STOPFORDIAN

DECEMBER, 1951 ONE SHILLING

The Magazine of the Stockport Grammar Schnnl

Vol. X. No. 25.EDITORIAL.

DECEMBER 1951.

This term has proved to be one of great historical interest for the School.After three months of building, the War Memorial Organ was unveiled duringan impressive Remembrance Service on November 12th. It will stand as apermanent memorial to those Old Boys of the School who sacrificed theirlives in both World Wars.We have acquired new Playing Fields : a 9-acre site on Dialstone Lane hasbeen given on a 100-year lease, with the probable option of renewal at the endof that period. Full advantage will be taken of this new ground as soon aspossible.But most of us will remember the term for a more personal reason : the lossof Mr. Hardie, of a man whose deep humanity earned him the respect andgratitude of all those with whom he worked and lived.

A. J. S.* A »

DE OMNIBUS REBUS.School Officers for the Term have been :—•Head Prefect : F. G. C. Atkinson.Prefects : R. J. Day, R. M. Hammond, D. Hopwood, S. D. Lawrence, D. J.Smith, R. N. Speake, I. R. Stubbs, P. Worthington, G. Burgess.Captain of Rugby : I. R. Stubbs. Vice-Captain : F. G. C. Atkinson.Captain of Lacrosse : D. Hopwood. Vice-Captain : S. D. Lawrence.Captain of Fives : F. G. C. Atkinson.Captain of Swimming : E. Dunmore.Captain of Chess : D. J. Blamphin.Games Secretaries : Rugby, R. B. Nelson ; Lacrosse, P. Worthington ; Fives,F. G. C. Atkinson ; Badminton, D. Hopwood ; Swimming : P. C. Moth ;Chess, D. G. Blamphin.House Captains : Nicholson, F. G. Atkinson ; Arden, D. J. Smith ; Warren,G. Burgess ; Vernon, R. V. Brunt.Secretaries of Societies and Clubs : Debating and Literary, A. J. Stevenson ;Dramatic, R. V. Brunt ; Music, D. Hopwood ; Arts and Crafts, D. A. Bom-ford ; Railway, R. G. Turner ; Photographic, R. G. Turner ; ChristianFellowship : A. L. Hargreaves.Assistant Librarians : M. A. Smith, R. G. Turner.Sub-Librarians : T. B. Johnson, M. H. Sheldon, R. B. Walton.Flight-Sergeant of A.T.C. : M. K. Mantell.Editor of Magazine : A. J. Stevenson.We extend the heartiest congratulations to the following boys who have ob-tained scholarships on their performance in the examination for the GeneralCertificate of Education in July this year :—-

Page One

D. W. Price and P. Worthington have both gained State Scholarships. R. N.Speake and R. Moffitt have both been awarded Cheshire County UniversityScholarships, and P. Worthington has gained a Stockport Major UniversityScholarship.All the above boys are of VI Maths., their scholarship papers having beentaken in Physics and Chemistry.We also congratulate Mr. Charles Royle on his election as M.P. for WestSalford and, furthermore, for the fact that he was the first elected memberof the present Parliament to appear on Television. West Salford is famousfor its early results, but this year we understand two other constituenciesannounced their results by Telegraph before that of West Salford. Still, itwas nice to see an Old Stppfordian televised first. There is something historicin that fact, and S.G.S. is rich in historic precedents.Writing of Television reminds us that on October 20th a televised SportsQuiz took place between a school team representing the North, and anotherrepresenting the Midlands. The former team was composed of a boy fromBolton School, a girl from Whalley Range, and a boy from Stockport GrammarSchool, Geoffrey Crowther. Crowther answered very well and helped theNorth to win by 15 points to 13 J.In the interest of those studying German, Mr. Herrmann will take a party ofboys to Switzerland this year for the winter sports.We heartily welcome Mr. D. G. D. Yorke, M.A. (Downing College, Cam-bridge), who has come .to teach Geography in place of Mr. Varley. Mr.Yorke has also had experience at Dorchester Grammar (1946-8) and Cambridgeand County High Schools (1948-51).We bid welcome also to Mr. D. J. Roberts, B.A. (Christ's College, Cambridge),who has come to take Classics in the place of Mr. A. L. R. Perry, who went toTruro. The Stopfordian hopes that both these Masters will have a happytime amongst us. Our good wishes are likewise extended to two teachingstudents this term, Mr. J. V. Morris, B.A., who has come to study the teachingof French, and Mr. T. R. Williams, N.D.D., from the Manchester College ofArt, who is in the capable charge of Mr. J. Stanley, Art Master.Mr. G. C. Verney, B.Mus., F.R.C.O., commenced his duties as Organist ofSt. George's Church, Poynton, on December 2nd.As we go to print a Christmas Fair is about to be held at the School on December8th. As that of last year was such an outstanding success, it is hoped that thisfunction will raise the few remaining hundreds required to pay for the School'shandsome new organ, of which more is written elsewhere in this issue.

* * *

VALETE.VI Literary, ZthYear, J. F. C. Paine (1940-51), Arden House. School Prefect1949-51 ; Senior Prefect, 1950-51 ; Form Prize, 2 German ; Hallam Con-tinuation Scholarship, 1946 ; School Certificate, 1947 ; Letters of Credit,Higher School Certificate, 1949, 1950 ; General Certificate of Education(Advanced Level), 1951 ; School Gold Medal, 1951 ; School Choir, 1941-42,1949-51 ; Debating and Literary Society ; Railway Club ; Stamp Club ;Dramatic Society ; History Society ; Arts and Crafts Society ; Music Society,1946-51 (Treasurer, 1947-48) ; School Librarian, 1947-51 ; Head Librarian,1949-51 ; Christmas Fair Committee, 1950 ; A.T.C., 1948-51 ; 1st Class,1949 ; Proficiency Certificate (Part B), 1950 ; Glider Pilot's "A" Certificate,1950 ; Corporal, 1950 ; Sergeant, 1951. (Left July).VI Literary, 3rd Year, J. B. Rhodes (1942-51), Nicholson House. SchoolCertificate, 1948 ; Higher School Certificate, 1950 ; General Certificate ofEducation (Advanced Level), three subjects, 1951 ; Form Prize, V Literary ;Admiral Back Geography Prize, 1950 ; Hallam Continuation Scholarship,1947 ; School Badminton, 1950-1 ; School 2nd XV Rugger ; House 1st XVRugger, 1949-51 ; Colours, 1951 ; House Swimming Colours, 1951 ; HouseTennis, 1950-1 ; Arts and Crafts ; Debating and Literary Society. (LeftJuly).

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VI Literary, 3rdYear, K. F. Turner (1941-51), Arden House. School Prefect,1949-51 ; House Captain, 1950-51 ; School Certificate, 1948 ; HigherSchool Certificate, 1950 ; General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level),1951; Robinson History Prize, 1951 ; Senior School Reading Prize, 1951 ;Middle School Reading Prize, 1947 ; School Rugger XV, 1949-51 ; Colours,1950 ; Vice-Captain, 1950 ; Captain, 1950-51 ; School Seven-a-Side Team,1950-51 ; Davenport Public Schools XV, 1950, Captain, 1951 ; Prefects v.School Seven-a-Side Match, 1951 ; School Fives, 1951 ; School SportsCommittee, 1949-51 ; House Rugger XV, 1949-50 ; Colours, 1949 ; HouseSeven-a-Side Team, 1950 ; House Cricket 1st XI, 1949, 51 ; Colours, 1951 ;2nd XI, 1948, 50 ; 3rd XI, 1946 ; House Lacrosse X, 1951, Colours, 1951 ;House Soccer, 1st XI, 1948-49, Colours, 1949 ; 2nd XI, 1947-48 ; 3rd XI,1946-7 ; House Boxing, 1947-51 ; Colours, 1948-50 ; House Swimming,1943, 45-7 ; House Fives, 1951 (Colours) ; House Athletics, 1944-5, 1949-51 ; Colours, 1950-51 ; A.T.C., 1947-51, Flight-Sergeant, 1949-51 ; Pro-ficiency Certificate, 1948 ; A.T.C. Athletics, 1949-50, Wing Championships,1949-50, Group Championships, 1949-50, National Championships, 1949 ;A.T.C. Tennis Wing and Group Championships, 1950 ; Dramatic Society,1947-51 ; secretary, 1950-51 j School Choir, 1942-46, 1947-51 ; Deb. andLit. Society, 1948-51 ; Music Society, 1949-51 ; History Society, 1947-49 ;Archaelogical Society, 1951 (Founder Member) ; Form-captain VI L, J.A. ;Form vice-captain V L. (Left July).

VI Lit., 3rd Year, D. J. Bray (1943-51) Nicholson House. SchoolPrefect, 1951, Open Exhibition to St. John's College, Cambridge, 1950 ;Stockport Municipal Major Schol, 1950 ; Hallam Scholarship, 1947 ; Offerof Stockport Municipal Minor Scholarship, 1944 ; School Certificate, 1948 ;Higher School Certificate, 1950 ; Form Prize VI Lit., 1949 ; Nelstrop Prize,1950 ; English Prize, 1951 ; School Cricket, Colts, 1947, 2nd XI, 1948,Captain, 1951, 2nd XI Colours, 1951, 1st XI, 1949-50 ; House Cricket, 3rdXI, 1946, 1st XI, 1947-51, Colours, 1949 ; School Fives, Colours, 1951 ;Semi-finalist, School Fives tournament, 1951 ; House 1st XV Rugby, 1950-51 ; Dramatic Society, 1949-50 ; School Librarian, 1948-50 ; Debating andLiterary Society, 1947-51 ; Assistant Secretary and Committee Member,1951. (Left July).

VI Literary, 2nd Year, P. D. Holden (1942-51) ; Vernon House. SchoolCertificate, 1949 ; Hallam Continuation Scholarship, 1948 ; General Certifi-cate of Education (Advanced Level), 1951 j School Lacrosse Colts XII,1947-48 ; House 2nd XI Cricket, 1950 ; House 1st XI Cricket, 1951 ; A.T.C.,1949-51 ; Sergeant, 1951 ; Flying Scholarship, 1950 ; Proficiency, 1950 ;Railway Club, 1949 ; Venturers Society, 1948-49 ; Dramatic Society, 1950 ;Founder Member Archeological Society, 1951 ; Debating and LiterarySociety, 1950-51 ; Photographic Society, 1949-51. (Left July).

VI Literary, 2ndYear, B. S. Durose (1943-51), Arden House. School Certifi-cate, 1949 ; General Certificate of Education, Advanced Standard, in Historyand English, 1951 ; Form Vice-Captain, 3A, 4A. ; House 3rd XI Soccer,1945-6 ; House 1st XI Soccer, 1946-9 (Colours, 1948, 49) ; House 3rd XICricket, 1946-7 ; House 2nd XI Cricket, 1948 ; House 1st XI Cricket, 1949-51 (Colours, 51) ; House Lacrosse, 1947-49 (Colours, 49) ; House Fives,1948-9 (Colours, 48, 49) ; House 1st XV Rugger, 1949-51 (Colours, 51) ;House Seven-a-Side Rugger, 1950 ; House Athletics, 1944 ; House Boxing,1949 ; School Colts XI Soccer, 1946-9 ; School 2nd XI Soccer, 1949 ;School 1st XI Soccer, 1949 ; School Colts XI Cricket, 1947-48 (Captain, 48) ;School 2nd XI Cricket, 1949 ; School 1st XI Cricket, 1949-51 (Colours, 49,50, 51) ; Cricket Secretary, 1950 ; Cricket Committee, 1951 ; School 1stXV Rugger, 1950-51 (Colours, 51) ; School Seven-a-Side Rugger, 1951 ;School Sports Committee, 1950-51 ; Vlth Form Badminton Club, 1950 ;Dramatic Society, 1950 ; Debating and Literary Society, 1948-51 (Hon.Treasurer, 1950-51). (Left July).

