News of former pupils
Latest
Old Pals meet again after almost 40 years - 05 Mar 2010
The last time Ian Moorhouse and Paul Haslam got together was at Paul Haslam\'s wedding reception in Whalley Abbey in August 1972. Paul\'s actual wedding took place in Ireland but he held another reception for his Lancashire based friends. read more..
News from New Zealand - 22 Feb 2010
Old Blackburnian Julian Vyas (1973-1981) is now working as a Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at the Starship Children\'s Hospital Auckland. read more..
Record result! - 10 Feb 2010
In the new Lent issue of Q-News we published a plea for help to trace a record produced by the QEGS school choir. The ink was barely dry from the printers when the Foundation Office received three emails from QEGS alumni who were able to help with the quest. read more..
Physics lessons come in handy for pilot Chris - 04 Jan 2010
Chris Knowles (1993-1995) recently attended the Empire Test Pilots\' School at Boscombe Down and sent the school a note to say thank you to Mr Anslow andr Mr Walsh for the firm grounding in Physics, which he is still using 15 years later!
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Congratulations, Julian - 31 Dec 2009
Former QEGS Horncliffe (Junior School) pupil Julian Wilde has been awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours list for voluntary services to young people. read more..
Sophie looks inside the mind of an actor - 22 Dec 2009
A former pupil had her work featured in the Guardian recently when Stuart Jeffries, a feature writer for the newspaper, watched Prof. Sophie Scott at work in London University\'s psychology department. read more..
Old Blackburnian appointed as CEO for Marsden Rawsthorn - 22 Dec 2009
Stephen Hodgson (QEGS 1971-1978) has been appointed as CEO of Marsden Rawsthorn. Stephen has taken over form Charles Mather who held the position for five years. Stephen has been Head of Commercial Property at the firm for ten years since joining Marsden Rawsthorn in 1999. read more..
Awards for Rajarshi - 22 Dec 2009
Dr Rajarashi Mukherjee (QEGS 1991-1998) has just been awarded the Lord Smith Medal & Prize for the best research presentation from a specialist surgical trainee which he delivered to the Pancreatic Society of Great Britain & Ireland at their annual meeting in Leeds.
What makes the award even more special is that Rajarshi is the first person in the society\'s history to win this prestigous medal twice. He had previously won it in the first year of his PhD back in 2007.
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Were you in the QEGS choir in the 1960s? - 22 Dec 2009
Dr Peter Downham (OB 1957-67 has contacted Q-news to ask whether anybody has any knowledge of a record produced by the school choir in the 1960s.
Peter says he was in that choir c.1963-64 and remembers the rehearsals of several classical pieces and then the recording of a performance in the main hall. He recalls seeing the record that was subsequently produced with the album sleeve naming all the members of the choir. Peter says that previous enquiries have proved fruitless, so he is appealing for anyone who knows of its existence and, ideally, who has a copy to contact the Development Office at school.
If you can help, please email Joanna Lavelle, jlavelle@qegs.blackburn.sch.uk or telephone 01254 686333 and we will let Peter know read more..
Andrew Walsh joins Speechly Bircham as partner - 17 Dec 2009
Former Head Boy Andrew G Walsh (QEGS 1962-1971) has moved to Speechly Bircham from Shadbolt LLp whre he was a partner.
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Peter Downham becomes President - 17 Dec 2009
In July 2009 Dr Peter Downham was made President of Southport Rotary Club. Peter was at QEGS from 1957-1967. Peter has been a Rotarian at Southport for over twenty five years. With a membership of seventy four members Southport is the largest club in the district. read more..
Jonathan Bretherton (73-79) shows V1th form Geographers how a town is made - 11 Dec 2009
In December we were delighted to welcome back to school former pupil Jonathan Bretherton (OB 1973-79), who is now the Chief Executive of ESG Herefordshire Ltd and working on a proposed £650m retail development within the city of Hereford.
Jonathan used the outline plans for the Hereford development in a special lesson with groups of Sixth Form Geography students, challenging them to think about some of the objections that might be raised by businesses and residents and asking them which of the alternative sites for the development they would favour – and why.
Introducing the lesson with Mr Young and Mr Northin, Jonathan said that in the Sixth Form Geography was the A level subject that he focused on least, yet it is the one on which he has founded his career as a Chartered Surveyor. He added that he recognises now what excellent teaching he had at QEGS and that “rarely a day goes by when I am not using in my work some element of the Geography I learned at this school.”
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David\'s book has lots of links - 02 Dec 2009
Former pupil David Birtill (OB 1953-58) called in to school recently and kindly donated a copy of his new book to Mrs Valerie Dewhurst, the School Librarian.
David, who for the past 25 years has been the North Region Press Officer for the Professional Golfers’ Association, the PGA, has written a splendid book to mark the centenary of the Lancashire Union of Golf Clubs. The book, Lancashire Links, has a wealth of information and stories about the county’s clubs and the people who have helped golf grow, including another former QEGS pupil, Nick Dougherty, now competing on the European Tour.
David has now retired from the Manchester Evening News after a long career in the regional and national press, but he continues to write extensively about the sport and this book has clearly been a labour of love for him. It is also an excellent addition to the Library’s collection of books by Old Blackburnians – thanks, David!
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David Brown signs for Glamorgan - 06 Nov 2009
Cricketer David Brown (OB 1994-2001) has signed a two-year deal to play for Glamorgan County Cricket Club, following his recent departure from Gloucestershire. read more..
