A
RUTH  AINLEY
(1979-1984)
Recently returned from the US where resided for the past 14 years. Now living in East Yorkshire. Marketing manager for European Division of Kay Chemical. Married to Andy, 3 children (8, 5 and 6 months): Hannah, Luke and May. Looking forward to a reunion of fellow KJS classmates at the 400th anniversary dinner!

B
ROBERT ANTHONY BAILEY
(1950-1955)
Chairman/Treasurer 59 (Huddersfield); Secretary Royal Air Force Association (RADA) Huddersfield; President Huddersfield Commercial Travellers Association (HCTA); Director and Shares Secretary, Marsh United Bowling Club Ltd (MUBC); now semi retired with two children and four grandchildren. Ex committee man for the OAS.

MARGARET  BALLARD
(1976-1981)
Worked in Reading as a computer manager for a small company after leaving Reading University. Now live in Southampton with two young children, Louise (6) and Richard (4) and married (happily) to Steve. Also have one hairy dog Honey. Miss the views and hills of Huddersfield, but enjoy the warmth and sun down here. Have just purchased a yacht, so will probably get cold and wet.

HELEN  BATES
(1990-1995)
Having left KJS in 1995, I attended Greenhead College and then continued my studies at Oxford University, from where I graduated with a Maths degree in 2000. I then moved to London and worked at the Investment Bank, JP Morgan for almost six years, in a trading floor role selling derivatives. During my time at JPM I also met my husband Niall and we were married in Huddersfield in April 2005. In 2006 we both gave up our city jobs and spent six months travelling the world before moving to start a new life in the South of France. We have now lived in Cannes for almost a year, setting up a property rental company. We have bought, renovated and now rent apartments in the centre of the town for holidays and conferences. We have a website at www.chicgites.com. I get back to Huddersfield two or three times a year to follow the fortunes (mis) of ‘Town’ from afar.

BOB LINDSEY BEAUMONT
(1968-1976)
With the big five – oh only 4 months away, life is taking on major shifts for me. After almost 15 years with Kodak, I was recently sold off with the rest of the health group to become Carestream Health in Hemel Hemstead, where I have strategic purchasing responsibility for warehousing and transport across Europe, Africa and Middle East. (That stalwart of the Photographic Society, NK Parsons is still at Kodak) After 10 years with our local youth football club, I have no team to coach next season, but it took only 2 weeks of looking forward to being ‘just a Dad’ to get myself roped into senior club Buntingford Town as vice chairman, where the assistant manager is a former 1st X1 opponent from St. Gregorys, one Tony Galvin, who was also a contemporary of mine at Hull University before his glory with Spurs and Ireland. One constant is home with Hilary, long suffering wife of 26 years and sons, Liam (17) and Jordan (13) in rural mid-Bedfordshire. We have just reached 19 years residence in Clifton (which is not as long as near neighbour, Barry Livesey, who was at KJGS some years before me). The school ’s 400th anniversary coincides with the 40th year since my year group took its first nervous strides down St. Helen ’s Gate. Anyone fancy organizing a reunion? It’s not my turn: D.G.C and I did it 20 years ago!

ROBERT JOHN BEST
(1965-1971)
After leaving school, I went to Sheffield Polytechnic and gained a BA in Public Administration. This led to a career in Housing Management in Sunderland and then NE Derbyshire District Council, where I was head of housing for 20 years. In 1999 I left to join the private sector and am now a Housing and Regeneration Consultant. I left Derbyshire after 28 years to move to Formby on Merseyside before Christmas with my wife Susan. We have two grown up children, Jennifer who has emigrated to New Zealand and Andrew who lives in Manchester. My brother Andrew, four years younger, who also went to KJGS is also married with two grown up children, lives in Bradford and is an Inspector in the West Yorkshire Police. I still keep in touch with Bernie Hoyle, Pete Vickerman and Stu Sykes from school.

NORRIS BONSER
(1947-1954)
Mechanical Engineering degree at Leeds University. Worked at ICI (Huddersfield), David Brown Industries, Stone Platt Industries, Oldham Hansen Transmissions, Kent & Leeds BTR Industries and finally Brook Motors and retired in 1996. Was secretary of the OAS in the early 60s.

GARY DOUGLAS BOOTHROYD
(1961-1968)
Since leaving KJS I trained to become a P.E. teacher at St. Paul’s College, Cheltenham, gaining Honours degree at Bristol University. Taught for 28 years in Birmingham, becoming Head of P.E. faculty at Holle School in Aston. Returned to North Yorkshire in 2000. Took up a writing career and published ‘Are You a Proper Teacher, Sir?’ – memoirs of a P.E. teacher in the inner city. I am working on a novel and a third book, hoping for publication in 2008. Huddersfield Town season ticket holder and member of Bedale Golf Club.

GARY BOOTHROYD 
(1962-1969)
I escaped a trip down the Bunk on Day 1 of my school career when the approaching 2nd formers discovered that I had the same name as one of their classmates (G Douglas Boothroyd, also on this page) and took me to meet him. Progressed through to Transitus Science, and finally gained 'A' levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Followed that with a 2.1 degree in Biological Chemistry at Manchester University, marrying an ex-Greenhead girl, Theresa, just 3 months before my finals. Spent a year at Hollybank College of Education to gain a Cert. Ed. (Tech), then like my namesake became a teacher, this time in Biology and Chemistry - making good use of Jack Taylor's organisational skills and Dave Bush's classroom management. Moved to Rutland for my first job in a Sixth Form College where I gained experience and two children, Lynda and Philip. From 1980 I worked at Stamford College of Further Education, and over the following 30 years I divorced, married Mary (Mrs B Mk II), became Deputy Head of Department, Head of Science, and finally Head of 'A' levels. In 2001, I took advantage of a period of convalescence with a broken back to engineer a demotion to being a plain classroom teacher again, my primary vocation. Retired in 2011, and instead of being a teacher who cycles I am now a cyclist who occasionally teaches, or at least tutors, when needed. Useless at sport at school, I grew into a reasonable club runner, keen orienteer (thanks Fred Hudson for the map-reading skills) and a passionate cycle-tourist. In March 2021 I passed the 250,000 mile mark on my running total on a bike and I am still counting.

MICHAEL  BORYSLAWSKYJ
(1963-1969)
Left school in 1969 and went to work at the then College of Technology on Queensgate (subsequently the University of Huddersfield). Employed as a technician in the Dept. of Chemistry. Studied for a degree in Biochemistry with Clinical Chemistry. Promoted through Senior Technician, Chief Technician through to Superintendent of Labratories. Studied for a PhD in Biochemistry, which I obtained in 1991. I then studied for the Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety and was appointed as the University Health & Safety Advisor. In 1996 I was appointed as the head of the office of Health & Safety and Occupational Health and a member of the senior staff of the University. I took early retirement for the University in 2005 at the age of 52. Now an independent consultant, married to Bernadette for 32 years with two daughters in their 20s. Hobbies include motorhomes and photography. Currently chairman of the local camping and caravanning club.

DAVID BRADLEY
(1946-1952)
I trained in the electricity supply industry, taking the part-time route to professional qualifications as an engineer. Apart from two years in the Royal Air Force, I worked for the whole of my career in electricity generation. Having been drawn into the Scout movement I worked for some years with young people and then became as Assistant County Commissioner training adults for 18 years. I am retired now, with a wife, two daughters and five grandchildren. There is still time for a few voluntary jobs though!

