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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION P3

NEWS FROM THE COLLEGE P6
RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION COUNCIL P17
RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION EVENTS P20
RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION SPORTS EVENTS P31

OLD RATCLIFFIAN NEWS P39
MARRIAGES P47
BIRTHS P49

OBITUARIES P50
RATCLIFFE’S PAST P62
DIARY DATES FOR 2017 BC
FROM YOUR PRESIDENT

for the better under the stewardship of Gareth Lloyd, who sadly
leaves us for pastures new at the end of the academic year. We
all wish him well for the future and thank him for his tireless work
throughout his tenure. In particular, Gareth understands the
importance of a strong past pupil network, and his support of
the Association’s efforts has been greatly appreciated.

This year, the Association sees another long-standing member,
Michael Coker (52), retiring after forty years from his role as
Clerk of the Trustees for both the Cunningham Trust Fund and
the Ratcliffian Association. Michael’s commitment to both roles
over the years has been truly humbling and greatly appreciated.
I would like to wish him a very long and happy retirement on
behalf of the Association.
Throughout my years at Ratcliffe, I took part in all sports
(to varying degrees of success!), and whilst my playing days
are certainly numbered, I would dearly like to re-establish Old
Boys’ rugby as a calendar event, year on year, going forward. To
that end, the first Patch Gamble Rugby Festival was held at the
College on September 25th, with proceeds going to the Matt
Hampson Foundation. Over 250 people attended the event,
and a total of £1,503.46 was raised for the Foundation. Jackie
Bennett, the Association’s former Executive Secretary, must
President, Sam Bird (98)
be given full credit for the event’s success, together with our
sponsors. A review of this event can be found on page 35. Next
Dear Old Ratcliffians, year’s event will see a slight change in format to touch rugby,
in order to make the day more inclusive to all ages and abilities.
Having greatly enjoyed my first year of involvement with the Incidentally, this will also allow me to keep playing!
Association as Vice President, I am proud to take over the reins of
President of the Ratcliffian Association from Mike Meredith (89). As we look forward to 2017, we welcome Sebako Siame (91) to
the role of Vice President; she will assume the presidency in
the summer. In addition, the Association’s Executive Manager,
Fond memories and lasting friendships are what many Old Alex Slack (née Gamble) (03), has put together an exciting
Ratcliffians recall when asked about their time at the College, calendar of events, where I look forward to seeing you during
and my experience is no different. As I embark upon my year as the year.
President, my son, Harry, also starts his life at Ratcliffe in Year 5.
I am struck by the warmth of the staff and how well the children I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a
are cared for. prosperous New Year.

In many ways, the School remains the same, familiar place, with Sam Bird (98)
the same established traditions, but it has undeniably changed President of the Ratcliffian Association

Register online at www.ratcliffianassociation.co.uk