It was way back in 1951 that Cecil Pocock began his career at Clapham College, and after 32 years of dedicated service Cecil officially retired on the 22nd of July 1983 although I understand that he will be returning on a part time basis to teach law.

Unfortunately, news of Cecil's retirement was received just after the last edition of "CLAPPER" was released but we did subsequently notify members of our special reception and presentation evening which was held at the college on 2nd July. What an evening (and morning!!) we had with over 170 people present. It was marvellous to see so many 'old' faces once again, particularly those who travelled many miles to be there, including - Bernard Plummer from Huntingdon, Willy McGrath - Rochdale, Brian McDermott - Sheffield, Terry (3a.m.) Cain - Shropshire, Tony Morrish - Bedford, John Bunce and Mick Gowan, Woking and believe it or not especially for the evening Mick Turvey from the United States.

As previously mentioned, Cecil joined the College in 1951 and just 4 years later was appointed Head of the History Dept. - a position he held until 1970 when on the departure of the Brothers, Cecil became Headmaster. Since 1975 he has been the Deputy Head of the amalgamated Clapham College. Although I have covered Cecil's career in just fifty words, it would take several thousands to adequately describe the impact he has had on all the pupils attending the college since 1951; but perhaps it was during the days before becoming Headmaster and thus being much involved with administration rather than teaching, that Cecil's unlimited energy and enthusiasm were more evident.

I for one will always remember how Cecil made every History lesson so interesting and informative, and whilst the academic side was obviously of great importance Cecil did not just confine his time to this. In fact very little went on at the College where Cecil was not totally involved: as a football referee, cricket umpire and sports day official; on school visits including Paris at Easter, camping at Foxhunt and Mayfield; the school play, music productions and carol concerts; and as you know Cecil has always been a most loyal supporter of the Association, regularly attending our functions and the annual mass.

Coming back to the reception on the 2nd July we had pleasure in presenting Cecil with a collection of Royal Doulton crystal comprising sets of tumblers, sherry, wine and liqueur glasses and a decanter. The presentation followed speeches from Tony Morrish and Brian Saunders (reasonably formal) and with less formality 'Scotty' Macdonald and Colin Garvey - Colin's reference to the immortal OGY400 as "Man and machine in perfect harmony" and to Cecil considering Norman Tebbitt as being "dangerously left" were memorable. The speeches were followed by a short skirt from "Ernie" Larkin and friends indicating that Cecil was perhaps the most famous person in the world - Great stuff Ernie.

The evening for obvious reasons turned into the best reunion I can recall and perhaps will lead to similar get togethers in the future. As a result, we were able to increase our 'paying' membership and also obtain a number of 'lost' addresses. For the record, I would like to mention a few of the people not normally seen at an Old Boys' function:- John Boyd, John Bouchard, Kevin Barnaville, Aiden & John Coletta, Kevin Carroll, Lyne Carpenter, Dave Donnelly, Tom Duffy, John Freddi, Lorcan Farrelly, John Gilhooley, Tony Gray, Paul Gilmore Michael Gibbons, Peter Hughes, Mike Hodges (now home from the Far East), Douglas Hadida, Adrian Jordan, Ian Block, Brendan Kearns, Peter Keenan, Phil Leader, David Mellor, Ian Munt, Dennis Myers, Peter McDermottt (now home from Kenya), Mick Meade, Alec Morrish, Brian Muldoon, Anthony Maloney, Fr. Eric Mead, John Noulton, Kevin Payne, Paul Pozoni, Nicholas Frotts, John & Ralph Przednowek, Phil Roderick-Jones, Mark Roszkowwski, Tan Randolph, Bon Schwenk, John Tee, Peter Wills, John Walsh and Kevin Williamson.

Finally, a note of thanks to all who wrote or contacted me to express regret that for various reasons they unable to attend and I can confirm that your good wishes were passed to Cecil on the night. Also, thanks to Alan Webber, Mick Power and all the girls for their hard work behind the bar (about S hours) and especially to Colin Garvey who co-ordinated the evening.

On behalf of the Association, I wish Cecil a Long and Happy Retirement with our sincere thanks for the friendship and help so warmly given these past 32 years.

Mick Powell (Chairman)