David John Richardson (46-53) attended Pocklington School from 1946 to 1953, where he embraced school life with enthusiasm. He captained the Colts Cricket Team, played in the 1st XI, represented the 2nd XV at rugby, and was a regular fives player. He always spoke of his school days with affection, often remarking with a wry smile that any discipline he received was well deserved!

After leaving school, David served in the Fleet Air Arm as an anti‑submarine pilot on HMS Ark Royal. On returning to civilian life, he entered the insurance sector where he remained for his working life.

In 1960, he married Anne and they shared 63 years together until her death. Their retirement included many memorable cruises and happy times spent with friends and family. They had one son, David, born in 1965.

Aside from travel and family life, sport remained a lifelong interest. David played cricket, golf, bowls, and bridge to a good standard, taking pride in contributing to the sporting communities he loved. He was a full member of the Association of Cricket Umpires & Scorers, a longstanding member of Wetherby Golf Club, and served Wetherby Bridge Club as Vice‑Chair and Fixture Secretary. For many years he umpired OP cricket, later stepping back to devote more time to bowls. He was also the founder of the biennial Dinosaur Club luncheon, an event which began in 2011 and with the support of the OP office has become a popular social occasion for OPs who left school 50 years ago or more.

David often reflected that he had been a lucky man, as he was able to follow his own path for much of the time. He died peacefully on 15 April 2026 aged 89.

(David Richardson)