New role for Graeme in Addis Ababa - 04 Nov 2009
Graeme Preston (QEGS 1966-1973) is to take up a new role as special advisor on Transport, Energy and Water Resources to the Delegation of the European Union to the African Union, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 2010. read more..
Geoffrey Sullivan finally gets his medal! - 04 Nov 2009
Dr Geoffrey Sullivan (QEGS 1937-1944) was proud to win the 100 yards dash in his last year at school but due to war time restrictions he didn\'t receive his medal at the time. At the recent Quincentenary Reunion celebrations the current Headmaster, Simon Corns heard about the missing medal and arranged for a new medal to be created. read more..
Fundraising triumph for Chris Skelton (QEGS 1972-1979) - 02 Oct 2009
Forty-eight year old Chris Skelton returned to the London Marathon after a gap of more than twenty years. He was well on target to beating his youthful timing until weather conditions affected him. However, he still completed the event in a respectable 4 hours 20 and raised a magnificent £24,000 for charity. read more..
Double success for Barton Brothers - 15 Sep 2009
William Barton (1995-1999) has just graduated with 2.1 in Classics from University College London and is now on his way to the University of Calgary to study for an MA in History and Philology. His brother Edward (1997-2001) is on his way to Cornell University New York State to study economics after a year in the American Institute in London. read more..
A time of changes for Simeon - 08 Sep 2009
Congratulations to Simeon Birchall (1991-1998) who in the last twelve months has moved house, been promoted to Head of Biology at Ridgewood School Doncaster and become a proud father of Matilda! read more..
Chris promotes Cambridge - 07 Sep 2009
It\'s always good to see former pupils making their mark at University. So, when Careers Master Steve Northin received the new prospectus for Churchill College, Cambridge, he was delighted to see that recent Head of School Chris Darwen, now reading Medicine there, had been chosen to feature in a tutor group for a full-page picture in that publication. read more..
Seeking 1976 year leavers - 04 Sep 2009
John Neil came to QEGS for just three years between the ages of 8 and 11 but had to leave Horncliffe when his parents emigrated to Canada in 1969. After 30 years he is interested to get in touch with anyone from his years at school. Those who stayed on to the Sixth Form would have left in 1976. read more..
Archivist appeals for House ties - 04 Sep 2009
The Honorary School Archivist, former pupil and teacher John Read, is appealing to anyone who is able to add to his collection of the first issue House ties, which were introduced in the late 1970s. John writes as follows: read more..
1970s Reunion - 27 Aug 2009
Thhe 1970s decade is often overlooked between the Swinging Sixties and Punk Rock of the 1980s but it was period full of events from the break up of the Beatles to the death of Elvis Presley. Margaret Thatcher became the first woman Prime Minister and girls were admitted to QEGS.
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Reverend David McGladdery - 21 Aug 2009
Formerly in the QEGS Common Room,(1985-1988) is to be inducted and instituted as the Vicar of the Monmouth Group of Parishes on August 29 followed by a a Pimms party at Monmouth School
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Professor Peter Moizer named as Dean of Leeds University Business School - 20 Aug 2009
Professor Peter Moizer (QEGS 1963-1970) has been appointed as the Dean of Leeds University Business School where he has been the Professor of Finance and Accounting for 19 years. read more..
Another professor from the 80's! Professor Simon Hackett - 06 Aug 2009
Professor Simon Hackett is Chair in Applied Sciencess and Head of a large interedisciplinary school at Durham and as such he is responsible for a range of subject areas at Durham university including sport, sociology, criminology and social work. read more..
New post for Roger - 01 Jul 2009
Former PE teacher and master in charge of 1st XI football at QEGS Roger Davies has today taken up a new post at the Football Association. read more..
Nick Dougherty wins BMW Open - 28 Jun 2009
Nick Dougherty today won the BMW International Golf Open in Munich, by one stroke from the Argentinian Rafa Echenique. Nick's final score of 266 was 18 under par for the four rounds and earned him prize money of 333,330 euro (over £280,000). read more..
Michael captains Surrey - 01 Jun 2009
Michael Brown has taken over the captaincy of Surrey's four-day side in place of Mark Butcher, who is injured. Michael, 29, joined Surrey CCC in October 2008. Since leaving QEGS in 1998, Michael has also played professional cricket for Middlesex and Hampshire. read more..
Congratulations to Theodore Gill (OB 1995-2002) - 21 May 2009
Congratulations to Theodore Gill (OB 1995-2002) who recently took up his commission - The 2nd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment, The Green Howards.
Theodore attended the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester where he was Captain of the 2nd XV before playing for the 1st XV as a blind side flanker. He left Cirencester to work for an estate agency in London before deciding he wanted to apply for a commission in the Army. At Sandhurst he played for the 1st XV as a prop and represented the Academy at Clay Pigeon Shooting. Theodore passed out from Sandhurst in August 2008 and is pictured with his parents - Charles and Marion after the ceremony at Sandhurst.
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Howard Singleton funds new travel scholarship - 19 May 2009
The scholarship is the brainchild of Old Blackburnian Howard Singleton (1960-1969) who visited the school for the first time in 40 years at the Swinging Sixties Reunion in 2008. Howard travelled more than 3,500 miles from his home in Lombok, Indonesia to attend the reunion. The memories the reunion generated inspired him to offer the school £2,000 per annum to give in the form of a travel award.
