I promised that in our 125th anniversary year there would be some special events and they don’t come much better than this year’s Commemoration Weekend.
The Leavers’ Ball, the first ever to be held off campus, was a glamorous affair, judged a huge success by the 250 attendees. The following day was a return to the traditional programme of cricket and other sports fixtures against the College, with an informal BBQ on the Home Ground. Though the weather was a bit unreliable at times the atmosphere was fantastic with over 400 people of all ages filing through the College gates. It was a pleasure to welcome the newest OBs following their emotional graduation ceremony in the Chapel and to welcome so many parents and families.
Commemoration Weekend also saw the official launch of Joyce Heater’s new pictorial history, "Images of England - Brighton College" which has already sold hundreds of copies in aid of the Kingsford Scholarship Fund. I know how much work went into compiling in excess of 200 photographs and writing the accompanying text and believe Joyce can be enormously proud of what she has achieved. It was fitting that every Leaver was presented with a copy at their Graduation.
We have further events planned later this year including the Pioneers’ Luncheon (for the Over 60s and their guests) and the Annual Dinner in the Great Hall (hurry to book as only a limited number of tickets are still available). We also have an exclusive opportunity to attend a Piano Recital by James Adutt (L. 1982-87) in the Burstow Gallery on Sunday 7 October following the College’s Harvest Festival Service. On 11 November the annual Service of Remembrance will take place in the College Chapel to which all OBs are warmly invited. And there will be a London Drinks once again for all those working or living in London.
The Old Brightonians continue to play a significant part in the life of the College and I am greatly encouraged to see so many younger OBs joining those of us from an earlier vintage at our events. Please keep your suggestions and feedback coming.
If you would like to play a greater part in the OBA, whether as a committee member or organising a reunion or event, please drop me a line. I’d be pleased to hear from you.
Enjoy the Summer and I hope to see you at an event soon.
David Gold (S. 1986-91)
OBA President
PS: Thanks to the many Old Brightonians who send me their news, opinions, photos, memories, and yes, their moans and groans! Keep them coming - email me directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
