Mount House School 9 9 9 -July 2000

Mount House School, Tavistock September 1999-July 2000

Fanfare

1

Fanfare 1999-2000

View from the Study

The class o f 2000 has seen in the new millennium in style. All the 6th Form leavers passed safely to their new schools which fell slightly short o f an A-Z but still ranged from Ampleforth to Winchester.Not only did they pass, but a record twenty scholarships or exhibitions were achieved.

On the material front, the new girls’ boarding accommodation is nearing completion (pictured, below right)', the successful music school appeal will allow that building to be well underway this year and the lake is being dredged during the summer holidays enabling that wonderful facility to return to its former glory.

These improvements quite rightly suggest that boarding is flourishing, music is stronger than ever and our beautiful grounds allow almost every form of country pursuits and adventure activities to thrive. If there has been one disappointing element this year, it has been the weather, but that is out o f our control.

So what will the leavers o f 2000 remember? New buildings and new facilities - yes. Improvements in standards both in the classroom and on the playing fields - yes again. A wonderful environment in which to grow and develop- yes, we are very fortunate. However, what I hope that each leaver will have begun to learn is far beyond academic and sporting achievement. I hope that they have learnt to be independent and yet to live together with others; to learn the ideal o f service and the responsibility o f

Jonathan Trafford, D.L.

Jonathan Trafford retired as a Governor in July this year. He was one of the original Governors when Mount House was incorporated, by Tony Wortham, to be a charitable trust in 1975 under the Chairmanship of the Hon. F.F. Fisher. Ten years later, folldwing the untimely death o f Frank Fisher, Jonathan Trafford succeeded him as Chairman and went on to complete 25 years as a Governor, of which nearly 14 were in the role o f Chairman.

There were, o f course, many other more important calls on his time and energies, but he was incapable o f doing any job half-heartedly. Even as Senior Partner o f one o f the most prestigious groups o f solicitors, director o f several companies and trustee o f other trusts, Mount House and its affairs were his constant concern. He was a fine Chairman- clear, concise, cautious and yet strong - but more than that he was a man of vision and he knew what a, school should be seeking to achieve. His advice to the Governors and to the Headmaster was always wise and invariably based on a full mastery of the subject and a clear and concise analysis o f the problem. For those who worked under him as I did, his strength and wisdom were a constant source of support.

Jonathan Trafford guided Mount House from its early days as a Trust through the difficult times faced by every school to a position o f strength. He masterminded many of the splendid facilities we are able to enjoy today and will enjoy in the near future. On his visits

authority; to develop self-control and self- discipline; to appreciate the balance between freedom and responsibility; to pursue interests and to acquire new ones. Most o f all I hope that they will be aware o f the enormous possibilities o f life, and to

develop to the full the talents which they possess whilst holding on to the old- fashioned virtues, which still matter so much in this fast-changing world.

Charles Price

Charles Price

to Chapel, to meetings or to other occasions, he would seek out people behind the scenes - the children, the administrators, the domestic helpers as well as those nearer the front o f the stage - he wanted to meet them and to encourage them and to thank them.

Jonathan Trafford served Mount House as parent, friend, Governor and Chairman. It was appropriate that my final official meeting with him should be on board his beloved yacht ‘M utineer’ flying the Royal Cruising Club burgee and fitting out for a cruise to the Northern Isles. All o f us at Mount House wish him and Barbara ‘bon voyage’ in their retirement and thank them both for all they have done for this school.

Fanfare 1999-2000

Governing Body and Staff

" D

0O

" O

(D

GovernorsP.J.D.Hodgson, CBE, FCA (Chairman)G.D.Adam, FRICS T.D.Denner, MADr. J.Evans, MA, FRCS(Ed)Plast„ FRCSA.H.Monro, MA Mrs.S.J.MumfordG.S.Sayers, BScP.G.F.Seldon, MIMech.E, C Eng.R.I.Smyth, MA C.A.Stuart-Clark, MA M.G.Varcoe, FCAR.P.Wright, Dip. Inst. Du Pantheon Paris

Academic S ta ffC.D.Price, BA, IAPS Dip.J.Symons, B.Ed.M.J.Bassett, B.Ed.

Headmaster Deputy Headmaster & Head o f History

Director o f Studies & Head o f Mathematics

G.R.Allen, Cert.Ed.B.Arm field, FTCL, GBSM(Hon).,

FLCM, ARCM, PGCEJ.H.Banyard, BA, Cert.Ed.L. Barnard, BA(Ed)F.Bush, BA, PGCEG.R.G.Canning, BA, PGCE Mrs. M.E.Goldberg, B.Ed P.R.Hamilton-Leggett, BSc., IAPS Dip. Miss J.Kibblewhite, BA, PGCEMrs. C.E.Morse, BA, PGCE R.J.Morse, B.Ed.Miss K.M.Rhodes, BSc., PGCE P.Stephens, B.Ed.Mrs.Y.P.Symons, B.Ed., Dip.Ed.(SEN)H.J.C.Walkington, BA, U.Ga.Mrs. R.L.Wamer, BA (QTS)G.Whaley, Cert.Ed., Dip.Ed.Miss L.M.G.Young, B.Ed.

C.C.M.Cunningham J.R.Hudson W.J.O.Seldon

Mrs.E.M.Morgan, BA, PGCE Miss E.J.Came, B.Tec.Mrs. P.Chespy, B.Ed.Miss J.A.Edmonds, NVQ3 Mrs.N.A.M.Gabb, Cert.Ed. Mrs.A.Y.MaeDougall, NNEB Mrs. E.A.Morgan, NVQ3 Miss M.Pole, B.Ed.

Head o f Geography Director o f Music

French & Head o f Religious Studies Head o f IT & General Subjects

ArtHead o f English Junior Subjects

Head o f Science Head o f Classics

Head o f Art Head o f PE & General Subjects

Junior Subjects & Science General Subjects

English Head o f French Junior Subjects

Head o f Design & Technology Junior Subjects

Head o f Pre-prep.Nursery

Pre-prep. Year 1 Reception

Pre-prep. Year 2 Nursery

Pre-prep. Year 1 Reception

Donations to CharityTavistock Parish Church Jeans for Genes The Wheels Fund British Legion Children in Need Hopes for Homes MencapWooden Spoon Society Devon Air Ambulance Hope and Homes for Children West Devon Victim Support Save the Children The Spirometer Buskaid C.L.I.C.C.L.I.C. (sponsored walk)

£100.44 £65.63 £45.19

£126.24 £94.52 £42.60.

£509.55 £77.96 £73.98 '

£114.63 £70.30

£159.99 £99.58 £45.11 £96.38

£1,661.751

Administrative S ta ffR.J.G.Anderson-BickleyMrs.M.H.J.Sussex

Mrs.S.M.Price

Dr.R.A.Gude, MB, BS(Lond), MRCP, FRCGP, DCH

M rs.S.M.Maclaren, RGN, RM Miss S.A.Witherall Miss K.Butler Miss K.E.Dover

Mrs.S.R.Da Rocha L.MitchellE.G.Willcock

Visiting S ta ff

J S Boorer, FTCL, AGSMD A E Crocker, GTCL, ATCL, LTCL, ARCOMrs C Diffley, ARCMMrs N Exell, BA, Mus. In Ed.I Goodall R KingJ Lewington, LTCL Mrs O Loewendahl, BA, PGCE Miss H Parke, LGSMS D Smith, GTCL, Cert Ed J F Tinker, CLCM Dip., LGSM Miss Z M Williams, LTCL Mrs M Willmott, BA, PGCE G Bush, Cert EdMrs S V Walsh, M Ed, BA, Cert EdMrs M Bayliss, LTAP R Bond, SRAB EasterbrookMiss K O 'B rienC Palmer, NDD (Illustration)J C Reeder E Veale

BursarSecretary

Clothing Shop

School Medical Officer

Head Matron Senior Assistant Matron

Assistant Matron Assistant Matron

Housekeeper Caterer

Head Groundsman

Woodwind Piano Piano

Bassoon Percussion

Guitar Singing

Cello Flute, Recorder

Oboe Brass Piano Violin

Learning Support Learning Support

Tennis Squash

Fly-fishing Dance

Archery Tennis Tennis

Gifts Received September 1999 - July 2000

Anonymous 2 computers and John Friend

Brian James (old boy) Wyndham Proctor Mr. & Mrs. J. Heale Leigh Bialick

Angela BradfordMr. & Mrs. J.W.A. ArmstrongMr. & Mrs. D. Day-RobinsonJoshua & Rupert PalmerMr. & Mrs. S. BalmMr. & Mrs. R. SmythMr. & Mrs. D. WatkinsThe Nail familyJaimin Patel (old boy)Mr. & Mrs. S. Crawford Anonymous

Sir Geoffrey & Lady Newman

laser printer/scanner fo r Pre-Prep Music books fo r Library and Erada Boudoir Grand Piano

Book fo r Library 2 computers

TrumpetGirls ’ Cross-Country Cup and

Cheque fo r Girls ’ Boarding House Girls ’ Set Cross-Country Cup

Leavers ’ Essay Competition Cup Work o f Art

Junior Artists ’ Cup Sailing Tankard Trophy

Hockey Cup Science equipment Science equipment

Printer Generous cheque

Generous cheque fo r sporting and other School equipment

Head Girls ’ Board

Our thanks to all those mentioned above and also fo r the many generous donations to the Music Appeal. These have enabled the target to be met. Instrument purchase, and building works o f the extension to the Music School, have now started.

3

Fanfare 1999-2000

Eleanor S Malcolm Isabelle F Malcolm Charles JV Mann Henry JW Manning Lucy OR Manning Phillip AJ Martin Alick RG Mildmay-White Sam A Morgan Christopher JA Morris Alexander J Nail Lloyd G Nail Elsie L Newman Louisa B Newman William A Newman Richard AJ Newsome Christopher AA O ’Brien Rory F O ’Brien Rory MB Oxenham Tom AW Oxenham Lizzie R Painter Tom D Painter David EO Palmer Lee M Paisley Hannah L Parfitt Edward G Parker Jake W Parker Patrick J Pearson M Elliott Pickard Jack E Rangeley James MS Righton James L Roobottom Duncan GB Sage George BC Sandle Samuel G Scoble William J Semken Sophia R Seymour Stuart M Smyth Emily M Speller Andrew P Stone Loma JV Studholme George JN Tetley Alexander D Tobey Amelia OF Townsend Angus MM Townsend Ella S Toynton Julia F Toynton Edward W Tuckett James W R Tuckett Holly L Walker Jacob Ward David DEWJ Watkins Sebastian R Watts Joseph J Whaley Thomas S Whaley Joshua EN Wheeler Samuel P Willetts Oliver A Williams R John Williams Richard G Yendle John D Yeomans Oliver J Yeoward Freya B Young-Jamieson Harry O Young-Jamieson Tess Young-Jamieson Charlie MO Zajicek Eleanor KC Zajicek Sophie OC Zajicek

School List - July 2000

Jack AdamsGeorge HW ArmstrongMichael D AshleyFenton F BaileyAnna V BalmPeter DH BalmJack R BarkwellLucy E BarkwellCharles BassettJames R BatchelorLucinda K BatchelorNicholas C BatchelorR Leigh BialickNathaniel BlackwoodSebastian BlackwoodOliver K BondA Rollo BrookeAnna EM BrownOrlando H BrowneAlexander J BunnellFrederick O BurwellChristian BuryWilliam A ByrneAlastair CV CampbellRobert F CampbellAlexander PJ CaterSebastian MK Cater »George W ClarkeMackenzie VQ ClavinGeorge WJ CoombsTristan WF CoulshawCharlotte E CowieSeamus A CrawfordMark CucksonTom CucksonLucy IE CummingRory PF CummingFreddie JL CunninghamHarriet EL CunninghamHenry DL CunninghamLuke L Dale-HarrisDavid M DalyRafe BD DanceNicholas S DashfieldCharlotte A DawsonEdward H DawsonRichard A DawsonWilliam R DawsonGeorge H Day-RobinsonWilliam J Day-RobinsonJames SC DownieCaspar VA DoyleMacdara R DuncanEleanor CR DurantOliver GWM Durant

James M Edwards Peter JS Elliott Thomas A Emerson John S Fishleigh Thomas J Franks Beau NA Fraser Christopher S Froud Antonia G Fulton Bruce S Fulton Danielle C Fulton Christopher M Gilling George H Goldberg Charles P Hanney James AS Harbord Simon NC Hardesty Dominic L Harding Jonathan JL Hare Ian J Hargreaves Neil J Hargreaves James S Harris Jonathan W Harris Stuart D Harris John MG Hawkins Antonella Haywood Olivia C Haywood Brittany A Heal Thomas MC Heal Anika M Heale Stuart M Heale Luke P Heracleous Hisham HA Hijazi Joseph C Hijazi Gemma A Insley India C Jacques Sebastian H Jacques Edward J Jaquiery Isaac L Jay Sam JC JenksAntigone R Johnstone-BurtPersephone E Johnstone-BurtAlexander GE JonesHarvey S JonesEmma R KennedyJames G KillingbeckRachael D KimberEdward T KivellAndrei KorantengHugh J LakeJack WT LawsonTess LawsonThomas CL LawsonJoshua A LeeJames LewisPeter R Liddell-GraingerSophie V Liddell-GraingerKatheryn L LigginsEmma A LitchfieldGuy FJ LitchfieldClare EB LongAlexander WF LoveDouglas RF LoveChristian TM LoweEmily J LummisAndrew J MacDougallKirstie MacDougallReavely JC MaitlandVenetia BT Maitland

4

T3CDO

“D

(0

Valete

J.P.H. Allerfeldt M.D.H. AllerfeldtG.H.W. Armstrong A.V. Balm P.D.H. BalmJ.R. Batchelor R.L. Bialick O.H. BrowneF. Burwell W.A. Byrne A.P.J. Cater T.W.F. Coulshaw S. Crawford M.J.F. Creber R. Creber L.L. Dale-HarrisD.M. Daly J.S.C. Downie J.M. Edwards P.J.S. ElliottD.L. Harding J.M.G. HawkinsE.J. JaquieryP.E. Johnstone-Burt E.R. KennedyH.J. Lake J. LewisP.R. Liddell-GraingerC.T.M. Lowe A.J. MacDougall A.J. NailL.G. Nail E.L. Newman W. Newman L.R.F. PainterD.E.O. PalmerE.D. ParkerH. Parker J.W. Parker P.J. Pearson M.E. Pickard J.E. Rangeley S.R. Seymour S.M. Smyth A.P.*Stone E.W. Tuckett J.R.W. Tuckett J. WardO.A. Williams T. Young-JamiesonH.O. Young-Jamieson E.K.C. Zajicek S.O.C. Zajicek

Exeter Cathedral School Exeter Cathedral School

Sherborne School Netherlands

K in g ’s College Taunton Sherborne School

Canford School Radley College

Kingsbridge Kelly College

Harrow School Tavistock

Sherborne School Callington

St. Joseph s School Marlborough College

Blundell s School K in g ’s College Taunton

King s School Bruton King's College Taunton

Sherborne School Marlborough College

Winchester College Monkton Combe School King's College Taunton King's College Taunton

Taunton School Ampleforth College

King's College Taunton King s School Bruton

King s College Taunton King's College Taunton

Bryanston School Kelly College

Millfield K in g ’s College Taunton

Port Regis Port Regis Port Regis

Sedbergh King's College Taunton

Exeter School Marlborough College King's School Bruton

Sherborne School Sherborne School

Wellington College King's School Bruton Milton Abbey School

Truro High School Bryanston School

Devonport High School Blundell’s School

School List (continued)

Pre-Prep

Johan PH Allerfeldt May DH Allerfeldt Benjamin F Ashley Sophie F Ashley Sascha T Bailey Tchameeran Bala-Kumaran Harry FL Birt Leonie M Blackwood Christian G Bond Christian BL Brown Theodore BL Brown Louisa L Butcher Tom EG Canning Michal S Choroszewski Sam A Choroszewski Christopher J Cowie Kathryn L Cowie Richard Creber Joe Dalton Alice M Donne Hannah M Donne Harry EM Finch Thomas M Grennan-Cruise Cecily Haywood Harry PC Heal Oenone S Heal Sarah M Heracleous Elizabeth A Jervoise Camilla R Lewis May A Liddell-Grainger Timothy Liggins Lucy A Luscombe Edward TC Mann James HT Mann Alistair PG Martin Henry 0 Maxwell-Lyte Jack B Morgan Hannah E Morris Frederick W Morris Oscar T Mustard Michael J O 'Reilly Sofia VG Oxenham Amelia J Parfitt Harry Parker Michelle L Peam Timothy S Pope Thomas W Rickard Dominic L Scaglioni Nicolas F Scaglioni Charlie J Scoble Thomas A Scoble Charles MC Speller Max PG Townsend Alice C Toynton Fern L Toynton Rosie Willetts Alexander B Woolcock Florence RT Zajicek

Salvete

Septem ber 1999B.F. Ashley M.D. Ashley S.F. AshleyC. Bassett L.M. Blackwood S.A. ChoroszewskiG.W. Clarke M.J.F. CreberH.E.L. CunninghamH.E.M. Finch C.S. Fraud J.W. HarrisI.C. Jaques S.H .Jaques S.J.C. JenksE.A. Jervois A.G.E. Jones T.C.L. Lawson J.A. LeeK.L. Liggins T.S.J. LigginsH.J.W. Manning L.O.R. ManningF.W. Morris M.J. O ’Reilly L.M. Paisley J.L. Roobottom S.G. Scoble T.A. Scoble W.J. Semken S.M. SmythG.J.N. Tetley A.O.F. Townsend M.P.G. Townsend S.R. WattsA.B. Woolcock O.J. Yeoward C.M.O. Zajicek November, 1999 R. Creber January, 2000 J.M. Anderson A.E.M. Brown T.B.L. BrownH.P.C. Heal O.S. Heal O.T. Mustard N.F. Scaglioni April, 2000C. BuryA.C.V. Campbell A.M. Donne M.R. DuncanC.J.V. MannE.T.C. Mann J.H.T. Mann L.B. NewmanC.J. Scoble

Fanfare 1999-2000

Prize List, Christmas 1999 Prize List, Easter 2000(continued)

Prize List, Summer 2000

“ 0

<0o" O

CD

Music Practice PrizesJames Tuckett, Persephone Johnstone-Burt, George Tetley, John Hawkins, Tiggy Johnstone-Burt, Stuart Smyth, Edward Tuckett, Robbie Campbell

Music Prizes for Outstanding Effort for Beginners

Robbie Campbell Horn Loma Studholme Trombone Freya Young-Jamieson Piano

Mr Bassett’s Indoor Hockey League Group C, comprising: Stuart Smyth,James Edwards, Harvey Jones, Tom Emerson, Beau Fraser, Stuart Heale,Rory Cumming

Rugby1st XV Tackling Seamus CrawfordBest Forward Tom Heal1st XV Trophy for Endeavour

William Dawson Most Improved Player (Edward Hooper Cup) Freddie Cunningham

Chess CompetitionWinner: James DownieRunner-up: James Edwards

Payne Cook Spelling: (Charles O ’Connor Cup) Winner: Julia ToyntonRunners-up: George Goldberg

Emma Litchfield Best Kept Dormitory Cup Winner: Raleigh

Prefect: David Palmer, Sam Jenks, James Righton, Phillip Martin, Josh Wheeler

Set Cup: Plus & Minus CupWinners: Owls (933 plusses)Second Otters (912 plusses)Third Kangs (907plusses)Fourth Hawks (883 plusses)

Prize List, Easter 2000

Music PracticePersephone Johnstone-Burt, Ian Hargreaves, George Tetley, George Coombs, George Clarke, Freya Young-Jamieson, Tiggy Johnstone-Burt

Instrumental Set Music Competition Junior W inner George TetleyJunior Runner-up Jonathan Harris4th Year W inner Anika Heale4th Year Runner-up Jake Parker5th Year Winner 5th Year Runner-up 6th Year Winner 6th Year Runner-up

Netball (Bermuda Cup)WinnerGirls’ HockeyWinnerCross Country Set Cup (M cC om ick Cup) Winner HawksCross Country Senior Race (Boys)(Jeremy Hill Shield 1990)Winner Tom Heal (H)2nd Stuart Heale3rd James KillingbeckIntermediate Race (Boys)

Intermediate Race (Girls) Form/Effort Prizes

Christopher O ’Brien Anna Brown Patrick Pearson William Byrne

Owls

Kang

Winner Phillip M artin2nd Edward Dawson3rd Jack LawsonJunior Race (Boys)Winner Edward Parker2nd Rory Oxenham3rd Tom LawsonCross Country Senior Race (Girls) Winner Tess Lawson2nd Venetia Maitland3rd Anna Brown

1st Brittany Heal 1KR. Form Prize2nd Ella Toynton Effort Prize3rd Anika Heale 1RW. Form PrizeJunior Race (Girls) Effort PrizeWinner Lottie Fulton 2YS. Form Prize2nd Charlotte Dawson Effort Prize3rd Clare Long Form Prize

2LY. Effort PrizeSenior Soccer C u d

3JB.

4RM.

Form Prize

Winner Kangs Intermediate Soccer CupWinner Owls

Effort Prize Form Prize Effort Prize Form Prize

Junior Soccer TrophyOwls

Effort PrizeWinner 4PS. Form PrizeIndoor Soccer (Paul Da Rocha Shield 1990) Effort PrizeWinner Kangs 5LB. Form PrizeSenior Set Rugby (Staveley Cup) Effort PrizeWinner Owls 5HW. Form PrizeIntermediate Set Rugby Effort PrizeWinner (5th Year Running!) Hawks 5MB. Form PrizeRugby Sevens (Hugh St Aubvns Cup 1996) Effort PrizeWinner Kangs 6JK. Form PrizeJunior Squash Cup

6JS.Effort Prize

Winner Lottie Fulton Form PrizeIntermediate Squash

Effort PrizeWinner Nicholas Batchelor6GC.Senior Squash (Peter Tugwell Shield 1989) Form Prize

Effort PrizeWinner Elliott Pickard

Spoken English (Rory Benham Cupl987) Winner Emily LummisSpoken English (Benjie Dudgeon Cup 1997) Winner Chris GillingSpoken Poetry (Stowe Cup 1997)Winner Clare LongSpoken EnglishOther Winners Amelia Townsend

Ella Toynton Bush Award For Endeavour (4th & 5th Years) Winner Hugh LakeSpecial Endeavour Prize Fenton Bailey

Mr Hamilton-Leggett’s General Knowledge QuizWinner Julia Toynton (K)Runner-up George GoldbergGeneral Knowledge (Guv Bailey Cup 1996) W inner Kangs(Victor Kandampully Trophy)Winner George Goldberg (Ot)Runner-up Caspar Doyle

Actor of the Year (Cashell Cup 1988)Winner Jack Rangeley (Ow)Runners-up Luke Dale-Harris

Leigh BialickJunior Actor o f the YearWinner Tom OxenhamRunners-up Venetia Maitland

Chris Gilling

Best Kept DormitoryWinners Raleigh and

Collingwood Collingwood Dormitory Captain: Persephone Johnstone-Burt; Freya Young-Jamieson, M ackenzie Clavin, Charlotte Cowie, Izzy Malcolm, Kirsty MacDougall, Loma Studholme, Tiggy Johnstone-Burt, Holly Walker.Raleigh Dormitory Captain: Edward Tuckett; Sam Jenks, Phillip Martin, James Righton, Josh Wheeler.

Set Cup - Plus & Minus (Morgan Cup 1930) Joint Winners: Kangs and Owls

(each with 917 plusses) 3rd Otters (934plusses)4th Hawks (906 plusses)

Subject PrizesEnglish

SeniorMiddleJunior

MathematicsSeniorMiddleJunior

ScienceSeniorMiddleJunior

Science (Thomas Prize)

Alex Jones Tom Lawson George Sandle Angus Townsend Lucinda Batchelor Henry Manning Clare LongFreya Young-Jamieson James Harbord Loma Studholme Lolly Haywood Sebastian Blackwood Robbie Campbell India Jaques George Goldberg Ella Toynton Andrei Koranteng Stuart Heale Freddie Cunningham Tess Lawson Julia Toynton David Watkins Emma Kennedy Jack Rangeley Persephone Johnstone-Burt Emma Litchfield Jonathan Hawkins Seamus Crawford

Lizzie Painter Lucy Cumming Jojo Hijazi

Alex NailTiggy Johnstone-Burt Sam Morgan

Alex NailTiggy Johnstone-Burt Sam Morgan

Senior Lloyd Nail

Senior Edward JaquieryMiddle Tom OxenhamJunior Gemma Insley

Senior Christian LoweMiddle George GoldbergJunior Nicholas Dashfield

Peter Balm George Goldberg Sam Morgan

Orlando Brown Ella Toynton Henry Manning

Percy Johnstone-Burt George Goldberg Lucinda Batchelor

Middle Jake ParkerJunior George Day-Robinson

Senior PersephoneJohnstone-Burt Ellie Zaijeck Joe Whaley

French

Latin

HistorySeniorMiddleJunior

GeographySenior Middle Junior

Religious Studies Senior Middle Junior

ICT

DT

Middle Junior

Art PrizesPotterySculptureDrawing

Rollo Brooke Rollo Brooke Julia Toynton

Imaginative Composition &Printmaking Sophie Liddell-Grainger Leaver Persephone

Johnstone-Burt Junior Artist o f the Year (Palmer Cup)

Freya Young-Jamieson(continued opposite)

Fanfare 1999-2000

The Honours Board

Prize List, Summer 2000 (continued)

Art Prizes (continued)Middle Artist o f the Year

Anika Heale Artist o f the Year Trophy

Seamus Crawford Best Marine Painting (Myles Varcoe Cup) Freya Young-JamiesonMost Improved Artist (Willoughby Cup) Simon Hardesty

Music PrizesPersephone Johnstone-Burt Robbie Campbell Tom Emerson Ian Hargreaves George Tetley David Watkins George Clarke

French Trip Prizes: fo r helpfulness,language progress & effort Julia Toynton, Venetia Maitland,Tom Emerson, Rachael Kimber,Harry Young-Jamieson, Peter Elliott, Leigh Bialick, Orlando Browne, Edward Tuckett, Andrew Stone, Andrew MacDougall

CricketFielding (Davis Cup)

James Batchelor Bowling (Toase Cup)

Alex Cater Batting (George Sharp Cup)

Seamus Crawford Colts All-Rounder (Williams Cup)

Nicholas Batchelor Under 9 Cup (Laurence Jarrett-Kerr)

Richard Dawson Sportsman of the Year (Andrew Leather Cup)

Seamus Crawford Sportsgirl of the Year (Morwenna Armstrong

Cup) Venetia MaitlandArchery (Kettle Trophy)Vre&A\z Burwell

G olf

G olf

Senior (Grierson Cup)William Dawson

Runner-Up Andrei Koranteng Junior (Inman Cup)

Richard Dawson Runner-Up George Coombs

Tennis (Bayliss Shield) Chris O ’Brien Tennis Junior Richard DawsonRounders Set Cup HawksFishing Senior (May Som en’ille Trophy)

Rafe Dance Fishing Junior (Lombard Hunt Cup)

Caspar Doyle Dormitory Cup Raleigh

Prefect: James Downie; Sam Jenks, Phillip Martin, James Righton, Joshua W heeler Plus & M inus Set Cup (Morgan Cup)Winners: Otters (699 Points)Second: Owls (660 Points)Third: Kangs (639 Points)M iddle School Effort (Christopher Anderson

Cup) Jack LawsonBush Prize Sophie Liddell-GraingerOutstanding Effort (Kirby-Harris Cup)

Andrew Stone Common Entrance (Crosthwaite Cup)

Luke Dale-Harris Achievement (Tavistock Rotary Club)

Lizzie Painter Endeavour (Stamms Cup)

Patrick Pearson All-Rounder Prize (James Petrie Dragon)

Seamus Crawford Leadership (Justin Gibbs Shield)

John Hawkins and Elsie Newman

MHS Association Head Boy’s & G irl’s PrizeElsie Newman and John Hawkins

Headm aster’s Prize Duncan !

R.L. Bialick

W.A. Byrne

S.A. Crawford

J.S.C. Downie

P.J.S. Elliott

E.R. Kennedy

C.T.M. Lowe

A.J. Nail

L.R. Painter

D.E.O. Palmer

P.J. Pearson

M.E. Pickard

S.M.Smyth

O.A. Williams

S.O.C Zajicek

Canford School Assyrian Scholarship

Kelly College Stoddard Award

Sherborne School, Exhibition & Jeremy Irons Scholarship

King’s College Taunton Barrow Scholarship

K ing’s College Taunton Design Exhibition

King’s College Taunton Meyer Exhibition

King’s College Taunton Exhibition &Classics Exhibition

King’s College Taunton Scholarship

Millfteld, Major Scholarship, Art Scholarship & All-Rounder Award

King’s College Taunton Exhibition

Sedbergh, Robertson Scholarship &Music Scholarship

K ing’s College Taunton Barrow Exhibition

King’s School Bruton Exhibition

Milton Abbey Sailing Scholarship

Blundell’s Art Scholarship

7

The Spoken English Competition 2000

oo3

" O

CD

O3(/>

Once again this competition was hugely enjoyable, reflecting the considerable interest which had been displayed in the earlier rounds o f the contest. Mount House was pleased to welcome back as chief adjudicator, Mr Simon Funnell, the headmaster o f King’s College, Taunton, who, assisted by Miss Lucy Ellis, produced a series o f his customary well-balanced decisions.

The evening began with poetry from the 1 st and 2nd Forms. Notable for the confident manner in which each competitor delivered every verse, this was a strong section and featured such diverse subjects as substitute teachers, space and Y-front larceny. A group-winner last year, Clare Long was victorious again, being awarded The Stowe Cup for Junior Poetry with ‘The Head’s Hideout’ - a subject which clearly appealed to the judging panel.

The 3rd and 4th Forms were equally impressive. Ranging across the centuries, from Shelley’s ‘Ozymandias’ to ‘Sea Fever’ to the more contemporary ‘The Lesson of The Moth’, this selection was a difficult one to judge. All of the performers drew warm praise from Mr Funnell, but, despite a very apt rendition of ‘Teabag’ from George Tetley, it was decided that the winner should be Amelia Townsend with ‘Horace Poem’ from Monty Python. Clear and precise in her diction, Amelia built up the tension o f the poem cleverly until the climax, when the de-powered boy, now just a stomach, was eaten by his hungry parents: gruesome but amusing.

Girls o f the same age competed in The Prose Section. Here the victor was Ella Toynton with her very well sustained version o f Jesus’ Christmas Party which chronicled the innkeeper’s comical failure to get to sleep having been interrupted by Mary and Joseph, shepherds et al.

In the Front Hall on Tuesday 1st February at 6.30pmA djud ica ted by R .S. Funnell, E squire, M A The H eadm aster, K ing s C ollege, Taunton

1st & 2nd FormsOliver Bond & Sebastian WattsHattie Cunningham & Lucy ManningGeorge Day-RobinsonClare LongRory OxenhamGeorge SandleEmily Speller

3rd & 4th FormsCaspar Doyle Antonia Fulton George Goldberg India Jacques George Tetley Amelia Townsend

3rd & 4th FormsMackenzie Clavin Lucy Cumming Ella Toynton

5th & 6th FormsLeigh Bialick Rollo Brooke Christopher Gilling Patrick Pearson

5th & 6th FormsAnna Brown Emily Lummis Venetia Maitland Alexander Nail Lizzie Painter

Finalists

PoetryWho Knows?Which one are you?SpaceThe Head’s Hideout Aliens Stole My Underpants Timeslip Supply Teacher

PoetryOzymandiasA Mucky JobThe Lesson o f the MothSea FeverTeabagHorace Poem

ProseAdrian MoleThe Bear Nobody Wanted Jesus’ Christmas Party

PoetryMatildaStory o f Little Suck-a-Thumb Died o f Wounds The River

ProseThe Chimney Sweep’s Boy Harry PotterThe Wind in the Willows BoyLiving with a Neurotic Dog

Allan Ahlberg David Hanner Robert Heidbreder Kit Wright Brian Moses Wendy Larmont Allan Ahlberg

Percy B. Shelley M. Maggie Don Marquis John Masefield Peter Dixon Monty Python

Sue Townsend J. & A. Ahlberg Nicholas Allen

Hilaire Belloc H. Hoffmann S. Sassoon Ted Hughes

J.G. Hill J.K. Rowling K. Grahame Roald Dahl Stephen Baker

The contrasts in the poetic content o f the penultimate section for 5th and 6th formers were stark. From the morality tale o f “Matilda” to the childish fable o f “Little suck-a-thumb”; from the horrors o f the trenches in the First World War to the pastoral constancy o f The River, the audience was in turn amused and appalled. Weighing the merits o f each poem was clearly problematical, but few found fault with Mr Funnell’s decision to award the prize to Christopher Gilling whose rendition of Sassoon’s lines from the death-ward was frighteningly effective.