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VI Literary, 2nd Year, H. K. Goalen (1944-51), Vernon House. SchoolPrefect, House Captain, 1950-51 ; House Vice-Captain, 1949-50 ; MunicipalMinor Scholarship, 1944 ; School Certificate, 1948-49 ; General Certificateof Education, 1951 ; Under 14 Victor Ludorum, 1946, and Open VictorLudorum, 1951 ; School Football, Colts XI, 1945-7, 2nd XI, 1947-8, 1st XI,1948-9 ; School Colours, 1949 ; Secretary, 1949 ; School Cricket, Colts,1946-7, 1st XI, 1948-51 ; School Colours, 1950 and 1951 ; CommitteeMember, 1951 ; School Rugger, 1st XV, 1949-51, Colours, 1950, 1951 ;Secretary, 1949-50 ; Vice-Captain, 1950-1 ; School Seven-a-Side RuggerTeam, 1950 and 1951 ; School Fives, 1951 ; Junior Fives Champion, 1946 ;School Doubles Champion, 1950-1951 ; House Cricket, 1944-51 ; HouseSoccer, 1944-49 ; Rugger, 1949-51 ; House Boxing, 1944-51 ; House Lacrosse1949-51 ; House Tennis, 1949-51 ; House Fives, 1944-51 ; House Swim-ming, 1949-51 ; House Athletics, 1944-51 ; Colours, Cricket, Soccer, Rugger,Boxing ; Captain 3rd and 2nd XI's, Cricket, Soccer, House 3rd and 4th Form ;Committee Member, Dramatic Society, 1947-51 ; Debating and LiterarySociety, 1948-9, 1950-1 ; Choir Member, 1944-51 ; Archeological Society.(Left July).

VI Literary, 1st Year, R. B. Grainger (1943-51), Nicholson House. FormPrize ; Junior Reading Prize, 1945 ; School Certificate, 1948 ; School Choir,1945-49 ; Music Society ; Railway Club ; Venturers' Society, 1947 ; De-bating and Literary Society, 1947-49 ; Dramatic Society, 1949-51 ; SchoolA.T.C., 1951 ; House Lacrosse, 1951 ; School Colts XII Lacrosse, 1948-9 ;School 2nd XII Lacrosse, 1951.

VI Mathematics, 3rd Year, D. W. Price (1941-51), Arden House. Prefect,1949-51 ; Municipal Minor Scholarship, 1943 ; Stockport Major Scholar-ship, 1950 ; State Scholarship, 1951 ; School 1st XI Cricket, 1948-51 ;Captain, 1950-51 ; Secretary, 1949 ; Colts XI Cricket, 1946-47 ; Soccer,1946-47 ; School 1st XII Lacrosse, 1948-51 ; Captain, 1949-51 ; Vice-Captain, Cheshire Schoolboys Lacrosse Team, 1949-51 ; House Vice-Captain,1949-51 ; Committee, 1946-47 ; House Cricket, Rugby, Lacrosse, Soccer,Athletics ; Dramatic Society, 1946-48 ; Secretary of Sixth Form Photo-graphic Society, 1949-51 ; School Certificate, 1948 ; Higher School Certifi-cate, 1950 ; General Certificate (at Advanced Level), 1951 ; Form Prize, J.A.(2nd), IB, 2L, 3A, 5 Science ; Herbert Parkes Physics Prize, 1951. (Left July).

VI Mathematics, SrdYear, W. A. Hamilton (1941-51), Vernon House. SchoolCertificate, 1948 ; School Lacrosse 2nd XII, 1949-51 ; House Lacrosse,Colours, 1950-51 ; House Tennis, Cricket 2nd XI, 1951 ; Railway Club,1945 ; Choir, 1950 ; Photographic Society, 1951. (Left July).

VI Mathematics, 2nd Year, A. Fisher (1944-1951), Warren House. StockportMunicipal Minor Scholarship, 1944 ; School Certificate, 1948, 1949 ; GeneralCertificate of Education (Advanced), 1951 ; School 2nd XI Football, 1947-9 ;School 1st XV Rugby, 1950-51 ; School 2nd XI Cricket, 1950 ; 1st XICricket, 1951 ; Cricket Colours, 1951 ; School Badminton Team, 1950-51 ;House Vice-Captain, 1951 ; House Soccer, 1st XI, 1947-9 ; House Cricket,1st XI, 1949-51 ; House 1st XV Rugby, 1949-51 ; House 1st XII Lacrosse,1948-51 ; House Fives, 1946-51 ; House Boxing, Swimming, Athletics ;House Colours for Soccer, Cricket, Rugby, Lacrosse, Fives ; Debating andLiterary Society ; Music Society ; Dramatic Society ; A.T.C. (Left July).

V Science, J. B. Smith, 1946-51, Warren House. House Cricket 3rd XI,1947-9 ; House Rugby, Bantam XV Captain, 1949-50 ; 1st XV, 1950-51 ;House Fives and Swimming ; House Colours for Cricket, Rugby, Fives,Swimming ; School Colts "B" Football, 1947-9 ; School Bantam XV, 1949-50 ; Colours, 1950 ; School 2nd XV Rugby, 1950-51 ; School Colts CricketXI, 1947-50 ; Vice-Captain, 1950 ; School 2nd XI Cricket, 1951 ; SchoolSwimming ; Form Captain, 2L, 3B, 4A, V Sc. ; Vice-Captain, 1A, 3A ;Arts and Crafts Society, 1948-50 ; Debating and Literary Society, 1950-51 ;General Certificate .of Education (Ordinary Level), 1951. (Left July).

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THE GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION, JULY, 1951.The following list makes no mention of boys who did not pass in two subjectsor more at the Advanced Level, or in five or more subjects at the OrdinaryLevel. Boys who won Scholarships are referred to in de omnibus rebus.Advanced Level (two or more passes) : F. G. C. Atkinson, G. H. Booth,W. K. Brookes, A. Caine, M. J. Dixon, B. S. Durose, H. K. Goalen, P. D.Holden, D. Hopwood, F. R. Huxley, P. K. Massey, N. H. Oldham, J. F. C.Paine, J. B. Rhodes, D. J. Smith, M. A. Smith, A. J. Stevenson, K. F. Turner,P. J. Wilkinson, A. A. D. Wiseman, R. J. Day, E. J. Dearnaley, P. L. Evans,A. Fisher, N. A. Haworth, G. C. Hipwell, S. D. Lawrence, M. K. Mantell,R. Moffitt, D. W. Price, A. T. Richardson, A. Roberts, R. N. Speake, I. R.Stubbs, J. R. T. Tonge, R. G. Turner, R. Voss, P. Wolstenholme, P. Worth-ington.

Ordinary Level (five or more passes) : D. G. Blamphin, D. Brunskill, C-Clancy, I. S. Cresswell, D. S. Duke, E. Dunmore, R. Fallows, G. D. Holmes,R. A. Jackson, F. C. Kay, B. M. Little, M. S. Mort, R. Newsham, J. B. Smith,M. R. Wootton, W. Bourne, G. F. Burns, D. C. Cheadle, J. Finneran, P. R.Foster, J. D. Gilbertson, D. P. Milner, B. Rickson, C. Rogers, G. M. Rowarth,B. S. Williamson, G. E. Wright, I. G. Lennox, C. R. Ford.

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JL+NICHOLSON HOUSE.

At the end of last term the House met withmixed fortune in the various sporting activities.The most outstanding success in the history ofNicholson was achieved when the House wonthe previously evasive Cricket Shield. On theother hand, however, Nicholson finished fourthin the Summer Swimming Sports and also inthe Athletic Sports. Hipwell left us at the endof last term and Oldham, N. H., was elected tothe committee in his place.

In the last issue of " The Stopfordian " I madethe following request : " let us all make next

year the finest year in the history of Nicholson." The results of the variousmatches played so far this term have illustrated how magnificently the Househas risen to answer this request.

• We have played Arden and Vernon at rugby and lacrosse. The 1st XV werefortunate enough to draw .9-9 (Try : Hammond ; Penalty Goals : Smith,C. G. (2)) but there was no doubt at all about the Bantam 54-0 defeat of theirArden opponents (Tries : Summerfield (11) ; Davies (1) ; Goals : Sum-merfield (6), Souter (3) ). In the matches against Vernon, both the Houseteams had comfortable victories : the 1st XV won most convincingly 36-0(Tries : Atkinson (7), Oldham, N. H. (1), Johnson (1) ; Goals : Danby (3),Atkinson (1)), and the Bantam XV also won, 17-8 (Tries : Summerfield (5) ;Goal : Summerfield). The results of the two House lacrosse matches aremost encouraging. The strong Arden team were defeated 6-4 (Walton (3),Gribbin (2), Allport (1)) and the House gained a further victory over Vernon,8-2 (Gribbin (2), Day (2), Allport (1), Walton (1), Bailey (1), Atkinson (1) ).The only other activity this term has been a fives match against Arden. The" open " pair, Atkinson and Day; lost 11-15, 15-10, 12-15, but the other twopairs atoned for this defeat ; Knight and Campbell winning by 2 games tonil and Brandes and Davies staged a grand recovery to win by 2 games to 1after losing the first game. Consequently, the match was won by 5 games to 3.In my first House Notes I made the following statement : "I am pleased tosee that the House spirit is returning and this, in time, is bound to have itseffect." I am now glad to say that this effect is taking place and if the promiseand enthusiasm shown this term is maintained, many successes will be achievedthis year.

G. ATKINSON.

Page Six

Tenebo

WARREN HOUSE.

Owing to the fact that many senior boys leftlast term, the following officers were elected atthe beginning of the term : Captain, Burgess ;Vice-Captain, Duke ; Committee Members, God-dard and Brunskill.This term we have played two House rugbymatches. The first was against Vernon, whomwe beat on the 1st XV by 11-5, but our BantamXV were outplayed and lost by 44-0. The 1stXV played very well and it is difficult to mentionnames because every member of the team playedsplendidly. Tries were scored by Goddard,Brunskill and Burgess, and Duke converted oneof them. The Bantams had a hard game againsta strong Vernon team and would have donebetter if they had tackled low.

The second House match was against Arden. The 1st XV drew 6-6, whilethe Bantam XV lost by 15-3. The 1st XV played well and should have won,but unfortunately Arden scored two excellent drop goals. If we had givenour three-quarters the ball more instead of kicking for touch we would prob-ably have won. Duke played a grand game, scoring both our try and ourpenalty goal. The Bantams, after scoring first through Wood, were unluckyto lose.In the Lacrosse match against Vernon we won by 10-5. The team played welland we would have won by a greater margin if we had fielded a complete team.Andrew played excellently, as did Lawrence (i), who scored three goals, andWilkinson and Duke who scored two goals each.In the Lacrosse match against Arden, after taking the lead, we unfortunatelylost finally by 9-5. This was due mainly to some bad marking on our part.We beat Vernon by 6-0 at Fives. Our 1st pair, Goddard and Burgess, playedwell enough to beat their pair, while our 2nd and 3rd pairs, Ashley and Hesketh,and Tomlinson and Falser respectively, played excellently, both winningby 2-0.Warren House is strongly represented in Boxing and confidently expects thatwe shall hold a prominent position.Before closing I should like to add that at the end of last term Warren Housecame third in both the swimming sports and the Athletic sports. And finally,I should like to thank Mr. H. D. Smith and Mr. W. Johnston for their helpand encouragement throughout the term.

G. BURGESS.

ARDEN HOUSE.

This has been a very eventful term. However,before describing its events, something must besaid concerning the happenings towards the endof the summer term. Arden won the athleticscup after a keen struggle, and finished second inboth the swimming and cricket competitions,thus again winning the elusive Fallows shield.Owing to the departure of the majority of theofficials of the previous year, a new committeehad to be elected. These were the results :I. R. Stubbs, vice-captain ; E. Dunmore andJ. C. Case, committee members.

