My personal appologies for the late posting of this sad event.

John Ashurst played an important role in the lives of so many students at the College, both male and female, many of whom possibly would not be where they are today, but for John's influence.

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It is with deep regret that we advise the passing of John Ashurst, former headmaster of Eggars Grammar School, Alton (1958-63), Peter Symonds’ School, Winchester (1963-71) and Hymers College, Hull (1971-83).

John died peacefully on 13th October 2022 aged 99. The funeral was held at St Giles Church, Ashtead, Surrey.

John was Headmaster from April 1963 to August 1971 when Peter Symonds’ was still a grammar school for boys. John’s legacy of improved teaching standards leading to enhanced A and O Level grades and a far higher number of students progressing to university, is one which Peter Symonds’ College is proud to have continued.

Image: John Ashurst at PSC for the official opening of the Ashurst building in 2007.

 

 Hi all ! ... I have had a request from RIC CHEADLE (School House 1962-68) asking if there is anyone who can put him in touch with his best man, KEVIN FROST (Wyke Lodge), as Ric has lost touch over the years and would like Kevin to be at his 50th. Wedding Anniversary ... please e-mail me with any contact details and I will pass them on to Ric ... Thank you ... Doug Clews

 I received today an e-mail from Nigel Parkes (1976 -1979) reading as below: 

(The attached photo appears in the photos section under OTC, JTC, CCF)

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Hello,

You might be interested in the attached photo of the CCF RAF section summer camp at RAF St Athan 1977. I was in the section from 1976 until about 1979.

St Athan had a collection of historic aircraft at the time. Three of us managed to get assigned to the 'museum’ (thus avoiding square bashing etc) and spent the week polishing the inside of various aircraft canopies - which of course involved sitting in the cockpit! Watched over by a kindly old hand of a sergeant who served us chicory coffee, I guess he was glad of the company as no one visited the museum. 

We acquired a sheet of self adhesive orange day-glo plastic and made Penguin stickers (copied from the chocolate bar) in honour of Flt Lt (Pengy) Fletcher - these stickers turned up everywhere. 

Chris and Doug wish everyone a Happy, Safe 2022

 I have received a request from a potential member, Smith B (Bev) 1957 - 1964, for the FULL text of the Founder's Day prayer ... can anyone out there help please ?

Stay safe ... Cheers ... Doug

 A big 'Thank you' to Bernard Webber for sending in a fantastic photo of John Ashurst at the ripe young age of 98 ... 

Mr. Ashurst was Head Master from 1964 to 1971 and will be well remembered by those students under his care.

The photo is posted in the 'Teachers' section in Photos

I am posting a copy of a message I received personally, albeit last december, in the hope that someone might be able to help John ... Hi Doug I'm afraid I'm a total stranger and this is a very long shot. An old friend of mine, Howard Kidd, who is not very PC savvy has asked me if I could try to find a contact for a childhood friend of his, Simon Barrow, who went to Peter Symonds. I see you seem to be still very involved with Peter Symonds and I just wondered is you might be able to help me. All I know is that Simon was in the Upper 6th at Peter Symonds in 1971. If you can help, I'd be most grateful. My name is John Graham-Hart and my email address is johngrahamhart@gmail.com Many thanks John G-H