It was with a sense of trepidation that seasoned veterans of the Old Carolians Association summer barbecues looked forward to the occasion this year. For the past two years, we have been forced to abandon the Rose Garden for the more stark surroundings of the covered picnic area in the heart of the School.
Speaking personally, I much prefer the more naturalistic ambience of the Rose Garden, with the grassed area of the Franche Road rugby ground as my second choice. The Rose Garden has changed almost beyond recognition in the past few years, especially in the view of some of the ex-pupils from Kidderminster High School for Girls, who fondly remember, as sixth formers, the peaceful tranquillity and ordered neatness of the place. Today, it is sadly in need of a team of gardeners for a week to tidy everything up, as it must be one of the most welcoming places within any school in the county and a hidden asset. Despite the wilderness, there is still a large grassed area, surrounded by a circle of climbing roses, enclosing the cosy groups of tables and chairs. Every year, the rows of raspberries are a delight, but they have disappeared under brambles and long grass. This year, the rains had done their worst during the previous week, but the Saturday promised warmth and sunshine. An optimistic and gallant team of Old Carolians met during the morning, erected the marquee and set up the cooking area. Indeed, a most pleasant social evening was enjoyed by around fifty guests, despite their being sent home rather early by a heavy shower at 9 pm.
Circulating around old friends, I quickly took a straw poll of views on the huge debate of the day, scheduled for the 23rd, namely the EU Referendum. It was apparent that there was a three to one majority in favour of 'Remain', similar to the bookmakers' odds. No further comment is necessary, as politics is the last thing most people want to talk about on a social evening. Quickly moving on, I found lots of enthusiasm for the magnificent achievement of the England rugby team in beating the Australians that day 'down under'. A raffle raised almost £150, an excellent effort, and Ken Ryder, the President, rightly praised all those that had worked so hard to make the evening a success. These included chefs Peter Picken and Dave Laverty and their team; Committee Members and their wives for providing the delicious salads and puddings; publicity from David Slater and Tim Gulliver; and Colin Lloyd for the lovely music from one hundred orchestral strings, wafting in the air. There was no microphone for Ken, but in his very best stentorian Shakespearean voice, no one was in any doubt about the positivity of his amusing speech. We shall miss his leadership next year.
'Captain' Peter Vaughan, Entertainment Correspondent