The evening concluded with prose readings from the senior girls and boys. Once again the standard was uniformly high and with well-selected extracts from a variety o f sources the audience was well-entertained to the end. Appropriately, in a year when “Potterfever” has hit new heights, the winner was Emily Lummis whose reading from the opening o f “The Chamber o f Secrets” well encapsulated Harry’s feelings on having to spend the summer holidays with the screaming Uncle Vernon and the loathsome Aunt Petunia.

By tradition three cups are awarded at the end o f this competition. The winners are listed below.

The Stowe Cup for Junior PoetryThe Benjie Dudgeon Cup for Senior PoetryThe Rory Benham Cup for Spoken English

Clare Long Christopher Gilling Emily Lummis

Once again my thanks go to all the pupils in the school, many o f whom produced entries well up to competition standard, and to all staff, who helped to make this event such a success.

Guy Canning

The Payne Cook Spelling Competition

oo3

" O

CD

O3(/>

Sampras at Wimbledon, Red Rum at Aintree, Julia Toynton in The Payne Cook. Multiple winners in any event are rare and already excitement is building to see if the spelling wizard can pull off the hat-trick!

In the 1999 renewal, on arguably a harder list than the preceding year, standards were as high as ever, seven pupils scoring the maximum one hundred in Round One; with 5MB proving to be the top form with a most impressive 97.55%. When one considers that the list included such complex spellings as ‘confectionery’, ‘reversible, and ‘tranquillity’, not to mention ‘spectroscope’ it is evident how hard the vast majority had worked over half-term.

After Round Two the top three, Emma Litchfield, George Goldberg and Julia Toynton had emerged as the leaders, but two further rounds were needed to split them. Finally, after twenty unseen spellings in Round Four, Julia retained her title, with George second and Emma third. With all three returning to do battle next year, dictionary-revision is likely to be just as intense!

Listed below are The Top Seven in the school, followed by the ‘unseen list’ on which the champion and the winner o f The Charles O ’Connor Cup scored 20. See if your parents are perfect at Christmas!

Guy Canning

1 st Julia Toynton2nd George Goldberg3rd Emma Litchfield4th= Tristan Coulshaw

123456

78 9

10

dazzlinglighterpubliclycloudsquaysidereversingsatisfactionguaranteetranslateatlantic

4th= Christopher Gilling 6th Ella Toynton 7th David Watkins

11 strategy12 peril1314151617181920

referenceequalityappearancepassagepredictabledefinitelyvisionauctioneer

The Guy Bailey General Knowledge Quiz

When Guy Bailey left Mount House, he generously donated a cup for General Knowledge. It is awarded to the winning set. Every pupil in the school participates in a 40 minute quiz and the average for each set is then calculated. In 1998 Victor Kandampully presented a trophy for the individual with the highest overall score. It would be useful to have another trophy so that we could have one for the highest individual boy and girl!

This year Hawks averaged 50.79%, Otters 53.33%, and Owls 57.56%, but the clear winners were Kangs with 58.98%.

Being a lover o f statistics my computer calculated that the boys averaged 54.52% while the girls did a little better, scoring 57.28%. The best forms were 6GC (75%), 3GA (73%), 6JS (69%) and 5MB (69%). Unusually, 8 day pupils were absent on the day o f the quiz!

The overall winner was George Goldberg (4PS) o f Otters. Caspar Doyle (3GA) came second (93%) and David Palmer (6GC) third (88%). Julia Toynton (5MB), the highest scoring girl, was fourth with 87%.Each year the quiz produces an array o f unusual and bizarre answers and this year’s was no different from others. Amongst the amusing answers were these:-

O f what is die the singular? DeadWhat is the last book in the Bible called? Radiation; NoahWhat is the longest musical note? A breathWhat is Plynlimon? Opera singing; A flower; LemonadeI f two is company what is three? More company; A packSupercalifragillisticexpialidocious was sung by Mary? Tudor;WhitehouseWhat covers over 70% o f the Earth? The SunName the first book o f the Bible? Adam and Eve; GodWhat piece o f equipment do you need to play Cats Cradle? A cat; Aflu teWho is the Prime Minister o f Britain? David Beckham What is James Bond’s code name? BrookAt which end of the church does the altar face? The way the seats fa ceWhat is the force that pulls all things downward? Southern ElectricityWhat is unusual about a Manx cat? They are all girls Who composed the ballet music Swan Lake? Betto Venn; Try Kofski What was the name o f the boat the Pilgrim Fathers used to sail to America? TitanicWhat is it called when you fall off your board in surfing? Careless; Sad; ClumsyWho rides a racehorse? M y sisterWhat did Clarence Birdseye pioneer in 1925? CustardWhose plays include King Lear, Hamlet, and Romeo and Juliet?Leonardo de Caprio

My thanks to all the staff who helped mark the scripts and especially Brian Armfield who generously allowed some pupils to miss their music practice. I hope everybody enjoyed it, and once again well done Kangs!

Peter R. Hamilton-Leggett

Top ten girlsToynton, J 87 Top ten boysPainter, L 78 Goldberg, G 96Clavin, M 77 . Doyle, C 93Cowie, C 76 Palmer, D 88Haywood, O 76 Balm, P 86

. Brown, A 76 Stone, A 86Kimber, R 75 Lowe, C 80Toynton, E 73 Armstrong, G 80Bialick, L 73 Nail, L 80Barkwell, L 72 Hawkins, J 79Malcolm, E 72 Cumming, R 78

Music

At the time o f publication of this edition o f ‘Fanfare’, the Music Department will be looking forward, as well as reflecting on the previous year’s music. The new extension to the music school, a much needed project, is well in the course of construction with a view to the new facilities being in place before the Summer Term, 2001.

The success o f the project has been due to the exhaustive efforts o f so many people involved, steered by a very effective and inspired music development committee. It now means that the 180 lessons per week, 120 practices per day, plus accommodation for the various choirs, orchestra, and instrumental groups can now take place without the constant pressures o f lack of space. The generous support o f all parents and friends o f the school is greatly appreciated. One offshoot o f the Appeal is that three students from outside the school will be receiving lessons as a result o f bursaries offered by generous benefactors. The number o f children applying for the scholarships was huge, indicating a keen interest in music in the Tavistock area. At one audition, a 7-year old boy was asked which school he was attending. After this reply, Mr Llewellyn, who was judging the scholarships, asked which school he hoped to attend next and he replied: “I am hoping to miss out Senior School and go straight to University” - an ambitious intent!

At the beginning o f the school year, we were delighted with the CD which was released o f the chapel Choir singing Church Music and accompanied by Carlo Curley on the magnificent organ o f Torrington Parish Church. There are still CDs (£12 each) and cassette tapes(£8 each) available. Carlo Curley has sold over 400 himself at his various recitals in Cathedrals and Churches throughout the country.

The Chapel Choir continued to give recitals outside the school- the highlights being a performance o f M ozart’s Requiem in October in St Andrew’s Church Plymouth, and a concert in Buckfast Abbey in November. We again supported the Annual Diocesan Choirs’ Festival in Exeter Cathedral, also in November. Exeter Cathedral was the venue again in January, when members o f the Chapel Choir and the Senior Girls’ Choir took part in an ambitious musical Concert with music arranged and composed by William Llewellyn, our Appeal Chairman, as well as music by Barry Ferguson, formerly organist at Rochester Cathedral.

The Chapel Choir ended the year in the summer holidays with a week together based at Papplewick School in Ascot where visits to theme parks, including Alton Towers, Chessington and Thorpe Park were greatly enjoyed. I am indebted to Mr Walkington from Mount House and Mr Ian Garnett, chef from Eton College, as well as the Chaplain o f Papplewick School, Rev Edward Phillips- Smith for their splendid contribution to a most happy and successful week.

Members o f the Chapel Choir also attempted and passed singing awards organized by the Royal School o f Music. The highest awards, the Devon and St Boniface, are adjudicated by Messrs William Llewellyn and Trevor Jarvis from Buckfast Abbey. The tests are demanding and so we were delighted that the following gained the awards:

Devon Award:Tom EmersonDavid WatkinsJohn YeomansAlick Mildmay-White

St Boniface Award:Orlando BrowneAndrew MacDougall

The other Boys’ Choirs and the two Girls’ Choirs have produced some excellent singing. The Girls’ Choirs are now firmly established and now that there are more girls in the school, this has helped to tackle more ambitious music for the choirs

involved. The highlights being a Christmas Carol Concert and a summer concert in which the Cantata - ‘Holy Moses’ was performed.

Two orchestral concerts have helped to provide a yardstick for the orchestra and instrumental groups.

Our congratulations to Patrick Pearson who gained a music scholarship to Sedbergh School. He was also the first Mount House pupil to be selected to play in the National I.A.P.S. Symphony Orchestra - the standard of their final concert in the famous Maltings Concert Hall in Aldeburgh was of the highest order and in front o f an audience o f 1,000. Four other pupils were selected to play in the I.A.P.S.Second Orchestra.

Informal Concerts at the end of each term have again proved to be popular, as have the Class Concerts, with nearly every pupil participating.

We have been lucky with our adjudicators for the set competitions. Mr John Jenkins, Director o f Music at Sherborne Girls’ School judged the final o f the Instrumental Competition, won by Kangs. I am most grateful to Messrs Walkington,Banyard, and Hudson, as well as Mrs Kilpatrick, forjudging the semifinals o f this competition.

The solo winners were:

Jonathan James Trophy for Strings Peter Evelyn Cup for Brass Michael Bawtree Trophy for Piano Beard Cup for Woodwind Angus M cBride Cup

for the best Junior Musician W oodcock Cup

for the best Senior Musician Channel Four Cup for the Winning Set Kangs

Mr Andrew Wilson, Director o f Music at Kelly College gave us an excellent morning when he judged the singing competition. All soloists in the solo section bravely hid nerves and performed confidently.

The winners were:

Hattie Newman Trophy Lucy Cummingfor the Senior Girl Solo

Robert Kitson Cup Andrew MacDougallfor the Senior Boy Solo

Chepstow Cup for the winning Junior Girl Olivia HaywoodDavid Keys Cup for the winning Junior Boy Alexander JonesDevon Cup for the best Set Choir Kangs

Associated Board exams took place and everyone passed, many with very good marks. (Results are opposite.)

It has been a privilege for us to have the services during the year o f Mr Jamie Hudson, who spent his gap-year with us helping and teaching music. His patience and expertise were always evident and his versatility in many areas o f music made an impact. We wish him well as he studies music at Durham University.

Messrs William Seldon and Charles Cunningham have helped considerably with assisting the checking and supervising o f music practices. The Chapel Choir is fortunate to rely on a number of adult singers, and this enables us to tackle four-part music on many occasions.

Finally, I am indebted to the 12 visiting instrumental teachers who have given their services so readily and enthusiastically at all times. With the numbers o f musicians increasing, we have had difficulties finding space for all teachers at times, but the new extension will be o f great benefit to all concerned in music making at Mount House School.

Brian Armfield

Patrick Pearson George Tetley

Christian Lowe William Byrne George Tetley

Patrick Pearson

Fanfare 1999-2000

Music (continued) Associated Board Music Exams

Percussion Exams (Guildhall School o f Music)Grade 1Sam Jenks 250 (out o f 250) High Honours

There were no failures in the Academic Year.

Grade 6Patrick Pearson Violin 130 DistinctionPatrick Pearson Piano 114 Pass

Grade 5Rachael Kimber Clarinet 117 PassTristan Coulshaw Trumpet 113 Pass

Grade 4George Goldberg Clarinet 134 DistinctionGeorge Goldberg Piano 132 DistinctionGeorge Tetley Trumpet 128 MeritChristopher O ’Brien ’Cello 104 PassWilliam Byrne Clarinet 101 Pass

Grade 3Emma Litchfield Recorder 130 DistinctionElla Toynton Singing 125 MeritAlick Mildmay-White Saxophone 125 MeritTristan Coulshaw Trumpet 124 MeritJulia Toynton Piano 117 PassOrlando Browne Piano 117 PassLeigh Bialick Singing 117 PassCharles Hanney Trumpet 116 PassRachael Kimber Piano 116 PassDavid Palmer Clarinet 115 PassEleanor Zajicek Clarinet 112 PassStuart Smyth ’Cello 105 Pass

Grade 2Julia Toynton Oboe 136 DistinctionLucy Cumming Singing 130 DistinctionRobbie Campbell Flute 124 MeritAnna Balm Flute 123 MeritSophie Zajicek Flute 122 MeritRachael Kimber Bassoon 122 MeritJames Tuckett Clarinet 120 MeritAntigone Johnstone-Burt Piano 118 PassVenetia Maitland Flute 116 PassElla Toynton Singing 115 PassLuke Heracleous Trumpet 115 PassMackenzie Clavin Singing 110 PassElsie Newman Bassoon 108 PassPeter Balm Trombone 108 PassAlexander Love Violin 104 Pass

Marks out o f 150: 100+ Pass; 120+ Merit; 130+ Distinction

Grade 1Peter Liddell-Grainger SaxophoneIndia Jaques RecoderAntonia Fulton RecorderWilliam Day-Robinson TrumpetAntigone Johnstone-Burt PianoPersephone Johnstone-Burt PianoThomas Franks TrumpetIsabelle Malcolm TrumpetAmelia Townsend PianoAndrew MacDougall PianoSophia Seymour ClarinetDavid Watkins PianoJake Parker ClarinetGeorge Coombs PianoJohn Yeomans PianoNicholas Batchelor PianoJames Batchelor Piano

132131130130130130128127126125124117116113113110103

DistinctionDistinctionDistinctionDistinctionDistinctionDistinctionMeritMeritMeritMeritMeritPassPassPassPassPassPass

11

Fanfare 1999-2000

Reviews o f “Ernie s Incredible ‘Illucinations

0>

30)

This year’s Easter Term performance of Ernie’s Incredible Tllucinations’ by Alan Ayckbourn was another huge success in the growing tradition o f Mount House drama.

Hugh Walkington’s production, thoroughly enjoyed by all those involved, was cast and directed with flair and pace. The play was filled with outstanding performances and many surprises, not least of which were Jack Rangeley as Dad,Leigh Bialick as Mum and Peter Balm as the German Officer. It was impossible not to fall under the spell o f Luke Dale-Harris who was perfectly suited to the part of Ernie, and played it with relaxed confidence, taking full advantage o f the stage which cleverly extended into the central aisle thus allowing him to communicate directly with his audience as the play unfolded behind him.

Jack Rangeley kept up his convincing northern accent to the very end without sacrificing any o f the clarity o f his lines and was fortunate in playing opposite Leigh Bialick as Mum, another successful choice. Together they formed a convincing and very amusing on stage relationship.

The transformation of Jack Rangeley into Superman by the donning of a pair o f small satin briefs was something of a masterstroke, and the library scene in which he rescues Lloyd Nail the Librarian, turned rock climber, from his precarious position, admirably maintained, on the step ladder/rock face was a delightful moment for the audience.

Elsie Newman and Lizzie Painter also playing Librarians greatly helped in orchestrating the success o f this scene, as did Percy Johnstone-Burt who played her part as a Lady with a natural pose and polish.

Andrew Stone as the doctor, trying to unravel some scientific logic from Ernie’s strange tale, portrayed a convincing sense o f bemusement as events unfolded, whilst Emma Kennedy brought just the right air

much amusement. No one could fail to respond to the sight o f her diminutive figure darting about the boxing ring delivering a hail o f well rehearsed blows, with a dangerously swinging handbag, whilst peering from under a suitably demure hat, which slipped over her eyes at perfectly timed moments. Sophie Zajicek as a Woman, Sophia Seymour as a Second Woman and Alex Nail as a Second Man all played lively well acted roles as did James Downie as a Man and James Edwards as Timekeeper as well as Edward Jaquiery whose rendering of the Tramp was received with appreciation by the audience.

The play moved with a smooth flow from scene to scene and credit must be given to Seamus Crawford, the stage manager, as well as Patrick Pearson for his perfectly executed sound effects, and not forgetting Stuart Smyth as the prompter whose attentive presence was a vital reassurance to the cast even though they knew their lines perfectly.

Mary Goldberg

of efficiency to her p^rt as the Receptionist. Edward Tuckett as one o f the doctor’s more bizarre patients supplied one o f the early humorous moments o f the play.

Peter Balm ’s rendering o f the German Officer in the living room scene, with his barking staccato tones almost had the audience standing to attention. Peter was ably supported in his role by an equally impressive squad o f German Soldiers played by William Byrne, Tristan Coulshaw and Andrew MacDougall.

The vibrant fairground scene made full use o f the stage and saw everyone acting to the full including the Fair Barkers played by Christian Lowe, Alick Mildmay-White, George Armstrong and David Palmer, who delivered their lines with clarity and self-assurance. The fight was particularly well staged with Peter Liddell-Grainger and Jonathan Hawkins seeming to relish their on stage conflict, which was most ably refereed by Harry Young-Jamieson. Emma Litchfield as Auntie May provided the audience with

12

Fanfare 1999-2000

Reviews o f “Ernie s Incredible ‘Illucinations

The news was out! T here was to be a 6th Form play, produced by M r W alkington. As the end of the Christm as term approached, Thursday afternoon auditions w ere held and we read the play in order to help us choose a part. For me the G erm an O fficer was a must, and som e people, like Jack Rangeley as the D ad, w ere naturals. M ost o f the 6th Form w ere there and all parts were quickly cast. Next cam e the hard w ork of learning the parts and rehearsing, which lasted over the Christm as holidays.

A t the start o f the E aster term we had our costum es and w ere supposed to know our lines, although a few scripts w ere still appearing. By half-term the pressure was on as the ‘O pening N ight’ was nearing. C onfidence was boosted by a good dress rehearsal, bu t come the day there w ere still a few nerves on show. The fun really started with costum es and m akeup, and although we did no t play to a full house the audience seem ed to really enjoy it. The whole thing raced by and before we knew it we were bowing in fron t o f the curtain to enthusiastic applause. T hat evening we played to the w hole school, some of the younger ones being quite startled to see the antics of the senior year. The closing night was the m ost fun as the cast m ade the most o f their characters, and there was a particularly lively audience.

E rn ie was a very good choice, as it had many strong characters, lots of hum our and a fast moving story line. It was enjoyed by cast and audience alike, thanks to M r W alkington’s excellent directing style, which allowed him to stay cool, keep his nerve and show us w hat fun it can be to pu t on a play.

Peter Balm

13

Boots W All

The girls portrayed a team o f apathetic rugby players to a tee. They came across as totally uninterested, obviously lacking in enthusiasm and with no desire at all to play rugby. In contrast to the attitude of the players on the bench, the sporty cheerleaders were a rousing diversion.

Bailey (Lucy Cumming) was especially nauseous and convincing whilst the reluctant tennis playing reserves all contributed to this uninterested ‘girlie’ team.

Coach’s (Tom Oxenham) introduction to the play was dynamic and that was aptly aided by the sombre drumbeat (Jacob Ward). Tom’s fluency continued without fleeting throughout as he struggled to inspire the team to an unlikely victory over the unseen opponents who were portrayed as Six Nations Champions!

Injuries received during the match were excruciatingly convincing. The reporter (Chris Gilling) gave an ‘in character’ laid back performance o f the off-stage match and the surprise appearance of Brewster (Venetia Maitland) in the opposing team ’s strip gave this story a clever twist, much to the relief o f the Coach and the Team. The behind scenes production team is to be congratulated on assembling the various costumes and set, whilst the introduction o f ‘FRED’ was an innovative use o f props to move a communication between Coach and Reporter across the stage.

The audience enthusiastically received this obviously well rehearsed and directed performance.

Hazel Hawkins

14

Boots W All

The Coach s View

I think the most successful part o f the play was when everything was running smoothly and everyone was remembering their lines. But this was not always the case.

I remember calling one o f the players in my team Grunt instead o f Grant! The most worrying part for me was when the actors and actresses became nervous and forgot their lines. Overall I thought the play was a huge success.

Tom Oxenham

15

Video/Film Club Stamp Club

>O

CD</>

This has proved to be a very popular Activity. Pupils have been influenced by S Club 7, The Offspring, Lou Bega, James Bond, Monty Python, Vengaboys and The Choir Holiday 1999 amongst others, and one group composed their own music for its project!

My thanks to Tom Emerson and, especially, Peter Elliott for their help in filming various events and to Katie O ’Brien for her' help with dance routines.

Such is the popularity o f the Club that numbers have now had to be limited. Long may such enthusiasm continue!

Jonathan Banyard

Chess ClubThe Chess Club has continued to prove a popular pursuit and

many beginners can now play to a reasonable standard. Beating parents is usually the first goal!

The Nicholas Tucker Cup, awarded to the winner o f the knock-out competition, was closely contested in the Easter term. James Downie fought his way through, beating Edward Parker in his semi-final game, while James Edwards had a harder struggle, finally beating William Dawson to reach the finals. In the end James Downie proved the stronger player, winning the cup in two straight games.

The weekly Chess Quiz caused much head scratching but a few ardent followers usually found the right solution. The juniors continue to enjoy the large out-door chess set in the courtyard.

Any unwanted chess sets or chess books would be most welcome.

Peter R. Hamilton-Leggett

Children are collectors o f most things, and stamps have proved no exception. The club continues to flourish, meeting in the Science Lab once or twice a week. The ‘country packets’ have now reached over 300, and a thematic collection is also beginning to grow, with mammals, birds, shells, space travel, trains, and buildings being the most popular. I have also started to look for stamps having a weather and climate theme, but these have proved very elusive. Many pupils continue to enjoy soaking stamps off paper and sorting them, even though they do not actually collect stamps themselves - a most useful service!

Rather than buying an expensive album, pupils can now print out A4 sheets on the computer and keep them in a ring binder. These look neat, with the country name in a box at the top, and can be sorted into any order with ease.

Many modem stamps have been donated, especially, this year, by Miss Lois Spencer, but we are always on the look-out for stamps, on paper, loose or in albums, so if you have any unwanted collections at home then please remember the MHS Stamp Club.

Peter R Hamilton-Leggett

MHS Cookery BookI am pleased to write that, through the kindness o f many o f

you, £1,000 has been raised for the Music Appeal! Do not despair if you want another copy, or copies, because I have ordered reprints ready for the Christmas season!

Many thanks again to Brenda Blackwood and Diana Green for all their help and encouragement with this project.

Jonathan Banyard

Mr Hamilton-Leggett’s Weekly Quiz

Answers to the quick-quiz (above, right)jjrupuBQ o i

°Pnl 6 8

( D i l l *» IV ui) JB3 aJiqsaiQ aqj. l|3u q B {) puB p B q o iy j 9

•JJBZOp\ Xq SJJJOM J3JJB 0J32StOI ‘90£51 33U3H |aqD O ^ uoa S iM p rrj Xq pajBuiSuo

‘jjbzoj^ j o s>jjo m a q j o j p sq d d B S u u a q u in u j o luajsXs a q x guinujnaisi p

S-MNV1 tfHlVM P31WIS3JBJ0 Ul 33UBJJ OJ JU3S 3J3M Xsqj SUOSBOJ XJUI103S JOJ £

|3uiB3 — JOJU3AUI Jiaqj j o siubu aqj iuo jj jnq ‘jiBq puiBO u io jj apBui sjb Xaqj asnBoaq jo n 3

uaayiq j jaq iunu aqj j o JB3J j

It is a very special person, who, week after week, spends hours researching the answers to twenty-five elusive questions. This quiz has been running for a few years, and is designed to increase the level o f general knowledge and current affairs. I have always tried to encourage scholars to have a go in their last few terms.

Over the past year or so Julia Toynton and George Goldberg have battled against each other, with Julia just winning each time. Other persistent participants have been Jonathan Hare, Annie Heale, George Coombs, Jake Parker, Rachael Kimber, Ellie Malcolm and Caspar Doyle. Even some parents get copies sent home and Matron always likes to pit her wits.

Peter Hamilton-Leggett

Chapel Choir RecordingSome copies o f the CD (or tape) o f the

School Choir singing in Great Torrington Church, accompanied by world-famous organist Carlo Curley are still available. Once the present supply has run out it is unlikely that any more copies will be made. If you have not yet ordered a copy then contact Mrs Pat Tear at the School as soon as possible. Not only is this a fine recording to have as a souvenir, it also makes an ideal present. The CD is £12, and the tape is £8. Proceeds are dedicated to the Music Department.

Here are some typical questions.1 What is triskaidekaphobia?2 Why are camel-hair brushes so called?3 How did the tank get its name?4 Which o f these is not an element —

palladium; samarium; neutrium; yttrium?5 W hat are Kochel numbers?6 Who are the only two angels named in the

Bible?7 Who disappeared leaving only a smile?8 What kind o f animal is a Bechstein,

Noctule or Barbastrelle?9 The name o f which board game was

derived from the Latin meaning “I play”?10 Sebhorric dermatitis is the correct name

for which bodily affliction?

16

>o

(D</>

Mountain Biking at Luhedec in Southern Brittany

Occasionally one is offered an opportunity in this World and GA’s philosophy is always to accept. He is very often overheard encouraging the children to go out and grab life with both hands in case they miss a wonderful experience. He thus had no hesitation in accepting an invitation to take a group of boys Mountain Biking at Mr and Dr Elliott’s Farm, Luhedec, near Quimpede, in Southern Brittany. What a superb trip it turned out to be.

Luhedec is a traditional Breton Farm, deep in the French countryside, about 15 kilometres from the nearest town and two or three kilometres from any village. It is an isolated rural retreat and its 100 acres o f land has woods, fields, water meadows, streams, hills and valleys as well as a variety o f wild-life including two very inquisitive hares that appeared on the long driveway each morning. It is very remote and very quiet - a very special place in a busy and noisy world. The farmhouse is comfortable though it does have the usual idiosyncratic French plumbing and an extremely cantankerous washing machine that could repeat its cycle for days on end.

The boys quickly settled in, and our first day was spent buying supplies in Quimpede before getting on our bikes in the afternoon and exploring the farm.There were several very wicked short downhills and the boys were quickly practising their crash landing techniques one or two o f which were quite spectacular. Any teething problems with the bikes were quickly sorted before we all rushed off to the beach for a swim followed by a superb meal in a local restaurant. The first day was very successful.

On the second day’s biking we explored further afield. We had noticed several French Bike Trail signs so decided to investigate. The riding was varied and was a good introduction for us. After several kilometres we were thwarted by a JCB that was constructing another section of track so had to detour back on the route to a different starting point. Amazingly we travelled in a wide circle and came round to the back o f Luhedec where we discovered some superb downhill tracks in the woods and a rough track heading down the stream valley to a wonderful pool just right for swimming.

Very few of our pupils have the opportunity for complete freedom in safety these days but Luhedec provides such a chance. No programme was fixed for the evening, the boys had 100 acres to play in and do what they like. Several o f them found the freedom difficult to cope with at first but rapidly adapted to it and had a wonderful time in the fields, woods and streams.

With the full use o f Les Cartes Touristiques Locales we were able to plan

many interesting routes. Two days were spent exploring the Foret Dom De Camoet which provided some very fast and tricky biking involving several nasty falls on one deep ravine section. We were able to recover at the cafe by the Abbaye o f the Church of St. Maurice though we did look a trifle strange with our mud-besmattered cycling gear.

We experimented with a route down alongside La Laita River from the Pont de St Maurice. The path to Port du Pouldu was very good but after we had crossed the river by ferry to Guidel Plages the opposite bank’s path was on high cliffs and very dangerous, so we had to push the bikes.

The weather was quite good so each afternoon we decamped to the Plage de Bellangenet which provided good, cold surf, an abundance of wet digging sand, rocks and rockpools and some very attractive young ladies. The boys must have moved several tons o f sand on the beach!

GA has been out to the area since “to complete writing the Geography syllabus”, he said, “in peace and quiet”. We think it must have been all fieldwork, for he found another set o f wicked routes: all to be tried on our next visit. The coastal path from the Plage de Bellangenet westwards along to the Pont de Grange on the river Doelan is tricky, mean and tortuous; a route around the Devil’s Rock also provides plenty of excitement and is yet to be fully explored; and a route along the right hand bank of the upper reaches o f the River Isole takes no prisoners and had GA in the river within five minutes o f starting the route. Then, on a detour, on his way back to Roscoff he discovered another new area for mountain-biking which is just begging to be ridden - the Reservoir de St Michel and the hills surrounding it. We can’t wait until we visit Luhedec next year. The Mountain Biking is BIG.

Geoffrey Allen

The previous year’s trip had been so successful that I was initially nervous about the prospects for this year - would it match up to the high standards o f last year, and would we be so lucky with the weather? The answers to these questions turned out to be "yes” and “no”. Normandie a la Carte once again excelled themselves, preparing everything down to the most minute detail and ensuring that everyone had an enjoyable week. The weatherman was not so co-operative unfortunately, and we had three or four extremely cold days to start off with. To the children’s enormous credit, this did not dampen their enthusiasm in any way whatsoever for the various activities that were laid on.

Accompanied by Jonathan Banyard, Jennie Kibblewhite and Andrea MacDougall, we set off early in the morning from school to catch the 1.00pm ferry from Portsmouth to Le Havre. This was at the suggestion o f an inside contact (thank you again, Mrs. Litchfield!) and it proved a winning idea, as the ferry was much more spacious and better equipped than that used last year. The crossing was made much easier by the co-operation of the P&O staff and ensured that the party arrived at the Grange d ’Espins in good humour, your correspondent included!

The activities were much the same as last year, except that the rain made le kayak [canoeing] impossible for safety reasons as the river was so high and so une chasse au tresor [treasure hunt] was organized through the woods. The new activity for this year was I ’escalade [climbing], and was much enjoyed by everyone including J.K. & A. M. Unfortunately your correspondent was unable to participate due to pressure of time (!) and as usual J.B. was far too busy setting up the next shot for his video blockbuster “The Longest Week”.

Last year, we went to Bayeux to see the world-famous tapisserie de la reine Mathilde. This year, we went to the Memorial Museum in Caen, one o f the most fascinating and moving museum visits any of us has ever experienced. It is to be thoroughly recommended if you are ever visiting that part o f Normandy. The exhibition opens with a long spiral descent into the bowels o f the museum, starting with the Treaty o f Versailles in 1919, and ending with Hitler addressing a rally at the beginning o f the war in 1939. A chilling experience, and quite extraordinarily effective. We then passed on to a film about the Battle o f Britain (a surreal experience for the children as it was in English with French subtitles!) before moving onto a graphic representation o f the invasion o f Normandy in 1944. This was a very clever combination o f newsreel and 3D graphics, allowing seven seconds

French Trip to Normandy, Easter 2000

for each day, starting o f course with June 6th 1944. Finally, a moving film demonstrated just how little the world has learnt from these conflicts, showing the ravages o f war throughout the world leading up to the recent conflict in the Balkans. Museum visiting with schoolchildren can be a chore - but no-one wanted to leave this museum early.

The annual trip to Paris coincided with four inches o f snow in North Devon, and it felt like it! The temperature never got above 6°. (In stark contrast to last year when the party roasted in temperatures of 22°!) This made a picnic in full view o f the Eiffel Tower rather less romantic an experience than it might appear. I can only once again commend the children for their uncomplaining attitude, and Andrew and Woody, the two leading partners in Normandie a la Carte, for their meticulous organization which ensured that burgers were booked in advance at a burger bar opposite the Gare St Lazare, and that we caught the return train with one minute to spare! Having missed out on this trip last year, I could understand why all the children had loved it. We managed to take in the Champs-Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, the Pyramid at the Louvre, la Tour Eiffel, a boat trip along the Seine passing the Musee d'Orsay (home o f the finest impressionist works) and the cathedral o f Notre Dame. We were to visit the latter after lunch, working off the calories by climbing what seemed like endless stairs to the gallery at the west front o f the cathedral with an extraordinary view over the city. For one fleeting

moment it seemed as if Quasimodo was alive and well and back in business, but in fact it was a guide demonstrating the pure tone o f the largest bell on the bell tower to a bemused-looking Japanese tourist!