REGGIE BYRAM
(1946-1954)
I entered the school after the war and made friendships that endure to this day.
After school, I served two years of National Service, as a non-combatant. Then, being idealistic, I trained as a nurse at Storthes Hall Hospital, Kirkburton. After six years, which I enjoyed, I turned to education. I qualified as a teacher and taught for five years in FE in Leeds. In 1970 I applied to the Ministry of Overseas Development and was sent to Zambia. I worked as HOD English in a secondary school and in teacher training. Toward the end of my six years in Zambia, I married Hope, and we have enjoyed a wonderful marriage. In 1977, again through the Ministry of Overseas Development, we went to Botswana., and stayed for twelve years. On our return, I worked as a lecturer at Bolton University (then an Institute), teaching English to foreign and Commonwealth students studying for the Master's degree. I have had published many textbooks - for Anglophone Africa, Turkey and China - and novels (the latter usually under pseudonyms) from Macmillan, Pearson International imprints, Continuum and   Profile Books. My best-selling novel has been Dead Men Don't Talk by John Tembo from Pearson/Heinemann. If you want to sell in Africa, you need an African pseudonym. My wife and I still live in Huddersfield. We have three adult children who are all doing well in their chosen professions.

PETER  CARTER
(1963-1970)
Graduated university College London, 1973-LLB, called to Bar 1974, Queen’s Counsel 1995. Practice from 18 Red Lion Court, London. Chairman of Bar Human Rights committee 2003-2005.

C
DAVID IAN CHAPPELL
(1934-1939)
Have worked for Midland Bank (now HSBC) for 35 years, with an interlude on army service from 1941-1946, serving with The Royal Deccan House, Indian Army for three years in India and Burma. Past member of Headingley, Leeds and Wakefield Golf Club, an active walker and bird watcher. Have now retired with my wife to the RMBJ Home at Connaught Court, York.

PETER  CLARKE
(1948-1956)
Since my last contact with the OAS, when I was one of the ‘class of 1948’ who attended the 1998 dinner, I have had no direct contact with Huddersfield. Our family are now living across the UK, Margaret and I have been living in the Isle of Man since 1997. We moved there after I took early retirement from my job as Principal of Harrogate College. Since then I have developed another ’career’ as a management consultant with clients in the Isle of Man, North West England and The Channel Islands. I keep saying each year that I will retire, but never actually do anything about it. However, the fact that I have just reached 70 and have bought a 2nd home in France might prove to be a catalyst! I received letters from John Dyson and John Earnshaw (members of the 1948 brigade) following my 70th birthday and hope to meet up with them and other friends from the past at the 2008 dinner.

JOHN VICTOR COLLIER
(1957-1963)
On leaving school in July 1963 I immediately went to work for a firm of chartered accountants in Huddersfield. In the September I went to Huddersfield Tech to enrol for ‘A’ level English and found the tutor to be none other that the renowned Jock Anderson. In 1967 I joined the civil service. My ‘postings’ included a spell at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, where I came into contact with David Morphet, who had been head boy at KJGS during my first year. Apart from a 7 year spell of self employment I have been in the civil service ever since and now work for HM Revenue & Customs. I continue to support, remotely but passionately, Huddersfield Town. I enjoy most kinds of music, play the piano and am currently Chair of Charlton Male Voice Choir in Nottingham. I have three married daughters, three grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. I am married for the second time and my wife has a son and a daughter.

SCOTT  COSSEY
(1983-1987)
Left KJS in 1987 with little but good memories to show for it. Survived in retail for the following years with long breaks in Southern Europe until becoming aware of the importance of a sound education. Entered University of Portsmouth through Access (the easy and only option) to complete a Degree in International Trade with Spanish and Italian, miraculously finishing with an Upper Second! Still not sure what to do in life, I spent two years living out of a rucksack travelling the world, then decided that a return to the States would be the best option. I spent the next five years in Miami, South Florida where I dabbled in finance and finished as a teacher of Spanish at Stranahan High , an inner-city school in Fort Lauderdale. Met my wife and started a family (daughter Mia).  Returned to Huddersfield to train at Castle Hall, Mirfield to become qualified Language teacher. For the last three years I have been working as a Spanish/Italian/French teacher at Hornsea Language College. Still enjoy a spot of fishing, playing the guitar and nice long breaks in Spain.

DAVID GARY CROFT
(1968-1975)
Past Chairman of OAS on two separate occasions.
Head of survey department and director of Boultons Estate Agents.
Director and joint owner of Thorpe House Nursing Home, Almondbury.
Trustee of KJS Foundation (only recently!)
One daughter currently at the school (Year 7)
Two daughters are past pupils, Bethany is now doing a BSC in Psychiatric Nursing at Manchester University and Lucinda is reading Maths at York University.

D
GEOFFREY  DARBY
(1937-1943)
I left AGS in July 1943 and on August 12th started a new life as an apprentice with Huddersfield Corporation Waterworks Dept. I intended to become a civil engineer as Huddersfield corporation intended to design and build Digley Reservoir with direct labour.
I was based at Blackmoorfoot Reservoir, but by the summer of 1944 I was working with the Government, surveying and checking the construction of anti dive bomb nets around the reservoir. We had intended the ‘bouncing bomb’ to attack the German dams and had to prepare for retaliation. It was a good day to eventually watch a Lancaster Bomber check our work and give us the ‘thumbs up’. Then my call up papers arrived, conscripted as a bevin boy to work in the coal mines – demob No. 64. So December 1944 to January 1948 saw me at the coal face at Lepton Edge Colliery. After being keen on football in the AGS 1st Eleven, I had permission to work Friday day shift and go back in Friday night shift to have Saturday off for footballing. I trained with Huddersfield Town AFC but on May 14th 1947 I broke my leg playing and the Huddersfield Town trainer Bill Bott said I was slowing down going into a tackle, so I had to find another sport! Table tennis - private lessons in Leeds - up and down the country for competitions and reserve for Yorkshire. In 1948 my demob arrived – Digley Reservoir was going to a private company. So I moved to the electrical department and took higher national certificate and many endorsements for the institution of electrical engineers and my chartered engineer status. I then worked in Leeds for the Generating Board in the technical/protective gear/commissioning department and studied nuclear engineering at Leeds & Bradford – moved to Nottingham for commissioning tests on Willington & High Marnham Power Stations. Then followed a three year period at Harwell Nuclear Research and Dungeness ‘A’ Nuclear Power Station. Founder member of the British Nuclear Engineering Society. Finally I moved to Guildford in Surrey for the engineering projects required with the new 400kv transmission system. I retired in 1987 and moved back to ‘Yorkshire Roots’ with my wife Jean who I married in 1958. At Guildford I was sent on a three year management diploma course and became an active member of the British Institute of Management. This helped me to become chair for seven years of Bisley Parish Council, Chair of Surrey County Association and sit on the National Executive committee and the S.E. & London Sports Council under Roger Bannister. A relaxing part of all this work was for my wife and I to attend three Buckingham Palace Garden Parties and have a talk to some of our Royal Family.

GARETH LYNN DAVIES
(1954-1956)
Since leaving Almondbury I was educated in South Wales and Warwickshire, then Trinity College Cambridgeshire. I trained as a language teacher at Leeds University and taught French, Russian, German and Spanish in various secondary schools. At present I am tutoring adults in Welsh at a language centre and contemplating retirement.


BARRY DE BOER
(1953-1961)
BSc in Zoology at Sheffield University­­. Went into IT Project Management roles across Europe. Wrote book Project Skills  (Amazon). Formed own consultancy company in 2002.

KIM CHRISTOPHER DYSON
(1968-1975)
After early years commuting from Berkhamstead, Herts, to agency jobs around London, broken by a four year spell in Kingsberg, Norway, I moved to the United States in 1994. Now a permanent US resident, living in suburban Houston and working as a Structural and Marine specialist engineer on deep water oil and gas developments, primarily subsea structures. Will be celebrating silver wedding to Susan in July 2007. Daughter Emma, 21, is studying sonography and son Benjamin, 19, is studying pharmacy. I enjoy sailing in Galvestan Bay most weekends and am trying to explore further down the Gulf Coast when time and hurricane seasons allow.

