It’s difficult to know how to describe Gene Burgham, who died on 8th July. A “tour de force” goes some way to cover it. Whilst I remember her as the head’s PA during the 80s, that title hardly does justice to the role she played at the school. These days, the Crypt and all other schools have some form of Pastoral care within their governance structure. It’s probably fair to say that Gene played that role at the Crypt (as well as many others), before anyone realised schools actually needed it, in a way that would defy the demands and strictures of current times. For that reason, she is remembered fondly by thousands for former pupils and was also an honorary member of the Old Cryptian’s Club. Details of her funeral are below. If you can’t make it, but would like to watch (either live or ‘on-demand’) the service, please email admin@oldcryptians.org and we will pass on the request to her dauther Louise and share details. Simon S
We were informed of the sad passing of Kevin Cumming this week. Kevin was assistant head teacher at the Axe Valley academy in Devon, where he was a much loved and valued member of staff for the past 23 years, having initially joined as head of ICT.
Kevin is fondly remembered by his contemporary and recent OC’s President Steve Knibbs, as well as our current President Simon Smith.
It’s clear from the tributes on-line that he was a highly regarded member of staff, held in great affection by both the teaching body and students alike. For now, you can read those on the Axe Academy front-page here and on Facebook in the embedded link below.
We are delighted to let you know that our Annual Dinner will take place on Saturday 23rd March 2024 at the Crypt School. The price of the event will be £36.50 for members, £39.50 for non-members and £25.00 for current sixth formers/students/21 & under. There will also be a bar (cards or cash) for pre-dinner drinks and wine to accompany the meal. The dress code will be smart casual.
The guest speaker will be Rob Holliday (1970-77). Rob has had a varied career in aviation as an Airline Captain and Flight Safety Manager. He also found time to represent GB at rowing, winning medals in the World Championships.
Our AGM will also be held on the above date, details of which will follow in the coming month. The timings for the evening will be;
We are delighted to let you know that our Annual Dinner will take place on Saturday 25th March 2023 at the Crypt School. This will be our first full event since 2019, so we are really hoping to see as many Club members, partners, other former pupils and staff members as possible.
The price of the event will be £33 for members, £36 for non-members and £22.50 for under 21’s. There will also be a bar for drinks before and during the meal. The dress code will be smart casual, not least because many of the men probably can’t find their suits (or they need dry cleaning like most of mine!).
Our guest speaker will be Ian Dench (1975-82). Ian is an award-winning songwriter, having written hits for Beyoncé, All Saints, Shakira and Jamie Cullum, among many others. He’s probably best known for being the guitarist and principal songwriter for local band EMF, who’s debut single Unbelievable became one of the iconic hits of the 90s. Ian has also held several other roles within the music industry, both at home and overseas.
Our AGM will also be held on the above date, details of which will follow in the coming month. The timings for the evening will be;
6:15 pm AGM 6:45 pm Drinks 7:30 pm Annual Dinner
So why not use this as an opportunity to get together with friends, lost acquaintances and make new connections (but not in the Love Island sense!).
Any questions, please drop me a line at president@oldcryptians.org
The OCRFC are looking for any information, stories, photos, anecdotes, videos that people can provide regarding the building of the “new” clubhouse before it was extended on several occasions.
Our very own committee member Mike Beard was heavily involved in the original build, but as he says, in those days people didn’t take 100s of photos, they were more selective in what they were capturing so he doesn’t have a record of the project.
The rugby club will be looking at everything historical to see what can be used and displayed as they approach the 100th anniversary of Old Cryptians RFC.
Please contact Greg Barton gregbartonsmail@gmail.com with any memorabilia you may have, especially anything on hard copy which you can share but would like returned.
Dear Old Cryptians, I was debating with colleagues only three days ago on Friday last week when one can stop wishing people Happy New Year. I think it’s probably mid-January, so I’ve just enough time to wish you a Happy New Year!
There are two really important thing for this eNews – the OCC Annual Dinner and New Committee Members.
First, the Annual Dinner. We are shooting for Saturday 25th March at the school. Resurrecting things after the hiatus caused by the pandemic is not always easy. The momentum is lost and sometimes interest has waned. But I know from experience, getting back together with people is hugely important and can’t be replaced by technology, as wonderful as that is. For now, all I ask is that you save the date and also complete the shortest of forms ever made –https://forms.office.com/r/dJ5NG2uPsF . This will help us gauge interest in the event before we commit and risk club funds on a non-refundable deposit.
Secondly, the Committee. Our AGM will also take place at the end of March. We’re always interested in seeking new committee members, but particularly so at this time, when we need to seek the skills that will strengthen our future as a Club. You can find out more on our website here or contact me direct (president@oldcryptians.org).