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Derick receives Paul Harris Award - 15 May 2009
The former School Marshal Derick Lund yesterday received the Paul Harris Award from Rotary International, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the ideals of the Rotary movement. read more..
Rik's father's amazing recovery - 30 Apr 2009
Former pupil Rik Marsland (OB 1976-81) contacted us to say that his father, Harry, has an amazing story to tell. As Harry’s story may be of more general interest, we asked him to tell it in his own words: read more..
Anand Pallegar receives award as top CEO - 31 Mar 2009
Anand Pallegar (QEGS 1986-1996) has been given an award as emerging CEO of the Year in a ceremony in Tampa Bay Florida. Anand's award is part of the Tampa Bay 100 designed to recognise the leaders from community, government, education, economic development and non-profit organisations which influence the direction and future of Tampa Bay's Business landscape. read more..
Forbes has been named Corporate Law Firm of the Year at the Insider Dealmakers Awards 2009 - 22 Mar 2009
Forbes has been named Corporate Law Firm of the Year at the Insider Dealmakers Awards 2009 for the second year running. The award recognises outstanding performance by a law firm within Lancashire.
The award ceremony, held at Ewood Park in Blackburn is billed as one of the best and most prestigious events in the region. Over 200 professionals and business people attended the event to celebrate the cream of Lancashire corporate finance activity. All the awards were voted for by the dealmaking community itself.
The Corporate Law Firm of the Year 2009 award was one of the evening's most fiercely contested categories, with the firm beating some of the biggest names in the business. On the night Forbes were shortlisted with DWF, Marsden Rawsthorn, Napthens Solicitors, Taylors and Farleys.
There are many Old Blackurnians associated with Forbes corporate Law Firm including the Chairman of Governors, John Barker. read more..
Lt Cdr Chris Baldwin career update (QEGS 1971-1980) - 11 Mar 2009
"I am still in the Royal Navy. Having enjoyed a very interesting 15 months as Commanding Officer of the Southern Diving Group I am now the Career Manager for all Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving officers up to the rank of Lt Cdr. I also look after another 135 Royal Navy Officers. Its a fascinating job and the days just whizz by."
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Michael Blackledge steps down as President - 26 Feb 2009
After many years as President of Crowborough and District Lions Michael Blackledge (QEGS 1954-1959) has relinquished the role. During his association with the Lions Michael has been heavily involved in raising money for local charities. read more..
Chris moves back to England - 02 Feb 2009
Professional footballer Chris Porter, a member of the school's 2001 ISFA Cup winning team, has signed a two and a half year contract with English Championship side, Derby County. read more..
Books for schools - 21 Jan 2009
From January 11th a new promotion from The Times/Sunday Times newspapers commences - ‘Books for Schools’. The school library has registered and will be collecting tokens daily. Tokens will appear every day in The Times and The Sunday Times. We can exchange these tokens for free books of our choice from a catalogue of more than 170 great titles. There will be 12 tokens printed every week, and with your help we could add lots more new books to our library. If you see any of these tokens would you kindly post them to the school library or drop them off in reception?
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1959 footballers reunited at Annual Dinner - 05 Jan 2009
The reunion of 1958 entrants organised by Norman Barton at the Annual Dinner in December was a great success reuniting Old Blackburnians from far and wide, including Gerald Nixon from Berlin. Keith Pemberton brought a copy of the 1959-1960 football team and as another member of the team, Denis Martin remarked, "It is amazing that six of the twelve boys on the photographs were there on Saturday": Terry Barnes, Keith Pemberton, Russ Gillam, Norman Barton, Ray Jones and Denis Martin. read more..
1958 reunion at the Annual Dinner - 05 Jan 2009
Following the sucessful Swinging Sixties Reunion Norman Barton and a few others decided to make up a table of those who joined QEGS in 1958. The idea worked well and old friends were reunited at Annual Dinner in December read more..
Dr Sophie Scott QEGS First Female professor - 05 Jan 2009
Sophie promoted to a chair in Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London in 2006 and therefore is the first QEGS female professor (As far as we know!) read more..
Former school friends Sophie Scott and Julia Newton among the first female professors - 05 Jan 2009
In the recent issue of Q-News we reported about Dr Julia Newton's appointment as Professor of Ageing at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. The article reminded Dr Sophie Scott that as she had gone on maternity leave following her appointment as Chair of Cognitive Research at UCL in 2006 she forgot to "spread the news". Both Old Blackburnians are pictured in V1 Gamma in 1985. Sophie is on the front row third from the right and Julia is on the second row fourth from the right and the form master in the middle is Mr Rhodes to whom as Sophie commented " we owe a great deal he was a fantastic and inspirational teacher" read more..
Fergus receives trophy from Prince Charles - 19 Dec 2008
Former pupil Fergus Devlin-Connolly (OB 1992-99) has been presented by Prince Charles with his trophy for winning the Georgian Group Measured Drawing Prize, an international competition to reward excellence in measured architectural drawing and to encourage close study and understanding of Georgian buildings. read more..
Gareth tackles Atlantic challenge for Brain Tumour research - 01 Dec 2008
On New Year's Eve when most people are setting out to party Gareth will setting out on a marathon voyage across the Atlantic to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. read more..
Philip Johnston (Headmaster 1978-1994) - 25 Nov 2008
Philip has recently been invited by AQA to continue as an Independent member of its Stage 2 Appeals (about examination results) and to attend such Appeals in Guildford and Manchester. Philip also acts as a Chairman for the North Yorkshire County Council Appeal Panel which hears parental appeals concerning disputed cases.