What else? Well, not much, if you don't count the scintillating Banyard pop quiz (won yet again by the staff), brisk trade in le magasin de bonbons,

competitive charades, football and volleyball in the grounds o f the gite ... and the gastro-enteritis. Unfortunately, a germ had escaped from Les Orres the week before, and one of our party was laid low. Lesser groups might have been decimated by such a catastrophe, but with Nurse MacDougall around, the germ never stood a chance. Nicknamed “The Lady o f the

Limp”, probably due to an accident sustained abseiling on a mountain bike, Andrea MacDougall was tireless in her attention to the medical requirements o f the party, and there are several boys and girls who - along with me - owe her an enormous debt o f gratitude. Without the enthusiasm o f her, and Jennie and Jonathan, this kind o f trip would simply not be possible. Thank you all.

There are cheaper language holidays on the market, but never confuse price with value, as someone once wisely said. Every pound o f your money goes towards providing a first-class learning experience in an enjoyable atmosphere for your children. If the staff can stand it, we are booked for the third week of the Easter holidays in 2001. I don’t know about the children, but I can’t w a it...

Hugh Walkington

Three local children win Mount House Music Scholarship

Three local children will have the opportunity of furthering their musical education through the Mount House School Music Scholarship scheme.

The three were selected for Scholarships from a total o f nineteen children, following auditions held at the School last month.

The award winners are Coraley Medland from Bishopsmead in Tavistock who plays the flute and has just passed Grade 6 with Merit, Tristan Cook from Chillaton who plays the violin and Joel Oliver from Launceston who plays the clarinet.

Under the Scholarship scheme the children will receive free music lessons for a minimum period o f three years, after which the position will be reviewed. Each year, Mount House School hopes to hold an invitation concert at which the recipients o f the award will be invited to perform. The benefactors o f

the awards, which include local Chartered Accountants, Francis Clark, will also be invited to attend and meet the performers.

Brian Armfield, Mount House School’s Director o f Music, said “I am delighted that we have been able to offer the Mount House School Music Scholarships to three pupils who have greatly impressed us with their accomplishments on the instruments so far and their potential musical abilities.”

19

k K SCARPA BERGHAUS ABRIS REGATTA SILVA SUNNTO k kC/D

THE O U TD O O R SHO P

K o u n t r y K it20% off Berghaus Goretex

jackets, fleece, also Scarpa boots.

We have boots to fit

ever^ery shape of foot.

Stay warm, dry, comfortable and safe, from toddler to XXXL.

We also stock waterproofs,

clothing, rucksacks, camping &

caravan accessories, climbing equipment,

and tents.

Stockists for the all-terrain children’s buggies

22-23 West Street, Tavistock 613089

K k h i T E C H V IC T O R IN O X K E E L A R G E L E R T H A W K IN S K K

ThePhysiotherapy

ClinicBridget EndacottGrad. Dip. Phys. M.C.S.P.

Chartered and State Registered Physiotherapist

S ports In ju ries - Back P ain M anagem ent Foot P rob lem s - Em ergency A ppointm ents

44 Plymouth Road, Tavistock, p l i 9 s b u

Telephone: 01822 616900Car p a rk a t rear o f prem ises

CHAMINGS

R e g is tra tio n n o . 8 736 6

(plumbing and heating)

✓ Boiler repairs and replacements✓ Gas installations

✓ Central heating systems✓ Boiler servicing and maintenance

✓ Fault finding on systems✓ Landing safety inspections✓ 24 hour emergency service✓ Bathroom modernisations✓ General plumbing works

Service with care, courtesy, and trust

Call your local established company Fully qualified engineers

Telephone 01822 610222Office at

20 West Street, Tavistock, PL19 8AN

Ski Trip, Easter, to Les Orres, French Alps

>O

CD0)

In a recent gathering o f staff we were trying to establish how many times the school had visited Les Orres - we thought it was six so we are certainly getting to know the resort well, but, inevitably there is a limit to what one can write about for Fanfare every year. Such articles can become somewhat repetitive, not to say, boring, especially as such a trip runs to a regular system and patterns. This is very much a staff perspective, however, and not the children’s point o f view. They all have a fantastic time and enjoy themselves tremendously as do the adults on the party. The day is filled with skiing in the lovely surroundings and there is a very full programme o f entertainment in the evenings.

There were, however, two major differences this year. Firstly, we took the biggest party ever- 46 children and 22 adults - 68 in all. This is actually double our usual number and maybe something to do with the second difference. We travelled by coach all the way to the resort and back. Most o f the party enjoyed this mode of travel though several said they would rather fly especially the taller members o f the group who found the coach slightly cramped. The coach was a double-decker and we had two surprises on its arrival at the front gate. It was driven by ‘Big M ack’ - a huge man whose responsibility it was to load the luggage and drive us to Chievely Services to pick up our two drivers for the trip - Steve and Tony. Big Mack struggled in the minute luggage hold and we only just managed to cram all the luggage in. W hen we go by Snowcoach in 2001 we are going to insist on a trailer as well. (Does this mean that GA can take his mountain Bike? Just think! Les Orres to Embron - Wow!)

The journey out was uneventful though we were late at Dover and GA was kept busy selling drinks from the dispenser and fridge.Due to low bridges on the main route we had to take a diversion to Gap which was tortuous in the extreme though we still managed to reach the resort by mid-afternoon.

Les Orres had only slightly changed. The main path to the bottom o f the main slope had been altered and provided an interesting scramble each morning but everything was much as we had left it! The hotel was unaltered, though it had been redecorated, the chalet looked the same. Lidie and Christian o f Ski Fun Loisiers were as helpful and cheerful as usual and the instructors were identical to the group we had last year though Dominique looked a bit older. We were thus able to establish our routine and safety procedures very quickly and get on with the serious business o f skiing and there was plenty o f snow - too much on some o f the runs.

Four hours a day o f ski school was the norm and all members o f the party quickly gained in confidence and enjoyed good skiing throughout the week. The beginners improved very quickly and became quite competent by the end of the holiday. Next year we shall be doing a full five hours a day o f supervised skiing. Did

we hear a groan from the adults? Do not worry- we refuse to name the adults who played hooky from their ski lessons and this is probably why brandy sales drastically increased at the top cafe.

The Apres Ski provided much fun and entertainment. The first two evenings are nearly always devoted to a Safety Quiz and a Town Trail. The pupils kept to all the safety rules this trip and the Town Trail is a good introduction to finding their way around the resort. Bum boarding was as popular as ever though somewhat hair-raising and we did wonder whether several o f the adults were heading directly to the bars down on the Plaza as they careered down the lower slopes. By far the biggest success was the Disco and Party Night. Fancy Dress was the order o f the day and children, adults and staff made a wonderful effort and there were several magnificent entries for the competition. The dancing and games were popular and the night concluded with a Limbo Competition.

Unfortunately, Freddie, the local doctor, was kept very busy. We had brought a ‘b ig’ bug with us from UK and several children were unwell. The children also suffered one or two minor injuries which needed an x-ray and two members o f the party also had non-serious head injuries. We have decided, however, that all children will wear helmets next year just as a safety precaution. One or two o f the adults did not escape so lightly. Snow conditions were very good and very tempting - they made a speedy recovery.

Leaving the resort slightly early we made a leisurely journey back through France and caught the ferry at Calais by early morning where most members o f the party rushed for an English Breakfast. Though we had a slight delay at Chievely Services we were back at school in good time and looking forward to next year’s trip to Les Orres.

Geoffrey Allen

21

Une Journee a la Frangaise

There is an oft-coined cliche: “If it ain’t broke, don 't fix it.” Thus there were few changes to what had proved a successful and enjoyable formula last year. French Day fell on mardi quatre juillet, causing a certain amount o f comment that the tricolore had te e n hoisted on American Independence Day, but given the assistance offered to the Americans by the French in asserting their independence, the combination o f dates was not unsuitable.

As with last year, the correct tone for the day was set right from the beginning of the day, with grace in French preceding breakfast. This contained croissants (naturellement) and le lard (bacon) which caused some consternation among junior members o f the school when posted on the daily menu board. Once again, we had Assembly in French, singing the hymn, hearing a reading from Leigh Bialick, and reciting the Lord’s Prayer.

During morning lessons, there were several French themes that cropped up. Apologies to all those whose ideas I have failed to mention, but 2YS had an impromptu cafe outside their classroom at breaktime complete with cafe tables, wine bottles and suitable musical accompaniment. In P.E., the Euro 2000 final was re-staged several times, although for some reason I 'Italie seemed to win more often than la France on this occasion. Form 2 worked on reconstructing their versions o f two of Monets most famous works: Waterlilies and Japanese Bridge at Giverny. Various forms contributed to an enormous tricolore flag made up o f the signatures o f French artists. Other junior classes drew dot drawings in the style o f Seurat.

Lunch was enlivened by the first appearance o f La Maison au Mont's own home-produced vintage - a young wine available as Cabernet Sauvignon or Blanc de Blancs. Demand was high, even if it tasted suspiciously like orange squash or blackcurrant juice.

Once again, we resurrected Jeux sans Frontieres during the afternoon. This year the four sets competed in two arenas: la natation in the pool, and I ’athletisme around the track. Many thanks are owed to R.M. and G.W. and G.C. for inventing a series o f hilarious relays that entertained the whole school on a damp and dreary afternoon.

In the pool, there were three relays, culminating in the annual “French meal relay” which had an additional twist this year, in that your correspondents, G.C., K.R. & L.B. actually had to eat the meal once it had arrived from the other end of the pool. It was remarkable how often an item seemed to get from one end o f the pool to the other bone dry, only to get completely soaked just before being placed on our plates. A half baguette, a cracker

>o

<5(/>

0% vol. 75clP R O D IIT D’ANGLETERRF.

LA MAISON AU MONT

2000A P P E L L A T IO N C O N T R O L E E

Blanc de BlancsE le v e en b id o n p la s t iq u c

M is en bouteille it la M aison p a r Da Kocha In dustrie S .A .

Une Journee a la Frangaise

with pate, glasses o f red and white wine, a bottle o f Orangina, a Babybel cheese and a pack o f profiteroles: all had to be consumed by the selfless adults at the end o f the pool. Despite such heroic sacrifice, I am glad to be able to report that none suffered from chlorine poisoning ... but don’t try this at home!

Les Faucons (Hawks) held a narrow lead over les Hiboux (Owls) as the attention shifted to the athletics track. The final game was the classic It's a Knockout extravaganza: a sheet o f plastic liberally soaked with soapy water had been spread over the slope between the pavilion and the running track and the competitors had to walk up this slope carrying water in leaky buckets on their heads. You can picture the scene ... utter carnage. The look o f grim determination on the competitors’ faces as they neared the top, only to fall and slide to the bottom, knocking others over as they went. At the end, les Faucons had won the game and the overall competition, retaining the title they won last year. Felicitations!

This all looked so much fun that certain people who really ought to know better were said to have been seen flying down the slide afterwards. P.R.H-L. apparently was one o f the first, but it must have been untrue as it was his half day. Someone even said that somebody VERY important went down in jacket and tie, carrying an umbrella, but I simply don’t believe them.

All in all, it was a most enjoyable day, and 1 would like to thank all the staff and children who worked so hard to make it a success. A I ’anneeprochaine!

Hugh Walkington

23

Fanfare 1999-2000

TAVISTOCK BUILDING SUPPLIES LTD

Comprehensive range of building materials including

F u ll ra n g e o f c o n s tr u c tio n a l,^ c h e m ic a l s te e lw o rk p ro d u c ts

S a d o lln , R u s tin s , & R o n s e a l w o o d fin is h e s

P a v in g s la b s , b ric k s a n d b lo c k s

In s u la tio n a n d ro o fin g m a te ria ls

P lu m b in g fittin g s

P V C d ra in a g e (a b o v e a n d b e lo w g ro u n d )

E le c tr i c a l w irin g a n d a c c e s s o rie s

B e rg e r, D u lu x , & L e y la n d p a in ts

Q u a lity h a n d to o ls

Jo in e r y p ro d u c ts

P o w e r T o o ls , E L U , B o s c h

L a d d e r s , tre s tle s , & m ixe rs

A ll ty p e s o f g la s s c u t to s ize w h ile yo u w a it

T im b e r, s a w n p la n e d a n d s h e e t m a te ria ls

B a th ro o m s u ite s , & t ile s , & k itc h e n s

Open Monday- SaturdayLarge free car park - delivery service - trade and retail

NEW SERVICES1 hour APS processing

1 hour prints from slides up to 18” x 12”

1 hour print-to-print up to 18” x 12” |

Prints from floppy disc, CD, digital cameras & much more

Cameras, frames, & batteries

Instant passport photos

B&W and colour photocopyin'

Photo restoration

Laminating serviceOriginals must not be larger than 8” x12’

DARTMOORPhotographic

Vest S tree t, Tav is tock, D evon

Telephone: 01822 614045TAVISTOCK (01822) 616558Fax (01822) 616478 Units 3,5,7 Plymouth Road Industrial Estate, Tavistock, PL199Q N

24

“Home of the oldest hot-cross bun in the world.”

Supplier of bread, rolls, and buns to Mount House SchoolTelephone: (01822) 613109- la Pym Street, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 s o w

Proprietor - W E Foster

Sailing

> This activity continues apace under the auspices of the Devon Schools’ Sailingo Association - the Oppie fleet being based

at Mountbatten, while the Toppers still sail " J " ° ff Commercial W harf just along from the

Barbican. Splitting the two groups does JIUJJ cause the occasional problem but generally ■■■■ all runs smoothly, except when an (D outboard breaks down and the instructor

has forgotten his radio! The children are given excellent tuition by first-rate instructors and the Toppers Fleet is now full o f competent and skilful sailors.

Our transport problem has persisted throughout the year and the children have only been able to sail on a regular basis due to the generosity o f parents who have gladly given up their time and vehicles to take them to and from the Wharf. Though many people have helped, we must give a special thank-you to Diana Greene who has helped on a very regular basis.

We sailed throughout the winter months and though there were several bad spells o f weather we have managed an average o f eight sessions a term. It was quite lucky for us that the instructor caught ’flu in February when the weather prevented sailing anyway - they really do organize everything well!

The sailing is structured and based on the Association’s own initial scheme: then the children move on to the RYA Awards. The better sailors are now working on the Senior Awards.

The Summer term was an extremely busy time for everyone. It commenced, unusually, with an RYA Power Boat Course for a whole weekend. Several o f the boys had asked about this during the year and we were finally able to arrange it in early May. Barry, Mike and Bert, the instructors, had expressed some reservations about organizing the Course but any doubts were quickly dispelled by the candidates’ ability to learn, take instructions and drive powerboats. There were no allowances for age or ability. The Course syllabus was strictly adhered to and most o f the boys (alas - no girls!) passed with flying colours. All aspects o f power-boating were covered and everyone progressed in confidence and ability as the weekend continued. Particularly enjoyable was the high speed work-out in the Sound on Sunday morning. This was very thrilling and spectacular.

We competed in the Devon Schools’ Sailing Regatta in June, in a series o f six races over two days. Unfortunately the boys (alas - no girls!) were sailing against Racing Toppers with the new sails and had little chance o f securing the first few places, but they took all the positions from 5th to I Oth. Only two Oppies raced - they came 1st and 2nd!

There are exciting developments for next term. The lake is being dredged, so if

we cannot sail at Plymouth we should be able to sail on the lake instead. The DSSA is keen to keep some o f their boats at School. We are anxious to build up the Oppie Fleet next term and this may be the answer.

Finally - congratulations to Oliver Williams, who won a sailing Scholarship to Milton Abbey School.

Geoffrey Allen

25

T |0)13?5

Junior and Senior Adventure Challenge

>O

<D</>

This continues to flourish throughout the three terms and activities are run on all days o f the week except for Mondays.

Tuesdays are devoted to the Junior Adventure Challenge and a wide range of activities are organized for the First,Second and Third Forms based on their Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, the details o f which can be seen on the separate chart (opposite). This scheme is both instructive and fun and all the children much enjoy their sessions which are supervised by staff and parents. We are always most grateful to this staunch band o f volunteers who come into help. They are a valuable asset to the Junior Challenge and the children much enjoy their support.

During the Summer Term we concentrate on outdoor activities, constantly praying for fine weather. The pupils grass-sledge, play with the parachute, visit places of interest, do incident hikes and enjoy the woods and streams. Occasionally, they can swim in the river.

T W O !

Tuesday activity times are also given over to use o f the Climbing Wall for Juniors and Seniors.

Wednesday is our Sailing Day (see the previous page). The whole afternoon is devoted to this.

Thursday afternoons the 4th Forms work on their Senior Adventure Challenge (see chart opposite) and most o f the sessions are maintained on a practical level. All children complete the Mapping, Survival, Emergency and Camping sections and then have to choose three Adventure options from Caving, Climbing, Canoeing, Hill-Walking, Mountain Biking, Sailing, Orienteering and Skiing.

During the Christmas term on a Thursday the 5th Forms complete a very full St John’s First Aid Course. All the children are qualified in the two senior years.

Friday has tended to expand during the year. During the Winter Terms we have three or four sessions in the Climbing Wall but during the Summer months we can go outside for canoeing, river-running, mountain biking, orienteering and climbing. Some evenings are spent down in the woods lighting fires and practising survival skills.

The weekends are devoted to expeditions and the list is nearly endless:-

Caving at Pridhamsleigh, in the Mendips and in the Brecon Beacons.

Climbing on the local tors, at the Llangorse Centre in the Brecon Beacons, and Cornwall. Canoeing on the School Lake and on other safe water.

Sailing - courses and regattas throughout the summer months.

Orienteering within the School grounds and with the Devon and Cornwall Clubs all over the two counties.

Mountain Biking in Devon, Cornwall and in the Brecon Beacons.

Hill-walking and Letter-boxing on Dartmoor.

Sometimes these activities are combined based on a certain area.

One o f our greatest ‘finds’ o f the year is the Old Bissoe Tramway near Truro.The cycle-way itself is quite interesting but there is brilliant biking on the tips that adjoin the path and Unity Woods also provides many thrills and spills.

Finally then there are the major trips, expeditions and courses. A typical annual programme includes Cycle Course, the Ski Trip, a Summer Half-Term Camp, a Mountain Biking Expedition, a stay on Lundy, and maybe a trip to Spain.

The Junior and Senior Challenge provide a huge variety o f challenges for all the pupils regardless o f age or ability. All they need to do is seize the opportunities.

Geoffrey Allen

26

S u rv iv a l M ap p in gC av ing C a m p in gC lim b in gM o u n ta inB ik ing

C an o e in gS a ilin g H ill W alk ingO r ie n te e rin g

A Year in the Pre-PrepChristmas Term

This was the first September in the history of the Pre-prep that we were not returning to major building developments. It was quite a contrast to begin term without the last minute chaos o f builders and chasing vital .equipment that had not arrived.

We welcomed Pauline Chespy onto the staff. Pauline previously taught at St John’s, Sidmouth. Pauline originates from Wales, and began married life, a new job, and buying a house in the same breath. To her credit all were accomplished happily in her smiley, relaxed style.

As soon as the children were settled-in we launched into the term’s theme which was ‘Ourselves’. This is always a good project to start off the year, when we are getting to know a new group o f children. Soon the Pre-prep began to abound with self-portraits, and skeleton collages. The term’s work was completed in work groups with wonderful names like fidgety fingers, and knobbley knees. ‘Choosing tim e' in the corridor followed the theme too, and a dispensary and surgery sprouted up, where prescriptions were sorted and important appointments were made.Further down the corridor medicine became more advanced, and a lot o f life saving surgery was performed in a very realistic hospital.

Outings this term included Year 2s visit to Plymouth Dome and The Merchant's House. Year 1 spent the day at Plymouth Aquarium with a drama workshop in the afternoon. The Reception Class went all the way to Sorley Tunnel Farm near Kingsbridge, and the Nursery went to Trethome Farm.

Sometimes the excitement and anticipation o f a pending visit almost exceeds the visit itself. Freddie Morris was about to explode by the time the fire brigade visited us, and the children explored the fire engine. It took several Year 2s to man the powerful hoses, which was a great thrill. We all learnt a lot about fire safety and met a fireman in full kit with breathing apparatus, bleepers, flashing lights and a speaking voice like Darth Vader. Some o f us were rather glad to meet this vision in the safety o f the hall, rather than in the middle of the night, in a dark smoke-filled house.

We had hardly all squeezed into the hall for our Harvest Festival than it was time for a terrific bonfire party. This heralded a more daunting event, an OFSTED inspection which we sailed through and was gratifyingly glowing. However, there was no time for the teachers to enjoy a well deserved pause, because we were now on the Christmas countdown. Rehearsals began for The

Multicoloured Music Bus and nativity songs were learnt and carols sung. Art work suddenly involved lots o f glitter and tended to be put away in a secret cupboard. The staff worked late one Friday night, and over the weekend, until the Pre-prep, was transformed into a sparkling wonderland. On Monday morning the children’s faces made it all worthwhile!

We enjoyed two separate Christmas performances this year. The Nursery and Reception classes put on a polished performance o f It s a Baby, which was played with touching professionalism and gravity. Year 1 and 2 were unable to get into the Wortham Hall until the day before our performance, and had an astonishingly bad dress rehearsal. The day arrived and we walked down as if to our execution. Amazingly, the children woke up with the first round o f applause and put their heart and soul into performing the Multicoloured Music Bus. The acrobats whirled, the clowns were a scream. Henry Maxwell- Lyte rose from his sick bed and was a magnificent lion. Next The Bus visited the zoo, Cecily Haywood sang Debra the Zebra as an enchanting solo and looked stunning dressed in stripes. All the animals wore wonderful masks and costumes and played their parts to perfection.

Form 1 ended The Bus journey aptly by visiting Bethlehem, and performed the Nativity beautifully for us.

We ended the term with a rousing Christmas party. The children raised an appetite for their party tea by whacking a very strong pinata, which was reluctant to release its treasure. Father Christmas arrived, and consulted his famous lists of good children and bad children. Everyone heaved a huge sigh o f relief that none o f us were on the black list, and received presents from him in The Grotto. On the last day o f term we went to Plymouth to be entertained at the Theatre Royal and saw a wonderful performance o f the Ugly Duckling by the Orchard Theatre Company. Luckily the bus driver growled that the timing was a bit on the tight side as we whirled down the drive, and I was able to prevent him taking us to The Theatre Royal in Bath!

0>CD

" 0

CD■

" 0T

CD13

Easter TermWe returned to post-millennium

celebrations and enjoyed opening the first page o f the Pre-prep millennium calendar. The children had done all the art work for this. Miss Edmonds was responsible for the presentation and her father for the binding. We had decided to continue the theme of ‘C eleb ra tio n s’ this term, as we could examine all the occasions we celebrate as families, in our religion, and those of other faiths.

Soon the latest new Christmas baby in the pre-prep was doing his rounds, and the children were interviewing Kate Brown to find out how she celebrated Piers’ birth. We all. visited Tavistock Church where Reverend John Rawlings led the children on an exciting treasure hunt of the things you can find in church that are part of religious celebrations. (We did wonder if the man trying to pray at the back o f the church was enjoying the treasure hunt quite as much as the children!)

This term each class presented its own individual assembly to its parents. Year 1 and the reception class told us about their work and Mrs Gabb’s class about the Vikings. All were good, but the Nursery’s story of Chinese New Year will be remembered for ever. We watched Theo as a cockerel with a brown paper bag mask over his head, frozen still, with astonishment!

The cross-country loomed, and Jack Morgan and Johan got into training. Johan skipped around the yard and Jack started running up hills before breakfast. Rarely have we seen such determination to win.The day dawned, the route looked frighteningly long, and the Pre-prep, supporters club cheered itself hoarse.

The Year Is enjoyed a puppet making workshop when they studied ‘Chinese New

29

Year’ and made dancing Chinese dragons with a visiting puppeteer. The Nursery visited Creely Adventure Park and found it undergoing developments and all got rather muddy.

We raised money for Shelter and all joined in the National Swimathon, no matter what level our swimming ability! One particular parent sponsored her son per length, and found him presenting her with an alarmingly large bill! Next we had a visit from the armchair theatre group who worked with Year 2s to create a shadow puppet workshop of the Easter story. In the afternoon they entertained us all with the puppet show Burglar Bill.

Easter assembly began with an Easter Bonnet Parade. Harry Finch’s hat was a particular favourite, with an incubator on top! This year sadly we were unlucky in producing our own Easter chicks. Lizzie tried to save the day and borrow some day old chicks from a farm, but in the end we learnt that sometimes nature has the odd disappointment in store. Mrs Gabb’s class presented the Easter story with shadow puppets. With the addition of some moving Easter songs we noticed one or two specks of dust in the audience’s eyes!The last day of term was for fun. We played games and hoped for an Easter hunt.Luckily the Easter Bunny had arrived home from Durham University the night before. She arrived at the Pre-prep, creeping in the back door like a member of the French Resistance, having spent a disorientating hour in a hot bunny suit, playing a mute rabbit that can't see very well. She was dismayed to find one of the oldest children peering up her nose and saying ‘Hello Pinky, would you like to play British Bulldog?’

A Year in the Pre-Prep (continued)

" 0-n0

i

"U- iCO

u

Summer TermThe Summer term began with

interviews for a new Nursery nurse to join us in September, extending our team of staff to eight, as the school nears its capacity. We were very pleased by the enormous interest in the job, and the calibre o f the girls who applied. We were delighted to appoint Emma Came, and look forward to her joining us next term.

The Summer term’s theme was ‘Journeys' and soon the corridor looked very exciting with a hot air balloon and a jungle scene leading through a waterfall to Bong Tree Island where a pea green boat was anchored and waiting to be taken on adventures.

This term we were lucky to begin dance again having persuaded Katie O ’Brien to teach dance on Thursdays to the older children in the Pre-prep, and the girls in Form 1 and 2. Katie has an impressive list o f London shows to her name and is much involved with the Devonport Playhouse. Those o f you who enjoyed Music o f the Night this year will remember her as one o f the stars o f the show, and will know how heavily involved she is, in producing this mammoth production. The children are very fortunate to be taught by her, and dance was soon one of the highlights o f the week.

For our Summer term trips we had a variety o f experiences. Year 1 went to Buckland Abbey and joined a storyteller who took us back into mediaeval times and brought history alive. In the afternoon the children helped print their own map o f the abbey which has pride o f place in the

30

ytElr \ w ? " t fcveA C j

yifi rfti fa r It'Sr

BCOiSgf . vicLs .... .C

t h® ' / • • J i t \ A , V . ......

•> • • E5C& .-SACa. Sr_h£ •, \'!<! ..W'gfct:..

S'S.; fcNS t'ktS-wt tk £,n v e

t-a t;h<° K 'K K-'1'

th J 1.0-Ci. w«.

PJLfcy-rfi 'MkifLti' .i*>M vi«, v̂ „ivt VAX-K 5CW.V

v/£?V v/vN 6-fytf

(*>!.. toO.at. ' tersfejg.. to pffices

A Year in the Pre-Prep

classroom. We learnt all about Sir Francis Drake and his circumnavigation o f the World in the Golden Hind. Some o f us won’t forget Harry Parker, renaming it the Golden Behind, as his joke disrupted the history lesson! Mrs Gabb took her Year 2 Class to Exeter Museum to learn about the Egyptians. Oenone was laid on a table and prepared for mummification. All the goriest facts were remembered in vivid, numbing detail, and invariably recalled at lunchtime!

The intrepid Reception Class went on an amazing journey themselves, which involved a cold trip on the Dartmouth Ferry, being revived with cups o f cocoa, and a steam train ride to Paignton. The Nursery then set off in a gale to Plymouth Hoe, and wisely decided against a boat trip, and sheltered in the Aquarium instead.

Preparations began for Sports Day, and excitement rose to fever pitch. The day arrived and was wet. The children repeated this exercise the following week until third time lucky Sports Day dawned and was the most perfect day we could have imagined. Everyone enjoyed themselves and tried their hardest. We w on’t forget Freddie, the last man in the relay, running down the track with his bucket o f water, running past his destination, to throw the bucket’s contents over a crowd o f spectators. The ensuing cloud o f confetti gained roars of laughter. Nor will we forget ‘The Dress the Teachers Race’ where Mrs Gabb was dressed as an impressive witch and Mrs MacDougall a clown, though she showed a nice turn o f speed, and was first to finish!

The fathers were very good sports and ran in ‘A Dressing up as a Woman Race’, for all our enjoyment! The mothers excelled at the Egg and Spoon. The finale

was a balloon launch where every child let a balloon free. To our delight six were returned to us from as far afield as Axminster and Sherborne.

The term’s weather continued to be a bit unpredictable with a blustery school photograph, and action replay for Athletics Day. The Year 1 s had a boat race, and tested their homemade boats in the stream down in the backwoods. One or two children returned rather wet from this experience. We also had a cycling day to learn road safety skills, where Tom Canning demonstrated death defying stunts, and MrsiChespy and I had an interesting time on a tandem.

Before we knew it, it was our Leavers’ Assembly in the Wortham Hall. We said goodbye to the Founder Members of the Pre-prep who have been with us since we began, four years ago, in Collingwood. These children were presented with an engraved glass. They entertained us with music and dances from Joseph. We entertained them with the Owl and the Pussycat; a wonderful maypole dance by the Nursery; and a play written by Sophie in reception, called Sophie’s Box.

The following day we ended the year with the Teddy Bears’ Picnic. The sun peeked through at the children sitting in a magic ring with their teddy bears. It particularly seemed to shine on our Founder Members who go forward, with four years’ o f happy experiences in the Pre-prep, to a wonderful future at Mount House.

Bids Morgan

Whatever your requirements, give us a call or come and see our

GARDEN MACHINERY SHOWROOM

The Piano CentreTavistock

New & Secondhand PianosTuning & Full Restoration Service

Bridge House 142-148 Plymouth Road

TavistockTelephone: (01822) 610633

Proprietor: A.K. White

MOT TESTING STATIONSERVICE - REPAIRSon all types of cars and vans

USED CARSfor sale

RECOVERYservice

Courteous service at all times

BISHOP & TURNBULLAutomobile and Electrical Engineers - Electronic Tuning

P.D. & B J. Bishop, Pixon Lane Garage, Tavistock, p l i9 9 a z

m s.w

machinery

CUB CADET YARDMAN

LAWNFLITEPetrol mowers from

inc VAT

Grass cutting tractors

from £999 inc VAT

V( j/a r /e & < f / e e o m * w / i W m e v

/ ^Tcw/k/ocA

Incorporating The Wine Warehouse

Wholesale W ine M erchant

toThe Trade

andPublic

Open daily, and

Saturday 10am-2pm

Telephone (01822) 616272

Fax(01822) 617094

U n it 11, P ly m o u th R o a d In d u s tr ia l E sta te T avistock , D ev o n , PL19 9QN

Tavistock (01822) 612570 Fax 612595

Impressions o f the Form 2 visit to the Tate Gallery, St Ives

‘I was really excited because we were going to miss work. I thought it was excellent because the sun was shining. The gallery was excellent and it was really big. I heard that it was a gas station.’ James Lewis

‘My favourite pieces are the eclipse pieces because they were full o f colour. I learnt how it must have been when Alfred Wallis was alive.’Christopher Morris

‘I found that it was a nice day going down to the beach and going around the town and looking at the art.’ Sam Morgan

‘I learnt that people are nasty because they pretend to be a lighthouse and make ships crash.’ Richard Dawson

‘Most o f the paintings that I saw were very impressive but the shape mobile was excellent. We learnt how pictures are different to each other.’Jo Hijazi

‘I had great fun in St Ives especially on the town trip because o f the drawing I did o f the church on the hill. My favourite picture was the Patrick Heron window. I learnt about the ship that sunk and you can still see the massive ship’s boiler in the sea. The trip helped me understand the colours that Alfred Wallis used. ’ Henry Manning

‘On the St Ives trip we went for a walk around the town. We got to see where Alfred Wallis lived. After we had got some lunch we went into the Tate Gallery. We saw a big window with pictures on it. There were lots o f other pictures. I think the Tate Gallery was excellent. I think it helped me because we got to see the painting that Alfred Wallis did, I found it fascinating.’ Lucy Batchelor

Lottie Morse

Drawing on DartmoorIn the Autumn Term, armed with sketch-books and water­

colour sets, the third Year used the local Dartmoor Landscape as inspiration for print-making. Back in the classroom they produced some superb prints to remember their day.

Lottie Morse

Art & Literature

a>dofCD

I How Was It For You?

Some fourth year thoughts on the start o f the new millennium. (Names have been omitted to avoid litigation).

.. .just as the clock struck twelve, I looked down on the Sydney harbour and the sky lit up with fireworks.

.. .well, to be quite honest I went to bed at half past eight.

... we had a window overlooking the street, and my younger cousin was very interested in the people kissing. One couple had been smooching for forty-eight minutes!

