Guest Speaker: Lt Col Angus Fair DSO* (OP 1983-88)
This was the 93rd Founders Day at the College. The sun shone and the day seemed to go without a hitch.
This year guests included those who left Pangbourne in the 1980’s and 1990’s. This is a rolling programme introduced by Headmaster Thomas Garnier four years ago whereby different specific decade groups would be invited back to the College.
The first official event was the parade. It was the best I have ever witnessed. The band played throughout and the quality of the marching and turnout seemed very impressive. Lt Col Angus Fair DSO* (OP 1983-88) took the salute and was the Guest of Honour. Angus is an active officer in the Army and looked resplendent in his uniform although I would imagine it was designed after a winter military campaign in Eastern Europe and was possibly rather hot in Drake Hall for the College prize giving!
Michael Allsop, Chairman of the Governors, gave the opening speech and particularly complemented the important work of the OP Society and the support OP’s give to the College. Thomas Garnier said the College was performing well and it was pleasing to see the first pupils who started the International Baccalaureate programme graduate. Angus Fair, who spent 10 years with the SAS and commanded operation Panthers Claw in Afghanistan then gave some very moving and humbling stories of bravery, leadership and teamwork to the gathering, many of whom were of a similar age to the heroes in his anecdotes. After his speech he was given a standing ovation. The OP Society gave three important prizes that recognized pupils outstanding hard work and success.
It was very good to see Peter and Margaret Points looking so well amongst all the guests. Coincidentally and rather aptly Angus Fair was Peter Points’ last Chief of College before he retired in 1988.
In the afternoon the OP’s just managed to defeat the College 1st XI cricket team in a 20:20 over contest on Bigside. A very large crowd mingled on the boundary catching up with friends and staff. The College then hosted a large tea party followed by an impressive Beat Retreat.
Mark Dumas (1964-68 Q)