He has just returned from leading a party of historians on an Historical Association study-tour which sailed 600miles+ up the Irrawaddy in Northern Burma, penetrating to within 30 miles of the Chinese border, sailing through the famous 3 Defiles. Next October he leads a party to explore Singapore and Java, and would be glad to hear from any interested Old Blackburnian who might be interested in going on such a tour; you don't have to be an historian!
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Frank wins first Under-21 cap - 18 Nov 2008
Old Blackburnian Frank Fielding has received his first cap for the England Under-21 football team, by playing the last hour of this evening's friendly international against the Czech Republic at Bramall Lane in Sheffield. read more..
A double success for the Howard brothers - 18 Nov 2008
Twin brothers John and James Howard graduated from Manchester University with degrees in Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Medicine. Both are now working as Junior Doctors with John at the Royal Blackburn Hospital and James at Fairfield Trust in Bury read more..
First commission for William - 09 Nov 2008
Former pupil William Holden (OB 1994 - 2004) has now taken up his first commission with the 2nd Duke of Lancaster's Regiment in Cyprus. read more..
Wayne opens new Enterprise Centre - 01 Nov 2008
Former pupil Wayne Hemingway (OB 1972-79) returned to Blackburn last week to help cut the ribbon at the official opening of the new Blackburn Rovers Enterprise Centre at Ewood Park. read more..
A virtual world as Noel opens hi-tech restaurant - 30 Oct 2008
Old Blackburnian Noel Hunwick (1993-2000) has recently opened a restaurant with a difference in London’s Soho district together with his business partner, Danny Potter. read more..
Dr Barry Harker swops four-legged patients for the two-legged variety! - 28 Oct 2008
"After 30 years in practice as a veterinary surgeon I decided to see if I still retained enough neurons to go back to university again. I am now practising as an osteopath in Marlow, South Bucks. The patients don''t bite or kick quite so much - generally !"
David Barry Harker 1956-1963
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Canadian Reunion for Albert - 17 Oct 2008
in August 2008, Albert Eastham (1946-1951) and on the staff (1960-1965) visited Roy Ashcroft (1945-1952) and Roger Maltby (1948-1953) read more..
Albert Eastham and Roger Maltby in Jasper - 17 Oct 2008
Krishnan to lead Marketing Society Annual Conference - 16 Oct 2008
Krishnan Guru- Murthy (QEGS 1978-1988) of Channel 4 News will be setting the agenda at othe Marketing Society Annual Conference, grilling the speakers to give the insights Marketers need to do now to sidestep the challenges and sieze the opportunities of today's tough climate.The conference is called Winning in the Downturn and takes place at the Royal Opera House on Tuesday November 25
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Ross Worswick - 08 Oct 2008
Ross (QEGS 1996-2007) is competing in the 2009 Formula Renault UK Championship, which is a support race for the British touring car championship, and attracts the biggest crowds in UK racing.
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Top of class for Shirley Hooker (nee Green) - 02 Oct 2008
Shirley Hooker (Nee Green) QEGS 86-88 has recently graduated from York University (Canada) top of class, cum laude on the dean's honour roll. BAS Information Technology after 6 years of study, interrupted briefly by the birth of her two daughters. read more..
Jeremy Gorick scoops Lancashire Director of the Year Award - 23 Sep 2008
Old Blackburnian and school governor Jeremy Gorick is Managing Director of the Preston-based Iotech group. He received the award at an Institute of Directors event earlier this month. read more..
Rob Thomas memorial bench installed at school - 13 Sep 2008
Friends of former QEGS pupil Robert Thomas, who died tragically last year, have generously contributed to a new memorial bench, which has now been installed in the school grounds. read more..
Memorial Dinner for Rob - 01 Sep 2008
The Rob Thomas Memorial Dinner will take place in the Red Rose Suite at Ewood Park on Saturday 8th November 2008, 7.30pm for 8pm read more..
Steve Alcock Collects Award - 22 Aug 2008
Steve Alcock (1967-1976) has been given an award for the best "small hotel" for the Shireburn Arms Hotel" in Hurst Green Near Clitheroe. read more..
Josh receives first cap - 20 Aug 2008
Congratulations to Josh O'Keefe (OB 1998-2005), who last night played for the Republic of Ireland Under-21 team in a friendly match against Austria in Vienna. read more..
Gavin Makinson in "Les Mis" - 16 Jul 2008
Gavin James Makinson (QEGS 1985-1995) is currently appearing in Les Miserables at Queens Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London where he is playing the part of The Bishop of Digne / Combeferre in the current run.
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David Brunton crosses the pond for Lloyds - 14 Jul 2008
David Brunton (QEGS 1971-1981) has moved to Atlanta Georgia with his current employer Lloyds TSB. His two sons are already in US colleges. David and his wife Ruth are staying for three years initially to see how it works out. read more..
Duncan Peake New CEO of Holker Hall - 03 Jul 2008
Duncan Peake (QEGS 1968-1977) has moved to Holker Hall in Cumbria as Chief Executive Officer read more..
Geoff Peake honoured for voluntary service to Cancer Research - 25 Jun 2008
Geoff (QEGS 1943-1949) has been named a Cancer Research UK Honorary Fellow in celebration of his loyalty and dedication, at a ceremony in London. read more..