Patientia Vinces So far, the Bantams and the 1st XV have playedtwo rugby matches, against Nicholson andWarren. The 1st XV games have both been

drawn : 9-9 v. Nicholson, and 6-6 v. Warren (when we missed the services

Page Seven

of our vice-captain, Stubbs), both rather disappointing results. Each matchwas a hard struggle and Arden were rather fortunate in drawing the Warrengame (Arden equalising only in the closing minutes by means of 2 droppedgoals). The Bantams were completely overwhelmed by Nicholson, or ratherby Summerneld who scored 45 of his side's 54 points. There was a decidedimprovement in the match v. Warren, whom the Bantams beat 15-3 : thiswas a good team triumph and must have done much to restore their shakenconfidence.

The lacrosse team, too, has played matches against Nicholson and Warren,losing to the former 4-6, but beating the latter, 9-5. The result of the matchagainst Warren was especially encouraging, as they have in their house mostof the school's outstanding lacrosse players : a great deal of praise for thisvictory is undoubtedly due to Hopwood, the school lacrosse captain, whoplayed splendidly throughout a gruelling game.

Arden have played only one Fives match, against Nicholson, whose 1st pairthey beat, but to whose U.I6 and 3rd form's pair they lost. The victory ofthe open pair was due largely to fine play by Dunmore, who was consistentlybrilliant during a hard, keen, but always sporting contest. The U.16 pair,though beaten 2 games to 0, tried hard against their more experienced opponents.In the remaining match the 3rd form pair were unlucky to lose, and with alittle more stamina might have gained a surprising victory.

I should like to thank Mr. Paine, on behalf of all members of the committee,for his keen interest in all forms of house activity, and for his many helpfulsuggestions for the improvement of the house in general. After thanking allmembers of the committee, particularly my vice-captain, Stubbs, for theirunflagging energy and active support throughout an eventful and interestingterm, I should like to remind every member of the house that it is only throughhis own individual efforts that the house will be able to retain the most covetedof school trophies, the Fallows shield. Keep it up, Arden !

D. J. SMITH.

VERNON HOUSE.

The following officers were elected at the begin-ning of term : R. V. Brunt (House Captain),R. M. Hammond (Vice-captain), J. Wyness andL. P. Jones (committee members).

This has been a very disappointing term forVernon up to the time of writing. The househas been considerably weakened owing to alarge number of the senior members of theHouse leaving. This has necessitated re-shuffling the various house teams to a greatextent and our inexperience has been sadlyevident. Our 1st XV has been most affected,

Ver Non Semper Viret and very few members of last years' team arestill with us. In our match with Warren, althoughthey were a weakened team, we lost 5-11, and

though we held our own for a while, mistakes let them through in the laterstages of the game. Some excuse can be offered for this result in that we werea new team with no experience of playing together, but not so for our matchagainst Nicholson. Almost immediately we were a goal in arrears and wenever throughout the match even looked like playing any sort of rugby. Thetackling particularly was deplorable and we should have lost by an even greatermargin but for some extra effort in the second half. This was a very poorshowing and we hope to do better in our next match.

The Bantam XV started their matches in a very promising fashion and weregistered our only win to date when they beat Warren bantams 43-0. Withthis start we expected much from their match with Nicholson, but they lost8-17 and, although Vernon were on top in the earlier stages, they faded out

Page Eight

badly later on. This team, however, shows great promise and should do wellin the future.

In the two Lacrosse matches against Warren and Nicholson, we lost 5-10and 2-8. These results were almost entirely owing to our comparative light-ness and the team, when settled down, should do much better. The onlyFives match to date against Warren was lost 0-6, none of our players dis-tinguishing themselves, although our first pair gave Warren a stiff fight atone stage.

As can be seen, this is rather a tale of woe. A long list of defeats which looksvery unpromising on paper and gives no account of the effort that has beenmade, must necessarily appear so. But the House shows promise and keen-ness, and with greater effort we hope to do a great deal better.

R. V. BRUNT.

NEW PLAYING FIELDS.All Schools nowadays seem to require Playing Fields of an extent that wouldhave astounded the fathers of the present generation of schoolboys. WhenStockport Grammar School was provided in 1914 with an eight-acre fieldat its front door it must have seemed that nothing more in this respect couldbe required, yet the demand for playing space has been such that furtheracres have been added to the playing fields in 1933, 1939 and 1943. Thepresent playing area on the actual school premises, excluding the playgroundand the site of the school buildings exceeds eleven acres.

A further nine acres have been acquired for 99 years as from 1st October,1951, and there is no reason why the lease should not be renewable in A.D.2050. That year will, however, dawn upon a very different world from thatof to-day and may be safely left out of our reckoning. The area lies off Dial-stone Lane, approachable also from Mile End Lane, and is therefore lessthan ten minutes walk from the School. The Fields already had some slightconnection with the School in that they formed a part of that area in Stock-port Moor which Edward Warren, Lord of the Manor of Stockport, handedover to the Mayor in February, 1711, for the benefit of the schoolmaster andthe poor of the town. Not far away are some houses which still pay a smallground rent to the school.

The fields were originally purchased by Sir Geoffry Christie-Miller forthe use of his workers in the famous factory in Hillgate, but not being muchused, they were then lent to the Playing Fields Association, whose Committeehave now transferred their use to the School for a trivial rent. Messrs. Christy'sstill have an option on three acres if they care to exercise that option withinfive years. The whole area has been levelled this autumn. The Old Stop-fordians' Football and Lacrosse Clubs will be able to use the new fields onSaturdays, an arrangement that should prove a godsend to them as accessibleplaying fields within handy reach of the town are now almost unobtainable.

The School now has twenty acres of playing fields at its disposal, which shouldbe more than ample in any circumstances, and this opens out new possibilitiesin case the School should at a future time adopt a policy of further expansion.Before the new acquisition, any extension of the present buildings would haveseriously encroached upon land in daily use, but this limitation is now re-moved, though it will probably be necessary to wait for more settled timesbefore taking advantage of that fact.

The School wishes to put on record its deep gratitude to Sir Geoffry Christie-Miller, K.C.B., D.S.O., M.C., D.L., Chairman of the Governors, and thePlaying Fields Association (of which he is Chairman also) for their magnificentcontribution to the welfare of the School. In the long story of StockportGrammar School it ranks as a definite historic event, transforming our pos-sibilities.

Page Nine

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Page Ten

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LACROSSE.

The school first XII, playing in the third division of the North of EnglandLacrosse Association, has started the season creditably, despite the fact thatnearly all the attack are newcomers to the team. Few matches have beenplayed to date owing to the late start to the term and the loss of two weeksoccasioned by the school play ; the results, however, are most encouraging :

GoalsPlayed. Won. Lost. Drawn. For. Against.

5 3 1 1 28 25

The results of the individual matches are as follows :

September 29 v. Old Mancunians "A" (home). Lost 0-14.

School were well and truly outplayed by an obviously superior team, whichwas not surprising since our opponents belong to the Second Division. Schoolcould, however, have put up a better performance than they did.

October 6 v. Oldham and Wemeth "A" (away). Won 14-2.

Unfortunately this score was due not so much to the playing of School asto the fact that our opponents were fielding a rather weak team. The attackhad some shooting practice and made full use of the opportunity. The defencewas rarely troubled by the opposing attack, which was small and rather in-effective.

October 13 v. Nottingham University (home). Drew 5-5.

School were on the whole superior to our opponents in handling, but this wasoffset by the fact that they were a heavier and stronger side and made up inenergy and enthusiasm what they lacked in handling. School will have toput more energy into their play if we are to beat such teams as this.

October 20 v. Urmston "A" (home). Won 5-1.

This was a good result for School. Although Urmston was a much biggerside, the positional play of our attack was such that several good goals werescored, despite a crop of dropped passes. Of note in the defence was theexcellent goalkeeping of Bailey, which, combined with a certain amount ofluck, kept our opponents' score down to one.

Page Eleven

October 27 v. Nottingham University (away). Won 4-3.Nottingham were full of energy from the first whistle, yet the school defenceheld firm and the attack was able to start many movements, some of whichresulted in well-deserved goals. We thank our hosts for an enjoyable dayand a fine game of lacrosse. Of note in the side this year have been Lawrence,who is a tower of strength in the centre, and Allport and Stubbs in the attack,who have improved out of all recognition since last year. Once again wethank Mr. Gosling for his continued enthusiasm and support.

FIVES.The activity in School Fives during this term has been confined to only oneSchool match. The reason for this is that a special effort is being made thisyear to complete the House Fives competition, and two House Fives matcheshave already been played.

School v. Dalton Hall (away). Lost 3-1.Team : (1) Atkinson, Mort ; (2) Smith, D. S., Crowther.School fielded a comparatively green team and Mort and Smith had theirfirst experience of playing in the unfamiliar four-walled court. However,Atkinson and Mort soon settled down against the Hall first pair and as Mortsoon accustomed himself to the new court, the first pair had a comfortablevictory : 15-5, 15-5, 15-12. It took Smith and Crowther longer to settledown. Dalton won the first game 15-9, but in the other two games, the pairplayed a spirited game and although they lost the second, 15-13, they re-covered well to win the last game 16-14. School first pair found the secondpair stiffer opposition than the first, and although they won the first game 15-11,Dalton retaliated and won the other two games closely : 15-10, 17-15. Oursecond pair found the Hall first pair much too strong for them and, althoughthey tried hard all the time, they were beaten fairly easily, 15-10, 15-8, 15-5.The closeness of the match is illustrated in the fact that we only lost the matchby 7 games to 5 and by 154 points to 146. The death of Mr. Hardie willhave come as a great shock to all boys who have been connected with SchoolFives since 1946. One of Mr. Hardie's main interests was fives. It was onlythe dual combination of Mr. Hardie and Mr. W. Johnston that kept the gamealive during the four difficult years after the war. The situation has nowchanged, but Mr. Hardie's loss has been greatly felt. Finally, I should liketo welcome Mr. Granville, the new fives master who will, I know, show greatinterest in this excellent game.

G. ATKINSON.

BADMINTON.Owing to the fact that five of last year's team have left us, we have had diffi-culty in forming a nucleus of players strong enough to compose a side. Theprospect is more encouraging now and there is every hope of playing the staffand possibly an Old Boys' team before Christmas. The Club is now open tothe fifth forms, and members of these and the sixth forms are cordially invitedto play on Monday evenings. We could have done little this term withoutMr. Cassie's help, and we take this opportunity to thank him sincerely.

D. H.* * *

SWIMMING.So far this term the School has had only one swimming match—against BoltonSchool. Although we lost we learned much from it. The contest was closerthan the score indicated. On Wednesday afternoons Mrs. Jones is at theStockport Baths to instruct any of the 1st, 2nd or 3rd forms who wish to come,and is there again after Thursday school to coach the team. We thank alsoMr. Gosling, Mr. Dunkerly and his staff for their kind help.

P. C. MOTH.

Page Twelve

RUGBY FOOTBALL.

It is very encouraging to report that the School XV and the Under Fifteen andUnder Fourteen teams remain undefeated up to half-term. The records of theteams are :

Played Won Lost DrawnSchool XV 5 3 0 2Second XV .. 3 1 2 0Under Fifteen XV .. 2 2 0 0Under Fourteen XV .. .. 1 1 0 0

The weather has been kind and all the matches have been played in excellentconditions. Tuesday-night practices have been well attended and much usefulcoaching has been given. House Captains have again shown considerable keen-ness in organising practices for the junior members of their houses. Housematches have been closely fought ; the standard of play in these games hasimproved considerably.

SCHOOL XV.

Captain : Stubbs, I. R. . Vice-Captain : Atkinson, F. G. C.Secretary : Nelson, R. B.Last season's Colours : Stubbs, Atkinson, Dunmore, Duke, Nelson, Burgess.