.. .suddenly a streaker ran down the road and he was stark naked even without any shoes or socks on!

.. .we painted our nails and tattooed our arms. I went for a discreet look, bright pink, fluorescent yellow and silver.

.. .the next day we all had headaches.Mum was a dodgy driver all day.

... we went to the village church to hear the bells chiming midnight. Typically my father brought some Scotch whisky.

.. .Daddy climbed up onto the beam!

.. .when the fireworks eventually came they were very disappointing. The ones on Plymouth Hoe started late.

.. .when the Millennium moment came I shouted as loud as I could and a goat shouted back, which was quite funny.

... we went out on the balcony and threw bangers on the street below, and we used party foghorns to make a noise so no- one could get to sleep on New Year’s Eve.

.. .so he said to pour petrol on the fireworks, and Daddy did.

.. .for the big moment, we lit our Millennium candle and I said the prayer.

The Sea

The sea can be tranquil, still and smooth.Broken by the faintest groove.It shines like gold in summer’s sun And seems quite harmless to everyone.Then comes lightning, thunder and rain,The sea will crash and smash again And bring boats to their impending doom.Down in the dark everlasting gloom.I ’ve lived by the sea for all my days.I know it changes in many ways.I ’ve seen it calm, I ’ve seen it mild,But best o f all I ’ve seen it wild.

Alick Mildmav- WhiteJack Rangeley

5, 4, 3, 2, 1

“Five minutes left,” shouted the referee. As these words hit me, I was almost sick, the tension was mounting. We had had an unbeaten season, and this was our last game. We were playing Wolborough Hill and were losing by two points, as the try we had just scored was not converted. I felt so nervous but I knew nervous tensions would not win games.We had to obtain more points on the board very soon.

The minutes were counting down and there were four left. At the next scrum that we won, our fly-half, John booted it down field to their twenty two, and it bounced into touch. They took a quick throw in and their full back drove into our forwards. Somehow, brilliantly, the forwards managed to pinch the ball and we spun it out in the backs, but each time we tried to break through their line, they drove us back. I was feeling desperate now. It also showed on the faces o f the rest o f our team.

“Come on boys,” shouted our coach. “Only three minutes left!”

At the next ruck, their forwards were just too strong, and they won the ball, which was a great shame, as we were in a good attacking position, and the fly-half hoofed it up to the half-way line. I was feeling overwhelmed, but inside me, I knew that we were the better side and that we could do it.

What seemed like hours later, but in fact was only one minute later, the crowd o f parents and kids on the touchline, grew louder by cheering us on. It put more belief in us. Their defence could not hold out for much longer. Now everyone, including us, believed we could win. The motivation that we had inside us was incredible. Every time there was a ruck or a scrum, the forwards drove like animals and our backs kept pounding into the opposition. Each time either one o f us received the ball, we felt a kind of surge, and ran as fast as we could to slice through them.

“Last minute,” shouted the referee. Now the heat was on. We had worked really hard to achieve a position inside their twenty-two, and we had been awarded a scrum under the posts. What could we do? We were too tired to break through their line, so I whispered to John, who was an excellent kicker, “Drop goal!” He nodded and told Stuart the scrum half. As soon as Stuart received the ball, he fired it to John, who dropped and kicked. The suspense was incredible as the ball floated towards the posts, and as it just squeezed inside the post the noise from the people around us was deafening. The whole team jum ped into the air, as the whistle blew for full time. We had won!!

Seamus Crawford

Emma Kennedy

The Arctic SealThe seal is a graceful creature,And is beyond human knowing The streamlined body, silk-like, smooth Can elude the cold wind if blowing.Their skin is sleek but tough And can keep the bite o f the wind away It can withstand their conflicts with others And keep the cruel waters at bay.Ice giants float in the land o f the seal And there is power more ferocious than thunder And even if they look small from above There is bound to be a greater mass under.Ice covers all in the land o f the seal And the weather is bitter and unforgiving.It is hard to believe that one can live here When in fact here thousands are living.

Lloyd Nail

Elsie Newman

Charlotte’s Web“ Are you OK up there in your web,

Charlotte?” asked Wilbur.“I ’m OK up here in my web but it is a

bit draughty,” replied Charlotte.“Please can you come down and play

with me?” asked Wilbur.“All right but only if we can play ‘Trap

the Fly’,” said Charlotte.“How do you play ‘Trap the Fly’ ?”

asked Wilbur.“It’s simple,” said Charlotte. “The first

one to trap the fly is the winner”.“OK,” said Wilbur eagerly, “Let’s

begin”.“On your marks, get set and GO!!”

shouted Charlotte.“Here one comes,” called Wilbur. “A

nice, fat, juicy fly”.Alex Jones

A Mist o f Tears

A mist o f tears filled my eyes. I couldn’t believe what my mum was telling me. My grandmother might not make it through the night. Life was so unfair. We were driving to the hospital where she was. The mobile phone began to ring. I grabbed it praying we w eren’t too late. It was my dad, he told us he was about to go up to see her. We were so relieved that everything was all right.

The drive to the hospital was long and boring and we were glad to see the hospital looming in front o f us. We were there at last. We entered quickly and dashed up to the floor where she was. 1 couldn't believe my eyes when I saw her. She was unconscious. I thought I was in a nightmare that I couldn't break out of.

The night was quiet and dull. My aunt was due to come in any time. I was watching the monitor with interest; so tired but I tried to stay awake. M um and dad sat watching grandmother. Slowly everything blurred and I fell asleep. This didn’t last more than a couple o f hours as my aunt and uncle arrived. There was a spare ward next door which we were allowed to sleep in.

I was taken there by my mum but as we were leaving my grandmother came round slightly. A spring o f hope rushed through me and I came back quickly as I heard her dazed voice crying out. A nurse ran over and gave her a bit o f water to drink. I walked away. All my hopes were dashed because I realised she would never become well again.

The night passed quickly after that and soon it was morning. Dad was going home to bring me some clean clothes as I felt very dirty and sticky. We all walked to breakfast without him as he was having his at home. Breakfast was in the hospital canteen. It turned out to be a very funny and embarrassing meal as I accidentally broke the coffee and tea machine. When breakfast was finished, we ascended to the ward where dad was. I had to change and when I did I felt happier. W hen I returned to the ward my other uncle arrived and sat next to my mum.The morning slowly came and departed and so did lunchtime. The doctor was going to talk to us at three o ’clock. We prepared for what the doctor was going to say. Ushered into a small room, we sat around in a circle. The doctor explained everything and at the end said my grandmother would probably live no more than

the weekend. I was devastated. There was nothing anyone could do for her. We walked slowly back to the ward. We were full o f tears and gloom. She was going to be moved to a private bedroom.

I had dinner a couple o f hours later with my aunt and uncle. My mum and dad and uncle had waited for his sons and wife who were due to arrive. W hen supper was over we traipsed up to the room where she had been moved into. My mum and dad and the others had obviously gone to supper and only my aunt stayed. We sat waiting quietly by the limp figure in the bed. I was deep in thought.

A laugh brought me out o f my thoughts. Everyone had returned and were taking up seats around the bed. My mum was by her head holding her hand. Every so often mum checked her pulse. Suddenly my mum stood up and we became silent. Then she kissed her and said we had better say goodbye as she didn 't have a pulse. We all said our farewells and we began to cry. We were all devastated. A doctor came in to ascertain the time of death. It was awful.

Without warning I became hysterical. I couldn’t believe what was happening. I was pulled away to a little sitting room where the rest o f the family had gone to. Mum had stayed with the doctor. Slowly and with sad hearts we returned to the small room where we collected all her things to take home. Life was so unfair. I couldn’t understand why this had to happen to me. Looking out the window, I saw lots o f cars going about their daily routine. This made me think. My family were the only people grieving while life everywhere else was going on.

As we departed, I looked for the last time at my grandmother. My eyes were so misty I couldn’t see. A hand led me away from the sad room and the figure o f my grandmother I would never see again in life, but I can still look back on the things she did with me and told me. This means I can never forget her even though she’s gone. Those were my thoughts as I climbed into the car. If only she w asn’t dead.

I took one last look at the hospital as we drove round a com er and then it was out o f sight. The drive home was slow and painful and as our house came into view with it came a mist o f tears.

Rachael Kimber

Tristan Coulshaw

35

Art & Literature

Q>DS'CD

“I is Pants at English ”A short essay, for Mr Canning

Despite my protestations, Mr Canning believes that I am more than competent in English. This begs the question, “What is English?” Should road signs read “Drive Slow” or “Drive Slowly”? Which is grammatically correct: “They don’t have none” or “They don’t have any”? Given “books” as the plural o f “book” and “they” as the plural o f “she” or “he” what is wrong • with “y ’all” and “yous” as plurals o f “you”? Who decides w hat’s wrong in language anyway? and who put “ain’t” in the dictionary? Is English going to the dogs? What is all the fuss about?

The English Language often has alternative expressions for the same thing (car and auto) and a given word can carry different senses (river bank vs. saving bank) or function as different parts o f speech (to steal - verb ; a steal - noun). It would appear that English adapts to suit various situations and reflects the social identities o f its speakers. Unlike the French we do not have “The Academy” to keep our language pure, so lexicographers must record all words that are in use - hence “ain’t” gets an entry.Living languages must change, must adapt, must grow. Whether change is good or bad is not the question, for change is inevitable. The only languages no longer in flux are those no longer in use.

It is therefore up to people such as I/me to see that our language continues in its ever changing role so perhaps I ain’t pants at English after all! (Thank you fo r the guiding light - GC.)

Edward Jaquiery, assisted by PHamilton-Leggett

Memories o f the Eclipse by 2 ys

On 11 August, 1999 the Eclipse, which started near America, passed through England. It happened because the Moon blocked out the Sun’s rays which light up the Earth. That morning a lot o f strange things happened. Nocturnal animals came out o f their burrows thinking it was night time. The Eclipse finally ended in India. I hope that I ’m alive to see the next Eclipse in 70 years or so. Nick Dashfield

I watched the Eclipse on television. It happened on 11 August, 1999. The sky went dark and it was very cold. The Eclipse happened because the Moon went in front o f the Sun and blocked out the sunlight. Isaac Jay

At 11 am on 11 August, 1999 the Eclipse took place. An Eclipse is when the Moon gets in the way o f the Sun and makes a shadow on the Earth. It went very dark and all the nocturnal animals came out o f their burrows. The Eclipse only lasted one hour before it moved on. It started near America and ended in India.

Gemma lnsley

LunchThe best ever food at

Mount House is Roasts. Roast Chicken is really nice because they have crunchy potatoes and the meat is nice and tender and you can’t have a nice roast without jelly-jam.

Ian HargreavesJames Killingbeck

Art & Literature

Hope o f Rain

Seeing a cloudy starlit sky above A night to hope in the form o f rain A cloud will weep and soak the earth again A night to secure a delicate love.For nature rain will summon life from where A lifeless, endless desert used to be Moistness will stop a hot, desolate glare A lushness freely given by destiny.The water will bring long awaited content To those who survived, this life will not die But will stay forever in plentiful supply.Death, brought by predators, the only

supplement So. life progresses with thanks to the sky An amazing circle that is not to deny.

Alexander Nail

Sweet LoveAlex Tobey

If only I could keep away from you.You are my forbidden sweet.Not a sour thing that makes me pucker.You soothe me,Coating my mouth with thick affection. Chocolate.My heart races as I inhale Bittersweet, rich joy.Slowly I unwrap the bar,I close my eyes and breathe.My spots resent my blind addiction.My sticky hands wreck my work.You are my secret sweet.Only second class sweets are found at tuck. Candy for children,I am an adult.Gummy bears and jelly bears bore.Only chocolate.Smuggled into school in boots and hidden

pockets.My forbidden sweet,Chocolate.To end my day with perfect pleasure.Melting scrumptious hidden treasure.

Leigh Bialick

Rollo Brooke

Mount House SchoolFrom my turning day, span wildly Through childhood into adulthood. Reflections, like a shattered mirror,Showed only faint glimpses o f past

memories.Now, taking the quantum leap,Suspended by ever watching eyes,I am shepherded, like a stupid lamb,Into a fearful, grown-up sheep.I love the friendliness and atmosphere, Breathed upon me from wise mouths, Kindling my skin and my many memories O f re-lived fun and food so sweet.To take this from me is like,Trying to drain the 7 seas,The memories o f this place will stay,iHere, in my heart, forever more.

P a d d y P ea rso n

The Small Black BoxI was on holiday in The Maldives, a

beautiful group of islands in the Indian Ocean. On the desk in our villa was a leaflet showing all the activities on offer. We decided to go snorkelling. We went to have a drink at the bar before the trip, and there we met a very nice waiter called Mamoon, who served us drinks. Lizzie and I had a ‘club delight’, a cocktail. We soon had to leave for the snorkelling trip.

We boarded a glass-bottomed boat. We found that Mamoon was on board, and to pass the time I had a pleasant conversation. During this, his eyes seemed to wander to something different in sight. He said, “Look Tom.” I stared and saw a dolphin gliding through the air. Suddenly the engine stopped. “That must mean that w e’re there,”I shouted.

Because o f the scorching heat I was the first into the cool, clear water and so was Mamoon. I said to him, “I ’m going to the bottom.”

It was beautiful. It was like an underwater paradise, a sacred shrine. I stared, and then something caught my eye, a small, rusted black iron box. I took it up to the surface. I told Mamoon. He said, “Come up to the boat and we will examine it.”

We opened the box. Inside was a necklace with a blue sapphire and gold carvings. We gazed in amazement, in a way with fear, at this treasure o f the ocean. It was a locket containing two blurred photos and some writing.

The boat engine roared and chugged. Mum and Dad said, “Come on, time to go.” We threw the black box swiftly into its oceanic shrine and left. I have had memories o f it ever since.

Then one morning a parcel arrived for me. I opened it and the black box and golden necklace lay there, and a poorly written note read,

Dear Tom,Here is the treasure we fou n d last year. /

have sent it to you because archaeologists have come and I hope you can keep it safe.

Mamoon.I have kept it ever since on my

mantelpiece.Tom Painter

Andrei Koranteng

Art & Literature

£UDCD

A Strange Taleo

I have not told this story to many people. .It is a strange story and not many people would believe it.

It all started when, on one mild summer evening in the middle o f August, I was taking a stroll along the Bay o f Boats, a beach near our village, when in the dusky twilight I saw a small figure standing strangely in the waves while small rapids softly licked her ankles. This girl’s hair was o f a creamy palomino colour distinguished by soft wavy curls. Sandy- coloured skin graced her slim figure perfectly while she wore a tattered yellow robe. But what was the language she was speaking? It was as if she was talking to the whales.

The next day after school, I went down to the beach to see if I could spot the strange child again. I was looking for about half an hour when suddenly I saw her sitting in a sun-filled rockpool with a pretty wreath o f seaweed attached to her small head. She was playing a wooden whistle which exuded a beautiful melody to some silky grey-spotted seals. The girl was about ten feet away from me, and I sprinted and leant down and touched the silky cream hair with my right hand. My body went ice cold and I nearly fainted. It was as if someone had put a block o f ice straight down the back o f my shirt.

Next morning Grandfather was sitting on the sofa smoking. I stopped in my tracks and went over to him. "Grandfather,” I said, “I saw this girl down by the bay. She was singing to the whales, playing tunes to the seals and wearing wreaths o f seaweed. Who is she?”

“Well, I cannot think o f anyone it might be except Lily," Grandfather replied.

"W ho’s she?” I asked with interest."The daughter o f the sea god, Poseidon.

She was brought up by the dolphins, deadly to any bare skin that should make contact with her.”

O f course I did not believe this, but next morning when I woke up, my right hand felt numb. I looked and felt the hand. It was ice cold, blue and shrivelled.

Amelia Townsend

James Edwards

Christian Lowe

Two French ViewsI find France a wonderful country. If I

was better at their complicated language, I might consider living there. I have been over to France four or five times in my life and each and every time the weather has been wonderful. I remember one time when it was so hot that you could not walk along the sand in bare feet, otherwise they would get burned.

The French also have wonderful food and a graceful way of eating it. With a daily diet o f bread, good cheeses, wines, salads, meat and impeccable table manners, it is so much more inviting than the English way whereby we just stuff our fatty foods down our mouths as fast as possible.

France the country is almost a paradise, with small villages dotted around rolling fields and huge orchards full o f fruit and vineyards with the grapes soaking up the sun. The people who live in this country are extremely pleasant and I am not surprised because so is their homeland.

Paddy Pearson

I think that France is a great place to visit. Last year I went twice to France - on The French Trip and biking with my family and friends.

I love the French countryside because it is so vast and open and I enjoyed many of the French specialities. We visited all over The Dordogne Valley, visiting the castles and all the spectacular views included in our guide book.

The French are different from us as their life style and habits are different. As well as moving into the 21st century, they have now managed to preserve their old style o f doing things. They are very passionate about their culture and still play petanque in the day and still close all shops at one to go to have lunch.

Lloyd Nail

38

Magical Spots

I think that my special place is probably my grandmother and grandfather’s drawing room. I feel that it is really magical because o f the effort they put into it to make it nice when we come to stay.

My grandmother fluffs up the pillows, dusts and hoovers even when it is already looking fine. She only does it because she really cares. My grandparents live in a cosy, warm cottage and the drawing room connects with the dining room. It is one very long room.

I think that I also love the room because o f her fabulous food. She is an excellent cook which is lovely because whenever we stay there she always has a tremendous meal ready for us.

Another reason why I like it is because she stands with her arms opened wide, in the doorway, to welcome us into her home. She also places handfuls o f sweets and lots of money into our hands because she is so generous.

My garden is also special. There is a secretive spot which is very secluded because it is cut off from the rest of the garden by a large group of trees. It is lovely for many reasons.

Firstly it is a sun-spot which means no wind can make it cold and the sun will always warm the ground up so I can lie in a lovely area. I think this place is better than my bedroom because out here I can find - as well as some space to get away from my brother and sister - peace and tranquillity. In my bedroom I can only find space and not silence.

Secondly when my room is no good to have a lie-down in or to go to when I am feeling upset because of the noise, the secret spot is perfect to go to when I am unhappy.It is also a really good place to go to when I am happy because I can just relax.

P ersephone Johnstone-B urt

Harry Young-Jamieson

Art & Literature

The Small Black Box

I was staying with my grandparents and was just going to the garden shed to get the hoe when I saw a little black box perched on the shelf. I reached up to get it. When I touched it I felt a shiver run uncomfortably through my body. I took it and ran into the house. I went to my room. The box was made o f ebony with patterns set into it made of ivory. 1 looked at it spellbound. It was beautiful.

Suddenly the bell for supper was rung and I was wakened from my trance. 1 went downstairs and ate my supper, my grandparents chatting away about gardening. It was not until coffee and After Eights that I spoke about the box. I asked my grandad, “Do you know o f a black box in the garden shed?”

My grandfather shifted in his chair uneasily and my grandma gasped. “Yes, I do Antonia, it has ivory on it.”

“Yes, yes, tell me about it Grandad, please, I ’ve found it!”“It has magic within it,” said my grandad.“And not nice magic at that,” broke in Grandma.“It has a curse upon it and you must never open it. Now let’s speak no more o f it.”In bed I took the box in my hands and opened it. The whole room fell suddenly pitch

black and freezing. Only the orange glow from a street lamp could be seen flickering. It was very, very cold.

Next morning when I woke up, I looked outside and found there was frost everywhere. I got up and went downstairs. My grandparents were already there.

“Every green plant has been killed in the frost,” sighed my grandad solemnly.“And it’s July,” butted in Grandma.“Get the box and bring it down here,” my grandfather whispered.I ran up to get the box. I tried to shut it but it was stiff. Grandad said, “Get a hair from

your head and a bead from your necklace and put them inside. Then you can shut it.” I did, and then I ran out o f the garden and slipped quietly into the neighbour’s garden and hid the box in a hole in the nearest tree.

Olivia Haywood

Memories o f DeathThe darkness made my head restlessly turn.The Shiny stardust whirled and whirled shamefully. Memories changed to make tears rain within me;But this gnawed into my mind mournfully I didn’t know how this would end but I knew Only how it began when I felt the burn,As the car wounded me, and the pain grew,Which left me dazed so my world was empty.This was how I was left here to lie,Out o f consciousness I slip many a time.My eyes fluctuated when I tried to sleep.Now tiring, though, my mouth quietly mimes,Phrases o f sorrow, playing on my mind;And now relaxation, all pain drifting high Bright light around me. Leaving earth behind,Just the Angels as those below weep.

Andrew MacDougallH.L.

H.L. is a Science teacher. He is funny and smiley.H.L.has a dog called Sam. The thing I like about H.L. is that he cares. H.L.’s Lab is big and is filled with things like teddies and skulls. You name something and he has got it. At the back o f his lab he has a store room which we call Aladdin’s cave.

H.L. is not fat but plump in his own way. Some times I think H.L can never get angry,I can’t wait to be taught by him. H.L. is the best teacher in the world.

Lom a Studholme

Elsie Newman

Peter Elliott

HolidaysThe bad thing about

holidays is sometimes you get bored.

The good thing about holidays is you get a rest. You can also if you want work at home.

' The bad thing is when you come back from holidays the staff have to remind you about everything.

Lucy ManningSophie Zajicek

39

Paddy Pearson

Art & Literature

I like Art because it is fun and constructive. I like it when you have just finished your picture or whatever you have made and it looks really good and you feel pleased with yourself. The only thing I’m not very good at is drawing normal people that you see every day. I’m not very good at drawing horses though I really enjoy drawing lizards and dragons and fantasy things because I have quite a good imagination. I enjoy imaginating like dinosaurs coming back again and living on earth with humans or finding out that a dragon lives under the school and then I have an idea to draw it!

James Harbord

40

Fanfare 1999-2000

Antonia Fulton

42 _______________________________________________________________

William Day-Robinson Tiggy Johnstone-Bn

George Goldbel

Brittany Heal

Nathaniel Blackwood

Eleanor Durant

Anika Heale

Fanfare 1999-2000

>T

Antonia Fulton

Robbie Campbell

James Harris

Sophie Liddell-Grainger

Sam Jenks

William Newman

William Day-Robinson

Richard Yendle

Rollo Brooke

Ella Toynton

India Jacques John Williams Persephone Johnstone-Burt

44

Art & Literature

The Hate o f SchoolingIntroductory note: this poem was set as an exercise, using only seven letters as start-letters fo r each word.

Exams are saddening and so exhilarating They are so hard and ever so tiring English, Science and History are the hardest Everyone at scholarships -scholarshipping Also arithmetic - adding and taking As well as algebra - so extremely stupid Trigonometry - so, so stupid Adding two to three after eight is subtracted I simply hate Turkish - so exhausting Taught the supines, tripines and the adverbs Habito this and habeo that Adjectives agree - also the irregular surds Above all I hate inscribing excellent tales So tedious having a-c structures to rhyme And syllable thingies - eight to ten, two to three Trying to shape taxis to rhyme with slime.

David Palmer

Seamus Crawford

A PoemIt seems like a dream.Out in the garden todayThe trees which were once so green,Are so rich with colour; it seems like May.The Oak tree has a Beautiful warm glow,There is the sun giving off so much light.All the leaves are starting to show The sun shines through the leaves, making them

bright.The large, chestnut trees Are all russet and brown,And everywhere all the leaves One by one flutter down.As the evening sun shines through the leaves The light begins to fade,But soon it will be night again And nothing will have changed.

Persephone Johnstone-Burt

Julia Toynton

Love Poem

Alone at last my heart is at peace,Free from pain and sorrow,Nobody can hurt me now I am solitary.No nervous waiting.To find out if, or why Look!Love is lying on the floor A painful memory.Love is left, slowly fading,Roses withered on the floor.Do I really deserve this torture?Surely such love could never last forever?Love is a demanding feeling.Maybe a drop of blood could sustain roses,But not relationships.Love is hell.Every aspect o f love is hell.And yet.Still I love and wait’for happy days.One can dream!Alone.Love is the essence o f life, but,For it we die.

Lizzie Painter

Sophie Zajicek

A Grim PaperI wrote this poem as a reminder as to what not to do in Common-Entrance.

“Your CE paper,” my grim French teacher said I opened it and dreamed horrible grades About grief, strife and tears. My eyes shone I tried to remember, it was fading,Faster and faster. My mind blank, then I knew.That if I ’d learnt to pass, this I knewAnd then I thought I knew, then it was gone.I was 3 years past ten when I dug my grave I just panicked and the brain was taut.In Common-Entrance when my worst dread

came.My Braincells flew as I quietly thought Around the problem paper on the Desk It was Impossible. All I should have Done came back to me. Somewhere the bell Rang, like a gunshot, fainted onto the table.

Harry Young-Jamieson

Freddie Burwell

The FoxThe fox awakens lying in its lair W hilst outside the wind blows in the cold

evening air Its ears prick up and its eyes become bright And it surfaces from its lair into the dark cloudy

night.Its sharp white teeth are the key To secure its killing majesty.Although now these features could go to wasteBecause tonight poultry is within its tasteBut this will be no easy killBecause the farmer has the skillTo kill the fox with one prominent blowAnd so for now it must lie lowAnd so later on the mission will beginIts incentive, the dinner it hopes to win.It wanders silently across the farmyard But slips, for the ground is too hard.The farmer awakes, with him his gun And looks for the culprit the fox must run.The farmer starts to fire and fire again The fox is almost safe, but suddenly, then A well-aimed bullet hits his head.And all was for nothing, the fox is dead.

Lloyd Nail

J \ ,

Sherborne SchoolSherborne, Dorset, DT9 3AP.

'Sherborne offers the best o f both worlds.'

All the advantages of single-sex teaching with many of the benefits of co-education through strong links with the neighbouring girls' schools.

'Excellent Academic, Music, Art, Drama, Technology, Careers and Sports Departments. Impressive facilities and boarding accommodation, w ith a great em phasis on pastoral care'

For details of all Academic, Music, Art, and All-Rounder Awards, or to arrange a visit, please contact the Registrar, Michael Cleaver.

Telephone: 01935 813242 Fax: 01935 817511I

E-mail: enquiries@ sherborne.cix.co.uk Internet: h ttp ://w w w .cix .co .uk/~sherborne

Registered Charity Number 306219

\ r

Established 1962

P&J HOWELLFam ily Butcher

The Pannier Market, Tavistock Telephone 612293, or 614453

Proud suppliers to many catering establishments = F re e re fr ig e ra te d d e liv e ry =

W e are large enough to cope, small enough to care.

Paddy Pearson

ChristmasI woke up after hearing my bedroom door slam shut at about four o ’elock in the morning. I did

not even have to think, I knew it was Christmas morning! 1 dived towards my red and white stocking and wrenched open a few small presents. There was a pot o f humbugs and a fake, black bug. This was all that 1 needed for my plan.

My two sisters, Veryan and Morwenna, are both sometimes extremely annoying but now I had the chance to gain my revenge!! I tiptoed into their bedroom with the fake bug and placed it right in Veryan's hair. This was a fine plan I told m yself as I climbed into my comfortable, warm bed.

I was awakened by a high pitched scream which a steam train would have been proud to make. They had obviously seen the bug.

Later on in the morning at about eight o ’clock my parents woke up. All three o f us children carried our stockings into their bedroom. Veryan immediately told them about my trick. I was annoyed by this but since it was Christmas I was still happy until my dad shouted at me really loudly.

“George is this true?”“Yes, but it was a Christmas joke, just chill out, it is Christmas,” I said.I could tell that this trick o f mine was not as good as it was planned. My dad seized my stocking

saying how selfish and ignorant I was. Although it was Christmas I was still in loads o f trouble! Not only did they take my stocking presents but also my presents from under the Christmas tree. I deserved perhaps a small punishment but not a massive one. I was sent to my room and told not to come out until tomorrow breakfast. Also I would not have any food!

I was crying my eyes out just wishing that I could go back in time. I was given no lunch so I was starving. I could smell turkey, roast potatoes, vegetables and gravy cooking then 1 realised I could not go to our Christmas party!

At about five o ’clock I needed some food because I was so hungry. I slipped down the stairs really quietly when I met my dog, Milly. She was acting odd and my cat was also acting

" uncharacteristically. I ran into our kitchen to collect some food.“Happy Christmas,” everyone there in my family said.I was in shock! We all settled down to supper, this was lovely considering 1 had had no other

food, except then.Everybody enjoyed that Christmas but me most o f all because 1 was given all o f my presents

back, and a few extra!!!George Armstrong

My Grandad’s Death

My grandad's death was the saddest and loneliest day o f my life so far. It shook me and my family very much even though it was not a great surprise. It happened in the holidays about two days after my family and I had come back from ski-ing.

My grandad had been at death’s door for some time now, continually becoming ill, mostly recovering, but this one time he seemed to almost be dead already. I saw him the day before his death and he looked ghastly. His eyes were slits and were sunken back into his misty grey-coloured face. He was very thin and the skin was stretched over his cheek bones, making his face look like a skull. He w asn’t talking but tried to feebly smile and wink at me, like he so often did not so long ago. I wanted to go as I felt uneasy, so I said goodbye and promised to come back the next day. It had shocked me so much to see him like that, that I thought there might not be a next day.

The following day was a Saturday and I woke up early and tried to get to sleep but it was no use. So I hauled m yself out o f bed and traipsed downstairs to make m yself some breakfast. It was my father who found me first and I knew by the look on his face that something was terribly wrong. He tried to, in the softest possible way, tell me that my grandad had died but I knew even before he had finished what he was trying to say, and I rushed upstairs to change, then ran down to my grandma’s house, in through the door, up the stairs and stopped outside the bedroom. Gathering myself together, I opened the door. Inside were assembled my mum, my cousins, aunt and uncle, and in the centre was my grandma standing next to my grandad’s bed with tears in her eyes, but she managed a smile when she saw me.

My grandad was much the same as before except his eyes were shut and all expressions of life were gone from his face. It was horrible. I stayed there for ten minutes, then my grandma thanked me for coming, kissed me and said I needn’t stay. So I left and as soon as I left the house I ran as fast as I could down to the beach where I could clear my head.

My thoughts on the beach were a mixture between good and bad. Thoughts like ‘I would never see him again' and ‘I wasn’t able to say goodbye’ but then I thought at least he was happier now; now that he was out o f his pain.He died in his sleep, the nicest way possible, what better could 1 wish for him? I was the only person on the beach and that helped as I wanted to be alone. Even though I felt more lonely than ever before in my entire life, it still helped.

I wandered up and down the beach with no real perception o f time and after two hours passed I decided to return home. There I found no real difference than before, as my mum was still comforting my grandma, my dad was working and my brother and sister were watching TV. When I entered the room and sat down in a chair beside the fire, neither my brother or my sister said anything but the same feeling was written on both their faces. It had been a bad day and one that I will never forget.

Alick Mildmav- White

47

Fanfare 1999-2000

Mount House School Rugby 1st X V Rugby

V )73O

This season the school has, once again, run eight teams, with sides taking the field at U9, U10, U l l , U12, and U13 level.

The U9s took pride o f place among the junior teams. The A team won two tournaments and lost only two out o f their twenty one matches. Not to be outdone, the B team was undefeated in eleven matches, and won both o f the tournaments in which it took part.

The U1 Is enjoyed a wonderful end to its rugby season with a tour to the Channel Islands for a tournament run by St M ichael’s, Jersey. Fellow visitors, Bedford School and Colston’s Collegiate, proved difficult opposition, but the hosts and Victoria College, Jersey, were both well beaten.

In the senior school, the 2nd XV was undefeated and the 1st XV reached the finals o f the National Prep Schools XV a side Tournament. In the finals, played at Harrow School, the 1 st XV lost only one match and was a worthy winner o f the Plate Trophy.