Ex Head Girl Julia becomes Professor - 23 Jun 2008
Julia Newton who was Head Girl at QEGS in 1984-1985 has been promoted to the personal chair of Professor of Ageing and Medicine at Newcastle University read more..
Graham Dickinson (1965-1972) to head new London office for DWF - 23 Jun 2008
"Graham Dickinson, one of the UK's leading insurance and catastrophic injury lawers, is moving his team to DWF to oversee the launch of a new London Office" read more..
Were you in 4B 1942/43? - 03 Jun 2008
Old Blackburnian John Martin is trying to trace class mates from 4B in the early 1940s. Said John, "It would lovely to see who is still around and what they are doing now" read more..
"God without God" a new book by Michael Hampson (78-84) - 02 Jun 2008
"In a compelling book, challenging Christians and atheists alike, Michael Hampson presents a deeply authentic spirituality which reaches into the profound mystery at the centre of Christian faith" writes the Right Reverend Laurie Green, the Bishop of Bradwell of Michael's new book God without God read more..
Chris Clarke wins 2008 World Championship - 28 May 2008
Chris Clarke (1979-1989) has won the World Croquet Championship for 2008 just eleven days after marrying fellow croquet player Dr Jenny Williams. read more..
Jonathan Slinger stars as Richard III - 15 May 2008
"This terrific actor finds more cynicism, sardonic mockery and deprived fun in the role than any other Crookbank I can recall.." so writes Bennedict Nightingale in the Times for the full review seethe Times online Jonathan is shown here in an earlier role of Dromio in a Comedy of Errors read more..
Stephen Dodds (QEGS 1964-1971) appointed Judge - 08 May 2008
HM The Queen has appointed Robert Stephen Dodds to be a Circuit Judge on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, the Right Honourable Jack Straw MP. The Lord Chief Justice, Lord Phillips of Worth Matravers, has assigned him to the Northern Circuit, based at Lancaster County Court with effect from Monday 19 November 2007. read more..
Youngest criminal judge takes up role - 15 Jan 2008
Old Blackburnian Anthony Bate(1970-1979) has recently been appointed as Britain's youngest criminal judge read more..
Richard Bennett takes the chair - 06 Dec 2007
Barrister Richard Bennett succeeds Glenn Blake as OBA chairman read more..
Student Radio Award nomination for Greg - 17 Nov 2007
Well done to former pupil Greg Hughes (OB 1998-2005), who is already making an impact in the world of student radio. read more..
Award for Nick - 01 Nov 2007
Congratulations to former pupil Nick Dougherty, yesterday named as the European Tour Golfer of the Month for October. read more..
Seventy years of memories - 09 Oct 2007
It was 1937 when Old Blackburnians, Denis Bleasdale, Albert Parker, Jim Whittaker and Harold Stancliffe met as friends in form 2B. Seventy years later they are still the best of friends. read more..
Great win for Dougherty - 07 Oct 2007
Nick Dougherty today won the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at the home of golf, St Andrews. read more..
Good day for ex-QEGS football stars - 01 Oct 2007
Saturday's football matches saw former QEGS pupils Chris Porter and Frank Fielding both in the news. read more..
Valediction to David Hempsall - 24 Sep 2007
The following item, looking back on Dr David Hempsall's 12 years as Headmaster at the school, was written by Chairman of Governors, Mr John Barker. It is published in the school's annual magazine, Q Review 2006-7. read more..
Calligraphers wanted - 04 Sep 2007
A volunteer calligrapher is needed to help the Development Office by recording names of supporters in the Book of Benefaction. read more..
Donald revisits old war-time haunts in Tunisia - 13 Aug 2007
On a recent trip to Southern Tunisa, Old Blackburnian Donald Barnes (1931-1936) stirred up memories of his war-time service read more..
Joe's dash from court to Cambridge just in time for dinner! - 12 Jun 2007
Barrister Joe Hart,(1988-1995) had to make a quick exit from court on Friday June 8th to get to St Catharine's College Cambridge in time to join the other guests for the combined Oxford and Cambridge Dinner. After dinner Joe proposed the toast to the school. read more..
OBA Secretary gives thanks - 11 Jun 2007
John Wishart (1950-1960), Secretary of the Old Blackburnians' Association, thanked everyone involved and said that he hoped that the success of this year's combined dinner would encourage others to become involved in future years.
Guests at the dinner were:
Tariq Ahmad (1971-1977); Aseer Akhter (1992-2000); Jack Baldwin (1997-2004); Peter Coombe (1997-2004); Georgina Dixon (Guest); James Elliott (1986-1996);James Forrest (1992-2002); Joe Hart (1988-1995); Dr David Hempsall (Headmaster); Diane Hempsall (Guest); Chris Hunwick (1989-1996); Geraldine Hunwick (Guest); Joanna Lavelle (Director of Appeals); Dr Colin Law (1945-1952); Jonathan Oracz (1992-2002); Mandeep Singh (1992-2002); Yusuf Undre (1996-2006); John Wishart (1950-1960). read more..
Professor Johnson says Grace - 11 Jun 2007
After a welcome by event organiser Mandeep Singh (1992-2002) Professor Chris Johnson (1941-1949) said Grace. read more..
Peter treks for charity - 10 Jun 2007
Old Blackburnian Peter Hobkirk strapped on his walking boots to complete the 95 miles of Scotland's West Highland Way. The walk which runs from Milngavie north west of Glasgow to Fort William is Scotland's longest footpath.
