How could the weather play such an important part in the enjoyment of a day at West Buckland?

Normally, visitors would be reminiscing that rain and wind was the norm and we just had to ‘get on with it’. Raincoats and warm clothing would be an absolute certainty on a visit to West Buckland, but not on Saturday 21^st June.

For days before, the school had basked in glorious sunshine and Saturday dawned no different. The Parents’ Association event was scheduled to start in the afternoon, but already there was a hive of activity and as the morning progressed, the number of people arriving was most encouraging. Perhaps it was the refreshments available to the cricketers and other old boys who wanted to make the most of the day?

By lunch time, Mike Tucker (73- S) had gathered together a large group of old boys to tour the school. His reputation as a man of detail didn’t disappoint the group meandered through the school grounds relating stories at every corner.

The heat of the day was proving more than a match for some who broke off for a well-earned drink and bite to eat at the PA BBQ. The tour resumed with Chris Ponder (73-11 S) taking the lead visiting many parts of the school that were so unrecognisable to the former pupils. The large dormitories above the Karslake Hall and the House Common Rooms are no more, but the structures are still in place to remind them of days gone by.

By the evening, when many should have been flagging, they were keen for more entertainment as a drinks reception in the 150 theatre, with photographic displays of life in the 1950s and 60s was on show.

Lady Arran joined the 80 or so guests to welcome them back to the school. Some were lucky enough to have their photograph taken with her! The highlight of the day rounded off with a reunion dinner in the Karslake Hall. Eight tables were laid out with table cloths and adorned with flowers – a far cry from the days of prefects ruling the dining hall and handing out what was left to the younger boys.

A feast of three courses was served by the school kitchen with the help of younger alumni to serve. Speeches by Graham Harrison (59-66 C) and the OWBA president, Neil Kingdon (66-75 C) with tales of former masters and school boy antics entertained the party. A wonderful end to a highly successful day.