Rob Morse

Results Christmas 1999-Easter 2000played won draw n lost for against

1st XV 14 9 0 5 454 135Regional Winners o f U l i National Prep Schools Tournament

National XVs 5 3 1 Plate Winners

1 51 21

Sedbergh XVs 4 2 1 Quarter Finalists

1 60 21

1st VII 29 16 0 Semi Finalists, Clayesmore Sevens; Quarter Finalists, Bryanston Sevens

13 396 409

2nd VII 8 4 1 3Finalists, Clayesmore Sevens 2nd VII Tournament

114 63

2nd XV 6 6 0 0 197 12 100% season, beating The Downs 43-0, and Exeter Cathedral 1st X V 15-0

3rd XV 3 1 0 Beat The Downs

2 24 35

Colts A XII 12 6 0 Jersey Tour 5 3 0

62

13354

21852

Colts VII 3 1 0 Plate Winners-Plymouth College Sevens

2 47 29

Colts B XII 8 2 0 6 59 174 U10 1 1 0 0 10 5Unbeaten season, inflicting Plymouth College s only home defeat o f the season

U9 A 19 15 2 2 310 55Winners ofWolborough Hill and Mount House tournaments entered this term

U 9B 11 10 1 0 215 20Unbeaten season, winners ofWolborough Hill & St M ichael’s, Tawstock U9 Tournaments

Total 128 79 43 2124 1249

The 1999 season began with much anticipation. With a large number o f players with 1st team experience returning to the sixth form, and a few very talented players coming through from last season’s successful Colts XII, hopes were high. With this in mind, the domestic fixture list was extended to include sides such as Abberley Hall from Worcestershire, Mowden Hall from the North, and Bedford School from the East Midlands. In addition, we entered the National Preparatory Schools XV-a-Side competition which was to take place on a Regional footing with the top teams from each area qualifying for the National Finals at Harrow School in the Easter Term. The 1999 XV looked good on paper and with such a demanding stream o f opponents we would soon see if the players could live up to these expectations.

The season started with a trip to Sedbergh School for a XV-a- Side competition, which saw Mount House produce an excellent set o f performances. Throughout the tournament there was an obvious improvement in the standard o f rugby that we played and the team became much more closely-knit. Wins against Cressbrook, Red House and a very hard fought 0-0 draw against The Downs saw us go through to the quarter finals as group winners, whereupon we were drawn against a powerful Durham Choristers team who put us out o f the competition.

The return from Sedbergh saw us play Sandroyd who gave us , a very stem examination and, although Mount House was always comfortable with the ball in hand we never really made our possession count and eventually ran out winners by five points to nil.

The first domestic match o f the season saw us pitted against Taunton School and the team produced an exceptional performance with three tries in the first ten minutes. Powerful rucking provided the backs with excellent possession and the quality o f three-quarter play was some o f the best that I have seen at this level. Two further tries saw Mount House 34 points up at half time. Four more tries were added, with only one in reply completing a 54-7 victory.

We then undertook our second away trip o f the season, a demanding two matches on consecutive days versus Abberley Hall and Mowden Hall.

This was a very disappointing pair o f results as we were more than capable o f winning both matches. The side was slow to start and in each match gifted the opposition a try within the first five minutes. This gave the other team the initiative and made it very difficult for us to gain any control over the game.

It would be over critical to suggest that the side did not seem to ‘want the ball’ enough but some lackadaisical tackling and sub­standard rucking saw us come off second best on the physical side of the game. On a positive note, however, there were some excellent passages o f play; the backs shone in the early phases of each game and Alex Cater’s superb solo try against Mowden Hall deserves a special mention.

Upon returning from Abberley Hall the team was faced with a tough decision; they had lost two matches that they knew that they should have won, and it would have been an easy option to become negative and wallow in self-pity. It is to their immense credit, therefore, that they trained with much enthusiasm and this was repaid in the next fixture against King’s Hall. Powerful forward play in both the set piece and in the loose provided the backs with quick ball and the resulting three-quarter play was a pleasure to watch. The team produced an excellent performance, full o f pride and commitment and it thoroughly deserved the 53-0 victory.

Bedford was our next opponent, and we were the meat in a ‘Sandwich Tour’ that saw them play Millfield on the way down to the Southwest and Colston’s on the return. John Williams stepped up to the fly-half position, as Alex Cater was unavailable, and played with exceptional maturity. Despite losing by two scores to nil (12-0) this was one o f our best efforts o f the season. Facing an enormous pack, containing two 11 stone props, the Mount House

48

Fanfare 1999-2000

and powerful pack, which made life in the scrum and lineout very difficult for our own forwards. It is all the more impressive, therefore, that the team ‘rolled up their sleeves’ and got on with the job; rucking and mauling with huge determination and pushing Hazlegrove onto the back foot.

Having secured quality possession. Mount House wasted no time in tearing into the opposition three-quarters, with Crawford and Pickard proving more than a handful for the opposition centres. Although the two teams were relatively closely matched in terms o f skill and power, the real difference between the two teams was the way in which Mount House communicated and co-operated with each other. It was a pleasure to see all fifteen players combining together; supporting the ball carrier, helping out in defence and, above all, talking to each other throughout the game. Mount House ran out victors to the tune o f 32 points to 5.

The following Wednesday we travelled to St Michael’s, Tawstock. To win away at St Michael’s is a very difficult task - to come away victorious by a margin of 26 points is testament to the positive way in which we took on the opposition.

In cold and damp conditions St Michael’s stuck to a kicking game and much praise must go to full-back Freddie Cunningham, who dealt with some very difficult kicks with comparative ease.

'Despite looking second best in the early minutes o f the game, the Mount House forwards soon started to ruck with enthusiasm. This provided quality possession for the backs to use and the three-quarters scored all five tries. This is in no way to the detriment o f the forwards who worked with

1st XV (continued)

forwards played with huge determination and all 15 players deserve a great deal o f praise for the way in which they refused to lie down. Mr Godwin, the Bedford Headmaster, was enormously impressed by the spirit shown.

The team now faced the biggest test o f the season in their eyes. As a relative newcomer to the MHS-WHS local derby I had no idea that the Mount House team were in such awe o f their rivals in Newton Abbot. Talk o f the match started at least a week in advance and, as matchday approached, the boys were already preparing themselves for a physical onslaught o f All-Black proportions. In all honesty we managed to lose the game rather than Wolborough winning it. We were by far the better team on the pitch, and managed to run them ragged without converting pressure into points. As soon as Wolborough scored, our heads went down and we allowed them to take a firm grip on the game. It is sad that we will not face them at Under 13 level again as we must learn that each team is level until you set foot on the pitch; talking up, or even down, one’s opponents serves little good, and often leads to a less than satisfactory performance.

The XV once again managed to bounce back from a disappointing effort and this time St Peter’s was put to the sword. A confident St Peter’s team took the field expecting a resounding victory but was soon brought to their senses as Mount House rattled off three tries in the opening quarter. Testament to the open style o f rugby played was that the tries were scored right through the team from prop to full-back. Ten tries were scored in total and the team displayed a tactical awareness that had hitherto been lacking.

Saturday 13th November saw the resumption o f fixtures against Hazlegrove House. The visitors possessed a very large

49

Fanfare 1999-2000

1st X V (continued)

U)" U

o

enormous enthusiasm and laid the foundations upon which the backs were able to build. In short, this was a pleasing victory in difficult conditions brought about by all fifteen players working together as a team and forming a unit that was worth much more than ‘merely the sum o f the parts’.

The XV continued its confident, almost arrogant style of rugby by posting sixty points against a young Sherborne team, before facing one o f the toughest matches o f the season; an away fixture against The Downs.

Having already beaten Caldicott this season, The Downs was very confident that it would improve on the 0-0 draw that we had fought out at Sedbergh in the early season. It was very generous of Mount House to give them a helping hand, and a few mistakes as the side ‘got the journey out o f their system' cost us dear. We soon found ourselves twelve points down. Earlier in the season, faced with this situation, I am sure that Mount House would have crumbled and it is to their credit that it came back at The Downs to regain the lead by half-time. Mount House continued to play the better rugby after the break and, despite some disruptions on the pitch, was unlucky not to extend its lead when it had a try disallowed for a forward pass.

With twelve minutes remaining Mount House led 13-12 and suffered a huge blow when Alex Cater was injured and unable to carry on. With no replacement to fill the gap, The Downs exploited the situation, spinning the ball along the line and using the extra man to score in the comer. They added a further try with the last play o f the match.

Although it was disappointing to lose the match, it was clear to the Mount House parents who were watching that we played the game in the correct spirit. On no occasion did we result to unfair play or retaliation and, in my opinion, this is as important, if not more important, than the result.

The start o f the Easter Term saw Mount House playing St Michael’s at home and the team showed that it had not lost its competitive edge over the Christmas break. Eight tries (including four from Elliott Pickard) and four conversions amounted to a pleasing afternoon’s work, and at the final whistle the scoreboard read fifty-three points to five.

Having already played St M ichael’s twice in the season, one can imagine our surprise when notification came through that Mount House had been drawn against none other than St Michael’s Tawstock in the Southwest Regional Final o f the National Preparatory Schools Knockout Competition.

The game was to be played on a neutral venue and we are greatly indebted to King’s College Taunton for hosting the fixture. Goalposts were moved to shorten the 1 st XV pitch to prep school size, refreshments were laid on in style for players and supporters alike, signposts erected to point supporters in the right direction, and the referee conducted the game in exactly the right spirit.

To cap it all, reports had been filtering down from Tawstock that St Michael’s was confident o f reversing the earlier results and Morse, Whaley and Symons were a little apprehensive that the Mount House boys were looking a little over confident. We need not have worried as they produced simply the best rugby o f the season. Powerful forward play in both the set piece and in the loose provided the backs with quick ball and the resulting three- quarter play was simply breathtaking. Mount House produced some fluid, fifteen-man rugby that proved too much for St Michael’s to handle, and after scoring twice in the first nine minutes the result was never in doubt.

Ten tries were scored in total, and 1 was proud to be associated with the team as it matched its performance on the pitch with its conduct after the match.

The season was brought to a close on the weekend o f the 11th and 12th o f March when we travelled to Harrow on the Hill (via the Millfield Sevens) to contest the final o f the National XV-a- Side Knockout.

The finals o f this competition were played in two groups of four teams. Josca’s Prep from Abingdon, Oxfordshire was defeated 12-0 in the first match and then the XV drew 7-7 with Cumnor House from Surrey. In a bruising final group match the XV lost to Crossfields from Reading 0-14.

These results meant that we would, as runners up in the group, contest The Plate Competition. The semi-final saw us drawn against our old rivals, St M ichael’s, Tawstock and, for the fourth time in the season, we won comfortably, 17-0. In the final, the XV played outstanding rugby to win The Plate, beating Josca’s Prep, for a second time, by 15-0. Seamus Crawford, 1st XV captain, received the trophy from former England Captain, Roger Uttley.

The Team

I can only say that I am pleased that I didn’t have to pack down against the front row of Paddy Pearson, Tom Heal and Lloyd Nail. They provided a sure foundation upon which the whole o f our play was built. Equally devastating in the loose they could be relied upon to roll up their sleeves when there was work to be done. They were ably supported, often quite literally by Alex Nail and John Hawkins, who, when they were not injuring our own team, were a formidable pairing, supplying a constant source o f line-out possession, and rucking, and mauling, with vigour.

The back row o f James Downie, Andrew MacDougall and Luke Dale-Harris were both robust and efficient and could always (well almost always) be relied upon to be first to the breakdown. They also worked hard on their handling skills and were often on hand to ensure the continuity o f a move if it began to breakdown.

50

1st XV (continued)

Stuart Smyth settled into the serum-half berth with ease and as his confidence grew, so did his game. Content in the early stages to pass the ball 99 times out o f a 100 he began to execute box kicks and make the occasional break, which kept the opposition back row on their toes. Stuart had two outside halves during the season. The first, Alex Cater could kick off both feet, pass o ff both hands and had a keen eye for a break. It was, therefore, all the more amazing to see John Williams take over the no. 10 jersey whilst in his fifth form and play with an air o f authority and maturity that belied his years.

The centre pairing o f Seamus Crawford and Elliott Pickard was quite remarkable in that they complemented each other perfectly. Seamus, who captained the side with a great degree of maturity, was always able to pick an excellent line o f running and timed his pass exquisitely. Elliott, on the other hand, was a fantastically elusive runner, often running him self into trouble before swivelling his hips and finding a way out again.

With William Dawson on one wing and James Tuckett on the other the team possessed a real pair o f flyers. Diminutive in stature, yet gigantic in determination, they posed problems to all opposition in both attack and defence.

After a slightly shaky start Freddie Cunningham made the no. 15 jersey his own. His handling improved considerably as the season wore on and he could always be relied upon to give o f his best.

George Armstrong, James Batchelor, and Harry Young- Jamieson all competed for places in the side and in other years would have secured a 1st XV position. I am sure that each o f them has a sound future in the game. Luke Heracleous, Stuart Heale, Chris O ’Brien, and David Watkins all made their debuts whilst in the fifth form and I would like to think that they will be influential players in next year’s XV.

Looking back on the season, it seems to me that there are rather too many matches which fall into the ‘would have, could have, should have’ category. All too often we let teams off the hook when they should have been dispatched earlier on in the game. Lack o f concentration, rather than physical ability, was to blame on the majority o f occasions and this was most obvious when we travelled away from home. With the exception o f the match against Bedford School we won every home match played, often by fifty points or more. Away from home, however, when the surroundings were less familiar and comfortable, we recorded only two wins out o f a possible six.

That said, it must be recognized that this team played a great many fixtures against schools that are both much larger than Mount House, and do not form part o f the usual fixture list. It is easy to record a season full o f wins if you play only against teams that are smaller or weaker than yourselves. In order to progress, both as an individual and as a team, one must go out and pit oneself against the best there is to offer. It is only by playing these teams that we will improve.

Finally I would like to thank all that played, coached and supported the 1 st XV throughout the year. I can only hope that you enjoyed the season as much as I did.

Rob Morse

Resultsvs. Cressbrook won 17-0tries: J. Hawkins, J. Downie, G. Armstrong, conversions: E Pickard

vs. Red House won 38-0tries: S. Crawford 3, T. Heal, A. Cater, conversions: E Pickard 4

vs. The Downs

vs. Durham Choristers try: J. Hawkins

vs. Sandroydtry: Crawford

drawn 0-0

lost 5-21

won 5-0

vs. Taunton won 54-7tries: W. Dawson (3), Crawford (2), T. Heal, S. Heale, L. Nail, E. Pickard, J. Downie; conversions: Cater, Pickard

vs. Abberleytry: S. Crawford

lost 15-5

vs. Mowden Hall lost 21-12tries: A. Cater, G. Armstrong; conversion :E Pickard

vs. King’s Hall won 53-0tries: W. Dawson (2), Crawford (2), A. Cater (2), S. Heale, A. MacDougall, L. Dale Harris; conversions: A. Cater (4)

vs. Bedford School lost 0-12

vs. Wolborough Hill lost 17-27tries: W. Dawson, S. Crawford, P. Pearson; conversion: J. Williams

vs. St Peter’s won 58-0tries: E. Pickard (3), J. Hawkins (2) J. Downie(2), L. Nail, P. Pearson, G. Armstrong; conversions: A. Cater (4)

vs. Hazlegrove Housetries: E. Pickard (2), J. Downie, S. Smyth, A. Cater; conversions: A. Cater (2); penalty: A. Cater

won 32-5

vs. St Michael’s won 33-7tries: S. Crawford (2), J. Tuckett, S. Smyth, A. Cater; conversions A. Cater (4)

vs. Sherborne Prep won 60-0tries: S. Crawford (2) A. Nail (2), J. Tuckett (2), E. Pickard (2),S. Smyth, A. Cater; conversions: A. Cater (4), J. Williams

vs. The Downs lost 13-22tries: James Tuckett, William Dawson; penalty: Alex Cater

vs. St Michael’s won 53-5tries: E. Pickard (4), W. Dawson (2), S. Crawford, J. Tuckett,L. Dale-Harris

SW Regional Finaltries: J. Tuckett, L. Dale-Harris, T. Heal, J. Downie; cons: A. Cater (7)

vs. St Michael’stries: E. Pickard (3), S. Smyth (2), S. Crawford

won 64-14

The National Preparatory Schools Finals at Harrow Schoolvs. Josca’s Prep won 12-0vs. Cumnor House drawn 7-7vs. Crossfields lost 0-14Second place in GroupPlate CompetitionSemi Finalvs. St Michael’s won 17-0Finalvs. Josca’s Prep won 15-0

1999-2000

(/>TJO

2nd X V

It was a pleasure to be associated with this year's 2nd XV who were as dedicated and enthusiastic a group of individuals as ever represented the school. Young and keen to learn, several won call-ups to the 1 st XV, and always performed well.

The 2nd XV won every one o f their games, playing an exciting running and passing game. This enabled all members o f the team to enjoy an active part in the matches and resulted in the team scoring thirty three tries and conceding only two.

Taunton Prep 2nd XV 0, Mount House 2nd XV 31An experienced pack and young enthusiastic backs proved to be an

irresistible combination in this opening fixture for the 2nd XV. Good support and excellent handling saw the team cross the opposition line three times before half-time. A 19-0 lead proved well beyond Taunton’s reach, despite a better second half performance. Two more tries saw the team safely home by a clear margin.

Mount House tries were scored by John Williams (2), Christian Lowe, Neil Hargreaves and George Clarke, a newcomer to Mount House and the game o f rugby this term. John Williams kicked three conversions to cap an outstanding afternoon at fly- half.

Only Christian Low e’s broken collar bone, which was to end his season, marred an otherwise excellent start to the term.

Exeter Cathedral School 1st XV 0, Mount House 2nd XV 15Taking on 1st XV opposition is always a difficult task and this match

was no exception. A tough forward battle was gradually won by a young Mount House pack that relished the challenge allowing flanker David Watkins to open the scoring just before half-time.

The second half saw Mount House gain control and it was no surprise when further scores were added by Freddie Cunningham and Neil Hargreaves. Andrew MacDougall, Chris O ’Brien and James Killingbeck all put in excellent performances to maintain the X V ’s 100% record.

King’s Hall, Taunton 2nd XV 5 M ount House 2nd XV 14This was the most difficult match played by the 2nd XV this term.

However, despite strong opposition, the pack scrummaged and rucked to good effect and the backs looked threatening every time they ran with the ball. Handling and support play was o f a very high standard, with David Watkins, Edward Tuckett and James Killingbeck all enjoying good games.

Captain Neil Hargreaves kept up his record o f scoring in every game, and James Tuckett made a welcome return after injury with the try that guaranteed a deserved win.

Mount House 2nd XV 83 St Peters, Lympstone 0This match quickly deteriorated into a mismatch with three tries

scored in the first four minutes o f the game. Twelve substitutions all but changed the XV into the 3rd XV, but the tries kept coming until the referee called an early halt to the game. Tries were scored by Neil Hargreaves 2, John Williams 2, Jonathan Hare, Dominic Harding, Andrei Koranteng, James Killingbeck, David Watkins, Alexander Love, Edward Tuckett, George Clarke, Rory Cumming and Tristan Coulshaw.

M ount House 2nd XV 12 Hazlegrove House 2nd XV 7After the previous w eek’s huge win, the 2nd XV came back to earth

with a bump. This was a rough, tough match from beginning to end. Neither pack could gain the upper hand, but the better running and passing skills o f the Mount House backs saw winger George Clarke cross for two tries. John Williams added a conversion to put Mount House 12-0 up. The visitors produced a spirited response, but their single try in the last minutes could not deny the home side a deserved, if narrow win.

M ount House 2nd XV 43 The Downs, Wraxall 2nd XV 0This was the final game o f the term for the 2nd XV who were fired up

to protect their 100% record. Their opponents from Bristol have an enviable reputation and the match was anticipated as a real challenge. That threat never materialized as the home forwards destroyed the visitors pack.

With Mount House dominating every area o f play, the tries soon began to flow. Outstanding rucking and superb handling brought tries for James Batchelor, John Williams, Neil Hargreaves and George Armstrong, giving the home side a comfortable 24-0 half time lead.

52

2nd XV (continued) 3rd X V (above)

The second half saw more tries for James Batchelor and George Armstrong, while the scoring was finished o ff with a score under the posts by Stuart Heale. John Williams kicked four conversions.

John SymonsThe Record

Played 6 Won 6 Drawn 0 Lost 0 For 197 Against

v. Taunton Prep School 2nd XV (A) W 31 - 0v. Exeter Cathedral School 1st XV (A) W 15 - 0v. King's Hall, Taunton 2nd XV (A) w 14 -5v. St Peters, Lympstone 2nd XV (H) w 83 - 0v. Hazlegrove House 2nd XV (H) w 12 - 7v. The Downs, Wraxall 2nd XV (H) w 43 - 0

Tries: Hargreaves 6, Williams 5, Clarke 4, Armstrong 2, Batchelor 2, Hare 2, Coulshaw, Cumming, Cunningham, Harding, Heale, Koranteng, Killingbeck, Love, Lowe, Tuckett E., Tuckett J., Watkins.

Conversions: Williams 13, Hare 3.

The following boys played regularly for the 2nd XV:Edward Tuckett, Rory Cumming, George Clarke, James Killingbeck, Dominic Harding, John Williams, Neil Hargreaves (capt), James Batchelor, Chris O ’Brien, Alexander Tobey, John Yeomans, Stuart Heale, Andrei Koranteng, David Watkins, Harry Young-Jamieson.

The following also appeared for the 2nd XV:David Daly, Andrew Stone, Edward Jaquiery, Christian Lowe,Andrew MacDougall, Freddie Cunningham, Luke Heracleous, Alexander Love, Tristan Coulshaw, Freddie Burwell, Jonathan Hare, David Palmer, Fenton Bailey, Beau Fraser, Jack Rangeley, Hisham Hijazi, James Edwards, George Armstrong.

The first game o f the season took place at King’s Hall, Taunton, whose 3rd XV was very strong this year. Mount House produced plenty o f effort - especially Alex Love and Andrew Stone (who were the best forwards throughout the season) but we did not win enough 50/50 possession and the three quarters were a little too tentative. The final score was 26-0 to K ing’s Hall.

A month later we travelled to Hazlegrove House - a new fixture at this level - and produced a much more fluid display in a game that could have gone either way. Three o f the chosen XV went down with illness on the day o f the game and so a 12-0 reverse was no disgrace at all. It was great to see both David Cowgill and Mary Bridger - as well as several parents o f the boys in the team - at the match. All present thought that a draw would have been a fairer result.

The final game was a real triumph for the team - a win against The Downs is always a good result, but a 24-0 win was a super performance. The determination to win was there right from the first whistle and it was a real team effort. Jonathan Hare was an inspiration at fly half and registered 14 points, but this was only possible due to the support supplied by the rest o f the team.

An excellent way to round off the season.Jonathan Banyard

The Record

■ Played 3 Won 1 Drawn 0 Lost 2 For 24 Against 37

Squad: A. Stone (Captain), T. Cuckson, C. Hanney,T. Coulshaw, A. Mildmay-White, T. Emerson, J. Hare,E. Tuckett, M. Creber, H. Hijazi, P. Elliott, P. Liddell-Grainger, C. Gilling, J. Edwards, A. Love, J. Ward, F. Burwell, F. Bailey, E. Jaquiery.J. Rangeley, R. Brooke, D. Palmer, D. Daly, B. Fraser.

Tries: Hare 2, Love, Stone.

Conversions: Hare 2.

Fanfare 1999-2000

1st VII

(/)" O

O

The Sevens year began in customary fashion with a visit to Dorset for the Clayesmore Sevens. A gloriously sunny day and firm pitches ideally suited the type o f rugby the 1st VII was looking to play.

The team was an experienced one, with six o f the team having played the previous year.The afternoon went well and the VII gave one o f the best exhibitions o f attacking rugby produced by a school VII for many years. Handling, running and passing were all o f the highest quality and all seven players contributed to the 28 tries which the team scored in its 6 matches.

Although there were weaknesses in defence, this was a very pleasing start to the term ’s rugby.

Group Matchesvs. Aldro L 17-39vs. Hazlegrove W 22- 5vs. Clayesmore W 48- 7vs. Blundell’s w 36- 0vs. Old Malthouse w 34-12

Semi Finalvs. The Downs L 5-31

Tries: Pickard 10, Crawford 9, Heal 5, Downie,Cater, Nail A., Armstrong Group Matches Group MatchesConversions: Pickard 9. Cater 2 vs. Colston’s Collegiate I 5-14 vs. Millfield L 0-42

vs. Sherborne Prep W 26- 0 vs. Wycliffe L 5-12To finish off the Christmas Term the VII vs. Port Regis L 10-26 vs. Greshams L 0-39

returned to Dorset for the Bryanston Sevens. 8th/9th/10th place play-off vs. Wolborough Hill L 0-20Again the VII played technically excellent vs. St M ichael’s, Tawstock W 19- 5 Colin Atkinson Trophysevens. This was sufficient to win their group, vs. Blundell’s w 19- 0 vs. Monmouth W 14-5although all the games were close. Tries: Pickard 5, Crawford 3, Heal 3, vs. Rokeby W 10-5 (aet)Unfortunately, the quarter-finals pitched the VII against a large Welsh comprehensive school whose players were considerably older and stronger than ours. Inevitably, a tired VII was well beaten. Though it was good to note that the VII had beaten all prep school opposition, there remained the lingering doubt that, skilful though they were, this team was not mentally tough enough when the chips were down.

Group Matchesvs. Hazlegrove House W 14- 7vs. King’s, Winchester W 12- 5vs. St Cyres W 7- 0

Quarter Finalvs. Whitchurch L 0-36

Tries: Crawford 3, Dawson W.2.Conversions: Pickard 4

The first tournament o f the Easter Term was the Port Regis Sevens in Dorset. Persistent rain leading up to the tournament meant heavy ground. Such conditions were a major problem for this year’s lightweight team which included several boys some 30 kgs under the weight limit!

That said, the VII played with great skill against a large Colston’s VII in the opening match. Their coach congratulated us ‘for playing them off the park’, but two missed tackles saw Colston’s large winger escape for the tries which won the match. Elliott Pickard’s outstanding try in reply was probably the best individual effort o f the year. A comfortable win over Sherborne followed, but a poor performance against the hosts, when we lost our shape and again missed crucial tackles, saw the team out o f the main competition. In the battle for minor places the VII played well to beat St Michael’s, Tawstock and Blundell’s with something to spare.

Dawson W., DownieConversions: Pickard 4, H eal 2, Crawford

A fine afternoon and firm pitches made it a pleasure to be at The Downs’ Sevens in early Spring. The group matches were all difficult in their different ways. Danes Hill were a similar team to ourselves: small, well drilled and skilful. One missed tackle cost us the game. Cheltenham were bigger than us, but a more committed, physical performance saw the VII to a good victory. St John’s, Beaumont was very much bigger and better than we, and comfortably brushed us aside.

In the Plate we played badly enough to wrench defeat from the jaw s o f victory, going down to Wycliffe, thanks to a ‘golden try ’ in extra time.

Group Matchesvs. Danes Hill vs. Cheltenham vs. St John's, Beaumont

Platevs. Wycliffe

Tries: Crawford 3, Pickard Conversions: Pickard

The Millfield Sevens this year clashed with the Finals o f the National Prep Schools XVs Tournament, which were played on the following day. Rather than pull out o f this splendid competition, it was decided to enter a team made up mostly o f 2nd VII players.

Not surprisingly the boys, mostly U12s, found the group matches very demanding. Their results, however, put them into the Colin Atkinson Trophy, which they went on to win with victories over Monmouth and Rokeby.

L 0- 5W 12- 5L 0-29

L 10-15

Tries: Clarke, Crawford, Downie, Heale S., Tuckett J.Conversions: Crawford 2

For many boys the National Prep Schools’ Sevens represents their final chance to play for Mount House before going on to senior school. This year the ten man squad comprised five leavers, and five who will be with us next year.

As ever, the two days o f the National Sevens were remarkable. To be part o f a festival celebrating seven-a-side rugby, along with 500 schools is a not-to-be-forgotten experience. Old Boys were noticeable in the quarter finals o f the Festival with Ben Davies and Charlie Harris representing Sherborne, and Clive Jennings playing for King’s College, Taunton. Oliver Dick was also playing with Radley. Andrew Bridger and Peter Franklin both reached the knock-out stage o f the Colts Tournament with Sherborne.

The group matches followed a familiar pattern: one competent display, against Aysgarth from Yorkshire; one abject performance against Highfield from Hampshire; and an exhilarating display o f seven-a-side that overwhelmed Rokeby. Ball watching and lack o f communication were the main reasons for the failure to reach the knock-out stage. At no time did the V II’s skills drop below the high standard they have shown all year.

Group M atchesvs. Aysgarth vs. Highfield vs. Rokeby

Tries: Pickard 4, Crawford 3, Heale 2, Downie, WilliamsConversions: Williams 5, Pickard 2, Cunningham

(continued, opposite)

W 26-12L 7-28W 38- 5

54

2nd VII

The 2nd VII got few chances to perform this year and this proved a pity for they were an entertaining and effective unit. Rugged 1 st XV forwards combined well with small, elusive backs who handled well, no matter the conditions.The Clayesmore Sevens was played in perfect conditions and the VII ran in ten tries in their group games and then added six more for good measure in their Semi- Final against Blundell’s. The Final was a much tougher affair and the VII came second best to a good Aldro side.

Group Matchesvs: Chafyn Grove W 3 6 - 0vs. Colstons W 2 2 - 0

Semi Finalvs. Blundells W 3 2 - 0

Finalvs. Aldro L 0 - 1 7

Tries: Williams J. 5, Dawson W. 3, Smyth 3, Hawkins 2, MacDougall 2, Cunningham F. Conversions: Williams J. 4, Cunningham F.

In order to peek into the future, it was decided that the 2nd VII at The Downs Sevens would contain only U12s. This meant that while the VII might be a little underpowered, the competition would be an ideal test for their organizational and personal skills.

The Downs fielded a team which contained older and more powerful players and who were too strong for the VII. However, a narrow defeat against Port Regis, an excellent draw against Caldicott and an exciting win over Clifton made this

a worthwhile and successful experiment.The future o f Seven-a-side rugby at

Mount House would appear, on this showing, to be in good hands.

Group Matchesvs. The Downs L 5 - 2 4vs. Port Regis L 7 - 12vs. Caldicott D 5 - 5vs. Clifton W 7 - 5

Tries: Cumming, Killingbeck, Heal,Cunningham F.Conversions: Heal 2

John Symons & Rob Morse

The following boys played for the 2nd Vll:Neil Hargreaves, John Williams, William Dawson, John Hawkins, Andrew MacDougall, Stuart Smyth, Freddie Cunningham, Tom Heal, James Killingbeck, Lloyd Nail, Rory Cumming.

(1st VII, continued)

The fact that twenty boys played for the 1st VII is o f course pleasing in terms o f individual development and many will return next year, better players for the experience. However, it also indicates the number o f injuries suffered this term, the loss o f two very able players to soccer and the difficulty in finding the right blend o f players to play this most demanding o f games.

However, those who did last the course were unfailing in their efforts to improve, kept their sense o f humour when things went awry, played the game in the right spirit and were excellent ambassadors for the school at all times. They were, in short, a pleasure to train and very good company throughout several hundred miles o f motorway driving.

John Symons & Rob Morse

The following boys have represented the 1st VII:James Downie, John Hawkins, Freddie Cunningham, Tom Heal, Seamus Crawford (capt.), Elliott Pickard, James Tuckett, William Dawson, George Clarke, Neil Hargreaves,James Killingbeck, Alexander Nail, Alexander Cater, George Armstrong, Stuart Smyth, Luke Heracleous, Lloyd Nail, Luke Dale-Harris, Christopher O 'Brien, Stuart Heale.

Colts VIIsWith the rugby tour to Jersey there was only time to enter the South West Preparatory Schools’

Tournament at Plymouth. The squad got off to a rather sluggish start. Lacking a little in experience, it was unable to keep contrql o f each game. However, during the match against The Downs, a great change was seen in the side. Hard tackles were being put in, and the defence in general became more disciplined. With possession, the team produced some positive running, backed with good support play.

Group matches: vs. Plymouth III (W 10-0); vs. Plymouth II (L 0-5); vs. The Downs (L 0-22)O f the four teams in its group. Mount House came third, and thus went into The Plate

Competition. The first game was against St Petroc’s, where we comfortably won 38-0. In the semi­final the boys beat Exeter Cathedral 25-0. In the final o f The Plate the team played Bramdean. The boys gave a fine display o f ball handling and tough tackling, eventually winning the game 26-0.

Malcolm BassettSquad: N. Batchelor, H. Cunningham, W. Day-Robinson, R. Campbell, S. Cater, A. Bunnell,N. Blackwood, E. Dawson, J. Righton, J. WheelerTries: Blackwood (6), Cunningham (4), Day-Robinson (3), Batchelor, Bunnell, Campbell, Cater Conversions: Batchelor (7)

Fanfare 1999-2000

c/>" O

o

56

Colts

The season got off to a good start with a 10-0 win over Taunton Junior School. The tackling was most determined and there were glimpses o f considerable individual talents. James Righton and Nathaniel Blackwood scored the tries.

King’s Hall, as usual, were good opponents. The trip up the M5, however, seemed to take the edge off our team and despite a determined effort we lost 17-0.

