Coleridge Reunion September 15th 2007

A warm and sunny September day saw over 80 Old Blues and their guests join the Coleridge reunion to take a trip down ‘memory lane’ and catch up with old friends. Many had travelled great distances to re visit CH from as far as Australia, Canada and America.

The Reunion was opened by the Head Master, Mr John Franklin, who welcomed Old Blues back to the School, encouraging them to enjoy learning about the life at CH today and to continue to keep up their links with the School. CHA Board member and Almoner, Carol Stevens then took the “roll-call”.

There was plenty of time to chat and mix and mingle as well as study photographs sourced by the CHA office and those attending old friendships and memories were quickly rekindled.

The house parents of Coleridge A and B then took tours around the newly refurbished Coleridge House, which still smelt of fresh paint and new carpets. They were joined by Grecians who could give a first hand account of their boarding life experience.

There was just time for a quick marching practice before going into Chapel. The service led by the Rev Nicola Mitra included a superb solo by Nicholas Pritchard, organ music by Adrian Bawtree and a rousing version of the Foundation Hymn.

It was then time to march into lunch. Despite some apprehensions Coleridge Old Blues were the first to march as the band struck up – perfect timing and a skill unforgotten! After a leisurely lunch there was an opportunity to visit the Museum, Grecians West, Art School, Library, and the newly refurbished Design and Technology Department.

Taking advantage of the autumn sunshine some guests enjoyed watching the Hockey and Rugby matches. (Of course CH’s First 15 were triumphant)

Next came the difficult part after three attempts of getting everyone together, a group photograph was finally taken outside Coleridge followed by a very welcome cup of tea, sandwiches and cakes in dining hall. Addresses and names were exchanged and promises made to keep in contact. All in all it was a great day-the weather was perfect, the atmosphere convivial and many friendships were reformed.

The comments below are some of many received:

Thank you for making us feel so welcome.

Thank you for a marvellous day.

Great day yesterday. Everyone seemed to enjoy the day very much, and, my wife, certainly had a great time.

Thank you for all your organisation and constant work keeping us all on the programme. It is probably slightly worse than trying to herd cats!!

Thank you for organising today's nostalgia-fest. I am sure that we all enjoyed the visit and look forward to a repeat before many of us are too old.

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