1970s Reunion

Held at Varndean College on July 15th 2006

Clive Henly writes:

This was the first time Varndean College was the venue for a reunion, and about 150 OVs from the 1970s came to the party. For the event the Stainer Hall was transformed into a 1970s disco, with a licensed bar running down one side and a buffet down the other (provided by “Quality Catering”). Not only did we have local ale on draught, but Dan (“Bars By Design”) had also prepared three new cocktails for us (following a late-night tasting evening with Debbie and Sue!)

There was a large contingent from the Girls School, who were joined by former Girls School teachers Maggie Corbin and Delia Spink. Former Boys School teachers Derek Ashcroft and David Williams were also in attendance. OVA Council members John Alabone (who escorted his daughter) and Ken Brown (who escorted his beer glass) enjoyed a pint or three. Advantage was taken of the fine weather, and 30 years of news and gossip were exchanged in the quadrangles.

As the night drew in, the crowds came back into the hall and the tickets for the raffle were drawn, with about £150 being raised for IDEALS, the OVA President’s charity. The dancing then began, with live music provided by “The Cadillacs”, and Nev Tomlinson providing the disco. The spirits began to flow (with the help of a very generous donation behind the bar from one of our number), and soon everyone started to behave like the teenagers they once were. As the witching hour approached, Dan and his staff produced fluorescent tumblers (very much in keeping with the 1970s theme!), the spirits flowed faster and the dance floor filled up. By the time the licence ran out at one o’clock, all present had enjoyed a great evening together – no doubt there were many sore heads the following morning!

Many thanks to Alan Jenkins, Varndean College Principal, and his staff, for making it possible to hold this event at the College.

Photos by Clive Henly & Keith Campbell. Web pages by Keith Campbell.