E
DAVID  EARLES
(1947-1952)
In November 1952 joined Martins Bank, Huddersfield. 1954-1956 National Service with RAF active service June 1955/Dec1956 at RAF Butterworth, Malaya. 1957-1966 Re-joined Martins Bank at Huddersfield and nearby branches, qualifying as ACIB. Married Pat Easter (Ex Longley Hall GS and Ex Martins Bank) in 1960. Son Graham born 1965, played soccer for OAS throughout this period. 1966-1993 Transferred to Cheshire, living in Wilmslow 11 years and Marple 17 years. During this period up to retirement, served as bank inspector for Martins Bank and Barclays Bank respectively (merger 1969). Then branch manager at Barclays, Stalybridge, Winsford, Hyde and Altringham branches. 1994 to date following retirement, returned to live in New Mill, Holmfirth. Until 2003 owned a holiday home in Florida, USA.

JOHN  EARNSHAW
(1948-1956)
The OAS Magazine (September - February 2008) is a masterpiece. Hence, public appreciation to Vicky Taylor and all those who are working towards a joyful 400th. What better ‘warm up’ for November, details of an imaginative programme, recognition of The School today, a variety of photographs, a touching tribute to Jessica Taylor and - to remind us of change! - details of www.oas.org.uk (yes, it does merit more than a peep!). When you live over 150 miles away (and some are much further than that), are 70 years beyond birth and over 50 years from KJGS, it would be folly to pretend that one was flavour of the month just for going to Stamford Bridge to bemoan the 1-3 scoreline! However, Andrew Haigh and a team of dedicated committee members, some of whom are also over 70, have ensured that 400 years will not be forgotten by hundreds of former lads who did the daily down & up of St. Helen’s Gate in years gone by. So, to officers, committee members, envelope stuffers et al, thank you. God willing at least one further trip to the old school will be more than worthwhile. I’ll keep taking the tablets and keep fingers crossed!

MARK  EARNSHAW
(1977-1978)
Married to Janet, 2 boys aged 9 and 11. Still playing cricket at Almondbury and badminton for Kirkburton, who are based at the school. Played football for the Almondburians for 25 years, with an odd season break. Working as a sales director of PTS, a large plumbing distributor based in Lutterworth. Job takes me around the country, but still live in Thongsbridge where we have lived for 10 years after making the big move from Almondbury!

DUNCAN  EWART
(2002-2007)
I left school last year and am currently enjoying my free year of OAS membership but would like to continue thereafter. I attended the OAS dinner for the second time in November and had a great night. I am a student at Greenhead College but still feel strong bonds with the school and history and feel the OAS is the best way to keep contact. I hope to be a member for as long as possible. Floreat Schola.

F
FREDERICK WILLIAM FOX
(1936-1941)
1943-1947 Royal Navy, 1947-1951 University of Leeds, 1951-1953 Graduate Apprentice for Joseph Lucas Ltd. Technical Sales Engineer 1953, Resident Aircraft Engineer, Lucas, Paris 1962-1966, Overseas A/C Engineer Lucas Airspace 1966-1972, Marketing Director, Lucas 1972-1979. When in the UK I played lots of cricket at good club level in Birmingham and since retiring have taken up Bridge. The best thing by far is to have married a girl I met at Leeds with a first brain, warmth, charm, understanding and outstanding generosity of mind and spirit that is so rare to meet, no wonder that she is a psychotherapist.

G
RICHARD  GELDARD
(1964-1972)
After leaving King James’s, I read Mathematics at the Queen’s College, Oxford, graduating in 1975 with a second class honours degree. I joined Price Waterhouse in Leeds to train as a chartered accountant and qualified in 1978. Immediately I moved into their tax department and spent the next five years dealing with corporate tax affairs of several large local listed groups. In 1983 I joined Ernst & Whinney (now Ernst & Young) in Leeds as a senior tax manager and have remained there ever since, continuing to specialize in corporate tax. I qualified as a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation in 1998, winning two prizes in the examinations including obtaining the highest total marks in the country. This success has led me to have substantial and continuing involvement with both the Institute and the Association of Taxation Technicians. I was a member of the Leeds branch committee from 1988 until about 2000 and filled all of the main roles including being chairman of two separate occasions. I was lead examiner for the Association ’s business tax paper for four years in the early 1990s. In 2001 I joined the national council of the Association and became Treasurer in 2002. I became Deputy President in 2005 and will become President from July 2007. I am also currently chairman of the Association ’s Technical committee. Outside of professional life my interests mainly revolve around trekking and music. I have trekked in the Himalayas on many occasions and the Andes twice. This has given me the opportunity to see some really spectacular scenery and explore some of the remoter parts of the world. Although not a technical climber, I have reached the summit of Mera Peak at 6476m – has any Old Almondburian been higher? I am a regular attendant at the classical music programmes in Leeds and Huddersfield. I also attend Proms concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and try to find interesting programmes when on holiday. The most linguistically challenging was listening to Boris Godunov in Prague, sung in Russian with Czech subtitles!

CARL STANLEY GOLDSMITH
(1947-1955)
Deputy head boy in 1955. University College London 1955-1958. Solicitor in London firms 1961-1989. Solicitor in Hong Kong firm 1989-1992. Married Margaret in 1958, her father was headmaster at Netherton school, 3 daughters and 8 grandchildren. Main interests and hobbies now are Times crossword, Golf, Bridge and I am a life member of MCC.

WILLIAM GEORGE GOODALL
(1928-1934)
On leaving school joined P.O Research Station at Dollis Hill, NW London. 1940-1946 served in RAF reaching rank of F/LT after serving through ranks. After war re-joined PO Research Station working on Submarine Cables and Underwater Amplifiers (Repeaters). Became Chartered Electrical Engineer working on 1st Transatlantic Telephone Cable and then Pacific Cable to New Zealand. Retired 1980.

H
IAN RICHARD HALES
(1966-1973)
Currently employed as a Personal Tax Manager by Auker Rhodes Ltd in Bradford. Still coaching cricket. Chairman of YCB Coaching sub-committee. Married to Helen, with two children born 1990 and 1991.

DAVID MALCOLM HALL
(1942-1950)
950)Malcolm attended Claremont Preparatory School in Dalton Green Lane, Huddersfield and Kirkheaton C of E School before following his older brother Kenneth to Almondbury Grammar School in September 1942. He was at Almondbury untilluly 1950, and was Head Boy ir his final year. He had fond memories of his time at the school, and made the effort to visit for the 400"‘ anniversary
celebrations in 2008.
He went up to St John's College, Cambridge in October 1950 and spent 4 very happy years there, reading Natural Sciences. He took his BA in 1953, and received his MA in 1958. After university he completed his National Service in the Royal Army Service Corps, sewing 2 years as a Chemicals Lab assistant in the Petroleum Laboratories.
His first job was at Cockle Park Experimental Station, Kings College, Newcastle, as a Graduate
Recorder.
in 1957, he moved to the Grassland Research institute at Hurley in Berkshire where he spent the rest of his working life, retiring in 1986. He worked in soil microbiology, plant physiology, plant chemistry, waste disposal, crop conservation, permanent pasture and soil physics.
He had many interests outside of work. He studied Russian for 5 years, and was a keen photographer and gardener. in his retirement he also took many classes to support his interest in Egyptology, and made a number of trips to Egypt to explore the antiquities. He also researched in depth the background to a handwritten diary of a French seaman from the Napoleonic wars — the diary was bought by his grandfather from the bookstalls along the Seine and had fascinated Malcolm since his childhood.
Malcolm married Angela in 1957, had 2 children. He died in 2011 at the age of 80.

