31 May 2022
Made up of current and former parents, former staff and OAs, each of whom have committed to support Abingdon’s bursary programme for a minimum of 7 years, members of the newly established 110 Club were treated to a drinks reception and lunch in May. Hosted by Chair of Governors, Professor Mike Stevens (OA 1968) and Head, Mike Windsor, 110 Club members were also given a tour of the school by current boarders. Mike Windsor said: “There are so many talented and highly motivated young people within our society who would benefit from an Abingdon education but simply do not have the means to do so. Our bursary programme helps to provide that opportunity and couldn’t be done without the generous support of the 110 Club members to whom I am very grateful.
Among the guests, we were delighted to welcome back Patrick Sarsfield-Hall (OA 1955) with his wife, Pippa, and grandson James. This was Patrick’s first trip back to Abingdon for over 50 years and he arrived sporting an original Abingdon blazer! During his time at Abingdon, Patrick rowed successfully, taking part in the winning 1st and 2nd IVs at Marlow Regatta in 1953-55 (when Abingdon raced in IVs and not VIIIs). A keen gardener, he also remembered how he and a couple of friends were responsible for producing many of the fresh vegetables used in school meals from their plot in the Jekyll Garden. Patrick was also a prefect in School House and was thrilled to see his former bedroom, albeit somewhat more comfortable than in 1955! As an adult, Patrick served in the Royal Artillery (a career inspired by being introduced to the 25-pounder wartime artillery gun whilst in the CCF) before settling in Hampshire for a life in farming. He credits his good fortune to his Abingdon education and is passionate about supporting this opportunity for others through the bursary programme. To find out more about joining Patrick as a bursary supporter and the 110 Club click here.