Sept. 22 v. Burnage High School (home). Won 11-3.

Burnage led at half-time but School rallied strongly in the second half. Theforwards played a powerful game and a rather inexperienced three-quarter lineproved adequate in defence.

Sept. 29 v. Lady Manners School (home). Won 26-8.

School forwards again dominated the play, particularly in the loose. In thesecond half, the backs were disorganised by an injury to Dunmore and ouropponents were allowed to score two runaway tries.

Oct. 13 v. William Hulme's II (away). Drew 3-3.

Stubbs was injured early in the first half and took no further part in the game.The seven School forwards, well led by Nelson, held the opposing pack stoutly.School attacked for most of the second half and were unlucky not to score.

Oct. 20 v. Liverpool College II (away). Won 12-0.

The forwards played well though they did not often get possession in the line-outs. As a result, the backs did not get much of the ball. Atkinson kicked twogood penalty goals.

Oct. 24 v. Rossall II (home). Drew 0-0.

The teams were very evenly matched. School had slightly the better of thegame in the second half. The forwards again played a strong game and thebacks defended well.

SECOND XV.

This is the first season in which School has fielded a regular Second XV. It isquite a well-balanced though rather young side. The forwards are aggressiveand well together, admirably led by Brunsklll as captain. The halves get the ballout well enough, but stand-off and all the threes have to learn to take passes onthe move. We have still to find the best man for full-back. There is too muchhigh half-hearted tackling.

Page Thirteen

f o r t h e . . .

M

nnn

CRESTED TIES CRESTED SQUARES

STRIPED BLAZERS (LIMITED STOCK)

POCKET BADGES(Original Gilt Wire Badge)

COAT OF ARMS(on Oak Shield, now available)

nnn

rel. STOckport 2890.

Page Fourteen

Sept. 22 v. Burnage High School (away}. Lost 21-22.

Scnool were losing 3-18 at half-time, the result of hesitant tackling against aside quick to seize chances. In the second half, School made an extraordinaryrally, in fine spirit, and only lost by failure to convert a difficult kick. Andxciting game.

Oct. 6 v. Manchester Grammar School III (home). Lost 3-9.School lacked fire, the three-quarters particularly failing to keep position andtackle their men, and Manchester clearly deserved to win.

Oct. 13 v. William Hulme's III (home). Won 6-0.

School forwards were in great heart and worked skilfully in the loose. Thebacks ran and passed quite well, but Hulme's prompt tackling pinned themdown. Danby's strength and attacking spirit were outstanding.

Oct. 20 Under Sixteen XV v. Liverpool College Under Sixteen XV (away).I:ost 0-32.This fifteen, not a regular School side, were well beaten by heavier, faster, andmore skilful opponents.

BANTAMS XV.

Sept. 29 Under Fourteen XV v. Lady Manners School (home). Won 25-8.This was an untidy but lively game dominated by forward play. The bustlingBantams' pack, and the running of Summerfield, were too strong for ourvisitors.

Oct. 13 Under Fifteen XV v. William Hulme's (home). Won 12-9.Drizzly conditions unduly disconcerted our opponents' backs, whose superiorthrust was nullified by wild and dropped passes. Bantams' forwards' ascendencyin the loose and Summerfield's individual efforts were again decisive.

Oct. 24 Under Fifteen XV v. Rossall (home). Won 18-6.

A hard game was won by excellent forward play, especially in line-outs (whereHammond was outstanding) and in the loose, and through our opponents'concession of penalties.

W. S. J.F. J. N.

P. B.

SCHOOL CRICKET.

SCHOOL v. OLD BOYS.

The annual cricket match, School v. Old Boys, resulted in a draw. The Schoolbatted first and eventually reached a total of 186 for 5 wickets, when the inningswas declared closed. Durose gave a very sound display with a penchant forthe square cut in an innings of 104 not out. The Old Boys played out timewith 107 for 6 wickets, D. J. Smith having 5 wickets for 37 and showing byhis actions the effects of professional coaching. There was nothing else ofgreat interest in the match.

I am of the firm opinion that a cricket match should be a cricket match andnot in the nature of a prologue and epilogue to Speech Day.

W. C. BRIERLEY.

Page Fifteen

P il

TomJUNIOR SCHOOL.

The House Captains are as follows : Arden, A. Swift ; Vernon, J. T. Wild jNicholson, P. B. Wagstaff ; Warren, A. M. Hoe. Captain of Football, P. B.Wagstaff ; Vice-Captain, F. O. Williamson.The School Football XI has played two matches to date : v. Bramhall Cubs,won 4-2 ; v. Hillcrest, won 1-0.

JA.Captain : P. B. Wagstaff. Vice-Captain : A. M. Hoe.This term we are doing Handwork with Mr. Bromley and we like it very much.At present we are making Autograph Albums. We went to see the Schoolplay. We liked it and thought the boys played their parts very well.Bradley did very well at the Summer Swimming Sports at the Blue Lagoon.He won two medalsWe have a new boy, Siddons, this term, and we hope he likes being with us.Some of us did interesting things during the Summer holidays. Quite a lotof us visited the South Bank Exhibition in London. Niklaus spent threeweeks in France ; Bowker and Kilby climbed Snowdon ; Deacon caught asalmon in the River Conway ; and Blank saw the Queen Mary at Southampton.

JB.Form Captain : J. R. D. Andrew. Vice-Captain : S. C. Renshaw.We went to the school play on November 5th, and we thought it was a verynice sight. The best thing about it was that Butterfield and Duckworth (girland boy) were in it. We all say the best part was when they were on the stage.We have had quite a good season for football ; it has been a better seasonthan last year because we have had more games.In our Handwork lesson we have built vilkges and castles of match boxes andcardboard and they look very nice.We have got an " Excellent Book," and it is for boys to sign when they dothree pieces of excellent work in succession.Our new classroom looks very nice, we have got a lot of pictures on the walland that makes it look nicer still.We hope to have a Christmas party this year and if we do, we all think weare going to have lots of fun.Some of the boys are going to Stockport Baths, where they are having swim-ming lessons.

Page Sixteen

This is my first term in Junior C. I think everybody likes it very muchThere are some very good paintings on the wall. We have lots of tilings todo in our spare time, and in school-time, too. We are growing some bulbsat the moment.Our form mistress is called Mrs. Johnston. There are thirty boys in ourform when we are all here, but at the moment there is one missing.If we get stuck in writing letters, they are all on the wall. A few days ago wewent to the school play. It was very good acting and was called " Everyman."On November 5th we had some sparklers in the room ; it was lovely : andnow we are looking forward to Christmas.

JD.

This term we have been learning about the people who help us. We havedrawn pictures of our mothers washing and dusting, of the baker, the post-man, the fireman and the policeman. We have sung a song about " The Fire-man."At the beginning of the term we collected fruits and seeds for a Nature Table,arranging them on a tray that Mr. Bromley made for us. Now we are usingthe tray as a counter for a shop that we have built up with cartons and boxesand where we play with cardboard coins. The other day one of the masterswanted to buy some shaving cream there until we explained that the boxwas really empty.We are busy collecting pictures of the Royal Tour of Canada. We mark theroute taken by Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh on a big mapin our room.We always enjoy our band lesson. We play triangles, castanets, tambourinesand a drum. We always wonder which lucky boy will play the drum.We have planted some hyacinth and tulip bulbs. We are looking forward tomaking lots of jolly things for Christmas.

A new name for the Yellow Slip.One of our number was very upset upon the first day of term. When he wasasked what was the matter he replied very tearfully "I've . . . . forgotten. . . . my passport."

The Superiority of the Six-Year Old.The Juniors were returning from their daily sojourn in the gymnasium as anumber of young seniors were playing with a rugby ball on the " cabbagepatch." One of the J.D. boys commented on this to the new little boy hewas escorting, " That is rugby . . . . but I don't suppose you have heardof it, have you ? "

JE.

This is our first term at the Grammar School and we all like school very much.We have made some lovely pictures for our classroom. One is a picture of anapple-tree, and one is of an engine, with nineteen trucks. We like to inviteour mothers into our room to see our pictures and the patterns we have painted.On Friday afternoons we have a concert when we sing our favourite songsand say the rhymes we like the best.We all love story-time and our favourite stories are " Little Black Sambo,"" The Three Billy Goats Gruff," and " Sebastian the Bear."We are getting on fast with our reading and we have made our own littlebooks about Mother, John, Ruth and Rover the dog.When we have games we like to pretend that we are aeroplanes.This Autumn we have collected leaves, nuts and berries. One sunny daywe went into the garden to look for acorns. A butterfly flew into our roomone warm afternoon and we liked watching it.

Page Seventeen

We have planted some bulbs, and if you come to our classroom in the spring-time you will see the daffodils and hyacinths that we have grown.Now we are looking forward to Christmas and all the jolly things that we shalldo then.

CHESS.

At the end of last term the Chess Club suffered a great loss when Mr. Perryleft to teach at Truro College. We would like to express our sincere thanksto him for his unfailing support while he has been at the School. The AnnualGeneral Meeting was held on Monday, September 17th, 1951, and the fol-lowing officers were elected : President, Mr. Brown ; Secretary, D. G. Blam-phin ; Assistant Secretary, N. H. Oldham ; Treasurer, A. Roberts ; AssistantTreasurer, J. G. Stamper ; Captain, D. G. Blamphin. Roberts and Dukehave entered the Manchester and District Individual Championships andhave both won their first round matches. Three boys, Roberts, Stamper andBlamphin, are going to play for Cheshie in the near future in a CorrespondenceMatch. This year the School have again entered the Manchester and DistrictChess League (Schools Section), the Stockport and District Chess League(Schools Section), and the Cheshire Schools Knockout Shield. The season'srecord up to date :

P. W. L. D. For. Against.6 5 1 0 30J 13J

v. Manchester G.S. (home). Won 4-3.(Blamphin, Oldham, Roberts, 1 ; Duke, Hughes, £).

v. Buxton College (away). Won 4J-J).(Roberts, Hughes, Adams, 1 ; Blamphin, Duke, Stamper, J).

v. Cheadle Hulme School (away). Won 4-2.(Baker, Oldham, Roberts, 1 ; Blamphin, Stamper, J).

v. Manchester University Union (away). Lost 3-5.(Oldham, Roberts, Adams, 1).

v. Staff. Won 9H).(Blamphin, Hargreaves, Duke, Oldham, Roberts, Stamper, Hughes,

Adams, Redfern, 1 ; Baker, i).

v. Moseley Hall G.S. (home). Won 5J-J.(Blamphin, Hargreaves, Oldham, Roberts, Stamper, 1 ; Baker, £).

Congratulations go to Roberts who has won all six of his matches. The matchagainst the Staff was held to commemorate the 100th match of the SchoolChess Team. The record since the war is :

P. W. L. D. For. Against.101 56 29 16 408 305

JUNIOR CHESS CLUB.Up to date, the Junior team have only played one match, in which they beata rather inexperienced Avondale team. Their record is :

P. W. L. D. For. Against.1 1 0 0 5J 1J.

Juniors v. Avondale Secondary School (home). Won 5£-lJ.(Moore, Bewley, Dodson, Jones, Brandes, 1 ; Trainor, $).

D. G. B.

Page Eighteen

Social SitkPHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY.

The Photographic Society has continued to flourish this term under the leader-ship and guidance of Mr. Cassie. At the general meeting at the beginning ofthe term it was decided to have meetings of two types—general and beginners'meetings, the latter to introduce the novice to the art and practice of photo-graphy. This was an innovation and we hope it will come up to expectations.It was also decided to open the Society to the 4th Forms as well as the 5thand 6th.Various meetings have been held since then—a talk on Colour Photographyby Mr. Cassie, demonstrations on print finishing and contact printing, etc.,in which members have taken part.The exhibition last Speech Day was a greater success than ever before. Thistime a competition was coupled with the exhibition and was judged by Mr.J. E. Lugton, A.R.P.S., cash prizes being awarded. Mr. Cassie expressed theSociety's thanks to all those who had made possible this exhibition. A totalof 65 prints were entered.Again we must thank Mr. Cassie for his never-ending enthusiasm and interestin the Society and the time spent in preparing talks and demonstrations for us.