Treliske came to Mount House with one o f its strongest teams for a few years. A most enjoyable game ended with us winning 10-0. This was the game where the pack began to play a major role in the fortunes o f the team; Alex Bunnell being a key figure throughout the game, as well as being one o f the try scorers, with Henry Cunningham the other.

The journey across the moor to Wolborough again proved to sap all energy from the team! Despite periods o f our putting them under considerable pressure we managed to lose by 40-8. Although disappointed we learnt that we were the first team to score against them! William Day-Robinson was the try scorer whilst Nick Batchelor slotted home a penalty kick.

At St Peter’s the game was entertaining. We maintained long periods o f pressure and the whole team worked hard to provide creditable support play. Tries were scored by Tom Whaley, Alex Bunnell, Seb Cater and Jack Adams; Nick Batchelor scoring three conversions. A stray pass to an opponent on our side provided St Peter’s the opportunity to score and the game ended 21-7.

Hazlegrove again provided us with a very close game. There was lots o f good tackling, but handling was not as fluent as it should have been. Alex Bunnell, Nick Batchelor, Henry Cunningham and James Righton were outstanding and we were very unlucky not to win. The score was 14-10 with Henry Cunningham scoring our try, and Nick Batchelor scoring the conversion and a penalty.

The trip to St M ichael's is always a telling journey along the windy roads. We arrived at Tawstock a sleepy bunch, though thankfully our opponents had thought o f everything. They provided strong winds and slippery mud to force open our tired eyelids! The game was a little one-sided this year. We won 59-0. Try scorers were: Tom Whaley, Ed Dawson, Henry Cunningham (2), Alex Bunnell (3) and Nick Batchelor (2, plus 7 conversions).

We played Sherborne Prep at home this year and it was a pleasure as it did not involve a four hour bus journey like last season. A flowing game o f rugby ended in a victory for M ount House 17-0.

We managed to play the strongest Downs team for many seasons, away, on their large

pitch. 1 aged visibly and the side had so much tackling, covering, and more tackling to do, that the whole team was exhausted by the final whistle. The score? Fifty points to nil. A very good side indeed.

It has become a sort o f tradition that our last game o f the season is against Papplewick,Ascot. The game was end-to-end stuff. They had two or three fast, robust players that caused us problems, and on our side Henry Cunningham and Alex Bunnell caused Papplewick problems. The final score was 27-0 to Papplewick. They fully deserved to win but the score did not reflect the determination nor the attacking pressure displayed by the Mount House team.

Early in the Easter Term we had a match against St M ichael’s, Tawstock. We played on Rowden, where there was plenty o f space to play an open game. After the previous term ’s romp the boys were expecting an easy game. It was not to be so! A fast and flowing game, neither side could rely on keeping possession.At half-time it was 17-5 to M ount House. Tries coming from Henry Cunningham, Ed Dawson and Nick Batchelor (plus conversion). The second half was real end-to-end rugby with M ount House hanging on to the lead to end the game at 27-17, the remaining tries being scored by Tom Whaley and Henry Cunningham.

Malcolm Bassett

Played 12: W on 6 Lost 6

Colts Trip to JerseyDue to som e m om entary lapse in his

(m y?) concentration I persuaded Leigh B arnard to help m e take the C olts on tour to Jersey. The thought o f fourteen hardened rugby playing ten-year-olds on tour would have put o ff a m an o f lesser m etal.

A t 5am on W ednesday 8th M arch we w ere sitting in the m inibus, all packed and ready to g o . . .no M r Barnard! Where was he? H a d he fo rgo tten ? A fter h a lf an hour the boys becam e aw are that som ething w as not quite right. There w as a plane to catch! I could no t w ait any longer, as it was 5.45am. Just then there w as a distant squeal o f tyres. C ould it be? Mr. B arnard jo ined us feeling airsick and trying to w ork out the difference betw een ‘am ’ and ‘p m ’ on his alarm clock!

We flew from Exeter and had an enjoyable trip. W e picked up a m inibus at Jersey and R ose D aw son kindly m et us at the airport w ith a second vehicle. A t 1 lam the boy w ho w anted to know w here the m inibus w ould go on the plane still w ondered w hat had happened to it? It w as a good start!

We drove to St C a therine’s for brunch and w e w ere treated to the best bacon butties and coffee. We had our ‘o f f ’ m om ents at the Hotel, bu t th is w as m ainly over the parking arrangem ents. In the afternoon w e had a friendly gam e o f football against St M ichael’s. LB w as to display his dubious talents as referee and w e cam e second in the m atch! O ur keen supporters, Brenda B lackw ood and Rose B unnell, m et us at the pitch. T hey w ere to be very good value throughout the trip , I thank them here in print for their contribution to the tour. Rose and A ndrew D aw son also m et us and then forced us to their house after the gam e and made us eat pizza, sausages, sandw iches, etc., and the m ost fantastic cake, decorated as a rugby pitch! The boys felt at hom e and loved every m inute.

T he food at the hotel was also very good and the behav iour o f the boys was so good that L eigh and I w ere often stopped and asked w hich school they w ere from. Well- done boys! O n Thursday w e w ent ten-pin bow ling, played football, changed and

(Colts Trip to Jersey continued, opposite)

Squad: N ick Batchelor, Alex Bunnell,Henry Cunningham. William Day-Robinson, Tom Whaley, Ed Dawson, Josh Wheeler, Nathaniel Blackwood, Sebastian Cater, Robbie Campbell, James Righton,Richard Newsome, Tom Oxenham,Jack Adams.

Colts B

From the earliest sessions it was clear that this squad possessed nothing like the depth of talent that made the 1998 season so impressive; and that unless team- organization and match technique were o f the highest level, it would struggle to score. To a great extent my fears were realised. From a total o f eight games only two were won. The points for and against ratio was roughly 1:3, but on the credit side many third years’ gained vital experience, and at the end of term. The Under 10s, playing away, beat Plymouth College - a fine result which bodes well for colts rugby next year.

Lacking both size and speed, the first matches saw us struggle against Treliske School’s A team and although the victory against Taunton School was well merited, it was based on a four-try solo effort from Day-Robinson, who quite rightly soon won promotion. O f the remaining six matches we were soundly beaten by King’s Hall, Wolborough Hill and The Downs but secured a home victory against St Peter’s, Lympstone, and should have done the same against both Plymouth College and Hazlegrove House.

That we did not, having dominated both games for long periods, highlighted deficiencies in both attack and defence. At this level it is not enough just to run straight until the opposition tackle, for the ball must be passed before contact is made. Similar sense must be shown when defending. Too often tackles were missed, which gave the opposition points at critical stages of each match.

Individually all boys made good progress during the course o f the term but corporately the team failed to really gel and develop the kind o f competitive edge

Colts Trip to Jersey (continued)

relaxed at the Dawson's and finished with a swim in the hotel pool. On Friday we went to the zoo, which was most impressive. The orang-utans were a hit, but were overshadowed by a rather flamboyant otter! From the zoo we went swimming at the Merton Hotel (recommended by Ed Dawson, as he had special memories of the pool). It was great fun with flumes etc. and again people were coming up and complimenting us on our good and considerate behaviour. Leigh and I were rather outnumbered in the pool but I soon pulled rank , escaping to the peace of the shower, whilst leaving Leigh to the mercy of the lads! Our opponents, Bedford School, failed to make it to the island on Friday so we had a quick training session and then headed for the hotel, via the Dawson’s of course!

On Saturday we had to check out of the hotel early and get to the rugby tournament. Two members of the group were exhausted by 8.30am, having chased and checked fourteen under 11 s, and then got the team kit

required. Like it or not, the truth is that a game o f rugby will usually be won by the team which wants to win it the more. Too many times we were content to see what would happen, rather than make it happen.

After Day-Robinson’s elevation to The 1 st XII, the side was led by Parker - an abrasive forward who also played, at times, for the higher team. Useful with the ball in hand and in maul situations, he would have been even more o f an asset if he had developed his ability to pass accurately and to change the point o f attack. However, his solo charges up the field always posed a threat and he was at his best in the match against Lympstone where his two tries sealed the victory. O f the other forwards, Newsome, Tetley, Dance, Love and Painter all featured strongly and throughout the season - sometimes playing against much weightier individuals - could usually be relied upon to secure our own ball. At times, though, after promising periods o f action, they

into the vehicles. We were third in the tournament, having produced many patches of good rugby. Robbie Campbell had his hand crushed by a huge member of the opposition and was taken to hospital by Mrs Bunnell. He returned later with a typical Robbie smile, and no bones broken.

I made a mistake in taking the lads for a “Big Mac” after the games. I could not get them to hurry. As a result of hearty appetites we were rather late checking in at Jersey Airport. Just as we werp being rushed through the system an alarm was triggered by Sebastian Cater. It was the first time a “Gameboy” has been picked out by the scanners as a potential bomb! Following the saga of Mount House checking-in, the plane from Jersey to Exeter was ten minutes late taking-off.

We were exhausted by the time we returned to Mount House (well, LB and MB were) but it had been great fun. Looking forward to next year!

M alcolm B assett

drifted out o f matches and thus the initiative was surrendered. The last four named, along with Lawson, will all return to Colts duty next year and by then should be a more powerful unit.

The best half-back combination was Oxenham and Harbord. Both could be relied upon to compete fiercely, and, indeed, Harbord was the most dangerous runner in the three-quarters. Once again, however, passing technique was rickety. In the centre, Hargreaves and Willetts quickly established themselves and did well in defence often bringing their opposite numbers to a halt. With the ball, though, they struggled to push half-breaks into full ones. The same comments can be applied to Martin and Barkwell who both played with a laudable degree of determination but often found faster players in front of them.

A moderate season then, but provided these boys work upon their techniques and, above all, strive to impose themselves more forcefully in matches, there is no reason why they should not enjoy considerably more success at senior level.

Guy CanningT he R ecord

Played 8; Won 2; Lost 6; For 59; Against 174.

Treliske (A) L 15 37Taunton Prep (A) W 24 5Plymouth College (H) L 0 12King’s Hall Taunton (A) L 0 42Wolborough Hill (A) L 0 29St Peter’s, Lympstone (H) W 10 0Hazlegrove House (A) L 10 20The Downs, Wraxall (A) L 0 29

Try scorers:W. Day-Robinson 7, J. Parker 2, T. Oxenham 2. Goal scorers:W. Day-Robinson 2.

The following represented The Colts B:J. Adams, J. Barkwell, S. Blackwood, R. Dance, W. Day-Robinson, T. Franks, J. Harbord,S. Hardesty, 1. Hargreaves, S. Jenks, J. Lawson,D. Love, P. Martin, R. Newsome, T. Oxenham, T. Painter, L. Paisley, J. Parker (captain),G. Tetley, S. Willetts.

Fanfare 1999-2000

(/)■ U

o

Under 9s

What a start to the season! There was great enthusiasm and commitment in the build up to the first tournament at St Peter’s but we never imagined we would play so well. There were games against King’s Hall, St John’s, St Michael’s, St Peter’s and Wolborough Hill. It was a tremendous performance by the whole squad of eleven players. Edward Kivell deserves a special mention for scoring seven tries as does George Coombs for a fantastic performance for the forwards in all o f the games. Everyone gave 100% effort and the tackling was superb throughout. We should have won against St John’s to make it a clean sweep, but we were very pleased with the overall performance.

The next tournament was at Wolborough Hill and both A and B teams were chomping at the bit. The tournament involved six top rugby schools from the surrounding area and was played according to the RFU Under-Nine laws. Each school played each other in separate A and B competitions.

The Mount House A team had an easy win to begin with, and beat Wolborough by 25 points to 5 (the only try scored against Mount House all afternoon). A slightly stronger St Peter’s, Lympstone, side tackled well but a superb Mount House attack ended the game with a 10-0 win. George Coombs rucked the ball well and Richard Dawson made sure that the backs had good service throughout the afternoon. The A team boys, and girl (Lottie Fulton), won both games against King's Hall, Taunton ( 15-0)and St Michael’s, Tawstock, (30-0) with some fabulous tries by Ed Parker, Ed Kivell and Joe Whaley.

The final was against Plymouth College who had also won all o f its games. It was a closely fought match and both sides tackled well. Mount House put on a final surge towards the end o f the second half and Tom Painter managed to ground a try by dragging four o f the Plymouth College boys over with him. The final result (5-0) made Mount House the triumphant winners o f the tournament.

In the B Team competition the Mount House team started off slowly but soon gained in confidence. The first game against Wolborough was a test for both teams as this was their first tournament of the season. James Lewis ran in the only try o f the game and Mount House won 5-0. It soon became clear that the B team meant business. Joshua Lee made several charges at the opposition and scored several tries. The defence was outstanding throughout leaving the opposition no way through.The final game was also against Plymouth College. Sid Harris scored two fine individual tries as did Joshua Lee and the

final score (20-5) saw Mount House champions o f the B team competition.

The next tournament was at St Michael’s, Tawstock and the teams arrived slightly sleepy from the long journey. It was a disappointing start to the tournament with tackles missed, but Mount House still managed to beat Wolborough and St Michael’s easily. However, the match against St Peter’s was a much better performance with a great deal of determination shown by the whole team. Some good running by Joe Whaley and Ed Kivell made sure o f our place in the top three in the tournament.

The next game was against St John’s who had beaten us earlier in the season. In a thrilling game we ended with a 10-all draw, leaving us one match to play and a chance o f winning the competition.

In the end, Plymouth College proved too much for our defence in the last game and strolled in three tries towards the end o f the second half. Overall, a reasonable performance but much work was to be

done if we were to come out on top in the Mount House Tournament.

Again the tournament at home was as exciting as all the others with the added bonus o f being on home turf. Plymouth College and Mount House soon established themselves as the teams to beat and went through all their games unbeaten to face each other. It was a thrilling game with great determination from both sides ending in a draw. It was an excellent end to the season and the boys deserve much praise for their efforts.

Leigh BarnardThe Record

Played 19; Won 15; Drew 2; Lost 2; For 310; A gainst 55

Winners o f the 1999 Wolborough Hill Tournament.Joint Winners o f the 1999 Mount House Tournament.Runners Up at the 1999 St Peter’s Tournament Third place at the 1999 St M ichael’s Tournament.

(The teams are listed, opposite.)

58

Fanfare 1999-2000

Devon Prep Schools XV: 34 - Somerset Prep Schools XV: 21

Since 1977 the prep schools o f Devon and Somerset have played a match to mark the end of the Christmas Term. This year Mount House has broken its previous record with seven players selected for the county team. Indeed, it would have been eight had centre Seamus Crawford, who played last year, not been selected for a special coaching session with the SW Region Cricket Academy!

Those selected were Patrick Pearson (prop), Tom Heal (hooker), Alexander Nail (lock), James Downie (No. 8), Stuart Smyth (scrum-half), William Dawson (wing) and Elliott Pickard and Alexander Cater (replacements). Stuart Smyth was given the additional honour o f captaining the Devon XV. Playing uphill, into a howling wind the Devon side played enterprising rugby displaying excellent handling skills in difficult conditions.

Although Somerset’s large pack dominated the opening exchanges, Devon responded to Somerset’s early try with three of their own. The second half was a more even affair, but Devon still scored three tries to Somerset’s two to ensure a deserved win.

John Symons

Senior Set Rugby

All four Sets were able to put out a team capable o f winning the Senior Set Rugby Cup this year. This equality provoked two exciting, but very different first round matches.

The Hawks v. Otters game was a gentlemanly meeting of minds with both sides looking to play good quality rugby. Passing and handling were o f a high standard and several good tries were scored in an open and well disciplined game. The Hawks emerged deserved victors, 20-7, at the end of an entertaining afternoon.

On Rowden meanwhile, a close impression o f WW1 had broken out as the Kangs and Owls settled several old scores. Both Sets contained a number o f ‘strong characters’ and no prisoners were taken in a passionately fought affair, in which skill was o f secondary importance to enthusiasm and commitment to the cause. In the end, the Owls sneaked home 10-5 with Alex Love driving over for the winning score in the dying moments.

The first match o f ‘Finals Afternoon’ had as its reward the avoidance o f the prize awarded annually to 19th century students who came bottom in the Cambridge University Tripos List (The Wooden Spoon)!

The curtain raiser between the Kangs and the Otters was very much one way traffic. The Kangs played excellent rugby throughout and emerged comfortable winners by 31 -8.

The Final was a very impressive match. A high standard of rugby was played by a group o f boys whose talents ranged from 1st XV to 3rd XV replacement. The Owls took the lead with a try by Luke Dale-Harris, only for the Hawks to equalise within minutes through Tom Heal. The 5-5 half time scoreline reflected the closeness o f the teams. Both sides had their chances in the second half, but fate smiled upon the Owls. John Yeomans produced a powerful drive to the line which earned him a try and the Owls a 10-5 victory.

John Symons

Junior Set RugbyUnder Nine A Team: (Rugby) Joe Whaley, George Coombs, Sam

Morgan, Richard Dawson (Captain), Ed Parker, Ed Kivell, Tom Painter, Henry Manning, Rory Oxenham, Bruce Fulton, Oliver Durant

Under Nine B Team: (Rugby) Nick Dashfield,, Joshua Lee, Christopher Morris, Sid Harris, Sebastian Jaques, Jo Hijazi, Isaac Jay, James Lewis, George Day-Robinson

The Set Matches were, as usual, very exciting. The Hawks worr the competition with two wins and one draw, and the Owls were runners-up, having won two and lost one game.

Malcolm Bassett

The winning side consisted of: R. Campbell, J. Adams, P. Martin,N. Batchelor, H. Cunningham, I. Hargreaves, and J. Lawson.

59

Fanfare 199&

-2000

(I)" O

O

As only one member o f the side, remained from the 1999 Season it was always going to be a season o f transition for this squad.

We were well beaten by Plymouth College, a team we have not beaten for around a decade now due to their team playing for local clubs throughout the season. Nevertheless, it is always a useful fixture in that it provides a learning experience for both coach and players.

The game against Wolborough was much closer despite a 3-0 defeat. We actually had more possession over the game but could not convert our chances. Our work rate was excellent and nobody disgraced themselves on the day.

Another excellent showing against Exeter brought a tremendous 3-0 win on a muddy pitch - much deserved after all the effort put in - the best result I can remember against Exeter Cathedral. Seb claimed two goals and Henry the other one.

The final game at Treliske was literally end-to-end from start to finish in one of the closest games I can remember in Colts football. Without Captain Alex Bunnell, the team fought bravely and a Charles Bassett penalty gave us a 1-1 draw at Half- Time. Despite a great lob from Seb Cater the game was eventually lost 3-2.

My thanks go to Hugh Walkington for all his support and enthusiasm with Colts Football.

Jonathan Banyard

Played 4. Won 1. Lost 3Goals: S. Cater 3, H. Cunningham, C. Bassett.Squad: E. Dawson, J. Barkwell, J. Righton,A. Bunnell (Capt.), W. Day-Robinson,N. Batchelor, N. Blackwood, P. Martin, S. Cater, H. Cunningham, J. Wheeler, C. Bassett.Also played: R. Campbell, T. Whaley.

Colts BThis was not a successful season in

terms of results, but the team made steady improvements towards their best result o f the season in their final match, which will hopefully be an encouraging omen for next year.

Our first game was against Plymouth College where we played with commendable enthusiasm but an almost complete lack o f organization, particularly in defence, to lose 6-1. Bassett played well in midfield, scoring a fine goal from a free kick. The second match was away at Wolborough Hill. The problem faced all season was the lack o f a reliable goal- scorer, but Cunningham H., joining the “B”s for this fixture, scored two good breakaway goals to leave us in the

fortunate position of leading 2-0 after fifteen minutes. Unfortunately, our opposition were nothing if not determined, and also more skilful in the way in which they passed the ball amongst themselves. They deservedly pulled themselves back into the game and, helped by a less competitive team performance from MHS in the second half, eventually went on to win 5-2. The final fixture o f the season was away - yet again - against Treliske. By this time, there was a far greater positional understanding in the team, and the passing was becoming far more reliable. Some positions were moved around in the team, and we ran out deserved winners by 3-1. Parker J., custodian for the season, made a couple o f good saves, displaying his

improved confidence and awareness. Campbell played particularly well at centre forward, and Oxenham impressed in a defensive midfield role. Whaley T. captained throughout the season with commendable determination, leading by example and never failing to encourage those around him.

Hugh Walkington

The following played in at least two matches:

Parker J., Painter T., Newsome R., Willetts S., Whaley T. (capt.), Paisley L., Bassett C., Adams J., Oxenham T., Blackwood S.,Franks T., Fishleigh J.

Colts A Soccer

60

Fanfare 1999-2000

Under 9s

C/>This was a short term and a short

season for the football. Much o f the term was typified by bad weather and those o f you that were present at the Plymouth College match will well remember the “It’s a knockout” type feel to the game with mud up to the knees. Nevertheless, the boys were keen to get going and enjoyed the training.

The first match was against St Peter’s, Lympstone for both the A and B teams.The A team found themselves up against a team that had already played three matches and they were well drilled. An early goal by St Peter’s soon put the pressure on but there was some excellent defending by George Coombs and Henry Manning. With some tactical changes at half-time, Mount House looked like they wanted to score. Everyone played hard and tackled well. It looked like the score was going to stay the same for the duration, but a lovely through ball by Henry Manning put Ed Kivell in the zone and he slotted the ball between the goal keeper’s legs to make the final score 1-1.

The B team game was a fast and furious match and both teams played extremely well. Isaac Jay stopped a few of their shots in goal and Joshua Lee played extremely well in the midfield. The man of the match was Rory Oxenham who scored all three goals, making the final score 3-3. If the game had gone on a little longer we could have won, but it was a fine performance by all.

Due to bad weather the next game was against Plymouth College who have always enjoyed the ‘local Derby’ challenge. The weather had been poor in the build up to the match and the pitch reflected this. If you were going to score you had to hit it hard if it was even to reach the goal let alone beat the keeper. Both the A and B teams played with determination but the hosts proved too much. The conditions were partly to blame but really we were no match for one or two o f their more experienced players. However, the hospitality was excellent and both sides could see the funny side o f the appalling conditions. Well done to all those involved.

Leigh Barnard

Under 9 A team: Richard Dawson, George Day Robinson, George Coombs, Henry Manning, Ed Parker, Ed Kivell, Jojo Hijazi

Under 9 B Team: Isaac Jay, Seb Jaques, Sam Morgan, Rory Oxenham, Joshua Lee, Bruce Fulton, Stuart Harris, James Lewis

61

Fanfare 1999-2000

COuo

62

wickets, but then batted with great determination, though aided by three dropped catches, managed to hang on for a draw, closing on 81 for 7.

We visited Blundell’s for the first time to play their Under 13 XI. Again we batted first, lost the early wicket o f Dominic Harding but Smyth; 51 n.o., and Crawford, 61 n.o., put on a splendid partnership o f 135, enabling us to close on 147 for 1 in 25 overs. The Blundell’s reply began well and they reached 67 before losing their first wicket. The fall o f regular wickets thereafter, Cater two, Downie two, and three run outs, saw them close on 122 for 7, off 25 overs, as the rain which had threatened all afternoon finally came to end the misery for all on a cold and damp afternoon.

The matches with K ing’s Hall and Falmouth CC both succumbed to the damp and miserable weather o f late May and early June. St Peter’s, Lympstone in the JET Cup were always likely to provide a stern test. The bowling and fielding were excellent, Heale, 3 for 15, and Downie, 2 for 11, were particularly effective, and we dismissed them for 82. Our batting never came to grips with some tight bowling and was not assisted by poor shots, only Cater, 15, and Dale-Harris, lln .o ., provided some excitement and took us close to winning, but we fell 5 runs short to close on 77 for9, off our allotted 25 overs.

During the leavers’ week we visited Plymouth College U13s. Sound batting

1st X IWithin a week o f returning to school

we entertained Exeter Cathedral School. Excellent batting by Stuart Smyth 44 and Seamus Crawford 78 n.o. enabled us to declare at tea on 139 for 2. The Exeter reply began with two quick wickets for Stuart Heale. The loss o f wickets at regular intervals to Dale-Harris, two; Cater, two; Batchelor, two; and Crawford, one, saw them bowled out for just 37 runs.

The visit to St M ichael’s, Tawstock in the JET Cup saw us total 127 for 6 in our allotted 25 overs. Crawford, 47n.o.; Downie, 19; and Pearson, 22n.o.; were the main contributors. St M ichael’s was bowled out for 60; Stuart Heale 3 for 7; Crawford 2 for 9; and Downie 2 for 13, were the most successful o f the bowlers.

The absence o f Crawford and Smyth for the first county round o f the Calypso Cup versus Penair School, Truro, the Cornish champions, showed a lack of depth in our batting. On a damp pitch we could only muster 69 for 9 in our thirty overs: Pickard, 15n.o., and Cunningham,12, the only ones to reach double figures. Penair lost an early wicket to Dale-Harris but thereafter batted without too many alarms to pass our total with 9 wickets and8 overs to spare.

St Michael’s, Tawstock then visited for our normal fixture. Crawford, 37; and Smyth, 44; again led the way, though a failure by later batsmen to accelerate the scoring saw us reach tea on 136 for 6; declared. St Michael’s lost three early

from Crawford (28), Harding (33), and Pickard (19), were the main contributors in a total o f 137 for 9 declared. Plymouth mounted a solid reply and looked to be heading for a comfortable win, but the loss o f quick wickets slowed their progress and they finished four runs short with three wickets left.

In damp conditions we travelled to Falmouth CC. On a good pitch the batsmen were able to play confidently and in just 25 overs amassed 157 for 4. David Watkins playing his first game scored 51, Crawford retired on 42, and James Downie struck a lusty 33. Falmouth found the bowling o f John Hawkins, 2 for 18, Alex Nail, 2 for 5, and James Batchelor, 2 for 11 difficult to cope with, and finished on 89 for 9.

The final match o f the season saw The Old Malthouse visit for the first time. In the half hour before lunch their opening bowlers rapidly reduced us to 35 for 5. The post lunch session saw a splendid recovery from Crawford, 85, and Cater, 25, who put on an undefeated 120 for the sixth wicket. The Old Malthouse started their reply solidly, and at 81 for 2 were well placed to win.

An excellent pick-up throw from Freddie Cunningham produced a vital wicket which prompted a collapse to 115 all out. Alex Cater, 3 for 31, and Paddy Pearson, 2 for 5, caused most damage.

A record o f five wins, two draws and two defeats was a good reflection of the

(continued, over)

1st XI, continued

performances o f the team throughout the term. The batting was heavily reliant on Seamus Crawford who scored 381 runs at an average o f 127, and duly won the Batting Cup. Stuart Smyth also scored runs regularly and with Crawford put together some excellent partnerships. The other batsmen tended to be inconsistent. In the bowling department we possessed good depth, Crawford, Heale, and Dale-Harris provided pace; Batchelor and Downie line and length; while Cater, with his off-spin, provided much needed variety, and was our leading wicket-taker, and duly won the bowling cup. We were lucky with the quality o f some o f our fielders. For the improvement he made, James Batchelor received the fielding cup.

Not for the first time the weather caused a few problems and our gratitude goes to the catering department, particularly Pat and Les whose wonderful teas are such a feature o f Mount House cricket. The matrons once again ensured that all teams were turned out in clean kit

despite the number o f matches and teams that were often playing. In difficult circumstances the various wickets were of the highest quality and a tribute to groundsman Eric Willcock.

Phil Stephens

These boys represented the 1st XI:S. Crawford (captain), S. Smyth, C. Lowe,J. Downie, A. Cater, P. Pearson, J. Batchelor,L. Dale-Harris, J. Tuckett, E. Pickard,D. Harding, S. Heale, F. Cunningham,D. Watkins, J. Hawkins, A.Nail, L.Nail,G .Armstrong, J.Killingbeck.

The RecordPlayed 9; Won 5; Drawn 2; Lost 2

vs Exeter Cathedral (h) Won by 103 runs vs St M ichael’s, Tawstock (a) Won by 68 runs vs Penair, Truro (h) Lost by 9 wickets vs St M ichael’s, Tawstock (h) Match drawn vs Blundell’s U13s (a) Won by 26 runs vs St Peter’s, Lympstone (a) Lost by 5 runs vs Plymouth College U13s (a) Match drawn vs Falmouth CC U13s (a) Won by 68 runs vs The Old Malthouse (h) Won by 34 runs

2nd X I

The weather in the first half o f term was dreadful, disrupting games lessons as well as matches. It was lucky therefore that this year’s 2nd XI comprised both talented and spirited individuals.

The season began with a visit to St Michael’s, Tawstock. Batting first, the home side found it difficult to score runs against a miserly, if wayward attack.Elliott Pickard, wicket keeper turned bowler, took 3-7 while Dominic Harding wiped out the middle order with 4-2. Chasing 58 to win, the match was over soon after tea with David Watkins (19no) and Jonathan Hawkins (1 lno) steering the side to an eight wicket win.

The team travelled to King’s Hall, Taunton with genuine belief that they could achieve victory over difficult opponents. Winning the toss and inserting the hosts soon proved a sound decision. After twenty minutes, King’s Hall had progressed to 12-3, but the rain that had threatened all day now descended in a relentless downpour that made cricket impossible. A disappointing end, made only slightly better by the memory of Luke Heracleous’s outstanding one-handed catch at mid-wicket.

John Symons

Fanfare 1999-2000

C/>uo

3rd X IThis was an excellent season at this level. Rarely can so many

players have started the season in this game who clearly knew one end o f the bat from the other, and the friendly competitive spirit within the game was reflected in their performances as a team.

Our first match was arranged against a Plymouth College Under 12 side. Playing away on an unfamiliar pitch, we lost the toss and were put in to bat. Killingbeck J. had an excellent innings, scoring 47 before being trapped LBW, and laying the foundation for a good score at tea o f 140 for 7. MHS declared, and then set about the task o f removing the opposition. This was not as straightforward as it might have been thanks to some inconsistent, not to say criminally wayward, bowling. Cumming R. bowled some wonderful spin which caught out three batsmen with the turn, but was also guilty o f too many wide deliveries which either contributed directly to the extras column or were picked off for four. However, the late bowling change which brought on Nail L. and Dawson W. proved key as they mopped up the four remaining batsmen in the space o f five overs shortly before the close, ensuring victory by 85 runs.

The second match was against St Petroc’s 1st XI - a tough assignment in any year, but this turned out to be a thrillingly close result. They batted first making 81 all out. Given that we were at one point 72 for 6, victory seemed assured, but panic in the lower order led to collapse and we fell two runs short, all out for 79. It was an unfortunate conclusion, but this was still a praiseworthy result against 1st XI opposition.

The final match was against King’s Hall, against whom we have not won at this level in 20 years. It was ironic therefore, that with a team clearly capable o f reversing that trend, and indeed with King’s Hall 23 for 3, the rain intervened to ensure that further play would have to be abandoned. Unfortunately, the 4th XI also lost out on the same day for the same reason.

An excellent season, with many fine performances. Selection was so difficult, that 16 players were used in three matches and a different captain was used for each one. Killingbeck fully deserved his promotion to Game 1 and many members o f the game featured in Under 12 fixtures which is hopefully a good omen for cricket in 2001. Our thanks to all the players for making this such an enjoyable term o f cricket, played in an excellent spirit throughout.

Hugh Walkington & Peter Hamilton-Leggett

The Record

P 3; W 1; L I ; 1 match abandoned

Colts AIt was always going to be a hard act to follow the vintage 1999

season but this group of boys had a very good season indeed - especially as none of the team from 1999 remained!

An excellent start was made at Exeter Cathedral School as a weak opposition could only score 16 all out thanks to good bowling from Josh Wheeler (4-3), Seb Cater (2-5), and Nick Batchelor (3-10). Local club Whitchurch could not find enough strength in depth to cope with a side high in confidence as Jack Barkwell (35) and Ed Dawson (38 not out) shared in a 40 run partnership before a rapid 19 from Alex Bunnell enabled us to declare at 162-7. 10 bowlers were used as Whitchurch were all out for 54.

Treliske was a strong side this year and despite three boys scoring 44 runs, the whole team was out for 58. Treliske knocked off the runs comfortably as we hit the lowest point of the season. A potentially difficult match against St Michael’s Tavistock got the team back on track. An excellent 42 from Henry Cunningham was the cornerstone of a 129-5 declaration and a super bowling spell from Josh (5-14) and Alex (3-28) saw us to a comfortable win with confidence and spirits restored.

