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HAWKLEY REUNION Saturday 7th July 2001 You probably do not need to be reminded that the day is fast approaching when we shall be meeting again in the heart of Hampshire and hopefully, we will be many in number once more.
I have a few snippets of information to pass on. You will recall that I mentioned Ted Redsull, he would like you to know that Rowlands has an annual Fayre which he helps to organise, he will be coming to Hawkley to our 'do' and will be happy to discuss Rowlands with any of you. If you wish to speak to him before then, he can be reached on (023) 9245 1143. The Girls' School are holding two meetings, the first is a lunch at Kingston on Sunday the 3rd of June, the second is in Petersfield on Saturday the 13th of October, you are invited. If interested, contact
Ron Paskell would like to hear from any who lived in Mantua Street during the War or shortly after and any who went to Mantua Street School. The one thing I remember about that School was their football team which always managed to beat my School when we met on Wandsworth Common on Saturday mornings! The usual notice went into "Yours" but this year there was no harvest, I guess we have probably roped in most people by now. Once again I look forward very much to renewing old acquaintances, I hope for good weather.
Old boys reunited from around globe Saturday 7th July 2001 Three brothers who live thousands of miles apart were among old school pals who were reunited in an East Hampshire village hall on Saturday. Jack, Ted and Cliff Douthwaite were among the London schoolboys who were evacuated to Hawkley during the blitz. They are now in their 70’s, and Jack lives in Australia, Ted in Scotland and Cliff in Surrey. But the three were reunited at the annual gathering of the boys from Battersea Central School. Jack and another former Battersea pupil. Ron Wallace, both traveled from Australia for the occasion. "They were both coming to Britain for holidays, and they made sure their arrangements coincided with the reunion," said organiser Mr. Harry Withers. The brothers were among 50 former pupils who gathered to exchange reminiscences of life during the Second World War. Recalled Mr. Withers: "We arrived in Hawkley on September 1, 1939, which was a Friday, and war was declared the following Sunday. The boys who were at the school were evacuated along with some of their younger brothers and sisters. One third of the school was evacuated to Hawkley and two thirds to Rowlands Castle." The former Hawkley village school is now a private house, so the reunion is always held at the village hall. "We are all in our 70s now, but there is always a good turnout for the Reunion. Said Mr. Withers. "And we always have a stroll past the old school to make sure it is still there."
Old boys from Battersea Central School with their wives and Hawkley residents at their re-union at the Hawkley Inn, many are missing from this photograph, there was a wedding on at the Church and many were waiting for the bride to arrive. Second from the left, back row is the Rector and Vicar of Hawkley The Reverend David Heatley, he made it back to the wedding! And looked quite splendid in his full Anglican regalia.
HAWKLEY REUNION 2001 Once again a successful and happy gathering on a day when the weather kept dry and fine, we do seem to be fortunate in that direction. Likewise with our catering arrangements especially the afternoon tea which was provided by Margaret, Doris (despite having 'hopped the wag'); Jean ably assisted by the other Doris! Your well-practised generosity made it possible to cover the cost of food; Village Hall and you sent the ladies a bouquet each in appreciation of their efforts. This year I decided to experiment a little with a selection of photographs which were taken by Gwen and Dorice, the photo scroll is the result, I hope you find it interesting. You may notice Arthur Govus in a pose, seemingly exclaiming "Look what I have done!" he has been advised to consult his doctor because he appears to have a bladder problem! The group photograph above was that taken by the Petersfield Post photographer, I think it is the best one yet. We missed the company of Mr. Rowley Forbes and Charlie Sammonds both of whom were convalescing from recent operations. Several other stalwarts were unable to join us this year for various reasons, hopefully next year we shall see all of them again. The turnout was very satisfying and promises well for the next reunion, which you agreed, should be Saturday 6th July 2002. I look forward to seeing you all again on that day. My thanks for the telephone calls and letters of appreciation for the day and stating how much it was enjoyed. Without a doubt, its informality is most appealing and makes whatever effort is needed, very worthwhile. I take this opportunity to wish you and yours a very happy Christmas and hopefully a better New Year. Harry Withers, September 2001
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The
pattern of
the day
will be as
on the
previous
occasions
beginning
with food
and liquids
at the
Hawkley Inn
(why did
they change
its name?).
Drifting
out into
the beer
garden for
the
obligatory
photograph.
Tea will be
served in
the Village
Hall around
3.30 pm;
(left was
served and
fully
enjoyed -
thanks
ladies)
you will be
disappointed
to learn
that Doris
will not be
with us
this time,
she will be
on holiday,
but
Margaret
will be
organising
the
refreshments
provided
she arrives
back from Australia)
in time!
