton.  His best man was Jules (Julian) Staveley (stB’99) and his ushers included his two brothers, Edward (StB’97) and Charles Baybutt (StB’00), and Matthew Grinsted  (StB’99).

Congratulations to Tom Carter (C’99) who married Hannah Sollars in July 2009.

Congratulations to Richard Hook (B’92) who married Diane Hayne in July 2009.

You will be saddened to hear of the sudden death of Dr Michael Robinson, who many of you will remember as Head of Physics and Careers Advisor during the many years he taught at Worth School during the late 60s, 70s and 80s.  He died on Sunday 2nd August 2009.   May he rest in peace.  “A Celebration of the Living Memory of Mike Robinson” will be held on Wednesday 26^th August 2009 at St. Paul’s Church, Honiton, Devon at 2.00 pm followed by refreshments in the Mackarness Hall which is adjacent to the Church.  Everyone is welcome.  This follows a private cremation, for family only, which is to be held earlier on the same day.  Any enquiries should be made directly with the undertakers – Shoobridge on 01404 41424.  Donations are invited in Mike’s memory to Survival International, Amnesty International or the Gardeners’ Benevolent Society.

News Submitted – July 2009

We are deeply saddened to report the death of Henry Surtees (’09) in a Formula 2 race at Brands Hatch on Sunday 19th July.  Henry, who had just completed A Levels in Economics, ICT and Biology, was a keen sportsman and was passionate about motor racing. He was a popular and positive member of the Sixth Form who succeeded in combining his studies with a busy racing schedule.  He was just beginning his gap year prior to studying Management at University.  He will be greatly missed by the entire Worth community.  We send our condolences to his family and pray for the repose of his soul.  For those wishing to contact the school regarding Henry, please contact Director of Studies, Mrs Anne Lynch, tel: 01342 710208, email: alynch@worth.org.uk

News Submitted – June 2009

Many congratulations to Darren Jones (StB’04) who got a First at Kent University – a Bachelor of Business Administration Honours.  This was a four year course with one year spent working with Siemens in Dubai.   He is currently celebrating with brother, Craig and girlfriends in Cornwall, and has yet to decide his future!

We are absolutely delighted to report report that the Worthians Golfing Team has succeeded in winning the Russell Bowl Trophy for the second time!  The scores were Ampleforth 78, Downside 79, Stonyhurst 58, and Worth 76 in the morning.  After a ‘severe talking to’, the scores in the afternoon were Ampleforth 80, Downside 80, Stonyhurst 53 and Worth 91.  To find out more detail and individual scores, please visit the golf section of this website

Many congratulations to Murray Shanks (R’77) who has been appointed as a Circuit Judge for the South East with effect from the 17th June 2009.

We have just heard about the death of Johnny Hoyle (C’65) who died peacefully after a long illness on Monday 1st June 2009, aged 61 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.  May he rest in peace.

News Submitted – May 2009

Congratulations to Mel Carson (B’90) who is engaged to Ashley Seffernick.  They are pictured (above) in front of Haytor – the spot where Mel proposed – on Dartmoor in Devon and are getting married in Seattle

News Submitted – April 2009

Simon Gordon (StB’74) has completed work on the outside terrace area of his bar, Gordon’s Wine Bar.  It now has additional seating for 80 people under awnings with heaters.  You can find Gordon’s Wine Bar just off Villiers Street, London WC2.  Do visit www.gordonswinebar.com for more information or even better, just drop in for a drink!

Charles Grieve (StB’70) has been out of touch for a long time and recently sent us an update on what he has been up to.  He is living in Hong Kong and summer finds him and his family visiting their house in Turkey, near Bodrum.  Charles would be delighted to see Worthians either in Hong Kong or Turkey, and he would be very happy to make their house in Turkey available to Worthians as it is empty for much of the year.   If you are interested in finding out more, you can make contact with him via Olivia Henley at admin@worthsociety.org.uk.

Congratulations to Ben Hancock (G’90) who is engaged to Linda Henrysson.  They are getting married in November 2009.