JOHN KENNETH HALL
(1935-1942)
Kenneth achieved his School Certificate at Almondbury Grammar School in July 1940 in 9 subjects, and his Higher School Certificate in July 1942 in Chemistry (Distinction and Scholarship level), Physics (Scholarship level) and Pure/Applied Mathematics). He won the Dartmouth Medal in 1942. He kept a diary of a Scout trip to Switzerland in 1939, immediately before the outbreak of hostilities, with some references to the impending war.
He attended St John’s College Cambridge, taking his Natural Science Tripos Part 1, Class 2 in 1944 and receiving his BA in 1945. He was cox of the 1st Lady Margaret (St John’s College) Boat Club boat which came Head of the River in 1943. Excused conscription as a student, he served in the Home Guard in Cambridge from October 1942 to December 1944.
    From 1944 – 1947 Kenneth was employed by the Ministry of Labour and National Insurance. He resumed his studies to take his Natural Science Tripos Part 2, Class 3 and a degree of MA in 1948. He then joined ICI as a Chemical Engineer, initially in Manchester in the Research Department, followed by 3 years in Grangemouth (Scotland) before moving to Huddersfield. There he was initially in the Process Department becoming Assistant Superintendent of the Terylene Shed in 1951 for 4 years, followed by 2 years in the Work Study Department, finally becoming Superintendent of the Sulphonations Shed in the Napthalene Department.
On 21st June 1952 he married Betty Kathleen Wykes, employed as a wages clerk at ICI, whom he met through the ICI Sports and Social Club (particularly playing badminton). Kenneth was also a keen hockey player and took part in horticultural competitions organised by the Club. Two daughters were born in 1953 and 1955.
    In 1960 he took the opportunity offered of secondment to ICI (India) Ltd based at its head office in Calcutta (Kolkata), as a member initially of the Development Department and then the Technical Department, assisting with the construction of new plants in Rishra in West Bengal (rubber chemicals) and Bulsar, now Valsad, in Gujerat (dyestuffs). He became Assistant Technical Manager in 1963.
The family arrived at Bombay (Mumbai) by boat and travelled to Calcutta by train – later trips back to the UK were by plane. Kenneth, with his family, took full advantage of the opportunities of their new life to explore India (including Delhi, Kashmir, Darjeeling and Nepal) and Kenneth also travelled to Hong Kong, Malaysia, Myanmar and Egypt. His main interest was photography and he recorded these adventures both as slides and on cine film. He and Betty were also members of the Yorkshire Society (he was President one year), played tennis and assisted with amateur dramatic productions.
    Very sadly he died suddenly in Calcutta, after a short respiratory illness, on 29 October 1967 at the age of 42, leaving his wife to return to the UK where their daughters (then aged 14 and 12) were at boarding schools.

JOHN RICHARD HARDCASTLE
(1959-1962)
I left KJGS on my 16th birthday in October 1962 to go into banking with the National Provincial Bank. Subsequently left banking to join the Post Office, retired early from the Post Office in 2002. Spent about 3 years land surveying until I was finally put out to grass a couple of years ago. I was not really academic at school and led an insignificant time there. I doubt many will remember me, however I enjoyed every minute of my time at KJGS, having never been to Almondbury prior to my first day at the school, I was immediately impressed by the scenic setting and this stayed with me to this day. I occasionally represented the school at football but regularly turned out for ‘Sid’ Chapman’s cross-country teams and kept in touch occasionally with Sid for a few years. Through Sid Chapman ’s encouragement I continued running and followed Pete Livesey down to Longwood Harriers. King James ’s was a source of Athletics for the Harriers. Derek Ibbotson and Granville Beckett being two of the many who proceeded me. In the last 25 years I have trained many athletes from KJGS and as president of Longwood Harriers I would hope this source would continue. Although I only attended for 3 years and enjoyed life at the expense of study, those three years were in the most part really enjoyable.

TERENCE  HAWORTH
(1945-1950)
After various interesting studies, including National Service in the Royal Engineers, I was elected to membership of The Royal Institute of British Architects, later I gained a Diploma in town planning at Leeds Polytechnic. Along the way I married a lovely girl I met when walking. We have two sons, who due to changes in the educational system were unable to attend the ‘old school’. I rejoined the OAS in 1985 when my school friend, both infant and grammar, Fred Sheard organised a ‘forty years on’ at the annual dinner.

ROD GEORGE HINCHLIFFE
(1957-1962)
Son of George Hinchliffe (Chairman of OAS 1966). I am currently a retired accountant living with wife of 38 years Elaine, in Robin Hoods Bay. 1 son of 26 years, a graduate working in brand management. Previously worked in finance related positions within the profession, industry and Local Authority in the UK, Africa and Caribbean.  I enjoy keeping fit, jogging and walking the North York Moors, travelling and reading. An invitation to any Old Almondburian, particularly 1957-1962, to fresh coffee etc whenever in Robin Hoods Bay area.

ALAN  HINCHLIFFE
(1960-1964)
I left the school in November 1964 for Australia with just a Maths 'O' level to my name. Arriving ‘Down Under’ I worked in Sydney and Adelaide before signing as a regular soldier on my 17th birthday. My five years in the army included a tour of duty in South Vietnam with the Royal Australian Electrical and Mehanical Engineers 102 Field Workshop. I was back in Yorkshire by 1972 to kickstart my education and eventually gained my Certificate in Education at James Graham Teacher Training College in Leeds, where I met my wife Pauline Mullaney. Our three children Alexander, Thomasin and Eloise gained degrees in Microbiological Science, Law and Criminology respectively. Nowadays I live in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and continue my 30 plus year career in local government in Denbighshire, North Wales.

JOHN ANTHONY HIRST
(1957-1964)
Went into Management Services and computing (early 70’s) after degree. Worked for Famous Systime in Leeds though didn’t have a company Ferrari. Went on trade mission to China before it was ‘opened up’. They had never seen Westeners before. Fell ill eating real Chinese food on a freighter in the South China Sea and was cured with mysterious Chinese medicines. Then went into consultancy, including artificial intelligence work. Ended up as special advisor to central government. Now retired except for being a warden for National Trust.

DAVID M. HIRST
(1949-1957)
On leaving school I read chemistry at Oxford and stayed on to do research for a D. Phil.  My tutor and research supervisor overlapped with Harry Taylor at St John’s College, Oxford where they both played cricket.  After Oxford I spent a year and a half in the Chemistry Department at Harvard.  While in the US I met Judy and we were married in Boston in July 1965. I took up an Assistant Lectureship in chemistry at Warwick University when it opened in October, 1965, and retired as Emeritus Reader in 2003.  As well as teaching in my own area of expertise in physical and theoretical chemistry, I taught maths for chemists and also computer skills.  In addition to being active in research in computational chemistry, I published three books:  Mathematics for Chemists, Potential Energy Surfaces, and A Computational Approach to Chemistry. Judy and I have lived in Leamington Spa since 1970.  We have three sons and five grandchildren.  We are very keen gardeners and have opened our garden for the National Gardens Scheme for charity.  We are very active in the local branch of the University of the Third Age.  Other interests include listening to orchestral and chamber music, reading and pottering around the countryside.

ANDREW KENYON HIRST
(1938-1943)
A career of forty three years in Nat West ended in December 1986 as regional director for London, following wide ranging roles including an enjoyable spell in Sheffield. Several years were spent hidden in head office. Retirement has been varied, living in Warwickshire with active participation in activities in the local village. Eyesight started to decline some eight years ago, which was followed by my move to a smaller property in Henley-in-Arden and the sad death of my dear wife two years ago.

ANTHONY HORSFALL
(1955-1963)
After A Levels I took a PE course at St. Paul’s, Cheltenham 1963-1966. Teaching in Hertfordshire 1966-1992 at various schools 1992-present in Buckinghamshire, variety of posts, retiring last year from Assistant Head Teacher role and Head of Sixth Form. Married to Linda for 38 years, 3 children, Stephen, Amy and Lucy. Both girls have got married this year. In football, played, coached and managed at semi-professional level in S.E. of England until knees gave out. Have a season ticket at Aston Villa.

ANDREW  HUDSON
(1998-2003)
Since leaving KJS, I attended Greenhead College gaining A-Levels in Psychology, Modern History, PE & General Studies. I am currently employed by Wheawill & Sudworth Chartered Accountants and am working towards my Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification.

A.  HULL
(1946-1949)
After qualifying worked locally for the West Riding County Architects and Kirklees Architects. Now retired chartered architect. Married. Two daughters, five grandchildren. Have attended several re-unions of year 44.