R. G. TURNER.

RAILWAY CLUB.The meetings this term have been somewhat few and far between, but theclub continues to operate although attendances have been rather poor. Severalillustrated lectures have been given—" Railway Photography during theHolidays," with examples taken by members ; " Locomotive Developmentand Design—L. & N.W.R.," given by Mr. Horn and M. A. Smith. Pro-grammes for future meetings include lectures on L.M.S.R. locomotives andthe Midland Railway, and also some British Railways film shows. As usual,it is hoped that the club will visit the Manchester Model Railway Society'sExhibition again this Christmas.

R. G. TURNER.

" EVERYMAN."In many ways the play this year was one of the Dramatic Society's greatestachievements. Certainly they started with fewer advantages than usual, for in"Everyman" we have the very bare bones of drama without complexity of plot,subtlety of character or even the graces of verse ; yet what might have been

Page Nineteen

drearily painful was in fact moving and beautiful, with an exalted solemnitywhich only emerges when the play is well acted. It seemed that in some way theheart of this old dead morality was made to beat again by the sincerity and deepfeeling shown in its presentation. The exquisite blending of music, lighting andmovement softened its starkness just as the sympathetic speaking of the linesbrought out unsuspected cadences in the unmelodious versification. In the sameway the rigid simplicity of the single scene was imaginatively relieved by theskilful use of lateral alcoves which also served the practical purpose of extendingthe stage space. Mr. Stanley as designer of the setting and his many helpersin the making of it (including Mrs. L. Backhouse and Mr. Bromley) are to bewarmly congratulated. Recognition should here too be made of the good workdone by the devoted band of toilers in charge of off-stage activities who wereindispensable though unseen.Brunt as Everyman had a most difficult task but he gave a magnificent per-formance in spite of all obstacles—long repetitive speeches and a series ofsituations in which suffering finds no emergence in action. He put into the partall the variety of which it was capable in its successive moods of panic, despair,awe and serenity. He was at his best towards the end of the play where a falsenote would have been disastrous. The pure joy of the shriven soul and theveneration of holy mysteries required the most delicate interpretation.He was well supported by the rest of the cast and in every case they becamemore than personified abstractions. Fellowship (Grainger) produced the rightadmixture of verve and hollowness but with some exaggeration in play offeatures. This was outweighed by the fitting heartiness of gesture and voice.Good Deeds (Brooks) made an appealing and graceful picture—of which factshe seemed on occasion complacently conscious—whilst Mantell brought to thepart of Knowledge a gentle benignity which pervaded the whole scene. Hisstage presence was remarkable whether in action or repose. Death (Johnson)was impressively menacing and terrible and even in lengthy dialogue lost nothingof this effect. Brierley as Goods gave to a somewhat dull character real per-sonality with an undisguised and almost rollicking malevolence. He provided agood example of the shattering effect of sudden laughter, and the Revellersanother. Five Wits (Wiseman) was particularly fine in his exposition of thefunction of priesthood, and Discretion (Sheldon) had a clarity of tone whichwas the more pleasing because the deeper mellower voices were lacking thisyear ; perhaps this was inevitable in a smaller cast.The women characters were all a delight to see in their elaborate medievaldresses of silk and brocade. Umbers, as Everyman's wife, rivalled Beauty her-self (Brown) and Duckworth and Butterfield made two charming children.But the keynote of the production was reverence—struck in the opening wordsbeautifully spoken by Moth as the Messenger, heard in the voice of Adonai, andrepeated again and again until Everyman reaches the end of his journey and theDoctor delivers his solemn epilogue. In the intimate atmosphere of our impro-vised theatre this reverence was communicated to the audience who were held,still and silent, for one and a half hours without a break. Mr. and Mrs. A.Johnston, with so many successes to their credit, should be gratified to knowthat their production of a play some five hundred years old and written in thestrange English of that period could call forth such a response.

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP GROUP.

" Whatsoever things are of good reportthink on these things."

—Phil. IV. 8.

The Group has continued to flourish during the term, and the losses sustainedby members leaving last term have been amply replaced by new Sixth Formers.Many addresses and discussions of great interest have taken place, including" Religion through the Ages," " Christianity and Communism," " Repent-ance," " Science and Christianity," " The Commandments," " The Miracles,"" The Parable of the Talents," and " The Parable of the Sower."

Page Twenty

The Group is greatly indebted tp-Messrs. J. G. Gosling and A. P. Smith fordiligent support, Mr. Smith kindly providing musical accompaniment forthe hymns. Other visits from the Staff have been in the persons of Messrs.Granville and Roberts, who were extremely welcome.

Since the last issue of the " Stopfordian " went to press, several members ofthe Group were entertained by the Manchester Inter-Faculty Christian Unionat the University. This visit proved both interesting and elevating, and it isto be regretted that examinations prevented a larger attendance.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity of wishing everyone a HappyChristmas, and of expressing the hope that the New Year will see a furtherincrease in our numbers.

A. L. H.

THE MOST FAMOUS LIVING STOPFORDIAN.

Sir Maurice Powicke, M.A., D.Litt., F.B.A., Hon. Fellow of Merton, ofBalliol and of Oriel, formerly Regius Professor of Modern History at Oxfordand President of the Royal Historical Society, and recently described as "thegreatest medieval scholar of the English-speaking world" was elected lastNovember a Foreign Associate of the "Academic des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres." This is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a foreignscholar by the Academic, which itself is the highest expression of Frenchscholarship.

Sir Maurice entered the Grammar School in 1893 and left it for Owen's Collegeand Balliol. From 1920 to 1929 he was a School Governor, representingManchester University, where he was then Professor of Medieval History. Hewas also President of the Old Stopfordians' Association from 1939, its JubileeYear, till 1947.

J. B. HA WORTH, B.Met.

J. B. Haworth, B.Met. (Hons, Sheffield.), Mappin and Nesthill Medallist,Research Metallurgist with Murex Limited, Essex, has been awarded theD.Phil, degree of Oxford University.

TEASING THE NAZIS.

Most schoolboys will be interested in the following leaflet printed by theFrench resistance party during the war. Apparently it is an exhortation inverse to support Hitler, but if folded down the middle each half of the textbecomes a bitter attack on the Nazis and a compliment to Britain. Try itfor yourselves, each half rhymes separately.

Collaboration.Aimons et admirons le Chancelier Hitler.

L'Eternelle Angleterre est indigne de vivre.Maudissons, ecrasons le peuple d'outre-merLe Nazi sur la terre sera seul a survivreSoyons done le soutien du ftihrer allemand.De ces Navigateurs tuons la race mauditeA eux seuls appartient le juste chatimentLa palme des vainqueurs repond au vrai merite.

Page Twenty-one

J. M. JONESElectrical Contractor

. . Specialist in . .

PUBLIC BUILDING

and INDUSTRIAL

INSTALLATIONS

Contractor to the Ministry of Works

and Other Government Departments

Wellington Road SouthTel. STOckport 4853

Private Address:

GLENHOLME ROAD, BRAMHALL - - Tel. 694

Page Twenty-Two

550 SQUADRON A.T.C.Despite the fact that the Winter Term is notoriously a difficult one for theSchool A.T.C., owing to the loss of our keenest members at the end of theprevious term, the squadron has pursued its activities with the utmost vigour.Three of our members who left the squadron in July, Sergeants Holden andPaine, and Cadet Fisher, are now serving with the Royal Air Force. SergeantHolden and Cadet Fisher are undergoing training as pilots. We wish themall the best of luck in their new environment and hope that their experiencein A.T.C. will help them in their new life. Our best wishes also go to Flight-Sergeant Turner who left us to take up teaching in Macclesfield.As was mentioned in last term's A.T.C. Notes, the 1951 Summer TrainingCamp was held at R.A.F. Station Stranraer, in Wigtownshire, Scotland. Des-pite the fact that there was no flying at Stranraer, a very interesting time washad by all. The cadets were given the chance of using a .22 rifle on thestation's range. Very interesting trips were arranged by the station authorities.The first was round the lighthouse at Killintringan on the beautiful Wigtown-shire coast, the other to Portpatrick, a small fishing village, where most of thecadets enjoyed bathing in very lovely surroundings. On another occasion thesquadron visited R.A.F. West Freugh, where the workings of a typical WeatherReporting station were seen. During our visit to Stranraer, the station had itsannual inspection by the A.O.C. Maintenance Command, Air-Vice-MarshallWhite. We were all very impressed by the smartness of the airmen, many ofthem National Servicemen.During the summer holidays, three cadets of the squadron, Fisher, Eyre, andCheadle attended a Cricket Week at R.A.F., Cullaton Cross, where aboutthirty cadets from the whole of England gathered for the selection of elevencadets to receive the National A.T.C. Cricket Blue. Cadet Cheadle broughtgreat credit to himself and to the squadron by being awarded his " Blue."We offer him our heartiest congratulations.During the summer holidays and at week-ends during the term, Flight-SergeantMantell and Sergeant Hammond have continued their flying training with theLancashire Aero Club under the Flying Scholarship scheme. Although theweather is proving more difficult than expected, they have hopes of obtainingtheir Private Pilot's licences before Christmas.

The parades this term have been very well attended ; five cadets have gainedBasic Training Certificates ; they are Cadets Harrison, Knight, CheadleGregory and Brandt, who are promoted to First Class Cadets. In addition,two cadets have been awarded the Proficiency Certificate ; they are CorporalNelson and Cadet Turner. The squadron is short of Leading Cadets atpresent and it is hoped that more will shortly take the examination.There was flying at Ringway for twenty cadets on Sunday, September 9th,and many cadets experienced their first flight. Corporals Nelson and Cress-well were fortunate to be allowed to go on a navigation training flight and theywere able to navigate their Anson as far as Stoke-on-Trent and back to Ring-way by way of Derby.On Sunday, November 4th, a small party of cadets from the squadron attendeda Ground Training Course, held at R.A.F., Wilmslow. The cadets weregiven instruction in the use of the .303 rifle.The future plans of the squadron include the annual dance, which will be heldin the Hallarn Hall on the 22nd February. It is hoped that work will com-mence soon on the converting of the loft of the coach-house into a clubroomfor the squadron, an amenity long overdue.Before the end of the term it is hoped to arrange a visit to A. V. Roe's factoryat Woodford, a trip which all interested in aviation should enjoy.The successful operation of a squadron of this type depends upon a steadyflow of keen recruits into the ranks. I know that all boys of the school whohave given thought to the period of National Service wpl realize that it is onlytoo easy to allow it to become a waste of time. By joining a voluntary cadetcorps such as .the A.T.C., a boy may prepare himself for his term of service

Page Twenty-three

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Imperial Almonds

Mint Wafers

Mint Imperials

Dessert Fruit Pastilles

Mixed Fruit Jellies

Lime Fruit Jellies

Special Wine Gums

Jelly Beans

Superior Dolly Mixture

Jap DessertChoc. Lentils

San Toy Mixture

M A D E B Y J O H N H O R N (Stockport) L T D

Page Twenty-four

life so as to get the most out of it. All boys of the School over fourteen yearsold are welcome as recruits and are assured of a useful training and an in-teresting time.

During the term the squadron has been fortunate to have the support of two" civilian instructors." Mr. Granville, a former Lieutenant in the NinthGurkha Rifles, has very kindly given up his time in order to instruct thesquadron in the use of the rifle. Mr. Hankinson has returned to the squadronand is a great help to cadets wishing to learn morse. To both, we extend ourthanks and hope that they will continue to support the squadron. Their helpis invaluable.

