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News > Event News > Dinosaurs unite!

Dinosaurs unite!

The 'Dinosaur' Club luncheon was back in full swing on Thursday 28 September 2023 for the biennial meet-up of OPs who left school 50 years ago or more.
5 Oct 2023
Written by Rachel Dare
Event News

This was the sixth time the event had been held since its inception in 2011. A total of 27 guests including OPs, spouses and school staff attended the luncheon which was held once again at The Bridge Hotel near Wetherby.

Derek Bradley (39-49) who started school when the Second World War broke out was the most senior OP in attendance whilst the youngest was Paul Butcher (63-72) who was attending the event for the first time. Other first timers included: Malcolm Johnson (58-63), Brian Moore (49-55), Roy Flitton (56-66), Mike Brett (56-64), and John Bullock (62-67).

After lunch, the Headmaster, Toby Seth, gave an update on the school and spoke of the growing bursary provision the school is able to provide through its Shape the Future fundraising campaign thanks to the generous support of OPs and others in the Pocklington School community.

David Wood (47-54) followed with a few words of thanks to the venue for hosting and the OP & Development team, past and present, for keeping OPs informed and in touch with the school. He finished by inviting everyone in the room to raise a glass and give a ‘dinosaur roar’ of thanks to the organising team.

Afterwards, Paul Hutton (49-56) led an impromptu rendition of the Pocklington School rugby chant, 'alla walla tingle', before guests assembled for the traditional group photograph.

Toby Seth commented: “It was a pleasure and a privilege to spend some time with our more experienced OPs and hear their stories and reminiscences of their school days. It is always a fun and inspiring gathering; I enjoyed some fascinating conversations and, as ever, was moved by the very real feeling of support and warmth for our whole community. Thank you to all who attended.”

The date for the next Dinosaur Club luncheon will be in September 2025. OPs who left in 1975 or earlier will be eligible to attend, so look out for further details to be announced nearer the time!

 

 

 

 

Paul and Derek, the youngest and the oldest 'Dinosaurs'

Please click here to view OPs in attendance.

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