J
JOHN DAVID JENKINSON
(1952-1957)
Joined Lloyds Bank in Milnsbridge in 1957, subsequently moved to Leeds for a management position, subsequently managed branches in Leeds, Sunderland and Carlisle and retired in 1997 as Group Manager, Durham. Married since 1964, daughter Sara is now married with 3 children and living in Aberdeen. Pass the time with golf, gardening, allotment, fell walking and foreign holidays.
JOE  JOHNSEY
(2002-2007)
I am now studying A Levels at Greenhead College and attending a F.A. level at the Galpharm Stadium. I have a weekend job at the Beaumont Arms.

K
KEN  KAYE
(1939-1946)
Born in Farnley Tyas 29/02/28, product of the ‘The Gaffer’ Taylor Dyson and Co. Great Days. I remember Austin Holroyd (Siddon I believe?), just my senior. Derek Ibbotson, a little later than me. Ex RAF, wireless fitter (conscript). A complete change of career took me to Sheffield University, graduated in 1957 (MBChB). Married a local girl from Thurstonland in 1956. Rest of my life has been spent in South Yorkshire as a GP. Hopefully will reach 80 years next February, as a widower, in the company of two sons and six grandchildren. My greatest school friend, Dr. GW Sykes sadly passed away last year, after 40 years working in Canada.
JOHN GRAHAM LAWTON
(1970-1977)
After leaving school, I started work as a wages clerk at Hanson Haulage on Leeds Road, Huddersfield. After 1 year of wages, accounts and dipping the diesel tanks – no fancy fuel gauges here, I left for Kirklees MC as a wages clerk. At this time I was studying Cost & Management Accountancy, but it was not for me. So a lucky break occurred and I was offered a job working in IT. After starting as a junior programmer, I have risen through the ranks to become Production Manager. My role now is non technical, but developing IT strategies and being an active member of the IT management team.

L
COLIN F LAWTON
(1937-1944)
Queen Mary College, London University to gain degree in Civil Engineering 1944-1946. 1st year evacuated to Cambridge, Kings College, second year in London. Joined Royal Engineers 1946, commissioned 1947, served in three railway units in Germany until 1948. Glasgow University from 1948-1949, still civil engineering. Joined family business Fred Lawton & Son Ltd late 1949, spinning woollen yarn. Married Jo in 1950. Studied wool textiles at Huddersfield Technical College part-time to gain AT1 in 1951. Became Managing Director of Fred Lawton ’s in 1954, Chairman in 1985. Moved three factories to Meltham Mills before retiring in 1991. Spent most of retired years restoring and renovating a country property in S.W. France where we now spend 5/6 months per year, otherwise based in Ilkley. Two of our four children now live in Australia and so have spent some winter months there for the last 14 years.

HENRY  LAYCOCK
(1953-1960)
Having gained a scholarship to the University of Oxford, I chose to study Philosophy, first as part of the Philosophy, Politics and Economics degree programme, and subsequently in the Philosophy, Psychology and Physiology Programme. I was then fortunate enough to take a position as Lecturer in Philosophy at Queen's University in Canada. Since that time I have been a Visting Fellow at Clare Hall in the University of Cambridge, and a Visting Professor at the University of Padua in Italy. My area of specialisation includes the fields of semantics and metaphysics, in which I have a number of major publications. In 2006 I published Words without Objects with the Clarendon Press of Oxford University. The book attempts to advance our understanding of the difficult and theoretically important category of matter.The education I received at King James's, particularly in physics and mathematics, was invaluable for my future career.

MICHAEL ANTHONY LEE
(1971-1978)
Married for almost 20 years I have two sons and a very patient wife. I have worked in scientific sales for 24 years and am also a humour author of three books. Written In Jest (forward by Michael Palin), Wanted: One Freudian Slip, Nothing To Complain About. I live in Huddersfield and spend any spare time outside of work and family running, writing and gardening. When the occasion presents itself I provide after dinner and motivational talks. I play the guitar very, very badly and am now bald!

GEOFFREY  LEES
(1940-1945)
Articled clerk with Stanley Carr (Chartered Accountants) 1945 to 1950. Qualified as a chartered accountant May 1951. National service in RAF 1951-1953. Commenced employment as chief clerk with Smith Craven, Doncaster 1953, admitted to Partnership 1st January 1962, became senior partner 6th April 1971. Retired as partner both September 1989 and continued as consultant until December 1994. Married Elizabeth Kipling 9th June 1956, celebrated Golden wedding 9th June 2006. Three daughters, three grandsons and one granddaughter. Joined OAS on reformation after the war and will try to get to the 400th celebrations.

M
KENNETH  MASSEY
(1957-1964)
Having attempted, non too successfully, to burn down Jack Taylor’s new Biology laboratory, a career in the petroleum industry seemed appropriate. I spent 35 years with BP, primarily working for various downstream international marketing businesses. This took me all over the world including postings to Hong Kong, New York, Hamburg, Singapore and Houston. My long suffering wife, Elaine (of Greenhead) accompanied me and managed to bring up our two boys during this time. They are now 28 and 26, both gainfully employed. I retired 6 years ago and enjoy gardening and golf.
JEREMY  MEAL
(1969-1976)
I am now Director Smart Card and Ticketing Strategies for MVA Consultancy (www.mva-group.com) and continuing to pursue my transport interests for which I was known at school. I have just helped Department for Transport conclude tests that should allow smart cards for National Concessions to be rolled out to 9 million eligible over 60 and disabled persons by Spring 2008 by local authorities. I married Ruth in 1983 and daughter Susie graduated in Music at Salford last summer and son Richard has just started at Bristol studying Computer Science.

MALCOLM HALMA MITTON
(1940-1945)
In 1945, after leaving school I attended the Huddersfield School of Architecture for three years before serving my National Service with the Royal Engineers as an architectural draughtsman, following which I was employed by the Huddersfield Education Architect. In 1953 I married Dorothy Shaw and in 1957, we emigrated with our daughter to Canada, where I worked for numerous architectural companies in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I became a property manager with the Bank of Nova Scotia in N.S and Toronto, Ontario for some 13 years. In due course I obtained a similar position with the federal government until retirement in 1990. In addition to the above I had a mini career in music, singing 2nd tenor with the Shantymen and other groups on the CBC. My singing career started at the age of 7 at Moldgreen Parish Church, eventually becoming a tenor in Woodhouse Parish Church. Eventually I became the tenor soloist at two churches in Halifax, N.S. Unfortunately I attended school during the war years when the G & S shows were suspended! I now reside some 15 miles outside Halifax N.S and have four children (2 of each), 9 grandsons, 1 grand-daughter and 2 great-grandchildren (1 of each).

ICHAEL ADRIAN MORRIS
(1945-1950)
Joined Midland Bank Ltd, Holmfirth Branch September 1950 for two years. October 1952, National Service, firstly with Duke of Wellingtons Regiment, Halifax, then early 1953 the parachute Regiment at Aldershot. In October 1954 returned to Midland Bank and served in a number of branches in the Huddersfield area. Then second officer at Oakhans, Accountant & Assistant Manager at Rugby, finally at Kingsthorpe, Northampton. Took early voluntary retirement in January 1988. Qualifications – Associate Chartered Institute of Bankers, Member Chartered Managers Institute.

N
PAUL HOLDSWORTH NICHOLSON
(1933-1938)
After school in 1938, worked in management at Jarmains wool mill at Kirkheaton until early retirement in 1980.  (Jarmains was founded in 1873 by the son of George Jarmain, sometime Chemistry teacher at AGS in the 1850/60s). Served in the RAF, ground staff (radio) from 1941-1946, never leaving England! Also known, by subsequent scholars at AGS as Harvey Nicholson ’s elder brother, Dartmouth Medal and Jessop Prize 1944, etc.