None can remain in the squadron for long without becoming increasinglyaware of the untiring efforts of our officers. Flight-Lieutenant Smith as ourCommanding Officer, assisted by Flying Officer Beckwith, have this termdone their work in their usual highly efficient manner. All cadets will joinwith me in expressing thanks to them both.

The N.C.O's for the term have been, Flight-Sergeant Mantell, SergeantHammond, Corporals Nelson and Creswell.

M. K. M.

WILLIAM HALLIDAY HARDIE.

1909—1951.

It is a long time ago, that January of 1933, when all our little world seemedyoung and gay, and when W. H. Hardie, straight from Exeter College, Oxford,,and courses in Modern History and Education, started his career as a school-master by joining the Staff of Stockport Grammar School. He was appointedto take paternal charge of the well-being of Form IB, who then seemed in soreneed of such attention, and he taught them most of the subjects of theircurriculum. That was in the days of many pleasant innovations, including anorganised and full-scale attack on the weeds which were beginning to disfigurethe School field. From time to time, when the weather was inviting, the wholeSchool was turned out on to the field for the last period in the morning, eachForm was allotted an area, and, with knives and gardening forks and manystrange home-made implements, dandelions and plantains and daisies wereuprooted from the resisting soil and gathered in ever-growing heaps, each Formstriving to outdo its neighbours in this novel type of harvesting. But onesunny morning of high summer, when all was cheerful and work was progressingapace, IB's pile of weeds seemed to be growing with surprising slowness, quiteout of keeping with the efforts expended. The reason was not at first detected,but later it was noticed that the small boys were from time to time makingjourneys to a protected corner of their allotment, and investigation revealed analmost completed inscription, standing up clearly in lines of daisy-roots on theshort grass. " We like our form-master," it read. That simple, but sincere,under-statement was IB's opinion in the summer of 1933. Later generationsof schoolboys have been more sophisticated and reticent, but I think every Formthat Mr. Hardie has since taken, from the Firsts to the Sixths, would in theirhearts have paid him the same tribute of affection and admiration.

Nearly nineteen years have passed. First came a period of great activity andgaiety, of splendour and colour, the 1935 Jubilee, then 1937, with the Coronationand the celebrations of the 450th anniversary of the foundation of the Schoolwhich had just been received into the honoured ranks of the Public Schools,then the more grim excitement of 1938 and 1939. During these years, by hisgeneral efficiency, his activity and his public spirit, Mr. Hardie made for himselfa personal and secure position in the life of the School. He associated himselfwith almost everything that went on. He sang in the Choir, he played therecorder in Mr. Gilkes's little band, he helped, behind the scenes, in theDramatics, he attended the stylish pre-war School dances, he was very active in

Page Twenty-five

Games and Sports, he exalted School Fives into an official School game, heinstituted the Swimming Gala, also in 1937, he was a conspicuous figure onthe Cricket field in his Exeter blazer, and, last but not least, he brought out thecamera which was to play such an important part in School life after the war.

Then came 1939, and later 1940 and the Home Guard. January, 1941, foundhim fire-watching with other members of the Staff and teams of boys, andpatiently awaiting his own call-up into the Forces. On August 30th he leftStockport to take up a commission in the Administrative Branch of the R.A.F.,and when Christmas came he was well on his way on the long voyage round theCape of Good Hope, to join up with the Eighth Army in Egypt in January,1942. El Alamein was the signal for the start of his long trek behind thefighting line in a R.A.F. lorry across the desert wastes of North Africa toTunisia and victory. From here, after some months as instructor at the CypherSchool, he followed the Eighth Army to Italy, and spent a bitterly cold and wetwinter in a tent on the hills of that other land of legend which he ceased thence-forth to regard as an attractive holiday resort. And when the war in Europe wasfully over and our troops began to be withdrawn, he returned to England, andin January, 1946, the Flight-Lieutenant who had travelled more than half-wayround the world and had taken part in one of the great exploits of history,returned to the monotony and the narrow confines of the classroom.

In the years that followed, Mr. Hardie rose to his full stature in the School heloved. All his powers had greatly matured, and he devoted them all to his work.In everything he took an interest and everything was thoroughly well done. Notrouble was too great for him. His camera was constantly at work, and hespent countless hours printing off many thousands of photographs for boys andmasters. Any undertaking for which he accepted responsibility was perfectlyorganised. The smooth change over from Association Football to Rugby waslargely due to his untiring work, in the holidays as much as in term time.Swimming, too, received, from him another great push forward. But amid allthese activities he never lost his quiet personal charm. Some boys will remem-ber him as a camper. What a fine camper he made, in the wettest weather, andwhat strange confidence his mere presence created in everyone, this man ofdeeds rather than words. His great ability was quickly recognised by theSchool authorities, and he was marked down for the highest honours.

But he exhausted his strength and gave a chance to the dread disease which waslying dormant in him, a disease contracted without a doubt in the often un-healthy conditions of his war service in semi-tropical climes. He left us inJuly, 1950. Of the twelve months spent in a sanatorium, months of alternatinghope and despair, we should not like to think but for the stubborn' courage hedisplayed until his heart broke.

" We like our form-master." Why ? I ask myself, and I think I could supplymany reasons. His personal dignity, his physique, his high standards of personalconduct, his powers of discipline and leadership, these could not fail to inspirethe highest admiration. But affection ? That is something more subtle. Hissound common-sense, his dislike of pretence and insincerity which made himat times stern, were always accompanied by sympathy where it was deserved,by patience and fairness, by an equable disposition, and by a real affection forhis boys. He loved their companionship, he appreciated their humour and inreturn could be humorous himself, he would go out of his way to help themand to make them happy, and he knew them well as individuals. No wonderthe love his colleagues had for him was shared by his pupils.

Someone of foreign extraction who knew him well said quite recently : " Inmy memory he will always live as the finest embodiment of truly British qualitiesthat I have ever met." What other statement could have summed up betterthe character of W. H. Hardie ?

" I thank my God upon every remembrance of you."

Page Twenty-six

SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE AND DEDICATION OF THE WARMEMORIAL, NOVEMBER 12th, 1951.

The School's Service of Remembrance, held annually on or near ArmisticeDay, is always simple, dignified and deeply impressive, but this year it wasendowed with special significance in that it was combined with the dedicationof the new Memorial Organ, erected to commemorate for ever the sacrifices ofone hundred and twelve Old Stopfordians who gave their lives on behalf offreedom in the two World Wars. The Hallam Hall was filled with relativesof the fallen, Old Stopfordians, Governors, teaching staff and present boysof the School.After opening prayers, the lesson from the 15th Chapter of St. John wasread by F. Towns, Esq., a Governor and President of the Old Stopfordians'Association. Another prayer, and J. P. Davie, Esq., ex-President of theAssociation, unveiled a bronze plaque, placed on the oak panelling beneath,the organ, bearing these words :

1914-1918 — 1939-1945. This Organ is Dedicated to the Memoryof the Old Boys of this School who Lost their Lives in the Two WorldWars. It was given by the Old Boys, Parents and Friends of the School,and incorporates a previous Organ Gift in 1937 by the Old Stopfordians'Association and Thomas Hidderley, Henry Bell and Peter Peirce toCommemorate the 45Qth Anniversary of the School.

The Organ was then dedicated by the Lord Bishop of Stockport, the Rt. Rev.D. H. Saunders-Davies, M.A. The laying of the poppy-wreath, performedby Prefects Atkinson and Day, was followed by the two minutes silence, afterwhich the whole congregation sang " For All the Saints," to the accompani-ment of the new organ, the first instance of its being used. The NationalAnthem and a blessing concluded the ceremony, but many visitors lingeredawhile to re-read the dedication tablet and to admire the beautiful instrumentwhich worthily enshrines such glorious and tragic memories.

THE MEMORIAL ORGAN.

This magnificent instrument, dedicated as described elsewhere in this issue bythe Bishop of Stockport on November 12th, was built by Messrs. Rushworthand Dreaper, of Liverpool, at a cost of £6,800. Whilst its main purpose is tocommemorate in all humility the 112 sons of the School who have made thesupreme sacrifice in two world wars, it will be used also to accompany thesinging at the religious services held in the Hallam Hall and to teach organmusic in the School. It is a three manual organ, designed in consultation withMr. G. C. Verney and Mr. D. I. Steele. The Great and Pedal Organs occupythe centre recess of the south wall of the Hallam Hall, whilst the Choir andSwell Organs occupy rooms respectively to the left and right of the recess,partly visible through ornamental grilles of dark stained oak. These grilles,,together with the oak casework and Console screen were executed to the designof the organbuilders by Mr. E. Bromley and Mr. E. Abberley. The detachedConsole occupies the middle bay overlooking the Hall on the west side, and themechanism is electric.For purposes of record the specification of the organ is here appended.Compass of Manuals CC to C, 61 Notes ; Compass of Pedals CCC to G, 32Notes.

PEDAL ORGAN1. Sub Bass 32ft. 7. Bass Flute (ext. of No. 4) 8ft.2. Open Diapason . . . . 16ft. 8. Octave Flute (ext. of No. 4) 4ft.3. Violone (from No. 23).. 16ft. 9. Trombone (ext. of No. 22) 16ft.4. Bourdon 16 ft. 10. Trumpet (from No. 40) 16 ft.5. Salicional (from No. 13) 16ft. 11. Tromba (from No. 31).. 8ft.6. Octave (ext. of No. 2) .. 8 ft. 12. Clarion (from No. 31) .. 4 ft.

i. Choir to Pedal. ii. Great to Pedal. iii. Swell to Pedal.

Page Twenty-seven

CHOIR ORGAN.The stops are derived from the following basic ranks :

Salicional, 85 pipes. Lieblich Gedeckt, 85 pipes. Clarinet, 61 pipes.13. Contra Salicional.. .. 16 ft. 17. Salicet 4 ft.14. Open Diapason (from 18. Lieblich Flote .. .. 4 ft.

No. 25) 8 ft. 19. Nazard 2| ft.15. Lieblich Gedeckt . . . . 8 ft. 20. Lieblich Piccolo .. .. 2 ft.16. Salicional 8ft. 21. Clarinet 8ft.

iv. Tremulant.22. Tromba (from No. 31) 8 ft.

v. Swell to Choir. vi. Tromba Sub Octave. vii. Tromba Octave.

GREAT ORGAN.23. Contra Gamba .. .. 16 ft. 28. Octave 4 ft.24. Open Diapason I .. 8 ft. 29. Twelfth 2f ft.25. Open Diapason II .. 8 ft. 30. Fifteenth 2 ft.26. Dolce 8ft. 31. Tromba 8ft.27. Hohl Flote 8 ft.

viii. Choir to Great. ix. Swell to Great.

SWELL ORGAN.32. Geigen Diapason .. .. 8 ft. 36. Octave Geigen .. .. 4 ft.33. Cor de Nuit 8 ft. 37. Fifteenth 2 ft.34. Viole 8 ft. 38. Mixture 15, 19, 22, III Ranks35. Voix Celestes . . . . 8 ft. 39. Oboe 8 ft.

x. Tremulant,xi. Sub Octave

xii. Octave Acting also through Unison Couplers.xiii. Unison Off

40. Double Trumpet .. .. 16 ft. 42. Clarion (ext. of No. 41).. 4 ft.41. Trumpet (ext. of No. 40) 8ft.

ACCESSORIES.4 Thumb Pistons to Choir Organ. 4 Thumb Pistons to Great Organ.5 Thumb Pistons to Swell Organ. 1 Thumb Piston Reversible for " Swellto Great " Coupler. 1 Thumb Piston Reversible for " Great to Pedal "Coupler. 1 Thumb Piston " General Cancel." 1 Thumb Piston Reversiblefor Pedal Trombone.4 Toe Pistons to Pedal Organ. 5 Toe Pistons to Swell Organ, duplicatingThumb Pistons. 1 Toe Piston Reversible for " Swell to Great" Coupler.1 Toe Piston Reversible for " Great to Pedal" Coupler.Drawstop connection Great and Pedal Pistons. Balanced Expression Pedal toSwell Organ. Balanced Expression Pedal to Choir Organ.Switch device for limiting specification to be used by pupils.Total number of pipes : 1,583.