News Submitted – March 2009

Rob Carson (G’94) is raising money again for the OMV holiday camp for disabled children that he established in Ireland.  To raise additional cash he is going to climb Croagh Patrick with PJ Bailey (R’95) three times in one day (holy mountain, Catholic charity, etc!).  If you are interested in supporting Rob, you can find his fundraising page atwww.justgiving.com/holidaycamp.

News Submitted – February 2009

Martin Powys Lybbe, who taught at Worth School for many years, has asked that we inform you of the very sad news of the death of his wife, Anne.  She died on Monday 9^th February 2009.  Many of you will remember her as a vital figure in your lives during your time here at Worth School.  Anne’s funeral took place at 10.30am on Tuesday 17th February 2009 at St Pauls Church, Hazelgrove Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 3PQ.  We ask you to remember Anne and her family in your thoughts and prayers.  May she rest in peace.

Congratulations to Fr Martin McGee who has recently published his book “Christian Martyrs for a Muslim People” which tells the inspiring story of the nineteen Algerian martyrs – priests, sisters and Bishop Claverie of Oran – who were assassinated by Muslim fundamentalists between 1994-1996.  The story of the Algerian martyrs has a direct link with Worth as Fr John MacWilliam (StB’66), a Worthian and White Father, was sent to re-open the White Fathers’ house in Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria following the assassination of the four White Fathers who had been resident there.  For copies of the book and further information please e-mail Fr Martin at mmcgee@worth.org.uk

News Submitted – November 2009

Congratulations to Richard Lynton-Jones (StB’97) who is engaged to Tania Letts and is now the proud dad of a little boy, Jacob Dylan who was born on the 15th May 2008.  He is pictured above with Tania and Jacob.

News Submitted – October 2008

Congratulations to Paddy Lynch (C’92) who married Geraldine Coleman on Saturday 11th October 2008 in Foxford County Mayo.  They met in Lourdes on the Order of Malta Volunteers pilgrimage.  Paddy’s brother, James (StB’94) was best man and Fr Luke preached at the wedding.  Of the seven Worthians present, three were married and all had met their wives in Lourdes (also on the Order of Malta Volunteers pilgrimage).  They were Helen and Pete Cole (C’92), Caroline and Will Loden (C’93), Sophie and Ben Nickell (B’94).  The happy couple are pictured above with the Worthian contingent who attended their wedding.

The date for our first Worthians Football Match has been finalised!  It will take place on Sunday 4th January 2009, here at Worth School, and will be co-ordinated by Andrew Taylor.  If you’d like to find out more, then please go to  Worthians Football , or e-mail Olivia Henley atadmin@worthsociety.org.uk

News Submitted – September 2008

Around 150 people attended the funeral of Ambrose Bristow on the 24th September 2008 at Worth Abbey.  Fr Kevin presided and preached and Frs Stephen, Bede, Charles, Martin and Philip concelebrated.  Humphrey Berridge composed and read the Bidding Prayers and Mike Robinson did an excellent eulogy after Communion.  The internment was at Turners Hill Church where Ambrose is buried close to Russell.  Past Worth School staff members who attended included Fred and Anne Belcher, Humphrey Berridge, Ian Bonner, Norma Cheshire, John Denman, Evonne Gubbin, Pat and Frank Kelley, Eileen and Jim Knight, Keith and Gilly Owers, Mike Robinson, Philip Robinson, David Smith, Roger Stokes and Guy Teasdale.  Worthians included Matthew Bullen(B’97), Dominic Gordon (StB’83), Jeremy Jenkins (G’84) and Marc Wiehe (R’88).  The Hamshaw-Thomas parents came up from Dorset and Matthew Bullen’s parents were also there.

Ambrose Bristow died on Saturday 13th September 2008 after a long struggle against cancer.   Some of your will remember him as a master here at Worth.   His funeral took place at 2pm on Wednesday 24th September at Worth Abbey and many Worthians attended.  We ask you to remember Ambrose and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

News Submitted – August 2008

Anne Powys-Lybbe Your thoughts and prayers for Anne – wife of Martin Powys-Lybbe who taught at the school for many years – would be most opportune at this time.  Anne has been in hospital and is now convalescing after a complicated condition.  Many Worthians will remember her as a vital figure in their lives during their time here at Worth.