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Frankie's an international - 25 May 2007
Young goalkeeper Frank Fielding played two games recently for the England Under-19 football team. The side lost 1-2 to Holland at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry but bounced back a few days later to defeat the Czech Republic 2-0 at Northamption Town's Sixfields Stadium.
Frank is the regular reserve team 'keeper for Blackburn Rovers and was rewarded with a senior squad number during the season just completed. read more..
QEGS artist designs stamps for the Isle of Man - 04 Apr 2007
The stamps feature Dr Jeremy Paul's paintings of birds of the Isle of Man and were issued to raise money for the Manx Bird Atlas, a charity set up in 1997 by Chris Sharpe to research the habits of the islands breeding and wintering birds. www.gov.im/post/stamps
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" I spend many hours in the field observing wildlife and looking for settings" - 03 Apr 2007
Born in Accrington, Jeremy Paul(QEGS 1965-1972) had a successful career as a marine biologist before becoming a professional artist, his work taking him to live in some remote and beautiful areas, acting as an inspiration for his paintings. Well known for paintings of British wildlife, he has also travelled extensively in Africa, India and most recently Antartica to obtain reference material. Completely self taught, he works in acrylics, developing the painting in many layers of paint with extensive use of underpainting and glazes to alter the tone and atmosphere of the work. read more..
David raises the baton to raise money for charity - 02 Apr 2007
Old Blackburnian David Smalley (QEGS 1953-1961) conducted a concert at Blackburn Cathedral in aid of Lancashire International Disaster Charities Trust Appeal. The concert featured new organ pieces composed by David and played by Stuart Corrie and it also featured choirs from local schools and the Conchord Singers and raised œ2000 on the night. read more..
London Dinner 23 February 2007 by Glenn Blake Chairman OBA - 09 Mar 2007
The RAF Club in Piccadilly was the venue for the '07 London Dinner. What a prestigious venue it was too! Thanks must go to Old Blackburnian Brian Corbett (pictured) who, as an RAF Club member, was able to book the venue on our behalf. Over 50 guests had booked but due to problems on the Underground some members were delayed and three were unable to get there at all. The event was organised by the School's Appeals Director, Joanna Lavelle in conjunction with Brian (43-47) and a big thank you is due for what was a very enjoyable evening. Brian also officiated as MC and with a plethora of Lancastrians in attendance the Queen, the Duke of Lancaster was proposed as the loyal toast by Brian. read more..
The Headmaster's last QEGS London Dinner - 08 Mar 2007
The Headmaster, Dr David Hempsall, gave a succinct and serious speech on the school and some of the challenges that will face the incoming Headmaster, Mr Simon Corns. This was Dr Hempsall's last London Dinner in his current role, but we hope that it will not be his last when he becomes an Old Blackburnian following his retirement at the end of August. read more..
Chief Guest David Prest proving his school cap still fits (almost!) - 08 Mar 2007
The Chief Guest was David Prest (75-85) who recounted a number of anecdotal memories of his time at QEGS along with some during his very successful broadcasting career. David runs his own production company, Whistledown Productions who are the largest independent supplier of programmes for BBC Radio. read more..
Dr Tom Hyde introducing the Guest Speaker - 08 Mar 2007
Tom Hyde (77-85) prepared a witty and well-researched introduction to David Prest. read more..
2008 plans underfoot already - 07 Mar 2007
The school song, Cantilena, was sung to the accompaniment of Jeffrey Ahmed (93-03). The formal part of the evening ended at 22.15 but many guests continued to enjoy the distinguished surroundings and facilities of the RAF Club.
Plans are already afoot for the next London Dinner The Institution of Civil Engineers has been proposed as a possible venue. read more..
Martyn heading for colder climes - 01 Mar 2007
Old Blackburnian Martyn Stott (1990-2000) is packing his bags for an Arctic expedition next month. Martyn will be one of a team of six heading for Spitsbergen in the north of Norway, where he will be involved in data collection on the habits and habitats of polar bears. The bears are already being affected by the effects of global warming and Martyn and his colleagues will be feeding back their findings to the Ice Warrior project, which will ensure they reach scientists throughout the world. Martyn is hoping to raise œ5,000 in sponsorship to help fund the research trip and if anyone can help him he would be pleased to discuss the options available. Martyn can be contacted on rockstott@yahoo.co.uk read more..
Data protection - 21 Feb 2007
In line with the Data Protection Act and school policy, the Development Office does not disclose the addresses of staff or former pupils to third parties. We are however pleased to offer a post box service, forwarding letters on behalf of alumni to contemporaries and friends with whom they have lost touch. read more..
Calling OBs in the Asia Pacific Region - 20 Feb 2007
Ian Webb (61-68), currently working for Baker Tilly in Bangkok, would be delighted to hear from any OBs in the Asia Pacific region ("it's a small place!") and his email address is ian.webb@btos.net
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Ben scoops top army award - 15 Feb 2007
Ben Gooder (1999-2004) was awarded the Hammersley Trophy for Physical Training at his recent passing out parade at the Army Training Regiment, Lichfield. The award was presented to Ben by the Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor Colin Greatorex. Ben is now about to start trade training with the Royal Signals at Blandford Camp read more..
Christian becomes BBC Rome Correspondent - 10 Jan 2007
Christian Fraser (1982-1992) has left BBC Five Live to become the BBC's Correspondent in Rome. read more..
Tobias passes out - 02 Jan 2007
Former pupil Tobias Taylor enjoyed his Passing Out ceremony and Commissioning Ball at Sandhurst Royal Military Academy last month.
