The Mount was looking at its best, and despite a dire forecast, the weather was kind. We joined the school for the awards ceremony, and were impressed as usual by the great range and interest of the education offered by the school, and the achievements of the pupils. Jocelyn Bell Burnell gave out the awards.

 Diana and Jocelyn

The head girl told us of the many activities and interests of the upper school. We were impressed by the emphasis on social service as well as the usual academic, sporting and artistic achievements. Two Tregelles pupils then gave an amazing account of their year. In a performance equaling that of Morecambe and Wise, they told us of a year packed full of fun and activities. What talent!

We attended the ceremony when Cathy Killick cut a ribbon to open the splendid new College centre, which is spacious and attractive. It has carpeted studies with computer access at every desk, and a spacious balcony overlooking the garden. Above all, O envy, it has a large, bright common room with cooking facilities.

Cathy Killick, Elli Jefferson and Diana Gant on the balcony of the new College Centre.

After lunch in school we had the AGM, and heard more from the head girl and her deputies about their plans for the future and life at school. The only sad point is that so few OS have come forward to fill the vacancies on the Committee. We are grateful, however, to Diana Wainwright for offering to be Report Coordinator. If anyone feels they can help, in however small a way, we should be grateful. The work takes up very little time, but we shall be in real difficulty soon when members retire.

In the evening Christine Johnson had organized the usual delicious dinner at the Racecourse, when we heard the heads’ and President’s address. Another opportunity for us to chat and catch up on news.

Jocelyn and her year group.

Warmest thanks to The Mount, and especially to Diana Gant, for the generous hospitality we received.