O
DAVID OXLEY
(1943-1950)
On leaving AGS I had to do my National Service and having been in the ATC at School for 5 years I opted for the RAF and after initial training I was posted to Germany - British Air Forces of Occuipation in early 1951 as a Clerk Equipment Accounting with 402 Air Stores Park at RAF Altona in Hamburg. It was here that my sense of call to the ministry of the Congregational Church developed and I was demobbed six week early to be able to start  my Arts course at Manchester University. Graduated B.A.(Theol) in 1955 and after a further 2 years at Lancashire Independent College I was ordained at Leigh Congregational Church in 1957. Married the same year to Myrtle Smith from Nottingham. Anticipated that I would spend my ministry in Lancashire or Yorkshire in working class areas but at the end of 1960 I was invited to come to a Congregational Church in Hobart, Tasmania and have now lived in Australia for the last 50 years, serving first the Congregational Churches and then the Uniting Church in Australia when Methodist, Congregational and Presbyterian churches united in 1977. I have had a very varied ministry. As well as Parish work I have also had a period of full time church administration and a period of 5 years responsible for the church's welfare programmes, and add to that 6 years with the RAF Specialist Reserve as an Air Force Padre. I have been President of the Congregational Churches and Moderator of the Uniting Church. My wife Myrtle died of cancer in 1994 the same year that I took an early retirement. I have been the Chaplain for the RAAF Association in Western Australia for the last 18 years. I remarried and my wife Eileen and I live on a retirement estate established by the RAAFA in lovely Mandurah 50 miles south of Perth. It's been good to get back on three occasions for the Annual Dinner but I am so glad for the life and opportunity Australia has given me. I have lived in 4 States of Australia and I wouldn't have changed anything. Hope to be back in Huddersfield for my 80th birthday next year.

P
JANET  PAMMENT
(1976-1979)
After the disappointment of discovering I was 2" too short to join the Police, I kicked about doing various mundane Admin Jobs as my Careers Officer had strongly hinted that I was a girl and I could type! 1 x marriage, 2 x sons
(Tom 19 and Alex 17) and 1 x divorce later, I'm now working as Careers/Connexions PA seconded to the Huddersfield Youth Offending Team. I moved from Lepton in 1984 and still live in Holmfirth. Still close with Dawn Hepplestone and after 31 years of friendship we had our first holiday together this year. Not entirely sure Portuguese got our humour though!

BOB  PARTRIDGE
(1964-1967)
I left the school in '67 due to a family move to Gloucestershire and after GCE/A Levels at Chipping Sodbury Grammar went to the Gloucestershire College of Art & Design, Cheltenham to study Fine Art. I then followed my idealist inclination and joined the Art Teachers Diploma at Leicester Polytechnic and onto a career in Teaching. I have taught in schools in Oxfordshire and Kent (Judd School Tonbridge) and then to FE College in Sheffield for 10 years before joining Bishop Grosseteste University College as Head of Art in 1995. This coincided with my completing an MA Fine Art. I worked with some great colleagues here in both art and education - and with an excellent Principal! However in 2006 I moved again this time to Huddersfield - the University - where I teach on the Contemporary Arts degree - oh yes and have started a Phd at Sheffield Hallam. My daughter Rachel is Head of Dance at a school in Leeds having studied at Bretton Hall, my son Jamie is at the Royal College of Art studying Fine Art, and my son Henry is at New College Worcester and in Year 10 - he has always wanted to be a paleontologist but has decided now it's zoology... I have now been teaching for 36 years and enjoy both teaching and studying and although at King James for a short time I have found that its resonances are inspirational!

MARTIN  PRIESTLEY
(1963-1971)
Slipping rather gracelessly into later middle age, even though still married to Jane. Still also making music, especially with violinist daughter number two. Elder daughter reading Biology at university.  In 33rd year of teaching.

R
NICOLA  RAMSDEN
(1977-1980)
Having left King James's School in 1980 I continued studying at Greenhead College for 1 year before beginning a career in retail locally; then since the birth of my 3 children from 1988-1994 I worked part time firstly in retail then in school catering & cleaning dept. In 1999 I returned to King James's School to work as catering assistant in the Dining Room then in early 2000 transferred my skills to the classroom as Teaching Assistant for special needs pupils for 6 years in total. I am pleased to say that at present I am still working at my former school, King James's but have recently switched my role and am now employed as reprographics & administration officer based in Dorm 4 above the Old Dining Hall. I truly enjoy my role especially as I am located in my former form room.
It's such a pleasure to still be a part of King James's and I can truly say I very much feel at home there and however long it has been since being a former pupil I often feel like I'm still a student ....... having to remind myself I no longer have to call my former form tutor (Mr O'Brien) Sir!

PAT  REID
(1975-1997)
I now live in Ilkley where I can regularly be found walking with my energetic Labrador on the moors. Since my retirement I have added the hobby of painting to my many other activities. In order to keep my mind active I embarked upon a MA course in Victorian Studies and completed it successfully this year. Currently I am doing some work on the school archives, hoping that they will be in good order for 2008. What memories as I look at photos or read through the detention book!

ANDY  RIGATE
(1984-1988)
I am married with two children. I have been working for the same company for 17 years! J.L.A. are the largest supplier of commercial laundry and laundrette equipment in the world. I has been in sales for over 10 years before becoming the company buyer. I enjoy hill walking, gardening and watching Huddersfield Town and Huddersfield RUFC.

TINA  ROBERTS
(1982-1986)
Since leaving the school in 1986, I married a fellow Old Almondburian in 1991. We have one daughter who started at King James ’s this year. For the last five years I have been working as a bus driver, which I really enjoy.

COLIN  ROBSON
(1946-1953)
After gaining a degree in physics at Manchester University in 1956, I trained as a teacher at King's College London. I then taught electronics in the RAF as an Education Officer at No 1 Radio School, RAF Locking in Somerset for three years. This was followed by teaching physics at Colfe's Grammar School in London for five years, ending up as head of science. For four of these years I studied for a degree in psychology in the evenings at Birkbeck College, University of London. On graduation I accepted a post as lecturer in Experimental Psychology at the college and lectured there for five further years while completing a doctorate.In 1971 I became the first Head of Education at the newly created Huddersfield Polytechnic with responsibility for the training of school teachers. Following the development of new courses in psychology and sociology I moved over to become in charge of a Behavioural Sciences Department. I was then appointed to a Readership with mainly research responsibilities and since the 1980s have directed a series of nationally funded research projects mainly in the field of special educational needs.I was appointed as one of the first Professors at the then Polytechnic and became Director of Postgraduate Programmes at Huddersfield University in 1990 and led a Masters Course in Social Research and Evaluation. I retired from my full-time post in 1995 and was honoured as an Emeritus Professor of the University in 2002.In semi-retirement I acted for ten years as chief consultant to a major international project on the education of children with disabilities, learning difficulties and social disadvantages under the auspices of the Centre for Research and Innovation of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development in Paris. This was followed by a consultancy with Eurostat, the statistical arm of the European Community on the same topic. I also continue an involvement in the supervision of research students and writing books on carrying out applied social research. My wife Pat and I celebrated our Golden Wedding anniversary some years ago. We have two children, five grandchildren and a great-grandson. While in Huddersfield we lived for over thirty happy years at Kirkroyd in St. Helen's Gate, built on the site of the chantry which was moved down the hill to form the original grammar school. We moved eleven years ago to Bath to down-size and be closer to family.

STUART W. ROEBUCK
(1950-1955)
My Life - Edited Version: 1930s Born; 1940s WWII & Junior School; 1950s AGS & Work; 1960s Marriage and parenthood; 1970s University & Ordination (Methodist); 1980s Boarding School Chaplain and Teaching; 1990s Boarding School Chaplain and Publishing; 2000s Grandparenthood and Retirement; 2010s To be arranged.

EDWARD  ROYLE
(1955-1962)
Student at University of Cambridge 1962-1968. Taught History at University of Cambridge 1968-1972. Taught History at University of York 1972-2004. Retired, now Professor of History, University of York.

