The fellowship enjoyed by the Boys was strengthened further by the annual Ex-Members’ Reunions organised by Mr Hugh Allan and his committee. The old-Boys did not all remain in the local area and, every year, letters were sent to many countries around the world. In updating the list of Ex-Members this year, we were interested to see addresses in Canada, Australia, Bermuda and around Europe. Several former members, influenced by the Company’s example, are Ministers of the Church while many others are in the medical profession, the armed services, or serving the community in other ways. 

In the mid-1970’s, the Company’s old tradition of putting on shows was developed. “Café Noir” was an evening of food and cabaret in the large hall. Gradually, the emphasis switched from the food and hospitality to the actual show and by the 1980’s, the Company was putting on a full, scripted “comedy-drama” on the stage every two years. These “starred” every Boy in the Company and many hidden dramatic and musical talents were un-earthed. Having, by then, John Cammidge as Company Captain meant that these performances could be backed up by a professional standard of sound and lighting. Shows such as “Where Seagulls Dare”, “Dunces With Wolves”, “Sherwood Shenanigans” and “Chariots For Hire” raised thousands of pounds for blind or deaf children, the cot death trust, motor neurone research and many other deserving causes.

John Cammidge also arranged one of the most memorable Annual Inspections when, through his job at the BBC, he invited show-biz legend Rikki Fulton to be our Guest of Honour. The Boys and their parents had a great night and Rikki’s hilarious remarks at the end of the evening had everyone in hysterics.

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