* * *The dedication was followed by four Inaugural Recitals by the following eminentorganists and choirmasters :Monday, November 12th.—J. R. Middleton, Mus.Doc., F.R.C.O., Organist of

Chester Cathedral.Tuesday, November 13th.—W. Hardwick, F.R.C.O., L.R.A.M., of St. Ann's

Church, Manchester.Wednesday, November 14th.—C. L. West, Mus.Doc., F.R.C.O., of the

Collegiate Church, Tattenhall.Friday, November 16th.—H. Dawber, F.R.C.O., F.R.M.C.M., of St. George's

Church, Stockport.

Page Twenty-eight

SHORT STORY BY A FOURTEEN-YEAR-OLD.

"DON'T FENCE ME IN."

The two crooks were busy. By the light of the moon which shone throughthe open window they worked, one manipulating the combination lock of thesafe while the other listened for sounds of discovery.

" I think it's comin', Jake/' growled the kneeling figure with his ear to aninstrument attached to the safe by a suction disc—" Ah, yes ! It'll be openin a few minutes ! "

" Well, 'uny up, for Pete's sake—we might be collared at any minute,"whispered back his companion, and stopped as a sigh of satisfaction camefrom the intent cracksman by the safe.

" Have you done it ? " exclaimed Jake excitedly, and, as the other noddedassent, he went on—" Then get the jewel, you mug, quickly, and let's scram."

The kneeling man straightened up slowly, and as the light of the moon caughthis figure, the long, red scar across his forehead stood out vividly and themagnificent ruby in the palm of his hand winked, and glittered with red fire.

" Boy—Oh, boy ! The Carstairs Ruby—what a smasher," whispered Jake,entranced and awed at the spectacle. " But, come on, let's vamoose," he said,coming back to earth. " Go on—through the window and down the drain-pipe." And as his fellow-crook climbed silently through the window, heslowly drew out a cosh from his pocket and hid it behind his back beforefollowing him down the drainpipe.

When they reached the ground they made off across the lawns and climbedover the wall, across the road, and into the woods on the other side. As theyentered the trees Jake slowly raised his arm and brought down the rubbercosh with a vicious thud on his companion's head. With hardly a groan thecracksman fell to the ground and Jake chuckled as he took the fabulous CarstairsRuby from out of the unconscious man's pocket.

The next morning every newspaper in the country had its front page filledwith the news that Colonel Carstairs' house had been broken into, and thatthe famous, outsize Carstairs Ruby had been stolen. It was the sensationnot only of that day but also of the weeks and months following, for no newsof the ruby could be discovered, and the whole affair remained a mystery.

Five years later a man walked into a rather dingy shop in the West End. Itwas Jake. Because of the commotion which had followed the robbery, Jakehad had to wait until now, when the ruby was not so " hot," before he couldinterest any " fence " in it. He had heard that the proprietor of the establish-ment he was now entering was a very good " fence," who would pay good moneyfor a good thing, and Jake hoped to make a packet when he showed the rubyto him. He walked over to the worm-eaten counter and studied the jeweluntil the proprietor's footsteps sounded on the creaking floor. Jake lookedup—and suddenly became stock still.

The "fence " had a long, ugly red scar right across his forehead.BEP.

Page Twenty-nine

LETTER FROM MICHIGAN STATE COLLEGE.

148 East Shaw Hall,M.S.C.,

East Lansing,Michigan.

The Editor, 8th October, 1951.The "Stopfordian."Dear Sir,Not long ago when I read the "Stopfordian" as a member of school, I alwaysenvied the Old Stopfordians who were able to write from the various universi-ties and report their activities. Reading these letters I had the ambition towrite from some distant place of learning, and to be one of the " farming"Stopfordians. It seems that my wish has been realized, I am working for amaster's degree in agricultural engineering here at Michigan State Collegein the U.S.A.I can't list a number of other Stopfordians who are with me, as I believe thoseother letters used to do, for I am the only British student on campus, whichmeans that I am outnumbered here, 15,000 to 1 by the natives. In spite ofthis rather overwhelming majority I have never been really conscious of it,because I've been made to feel welcome and have been shown real hospitalityright from the start of my stay. Life here is in no single respect greatly diff-erent from that at home (except perhaps dietetically) but the small differenceswhich do exist, dress, customs, accents, to name a few, serve to make the changea very stimulating one. It will perhaps come as a surprise to people at hometo learn that this college, and others of a similar size, have their own radiostations. In addition, Michigan State will soon start broadcasting from itsown T.V. station which was established this year. We have a daily news-paper on campus, and instead of just a football field, a massive stadium whichholds 50,000 spectators. To mention "Football" raises another interestingpoint, imagine the difficulty a foreign visitor has at first in understanding agame in which substitute " Squads " are put in and out of the game. Thissquad system means that there are about 40 men on one side, but only 11 areactually on the field at one time.Even though it is a little difficult to understand these things, and it is hard tohave to ask for a Tom-ay-toe when you really want a tomato, the process(pronounced with a short "o") of learning is very interesting and I am thor-oughly enjoying my stay.During the summer I was fortunate enough to be able to do some travelling:and to visit the west and " Sunny California," to see oranges on trees for thefirst time and, of course, like any other tourist I had to visit the nations'glamour capital, Hollywood ; however, I might say that the oranges gaveme the greater thrill.Finally, can I, through you Mr. Editor, recommend any Stopfordians who arein a position to do some study abroad, particularly post-graduate work, togo ahead and " hit the road," for in addition to the purely academic gainsone may make, the experience of contact with a new point of view I considerto be most valuable. I know that I have benefited from it, and I hope thatmany more Stopfordians will be able to do the same.Carry on the good work with the " Stopfordian," I think your overseas readers;appreciate it even more than those at home. I know I never enjoyed readinga copy more than the one sent out to me in San Francisco.

With best wishes,PETER HEBBLETHWAITE.

Page Thirty

LETTER FROM A NATIONAL SERVICEMAN.

Aldershot, Hants.October, 1951.

To the Editor of the " Stopfordian."Sir,For many years it has been customary for letters to appear in the " Stop-fordian " which have come from undergrads at Oxford, Cambridge and otheruniversities. Yet little or no news appears from where the majority of Stop-fordians find themselves on leaving School—the Army. This silence, Sir,is ominous ; does it mean that from the ranks of the Literary Sixth there isno one who has retained the power of self-expression during his period ofNational Service ? From the terse entries at the rear of the magazines thiswould appear to be the case. Not that this is surprising. During Armytraining at least, one has no time even to realise how life has changed, let aloneto write letters to the " Stopfordian." In the evenings of wasted energy onpointless and never ending 'brassoing' and 'blancoing,' life at School, with itsattendant jolly hours in the reference library or the sacrosanct precincts ofthe Prefects' Room, recedes far into the dimmest recesses of such mind as isleft to the soldier to call his own.Yet if the enquirer can spare an odd moment or two in research work, he willfind that Old Stopfordians in the Army are numerous and, here in Aldershotat least, quite easy to contact. For instance, who would believe that PeterRoyle, whose incredible compositions enlivened many a session of the musicsociety, can still be heard improvising cacophonously on a tea-stained N.A.A.F.I.piano ? It is even rumoured that he brassoes his French horn for C.O's.inspection every week. Gordon Hall, too, has been seen in the terrifyinglyhygienic and ultra-modern foyer of that sole refuge of the weary warrior, theAldershot N.A.A.F.I. club. He is taking an N.C.O's. course in the CateringCorps ; Aldershot Garrison eagerly awaits the culinary revolution Which willundoubtedly follow the acquisition of his first stripe.Among the newer arrivals here have been Geoffrey Booth, who is trying fora commission, Gordon Jeff, who has been seen bending despairingly over anantediluvian army typewriter, and Malcolm Macrae who, after passing throughthe gentle hands of the far-famed R.S.M. Brittain, appears to be well on theway to retiring to the dim recesses of the Pay Corps Offices in Manchesterwith a commission safely in hand. (

The contrast of the Army after school life affords a peculiar shock, with themost humiliating sense of inferiority complex, when one is threatened'witha charge by an N.C.O. who has a standing order for the " Beano," or " RadioFun." On the other hand, it is comforting for those of us who are eventuallybound for the University to find a few sergeants and instructors who are alsoon the way to Oxford or Cambridge. The Army way of doing things canarouse considerable merriment if you can detach yourself from the situationsufficiently to see the funny side of such things as being marched on a Saturdayafternoon to the battalion football ground with the order, " You are here forone purpose and one purpose only—to cheer your team on. On the command' dismiss,' take a square turn to the right and "If this brief communication can stimulate further correspondence from thoseunfortunate Old Stopfordians who are serving King and Country by polishingthe studs on their best boots and sandpapering their clothes brushes, it willhave served its purpose. There must be many interesting tales to tell whichcould ease the strain on an editor \yho no doubt follows the custom of findinghimself lacking in nearly all material for the magazine other than gargantuanvalete notices.

I am, Sir,Yours faithfully,

A NATIONAL SERVICEMAN.

Page Thirty-one

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Page Thirty-two

OLD STOPFORDIANS' ASSOCIATION.

President: Frederick Towns, Esq.

Hon. Secretary : Carl Ransford Gardner, Esq., Coniston, Wellfield Road,Stockport (Stepping Hill 3717).

Hon. Treasurer : J. Stuart Southworth, Esq., Samlesbury, Davenport Park,Stockport (Stepping Hill 3494).

Subscription : 7s. 6d. per annum, or 5 guineas for Life Membership.

* * *

STUDENTS

who have been in for examinations now know their fate and all the work of thepast can now be expressed in the triumph or sadness of the results. Manyof our members have done very well indeed and to them we extend our sincerecongratulations and best wishes for their future. To those boys who areleaving School with or without certificates we also extend our good wishes andcan assure them of a ready welcome into our Association and its affiliatedclubs.

A A *

THE PAST.

Perhaps the most important single event in the past few months has been theacquiring of Christy's Fields in Dialstone Lane, which the Association clubswill sometimes use. These fields, of nine acres, are in a very accessible positionand steps have already been taken to sow and drain them. Fuller detailsappear elsewhere in this issue.

Our sports teams did very well in July and we have every reason to be proud ofour prowess and grateful to our captains, and to take great pleasure in meetingSchool on its own premises in happy competition. For the first time on recordwe won the Fives match, thanks to Ian Campbell and his athletic colleagues,who had taken the precaution of getting a bit of practice before the match.

The Swimming team was a very powerful one, composed of D. Norris (captain),Brian Bennett, Kenneth Armstrong and Peter Rowlinson. They won theirrace against School in handsome style.

The Tennis Team, captained by Arthur Wood also beat School, althoughSchool, in spite of being handicapped by the absence of two of their bestplayers, put up a much better show than usual. We seem to be finding thematch more difficult each year.

The Cricket Match, which was a draw, was chiefly notable for a century,scored against us by B. S. Durose, a feat which we are informed has beenperformed only once before, and that about 30 years ago. Our President hadgreat pleasure in presenting Durose with some golf equipment as a memento.Vernon Parry and Tom Jackson had strong teams for the Relay Race and con-stant practice had almost brought perfection—" almost" because an over-running at the take-over caused the disqualification of our team.

Page Thirty-three

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Page Thirty-four

So taken all in all, these meetings were important social occasions and we hadthe satisfaction of winning 3 out of 5 events. Our thanks and good wishes areoffered to the captains of the School teams.