Tobias, who was a pupil at QEGS from 1995-2002, is pictured here with his brother Nathan (OB 1991-98). Tobias has now been appointed a Second Lieutenant with the Adjutant General's Corps based at Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire and we wish him well for his career in the Army. read more..
Curry Mile author returns to his roots - 07 Dec 2006
Old Blackburnian Zahid Hussain is planning a return trip to Blackburn next month to read from his new book The Curry Mile. The reading takes place at Blackburn Library on January 19th. read more..
Godfather ties the knot for Old Blackburnian Sarah and her fiance - 07 Dec 2006
"On a very blustery day in August Old Blackburnian Sarah McLean became Mrs Tudgey when she married her fiance - Rob at the Parish Church in Falmouth where her new father-in-law is the vicar. The ceremony was performed by Rob's godfather.
Other Old Blackburnians at the ceremony included Rachel Pickup, Ben McCormack and Edward Clegg who read W B Yeats ""He Wishes for Cloths of Heaven""
After leaving QEGS in 1994 Sarah read English at Durham University followed by studies at College of Law London where she gained her CPE and LPC. Following this she embarked on a career in corporate pensions in the city before embarking on her travels - first with a stint in Bolivia as volunteer teacher followed by time in Barcelona.
She is now dividing her time between where she lives with Rob and Cambridge where she is studying for a PGCE in Primary Education at the University of Cambridge." read more..
A Honeymoon in South America for Old Blackburnian Dr Richard Fish (87/94) - 21 Nov 2006
The thirty-degree temperature at the reception in Samlesbury Hall was good preparation for Richard and his bride Charlotte when they set off on their South American honeymoon in Peru and Brazil following their wedding at Ormskirk Parish Church in the summer.
Richard and Charlotte met at Edinburgh University where both studied medicine. Richard is now pursuing a career as a General Practioner whilst Charlotte is working as a psychiatrist.
Many QEGS former pupils joined the celebrations including Richard's brother Andrew Fish (91/96)and school friends Andrew Edwards (87/94) Robert Taylor (87/94) and from a slightly older generation Leslie Stone (43/47) and Gordon Hodgson (49/56). Trumpeter Dr Elliott Longworth (84/94) gave a musical performance in the church. Richard and Charlotte hope to relocate to Lancashire in the near future.
(The wedding photograph is provided by photo journalist Caroline Holden) read more..
Ken Butterworth - 21 Nov 2006
It is with regret that we announce the death of Old Blackburnian Kenneth Butterworth who attended QEGS from 1935 to 1940. Our sympathies go Ken's widow Doris and his family and friends. read more..
Charles (Bob) Darwent 1936-2006 - 16 Nov 2006
Charles Robert (Bob) Darwent, aged 70, died on October 28, 2006, at his home near Calgary after a long struggle with Lou Gehrig?s Disease. Two Old Blackburnians, Roy Ashcroft and Roger Pilkington, were visiting him at the time to relate news from the OB?s dinner held in Calgary the previous evening.After leaving school, Bob served in the Royal Army Service Corps in Thailand, Malaya, Singapore and Hong Kong, later working as Assistant Purser for two years with the Cunard Steamship Company mainly on board the Queen Mary.
In 1965 Bob and his wife and family moved to Trinidad where he worked as branch manager for an import/export company. They immigrated to Canada in 1968. He made contact with our little newly-formed group of Old Blackburnians in 1972. A few years later we were greatly surprised when Bob announced that he had been called to the Bar, having obtained an LL B from the University of London, with Honours. At one time the only Spanish-speaking lawyer in Alberta, thanks, as he said, to Leo Collier! A year ago Bob decided to devote his remaining time to doing ?something useful instead of just sitting in his wheelchair waiting to die? (his own words). He founded the Metta Foundation to help some of the children of Thailand, either AIDS-infected or orphans, resident at the Mercy Centre in Bangkok.
At his funeral service in Calgary Old Backburnians took an active part, calling attention to the School motto ? Disce Prodesse ? which Bob surely attained.
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Howard Ponsonby 1943-2006 - 16 Nov 2006
It is with regret that we announce the death of Howard Ponsonby who attended QEGS from 1956-1961. Howard represented the School in the Cross Country for which he gained House Colours. Our sympathies go to his widow Ursula and children Hanna and Benjamin. read more..
Captain Phil Hodgson (1987-1994) in North Sea Rescue Drama - 02 Nov 2006
Helicopter pilot, Phil Hodgson with First Officer, Pete Moggridge flew in stressful conditions in the harsh off-shore environment almost continously for nearly eight hours with only one 25 minute break as part of a team to rescue 58 people from a fire aboard a North Sea storage platform.
The drama began with a distress radio signal from Centrica which operate a massive off-shore natural gas storage reservoir in the North Sea. There had been an explosion aboard which had resulted in a fire. The decision was taken to fully evacuate all the personnel and transfer them to a nearby platform prior to being sent back to Humberside as it would be a quicker means of achieving a safe platform shutdown. The failure of all main power and phone lines prompted the decision to evacuate both platforms. The drama which had started with a distress call at 11.00 am finished with the final flight at 21.38 to collect the last seven personnel read more..