Perhaps the highlight of the season was the match at Plymouth College. Josh scored a superb 42 which included 10 fours but Alex (15) was the only other batsman to score double figures as we reached 64 all out on a fast, dry, small pitch - not nearly good enough on a normal day! At 17-0, Plymouth was comfortable but at 17-3 it was suddenly an even game and outstanding bowling and catching from Josh (1-9), Alex (4- 19), Phillip Martin (2-10) and Seb (2-2) meant that Plymouth was 54 all out - a dramatic game indeed! Macdonalds made a small profit after that result!

Our final school match of the season saw another very exciting game indeed. St Peter’s was a talented side - and at 90-2 looked to be heading for 200. However, Seb’s best bowling of the season (5-20) reduced the home side to 136-9 declared. At 65-9 with 15 overs left, it seemed a hopeless case but a wonderful rearguard battle from Seb and Phillip lasted just 10 balls short of what would have been a historic draw.

We finished 3rd in The Devon Under 11s Daily Telegraph Tournament Finals this year but put up a spirited defence of the Trophy. Henry, Ed and Jack will form the basis of a very useful side next year.All in all, another very good season. My thanks go to Guy Canning for all his support and enthusiasm with Colts’ Cricket.

Jonathan BanyardPlayed 13 Won 9 Drawn 0 Lost 4

Results:vs Exeter Cathedral vs Whitchurch vs Treliskevs St Michael’s Tawstock vs Plymouth College vs St. Peter’s Lympstone Daily Telegraph Under 11 vs Hyde Parke vs St Michael’s, Tawstock vs Wolborough vs Exeter Prep vs Blackpool vs St John’s, Sidmouth vs Ipplepen

won by 8 wickets won by 100 runs lost by 9 wickets

won by 32 runs won by 21 runs lost by 52 runs

results:won by 42 runs won by 12 runs

lost by 7 runs lost by 14 runs

won by 20 runs won by 8 runs

won by 14 runs

64

Fanfare 1993-2000

Colts BMeteorologists will no doubt rationalize in the autumn that we

enjoyed some kind o f “normal summer” , suffering no more than average rainfall. The reality was very different; hardly a week passing by without serious interruptions to either practices or matches. True, o f five scheduled fixtures, only one, against Wolborough Hill, was actually cancelled, but the game against King’s Hall, Taunton was abandoned after thirty soggy minutes and the constant appearance, on practice days, o f storm clouds on the horizon resulted in the fact that this group o f boys was deprived o f the kind o f regular technical tuition necessary to make swift progress. Nevertheless, they remained an enthusiastic group and enjoyed, in their three completed fixtures, a measure o f success - the highlight for spectators, if not the coach, being the tied match against St Peter’s, Lympstone.

The season began with a comfortable win against Exeter Cathedral School. Here, William Day-Robinson and Jack Barkwell laid the basis for the victory with an opening partnership o f 41. The Mount House total of90 proved far too stiff a target for Exeter who crumbled to 28 all out, Rafe Dance taking 4-9.

After the abandonment o f The King’s Hall fixture, we entertained Plymouth College and for much o f the game looked likely to win again. Both lan Hargreaves and Rafe Dance, with 23 runs apiece, batted with much skill, and, despite Plymouth making a good start, in their attempt to pass our total o f 95, hostile bowling from Jake Parker, who shattered their middle order with four quick wickets, put us in a winning position. However, the team 's concentration then wavered, both bowling and

fielding lacked precision, and a determined ninth wicket partnership saw Plymouth home.

As things transpired, the season ended with the match against St Peter's Lympstone. In many ways this followed the same pattern as the game against Plymouth. Having totalled 82, Day-Robinson, Parker and Sam Willetts being the major contributors, St Peter’s were unable to cope with the bowling o f Robbie Campbell, who took three wickets, whilst some committed ground fielding and safe catching reduced them to 55-9. At this stage, though, once again we crazily appeared to think we had done enough and started to celebrate victory without trying too hard to take the final wicket. Consequently St Peter’s first stabilized and then accelerated towards their target. Increasingly they looked likely to achieve it and, indeed, with the scores equal failed to go for an easy single. The next delivery was missed by their No. 11 who then proceeded to waltz up the wicket which gave captain Tom Oxenham the chance to stump him and claim the tie.

A mixed season, then, which accurately reflected the strengths and weaknesses within this squad.

Many boys batted with a degree o f promise but only rarely could individuals be trusted to defend effectively against straight good-length deliveries. The most technically correct batsman was Ian Hargreaves who I am sure has both the talent and application to become a major force in his second year o f Colts cricket next summer. O f the remainder, William Day- Robinson, Rafe Dance, Robbie Campbell and Jake Parker can all strike the ball well but must be more careful in shot-selection if they are to develop the kind o f long innings which will turn a match. In the bowling department, Jake Parker and Rafe Dance were the most incisive and, given sunnier weather and longer practice sessions, would, 1 am sure, have become more accurate.

The fielding was adequate, without ever reaching the heights that the 1999 team achieved. The most committed player was Robbie Campbell who could always be relied upon to maintain concentration and saved countless runs at square-leg. The team was captained most impressively by wicketkeeper Tom Oxenham, who, despite being occasionally confused by the complexities o f fielding positions and bowling changes, kept encouraging his team with much gusto and vision. My thanks go to him and also the scoring team o f Tom Emerson, George Goldberg, Tom Whaley and George Coombs who ensured that the details o f each match were faithfully recorded on both board and book.

Guy CanningThe Record Played 3: Won 1; Lost 1; Tied 1The follow ing boys played fo r Colts B:Tom Oxenham (captain), Jack Adams, Jack Barkwell, Charles Bassett, Robbie Campbell, Rafe Dance, William Day-Robinson, Tom Franks, Ian Hargreaves, Doug Love, Jake Parker, George Tetley, Tom Whaley, Sam Willetts.

55

0)" D

O

66

This year’s U12 team was an extremely able group and one could immediately see why it had enjoyed so much success as Colts. Rain hindered many of the early season games lessons, but such was their enthusiasm for the game that many of them compensated by rushing to practise in the nets whenever a watery sun appeared from behind the clouds.

The U12s’ first opponent was Plymouth College. Batting in good conditions, most o f the Mount House batsmen registered with the scorers. Top run maker was Freddie Cunningham (27), but he was well supported by Stuart Heale (20) and Luke Heracleous (15). Plymouth lost wickets too quickly to launch a real threat to the Mount House total o f 100.Neil Hargreaves (3-9) and John Williams (3-19) did the damage, and Plymouth finally succumbed 28 runs short.

The second match of the term, against Whitchurch C.C., was played in cold, wet conditions. From 2.30pm to 6.00pm the rain never stopped. Batting first. Mount House looked comfortable against a limited attack; none more so than James Killingbeck who played with much common sense to achieve his 33 runs.Most o f the other batsmen also reached double figures, the pick being Jonathan Hare (15), Christopher O ’Brien (15) and John Williams (14). A teatime declaration at 115-6 gave the visitors a stiff target. It needed an adventurous, spirited reply to make the game interesting and keep the umpires from hypothermia. W hitchurch’s response was 54-2 off 29 overs. A draw was offered to the visitors at 5.45pm which was readily accepted.

After half term the team found itself back in cup action. The U12 had already beaten Plymouth College once this season, and so began their second round Calypso Cup match against them with considerable confidence. Tight bowling aided by good fielding and catching restricted Plymouth to a total o f 76-8 off their 30 overs. Neil Hargreaves (3-15) and John Williams (3- 17) were the bowlers who did most damage. Poor calling led to the unnecessary loss o f wickets at the start of the Mount House innings, but David Watkins (21), Stuart Heale (20n.o.) and John Williams (13no) saw Mount House home by six wickets.

A semi final against St John’s, Sidmouth, followed rapidly. Again Mount House restricted the opposition to 105-9, but this time the batsmen could not accelerate against some useful bowling and ended seven runs short.

In a fitting end to the season, the match against Blundell’s lasted six overs until a tremendous downpour flooded the Oval and brought a sudden end to the match.

Phil Stephens

U12 Cricket

Fanfare 1999-2000

Under 9 Cricket(Pictures opposite, below)

The year 2000 was to prove both a busy and successful season for the Mount House Under 9 Cricket teams. Six A Team matches and two B Team matches saw a 25% increase on the 98/99 fixture list - Mr Stephens obviously had much faith in the cricketing ability at the lower end of the School. Rarely have I enjoyed a cricket season so much. Many thanks to all who played, watched or coached throughout the term.

U nder 9 A X IAn unbeaten season in Cricket is not

quite as impressive as one in Rugby or Football. The timed match always offers the chance of a draw and it is often the case that in the desperate attempt to ensure that the match is not lost, a team will ensure that they have little or no chance of winning. It is all the more impressive, therefore, that the Under9 A Team managed not only an unbeaten season, but recorded the impressive feat of winning all five of the five matches played.

The eleven players (occasionally eight, depending on which type of cricket was being played) made a team, by any definition of the word. Desperate to win; to help and encourage each other; to back up whilst both batting and fielding; and, above all, to enjoy each other’s company. It was this, combined with no little natural ability and hard work in the nets, that made this team so special. The members have a rich future in the game and I look forward to monitoring their progress as they go through the school.

The Team was: Richard Dawson (Captain) Tom Painter, George Coombs,Isaac Jay, Ed Parker, Lottie Fulton, Rory Oxenham, Henry Manning, Joshua Lee, Macdara Duncan and Sebastian Jacques.

Results: Played 5 W on 5 Lost 0vs. TreliskeMount House 99 for 8 dec. (Coombs 35); Treliske 57 (Coombs 4 for 3, Jay 3 for 5) vs. St M ichael’s Tawstock Mount House 293 (Jay 19, Parker 13);St. Michael’s 188 (Dawson 4 for 5,Coombs 3 for10, L Fulton 2 for 4)vs. K ing’s Hall Taunton cancelled - rain vs. Plym outh CollegeMount House: 301 (Parker 24, Painter 15, Jay13, L Fulton 12); Plymouth 251 (Jay 2 for 5,L Fulton 1 for 8) vs. W olborough HillMount House: 260 (Parker 18, Dawson 12, Manning 12); Wolborough Hill 198 (R Dawson 2 for 5, Painter 2 for 2) vs. St Peter’sMount House: 275 (Coombs 14, Parker 11);St Peter’sl98 (Coombs 2 for 14,Oxenham 1 for 5)

Under 9 B VIIIThis season saw two matches played: one

against Plymouth College, and one against St Peter’s Lympstone. A narrow loss to Plymouth was balanced by a well earned win against St Peter’s, and the main aim of the season; to enjoy the game and play in the correct spirit, was evident in both matches

Souvenirs o f Sports Day

and practices alike. Many of this season’s players will be eligible for the under 9s in the year 2000 - 1 hope to see them all playing in the A team.

The following represented the team this season: S. Jaques, J. Lee, M. Duncan,J. Hijazi, E. Kivell, B. FultonrO. Durant,J. Whaley, C. Mann, A. Jones.

Rob M orse

R esults Played 2 W on T Lost 1

67

1999-2000

0)DgfCD

South West Prep School Athletics Championships, Millfield, Friday 16 June 2000

C OT3O

This was always going to be a very important meeting. It gave us a good idea of the athletes’ chances to qualify for the Nationals.

Our sole finalist in the Under 12 Girls 800m was Brittany Heal who despite a slow start worked her way up through the field to finish a creditable 6th position, with a new personal best time of2m54s.

This was a similar result in the Under 12 Boys’ events, where a very busy Phillip Martin ran in both the 800m and 1500m gaining a lot o f valuable experience as well as, a fair deal of fitness! The surprise package o f the Under 12s was James Righton who made his debut in the Boys’ Javelin, where he came an excellent fifth, with a throw o f 17m82cm.

Team performance of the day was the Under 13 Girls who won the title, and beat some very strong opposition in the shape of Millfield, Clifton, The Downs, Plymouth College, Taunton and fourteen other schools.

Individual performances in the 100m and 200m were fantastic. Venetia Maitland placing second in both, with personal best times o f 14.3s and 30.5s. A gutsy run in the 800m saw Tess Lawson gain sixth spot for valuable points, though a lesson on quick starts has to be learnt. New girl Anna Brown had a great run in the hurdles event to secure fourth place, as did Ellie Malcolm who also scored a fourth spot in the Long. However, she produced a new personal best height in the High Jump to take first place with a height o f lm20cm. Lucy Barkwell had a busy time competing in both the Javelin and Discus, where an excellent throw of 15m69cm gave her third spot in the Discus, backed up with a sixth place in the Javelin.

This was enough to give the girls first place, with 48 points,

second was Millfield with 46 points and third was Taunton with 37 points. A great result: well-done girls!

The Boys’ Under 13 team had strong opposition and gained 20 hard earned points to finish 9th out o f seventeen schools. Notable performances came from Stuart Heale, who, making his debut in the 400m, won the event in a time o f 64.4s and came a creditable 4th in the Javelin. James Killingbeck continued to improve with his 800m, clocking a time o f 2m39s for fifth place. In the 1500m Tom Heal found the heat very exhausting but still managed to stay focused on his running for a 4th place with a time of 5m27s.

Sadly we only had two girls in the Under 14 events. Elsie Newman found the experience too much during the Discus but managed to produce a new personal best and school record in the Javelin, with a throw o f 16m78cm. Lizzie Painter was looking in confident mood as she defended her title from the previous year. However, she was pushed all the way and had to dig deep in order to clear the winning height o f lm45cm. A good test o f her character and a great boost for the Nationals.

The Under 14 Boys had some creditable performances in the shape o f Seamus Crawford in the 200m and 400m where he came sixth in both races. George Armstrong was coming back into form and jum ped well in the high jum p with a clearance o f lm45cm to win silver. A below-average leap in the Triple Jump gained George a further point and a fifth spot with 9m65cm.

An unusual day for the athletes trying to qualify for the Nationals, as they normally go via the Kelly Trophy Match, which we, sadly, were unable to attend. However, some superb performances gave the coaching staff a lot o f hope for the rest of the season.

G eoff Whaley

National Prep School Athletics Championships, Stoke, Sunday 2nd July 2000

This was a very exciting trip as we took a relatively young and inexperienced group o f athletes, all eagerly ready to compete.

Track reportFirst on the track was Elliott Pickard in the Under 14 Boys’

75m Hurdles. Although he was a little nervous he ran a personal best time o f 12.9s missing the final by 0.1s. However, he should be very satisfied with an overall placing o f 8th on the day.

Phillip Martin, making his debut at the Nationals, found the going very tough, but a gutsy performance in the Under 12 Boys’ 1500m saw him improve his best time to 5m49s. Hopefully this will spur Phillip onto greater times in the future championships.

Brittany Heal also stepped onto the national track for her first time in the Under 12 Girls’ 800m. Running in the first heat she managed a time o f 2m48s finishing 13th overall, only 7 seconds off the bronze medal position.

Tess Lawson was again another girl making her nationals debut. She also ran in the 800m for Under 13 Girls. Tess found the very quick pace to the race difficult to join during the first lap. However, once she got into her usual rhythm she finished strongly for a good time o f 2m51s, and thirteenth overall.

An in-form Venetia Maitland was really looking forward to her 100m heat, a strong run saw her score a time o f 14.4s, narrowly missing the final by 0.1s. A bitter pill to swallow, especially when three o f the finalists ran 14.3s to qualify.However, all credit to Venetia, as she used the experience o f that race to spur her on in the 200m, where she ran a personal best time o f 29.4s to make the final. Nerves always play a big part in a sprint final and this was no exception. However, despite a slower time in the final she managed a very creditable seventh placing in the Under 13 Girls’ 200m.

A big gamble on the coach’s behalf very nearly paid off for Stuart Heale. Stuart was competing in the Under 13 400m for only the second time. A very strong and committed run saw Stuart register a creditable 64.8s to place fifth overall in the final. There is obviously a lot more to come from Stuart in the future.

Yet another debutant was James Killingbeck in the Boys’ Under 13 800m. A resilient run saw James achieve a very creditable time o f 2m39s for an overall placing o f 14th in the final.

Field reportLizzie Painter was our first field competitor, though not in her

usual guise o f high jumper. She made her debut in the Under 14 Girls’ Shot Putt, where she managed a putt o f 6m70cm for an overall placing o f 11th. However, when it came to Lizzie’s strong event she had quite a battle, especially as defending champion. After a long, and often interrupted, final it soon became clear who the three major players were. The height o f lm43cms proved to be the biggest challenge for Lizzie. However, she was successful at her third attempt and was looking in determined mood. Sadly it was not to be a repeat o f last year’s success. Only one girl cleared1 m46cm to win the title, and Lizzie was third on count-back. No amount o f words could commiserate Lizzie who should be really proud o f her past achievements, as well as those of the day.

Continuing Malcolm Bassett’s coaching success was Ellie Malcolm in the Girls’ Under 13 High Jump. Another newcomer to the National Championships, Ellie far exceeded her wildest dreams and cleared a new best height o f lm25cm to finish eighth overall in the final.

Another Mount House high jumper, in the shape of Tom Heal, competed in the Under 13 Boys’ final. Clearing lm 30cm Tom finished 13th overall. An excellent result considering that it is not Tom’s strongest or favoured event.

Finally we saw Stuart Heale in the Under 13 Boys’ Javelin. A below par throw for Stuart saw him reach 29m l 1cm for eighth position. Once again no amount o f words could console Stuart as the winning distance o f 35m64 was well within his own season’s best o f 36m78cm.

Also making her Nationals’ debut in the Javelin was Lucy Barkwell in the Under 13 Girls’ competition. Lucy gained good experience and a lot o f confidence despite a below par distance. Some training during the winter months, and the oncoming season, will see Lucy in a much stronger position, technique-wise.

All in all, a very encouraging weekend’s athletics. To get nine athletes to the finals is a great achievement in itself. At this point I would like to say a big thank you to Malcolm Bassett for all his efforts on coaching, not only the high jumpers, but also the long and triple jumpers. A huge debt o f gratitude to Mrs Carrie Lawson, who has continued to get the long distance runners running with such enthusiasm and commitment. I look forward to next season’s athletics with great anticipation.

G eoff Whaley

The Under 11 III o f Nicholas Batchelor, Henry Cunnningham and Edward Dawson enjoyed an excellent season, winning six and losing two matches to win the league title by just a few points. Nicholas Batchelor remained unbeaten, while Edward Dawson and Henry Cunningham enjoyed some good matches and vital wins between them.

For the first time in a number o f years we entertained St Michael’s, Tawstock, and regained the Dennis Ball Trophy with a convincing seven matches to two. Lottie Fulton and Henry Cunningham won matches for the Under 11s, while Tom Heal, Chris O ’Brien, Freddie Cunningham, Luke Heracleous and Elliott Pickard were successful for the senior side. Seven of the team are available next year.In the Inter-school Tournaments Elliott Pickard retained the Senior Trophy for Kangs with a convincing win over James Batchelor. Nicholas Batchelor (Hawks) defeated Henry Cunningham in the Intermediates, while Lottie Fulton (Owls) overcame Richard Dawson to win the Junior Title.

Since our involvement in the Devon Junior Leagues the standard o f Mount House squash has steadily improved. Our sincere gratitude goes to coach Peter Bond, whose enthusiastic approach has been a vital factor in our success, and in the popularity o f squash within the school.

Phil Stephens

SquashOnce again we entered teams in the Under 13 and Under 11

Devon Junior Leagues. The Under 13 III, Elliott Pickard, Luke Heracleous and James Batchelor encountered some of the best players, not only in Devon but in the country. So although Elliott Pickard is one o f the best players we have ever produced, he found some o f his opponents to be o f an exceptionally high standard. O f his ten matches during the year he won six and lost four. Luke and James enjoyed a couple o f wins each, but were often outplayed.

Fanfare 1999-2000

Set Cross-Country, Friday 28th January 2000

After several days o f hard frost, it was with great relief that the day o f the race proved to be ideal, with dry, mild conditions. The course was altered to miss out the lap around Herongate due to boggy conditions. Instead the race started o ff towards the field o f Rowden and Homelands. This gave the course a very demanding start. Once this lap was completed the course picked up the familiar route down to the mower shed and on to the bridge over the leat. The long run out to the Bungalow Field saw the race leaders make their break. Once past the Lodge it was a long slow climb past the Pavilion and on to the finish. All races were run with boys and girls together, but not in direct competition with each other. The first race was the Juniors, which proved to be a very close fought race with four runners locked together all the way to the finish. Edward Parker proved to be the winner just ahead o f first girl Lottie Fulton, with Rory Oxenham and Tom Lawson closely behind.Results o f Junior Boys

1st E. Parker2nd R. Oxenham3rd T. Lawson

Results o f Junior Girls1st. C. Fulton2nd. C. Dawson3rd C. LongThe Intermediate race was

excellent with one o f three boys looking capable o f winning. However, very strong determined running from Phillip Martin proved too much for the rest as he powered away from his pursuers up the final hill. That left Edward Dawson to fight it out with Jack

Lawson for the second spot. Unfortunately Jack slipped whilst trying to climb the final hill allowing Edward to come in second. The girls’ race was comfortably won by Brittany Heal, showing fine form with herrunning style.Results o f Intermediate boys

1st P Martin2nd E. Dawson3rd J. Lawson

Results o f Intermediate girls1st B. Heal2nd. E. Toynton3rd A. HealeThe senior race was a runaway

success for Tom Heal, who built up a massive lead on the first circuit o f the Bungalow Field. He was then able to use the tail-enders as targets to increase his lead further still. A very big effort came from Stuart Heale who managed also to use the tail-enders as help, and even closed the gap between Tom and himself. Stuart was closely followed by James Killingbeck. The girls’ race was a similar affair with Tess Lawson dominating the girls’ race and more than kept up with the leading group o f boys. Venetia Maitland also managed a good run to secure second place. New girl Anna Brown gained a very creditable third spot.Results of Senior boys

1st T. Heal2nd S. Heale3rd J. Killingbeck

Results o f Senior girls1st T. Lawson2nd V. Maitland3rd A. Brown

Geoff Whaley

70

Millennium Cross-Country Races, Grenville College, Friday 17th March 2000

This proved to be a very rewarding and enjoyable day’s racing. A lot of hard training had gone into producing six competitive teams ready to take part. Once the walk round the course was done, and the warm ups completed, it was time to race.

First up came the Under 9 Girls. A team of four runners, with the top three scoring points. A superb run saw Lottie Fulton lead from gun to tape. Charlotte Dawson coming in second, and Clare Long in third brilliantly backed this up, giving the trio the lowest possible score, to claim the trophy! Fourth runner was Hattie Cunningham, running a year young, who managed a creditable 17th out of 80 runners.

The dream start had been made by the Under 9 Girls, so how could the Under 9 Boys respond? The only way they know. A fiercely competitive run saw Ed Parker come in second with Tom Lawson (7 years old), making a brilliant third. It was down to whoever was going to come in third, as St Michael’s Tawstock also had two boys highly placed. The cheer from the girls came up as Richard Dawson rounded the bend and stormed in for eighth place and a second winning score for Mount House. What a start! A strong run from the fourth runner saw Tom Painter come in eleventh out of 84 runners.

Barely time to catch our breath and it was the turn of the Under 11 Girls. The first runner to register a place was Brittany Heal who was a close second. Ellie Toynton came in 12th overall and Sophie Liddell- Grainger managed to secure a creditable 22nd out of 112 runners. This was good enough to give the girls second overall in the team event.

The Boys’ Under 11 team competed in a huge field of 137 runners! Highest placed boy was Phillip Martin who came in at 16th closely followed by Ed Dawson, 19th, and James Righton, 20th. This close packing of the boys earned them third spot overall in the team event.

The Under 13 Girls’ team was very confident, and proved its mettle on the course. First girl home for the team was Tess Lawson in second spot, closely followed by Ellie Malcolm in fourth place, Anna Brown in 5th, and Venetia Maitland making sixth. This gave the girls the winning score for the overall team trophy.

The last race saw the Under 13 Boys in action. Although the boys were heavily into playing VIIs rugby, and busily preparing for the National Championships, they still gave it their all. Tom Heal stormed round the course for an excellent third place, followed closely, as ever, by Stuart Heale who secured fourth spot. An excellent run from James Killingbeck saw him finish ninth overall, giving the boys’ team second to round off a superb day’s running for the school.

There were 20 schools from the region competing, and Mount House was able to fly the flag well and truly high, finishing with three winning teams, two second, and one third, from six teams entered. A lot of time and effort has been given by the pupils, who would, like me, want to pass on their thanks to Carrie Lawson for all her coaching, enthusiasm and inspiration.

Geoff Whaley

_______________ GolfOne of the wettest summer

terms I can remember failed to dampen the enthusiasm of our hardy golfers! Golf Coaching has been taken on by several members of staff this term and the standards have improved considerably as a result.

In the Junior Final, Richard Dawson continued his family’s success in winning golf trophies at Mount House with a win over George Coombs, whilst William Dawson, beaten by brother David last year, won the Senior Final against Andrei Koranteng.

My thanks to the groundsmen for keeping the course in such good condition, despite the weather!

Jonathan Banyard

71

Fanfare 1999-2000 Boys ’ Indoor Hockey

(/)“U

O

The hockey term got off to a good start and a strong squad of about sixteen players quickly took shape. King’s Hall, .as usual, provided us with super hospitality and a fine afternoon o f hockey. We took A and B teams o f six, plus reserves. The B team lost both matches, though there were some promising players in Tom Heal, David Watkins and the budding goal-keeper George Clarke. Tom Heal scored a fine goal in the match against King’s Hall B. The A team was rather sleepy in its first game, and although Stuart Smyth led by example, slotting home a super goal, the team went down 2-1. In the last game of the afternoon Mount House A came to form: Stuart Smyth controlling the middle and George Armstrong and Elliott Pickard pushing hard up front. Elliott scored the first goal and just got the last touch to a goal set up by Stuart. George scored the third goal o f a 3-0 win. The defending by Andrew MacDougall and Christian Lowe was solid and well co-ordinated. Seamus Crawford had a good game in goal.

Our second fixture was against Exeter Cathedral School. They were having a good season and had more match experience than ourselves. Again our B team was a little hesitant and unsure so played below its capabilities, losing by

narrow margins in both its games. Tom Heal, David Watkins and Henry Cunningham all gave a good account o f themselves. Mount House A team were on fine form and played well from the start. Fine defending by Seamus Crawford, Andrew MacDougall and Christian Lowe allowed George Armstrong and Elliott Pickard to score goals (George 3 and Elliott 4). Stuart Smyth worked incredibly hard, covering every square inch o f the pitch as centre-half: he also notched up four very fine goals.

Malcolm BassettResultsMount House A vs. King's Hall A W 3-0; B L 1-2 Exeter Cathedral A W 4-0; B W 7-0 Mount House B vs. King's Hall A L 4-0; B L3-1 Exeter Cathedral A L 1 -0; B L 2-0A squad S. Crawford, A. MacDougall, C. Lowe, S. Smyth (captain), E. Pickard, G. Armstrong B squad G. Clarke, D. Watkins, N. Hargreaves, R. Cumming, L. Dale-Harris, T. Heal, J. Edwards, H. Cunningham, J. Hawkins

72

Fanfare 1999-2000

Girls ’ Hockey

c/> As the girls’ hockey at Mount House becomes more established and the girls more skilled, we are enjoying a greater number o f exciting matches and a growing enthusiasm for training. Over the course of the season we have watched some very encouraging new talents developing, not least Tiggy Townsend, Eleanor Durant, Brittany Heal and Ella Toynton, while the older, U13, girls have become more focused and able to play set moves for maximum benefit.

With the fantastic news that an all weather pitch should be available shortly, hopes are high for more evenly matched contests and the opportunity to expand the game. After a disappointing season, with several results that do not reflect the effort and drive of the teams, we were thrilled to see the U1 Is defeat Stover (on grass) and prove that determination and thoughtful play can lead to victory. Many thanks also for the most welcome parental support.

The U 13 team, now departed to far flung public schools, will bring enthusiasm and commitment to their new teams, while the younger players will be the backbone o f next year’s group, bringing rather more experience to assist the rest o f the squad. Julia Toynton and Venetia Maitland have demonstrated great tenacity and managed to combine well executed moves with impressive pace while Lucy Barkwell has gone from strength to strength in the defensive positions, ending up as a formidable goal-keeper. Ellie Malcolm also has been a reliably effective member o f the team.

Everyone is pleased to see the girls’ hockey becoming more prominent, and we look forward to greater successes next year, with some promising talent coming through.

Jennie Kibblewhite

73

1999-2000

0)13

CD

Netball

V )TJO

The Netball season began rather hesitantly this year with the girls (and me!) getting used to the idea of Netball without Miss Dean. We all pulled together and worked hard to improve existing techniques, as well as learning a few new ones. I have been thoroughly impressed with the enthusiasm and increasing determination to succeed, shown by the girls in all age groups, and congratulate them in achieving their most outstanding Netball results since the sport was started at Mount House.

The highlight o f the Christmas Term was undoubtedly the U13 team’s win over St John’s School Sidmouth, by an enormous 40 goals to 5. This game demonstrated the excellent teamwork and outstanding skill o f players such as Lizzie Painter, Venetia Maitland (only an U12 age) and Emma Kennedy.

The double win o f the U 10 and U11 teams against St Dunstan’s College produced a joint result o f 37 goals to 3. Some excellent shooting from Olivia Haywood and Charlotte Cowie (U10) was produced, along with accurate, smooth passing in the centre third by Brittany Heal and Amelia Townsend (U11).

Not to be outdone, the U9 team, many o f whom had never played Netball before, came second out o f six in their first tournament at St Peter’s Lympstone, before winning the Wolborough Hill Tournament two weeks later. The formidable duo o f Charlotte Dawson and Clare Long were aided by Hattie Cunningham, a new and confident player to the game.

After a Christmas Term of throwing, catching, and passing practice the teams were subjected to game plans, patterns, and team skills. The concept o f thinking ahead was learnt, using players to aid moves and swap positions. With these strategies in mind, the Easter Term proved to be the most successful term yet.

During the term the teams played a total o f 21 matches. They won 19 and lost2 giving a 90% win rate. Schools such as King’s Hall, Plymouth College, Exeter Cathedral and Wolborough Hill had to endure losing to the outstanding skill o f our girls. The total number o f goals scored by Mount House was a huge 249, with the total number of goals scored against Mount House being only 76.

The U13, U12 and U10 teams were unbeaten all term with the U 11 and U9 teams only losing one game each. The U 11 and U10 teams were both St Dunstan’s Tournament winners, sweeping the board with their victories.

Having achieved such good results throughout the term, it was a shame that the U13 team could not continue their

success at the IAPS National Tournament. They played with utter determination and 1 could not have asked for a more dedicated team. 1 was very proud o f their efforts against such strong opposition and look forward to giving the competition our best shot again next year.

Rosie Warner

The teams this year were:

U13/U12: L.Bialick, L.Painter, P.Johnstone- Burt, E.Litchfield, S.Seymour, E.Newman, S.Zajicek, E.Kennedy, L.Barkwell, A.Brown,

R.Kimber, V.Maitland, E.Malcolm, J.Toynton, T.Lawson, E.Lummis, T.Young-Jamieson.

U11/U10: L.Cumming, B.Heal, A.Heale, T.Johnstone-Burt, A.Townsend, E.Toynton,E.Zajicek, E.Durant, A.Fulton, I.Jacques, S.Liddell-Grainger, A.Balm. M.Clavin,C.Cowie, D.Fulton, O.Haywood, I.Malcolm, K.Liggins, K.MacDougall, L.Studholme,L.Newman.

U9: L.Batchelor, G.Insley, H.Parfitt, C.Dawson (and U10), C.Long (and U10), E.Speller,F.Young-Jamieson, H.Cunningham, L,Manning. A.Haywood, H.Walker.

Netb

all

(con

tinue

d)

Fanfare 1999-2000 Sport

:anfare 1999-2000

Rounders

(I > T3 O

The girls endured a particularly wet rounders season this year with many matches cancelled due to bad weather. However, this did not stop the enjoyment o f the remaining matches or the increasingly impressive match results.

The U 13 and U 11 squads showed good team spirit and determination during their matches against Exeter Cathedral School, with Julia Toynton (U13) and Lucy Barkwell (U13) demonstrating some extremely efficient fielding skills. Ella Toynton (U 11) and India Jaques (U 11) produced some excellent catches whilst Toni Fulton sprinted her way to many a rounder.

The U13 team bravely took on St Michael’s Tawstock twice during the term, once in a friendly match and once during the first round o f the JET Competition.Both matches were tough with each side fighting for victory. Mount House used its skills effectively and Venetia Maitland held the team together well. The final results were close and reflected the evenly matched sides.