This year it was decided to omit the Social Evening and hold a Dance onFriday, 28th September. The innovation was very successful and everyonehad a most pleasant evening, very few people leaving before 1 a.m. The M.C.swere R. Philbin and A. Barton who conspired to make the Hon. Secretarysing a romantic duet with a charming young lady. It was all very unfair andyet had its compensations !

The War Memorial Service and Dedication of the Organ on 12th Novemberwill not be forgotten by those present. A full account appears elsewhere inthis Stopfordian.

Our President or Hon. Treasurer wish to thank those who have contributed tothe appeal just issued by the President and to which the response was sogenerous.

OLD STOPFORDIANS LODGE.

If the popularity of a Lodge is reflected by its Ladies' Evening, then that ofthe Old Stopfordians stands high indeed. The evening of October 30thmaintained the high standards one has come to expect of this Lodge.

Mr. Eric Thorniley has now vacated the Master's Chair in favour of Mr. NoelHenshaw, supported by Messrs. F. W. Pritchard and F. Williamson. Thesecretary is Mr. G. B. Pilsbury of Poynton.

THE FUTURE.

Everything has now been arranged for the Annual Ball which will take place atthe Town Hall, Stockport, on Friday, llth January, 1952. No care or expensehas been spared to make the music, decorations, refreshments and generalorganisation absolutely outstanding and we are confident that this Ball will seta new standard. The proceedings will open with a reception by the President,from 8 p.m. to 8.30 p.m., after which dancing will go on until 2 a.m. Theprice of the tickets is 12s. 6d. each, obtainable from the officials of the Club,The Express Office, Advertiser Office, Flemings of Underbank, and Mclntyre'sof Deansgate, Manchester.

At the same time we would like to draw your attention to the AssociationChristmas Cards, showing a tasteful black and white sketch of the School andbearing the coat of arms. They are obtainable now, price 6d. each, from theHon. Secretary and from Messrs. Flemings, Outfitters, Underbank, Stockport.

PERSONAL NEWS.

Roy Stansfield is a Regular Officer in the R.A.F. at present training navigators.This necessitates fairly long flights at times, his most enjoyable being to Malta.We wish him many happy landings.

C. H. Walton is now out of the army, where he held a commission, and hasentered Caius College, Cambridge.

J. V. Sunderland and C. E. Speight have both passed the Final Examination ofthe Institute of Chartered Accountants and are now A.C.A.s, whilst A. G.Tetlow is forging ahead in Medicine at Manchester.

Page Thirty-five

Another member, Arthur Turner, has gone further afield. He is now anengineer with the Queensland State Railways at Brisbane. Turner used to bea stalwart of the Lacrosse Club and he will certainly be missed.

The Royal Air Force seems to be very popular with Old Boys. A. Fisher andPeter Sweaney have just joined and B. E. D. James is serving in Malaya.

Graeme Large, a member of the Lacrosse Club, is at the Officers' TrainingSchool, at Eaton Hall, but like many others, he hopes to be home for the AnnualBall. We wish them every success in their efforts.

May we take this opportunity to ask for Old Boys to let us have more news, bothfrom home, from the Services and from those abroad.

NEW MEMBERS.

The following new members are welcomed into the Association :

Allsopp, J. D. (1946-51), 26 Blount Terrace, Foley Park, Kidderminster.

Bray, D. J. (1943-51), 39 Reddish Vale Road, Stockport.

Bradbury, A. (1940-5), 38 Forbes Road, Offerton, Stockport.

Berry, R. J. (1946-51), 278 Bramhall Lane South, Stockport.

Brimelow, G. R. (1942-50), 151 Woodsmoor Lane, Stockport.

Booth, G. H. (1942-51), 19 Davenport Park, Stockport.

Bowden, P. R. (1946-51), 14 Garners Lane, Stockport.

Burton, R. E. (1945-51), 16 Tower Street, Hyde.

Chambers, J. D. (1946-50), 20 Ramillies Avenue, Cheadle Hulme.

Clarke, J. S. (1942-51), 94 Waterloo Road,' Bramhall.

Cheadle, D. C. (1944-51), 16 Nevill Road, Bramhall.

Dearnley, E. J. (1946-51), 43 Kennerley Road, Stockport.

Durose, B. S. (1943-51), 11 Broomfield Crescent, Stockport.

Fisher, A. (1944-51), 6 Aintree Grove, Stockport.

Gibson, C. H. (1942-51), 9 Dial Park Road, Stockport.

Goalen, H. K. (1944-51), 9 Stockdale Avenue, Stockport.

Hall, D. G. (1945-51), 102 Bramhall Lane, Stockport.

Hebblethwaite, G. (1941-51), 171 Dialstone Lane, Stockport.

Hipwell, G. C. (1939-51), 16 Syddal Road, Bramhall.

(L.M.) Holden, P. D. (1942-51), Tol y llyn, Lostock Hall Road, Poynton.

Huxley, F. R. (1943-51), 11 Elmfield Road, Stockport.

Jeff, G. H. (1941-51), 63 Heaton Moor Road, Stockport.

Leahy, J. R. (1945-50), 33 Valley Road, Bramhall.

Macrae, M. (1941-50), 20 Broadoak Road, Bramhall.

Page Thirty-six

Miller, K. P. (1944-51), Tor Top, Cobden Edge, Mellor.

Newsham, R. (1946-51), 79 Roslyn Road, Adswood, Stockport.

Paine, J. F. C. (1940-51), 7 Kingsway, Bramhall.

Price, D. W. (1941-51), 11 Dial Park Road, Stockport.

(L.M.) Potts, J. W. (1944-51), Eastbourne, Middlewood Road, Higher Poynton.

Richardson, A. T. (1942-51), 1 Barnfield Road East, Davenport, Stockport.

Sweaney, P. D. (1942-9), 16 Coniston Road, Gatley.

Smith, J. B. (1946-51), 83 Stockport Road, Marple.

Taylor, A. (1945-51), 242 Turncroft Lane, Stockport.

Titterton, L. (1931-7), 7 Langford Road, Heaton Chapel, Stockport.

OLD STOPFORDIANS' SUCCESSES.

At Oxford University : J. H. P. Fox, First Class Honours, School of Chemistry.

At Cambridge University : J. N. Brough, B.A., has won the White's Prize forChemistry ; J. B. McC. Wilshaw has proceeded to the M.A. degree.

At Manchester University : E. T. Topham, B.A., Hons. Geog. Cl II, Div. I. ;D. Grime, Final M.B., Ch.B. ; L. V. Parry, Final M.B., Ch.B. ; J. D.Hemsley, Hons. LL.B., Class II ; D. G. MacCrossan, B.A., Hons. Schoolof Architecture ; D. F. Cleaver, B.Sc. ,• P. S. Edwards, B.Sc. ; R. D. Boyle,B.Sc. (Tech.), Div. II ; J. P. Whitehead, B.Sc. (Tech.), Hons. TextileChemistry.

Other Successes.

C. Royle, M.P. for West Salford, has been appointed Opposition Whip.

W. I. Corlett, appointed Assistant Solicitor to the N.W. Electricity Board.

F. M. Smith, Resident Civjl Engineer building the new Gold Coast Universityat Accra.

M. S. Prance has won the Annual Scholarship of the Simon EngineeringGroup, tenable at Manchester University for three years.

A. C. Adam, B.A., Hons. French, Manchester, has been awarded a KemsleyTravelling Fellowship enabling him to study contemporary French Literaturein Paris for twelve months. He has been teaching English and CurrentAffairs at the Army Educational Centre at Hamburg ; Second Lieut., BritishArmy of the Rhine.

G. P. Rye, Borough Librarian and Curator, Weston-super-Mare.

A. G. Tetlow, 1st M.B., Ch.B. (Parts I, II, III), Manchester University.

B. G. D. Welters, of Keble, and A. G. Jackson, of St. Catherine's, representOxford in the University Relay Races.

Page Thirty-seven

39 St. Lesmo Road,

Stockport,

28th November, 1951.

OLD STOPFORDIANS' LACROSSE CLUB.

After our very successful Silver Jubilee year, we approached the presentseason with high hopes that at last we had recovered from the war years andcould make a strong challenge to achieve First Division status. With the"A" team promoted to the Third Division one of the first essentials had beenattained and the influx of new members during the close season was mostencouraging. Yes, for a time it seemed certain that the Second DivisionChampionship and Junior Flags were almost within our grasp.

Before the season started, however, it became obvious that a grim struggle layahead. First came the realisation that many of our new members would be atUniversities and only available for a few games during the Christmas vacation.This was followed by the loss of two key members, Trevor Austin, the "A"team goalkeeper, and R. Handford, the first team centre. The latter positionhas been ably filled by Peter Sexton, but the problem of obtaining an experiencedgoalkeeper for the "A" team is still with us. Let us also admit that theopposition this season has been stronger than we anticipated.

But these disappointments have not dulled our keenness nor lessened ourambitions. The first team, led by Ralph Caville with John Moult as vice-captain, is determined to be amongst the honours at the end of the season,whilst R. Hulme and D. Driscoll, the "A" team captain and vice-captain, arecertain that they will be able, at least, to retain their position in the ThirdDivision. There is tremendous enthusiasm within the club and it is mostgratifying to see the younger players improving week by week. Specialmention should, perhaps, be made of Neville Rodman who has firmly establishedhis place on the first team defence, and Fred BelUngall, who shows promise ofbecoming a first class wing attack. These younger players readily admit thegreat help they have received from older men, notably C. Rakestraw and R.L. Fort on the "A" team and J. P. Bamber, still one of the best " Points " inthe game, and J. G. Gosling on the first team. With a little better attendanceat the gymnasium on Monday evenings and a few more members to completea regular " B " team, the future of the club would be assured. Will any OldBoys who are interested please communicate with me at the earliest possiblemoment ?

DAVID BOYLE,

Hon. Secretary.

Page Thirty-eight

MARRIAGES.

BROWN—BLAIKIE.—On November 17th, 1951, Frank Garner Brown toGloria Blaikie, " Tregenna," Crafthole, Torpoint, Cornwall.

NORRIS—REDFERN.—On 23rd June, 1951, at St. George's Church, byRev. M. F. Wild, Derek, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Norris, of Woodsmoor, toMuriel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Redfern, of Gale Green (Present address :12 Crossfield Grove, Woodsmoor).

OBITUARY.

HELLAWELL.—On 7th April, 1951, at Torquay, Thomas WhiteheadHellawell, of 40 Carrwood Avenue, Bramhall.

C. R. GARDNER.

CALENDAR.1951.

Monday, Dec. 17—Old Stopfordians' Lodge.

Tuesday, Dec. 18—School Carol Service at St. George's Church.Michaelmas Term ends.

Wednesday, Dec. 19—Leavers' Dance, 7.30 p.m.—1 a.m.

1952

Thursday, Jan. 10—Lent Term starts.

Friday, Jan. 11—Old Stopfordians' Ball at Stockport Town Hall,8 p.m.—2 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 21—Old Stopfordians' Lodge.

Monday, Feb. 18—Old Stopfordians' Lodge.

Friday, Feb. 22—A.T.C. Dance, 8 p.m.

Mon.-Wed., Feb. 25-7—Half Term ; including Ash Wednesday.

Monday, . Mar. 17—Old Stopfordians' Lodge.

Wednesday, Mar. 19—-Old Stopfordians' Annual Dinner.

Thursday, Mar. 20—Founders' Day.

Friday, April 4—Lent Term ends.

Monday, April 21—Old Stopfordians' Lodge.

Thursday, April 24—Summer Term Starts.

Page Thirty-nine

Monday, May 19—Old Stoptbrdians" Lodge.

Saturday, May 31—Whitsuntide Holidays begin.

Monday, June 9—Whitsuntide Holidays end.

Wednesday, July 16—Summer Term ends (approx.).

Page Pony

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