Congratulations to John Mocatta (B’80) who is engaged to Nichola Wood.  They will be getting married in December.

Congratulations to Ben Hancock (G’90) who is engaged to Linda.  They are getting married in November.

Congratulations to Andrew Bayles (B’98) who is engaged to Maeve Mulcahy.  They are getting married in June 2009 in Ireland.

News Submitted – July 2008

Angus Husband (R’68) died on the 29th June 2008, aged 57.  We ask you to remember Angus and his family in your prayers.

James McAdam (StB’05) has just graduated from Birmingham University with a 2:1 in Economics and is due to start at KPMG Birmingham in September 2008.

Ian George (C’81) and Jennifer are delighted to announce the arrival of a baby girl, Aimee Mendes on the 22^nd April 2008. Both mother and baby are doing fine.

News Submitted – June 2008

Neil Laughton (C’82) and Caroline are delighted to announce the arrival of Scarlett, a beautiful sister for Oscar, on Monday 23rd June, weighing in at a bit over 7lbs with dark brown hair and a healthy set of lungs! Mother and daughter are settling well into their new country life.

Tori and Christopher Martin (R’85) are delighted to announce the arrival of twin girls – Isobel and Stella – on 31^st May 2008

Countdown to the Girls’ Arrival - Three important benchmarks have been reached in the path towards the introduction of girls to Worth School on Tuesday 2nd September 2008.

Worth ’75 : A Celebration of Worth’s Past, Present and Future - The 28th September 2008 marks the start of a full year of celebrations in the diverse and colourful history of Worth School.

News Submitted – May 2008

James Pontifex (C’63) has a cottage and studio flat to let in the Buda Hills, Budapest, Hungary.  Worthians are guaranteed both a warm welcome and friendly advice on exploring this fascinating city and country.  Please feel free to visit the website for full details :http://www.orchardsviews.com/ or e-mail info@pontifex.hu.

Fra’ Andrew Bertie’s UK Memorial Service - was held at the Brompton Oratory, Brompton Road, London SW7 on Tuesday 22nd April.  Go to the Events Archive section to read more about the Service and to view the Obituary written by Father Stephen Ortiger

News Submitted – April 2008

St Benedict’s Day Mass - was celebrated by Father Kevin on Thursday 10th April at Corpus Christi, Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7NB.  Go to the Events Archive section to see a list of people who attended and photographs from post-Mass drinks.

News Submitted – March 2008

WOBS City Lunch - was held on Thursday 28th February 2008 at Bow Wine Vault, 10 Bow churchyard, London EC4M 9DQ.  Go to the Events Archive section to read a Review, see the list of Attendees and view photographs from the Event.

News Submitted – February 2008

Fra Andrew Bertie RIP - you will be saddened to hear of the passing away of Fra Andrew Bertie, who some of you will remember as a teacher of Modern Languages and Assistant Housemaster of Gervase at Worth School.  He died on Thursday 7th February 2008.  May he rest in peace.  His UK Memorial Service was held on Tuesday 22nd April 2008 at Brompton Oratory, Brompton Road, London SW7 1EX.  See the Events Archive section for further information.

Congratulations to Julian Gairdner (StB’89) who is engaged to Melissa Fuentes. The wedding is scheduled for July 2008.

Congratulations to Jessica and Carrado Di Mascio (R’96) on the birth of Isabella Florence who was born on Saturday 12th January 2008 weighing 6lb 4.5oz.  Carrado is pictured with Isabella below :

Congratulations to Christopher Lamb (R’01)  who married Isabel on 12th January 2008 at Westminster Cathedral.  There was a large Worth contingent present on the day – Abbott Christopher officiated and Michael Oakley attended with the Worth Abbey singers.

News Submitted – January 2008

Congratulations to William Pollen (StB’94) who married Jennifer Kyte on 15th December 2007 in Hale Barns Chapel, Cheshire.

If you are interested in news pre-dating January 2008, then please do contact Olivia Henley at worthsociety@worth.org.uk.