DAVID  RUSHFORTH
(1944-1951)
After leaving school, did two years apprenticeship with Timothy White’s Taylor, then two years at Bradford and qualified as a pharmacist. Worked in Low Moor, Huddersfield before becoming area manager in Kent. After merger with Boots in 1968, managed shops in Gloucester and Bristol. Left Boots in 1984 to manage a Rest Home for our church in Stockport whilst ‘keeping my hand in’ by doing odd locum work around Southport. Retired in 1996 from rest home but carried on pharmacy work until 2006. Now completely retired!

S
PAUL STUART SELLENS
(1966-1973)
After leaving KJGS went to Cambridge to study natural sciences, captained cross country and ‘Blue’ in cross country and athletics. Married Shirley, who I met in 1971 on a school holiday to France organised by Pete & Liz Heywood, joint trip including KJGS and Holme Valley G.S. After moving to Doncaster to work for Yorkshire Water, took up orienteering and mountain marathons. Then an unsuccessful move to East Anglia and a life-changing decision to study medicine at Sheffield. Was captain of orienteering club and started skiing. Now a general practitioner in Haslingden, Lancashire. After several successful mountain marathons, partnered by brother Martin, had to give up running due to knee problems (does Jack Taylor remember having to carry me off the football pitch in 1973 with a locked knee??) Not wanting to concede to age and infirm, I still mountain bike, ski with a brace and am secretary of our local sub-aqua club. My two sons are 21 and 19, both play rugby union (backs) and Paul the eldest is a 3rd year medical student at Sheffield. Thanks to Ken Ireland, Dave Bush, Jack Taylor and ‘Bill’ Chapman for getting me into sport and Pete Heywood – I’m still happily married to Shirley.

JOHN PETER SENIOR
(1934-1939)
I am 84 and I live only a few hundred yards further from the school. And whilst I did not cycle from Hinchliffe Mill every day, I did walk from near the Waterloo end of Fleming House Lane. Whilst never achieving the kudos of writing an excellent history of Woodsome Hall I did become Britain ’s youngest municipal transport manager, before joining the 5500 employee Ribble company as Assistant General Manager in 1957. Then I gave up horizontal transport for vertical (as some wag put it when they began putting the adjective “reverend” before my name). My last parish was Heddon-on-the-Wall in the delightful country of Northumberland – but on retirement the attractions of Almondbury proved too much!

FRED SHAW
(1946-1954)
From school studied at Manchester University and graduated in Electrical Engineering 1957. Seconded to defence research work in lieu of military service until 1962. Worked in industrial automation at GEC and Thorn Electrical Industries until 1975. Involved in the Fire Protection Industry from 1975 based at the company Gent in Leicester. Managing Director for 6 years then Business Development Director for a group of associated companies worldwide until retirement from full time work in 1995. Continued involvement in British and European Trade Associations for a number of years. Still active as a trustee of the Fire Service Research and Training Trust. I am a fellow of the Institute of Engineering Technology, a Freeman of the Company of Firefighters and a Freeman of the City of London. In 1959 married Muriel, a Greenhead pupil who I met on the No. 30 trolleybus on the way to school. We have two children and three grandchildren. Retirement hobbies are canal boating and race horse ownership in partnerships with fellow old boy Ian Shaw.

BRIAN  SHEARD
(1944-1952)
1952 - 1955 RAF including 2 years '53 to '55 at RAF Habbaniya, Iraq. On return to "civvy street" worked for Ambassador Radio and Television, Brighouse; followed by a short stint with the BBC, a few years with L. B. Holliday & Co.and several years with Hopkinsons at their Birkby works. Got married in 1957 to Nita and we have two sons. After Hops I went to St. Johns College, York (part of Leeds University) and did a three year teacher training course. Taught at a couple of schools in Devon but in 1972 answering a call from Victoria, came to teach in Australia. Taught at three schools ending up as Senior Teacher. I taught till I was 72 and since retirement in1975 have been working on my golf handicap.

ABIGAIL  STAHELIN-HALL
(1991-1996)
After leaving KJS in 1996. I studied at Greenhead College. I then spent two years in the world of work before attending Roehampton University in Surrey, where I gained a degree in Humanities. I then spent some time travelling around the west coast of Canada and America, a beautiful and amazing part of the world. Then it was back to university, this time in Huddersfield to do my teacher training. I met my husband on a school trip and spent some time in his home country – Australia, when my training was complete. I now teach History at Colne Valley High School and married in May of last year.

JOHN ANTHONY SMITH
(1949-1957)
Nickname at school was Jaz. Graduated in Pharmacy at University of London. Joined University of Bradford, School of Pharmacy 1966 as Assistant Lecturer in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and retired in November 2005 as Senior Lecturer in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, almost 40 years of UoB. Three children, Carolyne, Andrew and James. Enjoy supporting Huddersfield Town AFC in spirit, watching cricket in summer, gardening, walking and travelling.

DAVID RICHARD STEAD
(1969-1974)
Left in 1974 and served an apprenticeship with British Gas, handing my notice in the day I passed my City & Guilds. Started as an insurance agent the next day where I remained for 22 years. Gained a few promotions along the way until along with over 2000 others was made redundant. During this 22 year period, I served as a Special Constable for 5 years, owned a newsagents shop in Almondbury for 6 years, created the largest introduction agency in the North of England and played drums semi-pro with various groups, supporting Shawaddy Waddy on numerous occasions, amongst others. Upon leaving financial services I started an interior landscaping business, importing tropical plants and supplying them to hotels and offices etc mainly in the South Yorkshire area. We have two fantastic children, Amanda who is studying Ceramics at Wolverhampton University and Robert who is at Greenhead College considering a career in Drama and Music  ...well drumming!!

DAVID  STEAD
(1960-1968)
I have just moved from my post at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital to become Medicines Procurement Specialist Pharmacist for the South West Strategic Health Authority. In these days of increasing NHS bureaucracy, I have discovered the pleasures of working in a team of 1 and working from home!! My son James is a professional musician, currently touring with the UK production of Godspell as well as running a 20 piece swing band and my daughter Caroline is at theatre school in Essex. My peers at KJGS will appreciate that they don ’t get their genes from me! My brother Richard (1972-1977) is now a Commander in the Royal Navy and is currently stationed at NATO somewhere in darkest Scandinavia.

MICHAEL  SYKES
(1946-1954)
There were four Sykes boys in my year (A.E., I.M., J.M. and R.I.) and I’m the J.M.! After leaving School I did National Service in the RAF for a couple of years before reading Forestry at Oxford, the result being a First Class honours degree and a few prizes after the 4-year course. Susan Pearson (Royds Hall) & I were married in 1960, three days before leaving for Canada where I had a one year Beaverbrook Fellowship at the University of New Brunswick. This resulted in a Master’s degree and then a job with the Ontario Government working on various forestry research projects. We stayed in Ontario for three years, after which we returned to the Forestry Dept in Oxford, with our small son, where I did research on tree physiology and Sue produced a daughter. After three years, a job offer at a Research Station in Grange-over-Sands (a town of which we had never heard) with the Natural Environment Research Council led us to the fringe of the Lake District, where our second son was born and where we have lived happily ever since. I was involved in ecological research and research management, travelling to many parts of the world, as well as singing in choirs, playing golf, gardening, walking, running a local charity, and enjoying life. Now thirteen years into retirement everything is much the same, except less work and less money.

ROGER IAN SYKES
(1946-1953)
For any friends from my schooldays who want a few lines of update since I retired:*I have been secretary of the local village hall for 7 years hard labour!*Wraxall and Failand Councillor for 8 years, Chairman for the last two.*Steam railway enthusiast, building locomotives, helping to maintain and run a passenger hauling railway, working two days a week plus Sunday Open Days in summer - anyone visiting Bristol will be guaranteed an enjoyable time, we take an average of 2000 passengers a day.­­­Such is the retired life of an ‘old engineer’, but it is rewarding to explain and demonstrate the power of steam propulsion to a very much younger generation.