Frank Mercer (1943-1948) - 01 Nov 2006
It is with regret that we announce the death of Frank Mercer CEng FIEE (1943-1948). After being awarded his school certificate he left school in the lower V1 to take up a post with the Blackburn Electric Company shortly before the electrical supply industry was nationalised. His career spanned 42 years within the North Western Electrical Board, where he rose to Technical Director in Manchester. A father of two and grandfather of four he was a dedicated member of his local church in Lowton (Warrington) and for over 25 years was an officer and later, Captain of the 1st Lowton Boys Brigade Company read more..
Eric's books celebrate East Lancs' history - 25 Oct 2006
"Former pupil Eric Greenwood was an especially welcome visitor to school when he called in to present copies of both volumes of his history of the East Lancashire Club. The books chart the playing record of the Alexandra Meadows club (and next door neighbours of the Grammar School) from 1864 to 1944 and from 1945 to 2003. Many a famous former pupil played cricket for ""East Lancs"" down the years and the books are a splendid addition to the growing collection of publications written by former pupils. Thank you, Eric." read more..
Danielle wins science scholarship - 22 Sep 2006
Last year's Head of School, Danielle Ormandy, has been granted an Ogden Trust Undergraduate Science Scholarship to help her studies towards a degree in Medicine at St Andrews University.
Danielle, who won an Ogden Trust Sixth Form Science Scholarship to enable her to come to QEGS from Norden High School in Rishton, has just embarked on her degree course and was delighted to convey the news when she travelled back from Scotland to attend the annual PrizeGiving ceremony at King George's Hall. read more..
OBA Golf tournament winners - 21 Sep 2006
Belated congratulations to Rick Grogan, winner of the Sir Gilbert Gerrarde Cup for the first time the OBA's annual golf day, held at the Wilpshire Golf Club in June, and to Andrew Norman, who carded the best gross score to win the Judge Walmysley Trophy. read more..
Leslie Eckersall 1926-2006 - 01 Aug 2006
It is with regret that we announce the death of Leslie Eckersall (1934-1943)Leslie trained as an architect at the Northen Polytechnic in Holloway. After a career in private pracice he joined the Property Services Agency in 1975. An active member of the Rotary Club of Heston and Isleworth he is survived by his widow Irene. read more..
Brian Bearshaw and Peter Lamster - 19 Jul 2006
We were very sorry to hear of the deaths this month (August) of Brian Bearshaw (OB 1944-48) and Peter Lamster (OB 1958-65), two Old Blackburnians closely involved with the world of cricket.
Mr Bearshaw worked for 30 years for the Manchester Evening News, the last 20 years as its cricket correspondent, and went on five tours to Australia as cricket correspondent with the England team. He wrote a number of books, including an official history of Lancashire County Cricket Club, published in 1990. He died after a long illness and we send our sincere condolences to his widow, Jeanette, and their three children.
Peter Lamster was chairman and the driving force behind Darwen Cricket Club. A prominent local solicitor and a governor of two Darwen schools, Peter died suddenly this week and our deepest sympathies go out to his widow, Barbara, and the couple's two daughters. read more..
Geoffrey Hilton Tate 1928-2006 - 05 Jul 2006
"It is with regret that we announce the death of one of QEGS former teachers Mr Geoffrey Tate. Mr Tate was Head of Geography and Careers Master, in addition to being Group Scoutmaster at Queen Elizabeth's from 1951 to 1966. Mr Brian Aspden another former student of QEGS sent the following account of Mr Tate's funeral on June 26. ""The church was full. Jill, one of his daughters, gave a moving account of Geoff?s life, reminding those who attended QEGS of his home Robin?s Nest on Dukes Brow together with stories of Geoff as a family man and as a professional.
Geoff was heavily involved in the life of the local church of St. Mary The Virgin at Felpham and several of the clergy friends played their part in the service with Fr Robert Harris recounting that Geoff?s sermons usually had a geographical basis and that on their regular meetings, discussions rambled round family life with the real business being left until Avril, Geoff?s wife and daughter of another QEGS teacher (Jeffrey Mercer ? Classics), finally suggested that the vicar had other things to do. This I can understand for Geoff was most helpful at the time I had decided to become a teacher. Nothing seemed too much trouble and I spent hours with Geoff even though I had already left QEGS some three years prior to this."" Brian Aspden
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Professor Raymond Billington talks Philosophy with QEGS Sixth Form - 21 Oct 2004
Professor Ray Billington (OB 1941-45) visited school to talk to the Sixth Form about the values of studying Philosophy. In a wide ranging talk covering politics, education and religion, Professor Billington encouraged the students to see the value of asking questions.
Before giving his talk Professor Billington had a surprise reunion with a former classmate from 40 years ago. When Blackburn-based Ray Bates read that Professor Billington was coming to QEGS he made a point of being there to meet him. read more..
Professor Billington and Ray Bates - 20 Oct 2004
Ray Billington and Ray Bates meet again after 40 years with the portrait of Arthur Holden watching over them. read more..
Michaelmas Term London Dinner October 16 - 17 Oct 2004
The evening was organised by Richard Green (OB 1961-68) with support from Peter Lynch (OB 1965-73) who proposed the toast to the school. David Forbes the chairman of governors and himself an old boy gave the response and the Headmaster Dr David Hempsall talked about future developments at QEGS read more..
The guests finished the evening with an enthusiastic version of the school song - 16 Oct 2004
- Which was sung in several keys read more..
Many school decades were represented from 1939 to 2004 - 16 Oct 2004
Gordon Smith from 1939 joined recent leavers Jeff Ahmed, Alex George and Richard Holden from 2003/4 read more..