The U 11 team came home victorious from its match against St Dunstan’s, having played an outstanding game o f Rounders. Mackenzie Clavin fielded brilliantly and the opposition did not have a chance to score enough rounders to win.

Lizzie Painter amazed spectators with her accurate batting technique during the U13s’ match against St Peter’s, and Sophia Seymour managed to stump out players at second post confidently. Although Mount House didn't win the match, the girls enjoyed an amicable afternoon with the St Peter’s team.

The U9 squad had a very successful season. The match against St John’s Sidmouth was cancelled, but it enjoyed two good wins against St Petroc’s (18 - 10) and Wolborough Hill ( 15-9) . Gemma Insley proved herself to be a consistently accurate bowler and Lottie Fulton held the game together well as an efficient backstop. Emily Speller and Lucy Manning were very good deeps, whilst Holly Walker made her debut with a confident batting technique.

Rosie Warner

The squads were as follow s:

U9: L.Batchelor, G.Insley, H.Parfitt, C.Dawson, C.Long, E.Speller, F.Young-Jamieson,H.Cunningham, L.Manning, N.Haywood,H.Walker.

U10/U11: L.Cumming, B.Heal, A.Heale, T.Johnstone-Burt, A.Townsend, E.Toynton,

E.Zajicek, E.Durant, A.Fulton, I.Jaques, S.Liddell-Grainger, A.Balm, M.Clavin, C.Cowie, D.Fulton, O.Haywood, I.Malcolm, K.Liggins, K.MacDougall, L.Studholme, L.Newman.

U12/U13: L.Bialick, L.Painter, P.Johnstone- Burt, E.Litchfield, S.Seymour, E.Newman,S.Zajicek, L.Barkwell, A.Brown, R.Kimber, V.Maitland, E.Malcolm, J.Toynton, T.Lawson,E.Lummis, T.Young-Jamieson.

76

Fanfare 1993-2000

Rounders Swimming Gala

The first Swimming Gala of the new millennium proved to be very exciting and brought with it six new records. The proceedings began with the Open Butterfly which was won by C O’Brien (Ow) for the second year running. Next came the U9 (1L) Freestyle races, where L Fulton (Ow) was the fastest out of the sixteen swimmers who took part. She was awarded the cup for her excellent efforts.

The Boys’ Freestyle events were equally exciting with H Cunningham (H), J Parker (Ot), C O’Brien (Ow) and E Pickard (K) winning their events.

The Girls’ Freestyle races were extremely competitive ones and two new records were created by M Clavin (Ow) and E Malcolm (K). B Heal (H) won the U11 (1L) Freestyle.

The Backstroke events were equally impressive. Winners for their age groups were G Tetley (Ot), S Jenks (K) and A Love (Ow). A MacDougall (Ot) won the cup for the 012 (2L) Backstroke event.

The Breastroke (1L) events were won by S Scoble (H) and G Clarke (Ow). Cups for the U ll ( 1L) and the 012 (2L) events went to A Townsend (H) and A Cater (Ot) respectively.

The U 12 Medley Relay was won by the Owls team comprising A Love, G Clarke, A Mildmay-White and C O’Brien in a record breaking time. The previous record for this event had remained unbroken for eight years.

The 012 Medley Relay saw another record being smashed. E Tuckett, A Cater, G Armstrong and A MacDougall, all Otters, ended the five-year run of the previous record.

The Freestyle Relays produced two more new records. The U9 Owls team comprising T Painter, E Kivell, H Manning and L Fulton ended another previous record that had stood untouched for fifteen years! The U12 Hawks team that included V Maitland, L Barkwell, T Heal and F Cunningham ended the eight-year record that had been held for this event. O Browne, D Harding, L Nail and A Nail, all Owls, won the 012 (2L) Freestyle Relay Cup.

J Roobottom was awarded the Taylor Cup for ‘Best Swim of the Gala’ owing to his extraordinary efforts on the day.

Scores between Hawks and Owls had been very close throughout the Gala and tension mounted in the final race, the 012 (2L) Freestyle Relay, which Hawks had to win in order to gain the Set Cup. The above mentioned Owls won this event, thus capturing the Set Cup. The whole set then went on to win the Dolphin Relay too! Final scores were:

Owls 112'AHawks 102Kangs 9914Otters 86

It was a very enjoyable afternoon and despite the awful weather experienced in swimming sessions over the term, there were examples of first rate swimming.

My thanks to all the Staff and pupils who assisted in the running of this event and also to Lady Newman for presenting the prizes.

Lindsay Young

77

Fanfare 1999-2000

Mount House Wanderers 2000

Because of the bad weather, only one fixture was completed this year. Luckily a super afternoon o f sunshine enabled the annual Banyard XI v Elworthy XI to take place and, as usual, it was played in a great spirit o f fun-filled rivalry.

Banyard’s XI won the toss and elected to bat. After a slightly sticky start, an outstanding innings by Rob Morse (54 not out) rescued the situation. Toby Borradaile (28), Chris Morgan (17) and Tom Inman (12) also put in useful performances to enable us to reach 149 after the 30 overs limit. For Elworthy’s XI, Quintus Travis (3-22), John Elworthy (2-18), Chris Cole (1-3) and the Cashell brothers all bowled particularly well.

In reply, things looked rather bleak for Elworthy’s team at 107-8 despite an excellent innings from Captain John (47 not out). A positive 35 not out from Chris Cashell took them to an exciting win by 1 wicket! Patrick Cashell’s kindness ensured that The Peter Tavy Inn provided the customary icing on the cake to the proceedings.

Jonathan Banyard

The teams: R. Allen, J. Hawkins, S. Crawford, R. Morse, T. Hawkins, T. Inman, C. Kivell,T. Borradaile, C. Morgan, P. Hamilton-Leggett,J. Banyard, J. Elworthy, C. Redman, Q. Travis, W. Churcher, C. Cole, T. Cashell, S. Carter,N. Howe, C. Cashell, S. MacDougall, D. Ward.

6, W illowby Park, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6AN

2nd December, 1999Dear Charles,

I should like first to thank you for your very kind welcome to Mount House last week which completed a happy day. Memories, as ever, were stirred and I have unearthed, and would like you to have, the clearer o f my two photographs o f the 1943 team, which shows David Somerset.He was an energetic, persistent centre forward and a good leader, though not as skilled as his successor, Gordon Lang, whose character and short life will not be forgotten by those who knew him. O f the others - Jeremy Lucas is Robert Halliday’s father-in-law; Richard Bird is a retired schoolmaster living in Plymouth - he

and 1 had day long encounters in the holidays at every indoor and outdoor game he knew; Christopher Peile, younger son o f Vice Admiral Sir Lancelot Peile, retired as, at least, a Wing Commander; Simon Nicolls began his naval career twice. Another memorable character was Jeremy Black; 1 believe the irrepressible Hugh Lucas is in Australia; Doctor Jimmy Morris you will know, 1 believe.Possibly Sims followed his father as a dentist and Brian his, as a solicitor; Bartholomew features in games groups in Kelly’s pavilion.The photographer was in this case, and normally, the legendary Doctor Lowndes, complete with ancient plate camera (tripod, dark cloth, long exposures). He did the developing too.

J. M. Gelsthorpe

78

Fanfare 1999-2000

Associates ’ News

>

36 Coote Sir Christopher telephoned to check up on his old school. He moved to Lockers Park from Mount House, before going on to Winchester and Oxford.

43 Somerset David recently contacted the school re the length o f time the school spent in Helston during 1939 and 1940. He is convinced that some o f the school was in Helston for two terms, not one as suggested elsewhere. His ‘evidence' included two charming letters that he wrote from Helston as a boy, one o f which was dated March 1940. Any further evidence, for or against, would be most welcome. David is currently a Governor at Wellington College.

46 Lockton Michael, who obtained his Physics degree fromExeter College, Oxford, has recently retired after a 30 year career in electrical engineering and 14 years at BSI.

46 Lockton Peter has recently retired as MD o f Rolls Royce -Asia and now lives in Delhi, India. He was awarded a CBE in 1989 for services to the export industry.

47 James Roger was one o f two sexagenarians whojourneyed by bicycle across Spain and whose story is mentioned below. Roger sadly passed away in1998.

49 Perkin Gerry visited the school with his wife during theSummer and also met HPW. He now lives in Australia and has recently retired from the police. He can be contacted on clawed@ozemail.com.au

50 James Brian kindly donated a book entitled ‘The Trans-Iberian Challenge’ to the Library. The book is the story of his brother’s journey by bicycle across Spain.

52 Mcintyre Christopher died in a road accident in Uganda in1999, having completed 40 years o f tea planting in East Africa. He leaves his wife, Linda, his son, Charles and daughter Caroline, to whom we offer our deepest sympathies.

55 Hellens Jeremy is working as an accountant for twocharities in London. He was previously in the Civil Service with the Department o f Trade and Industry.

59 Matthew Roger is this year’s Mayor o f Tavistock.67 Duff Anthony lives in Cornwall and lectures on water

sports in Falmouth.69 Tolfree Paul is managing director o f Julian Fitter

Associates, independent financial advisers in Shaftesbury.

71 Bond Anthony is Head o f English at a school inNottingham.

71 Hosking Michael works in the wine trade in London. He ismarried with one son. His father and brothers were all at MHS when the school was in Plymouth. All went on to Blundell’s.

71 Needham Simon has recently won selection to the British Archery team and is the current British record holder for the FITA. Simon wrote to say that he was first taught archery while at Mount House where his teacher was Ben Morland.

71 Richards Nicholas has been with Standard Life untilrecently when he moved to G.E. Insurance in Dorking. He is married with two girls.

71 Young J.R. works for BT and is based in Swindon. He ismarried with two girls and a boy.

73 MackintoshRoss is married with three children and lives in Hawkshead, Cumbria where he works for the National Trust.

73 Porter Rod is commanding his battalion in N.Ireland. Heis married to Marienne, a teacher, and they have three boys.

73 Richards Philip is married with two boys and works in thepublishing department o f Heineman’s in Oxford.

75 Melvin David works for an expanding consultancycompany in London. He lives near Guildford with his wife and four children.

75 Sharp John is now flying for Caledonian Airways,having completed 12 years with the RAF.

76 Pollinger Jonathan is a computer technician withMarlborough Stirling in Cheltenham. He has sung bass/baritone with the Philharmonia Orchestra and now sings with the Crouch End Festival Chorus.

76 Prowse Andrew is working for British Gas in Devon. Helives in Ugborough and is married with a son aged six.

77 Weir Christopher is now Chief Engineer with LucasAerospace. He is married with three children and lives in Solihull.

77 Woodard Rupert is now working for Excursion Ltd., a firmof travel agents. He is married with three boys.

78 Grier-Rees Gavin visited the school with his fiancee duringthe Christmas Term. He is planning to move to Devon from Hampshire and hopes to send his children to Mount House.

78 Hanan Hugh is teaching Law at St. Austell College,Cornwall.

78 Wood Jonathan works for BASF, the German chemicalgiant, in Heidelberg. He is married to a German girl and keeps up his clarinet playing with a number o f local ensembles.

79 Wright Richard farms near Ashburton, South Island, NewZealand. He farms two dairy herds comprising 2700 cows. He is married to a New Zealand girl and they have a daughter and two sons.

79 Wright Simon is married and has a son and a daughter.They live and farm near Rye where they keep Sussex cattle and Romney sheep.

80 de Glanville Philip continues to play rugby for Bath andwas an important member of the England XV that contested the 1999 World Cup.

80 Mackenzie James is running a firm o f Estate Agents called ‘Ocean’ in Bristol. He is married with three children.

80 Pugh Lewis has returned to the UK after living in S.Africa. He has a degree in Maritime Law and is currently reading for his LLM (M aster’s Degree) in International Law and Law on War at Jesus College, Cambridge. He plans to join the army later this year. He met HPW recently who was able to tell him about his time at Jesus in 1940s.

81 Cowling James is engaged and will marry in Heidelberg,Germany in Summer 2000.

82 Cameron Charles married Fiona in 1998 and, having beeninvalided out o f the Army, is currently running their Corporate Christmas Company in Perthshire.

82 Mcintyre Charles married Zara, the sister o f a Winchester contemporary, in June 1999. He is a Director of APAX, a corporate finance company in London.

82 Wiltshire Tim is working as a yacht broker in London.82 Woodard Jolyon is in the Fleet Air Arm flying helicopters.

He is engaged and his future wife is an RAF pilot.82 Wright Sean is working in London for IAXIS, a leading

telecommunications firm. He is married and has twins.

79

Fanfare 1999-2000

Associates ’ News

83 Keay Charles has been in publishing in London, but iscurrently considering taking Holy Orders.

83 Weir Peter is a schoolteacher and is head o f English at alarge comprehensive in Birmingham. He lives in Solihull and is married with a daughter.

84 Allerton Christopher's engagement to Miss AmandaMoorhouse from Yorkshire was announced in The Daily Telegraph.

84 Beckly John is now a doctor, married and living in Sydney, Australia.

84 Motley Piers is teaching English and Media Studies atPaignton Community College.

84 Wilson Mark is doing a second degree in computers whileworking in London for the banking firm, J.P. Morgan.

85 Cameron Alasdair is a landscape gardener and runs anexpanding business at The Chelsea Gardener in London.

85 Carter James works in Bristol for a firm called Co:Media,designing and producing brochures.

85 Gillmore Charles has become engaged this year to Rebecca (as announced in The Times).

85 Parshall David is working with General Electric in Cardiff as a systems analyst.

85 Wright Thomas is learning the wine business withOddbins in London.

86 Beckly James is reading for a Building Surveyor degree atPlymouth University.

86 James Jonathan is Head of the corporate legal departmentwith Jordans in Bristol. Three years ago he founded a symphony orchestra called the New Bristol Sinfonia o f which he is currently conductor. He is happily married to a doctor.

86 Mackie Hamish is now a renowned sculptor, currently selling his work all over the world at exorbitant prices.

86 Madgwick Edward is now the dentist for 40 Commando, having won his Green Beret in March 1999. He has been at sea in the Med on HMS OCEAN since last August, taking the opportunity to pass his Open Water Diving exams.

86 Wilson Paul is working for a marketing agency in London,having, like brother Mark, completed a second degree, in marketing.

87 Carter David is living in London, earning a living as anactor.

88 Cameron Simon obtained a BA in Politics and LocalGovernment from Northumbria and is currently seeking employment in London.

89 Ball Robin has joined a travel company, Hayes andJarvis, in London following a seven month trip to South America and other distant lands.

90 Hurst Adam is continuing his rugby career in theThames Valley and is currently playing for Reading in Jewson National League 1.

90 Mackenzie David is working in his brother James's firm of Estate Agents in Bristol.

90 Scofield Conrad is at York University reading for a MSc inEcology and Environmental Management. He already has a BSc in Animal Biology from Edinburgh.

91 Follett Michael is currently tutoring the delightfulchildren of a Swiss couple anxious that their children reach Eton and Wycombe Abbey. He wrote from the French Alps where the family was skiing, so life was not too bad!

91 Mackie Archie is busy studying at Cirencester AgriculturalCollege.

91 Owen Nicholas is working for Sema in their ITdepartment.

91 Stone Duncan is now studying at the European School ofLaw in Bruges after his MA in Law at Oxford. He is passionately interested in environmental law.

91 Wyer Mark is studying for accountancy exams in Bristolhaving obtained a degree in Maths at Bristol.

92 Lytle Rob is studying Hydrography at Plymouth. Sailingremains a passion and he spent last summer sailing around Ireland.

92 Stone Andrew is at the Marine School at Falmouthwhere he is following an HND course in Marine Leisure Studies.

93 Borradaile Charles is studying at the West o f EnglandUniversity, Bristol.

93 Cass Philip is spending his gap year in New Zealandworking in a school in Timaru, near Christchurch. He intends visiting Australia as well before returning to Reading University to read Land Management.

! 93 Cass David is very involved with CCF at MonktonCombe, having enjoyed a camp at Episkopi in Cyprus with the Light Infantry. He is planning to join the army after A Levels in Geography,Biology and Maths.

93 Frappell William is in his last year at Blundell’s where he iscaptain o f Tennis and Squash.

93 Keeler William is studying at the West o f EnglandUniversity, Bristol.

93 Lawrence John has left St Edward’s, Oxford havingcaptained their 1 st XV in his final year. He is currently studying Ceramic Design at The London Institute.

93 Lytle Andrew is reading Chemistry at Newcastle, havingspent his gap year as a chalet boy in France and then working for his Yachtmaster Offshore certificate. He also helped a friend sail his boat to Gibraltar.

94 Armstrong Martin has left King’s, Bruton and is hoping tostudy English with creative writing before moving into media studies.

94 BabbingtonThomas has left Blundell’s and will be longremembered for an outstanding performance in the school’s production o f ‘Cabaret’.

94 Broderick Lee has left K ing’s, Bruton and is currentlyretaking his A Levels to reapply for university next year. At King's, he played rugby and basketball and was particularly successful as a public speaker and reader o f poetry.

94 Clarke Tom is in Australia for his gap year after A Levels.He is busy writing short-film scripts, is involved in the music industry and has recently had an anthology o f his writing published. He is to study Sociology at the University o f Wales, Swansea in September.

94 Clayton Benjy is currently working for On Digital in Plymouth.

94 James Philip followed his brother, Jonathan, to Radleyand this year achieved A grades in his four A Levels. He is reading Geography at Cambridge.

94 Jarrett-KerrLawrence achieved good A levels in English,Geography & Business Studies at King’s, Bruton and has spent the summer doing a sailing and wind surfing instructor’s course in Greece.

80

Fanfare 1999-2000

Associates ’ News

94 Larsen

*

> 94

94

Luke

Peam

94 Petrie

94 Radcliffe

94 Seldon

94 Seldon

94 Kitson John achieved excellent A Level results and has now left Sherborne to read Ancient History at Bristol.Gavin left Blundell’s with three A grade A levels, having captained a good Blundell’s 1st XV in his final year.William has left Sherborne and is now at St Andrew’s, reading Social Anthropology.Richard was a School Prefect and head o f house in his final year at King’s, Bruton. He represented King’s at a number o f sports, especially basketball. He is reading Business Studies at the West o f England University.James has left Dean Close with three very good A Levels, including an A in History.Michael has left St Edward's, Oxford with three very good A levels and is currently reading Geography at Reading. At St Edward’s Michael played 1st XI Soccer, was a House Prefect and gained a Gold Medal in the Duke o f Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.John earned outstanding results in his A levels at Stonyhurst and is currently reading Mathematics at Cambridge.William gained excellent A levels in Maths, Physics and Chemistry. He has been a splendid gap year student with us this year.

Whatmough Nick has left Sherborne and is nowfollowing an Arts Foundation Course at Central St Martins.Alex is studying A Levels in Art, DT and Physics at Tavistock College and is looking to read Design and Realisation at university after a gap year in industry.Ben captained the Sherborne I st XV on their wonderful tour o f the South Pacific last summer and won a place in the England U 18 A XV that played Wales. He is planning a gap year teaching in Australia before going to Edinburgh to read Virology.Charlie toured the South Pacific with the Sherborne 1 st XV.

Kirby-Harris Alexander is studying A Levels at Milton Abbey and hopes to read Business Economics and Management at either Newcastle or LSE. His sporting career has blossomed and he has played rugby, football, hockey and tennis for the school 1st teams.

96 Bell Rory has left Clifton after achieving good GCSEsand will be studying for his A Levels at Bryanston.

96 Benham Charlie is studying Art, Ancient History andBusiness Studies as his A Levels at Sherborne. He has played rugby, cricket and hockey for his House and is very interested in art and photography.

96 Bridger David is playing for Sherborne 1 st XV, along withseveral ex Mount House boys, and enjoying A Levels in English, Medieval History and Religious Studies.

96 Halliday Robert is greatly enjoying life at Sherborne in the Lower Sixth where he is studying A Levels in DT, Economics and Geography with a view to read Agricultural Management at university. Extra­curricular activities include cross country running for the school senior squad and running the RM section of the CCF with the rank o f Colour Sergeant.

94

95 Clayton

95 Davies

95 Harris

95

96 Hore Geoff bagged a wonderful set o f GCSEs at Etonwith 5 A*s and 5 As.

96 Jarrett-KerrJonathan successfully negotiated GCSE at King’s, Bruton, achieving good grades in his chosen A Levels.

96 Kitson Philip achieved very pleasing GCSE results atMarlborough and has now undertaken A Levels in History, Politics and English. He is hoping to make the Marlborough 1 st XV this year.

96 Lee Oswald gained excellent GCSEs and is studyingMaths, Physics and Chemistry for A Levels. He has won prizes for his Maths & Physics, the latter the Paddy Whelan Prize from Sherborne School. Paddy Whelan was at Mount House in the 1940s.

96 Mason Sam achieved excellent results in his GCSEs andhas been a great contributor to school life at Sherborne, especially in sport, CCF and music. He is studying A levels in History, Ancient History, Greek and Latin. He was selected to play in the National Fives Championship in London last year.

96 Robertson Alexander has achieved very pleasing GCSEresults at Millfield with English and Drama at A grade.

96 Sage Roland achieved excellent GCSEs at Sherborneand now embarks on a scientific A Level course with confidence and enthusiasm.He remains a keen rugby player (3rd XV) and has also enjoyed CCF and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme (Silver medal). He was recently awarded a travel grant to visit Kenya, where he worked in the ‘Happy Home’ orphanage.

96 Trahair Harry achieved very pleasing GCSE results atMarlborough and is now studying Geography, Design Technology and Business Studies. He has enjoyed playing rugby, tennis, soccer and basketball and has just completed a three week trip to Mongolia.

96 Williams Henry achieved straight A* grades in his GCSEexams at Ampleforth.

97 Armstrong Morwenna has been in France again, this timeskiing for Downe House in the British Girls’ Schools Championships.

97 Bridger Andrew has played rugby for Sherborne andDorset and Wilts and is looking forward to a trial for the SW England. He also found time to achieve a Duke o f Edinburgh Bronze Award.

97 Church Gary is enjoying life at KCT and has played rugby for their U 16 B team.

97 Dale Frank is working hard for GCSEs at Clifton, buthas found time to visit South Africa and the USA to do some snowboarding.

97 Dudgeon Benjie has won a a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award at Sherborne.

97 Franklin Peter has achieved a Duke o f Edinburgh Bronze Award after yet another rugby injury seriously curtailed his exploits on the Sherborne playing fields.

97 Gillmore Edward has been playing U 16 A team rugby at KCT and also represented the school in the throwing events in Athletics.

97 Gough Michael reached the final o f the Lord's TavernersU15 Cup with The Royal Hospital School, Holbrook.

97 Gough Robert was mentioned in the ‘Holbrook Times’ forhis batting in a strong Royal Hospital School U14 XI.

81

Fanfare

1999-2000

Associates ’ News

jjjjjjl 97 Halliday

■

X■

97 Kongialis

97

97

Langton

Neenan

97 Pickles

97 Wild

97

97

Wild

Woosnam-

98 Alford

98 Anderson

Bridger

98 Bush

98 Caley

98 Church

98 Court

Hooper

98 Howard

Robert achieved excellent GCSE results at Sherborne and is studying Geography, DT and Economics at A Level. He has represented the school at Cross Country and is active in the CCF and the School Choir.David has retained his love o f soccer at KCT, playing in the 2nd XI and looking forward to a visit to Milan in February 200.Chris has won a Duke o f Edinburgh Bronze Award in the scheme operated at Sherborne.James is playing A team rugby at prop or lock for KCT and is touring with the King's 1st XV this summer. He is also enjoying hockey and athletics. George is leaving KCT this summer, but has played ‘A’ team rugby and cricket and 3rd XI soccer and was awarded his SCA colours in November 1999.Mark has thrived at KCT where he is already the No. 1 player in the U16 tennis team. He also plays squash, rugby and hockey for the school.Peter has represented KCT in their U16 ‘A’ teams for rugby, hockey and cricket.

■Mills Alex has enjoyed playing U16 B team rugby, 2nd XI soccer and competing in field events at KCT.James has settled happily at Taunton School and has represented school teams in rugby, hockey and cricket. He continues to play the piano.Christopher enjoyed his first year at Kelly College. He has played cricket (av: 41.23), rugby, football, basketball and rugby sevens, achieving colours in rugby and cricket. He has still found time to sing in the choir and played the trumpet solo on Remembrance Day. He led a Kelly College 35 mile team in this year’s Ten Tors.Antonia is enjoying life at Devonport where music in the form of piano and drums occupies her time along with poetry and prose reading. She certainly stands out from the crowd with blue highlights in her hair!Archie has settled to life at K ing’s, Bruton and has enjoyed success at rugby, hockey and cricket. His musical talents have been much appreciated and he is working hard to improve his golf.Stephen has started well at St Peter’s, York and has enjoyed playing rugby and cricket for the school. His family has left America and is now settled in England, although father is off to Sierra Leone for a six month posting.James has pursued his great interest in History at Sherborne where he topped the end o f year exam. He has also enjoyed fencing and studying Spanish. Tom has settled well into Emanuel School and his report suggests he is achieving a high academic standard.Edward’s blossoming rugby career at Taunton School, was put on temporary hold with a fractured shoulder, but earlier he had played hockey and cricket for school teams. He has become a serious guitarist.Matthew has made excellent academic progress at Plymouth College and is studying hard for 10 GCSEs. He plays rugby at hooker for the College U16s.

98 Trahair

98 Tucker

98 Noble Oliver has played rugby in the 'A' team at TauntonSchool where his down to earth approach to life is much appreciated.Rory has thrown him self wholeheartedly into life at Marlborough where he has continued his drumming and begun to learn Chinese.Tristram has enjoyed him self to the full at King's, Bruton. Sport has dominated his life with success on the rugby, hockey and cricket pitch. In his spare time he has played tennis, archery, basketball and chess!

99 Allerfeldt Chloe has slowly,but surely settled into life atBryanston. The violin, hockey and drama have occupied her free time.

99 Bailey Paloma has been an important member o f theBryanston U14 netball team that reached the County finals. She has also played U14 hockey and enjoyed singing and the Jazz Dance group.

99 Bialick Forbes has made a ‘cracking start’ at Canford,playing for a very successful U14 ‘B ’ XV, excelling at cross country and beginning to row. His housemaster believes that Forbes can look

, forward to a ‘distinguished Canford career’!99 Bridger Zoe has continued with her athletics at Devonport

where she is still competing in the high jump.99 Bumell-Nugent Tom has settled happily at Marlborough

where he has worked hard in class and enjoyed rugby, hockey and cricket on the games field. He has given up the Choir - too girl orientated!

99 Dawson David has enjoyed a wonderful start to his time atKCT, the highlight being the U14 Cricket Tour to South Africa.

99 Gude Tom has made a ‘highly positive and diligent’ startto life at Kelly College where he has pursued interests in soccer and squash.

99 Jackson Jono has enjoyed an outstanding academic start atKelly College and played rugby for the Junior Colts.

99 Kaminski James has been an influential member o f KellyCollege’s Junior Colts XV and has continued his singing with the School Choir.Robert has made an ‘easy and painless’ transition to Bryanston. He has played for the U14s, played the trumpet and spent much time in the IT Centre. Tom is nearing the end o f his first year at KSB. He has enjoyed the rugby, scoring two tries for the U 14’s ‘A’, while hockey and cricket have been played at a slightly lower level.

99 Palmer Josh has settled well at Marlborough College.99 Tobey Angus has settled into the routines of Bryanston

and, in addition to good academic results, has been involved in clarinet playing, model railways, roller blading and snakeboarding.

99 Newman

99 O ’Brien

The Association always welcomes contributions, however brief, and photographs. Please drop a line to Tony Wortham, at Herongate, M ount House School, Tavistock, PL19 9JL, or to Charles Price, or John Symons, at the School, or e-mail to mounthouse@aol.com or SymonsTavi@aol.com .

82

Fanfare 1999-2000

Associates ’ News

Matthew Jaquiery’ left Mount House in July 1998. He is now at Winchester College. This is the poet he has become.

March 11, 2000March the eleventh, year 2000.Do I know what I did, do I care?What if I thought, what I hoped, what I did I don’t know.Do I care, do I, do you?I can’t remember.It w asn’t an occasion for me.If it was, I can’t think why.W ho I was, and what I thought,Was it stars and planets running Random rotating races round each other.Or Was it me? What controlled my actions, my

thoughts?1 rather fancy the thought o f little me.And all those planets interlinked.And me doing my own thing and not giving a

damn.W here they were.What would I change, if it was then again? W hat would I change?Nothing.There are so many little things that I could have

changed,But why change what you can 't remember?

No reason.It might be fun, perhaps,I might make a little money on the stock exchange, Spend it and die O f food poisoning.From food that I w ouldn't eat,Or maybe I could terrorise a small villageAnd wake upToday,In jail.But enough o f fantasy,W hat o f today?Will today pass o ff into the distance,A day which is just so much time.How many days and dates are just so much time Just quietly propping my age up?Just quietly passing into a realm where even memories, In all their power, cannot penetrate.Maybe.Maybe I 'll sit and think, maybe not,But as I said before do I care?

Matthew Jaquiery

PessimistDisinfectant. Undiluted,Novel love, unrequited.So many uns, so negative,The world's got no sense o f Fun is getting old.Smiles are fading too,Enjoying yourself is out o f fashion,The w orld’s more boring every Day is dull. Night is dull.Vocabulary’s limited too,All the sounds are monotone,And boredom rules Over ground, Under ground,Wombling free,The Wombles o f Wimbledon,Boring areWe all think the same thoughts,Our dreams are black and white,We wake up screaming monotone,In the middle o f the Night is dull, Day is dull Vocabulary’s limited too,All the sounds are montone,And boredom rules overAll we want is a glich o f imperfectionA whodunnit with a twist or a bend,A novel head ’nd shoulders above others Or a poem without an

Matthew Jaquiery

The Back Page Boys" 0

<D O T3

CD

83

0)

My thanks go to the vast array o f pupils, staff, parents, MHA members, and other friends, who have shared in the production o f Fanfare 2000. Special thanks go to Myra Sussex and Pat Tear for all their typing, whilst photographs have been supplied by the outstanding team of Geoffrey Allen, Malcolm Bassett, Peter Hamilton-Leggett, JennieKibblewhite, Bids Morgan, Lottie Morse, Charles Price, Hugh Walkington, Geoff Whaley, and others. T hank you all.

Guy Canning

Thanks to all o f you!

84

IN D U L G E Y O U R S E L F in the am bience o f this special place, w here luxury aw aits you at every turn . O u r guests tell us tha t they “have never felt so p am p ered .”

E njoy peace, tranquillity , and com plete privacy in ou r beau tifu l en -su ite bed-sitting room s, each with log fire and private te rrace garden.

E ach su ite is very d iffe ren t. From the blue and cream elegance o f the C raftsm an’s Room , to the G ard en R oom with its vaulted ceiling and an tique bed , to the A rt D eco R oom w ith its w arm th and style. E ach offers space, com fort and luxury.

We a re n o t licensed, but w e provide a fridge in each su ite fo r guests w ho wish to bring the ir own w ine and drinks.

O u r extensive b reak fast m enu offers guests trad itional o r vegetarian choices, and we ca ter fo r special diets.

F or evening m eals we have excellent local res tau ran ts w ithin easy driving d istance, w here w e can reserve tab les fo r o u r guests. T he re are also lovely local inns nearby.

Special w in te r b reaks a re available.

T h e re is a hea ted swim m ing pool in the sum m er.

Our Visitors' Book says it all:

“We are totally under the spell o f this enchanting place, which cherishes its guests so much, and makes them feel so special. ”

“A perfect escape from the real world. The atmosphere, service, and food were all exquisite. It is an unusual, beautiful, place. ”

Awarded top quality by ETB and AA, and recommended by the good Hotel guide and Which ?

Sorry: No smoking; no pets; and regretfully, no children.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ G O LD A W A R D

Go/?i/)(/ie ̂ to « f/oK/tf f/Coii'Se(Off/ a 'Sfoecia/ fareaf ci( r/or Goftacje/

E X C E L L E N C E » W » I D S

ESE2ESEES1 O S B 1 B

Tor Cottage has a warm andrelaxed atmosphere and nestlesin its own private valley. Withlovely gardens, a streamsidesetting, 18 acres of wildlifehillsides, it is adjacent toDartmoor and the Tamar Valley.It is central for coastlines, andjust a few minutes’ drive awayfrom Mount House School.

BROCHURE AVAILABLE Tor Cottage, Chillaton, Devon, p l i 6 o j e . Telephone 01822 860248 Fax 01822 860126

E-mail: info@toreottage.eo.uk Internet: http://ww.toreottage.eo.uk