T
DENIS  TAYLOR
(1956-1959)
I left school in 1959 following my family’s move to Halifax. I completed my education at the Crossley & Porter Boys’ Grammar School. Since then I have roamed around a good bit, including some years in the North of Scotland working in North Sea Oil. I returned to Halifax in 1980 and since then I have worked as a bus driver. I am now approaching retirement and have a host of memories to ‘keep me warm’. I do not think that my three years at King James’s Grammar School conferred any benefit on the school, although I remember the teachers and many school mates quite clearly. I don ’t suppose that anyone who remembers me will do so with much pleasure, none the less I regard my short time at the school as a privilege.

GORDON  TEAL
1936-1943)
1942-1945 – Leeds University (BSc Civil Engineering) 1946-1948 – Corps of Royal Engineers, commissioned service in 1. Waziristan (North West Frontier) attached Indian Army 2. Middle East Land Forces with construction unit in Eygpt (canal zone) or Cyrenaica (Libya) 1948 – Demobbed and engaged in construction of London airport. 1949 – Engineering assistant with Wakefield Corporation waterworks on construction of Baitings Dam. 1953 – Assistant Engineer, Manchester Corporation Waterworks on Construction of Bouland Forest Tunnel – Hawes Water Aqueduct Scheme 1958 – Chief Engineering Assistant to Consulting Engineers on construction of Selset Reservoir for Tees Valley Waterworks. 1960 – New works engineer, Leeds Corporation Waterworks. Resident engineer  Thruscross Dam. 1968 – Supply Engineer, Leeds Corporation. 1971 – Chief Engineering Assistant, Leeds Corporation 1974 – Contracts Engineer, Yorkshire Water 1983 – Retired. Married in 1949, 2 sons, 1 daughter. Member of Institution of Civil Engineers.

PETER  TRACEY
(1956-1963)
After 30 years teaching in the North East of England, I then moved to the Czech Republic to teach there for four years. Now back in Whitley Bay, spending retirement organising Northumberland Schools Football, helping a furniture charity, running several Rotary Club campaigns and playing golf.

U
DAVID  UTLEY
(1940-1945)
My wife and I returned to Weston-super-Mare in March 2006, where we have lived with our family for nearly 30 years. In 1992 we had returned to Almondbury and enjoyed re-visiting familiar places and discovering new ones. We also enjoyed the company of old friends and relatives. For various reasons we decided to move back to Weston and now live close to local amenities with easy access to places of interest and also about two hours to the Devon or Dorset coast. We miss our friends and relatives, Yorkshire, The village, I also miss watching live rugby league.

W
WILLIAM B VARLEY
(1935-1940)
In 1942 volunteered for Royal Engineers in the Army. In 1943 first convoy through the med to India to be with Indian troops, in Engineer Battalion with Sikh C.O. Landed in Bombay, by rail to Mhow in Punjab. Went into Burma – Ramree. Went into Indonesia, Java then back to Singapore. Back to England in Brittania to get BSc Tech at university. Specialised as Sewerage Engineer and moved around, eventually Assistant Chief Civil Engineer in Sheffield. Next to Severn Trent Water for two years. Took early retirement in 1980. Now aged 84 in 2007. Married in 1950, looking forward to 60 years in 2010.

MARK ANDREW WARING
(1977-1982)
After school studied Chemistry at Newcastle. After graduating with a PhD worked in Canterbury at UKC. Met my partner Rachel at UKC. Moved to Cardiff in 1990 to work in radioactive manufacturing, I am still there although we are now part of G.E. Healthcare. I played football and cricket until the legs gave up. Now concentrate on golf and hope to get to the Gothard Cup one day. Lucky enough to see Town at the Millenium Stadium along with Almondburians Ian Daffern and Chris Dennis.

JOHN GEOFFREY WATTS
(1948-1953)
I could not wait to leave school in September 1953 and rushed out into the world with my three GCEs but without an idea in my head as to what my future direction would be. In common with many of my contemporaries I became apprenticed as a fitter at William Whiteley in Swan Lane, Lockwood. At this firm I did all the things that apprentices did, swept floors, made tea, fetched and carried sandwiches, chips and cigarettes, occasionally fitting in a little fitter’s work. The princely wages that I earned at this job were not enough to keep me in any style at all and certainly not one to which I wanted to become accustomed. Following the advice of Ian Tunnicliffe I changed jobs and went to work at Washpit Mills in Holmfirth. Here I would learn a skill that in later life would enable me to recognise all the locations in Last of the Summer Wine and little else. Now a definite uplift in my life came when the Queen changed my life and invited me to join her Royal Air Force. First as a National Serviceman and later extending my service as a regular. During my time with the ‘mob’ I served in many stations in the UK, Aden, Germany, Cyprus and the Far East. Along the way I collected a wife, two sons and a daughter and we left the RAF in 1973 to live and work in Stockport for a firm of engineers. Unfortunately I was released for alternative employment in 1989 (made redundant) and became a Technical Author at Vickers Shipbuilding in Barrow-in-Furness. The work involved writing the instruction manuals and other technical documentation that are needed by crews and maintainers of the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet. One catchy title that comes to mind is  The Maceration, Compaction and Ejection of Submarine Garbage, certainly a must for anybody’s bookshelf. Anyway as I became more senior in the job the common business practice of holding interminable meetings at which much was discussed but little decided led me to accept a voluntary redundancy package in 1993 and retire on my laurels. So now I have come full circle. Out in the world without an idea in my head as to what my future direction will be. I currently keep an interest in local history and affairs having published books on Vickers Built Submarines and Barrow Pubs. I delve into Family History and to be honest I do not know how I used to find time to go to work. I find it curious that having disliked my time at Almondbury Grammar School so much I am eager to meet again my former fellow internees at the 400th Anniversary Dinner. Floreat Schola Almondburiensis to you all.

CHRIS  WEST
(1960-1966)
I spent 2 years working in an architects office in Huddersfield, whilst doing A levels at ‘Tech’. 1968-1973 Leicester School of Art & Architecture. 1974 Registered Architect. Married Sandra July 1971 who taught languages at KGS late 70 ’s early 80’s. We have two sons, Jonathan and Gregory. Worked in Leeds since 1978, now director, looking after the Leeds office of a national architectural practice, JM Architects. Lived in Slaithwaite for the last 30 years.

IAIN  WILSON
(1972-1977)
Leaving KJGS I started a son-follows-father apprenticeship at David Browns Gears Lockwood. Destiny was to provide an opportunity to continue engineering with the Royal Air Force where I served for 23 years within Engineering and Education Branches. During this time I married my best friend Edwina and we have nurtured a smashing son, Nathan, now 18. I met up with other Old Almondburians during my service, John Anderson (he was ‘A’; I was ‘Alpha’ at school) and Craig Bones who was at KJGS as it turned into a College and moved up into the middle school. I left The Royal Air Force to work as head of Learning and Development for a large food manufacturer in East Anglia leaving there in 2007. Since then and to date I work within my own Company - Cascade Learning & Development Ltd - running team and leadership development solutions throughout Great Britain.­

Y
RONALD COURTLEY YOUNG
(1939-1945)
1946-1947 Student Medical Laboratory Technician, Leeds Maternity Hospital
1947-1949 Medical Branch Royal Navy
1949-1952 Medical Laboratory Technician, Leeds Maternity Hospital
1952-1955 Chief Laboratory Technician, East African Medical Survey and Filarias B Research Unit, Mwanza, Tanganyika
1955-1968 Medical Representative, South Yorkshire
1968-1970 Export Manager Burroughs Wellcome based at Crewe
1970-1973 Marketing Manager Burroughs Wellcome (South Africa) based at Johannesburg
1973-1988 General Manager, Burroughs Wellcome (Indonesia)   President Director, P.T. Wellsome (Indonesia)
1988 to date  Retired and living in Norfolk